French start-up Bubble Robotics, founded in 2025, plans to test a system of subsea drones and robotic surface vessels this summer in partnership with Ifremer. Drawing inspiration from SpaceX’s « NewSpace » methods, the company aims to monitor oceans and protect critical infrastructure. Led by Jean Crosetti and Patricia Apostol, it pursues this vision.
Bubble Robotics, a French start-up founded in 2025, adapts the « NewSpace » model, led by SpaceX, to the oceans. CEO Jean Crosetti and technical director Patricia Apostol – an engineer trained at Nasa and ETH Zurich’s École polytechnique – lead the firm. Their mission: « Faire des océans une force de résilience pour le futur », by mapping seabeds and monitoring critical infrastructure.
The test is scheduled for this summer with Ifremer. The system pairs submersibles and robotic surface vessels, applying space sector innovations to ocean challenges. Oceans, contested by belligerent powers, demand enhanced monitoring for national security, akin to satellite protection in orbit.
This effort addresses strategic needs, such as safeguarding ports and channels from hybrid warfare. Bubble Robotics positions itself as a pioneer in maritime exploration and defense.