Norwegian Startup in subsea robotics

Overview

Kongsberg Ferrotech is a pioneering Norwegian robotics startup in the subsea industry, specializing in underwater robotics for inspection, maintenance, and repair of subsea infrastructure. Founded by entrepreneur Luis de la Torre in collaboration with Kongsberg Innovation, the company is based in Norway and has successfully secured significant funding, including a recent $14 million investment from NATO’s Innovation Fund and Norway’s state-owned Investinor. Kongsberg Ferrotech aims to innovate subsea operations, providing alternatives to traditional methods that rely heavily on expensive and risky human intervention.

Recent Developments

  • July 2025: NATO announced an investment in Kongsberg Ferrotech to scale up their subsea robotics operations. The investment stems from a strategic need to protect NATO’s significant underwater infrastructure and showcases trust in the startup's cutting-edge technology for maintaining subsea integrity without human divers.
  • July 2025: Kongsberg Ferrotech completed a project with Equinor, Shell, and SINTEF focusing on metal-to-metal 3D printing at depth, demonstrating the versatility and capability of their robots in extreme conditions.
  • April 2025: The company initiated partnerships to expand its autonomous robotic systems for subsea infrastructure maintenance, setting a new benchmark in operational safety and cost-effectiveness by reducing the need for dry-docking and diver-based interventions.
  • January 2025: A notable achievement was the collaboration announcement with Norwegian industry and research institutions to further enhance subsea 3D printing technologies and Arctic deployment strategies.

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding Date2022
HeadquartersNorway
FoundersLuis de la Torre and Kongsberg Innovation
RevenueNot publicly disclosed
ProfitsNot publicly disclosed
Key InvestorsNATO Innovation Fund, Investinor
IndustryRobotics, Subsea Technology
Number of EmployeesNot publicly disclosed

Early History

Kongsberg Ferrotech was established as an ambitious venture to revolutionize the subsea sector by introducing advanced robotics that could perform inspection and reparative tasks without human intervention. The company emerged from a collaboration between its founders and Kongsberg Innovation, a key stakeholder and early-stage partner, benefiting from Norway’s rich tradition in maritime activities and technological advances. Initially focusing on R&D, the company invested heavily in developing prototype systems capable of operating autonomously and effectively under challenging conditions. Their robots were designed to create 'dry habitats' underwater, allowing maintenance and repairs to be conducted without the typical disruptions associated with traditional methods.

Company Profile and Achievements

Kongsberg Ferrotech’s business model centers around leveraging robotic automation to address critical challenges in subsea maintenance. The company's technology allows for real-time, autonomous inspections and repairs, minimizing environmental risks, enhancing safety, and cutting operational costs. Significant milestones include:

  • 2023: Successful deployment of their robotic systems for real-time pipeline inspection and maintenance.
  • 2024: Collaboration with leading energy companies to develop subsea metal-to-metal 3D printing capabilities.
  • 2025: Rightfully secured investment from the NATO Innovation Fund, marking it as a key player in the defense sector's strategic operations.
  • Expansion into sustainable operations, playing a crucial role in extending the operational life of existing subsea infrastructure in environmentally sensitive areas.
  • Development of unique robotic systems capable of complex tasks traditionally performed by humans, such as metal 3D printing and in-depth structural repairs.

Current Operations and Market Position

Operating at the intersection of robotics and subsea technology, Kongsberg Ferrotech is recognized for its innovative approach to underwater maintenance. The company's robotic systems significantly lower the risk, cost, and environmental impact of traditional methods. As of 2025, Kongsberg Ferrotech holds a formidable position within the European and international markets owing to its strategic partnerships and demonstrated reliability of its technological solutions. Their robotics offer a scalable solution to inspect vast underwater infrastructures while maintaining minimal intervention risks—a marked advantage over competitors heavily reliant on human resources and traditional methods.

Conclusion

Kongsberg Ferrotech stands at the forefront of the subsea robotics industry, fueled by strategic investments and partnerships. Their innovative approach to underwater infrastructure maintenance represents a significant leap in terms of safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. With continued advancements and governmental endorsements, the company is poised to further establish itself as a leader in subsea robotics technology. The future trajectory of Kongsberg Ferrotech is remarkably promising, potentially influencing industry standards globally with its state-of-the-art robotics systems.

References

  1. World Oil News
  2. Arctic Startup
  3. Bloomberg
  4. Offshore Technology
  5. Undercurrent News
  6. Energy Connects
  7. Maritime Robotics
  8. Kraken Robotics
  9. Science Business
  10. Eelume Robotics