San Diego, January 7, 2026
Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. (OPT) has secured a $5 million contract to enhance maritime domain awareness for the U.S. Coast Guard near San Diego. This initiative will deploy four advanced PowerBuoy® systems, improving surveillance capabilities at sea. The collaboration with federal entities, including the Department of Homeland Security, demonstrates how innovation can strengthen community safety while promoting economic growth in California’s coastal cities. This project exemplifies the intersection of technology and national security.
San Diego, California – January 6, 2026
Innovative Maritime Initiative Enhances San Diego’s Security
Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. (OPT) has recently made headlines with a significant contract exceeding $5 million, aimed at bolstering maritime domain awareness (MDA) for the U.S. Coast Guard off the coast of San Diego, California. As local entrepreneurs and businesses continue to innovate in diverse sectors, this project showcases the intersection of technology and national security, revealing how California’s coastal cities can enhance community safety while driving economic growth.
By deploying four MERROWS-equipped PowerBuoy® systems, OPT is championing the advancement of surveillance capabilities that operate continuously and efficiently. This commitment to innovation highlights how reduced regulatory burdens can foster entrepreneurial endeavors capable of addressing critical public safety needs.
Strategic Integration with State-of-the-Art Technology
The deployment of PowerBuoy® platforms marks a notable collaboration between OPT and federal entities, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These buoy systems will seamlessly integrate into DHS’s C5I environment, complementing existing Anduril surveillance towers to create a sophisticated integrated sensing architecture. In this setup, data from buoy-based and tower-based sensors will channel into Anduril’s Lattice command-and-control system, enhancing real-time decision-making for mission operators.
Focus on Persistent Maritime Surveillance
The growing demand for persistent maritime surveillance systems underscores the importance of continuous oversight in protecting coastal areas. These PowerBuoy® systems are designed to operate in challenging marine environments without the logistical challenges posed by fuel dependencies or frequent maintenance. This capability not only provides effective solutions to existing issues but also exemplifies how innovative technologies can emerge from reduced regulatory frameworks, promoting private sector investment.
Profile of Ocean Power Technologies, Inc.
Founded with a vision to provide innovative marine power solutions, Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. has established a reputation for developing cost-effective, low-carbon energy and data solutions. Their collaboration with federal agencies reflects a commitment to advancing maritime security through technology that harnesses renewable energy. The integration of PowerBuoy® systems with advanced surveillance capabilities indicates a significant leap forward for maritime security, ensuring U.S. coastlines are effectively monitored and safeguarded.
Call for Community Engagement
As this remarkable initiative unfolds, it invites the community of San Diego to stay informed and engaged with local economic developments. Supporting local businesses such as OPT not only fosters innovation but drives economic resilience across the region. With the bustling San Diego County economy ever-evolving, entrepreneurial ventures like these can serve as catalysts for growth, impacting job creation and community safety significantly.
Key Takeaways and Future Outlook
The collaboration between OPT and U.S. Coast Guard marks a pivotal moment in enhancing maritime domain awareness while showcasing how San Diego fosters entrepreneurial innovation. By leveraging advanced technology and prioritizing real-time data integration, this initiative sets a precedent for future projects aimed at promoting safety and security without the burden of excessive regulation. Residents and local stakeholders can look forward to an increasingly secure coastal environment driven by the innovative spirit of San Diego’s businesses.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the contract awarded to Ocean Power Technologies, Inc.?
The contract, exceeding $5 million, is for deploying and operating four MERROWS-equipped PowerBuoy® systems off the coast of San Diego, California, to enhance maritime domain awareness for the U.S. Coast Guard under the Department of Homeland Security.
How will the PowerBuoy® platforms integrate with existing surveillance systems?
The PowerBuoy® platforms will integrate into the Department of Homeland Security’s C5I environment and will be deployed alongside several Anduril surveillance towers, forming an integrated sensing architecture.
What benefits does this integrated system provide to mission operators?
Data from both buoy-based and tower-based sensors will be transmitted to Anduril’s Lattice command-and-control system, providing mission operators with unified situational awareness and real-time decision support.
Why is there a growing demand for persistent maritime surveillance systems?
This demonstration underscores the growing demand for persistent maritime surveillance systems capable of operating continuously in challenging environments without the logistical burden of fuel or frequent maintenance.
What is the role of Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. in this initiative?
By collaborating with the U.S. Coast Guard and DHS, Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. aims to provide a solution that enhances real-time maritime domain awareness.
Key Features of the Maritime Surveillance Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Contract Value | Over $5 million |
| Deployment Location | Off the coast of San Diego, California |
| Number of PowerBuoy® Systems | Four |
| Integration Partners | Anduril surveillance towers |
| Data Transmission System | Anduril’s Lattice command-and-control system |
| Objective | Enhance maritime domain awareness for the U.S. Coast Guard under the Department of Homeland Security |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Navy Invests $448 Million to Modernize Shipbuilding with AI
El Cajon Company and HR Manager Plead Guilty to Immigration Charges
Trade with Mexico Fuels San Diego’s Job Market
USS Abraham Lincoln Departs San Diego for New Deployment
Alleged Boat Captain Charged in Fatal Smuggling Incident
San Diego Marks 250 Years of Naval Presence
USS Santa Barbara Commander Relieved Amid Regional Tensions
San Diego Medical Examiner Identifies Traffic Fatalities
Coast Guard Intercepts Migrant Boat Off San Diego Coast
USS Cape St. George Returns to San Diego After Major Upgrades
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
