HOUSTON, – Nauticus Robotics, Inc. (NASDAQ: KITT) has secured a strategic investment of up to $50 million from Master Investment Group, signaling a significant push into the burgeoning market for autonomous subsea robotics. The agreement, announced today, aims to establish a manufacturing and offshore services hub in the United Arab Emirates, accelerating the global deployment of Nauticus’s Aquanaut® platform.
The initial tranche of the investment totals $3 million, earmarked for startup activities related to Nauticus’ UAE business unit. Further capital will be made available to support expansion, according to the company. This move underscores a broader trend of investment in advanced robotics and automation within the Middle East, as nations in the region seek to diversify their economies and establish themselves as technology hubs.
Regional Hub for Advanced Offshore Robotics
Nauticus plans to create a dedicated manufacturing, sales, and offshore services business unit within the UAE. Site selection is currently underway, with Master Investment Group committing to fund facility development, workforce training, and initial manufacturing capabilities. The intention is to position the operation as a regional center for advanced subsea robotics, serving the Middle East and adjacent areas.
The company has already taken preliminary steps, forming a local legal entity and identifying potential facility locations. This proactive approach is designed to expedite operational readiness once definitive agreements are finalized. Master Investment Group has also pledged to assist Nauticus in securing an initial Aquanaut® deployment contract within the region, leveraging its existing network and market access.
Once fully operational, the facility is expected to increase production capacity for the Aquanaut® platform, facilitate the delivery of offshore robotic services, and support the future deployment of additional Nauticus technologies. This expansion is critical for Nauticus as it seeks to scale its operations and capitalize on growing demand for autonomous subsea solutions.
Strategic Capital to Accelerate Commercialization
The collaboration with Master Investment Group directly supports Nauticus’s strategy to expand manufacturing, broaden international market reach, and accelerate revenue generation from offshore services. The partnership also aligns with the UAE’s broader objectives of becoming a regional leader in robotics and industrial automation. The investment is intended to foster local job creation, technology transfer, and alignment with national industrial strategies.
The Aquanaut® platform, Nauticus’s flagship product, is designed to reduce operational costs and gather data for the maintenance and operation of subsea infrastructure. The company’s business model encompasses service provision, vehicle and component sales, and software licensing to both commercial and defense sectors.
Management Commentary
Sheikh Abdulla Al Qassimi, Managing Director of Master Investment Group, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership. “We are excited to enter into this strategic relationship with Nauticus and to support the establishment of advanced autonomous robotics capabilities in the UAE,” he stated. “This initiative reflects our commitment to attracting world-class technology, building high-value industrial capacity, and positioning the UAE as a regional center for robotics, automation, and next-generation offshore services. We see significant long-term potential in this collaboration, not only for Nauticus’ growth, but for the development of local talent, innovation, and sustainable industrial infrastructure across the UAE.”
John Gibson, President and CEO of Nauticus Robotics, echoed this sentiment. “This proposed investment represents a meaningful step forward in our global growth strategy,” he commented. “Establishing Aquanaut® manufacturing and offshore services in the UAE allows us to accelerate deployment, reduce delivery timelines, and better serve customers across international markets. Fleet expansion is fundamental to building the company, and this relationship represents an important first milestone toward that objective.”
Transaction Status and Forward-Looking Statements
The proposed transaction is contingent upon securing necessary third-party and governmental approvals. The parties anticipate achieving initial operational capability in , pending final approvals.
Nauticus Robotics develops autonomous robots for the ocean industries, utilizing sensors, artificial intelligence, and algorithms to enable robots to adapt to changing underwater environments. The company also offers technology products for retrofitting and upgrading traditional remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).
Master Investment Group is a regional investment company based in the UAE, focused on integrated investment solutions across various business sectors. The group aims to develop investments that align with international standards and contribute to economic development within the UAE and internationally.
