UK presents ultra-large autonomous submarine

BAE Systems has successfully launched Herne, an ultra-large autonomous submarine (XLAUV) designed for military use.

Here's What We Know

The vessel is designed to monitor and protect underwater infrastructure, conduct undersea warfare and perform covert surveillance tasks. It is based on the Nautomate platform, which is a high-quality autonomous military control system for naval surface and underwater vehicles.

Prior to this, BAE worked with Canadian company Cellula Robotics to build a demonstration configuration of the Herne XLAUV and enable it to move from initial concept to actual deployment and testing over an 11-month period.

"Herne is a game changer in the underwater battlespace. It will provide our customers with a cost-effective autonomous capability that will enable a wide range of missions, ending the reliance on manned platforms, protecting people from harm and increasing endurance," said Scott Jamieson, director of BAE.

After the demonstration, the XLAUV will undergo further testing in accordance with customer requirements.

The UK manufacturer has trialled its Nautomate technology on the Herne submarine following successful trials on a surface vessel earlier this year. The Nautomate can be integrated into both new and existing platforms to provide autonomous capabilities that can be useful during hazardous missions.

In addition, it is vessel-independent and has an open architecture that is compatible with vessels ranging in length from 6 metres to 50 metres. This technology can be used in a number of missions, such as intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance, as well as for maritime security and anti-submarine warfare.

Source: BAE