The Ocean Autonomy Cluster has secured renewed participation in the prestigious Norwegian Innovation Clusters (NIC) program. The recognition provides a strong boost for the cluster to scale up and strengthen a national and international ecosystem for maritime autonomy and advanced ocean technologies.

The cluster brings together leading companies and research institutions both in Norway and internationally to develop innovative autonomous solutions for operations under, on, and above the sea surface. Renewed NIC status allows the cluster to expand its activities, develop new services, and increase its global reach.

– “This is excellent news for us, as it enables us to scale up much of what we have built over several years. We also gain the opportunity to develop new services, including increased focus on internationalization and export,” says Frode Halvorsen, cluster manager of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster.

Frode Halvorsen, manager of Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri

Strengthening collaboration and innovation

Managed by Fremtidens Industri (FI), the Ocean Autonomy Cluster works closely with other leading clusters on multiple projects. NORDSEC (Nordic Defence and Security Cluster) has also been accepted into the NIC program for the first time.

The collaboration with NORDSEC combines expertise in maritime autonomy with advanced defence and security technologies and strengthens both clusters’ ability to support companies in developing cutting-edge solutions and accessing national and international markets.

– “This is a milestone for the companies, for us, for the region, and for the whole of Norway. The renewed NIC status for the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, together with NORDSEC’s first-time participation, represents an important step in advancing Norwegian security technology and maritime autonomy,” says Bjørn Damhaug, CEO of Fremtidens Industri, which manages both clusters.

Bjørn Damhaug, CEO Fremtidens Industri. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset

“The clusters contribute to innovation collaboration and expertise that Norway and Norwegian industry depend on. They create unique arenas for cooperation that build trust between companies, academia, R&D, and investors. We need strong industry clusters to ensure future competitiveness in a world of major geopolitical shifts, high energy costs, and increased global competition,” says Minister of Trade and Industry Cecilie Myrseth (Labour Party).

Minister of Trade and Industry Cecilie Myrseth visiting Maritime Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri

Supporting growth through NIC

Over the next three years, the Ocean Autonomy Cluster will receive strategic support from the NIC program, coordinated by Fremtidens Industri, to accelerate innovation, expand international partnerships, and strengthen its members’ competitiveness in global markets. The cluster fosters collaboration between industry, research, and public stakeholders, helping companies develop cutting-edge technology, build value chains, and position themselves for success both in Norway and internationally.