Vermeer, a provider of vision-based navigation technology, has formed a strategic partnership with Sentry Operations to develop an integrated solution for unmanned systems operating in GPS-degraded or GPS-denied environments. The companies said the collaboration combines Vermeer’s AI-powered perception stack with Sentry’s precision-effects and terminal-guidance technology.
The partnership targets a growing operational need for U.S. and allied forces as electronic-warfare threats increase. Vermeer CEO Brian Streem said the navigation technology has already been validated in combat scenarios in Ukraine. “Sentry’s technology adds essential accuracy and survivability,” Streem said, adding that the combined system is designed to deliver the autonomy required for next-generation unmanned platforms.
The integrated solution is aimed at drone manufacturers, defence primes and government customers seeking alternatives to traditional GPS-dependent systems. The companies said early demonstrations have shown improvements in mission resilience and navigation accuracy across full mission profiles. Sentry Operations president Jim Donnelly said the collaboration addresses vulnerabilities in legacy systems and is intended to enable unmanned platforms to deliver precision effects in contested environments.
Both companies operate within New York’s innovation ecosystem. Vermeer is a 2019 alumnus of the GENIUS NY accelerator, while Sentry Operations is based at the INSPYRE Innovation Hub in Syracuse. GENIUS NY director Kara Jones said the partnership underscores the region’s role in supporting defence technology development.
