Sonardyne Adds Chelsea

Subsea technology developer Sonardyne has acquired maritime and marine science technology specialist Chelsea Technologies Group.

Sonardyne said that this acquisition is part of its long-term growth strategy to diversify into markets where it sees an opportunity to build on its core technology base and expertise in underwater acoustic and optical communications, navigation and autonomous monitoring systems.

In acquiring Chelsea (also known as CTG), Sonardyne believes it will both strengthen its presence in the maritime, marine and ocean science sectors and create new opportunities in the water environmental, defence and process control markets. Chelsea will gain access to Sonardyne’s research, production, testing, compliance and global distribution capabilities, allowing the company to access many more international territories.

Chelsea will remain an independent business, as part of the Sonardyne group of companies. Chelsea’s Brian Phillips will become Executive Chairman of the company, while Stephen Fasham will move from a senior management role at Sonardyne to become Managing Director at Chelsea. The terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

“Chelsea, like Sonardyne, is a UK-based, privately-owned, technology driven company with a deep understanding in software and sensor development,” says Sonardyne managing director John Ramsden. “They have strong footholds in shipping, hydrographic and ocean science markets, which complement our capabilities. In addition, Chelsea operates in the water environmental, process control and defence markets. We believe there are exciting opportunities for us in these sectors, which will be part of our future growth.”