Ilika CEO Graeme Purdy: ORKA deep-sea batteries open up defence and marine markets
Proactive - Interviews for investorsSummary
Ilica CEO Graham Purdy highlights the growing demand for underwater technologies, particularly in the context of national defense. The UK Commons Defense Committee recently emphasized the need for innovations to protect critical infrastructure such as pipelines and communication cables, which are considered vulnerable points in defense strategy. Ilica's new Orca brand aims to address this urgent market opportunity by developing marine environment batteries that can operate at depths of 6,000 meters without the need for heavy pressure vessels.
Purdy explains that the ability to equalize pressure around the battery cells allows for a more economically viable design, making it feasible to deploy batteries at significant depths. This capability is particularly appealing to customers seeking sovereign manufacturing solutions, as Ilica can produce these batteries independently from international supply chains. The company is currently exploring early commercialization opportunities and has received considerable interest since launching the Orca brand.
Looking ahead, Purdy notes that investors should watch for commercial collaborations and initial orders that could lead to product shipments and revenue growth. He indicates that discussions with potential customers are ongoing, and the company hopes to announce developments in this technology by the end of the financial year.
Show Notes
Ilika PLC Ilika PLC (AIM:IKA, OTCQX:ILIKF, FRA:I8A) CEO Graeme Purdy spoke with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion about the launch of its ORKA underwater battery brand and growing demand for energy storage in marine, defence and underwater infrastructure markets.
Purdy explains how ORKA offers an early route to commercialisation while Ilika continues developing its Goliath batteries for electric vehicles.
Designed to operate at depths of up to 6,000 metres, ORKA batteries can work without the heavy pressure vessels used to protect conventional battery packs. This could reduce weight and cost in deep-sea applications, including the protection of critical infrastructure such as pipelines and communication cables.
Ilika manufactures battery cells at its Southampton facility, offering a UK-based supply option for customers seeking greater supply chain resilience.
Following the brand launch, the company has reported significant interest from prospective customers. Purdy outlined the milestones investors should watch, including commercial collaborations, orders, product shipments and revenue growth.
Watch the full interview for the latest on ORKA’s commercial prospects and Ilika’s plans to advance the technology towards market.
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