Thales and BAE Systems collaborate to provide a new advanced intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance mast
© BAE Systems
The proliferation of autonomous platforms – from uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) to extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicles (XLUUVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (XLAUVs) – is reshaping how hybrid navies operate in contested waters where crewed platforms face increased risk. But these platforms are only as effective as their sensors, and delivering the situational awareness that operators need, remains one of the most pressing challenges.
A proven partnership, a new frontier
Thales and BAE Systems are working together to address that challenge, collaborating on the integration of their advanced sensor system, with the intent do demonstrate it on the Herne XLAUV platform in 2027.
Transforming uncrewed, autonomous platforms
At the heart of this collaboration is a new intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance [ISR] mast system from Thales. Drawing on more than 100 years of optronics design, the system is currently in development at our world-leading optronic site in Glasgow. Designed for uncrewed, autonomous applications, it is a stealthy, low-mass solution whose modular architecture allows users to customise sensor payloads to meet specific operational requirements.
The system is configurable for a range of payloads beyond visual sensing, including electronic warfare, communications and navigation systems to name but a few, delivering real-time intelligence to enhance mission effectiveness. It is also platform agnostic and scalable, whilst the Herne XLAUV is payload agnostic. The collaboration would bring together two advanced technologies – demonstrating unparalleled stealth in contested environments, through exceptionally rapid 360-degree image capture, minimising above-water exposure time - a critical success factor for operations in waters where counter-detection poses a direct threat to mission success.
“In a domain where the ability to detect, classify and respond to threats faster than an adversary can mean the difference between mission success and failure, the collaboration between Thales and BAE Systems signals a shared commitment to ensuring that uncrewed platforms are equipped with the sharpest possible eyes from beneath the waves, supporting the Hybrid Navy approach."
Tommy Cowan - Sea Business Sector Director
Decades of expertise in the subsurface domain
Thales and BAE Systems have worked together on the "eyes" of subsurface platforms since the Valiant-class submarine in 1966.
Now they will harness their combined expertise to transform sensor systems for the next generation of uncrewed platforms.