Barracuda underwater robot autonomously locates sea mines
Before sea mines can be removed, they must first be localized and precisely detected. The autonomous robot Barracuda can help with this.
(Image: Raytheon)
The US aerospace and defense company RTX has tested the semi-autonomous underwater mine countermeasure robot Barracuda in the open sea in Narragansett Bay northwest of Prudence Island. This was announced on Tuesday by the Raytheon defense division, which is part of RTX. The wireless autonomous robot can independently detect and identify sea mines. However, the underwater explosive devices must then be cleared manually.
The company does not provide any detailed information on the technology of the Barracuda. However, the underwater robot is tubular and has several electric thrusters mounted on the sides, front and rear. The robot can be deployed from almost any military vessel.
According to Raytheon, the underwater robot has a modular design. This means it can be adapted for missions to detect sea mines. The robot is wirelessly connected to an operator on board the launching boat, who can intervene in the autonomous journey at any time. In this way, the robot also complies with the Pentagon's rules of engagement and operational safety. The robot also transmits visual data via the wireless connection.
Localization of sea mines
Sea mines are apparently detected by evaluating camera images using artificial intelligence (AI). The robot should be able to “locate, track, and classify bottom, volume, and surface mines,” writes Raytheon. Experts then examine the classified sea mines to initiate further measures. The removal is carried out by a mine clearance team.
In principle, Barracuda can also be used for other missions, Raytheon writes cryptically. Apparently, this refers to reconnaissance missions and underwater jamming of potential enemies.
Videos by heise
As the initial tests have been successful, Raytheon now wants to produce the Barracudas in a small series. They should be ready for deployment by 2030. This date coincides with the U.S. Navy's modernization plan. It will then receive several of the unmanned Barracuda systems. These could also include larger variants that could operate at greater depths and in greater areas and take on additional military tasks.
(olb)
