BAE Systems, ASV demo unmanned boat technology

Technology that allows naval personnel to perform high-speed reconnaissance and remote surveillance using unmanned vessels has been demonstrated by BAE Systems.

The tests, in partnership with ASV Ltd., were conducted at a site near Portsmouth Naval Base and involved a modified boat.

The boat is capable of operating autonomously on a pre-planned route or by remote control for up to 12 hours, up to 40 km away from its parent ship, BAE Systems said.

The technology is designed for use on rigid inflatable boats and features an array of sensors, including navigation radar, 360-degree panoramic infrared cameras and a laser range finder.

"This technology delivers an extremely robust and fast-moving unmanned boat that is able to perform a number of surveillance and reconnaissance roles, even when operating at high speed or in choppy water," BAE Systems Product and Training Services Director Les Gregory said.

"BAE Systems has a wealth of experience in the development and integration of unmanned systems. The successful demonstration highlights the enhanced capability this technology offers. While other programmes are primarily designed for larger, slower boats to tackle mine counter-measure scenarios, this system provides an extremely maneuverable multi-role vessel."

"The algorithms we're developing with BAE Systems allow the boat to perform complex missions and navigate through waters avoiding collisions," said Dan Hook, Managing Director for ASV.

"This gives it the flexibility and sophistication to operate in a number of different tactical roles, whether it's patrolling areas of interest, providing surveillance and reconnaissance ahead of manned missions, or protecting larger ships in the fleet."