Sweden has officially contracted BUVI Scandinavia to deliver an advanced uncrewed surface vehicle (USV), known as the EvoLogics Sonobot 5, for military applications focused on waterway survey operations. This contract, valued at 43 million Swedish kronor (approximately $4.57 million), encompasses the supply of a Sonobot 5 system scheduled for delivery in the fall of 2026. In addition to the vehicle itself, the agreement includes essential support services and training, as well as an option for the procurement of additional systems in the future.
The Sonobot 5 is designed specifically for surveying various waterways, such as rivers, streams, canals, and shallow water environments. This capability is crucial for preliminary assessments before the deployment of essential infrastructure like pontoon or floating bridge systems. By providing accurate evaluations of water depth, terrain, and potential underwater obstacles, the Sonobot 5 will enhance the safety and efficiency of military bridge construction efforts.
Before its operational induction, the Sonobot 5 will undergo extensive testing and evaluation in both coastal and inland settings. Gabriel Dalborg, a systems engineer at Sweden’s defense procurement agency, highlighted the benefits of the new system, stating that it can rapidly create detailed 3D images of the seabed. This technological advancement is expected to facilitate quicker and more informed decision-making and improve overall capabilities in field operations for the armed forces.
The EvoLogics Sonobot 5, characterized as a lightweight and modular platform, is versatile enough to handle a range of tasks including automated hydrographic surveys, infrastructure inspections, environmental monitoring, and search-and-rescue missions in both inland and coastal waters. Its robust and compact design allows for deployment by a single operator, and it can function in both autonomous and remotely controlled modes.
The modular architecture of the Sonobot 5 permits multiple configurations tailored to specific missions, enhancing its versatility across different types of operations. Performance and endurance can vary based on the setup chosen, and the onboard AI capabilities enable real-time data processing, supporting expedited decision-making processes. This innovative technology promises to significantly bolster Sweden’s military surveying operations, paving the way for more effective infrastructure development in challenging environments.
