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Nauticus Robotics’ Hydronaut is a net-zero transport option that can operate with or without a crew. | Source: Nauticus Robotics

Nauticus Robotics, a developer of autonomous vehicles and robots for data collection and intervention services for offshore industries, has announced an agreement to acquire 3D at Depth, Inc. Nauticus is acquiring the company for approximately $34 million in stock, before certain purchase price adjustments and assumption of debt. 

3D at Depth is a leader in commercial subsea laser LiDAR inspection and data services. Founded in 2009, the company’s technology allows customers to map, monitor, and evaluate assets, providing benefits through increased project efficiencies, reduced operational costs, and total asset and environmental awareness. 

Under the terms and subject to the conditions of the acquisition agreement, 3D stockholders will receive 9.9326 shares of Nauticus common stock for each share of 3D common stock equivalent they own. The company will also assume $4.1 million of debt in the transaction. The companies expect the transaction to close during the fourth quarter of 2023. Upon closing, 3D will operate as a division of Nauticus. 

“The future of subsea services lies in autonomy, data gathering, and analytics,” Nicolaus Radford, Nauticus’ Founder and CEO, said. “LiDAR has long since been core to terrestrial autonomy and by adding 3D’s capabilities to the Nauticus Fleet, we enhance autonomous vehicles in the offshore market. This acquisition increases the value of Nauticus’ fleet services and positions the Company to capitalize on data acquisition and analytics for subsea operations.”

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The strategic acquisition enhances Nauticus’ full spectrum of autonomous underwater maritime capabilities, including integrated sensor systems and data collection and analysis. It also expands Nauticus’ market reach and increases the value and utilization of Nauticus’ fleet assets. 

Some of the strategic and financial benefits of the deal for the company include accelerated commercial market penetration, a broadened IP portfolio, an expanded target market, established operational expertise, and accretive to-per-share metrics. 

“In addition to the compelling strategic and financial benefits of this deal, the acquisition will add momentum to our commercial growth trajectory,” Radford said. “By adding 3D’s technology, offshore inspection and data service, and an experienced team, Nauticus expands our addressable market and accelerates our customer penetration in the offshore energy and renewables industries.”

In August 2023, Nauticus announced it was awarded an additional $2.7 million under its current contract with Leidos Holdings. The funded extension allows continued development of an Aquanaut derivative in preparation for customer adoption decisions and government opportunities expected later this year.