BlackSea Technologies Named Initial Certified Training Provider for AUVSI’s Trusted UMS Operator Program
Company Also Contributed to Development of Training Standard
BALTIMORE, MD, May 27, 2025 – BlackSea Technologies (“BlackSea”), a leader in the development of innovative maritime systems and mission solutions for the defense and intelligence communities, today announced it has been selected as one of the first certified training providers for the Trusted UMS Operator Program recently launched by the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI). BlackSea’s Director of Integrated Product Support, Jim Kockler, who built and leads the company’s training program, served as one of the founding committee members guiding the development of the AUVSI program.
The design, manufacturing, and deployment of uncrewed maritime systems (UMS) continues to grow rapidly. The military stands poised to increase its reliance on these vessels for mission-critical operations to protect warfighters, defeat adversaries, and enhance the nation’s defense. Achieving desired outcomes depends on properly operating and leveraging UMSs. Until now, no standard has existed for UMS training and credentialing. AUVSI’s Trusted UMS Operator Program addresses that need.
“BlackSea is proud to share and integrate the lessons we have learned from our ongoing GARC USV training for the U.S. Navy. In particular, we are exploring ways to scale training with consistent standards as our platforms continue to proliferate in the fleet,” said Jason Lamb, Chief Strategy Officer at BlackSea Technologies. “We placed a high priority on being part of the solution, both in the development of the Trusted UMS Operator Program and in its implementation and execution as an AUVSI certified training provider.”
BlackSea’s unrivaled expertise in scaled UMS production, testing, delivery, and support for U.S. Naval initiatives played a vital role in the creation of a comprehensive and practical standard. AUVSI chose BlackSea as an initial certified training provider because of its demonstrated excellence in uncrewed maritime training and ability to align curricula with the requirements defined in the Trusted UMS Operator Program.
“This program was built by the people who know the mission best – those operating, training, and deploying uncrewed maritime systems every day, like BlackSea Technologies,” said Casie Ocana, Vice President of Public Affairs at AUVSI. “Their expertise ensured we created a framework that’s not only rigorous, but also relevant and ready for real-world use.”
About BlackSea Technologies
BlackSea Technologies is a premier naval technology firm enabling new asymmetric strategies so U.S. Naval and military forces can prevail over the next several decades in multi-dimensional conflicts. We deliver innovative maritime systems and mission solutions to our nation’s warfighters from the ocean surface to the seabed.
Headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, we produce our Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC) sUSV and other vessels at the former Bethlehem-Fairfield Shipyard in Baltimore where Liberty Ships were built during World War II. For more information about BlackSea, please visit our web site and follow us on LinkedIn.
Media Contact
Alan Gilbert
BlackSea Technologies
703 624 4675
