The move marks a major step in SYOS's evolution toward becoming a full-spectrum uncrewed systems provider. The company said the deal will accelerate development of autonomous subsurface technologies and expand its innovation and production pipeline for both defense and civilian applications.
"This acquisition strengthens SYOS's position as a multi-domain robotics company serving both defence and civilian markets," said Sam Vye, CEO and founder of SYOS. "Subsurface capability is the next frontier and this deal brings us closer to delivering the full spectrum of uncrewed operations: in the air, on land, at sea, and now below it."
Founded four years ago in Mount Manganui, New Zealand, SYOS established its European engineering and production base in Fareham, UK, in 2024. The site can currently produce up to 40 uncrewed surface vessels per month and will be expanded to include underwater drone manufacturing for European markets.
In April, SYOS announced a GBP 30 million defense contract with the UK government, underscoring its growing role in autonomous systems for national and allied security.
Governments and commercial operators are increasingly deploying uncrewed underwater vehicles to monitor and secure energy pipelines, telecommunications cables, and other seabed infrastructure against damage or sabotage.
"Remote and rapid seafloor and subsurface inspection and monitoring is vital in today's geopolitical environment where there's increasing risk to critical infrastructure," Vye said. "The applications for SYOS air, land, sea and now underwater vehicles are endless, ranging from disaster response to offshore inspections to delivering supplies to ships."
Bay Dynamics' vehicles are designed for operations ranging from underwater inspection to complex construction and repair work. They are used in sectors including oil and gas, inshore energy, and civil engineering, and perform reliably under extreme conditions such as strong currents or polar temperatures.
Matt Mooney, founding director of Bay Dynamics, said the company's subsea technologies perfectly complement SYOS's platforms and future roadmap.
"The drive to constantly develop and improve uncrewed systems at both companies means it's a great partnership moving forward on the world stage," Mooney said. "We have a range of underwater vehicles capable of both tethered control or unplugged autonomous operation, including long-range units for specialized missions. Everything is designed and built to bring cost-effectiveness and ruggedness to markets that were demanding it but not getting it elsewhere."
Vye emphasized that uncrewed platforms offer both safety and efficiency advantages. "We want to remove a pilot or operator from any dull, dirty, or dangerous situation - to reduce risk and reduce cost - whether in national security or civil operations," he said. "The cost of uncrewed vehicles can be much lower than traditional crewed vehicles, both in terms of purchase and operating costs. Robotics unlocks much greater capabilities with AI, computer vision and swarming capabilities. This is a capability step change."
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