BAE Systems Advance Underwater Tech with the XLAUV ‘Herne’

BAE Systems has announced the successful completion of additional tests for its large unmanned underwater vehicle (XLAUV) "Herne" earlier this month. The trials evaluated the system’s ability to execute a pre-programmed intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) mission, leveraging its Nautomate High-Specification Autonomous Military Control System. These tests mark a continuation of Herne’s development following initial evaluations earlier this year.

Origins and Development Path

The Herne platform is a collaboration between BAE Systems and Canadian robotics firm Cellula Robotics. Initially developed as a contender for the Royal Navy’s CETUS XLAUV project, the system was not selected. However, BAE and Cellula opted to self-fund its further development due to strong potential in the global export market. The prototype was completed in just 11 months, demonstrating a rapid pace of innovation.

Despite its initial setback, Herne is evolving into a versatile autonomous platform aimed at monitoring underwater infrastructure and supporting submarine operations. BAE Systems cites promising applications for military customers worldwide.

Technical Innovations and Capabilities

Herne is designed with a modular framework, enabling customization based on mission requirements. Its key technical features include:

• Flexible Mission Modules: Mission-specific payloads can be integrated for varying operational needs.
• Advanced Propulsion: Dual redundant electric motors provide a maximum speed of 8 knots, with a sustained operational speed of 3 knots for long-duration missions.
• Long-Endurance Operations: The vehicle can operate autonomously for up to 10 days without recharging.
• Exceptional Depth Range: It can dive to a maximum depth of 3,000 meters, making it suitable for deep-sea operations.

Strategic Applications

Herne’s modularity and endurance offer a wide range of operational uses, from reconnaissance to infrastructure protection and submarine support. The XLAUV is designed to reduce human risk by automating dangerous underwater tasks, while its endurance extends operational reach.

Scott Jamieson, Managing Director of Maritime Services at BAE Systems, described Herne as a breakthrough innovation:

“Herne is a game-changer in the underwater battlespace. It delivers cost-efficient autonomous capabilities for a wide range of missions, keeps people out of harm’s way, and enhances endurance.”

Export Potential and Market Prospects

BAE Systems is positioning Herne to capitalize on the growing demand for autonomous underwater systems. With its modular design and long endurance, the platform is expected to appeal to international customers seeking cost-effective, versatile solutions for underwater defense and surveillance missions.

Future Vision

As global defense strategies increasingly incorporate autonomous systems, the Herne XLAUV is poised to play a significant role in reshaping underwater operations. With its robust capabilities and adaptability, Herne aligns with the military's evolving needs for advanced, unmanned systems to tackle complex challenges in marine environments.