Jotron announced the acquisition of AD Navigation, a move that secures the company a market-leading position in Portable Pilot Units (PPU). By integrating AD Navigation’s expertise, Jotron expands its global portfolio with the world’s most accurate portable navigation systems, adding critical, battle-tested technology to counter the growing threat of GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) spoofing and jamming.
“We are very pleased to welcome AD Navigation into the Jotron Group. This acquisition strengthens our maritime product portfolio and further reinforces our highly skilled maritime competence environment. It also aligns with our long-term strategy of delivering innovative and reliable solutions to the maritime industry,” says Merete Berdal, CEO of Jotron.
Validated by real-world jamming tests
AD Navigation is renowned for producing high-precision portable navigation systems that allow seapilots to assist incoming ships to dock safely. While standard ship GNSS receivers often fail during jamming-attacks, AD Navigation’s unique technology has proven its resilience through rigorous live testing.
“Since 2021 we have collaborated with the Norwegian Coastal Administration (Kystverket) to test our systems against real jamming at Andøya Space Center. The results are clear: When the ship’s own systems go blind, our units keep working,” says Lorentz Ryan, Founder and Managing Director of AD Navigation.
AD Navigation’s XR2 Portable Pilot Unit system allows maritime pilots to bring a “layer of truth” on board, ensuring safe docking even when satellite signals are compromised. This technology will also create powerful, future synergies with Jotron’s existing communication and navigation portfolio. AD Navigation’s proven expertise in countering spoofing and jamming reinforces Jotron’s long-standing commitment to maritime safety.
For Jotron, this acquisition is about delivering a complete safety package. By becoming part of Jotron, this technology will now reach a global market through Jotron’s established network.
“We are not only adding “SeaPilot” as a new segment for Jotron; we are also gaining access to world-leading positioning technology and proven, state-of-the-art solutions against spoofing and jamming. This acquisition strengthens our ability to deliver secure and precise navigation solutions for the global maritime industry,” says Vegar Pettersen, Director Sales and Marketing, Maritime & Energy Division at Jotron.
Continuity and innovation
All employees in AD Navigation will continue in the company, ensuring that the specialized competence remains intact.
“It is a great privilege to join forces with one of Norway’s leading maritime electronics companies. Together with Jotron’s highly skilled team, we will globally strengthen our focus on safe and efficient ship navigation in ports and coastal waters,” adds Ryan.
Innovation is at the core of Jotron’s DNA, creating a strong cultural fit between the two companies. The specialists from AD Navigation will complement Jotron’s already strong development environment, allowing both teams to challenge and strengthen each other.
With AD Navigation’s anti-spoofing and anti-jamming technology, combined with Jotron’s proven communication and navigation systems, we are adding yet another vital dimension to its “Safe Journey” mission. This acquisition positions Jotron at the forefront of integrated communication and navigation solutions for maritime safety worldwide.
