Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB), the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), and France's Exail have launched a 17-metre vessel equipped for mine countermeasures (MCM) naval operations.
The vessel features autonomous control systems and MCM technologies, along with integrated sensors.
"Designed to execute the full range of MCM operations, the vessel's systems will facilitate the scanning, detection, classification, and neutralisation of underwater mines with unmatched precision and efficiency, significantly enhancing naval forces’ defence capabilities," said ADSB.
Following the launch of the demonstrator platform, the partners will initiate the second phase of the naval programme, which will see ADSB and Exail jointly develop a 12.5-metre inspection vessel, equipped with TII’s marine autonomy system and a towed sonar system, in the UAE.
"This milestone marks a significant advancement in the entities’ shared commitment to developing modular, autonomous platforms, capable of performing complex naval missions with minimal human intervention," added ADSB.