L3 ASV has announced the delivery of a new long-endurance autonomous unmanned surface vessel (USV) to the Royal Navy (RN) for military data gathering trials in support of the Mine Countermeasures and Hydrographic Capability (MHC) programme.
The Royal Navy will use L3 ASV’s C-Enduro USV for developmental trials. (L3 ASV)
Acquired under the Military Data Gathering (MDG) Unmanned Surface Vehicle project, the 4.8 m C-Enduro craft is equipped with a payload of 10 sensors combining scientific and hydrographic survey equipment. Underwater sensors can be mounted beneath the deck, on the keel, and/or on the winch, while a topside mast structure is able to accommodate weather sensors and camera suites.
The MDG USV is configured for over-the-horizon data transmission using broadband satellite communication and is capable of undertaking missions longer than 30 days. It can achieve speeds of up to 6.5 kt. A 2.5 kW diesel generator set, solar (12 1,200 W panels) and wind power (500 W turbine) options provide assured power for propulsion and payloads in all environmental conditions.
The baseline C-Enduro USV operates using L3 ASV’s proprietary ASView control system, and is fitted with the company’s advanced autonomy package, ensuring situational awareness and smart path planning. ASView enables a range of autonomous control modes including line following, station keeping, and geofencing.
The sea vehicle is fitted with an SBG Systems Ekinox2-D all-in-one inertial navigation system with integrated real-time kinematic (RTK) GNSS receiver to provide orientation, heave, and centimetric-level positional data. It also includes a collision avoidance capability.
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