ARM Institute opens technology project call to speed submarine manufacturing - The Robot Report

The ARM Institute has launched a new Technology Project Call aimed at accelerating submarine manufacturing by addressing critical challenges within the U.S. marine industrial base (MIB). The call seeks mature technologies (Technology Readiness Level 7+) that can be demonstrated in shipyard-representative environments to enhance production capabilities for Columbia-class and Virginia-class submarines. Key focus areas include welding automation and monitoring, metrology and in-process inspection, and casting process automation. Proposals must be submitted by Nov. 21 via the ARM member community, as only members can apply. This initiative responds to significant issues facing the MIB, such as workforce shortages, loss of expert knowledge, supply chain instability, and technical hurdles that could be mitigated through robotics and artificial intelligence. The ARM Institute emphasizes collaboration among industry, government, and academia to foster innovation and overcome funding or technical barriers. The project call is part of a broader schedule of calls planned through early 2026, reflecting the Institute’s ongoing commitment to strengthening U.S