This article published in collaboration with JUIDA, the Japan UAS Industrial Development Association.
Oceanic Constellations, a Kamakura-based maritime startup, has signed a joint demonstration contract with Keihin Dock—the Japan Mail Ship Group’s sole shipbuilder—to establish mass production infrastructure for unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). Announced on October 23, 2025, this partnership marks significant progress toward realizing the world’s first USV constellation program, branded as “Ocean Satellite Swarm™.”
The collaboration focuses on implementing digital engineering approaches to scale USV production. Keihin Dock will contribute its established shipbuilding and repair technologies alongside expertise in digital transformation and energy transformation initiatives within the shipbuilding sector. Oceanic Constellations brings its marine digital twin technology and integrated autonomous vehicle development capabilities to the partnership.
The USV constellation concept applies innovative unmanned systems architecture from the space industry to maritime applications. By deploying multiple USVs across ocean expanses to establish sensor and communication networks, the program enables continuous 24/7 ocean monitoring. This approach addresses critical maritime challenges including illegal fishing, smuggling, disaster response, marine resource management, and maritime security.
“The project represents our management philosophy of creating solutions, products, and human capital for society, our customers, and our team,” said Toshiro Nakamura, president of Keihin Dock. “We will accelerate joint demonstration experiments by providing our accumulated shipbuilding expertise and knowledge of digital and energy transformation in the shipbuilding industry.”
Oceanic Constellations CEO Takuma Honda stated, “Our partnership grew from our earlier collaboration agreement with Japan Mail Ship on offshore reusable rockets. By combining Keihind Dock’s long-cultivated shipbuilding technology with our autonomous vehicle integration development technology, we are advancing toward Japan’s first new industry creation through USV constellation technology.”
Oceanic Constellations, founded in November 2023, operates with multidisciplinary teams from aerospace, IT, academia, and automotive sectors. The company has filed 25 marine swarm control patents, with 18 already granted intellectual property rights. Targeting 2027 commercialization, the startup has established partnerships with central ministries, local governments, marine industries, and academic institutions, positioning itself for global market expansion through its proprietary swarm control and energy management technologies integrated into USV constellation architecture.
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Ian McNabb is a journalist focusing on drone technology and lifestyle content at Dronelife. He is based between Boston and NH and, when not writing, enjoys hiking and Boston area sports.