ZeroUSV has achieved a world first by demonstrating the autonomous deployment of multiple autonomous surface drones (ASVs) from a 12-metre Oceanus class uncrewed surface vessel (USV). It proves the payload flexibility of the Oceanus class USV platforms.
During trials in Plymouth, ZeroUSV‘s Oceanus12 deployed two Oshen C-Star’s. It demonstrates for the first time how one autonomous surface vessel can deploy multiple marine surface drones as part of a coordinated mission.
The demonstration was part of ongoing UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) backed programme. ZeroUSV is in charge of the programme alongside partners Oshen and MarineAI.
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Bringing together different capabilities
Centred around ZeroUSV’s Oceanus12 USV, the project brings together, Oshen’s C-Star and MarineAI’s GuardianAI autonomy software technology, proving the integration of drone payloads and deployment with an integrated, multiplatform autonomous capability for defence and security applications.
For the trial, the lightweight, sail and solar-powered C-Star was configured to collect high quality acoustic data. However, it can also be equipped with a wide range of sensors to support environmental monitoring, defence operations and critical underwater infrastructure monitoring.
MarineAI’s Guardian autonomy suite provides the navigational autonomy software. The software enables autonomous platforms to safely plan, coordinate and execute complex missions with minimal operator input. At the same time, it integrates multiple payloads for autonomous deployment capability allowing execution of tactical missions.
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Oceanus12 USV
The Oceanus12 USV is a flexible, modular autonomous platform capable of rapidly deploying a wide range of payloads. Re-configuration allows for different missions and different payloads quickly and effectively.
The trial demonstrates how the Oceanus class can deploy and support multiple assets, extending the reach of autonomous operations. At the same time, it reduces the need for personnel to operate in hazardous maritime environments. It also frees up crewed platforms for dedicated taskings.
Beyond deployment, Oceanus12 USV also enables operators to verify the location, status and performance of deployed autonomous assets in environments where traditional communications may be unavailable, unreliable or deliberately denied. This provides greater mission assurance during complex autonomous operations. It also reinforces Oceanus’ role as an active participant in autonomous mission execution, rather than simply a launch platform.
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Four C-stars at once
The next phase of the programme will see Oceanus12 USV autonomously deploy four C-Star vehicles simultaneously, demonstrating how distributed autonomous systems can operate together at greater scale.
Matthew Ratsey, Managing Director of ZeroUSV: ‘Autonomous operations are becoming increasingly complex, requiring multiple systems to work together seamlessly. Oceanus12 enables operators to deploy autonomous assets where they are needed, while also providing greater confidence in their location, status and performance in situations where traditional communications may not be available.’
‘Demonstrating the launching of maritime robots is another important step towards delivering truly scalable autonomous capability for defence and security customers,’ Ratsey adds. ‘It shows how a single autonomous platform can support multiple operational requirements while reducing risk to personnel and increasing operational flexibility.’
Picture: ZeroUSV’s Oceanus12 on the water (photo by ZeroUSV).
