By Neil Hodges, Managing Director, BlueZone Group

 

As 2025 draws to a close, it’s a moment to reflect on a year that has been nothing short of transformative for BlueZone Group. From celebrating our 25-year anniversary to forging strategic partnerships and showcasing innovation on the global stage, this year has reinforced our commitment to delivering sovereign capability and cutting-edge technology for Australia’s maritime domain.

 

Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence

September marked a significant milestone—BlueZone Group’s 25th anniversary. This celebration was more than a look back at our history; it was a reaffirmation of our vision to lead in Mine Counter Measures (MCM), Diver propulsion and navigation, remote and autonomous systems, and subsea technologies.

 

IndoPac 2025: Our Biggest Showcase Yet

November saw BlueZone make its largest-ever presence at the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition. We unveiled next-generation capabilities, including Diver propulsion, navigation and  Closed Circuit Rebreather Systems and advanced REMUS unmanned systems, while signing landmark representative agreements with SeeByte—a global leader in autonomy and mission systems, and Kraken Robotics, a global leader in Synthetic Aperture Sonar and underwater battery technologies.

 

Strategic Partnerships and Growth

2025 was a year of collaboration. We advanced agreements with Kraken Robotics, enhancing support for synthetic aperture sonar systems, and deepened ties with industry leaders such as HII, SAAB, Blueprint Subsea and Aion Group.

 

Innovation and Operational Achievements

Our operational teams delivered exceptional results across multiple programs:

• Hull Cleaning System: Delivered and supported operations of an advanced hull cleaning ROV.
• Intermediate ASW Training Target: Maintenance and support for SAAB & RAN training missions.
• Geospatial and survey capability program: Successfully conducted acceptance activities for the updated system.
• Hand Held Sonar program: Completed follow up operational training, reinforcing our leadership in diving systems.

 

Marketing and Engagement

The Undercurrents newsletter continued to grow, reaching over 1,600 subscribers and delivering thought leadership on topics such as mine warfare, marine dynamics, and technical innovations.

 

Looking Ahead

As we move into 2026, our focus remains clear: driving innovation, strengthening partnerships, and delivering solutions that meet the evolving needs of defence and industry. Thank you to our team, partners, and customers for making 2025 a landmark year. Together, we will continue to stay Ahead of the Tide.

 

BlueZone Directors Darren Burrowes & Neil Hodges (Photo credit: Jérôme Treize).