Harley Surface-Effect-Ships (H-SES)
Patented air-cushion vessels: 45–100 knots, 70%+ fuel savings, DoD #1 ranked.
Executive Summary
Harley Surface-Effect-Ships (H-SES) manufactures patented twin-hull air-cushion vessels achieving 45—100 knots with 70%+ fuel savings versus conventional displacement ships. Advanced composite construction delivers 40%+ weight reduction over aluminum while enabling 100+ year operational lifespans. Modular design supports 15-meter to 200-meter configurations across commercial ferry, fast cargo, workboats, military, and luxury yacht markets.
The Problem
The global maritime industry relies on displacement-hull vessels constrained to 20—30 knots, consuming enormous fuel loads with limited operational flexibility. The U.S. has lost over 90% of its commercial shipbuilding capacity while defense modernization demands next-generation high-speed platforms. No existing shipbuilder offers a commercially viable vessel combining 45—100 knot speed, 70% fuel savings, and composite longevity.
The Solution
H-SES's patented air-dam SES design traps a pressurized air cushion between twin composite hulls, dramatically reducing hydrodynamic drag. The technology has been validated over 30+ years through DARPA-funded full-scale prototyping, NASA/Langley and Stevens Labs testing, and a DoD #1 ranking across 14 mobility technologies. AI-enhanced digital manufacturing and modular production enable scalable output from a purpose-built shipyard.
Strategic Advantages
Patented SES hull design with 30+ years of accumulated performance data. DoD #1 ranking across 14 mobility technologies. Massive legislative tailwinds: Jones Act, SHIPS Act (25% shipyard + 33—40.5% vessel credits), Maritime Action Plan, and Presidential Maritime Executive Order.
Market Opportunity
The global marine industry exceeds $116B annually. H-SES targets high-speed ferries ($3.25B), military/naval ($87.1B), luxury yachts ($31.74B), and fast cargo ($2B+). Navy Ship Operating Support budgets alone exceed $448M annually. Total addressable market exceeds $300B across all segments.
Execution Readiness
TRL 6—7 with DARPA-validated full-scale prototype. Gen-4 vessels under construction. AI-enhanced manufacturing infrastructure in design. Experienced team with decades of SES, composite, and defense program expertise.
Market Focus / Deployment
Logistics: initial focus is on two autonomous shipping container vessel sizes. A 165’ ship that is capable of transporting 12x40’ containers at 60 mph at low fuel burn and a 200’ ship that is capable of transporting 24x40’ containers at 60 mph at low fuel burn. This would create a direct, scheduled automated transport line to and from North, Central and South America with a transport time of less than 24 hours per delivery. Military: The US is in demand of highly innovative technologies and systems for military readiness, deployment and efficiency. H-SES is actively pursuing these channels.
Key Facts
- ▸Patented SES hull design with 30+ years of accumulated performance data
- ▸DoD #1 ranking across 14 mobility technologies
- ▸DARPA-validated full-scale prototype; Gen-4 vessels under construction
- ▸Composite Kevlar construction with AI-enhanced manufacturing
Market Opportunity
$116B+ global marine industry; $100B+ Navy modernization
Financial Detail — NC-9 Data Room
Detailed financial projections, valuation, and capital requirements for H-SES are available to qualified investors in the NC-9 Data Room.
Investor InquiryCross-Venture Synergies
- Shared composite manufacturing with HVH and SPF