Advancing the Future of Autonomous Mine-Hunting Technology
The Royal Navy has reached a key milestone in autonomous mine-hunting with its first trial of an uncrewed boat from a commercial vessel, showcasing Thales technology.
A recent trial at the Firth of Clyde, Scotland, marked a significant milestone for the Royal Navy’s Mine & Threat Exploration Group. The Royal Navy Motor Boat (RNMB) Apollo, a small uncrewed vessel designed to detect and neutralize mine threats, was successfully launched from SD Northern River, a commercial ship serving as a ‘platform of opportunity.’ This trial showcased the rapid deployment capability of autonomous mine-hunting technology in real-world conditions.
Apollo managed to detect exercise mines, even in notoriously challenging locations, demonstrating its advanced detection capabilities. Conducted in difficult water depths and coastal currents, the trial underscored the potential for Maritime Mine Counter-Measure (MMCM) technology to be swiftly integrated into operational fleets.
A Groundbreaking Collaboration
Andy Lapsley, DE&S Mine-Hunting Capability (MHC) Team Leader, emphasized the importance of the trial:
This is the result of years of hard work and collaboration by the MHC team, and it demonstrates our commitment to advancing mine counter-measure technology. We’re not just testing equipment; we’re building an innovative, flexible capability that will play a key role in safeguarding the UK’s maritime interests.
The Apollo was manufactured under a contract with Thales, and following the successful trial, it will undergo retrofit and upgrades before being delivered to the Royal Navy in late 2025. The MMCM programme, valued at €430 million, has already created over 200 jobs across the UK, underscoring its impact on both defence and the economy.
A New Era in Naval Operations
This trial represented the first successful integration of MMCM technology onto a commercial vessel, a crucial step that demonstrates the potential of using such platforms as ‘floating bases’ for certain operations. Its success paves the way for future deployments, with Thales playing a key role in evolving maritime operations.
The Maritime Mine Counter-Measure (MMCM) programme has advanced significantly, bringing advanced autonomous mine-hunting equipment closer to operational readiness for the Royal Navy and French Marine Nationale. Managed by the Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation (OCCAR), this programme aims to enhance the naval mine warfare capabilities of both nations using cutting-edge technology.
Commander Daniel Herridge, Commanding Officer of the Royal Navy’s Mine & Threat Exploration Group, commented:
This milestone reinforces our commitment to modernizing mine counter-measure technology and integrating it into our operations. The Mine & Threat Exploitation Group is proud to continue supporting the enterprise and driving forward these trials, which are critical to advancing our capabilities and safeguarding the UK’s interests.
Philippe Commarmond, Director of Thales’ International Mine Warfare Sector, added:
The MMCM programme is the result of an ambitious vision set by the UK and France back in 2015 to transform naval mine warfare. We are proud to be part of this journey, which is now positioning both nations at the forefront of autonomous maritime systems.
What’s Next?
This trial marks a significant leap forward in the Royal Navy’s mission to enhance mine counter-measure technology and operational flexibility. As the programme progresses, the integration of these innovative systems will continue to shape the future of naval mine warfare, ensuring the UK remains at the cutting edge of maritime security.
Looking ahead, the MMCM team will continue refining autonomous capabilities, ensuring they are ready for operational deployment in the coming years. With the next phase of trials and retrofitting of Apollo already underway, this breakthrough represents just the beginning of what promises to be a new era in autonomous maritime operations.
