BAE Systems’ Herne XLAUV set to hunt for underwater intelligence
A Herne model, alongside other BAE offerings including Archerfish, at Euronaval. (Photo: author)
The Herne is modular, highly configurable underwater autonomous platform, with potential for both ISR missions in the short term and self-determined assistance surveillance later.
BAE Systems’ new Herne XLAUV (Extra Large Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) is scheduled to begin in-water demonstrations on 22 November 2024.
The XLAUV, which has only been in development since 2023, has been designed to extend the underwater data-gathering potential of navies, using autonomy and a modular effector capability to improve their situational awareness.
Shephard recently spoke to BAE Systems business development manager Tim O’Neill at Euronaval in Paris about what the company hoped Herne would deliver.
“Most navies have torpedoes, but firing a torpedo against an underwater vehicle takes you into the territory of using a sledgehammer to crack a walnut,” he said.
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 2 free stories per week
- Daily news round-up email service
- Access to all Decisive Edge email newsletters
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Anduril awarded $642 million counter-drone contract with US Marine Corps]()
Anduril awarded $642 million counter-drone contract with US Marine Corps
The contract will see counter-small uncrewed aerial systems (CsUAS) installed at bases, with the initial contract covering site survey and engineering services as well as some system procurement. Work is expected to be completed over the next ten years.
-
![Canada awards Seaspan a construction contract for the first Coast Guard’s Polar Icebreaker]()
Canada awards Seaspan a construction contract for the first Coast Guard’s Polar Icebreaker
CCGS Arpatuuq will be the first heavy cold weather vessel entirely built in Canada.
-
![Denmark places $184 million contract for Naval Strike Missiles]()
Denmark places $184 million contract for Naval Strike Missiles
The missiles are being purchased through a government-to-government sale with Norway and will be operated from Iver Huitfeldt-class frigates.
-
![Navantia combat systems selected for Chinese-built Thai LPD]()
Navantia combat systems selected for Chinese-built Thai LPD
The landing platform dock, believed to be the largest naval vessel that China has exported, will see the Chinese-built vessel embrace Western technology.
