Dutch submersible manufacturer U-Boat Worx has implemented a major corporate restructuring, forming three specialized divisions to address different market segments. The company simultaneously announced the appointment of maritime industry veteran Wilbert Versteeg as its new Chief Executive Officer.The newly established divisions include:UBW Exploration – Focused on the company's core business of manned submersibles for private and commercial use. The division will continue production of existing models including the Cruise Sub series (7-11 passengers), compact NEMO (2-3 passengers), Super Yacht Sub, and the high-speed Super Sub. A new wet-lease program will offer submersible charters with crew and technical support.UBW Components – Will commercialize proprietary subsea technologies originally developed for U-Boat Worx vessels, including pressure-tolerant battery systems, thrusters, lighting arrays, and control electronics for third-party manufacturers.UBW Naval – Dedicated to developing mission-specific submersible solutions for military and security applications, including surveillance, infrastructure protection, and search-and-rescue operations."This structure allows each division to act with clarity, autonomy and purpose," stated newly appointed CEO Wilbert Versteeg. "My mission is to make U-Boat Worx the most accessible, innovative, and operationally reliable submersible company in the world."Versteeg brings three decades of maritime industry experience to the role. His appointment coincides with growing demand for underwater solutions across multiple sectors, including tourism, research, and defense. The company has delivered more than 60 submersibles since its founding twenty years ago.The restructuring reflects U-Boat Worx's vertically integrated business model, which encompasses design, manufacturing, and operator training. According to Marketing Director Roy Heijdra, the new divisions will enable more targeted customer engagement across different market segments.The naval division's creation responds to increased government interest in submersible capabilities for maritime security applications. Meanwhile, the components division represents a strategic expansion into the broader underwater technology supply chain.No immediate changes to existing product lines or customer support structures were announced. The company maintains its headquarters in Breda, Netherlands, where all submersible manufacturing occurs.Industry analysts note the reorganization positions U-Boat Worx to capitalize on growing private and commercial interest in underwater exploration while expanding into the defense sector. The move follows recent deliveries to luxury yacht owners and cruise operators, as well as ongoing research collaborations with oceanographic institutions.Credits: StudioHansKeur/U-Boat Worx
July 24, 2025