Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. (NASDAQ: OMEX), a global leader in ocean exploration and critical mineral resource development, has announced the successful deployment of two Autonomous Benthic Mini Landers (ABMLs) in the Cook Islands’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This achievement marks the first deep-sea deployment of custom-designed ABML systems engineered by Germany-based Develogic GmbH for Odyssey.
The two ABMLs are now positioned approximately 4,900 meters below sea level, where they will operate autonomously for more than a year, continuously collecting vital environmental data. This effort represents a significant step in advancing deep-sea scientific understanding and supporting responsible management of seabed mineral resources in the Cook Islands.
Expanding Knowledge of the Deep-Sea Environment
Each ABML is equipped with an advanced suite of oceanographic sensors designed to measure key environmental parameters, including turbidity, conductivity, oxygen levels, temperature, sound, and pressure. These in situ measurements will contribute to long-term datasets essential for understanding benthic ecosystems in the South Pacific.
The data collected will be shared with the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) and released publicly to ensure transparency and accessibility for researchers and policymakers. The program directly supports the SBMA’s mission to enhance environmental knowledge and guide responsible management of the Cook Islands’ polymetallic nodule resources.
“The successful ABML launches represent a tangible step forward—government, science, and industry working together to produce open, high-quality data to support sound decision-making for ocean resources,” said Mark Gordon, Chairman and CEO of Odyssey Marine Exploration. “The Cook Islands have prioritized responsible management of one of the world’s largest polymetallic nodule resources. Drawing on decades of subsea experience, Odyssey brings a proven, proprietary approach—combining advanced data methods with purpose-built technology.”
Collaboration Across Science, Industry, and Government
The deployment was completed on October 7, 2025, from a research vessel operating within the Cook Islands’ EEZ. Representatives from the SBMA and the Cook Islands National Environment Service joined international scientists aboard the vessel to observe the operation.
Recovery of the systems is scheduled for early 2026, to be conducted by the RV Anuanua Moana, operated by Kiva Marine Ltd., a subsidiary of Ocean Minerals, LLC (OML). The mission underscores the growing collaboration among scientific, governmental, and private sector partners to enhance understanding of the deep ocean.
Hans Smit, CEO of Moana Minerals Ltd., an OML subsidiary, emphasized the broader significance of the initiative:
“We are pleased to see the growth in ocean research and to be collaborating with Odyssey on the ABML program in the Pacific, particularly within the Cook Islands. Each expedition enhances our collective knowledge of Marae Moana’s deep-sea environment. It also supports informed stewardship that maintains a balance between ecological protection and opportunities benefiting Cook Islanders.”
Commitment to Responsible Ocean Resource Development
Odyssey’s ABML deployment aligns with the Cook Islands’ ongoing strategy to responsibly explore and manage its seabed mineral wealth—considered one of the world’s most promising sources of polymetallic nodules. These nodules contain critical minerals such as nickel, cobalt, manganese, and copper, essential for global energy transition technologies, including electric vehicle batteries and renewable power systems.
By combining advanced data collection with open scientific collaboration, Odyssey aims to ensure that deep-sea exploration proceeds in a transparent, informed, and sustainable manner. The publicly available datasets generated by the ABML program will enable regulators, scientists, and communities to evaluate the environmental conditions of the seafloor and support evidence-based decision-making for future resource development.
A Long-Term Vision for the Cook Islands
In addition to the ABML initiative, Odyssey maintains investment partnerships with two Cook Islands seabed minerals exploration license holders—Cook Islands Cobalt (CIC) and Ocean Minerals, LLC (OML), whose subsidiary Moana Minerals holds a license for exploration. These collaborations reflect Odyssey’s commitment to aligning its research, technology, and financial investments with long-term value creation for Cook Islanders.
By integrating rigorous environmental research with responsible commercial exploration, Odyssey seeks to demonstrate that deep-sea resource development can advance both national interests and global sustainability goals.
About Odyssey Marine Exploration
Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. (NASDAQ: OMEX) is a pioneering ocean exploration company with more than three decades of experience in subsea discovery, resource validation, and project development. The company focuses on the sustainable advancement of critical mineral resources from the seafloor, supporting industries essential to food production, renewable energy, and technology innovation.
Odyssey’s portfolio includes subsea phosphate deposits for fertilizer production and polymetallic nodule projects for battery metals. Through its proprietary technologies, marine operations expertise, and global partnerships, Odyssey works with governments and rights holders to responsibly explore and develop undersea resources.
The company’s mission is grounded in scientific collaboration, regulatory compliance, and environmental stewardship—ensuring that exploration activities contribute to a better understanding of marine ecosystems while addressing pressing global challenges such as food security, energy transition, and technological innovation.