Maritime Robotics and Eelume launches new mine hunting USV

Maritime Robotics, Norway based USV developer and member of Ocean Autonomy Cluster, and Eelume, Norway based AUV developer, are collaborating on a new mine countermeasures solution that combines existing maritime platforms with autonomous systems to increase operational effectiveness. The new vessel, Eelume WP960, is an unmanned surface vessel (USV) that aligns perfectly with the Norwegian Armed Forces’ standard vessel strategy.

It serves as a carrier platform for a swarm of Eelume S All-Terrain autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Biodrone, Norway based provider of AI solution, will also contribute AI-based automatic object recognition to identify mines in sensor data collected by the vessels. Thiese all provides Norwegian defence, research, and civilian operators with a flexible and efficient platform for coordinated underwater operations and mine clearance.

🎤 “The solution is built on a “system of systems” approach, where Eelume’s autonomous underwater robots and Blueye Robotics’ remotely operated drones interact with autonomous systems from Maritime Robotics. The vessel is equipped with autonomous solutions in an “Optionally unmanned” configuration, meaning it can operate fully autonomously without crew, or be manned when needed”, says Thomas Nygaard of Eelume.

WP960 is based on the WP960WB hull, developed by Westplast in collaboration with KACE AS and produced at KACE’s shipyard in Fosnavåg, Sunnmøre.

🎤 “The collaboration between KACE and Eelume marks the start of an exciting new segment. Combining KACE’s long experience with robust WP vessels and Eelume’s advanced autonomous systems provides a solid foundation for the solutions of the future”, says Geir-Arne Bøe, CEO of KACE AS.

Eelume, Blueye Robotics, and Maritime Robotics are members of both NORDSEC Nordic Defence and Security Cluster and Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Like Biodrone, they also participate in the Defence Conference and are part of the FI Ocean Space Incubator.

📃📷 Source : Ocean Autonomy Cluster