UK’s Royal Navy tests underwater robot to protect critical undersea infrastructure

UK officials believe that the ROV which was designed in collaboration with several other industry partners such as Alford Technologies, Atlantas Marine, Sonardyne and ECS Special Projects, has the potential to become a huge asset in securing the deep sea.

“This technology would be a valuable toolset for keeping our Armed Forces safe whilst providing the public with value for money,” DSTL explosives engineer John highlighted.

Keeping marine infrastructure safe

The commercially available ROV was reportedly upgraded with specialized systems developed and integrated by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, enabling it to detect unexploded ordnance and remotely deploy explosive charges for safe and controlled neutralization.

By detecting and disarming underwater explosives that endanger both vessels and the divers involved in removing them, the robot eliminates the need for direct human involvement, providing a more secure and practical way to clear hazards from the seabed.

Equipped with specialized underwater navigation systems, the robot can be launched either from a ship or shoreline. Once deployed, it feeds back real-time video and sonar data to operators who can assess the threat and remotely carry out neutralization tasks.

“This unique capability with its sensors, tools and cameras will give operators a real time ability to deal with these underwater hazards in a safe, effective and efficient way,” engineer John explained in a press release.

Shaping defense and security

According to the agency, the robot can operate at depths beyond the reach of human divers and remain functional there for significantly longer periods. “Its mission is to deliver operational advantage at pace, shape the defense and security landscape, prepare for the future, leverage and influence internationally,” DSTL stated.

This ability makes it particularly suited for extended missions in deep or hazardous waters, including areas where undersea cables and pipelines, critical arteries of modern infrastructure, are vulnerable to attack or accidental damage.

“DSTL gives the UK a battle-winning edge across science, technology, cyber and information,” the agency continued. “It offers expert advice allied to inside knowledge, and underpinned by deep operational understanding of defense and security needs.”

The newly developed technology and systems will work along with other robots to scan the seabed and respond as soon as an object of concern is detected. Additionally, the robot can be utilized multiple times since it isn’t destroyed during operations.

This provides the public with better value for money while also generating economic benefits through industry collaboration, supporting numerous specialist roles across the sector.

Field trials have already taken place across multiple locations, including Horsea Island in Portsmouth, Portland Harbour, South Wales, and even Norway, demonstrating the robot’s performance in varied underwater conditions.