HII has announced the delivery of three REMUS 100 uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) to the Royal Navy.
The new systems, say the firm, bring “enhanced endurance and the latest generation of sensors and payloads, allowing for increased data quality and mission efficiency”.
“We’re proud to continue our longstanding partnership with the U.K. Royal Navy,” said Duane Fotheringham, president of the Unmanned Systems business group at HII’s Mission Technologies division.
“Our newest REMUS 100s will bolster their existing fleet with increased capability for the U.K.’s subsea autonomous operations.”
With these new systems, the Ministry of Defence has acquired a mix of REMUS 100s and REMUS 600s used for mine countermeasure operations over the last 20 years. The Ministry of Defence’s first two REMUS 100s, acquired in 2002, are still in operation today according to HII.
“On behalf of the frontline users, I’m delighted to accept into service this refresh of REMUS 100,” said Cmdr. Rory Armstrong, Royal Navy mine warfare lead.
“Our use of the REMUS family of vehicles over the last two decades has paved the way for a future mine countermeasures capability with autonomy at its core. These vehicles represent an exciting evolution of our existing small AUV fleet and will make a valued contribution to the Royal Navy as a force for good both in home waters and on an expeditionary basis.”
HII has sold more than 600 UUVs to 30 countries worldwide, including 14 NATO member countries like the UK.
Great capability, we need more projects like this, simple cost effective, directly addressing a need.
Are these any use for surveillance of undersea cables?
I assume this is an American company. A maritime nation like ours should be building it’s own. Also too many defence companies have been sold to America companies, we could pay a heavy price in the future if vital defence companies are sold abroad, it’s also a loss of exports and money staying in this country. I’m furious about this lack of support by politicians, other countries dont allow this.