L3Harris has expanded the capabilities of the Royal Navy with the delivery of three new Iver4 580 autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). These advanced vehicles are set to play a crucial role in unmanned mine-hunting and survey operations, aligning with the UK’s Mine Hunting Capability program and the Zulu Squadron.
The deployment of these AUVs is an integral component of Project Wilton, which emphasizes the importance of utilizing unmanned systems for mine hunting and route surveys in both domestic and international waters. This initiative aims to enhance the safety of commercial and military shipping navigation by efficiently detecting and neutralizing underwater threats without endangering personnel.
Following the delivery, the Royal Navy conducted a week-long series of trials intended to familiarize sailors with the operation of the Iver4 AUVs. This training is essential for integrating the new technology into the Navy’s operations and maximizing the operational effectiveness of the vehicles.
The Iver4 580 is a compact yet powerful AUV, weighing less than 100 pounds (45 kilograms) and measuring 82 inches (2 meters) in length. It boasts high-precision navigation sensors and advanced communication systems that facilitate effective surface tracking and mine detection. This technology ensures that underwater mines can be identified and dealt with remotely, significantly reducing risk to naval personnel.
In addition to its mine detection capabilities, the Iver4 580 is designed for a range of tasks, including intelligence gathering and anti-submarine warfare. Its versatility is enhanced by the ability to carry a full suite of sensors while remaining sufficiently compact for varied operational scenarios. The vehicle can operate at depths of up to 300 meters (984 feet), making it suitable for a wide range of marine environments.
The standard configuration of the Iver4 580 features essential tools for high-quality data collection, including side scan sonar, swath bathymetry capabilities, an inertial navigation system, and a sound velocity probe. These instruments collectively enable the AUV to achieve precise and reliable performance in its missions.
Powering the Iver4 580 is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which is designed for straightforward field replacements, ensuring minimal downtime during operations. The vehicle can sustain its missions for up to 18 hours, with cruising speeds ranging from 1 to 5 knots (1.15 to 5.7 miles/1.8 to 9.2 kilometers per hour), and it can reach a maximum sprint speed of 6 knots (6.9 meters/11 kilometers per hour).
The introduction of the Iver4 580 AUVs marks a significant advancement in the Royal Navy’s capabilities, enhancing its operational effectiveness while minimizing risks to human resources in potentially dangerous mine-hunting and surveillance missions.
