Following two years of intensive groundwork, underwater survey system manufacturer R3Vox Ltd has officially launched in Malta.

The launch came during an event organised by the company at a leading Maltese hotel, during which time Founder and Executive Chairman Jens R Steenstrup stated: “Two years ago, when I decided to establish a fully-fledged manufacturing company in the EU, it quickly became clear that Malta was the perfect fit for the location of a high-tech company.”

“We are here today to launch, a whole new class of patented underwater mapping sonars which will be manufactured right here in Malta and delivered to customers around the world,” he continued.

R3Vox Ltd Executive Chairman Jens R Steenstrup during the launch

“We have an international and a Maltese audience and all the underwater community brought together here so that we can actually launch and sell the most advanced survey system in the world,” Mr Steenstrup remarked.

During this event, R3Vox launched its ground-breaking technology system, the Voxometer™ which is revolutionising the way that hydrographic data is collected and processed. Mr Steenstrup explained how this cutting-edge hydrospatial technology will enable customers to carry out underwater surveys in half the time which existing systems would incur.

From his end, R3Vox Managing Director Ruben Cuschieri stated that during the last 18 months, the company, apart from being heavily engaged in totally renovating its premises in Mrieħel into a state-of-the-art innovation and development plant, it has also managed to build up a team of highly-skilled and qualified individuals who are now fully geared up to commence manufacture and global support.

The products developed by R3Vox can be used for dredging, quay walls and vertical structures, marine construction, as well as offshore windfarms and research. It was explained that the company not only developed an innovative product but have also invested in “dedicated educational equipment” to help train their clients on product usage.

“This company is a prime example of innovation in the blue economy that embraces innovation and a forward-looking vision, creating quality careers. It is another tangible example of the research, development and innovation that is thriving on our islands,” said Minister for Environment, Energy and Enterprise Miriam Dalli.

Minister for Environment, Energy and Enterprise Miriam Dalli during the launch

“Our island has a very strong maritime sector and we’re constantly investing in the blue economy as it provides a sustainable approach to the use and conservation of ocean resources,” she continued.

She added: “The participation of R3Vox is a valuable addition to this economic niche as we continue to strengthen our focus on economic growth that ensures the sustainability of our seas. Our ambition is that of a stronger niche industry that attracts foreign blue investment to our shores.”

The blue economy is an important contributor to the local economy, as Malta Enterprise continues to sustain several investments that give added value to this thriving sector, while augmenting its growth potential. Latest statistics show that the maritime sector accounts for up to 14 per cent of Malta’s GDP, including over 22,000 jobs in direct and indirect employment.

Malta Enterprise CEO Kurt Farrugia during the launch

From his end, Malta Enterprise CEO Kurt Farrugia expressed his esteem for the technological and engineering excellence displayed during the launch by Mr Steenstrup and his team, which “will surely provide a global showcase for made-in-Malta products in niche blue economy sectors”.

“Malta’s location, the business environment, the unlimited opportunities that the seas around us offer, the skilled and talented workforce, and technology development, provide the right ecosystem for these economic sectors to thrive in Malta,” he concluded.