Britain Picks Ocean Infinity for £90 Million Sub-Hunting Drone Network
A commercial survey-fleet operator will own and run the Royal Navy's first uncrewed submarine-surveillance network in the North Atlantic, with a 2027 operating target.
A commercial survey-fleet operator will own and run the Royal Navy's first uncrewed submarine-surveillance network in the North Atlantic, with a 2027 operating target.
Britain selected Ocean Infinity Solutions for a framework that paves the way for £90 million ($120 million) of investment in North Atlantic submarine surveillance, the Ministry of Defence announced Nov. 10. The network, called Atlantic Net, will combine uncrewed systems, sensors and artificial intelligence to detect Russian submarines and protect undersea cables and energy networks.
The service is meant to give submarine-hunting warships and Astute-class submarines earlier warning and a clearer picture below the surface, the ministry said. Atlantic Net is the first phase of Atlantic Bastion, the Royal Navy's plan for a hybrid force of crewed and uncrewed vessels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Atlantic Net?
Atlantic Net is a planned network of uncrewed systems, sensors and AI in the North Atlantic. The UK Ministry of Defence says it will help the Royal Navy detect Russian submarines and protect undersea cables and energy networks.
Who will build and run it?
The ministry selected Ocean Infinity Solutions, a Hampshire-based company, under a framework announced Nov. 10. UK Defence Journal reported that commercial providers will own and operate the platforms under naval oversight.
How much is Britain spending?
The ministry says the framework paves the way for £90 million of investment, about $120 million, and will support almost 200 skilled jobs.
When will it be operating?
Defence minister Luke Pollard said the aim is to have Atlantic Net operational from 2027, according to Navy Lookout. The ministry's written release gives no in-service date.
How does it relate to Atlantic Bastion?
Atlantic Net is the first phase of Atlantic Bastion, the Royal Navy's plan for a hybrid force of crewed and uncrewed vessels. UK Defence Journal reported that a second phase would use government-owned Type 92 uncrewed surface vessels and Type 93 uncrewed underwater vehicles.
What does Ocean Infinity bring?
Navy Lookout noted that the company runs a remote operations centre in Southampton and a fleet of 14 Armada ships, and that its vessel Armada 86-06 took part in pre-qualifying Atlantic Net trials earlier this year.
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Marcus Schuler
Marcus Schuler edits BattlePolicy, a daily defense-technology brief connecting the companies and capabilities behind modern war to the contest among Europe, the US, Russia, and China.