Rovtech is to Acquire the VALOR Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Business from Seatronics

The strategic acquisition will enhance Rovtech’s position as a global technology leader in manufacturing robotics, tooling and harsh environment equipment for nuclear and subsea operations.


(Courtesy of Rovtech)


The company has a proven track record in developing precision robotics and stand-alone monitoring systems designed to withstand radiation, extreme heat, and deep ocean pressures.

The addition of the VALOR ROV boosts Rovtech’s portfolio with industry-leading technology tailored for subsea operations.

The VALOR ROV is a lightweight, highly portable system that has redefined industry benchmarks for what can be achieved in data collection and physical intervention, rivalling light work-class remotely operated vehicles at a far lower weight and cost.


(Courtesy of Rovtech)

John Polson, CEO of Rovtech, commented: “The VALOR ROV has provided a step change in what has traditionally been the limitations of an Observation Class ROV.

“Its lightweight design, power, manoeuvrability, and unmatched ability to integrate several state-of-the-art sensors, make it an indispensable tool for modern subsea operations, and we are thrilled to integrate this business into Rovtech.

“With this acquisition, we’re not just expanding our capabilitie – we’re looking to set the standard for efficiency and innovation across the nuclear and subsea energy sectors.

“Complementing our current nuclear ROV offering, we are now well-positioned as the provider of some of the world’s most advanced and reliable ROVs on the market. I am also excited to witness the incredible potential for collaboration between the two teams going forward, and what this will unlock.”

Rovtech was recently acquired by climate tech venture studio Ventex, which is focused on repurposing companies, technologies, skills and experience in the existing supply chain to support renewable energy markets.

The studio is also investing in early-stage companies with technologies that have significant potential to help solve the climate crisis.

Ventex Managing Partner Steve Gray said: “Rovtech’s acquisition of VALOR brings together world-class engineering and manufacturing with technology leadership to create a new leader in robotics for subsea, nuclear and other harsh environments.

“By applying Rovtech’s full-service product development, prototyping and manufacturing capability to the cutting-edge VALOR program, we will enable lower cost, safer and lower carbon work for end-users of subsea robotics.”

The deal doubles Rovtech’s workforce, which operates across two key sites in Aberdeen and Barrow-in-Furness, from 10 to 20 employees.

Ventex Managing Partner Stuart McLeod added: “This acquisition underscores Ventex Studio’s unwavering belief in, and commitment to, its portfolio companies and leadership teams.

“We want to elevate their ability to productise and scale technologies, ultimately positioning them as industry leaders.”

Location: UK