Kraken Robotics (TSX-V:$PNG) has announced that its board of directors will be joined by the United States Navy Vice Admiral Michael J. Connor. Connor’s career spans 35 years and include such prestigious posts as command of the USS SEAWOLF, Submarine Squadron Eight, and Undersea Forces in the Western Pacific and the Arabian Gulf. Connor also held titles of Commander, United States Submarine Forces, Commander, Submarine Forces Atlantic and Commander, Allied Submarine Command. His tenure as commander of U.S. submarine forces ran from September 2012 until September 2015.

“Over the past several years, Kraken has methodically built an impressive portfolio of undersea sensor and robotics technology. During that same time, they have assembled a dynamic leadership and engineering team that understand and respect the transformational impact that robotics will play in the maritime industry of the future. I truly look forward to working with my fellow Board members in building the company,” said Vice Admiral Connor.

Connor also led the first robotic undersea system in the US Navy Submarine Force, which included the historic milestone of the first operational deployment and recovery of an unmanned underwater vehicle from a submarine. His influence was key in shifting the Navy towards operations based on large numbers of inexpensive vehicles.

Connor has also written large amounts on the future of undersea warfare doctrine and is frequently sought after as a speaker on such subjects. He currently CEO of ThayerMahan Inc., a company he founded in the United States to effectively and efficiently monitor ocean activity using autonomous systems.

Karl Kenny, Kraken CEO & President said, “We are delighted to welcome Admiral Connor onboard the Kraken team. Mike is recognized globally as one of the foremost authorities in undersea operations. He has a deep understanding of undersea robotics and autonomous systems and the value they provide to the maritime industry. The entire Kraken team is honoured and privileged to learn from his knowledge and insights.”

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