Ocean Power Technologies Tests WAM-V Platform in U.S. Army Surf-Zone Trials
Event summary
- Ocean Power Technologies conducted a formally evaluated demonstration of its WAM-V® 8 platform in surf-zone conditions at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Field Research Facility in Duck, North Carolina, on September 18, 2026.
- Testing focused on sensor performance, vehicle configuration, and sensor deployment methods in demanding near-shore environments.
- Data and operational insights gathered will inform the development of OPT’s 16- and 22-foot WAM-V platforms.
- Jason Weed, Chief Operating Officer of OPT, highlighted the value of testing in challenging conditions for advancing platform development.
The big picture
Ocean Power Technologies' surf-zone testing with the U.S. Army highlights the growing importance of autonomous ocean systems in defense and security applications. The collaboration underscores the strategic value of real-world testing in advancing maritime operational infrastructure, particularly in challenging environments. This development could position OPT as a key player in the defense and security sector, where reliable and adaptable unmanned surface vessels are increasingly in demand.
What we're watching
- Defense Contracts
- How the successful surf-zone testing will impact OPT’s ability to secure defense contracts for its WAM-V platforms.
- Technical Integration
- Whether OPT can effectively integrate the insights gained from surf-zone testing into the development of larger WAM-V vehicles.
- Market Expansion
- The pace at which OPT can expand its WAM-V platform offerings into other near-shore and demanding environments.