Japanese ocean-technology company Oceanic Constellations, logistics firm Sagami Transportation & Warehouse and NYK-owned shipbuilder Keihin Dock have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore the establishment of a dedicated unmanned marine vehicle development, construction and repair hub in Yokosuka, Japan.
The proposed Yokosuka Constellations Center would be located in the Nagaura port district of Taura Port Town. The facility is expected to support the research and development, construction, repair and operation of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and unmanned underwater vehicles, including autonomous underwater vehicles and remotely operated vehicles.
Under the agreement, the three partners will combine their respective capabilities. Sagami Transportation & Warehouse will contribute its port logistics and local operating expertise, while Keihin Dock will provide shipbuilding and repair capabilities. Oceanic Constellations will contribute its engineering, unmanned-vessel development and manufacturing expertise.
The partners will study the establishment of the centre, prepare joint proposals for commercialisation programmes and develop a framework for operating the facility. The project follows a Yokosuka City regulatory change on August 25 that allows facilities in Taura Port Town to conduct research, development, construction, repair and operational services for unmanned marine vehicles.
The initiative builds on earlier cooperation between the companies. Keihin Dock and Oceanic Constellations agreed in October 2025 to demonstrate a digital-engineering-based mass-production system for small USVs, while NYK has also invested in Oceanic Constellations to support unmanned-vessel production and marine simulation technology.
Oceanic Constellations, founded in 2023, is developing marine swarm-control technology and aims for full-scale commercialisation in 2027. The proposed Yokosuka hub could therefore provide an important base for Japan’s emerging unmanned-vessel industry, supporting both commercial marine applications and advanced maritime technology development.