Its HAUVs combine AI-driven autonomy with sensing and reporting tools, allowing vehicles to operate with minimal human intervention and without dependence on large support vessels.
Founded in 2018 as a spin-off from the National University of Singapore (NUS), BeeX specialises in autonomous robotics systems designed to protect and inspect critical underwater infrastructure.
“This allows DSTA and the SAF (Singapore Armed Forces) to build advanced underwater capabilities for the HAUVs to operate effectively in Singapore’s challenging underwater environment,” said DSTA’s director Naval Systems Ong Li Koon.
“Working closely with BeeX on other projects, DSTA aims to also explore solutions that enhance seabed scanning with better autonomy and accuracy. By leveraging commercial technologies and adapting them for defence, DSTA develops new capabilities quickly to strengthen the SAF’s technological edge.”
The deal, made on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, builds on an existing collaboration in which DSTA has been working closely with BeeX to co-develop and tailor autonomous underwater solutions suited to Singapore’s complex marine environment, BeeX said.
It’s not just about defence: BeeX’s HAUVs have been deployed in offshore wind and infrastructure preservation and maritime energy with efficiency and safety benefits.
The company also operates under an Autonomous Robotics-as-a-Service (ARaaS) model, integrating hardware and software to help customers analyse underwater conditions through high-resolution visualisation and sonar data.
In recent years BeeX has attracted investment and global attention, launching a SGD 10 million Series A funding round and advancing its HAUV platforms for commercial and defence applications.
DSTA’s partnership with BeeX reflects a broader push to harness innovative technologies extending beyond traditional defence suppliers to commercial deep-tech firms capable of delivering dual-use capabilities.
”Our collaboration with BeeX demonstrates how leveraging commercial, dual use technology can fuel innovation, drive us to deliver transformative capabilities and sharpen Singapore’s defence edge,” said Ong Li Koon.
