Ocius Technology, an Australian maritime technology company, has announced a contract extension for its Operation Resolute mission with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and Maritime Border Command. The contract, originally extended in November 2024 to June 2025, has now been further extended through June 30, 2026. This marks the largest contract the company has signed to date.
Since July 2024, Ocius has been operating its autonomous surface vessels, known as Bluebottles, from a base at HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin. These vessels have logged over 85,000 nautical miles at sea, with individual missions lasting up to 107 days, demonstrating high endurance and persistence in maritime surveillance.
The extension includes plans to expand the fleet with larger BETH 2.0 vessels and to test new payloads and communication systems. Ocius has also signed contracts with the Maritime Integrated Capability Branch to install and commission these payloads during operations out of Darwin in the latter half of 2025.
In addition to Australian operations, Ocius’ US partner, Thayer Mahan, has been testing Bluebottles combined with their Outpost undersea surveillance system in the Atlantic Ocean, showcasing the vessels’ capabilities in challenging conditions.
The company recently welcomed Brian Gordon as its new Head of Engineering. Gordon brings over 20 years of experience in engineering and technology development, including leadership roles in autonomous drones and medical device companies.
Ocius continues to support maritime security efforts, including deployments with Marine Parks Australia to monitor illegal fishing activities and collaborations with the Royal New Zealand Navy, which has taken delivery of two 24-foot BETH 2.0 vessels.
This ongoing expansion and technological advancement position Ocius as a key player in autonomous maritime surveillance and security operations globally.