Arctic Hunter Uncrewed Anti-Submarine Vessel Launched in Norway

Norwegian company Kongsberg Maritime has launched the Arctic Hunter uncrewed surface vessel (USV).

The company said the new boat was designed for rapid integration into hybrid fleets, where autonomous platforms operate alongside conventional ships.

The USV was developed from a civilian Arctic-class vessel under the UK’s Type 92 ASW program. Its primary mission is to search for and track submarines in the challenging conditions of the High North.

The vessel’s autonomous systems have already received official certification from classification society DNV and the Norwegian Maritime Authority. This confirms the safety and reliability of operating a large uncrewed vessel in open waters.

The vessel will be equipped with Thales UK’s submarine-hunting sonar, secure communications systems and available deck space for additional equipment.

Balaena Maritime will carry out serial production of the hulls at its shipyard in Birkenhead, UK.

The vessels will then be fitted with military systems, with plans to bring them into service by the end of the decade.

Source: Militaryni