AUSA 2024: Quantum-Systems targets big 2025 with UAS developments
Quantum-Systems has been upgrading its UAS family, with new versions of the Vector, Reliant and Twister drones set for release throughout 2025.
Bourbon has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Automated Ships to support the development of an autonomous, fully-automated prototype vessel for offshore operations, in collaboration with project lead Kongsberg.
The vessel, named Hrönn, will be a light-duty, offshore utility ship for the offshore energy, hydrographic, scientific and offshore fish-farming industries.
The monohulled vessel of steel construction will be capable of also being used as a remotely operated vehicle and autonomous underwater vehicle support ship and standby vessel, providing firefighting support to an offshore platform working in cooperation with manned vessels.
Kongsberg will deliver all major marine equipment required for the design, construction and operation of Hrönn, including systems for dynamic positioning and navigation, satellite and position reference, marine automation and communication. Its vessel control systems including K-Pos dynamic positioning, K-Chief automation and K-Bridge ECDIS will be replicated at an onshore control centre, allowing for full remote operation of Hrönn.
In the second phase of the project, ASL and BOURBON will join forces to search the subsidies to finance the effective construction of the prototype.
Hrönn's sea trials will take place in Norway's automated vessel test bed in the Trondheim fjord and will be conducted under the auspices of DNV GL and the Norwegian Maritime Authority.
Quantum-Systems has been upgrading its UAS family, with new versions of the Vector, Reliant and Twister drones set for release throughout 2025.
The service has been using a Directed Requirement (DR) approach to speed up the deployment of a Medium Range Reconnaissance capability.
AeroVironment’s portfolio will grow thanks to the eVTOL P550 aimed at battalion-level tactical forces.
The Royal Australian Air Force is advancing its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilities across three key programmes as it works with the likes of Boeing and Northrop Grumman to reshape Australia’s defence strategy.
Prototypes from Griffon Aerospace and Textron Systems recently passed through MOSA conformance trials and flight tests.
Funds for the second phase of this effort will be allocated in the US Department of Defense (DoD) FY2026 budget request.