A new merger combines deep sea surveying drones with autonomous underwater vehicles to offer comprehensive monitoring and analytics for offshore industries.

Nautilus Robotics, developer of ocean-going robots, has acquired marine sensor company DeepVision in a deal worth $38 million. DeepVision specializes in high-resolution underwater LIDAR scanning and 3D visualization.

Integrating DeepVision's laser imaging and mapping payloads onto Nautilus' fleet of aquatic drones creates a uniquely capable platform. The merged capabilities enable detailed inspection, modeling and assessment of subsea assets and environments.

Nautilus' autonomous underwater vehicles can now collect dense LIDAR data and high-fidelity sonar imaging as they patrol offshore sites. The rich sensor feeds are processed by AI algorithms to detect changes, identify anomalies and photogrammetrically map asset conditions.

DeepVision significantly expands the market for Nautilus' services. Oil and gas firms can monitor seafloor pipelines and rig infrastructure. Wind farms can routinely inspect turbines and foundations for signs of corrosion and fatigue. Port authorities can create 3D reconstructions of harbors and channels to guide dredging.

"Marrying DeepVision's sensing excellence with our roboats' endurance and autonomy opens a new chapter in deep sea data harvesting," said Nautilus CEO Timothy McEwen. "Together we can provide 24/7 monitoring of offshore assets and environments that was unthinkable just a few years ago."

Nautilus also gains DeepVision's data processing expertise, including cloud-based 3D modeling and virtual tour generation. This unlocks new subscription offerings for customers spanning survey, inspection and monitoring.

The merged company envisions deploying fleets of robotic vessels that cost-effectively patrol remote waters for months without human guidance. The rise of oceanic roboops promises to make underwater industrial activity safer and more sustainable.