Edison Chouest is buying Norway-based manufacturer of remotely operated vehicle (ROV) systems Kystdesign in a strategic move to reinforce its commitment to underwater robotics. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The purchase comes a little less than a year removed from the Louisiana contractor scooping up ROV operator ROVOP. That deal expanded Chouest’s fleet to more than 100 ROVs and six autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).
“We are thrilled to welcome Kystdesign and its talented team into the Chouest family,” said Dino Chouest, owner of Edison Chouest Offshore. “By joining forces, we will continue delivering cutting-edge ROV systems and advancing the evolution of next-generation underwater robotics.”
The acquisition bolsters Chouest’s subsea capabilities, providing continued support for Kystdesign’s current clients while enhancing in-house solutions for C-Innovation LLC and ROVOP. The first integrated ROV system under the partnership is already in development.
“It is the right time to hand over Kystdesign to a new owner,” said Sven Stakkestad, chairman of the board of Kystdesign. “The Chouest Group possesses the knowledge, strength, and ambitions necessary to guide the company's future growth. We welcome the Chouest Group to the Haugaland offshore cluster and extend our best wishes to the entire team.”
Kystdesign has doubled its workforce in recent years, with projected 2024 turnover approaching NOK 500 million, and a record-high order backlog.
Kystdesign was founded by Pål G. Eide in 1997. The company just secured its largest contract to date in February from an unnamed international client related to the supply of four work-class ROVs, including Constructor and Constructor Compact models, along with launch and recovery systems, remote operating centers, and spares and extra equipment.
The contractor said the contract was “historic” in terms of value, but did not disclose the amount. The new equipment is scheduled for delivery in late 2025.
