Kongsberg has completed its acquisition of Sonatech, expanding its US underwater technology business and strengthening its position as a supplier to the US Navy.
The company acquired 100 percent of Sonatech, although it did not disclose the transaction value.
Based in California, Sonatech specializes in undersea acoustics and has more than 50 years of experience developing and manufacturing systems that transmit, receive, and process acoustic signals underwater.
It has a long-standing relationship with the US Navy and reported $33 million in revenue in 2024.
Kongsberg said the acquisition will combine Sonatech’s underwater acoustics expertise with its own work in acoustic sensors, navigation, autonomous systems, and signal processing.
The acquisition follows Kongsberg’s broader push to expand its underwater business in the US. In 2025, the company announced plans to begin producing HUGIN autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) in the country, citing increased defense demand and growing interest from the US Navy.
Kongsberg Eyes Bigger US Sonar Footprint
Sonar is central to underwater operations because radio and many other conventional sensing technologies do not work effectively underwater.
Acoustic systems can be used to detect, locate, classify, and communicate with objects below the surface, making them important for missions ranging from mine countermeasures to seabed surveillance.
For Kongsberg, the deal expands the products it can offer to US customers. Sonatech’s portfolio includes customized sonar and underwater communications systems, while Kongsberg develops AUVs, including its HUGIN family.
“Maritime domain awareness is critical in today’s rapidly evolving security landscape,” Kongsberg CEO Eirik Lie said.