French multinational Thales’ U.K. subsidiary has delivered the first of several autonomous mine-hunting systems to the Royal Navy under a $239.3 million contract with the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence. The deal also forms part of a $468.2 million joint U.K.-France initiative managed by the Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation.
Delivered under the Defence Equipment & Support-led Mine Hunting Capability Programme, the Ariadne drone can locate and counter sea mines faster and more accurately. The 12-meter-long unmanned surface vessel could be deployed from a harbor or any ship using the Thales Towed Synthetic Aperture Multiviews system.
According to Phil Siveter, chief executive and chairman of Thales in the UK, the mine-hunting solution will play a vital role in protecting Britain’s national security.
“With the introduction of artificial intelligence and advanced sensor technology, this innovation represents a new era in maritime defense technology and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that enhance the capabilities of our defense forces,” the chief executive said.
The USV replaces the Royal Navy’s traditional strategy of deploying a sailor to a mine area to address such threats.
“This project contributes to the growth and prosperity of our nation and will strengthen U.K. security through enhanced maritime operations,” said Rear Adm. Steve McCarthy, director of maritime environment at DE&S.
In 2023, Thales collaborated with the French and British navies to explore the potential of an unmanned system to remotely locate and neutralize underwater threats.