Ocean Aero Expands Gulfport, Mississippi, Operations

Area Development News Desk

08/31/2026

Autonomous maritime technology company Ocean Aero plans to expand its operations in Gulfport, Mississippi. The $4 million project is expected to create 45 jobs.

The investment at the company’s existing facility will include approximately 25,000 square feet of storage space that will be converted into production-ready manufacturing space.

“Demand for our autonomous maritime capabilities is growing rapidly, and this expansion positions Ocean Aero to deliver TRITON systems at greater scale in support of our customers and their missions,” said Ocean Aero CEO Kevin Decker. “Our Gulfport headquarters is the epicenter of Ocean Aero’s growth, and we’re excited to continue investing in our facility, our workforce and the state of Mississippi.”

To support the project, the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) is providing assistance for building improvements. Harrison County is also contributing to the expansion.

“The work doesn’t end when a company chooses Mississippi,” noted Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Bill Cork. “Helping innovative Mississippi manufacturers like Ocean Aero continue investing and expanding is central to MDA’s mission. This latest win goes to show what’s possible when a company has the right partnerships to quickly scale its operations, create jobs and continue building for the future right here in Mississippi.”

Ocean Aero develops autonomous maritime systems for defense, research, and energy applications. The company’s TRITON is an environmentally powered autonomous underwater and surface vehicle designed to collect and relay data from above and below the ocean’s surface.

“From its humble beginnings in San Diego, Ocean Aero has grown to become a global leader in innovation and is now headquartered in Gulfport,” added Harrison County Development Commission Executive Director Bill Lavers. “We have enjoyed being part of their journey, highlighting Mississippi’s workforce and strategic partnerships.”

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