Jeff Smith, Subsea & Seabed Warfare Consultant

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Jeff is a seasoned innovator with a deep passion for advancing undersea warfare through cutting-edge technology and strategic vision. With decades of experience, he excels at driving growth and innovation in autonomy, robotics, and unmanned systems. Jeff brings unmatched expertise in subsea and seabed warfare, honed through leadership roles at industry pioneers like Saab, BAE Systems, and Riptide Autonomous Solutions, which he founded and guided to acquisition. His career reflects a commitment to shaping the future of defense and undersea exploration through bold strategies, technical ingenuity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

• Founded Riptide Autonomous Solutions, a disruptive force in the unmanned undersea vehicle (UUV) market, successfully leading the company to acquisition by BAE Systems in just four years.

• As VP/GM for Autonomous and Undersea Systems at Saab, Inc., established the AUS Division, securing over $300M in long-term programs, building state-of-the-art facilities, and assembling a top-tier team within three years.

• As a recognized subject matter expert in undersea warfare, regularly participates in high-profile war games, study panels, and technical efforts shaping the future of undersea and seabed warfare.

• Holds multiple patents across robotics, electro-optical systems, subsea battery safety, biomedical devices, and other technologies, demonstrating a career-long commitment to advancing groundbreaking innovations.

• Serves on the Board of Directors for Aretê Associates and several non-profit boards focused on defense, innovation, and blue technology, including the Undersea Technology Innovation Consortium (UTIC), contributing to the advancement of collaboration and innovation within the industry.

VP / GM, Autonomous & Undersea Systems

Saab, Inc.

Jun 2021 – Sep 2024

Chief Scientist & Director, UUV Systems

BAE Systems, Inc.

Jun 2019  – May 2021

President & CEO

Riptide Autonomous Solutions

Jan 2015 – May 2019

Program Director / Chief Operating Officer

Bluefin Robotics Corp.

May  2008 – Jan 2015

Program / Sr. Program Manager

General Dynamics AIS 

Nov 2004 – May 2008

• MBA, Management of Technology, RPI Lally School of Management - 2001
• MS, Mechanical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute - 1999
• BS, Mechanical Engineering , Worcester Polytechnic Institute - 1993

Member - Board of Directors

Arete Associates

Member  - Board of Directors 

Undersea Technology Innovation Consortium

President - Board of Directors

Blue Venture Forum

Member - Board of Directors

NDIA New England