Boston-based subsea robotics designer and manufacturer Dive Technologies Inc. has announced a formal partnership with the Center for Marine Autonomy and Robotics at Virginia Tech.

The multi-year partnership will directly support the rapid development and testing of Dive Technologies’ large, novel AUV. Sea testing of the commercial product is scheduled for this summer.

“Leveraging the expertise of the Virginia Tech team has really pushed our AUV design forward in a uniquely innovative way and has created immense efficiency in our development schedule,” says Bill Lebo, co-founder and CTO of Dive Technologies.

“Our collaboration with Virginia Tech has pushed our team creatively and demonstrates the exceptional value of academic partnerships.”

Professor Dan Stilwell, director of the Center for Marine Autonomy and Robotics, adds, “our collaboration with Dive Technologies is an exciting opportunity to transition state-of-the-art technology from the academic lab into next-generation commercial applications.

“Professor Stefano Brizzolara and his team of graduate students have helped Dive Technologies capture innovations in vehicle design that enable long endurance missions. Our team is also transitioning state-of-the-art control, software, and autonomy.”