Norwegian companies Eelume and Maritime Robotics are developing a new autonomous mine countermeasures concept that integrates unmanned surface vessels and underwater robots into a single, coordinated system. The initiative aims to modernize mine detection and clearance operations by combining surface and subsea autonomy into a unified operational framework.
At the center of the concept is Maritime Robotics’ WP960 unmanned surface vessel, which functions as a deployment and support hub for multiple Eelume S All-Terrain autonomous underwater vehicles. Operating from the surface, the WP960 can launch, recover, and sustain a swarm of AUVs tasked with detecting and neutralizing mines located on or beneath the seabed. Mission data is transmitted back to the USV and processed using artificial intelligence-based object recognition technology from Biodrone to help operators identify and classify potential threats.
The system is designed to allow surface, underwater, and remotely operated assets to work together as a single mine countermeasures capability. According to the companies, the concept offers a flexible and scalable solution for military, research, and civilian users, particularly in complex underwater environments where traditional mine clearance methods face limitations.
The WP960 measures 9.6 meters in length and features a modular design with variants extending to 11.8 meters. Powered by twin Hamilton waterjets, the USV cruises at 4 knots during survey missions and can exceed 30 knots in transit. Its single-point lift system supports rapid launch and recovery, while transportability by road, sea, or air enables fast deployment across a wide range of operational scenarios.
