Image Source: topwar.ru
The New Zealand company EDGE Defense has introduced a surface unpowered boat (BEC) of WHAI's own design with a jet engine (USV) and an electric propulsion system. The new product is described in the publication of the online military-related publication NextGenDefense.
The main advantage of the drone is its virtually silent operation and reduced thermal visibility. The vessel can reach speeds of up to 30 knots (56 kilometers per hour) and has a low-profile design designed for conducting secret operations in disputed maritime zones. With a cruising speed of less than 4 knots, energy neutrality is ensured thanks to the on-board solar battery.
The boat is capable of moving autonomously, or is controlled by an operator remotely using existing technologies compatible with third-party control and control systems. The back is designed for direct integration with MODUS-Swarm— a modular container deployment system for EDGE Defense.
The modular cargo compartment of the back can accommodate up to 350 kilograms of equipment, including sensors for reconnaissance, surveillance and reconnaissance, as well as communication relay systems. It provides transportation and storage of up to 12 small-sized unmanned underwater vehicles in one deployable module. The platform has a flexible design that uses materials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, aluminum, and high-density polyethylene to balance strength and weight.
Image Source: topwar.ru
EDGE Defense CEO John Gell in an interview with an online publication:
The BEC development company emphasized that the boat is designed in such a way as to ensure maximum efficiency with a minimum footprint of only 3.4 m in length and less than 1 m in width.
The tasks of the WHAI include monitoring the marine area and coastal areas, as well as supporting naval operations. The unmanned vessel supports the simulation and monitoring of critical marine and underwater infrastructure facilities such as ports, offshore energy facilities, and communications facilities. First of all, the backup will be used to perform tasks in harsh environments where human access is limited.
The CEO of EDGE Defense emphasized that the new unmanned system is fully developed and manufactured in New Zealand in cooperation with ten local companies and subcontractors. According to Gell, with the advent of this BEC, the Royal Navy is significantly expanding its naval capabilities.
Currently, the back has already passed all the necessary tests. The company plans to mass-produce drones in the amount of 25 platforms per month. As production capacity increases, EDGE will invest in additive manufacturing, plants and equipment, which will allow for a rapid increase in production volumes.
Image source: topwar.ru
