As in all areas, developments in underwater autonomy are currently progressing rapidly. This involves the flexible and automated deployment of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) ranging from submarines to the integration of advanced lithium-ion batteries in order to improve or redefine reliability and operational readiness in maritime operations. These UAVs can be used for everything from reconnaissance missions and the transportation of special forces to the logistical supply of special forces after a landing.
Current developments by the U.S. Navy and the British Royal Navy in the field of underwater autonomy are expected to set new milestones in cooperation with the industry. Both navies are working together with the technology group L3Harris, among others. A few key innovations have already been achieved in the past, which are now ready for use across the entire fleet.
- In January 2023, the first company succeeded in launching and recovering an unmanned underwater vehicle from a moving U.S. Navy submarine. This speeds up operations and makes the submarine less vulnerable during this time. According to the manufacturer, this groundbreaking technology developed by L3Harris is a revolution for the deployment and recovery of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and enables smooth operations in real maritime environments.
- In November 2024, the first lithium-ion technology was approved by the U.S. Navy for use on submarines. L3Harris integrated the advanced lithium-ion battery system into unmanned platforms, improving range, safety and energy efficiency. This milestone is a proactive response to changing energy needs.
- First Torpedo Tube Launch and Recovery (TTL&R) technology in the UK Royal Navy in 2025, when the Royal Navy first introduced this technology.
For underwater autonomy, it offers runtimes of up to 20 hours and a range of 40 nautical miles with rechargeable NiMH batteries, while runtimes of 40 hours and 80 nautical miles are possible with lithium-ion batteries. (Graphic: L3H)
Pioneering hybrid AUV technology for superior usability
According to the manufacturer, the IVER AUVs from L3Harris set new standards for hybrid autonomous systems by combining the strengths of manned and unmanned systems. These AUVs are designed for superior operational capability in complex underwater environments.
Equipped with modular payloads, advanced autonomy and integrated sensors, the Iver AUV offers unparalleled situational awareness and flexibility. This hybrid design enables seamless collaboration between operators and unmanned platforms, ensuring the success of underwater autonomy missions in even the most demanding conditions.
The Iver AUVs are capable of operating in both shallow coastal waters and the deep sea. This adaptability is critical as the industry increasingly relies on integrated and hybrid mission models.
Advanced energy solutions thanks to lithium-ion technology
In November 2024 L3Harris reached an important milestone with the delivery of unmanned systems equipped with advanced lithium-ion battery technology. This breakthrough represents a significant advance in the endurance, reliability and safety of autonomous platforms.
Lithium-ion batteries offer higher energy density and longer life compared to conventional energy sources. This allows autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to carry out longer missions without any loss of performance.
The integration of lithium-ion technology into unmanned systems underlines the changing needs of customers. By prioritizing energy efficiency, the performance of the platforms is increased.
However, it is also crucial that the improved capabilities and greater flexibility go hand in hand with the greatest possible safety. After all, these AUVs are carried on board submarines, and fire is one of the greatest dangers of all. Therefore, the lithium-ion batteries must be absolutely safe.
Underwater autonomy - mastering the challenge of launch and recovery
Launch and recovery are still among the most complex operations in maritime robotics. A milestone was reached in July 2023. For the first time, an AUV was launched and recovered by a moving U.S. Navy submarine. According to the system manufacturer L3Harris, the first time ever worldwide.
By mastering launch and recovery techniques, the company has solved a key challenge for users and further improved the user-friendliness and effectiveness of its AUV platforms.
Vision for the future
These technologies will now be scaled up for the AUKUS submarines. The AUKUS security agreement between Australia, the UK and the USA provides for Australia to be equipped with conventionally armed but nuclear-powered hunting submarines (SSNs) to limit China's influence in the Indo-Pacific.
Australia plans to acquire up to eight of these submarines. Initially US Virginia class boats (from the 2030s) and later newly developed SSN AUKUS boats (from the 2040s). The boats are designed to be around 8,000 to 9,800 tons (submerged) and can operate for several decades without refueling. The development of the new SSN-AUKUS class is to be based on British design, initially in the UK and later in Australia (Adelaide).
The propulsion technology (reactors) and weapon systems are to come from the USA. However, Australia is initially to receive three to five US Virginia-class submarines as an interim solution in order to close the gaps until its own fleet is available with the SSN AUKUS class. These will then be used to replace the conventional Australian Collins-class submarines.
Manned-unmanned teaming will be a core capability of all newly built submarines. The AUVs can serve as a sensor ahead and reconnaissance platform as well as an effector or to transport and supply the special maritime forces deployed from the submarine.
Text: Editorial team / af
đ Who supplies L3Harris underwater batteries?
đ Kraken Robotics is a very likely supplier for Navy programs where L3Harris AUVs are integrated.
đ Whether they supply directly to L3Harris is not publicly confirmed - but technically absolutely plausible.
Unterwasserautonomie fĂŒr AufklĂ€rung und SpezialkrĂ€fte
