L3 acquires autonomous vessel specialist ASV Global

L3 ASV's C-Worker 7 is a multi-role work class autonomous vessel suitable for a variety of offshore and coastal tasks

SEPTEMBER 24, 2018 — Earlier this month, L3 Technologies (NYSE:LLL) said that it had appointed  former Acting Secretary of the Navy Sean J. Stackley as Corporate Senior VP and President, Communications & Networked Systems and had realigned all maritime capabilities into a newly-named Communications & Networked Systems segment.

Now, just days later, L3 reports that it acquired ASV Global, LLC, a leading unmanned surface vessel (USV) and autonomous vessel control systems specialist on September 20.

The new company will be known as L3 ASV.

L3 says that the acquisition strategically enhances its full spectrum of unmanned maritime capabilities, including integrated anti-submarine warfare (ASW) solutions, future surface combatant unmanned off-board sensors, and integrated unmanned surface and undersea vessel (USV/UUV) operations.

“L3 continues to collaborate on and deliver best-in-class maritime sensor, autonomy, USV/UUV, and command and control technologies,” said Mr. Stackley. “Aligning L3 ASV’s proprietary surface vessel control technology and proven unmanned system autonomy architecture with our already strong UUV capabilities allows us to stay ahead of the curve in helping our customers meet their mission objectives.”

“Autonomous capabilities for surface ships and undersea vessels are top priorities for our naval and commercial maritime customers, and we are increasing our investments to lead in this strategic growth area and strengthen L3’s position as a leading supplier of maritime solutions,” said Christopher E. Kubasik, L3’s Chairman, CEO and President. “The addition of L3 ASV enables us to deliver both unmanned surface and undersea vehicle technologies to an expanded international customer base and take a prime contractor position on major unmanned systems.”

Based in Louisiana and the United Kingdom, L3 ASV delivers surface vessels in a range of sizes, currently from 10 to 42 feet, with proprietary software and control systems and proven unmanned system autonomy architectures. These capabilities have been demonstrated on multiple vessel types and sizes with over 1,500 operating days of service. Additionally, the company’s autonomy systems are consistent with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (COLREGs).