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BAE Systems has announced the successful completion of trials for its latest autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) creation, Herne. This extra-large AUV is designed to operate in the military domain and can conduct a range of manned-like missions, including anti-submarine warfare and covert surveillance. With the potential to revolutionize the way submarines operate, Herne represents an important step forward for defense contractors looking to capitalize on the growing demand for unmanned systems.
BAE Systems has developed an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) called Herne, designed for military operations. Herne represents a "game changer" in the underwater battlespace, offering customers cost-effective autonomy with increased endurance and efficiency. The AUV demonstrated successful pre-programmed intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions during trials. Herne has a range of up to 5,000 kilometers and can operate for up to 45 days at depths of 5,000 meters. The AUV features a large cargo space capable of carrying various mission-specific payloads, including underwater weapons and reconnaissance equipment.
BAE Systems, a leading defense contractor, has made a significant breakthrough in the development of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), announcing the successful completion of trials for its latest creation, Herne. This extra-large AUV is designed to operate in the military domain and is expected to revolutionize the way submarines conduct their operations.
According to BAE Systems' managing director, Scott Jamieson, Herne represents a "game changer" in the underwater battlespace, offering customers a cost-effective autonomous capability that provides them with more endurance, efficiency, and scale. The AUV can be deployed for various missions, including anti-submarine warfare and covert surveillance, making it an invaluable asset for military forces.
The trials conducted by BAE Systems were successful in demonstrating Herne's ability to conduct pre-programmed intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. This was a significant milestone for the development of autonomous underwater vehicles, as it marks one step closer to deploying AUVs that can operate independently, without human intervention.
Herne is an extra-large AUV that can fit into a standard 40-foot shipping container, making it easier to transport and deploy. The vessel has a range of up to 5,000 kilometers (about 3,100 miles) with up to 45 days endurance at depths of 5,000 meters (about 16,400 feet). Its battery-powered design allows for extended operations, while BAE Systems is also exploring alternative options, such as hydrogen fuel cells.
One of the key features of Herne is its large and flexible cargo space, capable of fitting a wide range of mission-specific payloads. This includes depth charges or other underwater weapons, which can be deployed to counter threats in real-time. The AUV's configuration makes it an ideal platform for conducting reconnaissance missions, gathering intelligence, and providing situational awareness.
The development of Herne is part of BAE Systems' ongoing efforts to stay at the forefront of autonomous technology. The company has partnered with Canadian outfit Cellula Robotics to continue development, with the expectation of delivering a working prototype by the end of 2026. This collaboration highlights the growing importance of private-public partnerships in advancing defense technologies.
Herne is not the only uncrewed submarine being developed in Britain. Earlier this year, the Royal Navy unveiled Excalibur, a similar-sized vessel designed to serve as a demonstration platform. While Excalibur will not perform operational duties, it will shape future concepts and demonstrate the feasibility of autonomous underwater vehicles for military operations.
The development of Herne and Excalibur follows recent efforts by the British government to enhance its defense capabilities in the underwater domain. The Ministry of Defence has announced plans to improve its sonar systems, including the modernization of Sonar 2087, which will enable operators to detect and track hostile submarines more effectively. This enhancement is part of the Royal Navy's ASW Spearhead program, aimed at detecting and tracking enemy vessels in the underwater domain.
In addition to Herne, BAE Systems' development of autonomous submarine technology marks an important step forward for defense contractors looking to capitalize on the growing demand for unmanned systems. The trend towards unmanned systems is expected to continue, driven by the need for cost-effective solutions that can provide military forces with a significant advantage in terms of endurance and efficiency.
As the UK government continues to prioritize defense spending and modernization efforts, the development of autonomous submarine technology will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of naval warfare. With Herne leading the way, BAE Systems is poised to capitalize on this trend, delivering cutting-edge solutions that will enhance the capabilities of military forces worldwide.
Related Information:
https://www.ethicalhackingnews.com/articles/BAE-Systems-Unveils-Autonomous-Military-Submarine-Capable-of-Conducting-a-Range-of-Manned-like-Missions-ehn.shtml
https://go.theregister.com/feed/www.theregister.com/2025/09/11/bae_systems_surfaces_autonomous_submarine/
Published: Thu Sep 11 07:18:38 2025 by llama3.2 3B Q4_K_M
