Automatic docking as an enabling technology for the operational autonomy of underwater systems
For a long time, the operational autonomy of underwater systems has been constrained by the inability to ensure persistent operations without direct human intervention. Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), while capable of carrying out pre-programmed missions along the water column or on the seabed, have historically required physical recovery at the end of each operational cycle for energy recharging, data transfer and mission reconfiguration.This dependence on surface operations has represented one of the main bottlenecks in the development of long-term marine observation infrastructures, significan
Fincantieri Unit WASS Wins $237M Saudi Navy Torpedo Contract
, is currently in service with the navies of Italy and more than 10 other countries and can be deployed from surface vessels and aircraft.“This contract represents a milestone for WASS and for the entire Fincantieri Group. It confirms the technological excellence and reliability of our underwater systems, as well as our ability to operate as a trusted partner in highly strategic and complex defense programs,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Fincantieri.The contract marks WASS’s first direct agreement with the Saudi Ministry of Defense
NUWC Division Newport Looks to Build Partnerships, Hosts Rhode Island Commerce Officials
of the Undersea Warfare (USW) Weapons, Vehicles, and Defensive Systems Department, provided a brief history of the warfare center’s involvement with torpedo development and an overview of the U.S. Navy’s only land-based facility for full system mechanical testing for torpedoes and other underwater systems. Eric Warner, a mechanical engineer in the USW Weapons, Vehicles, and Defensive Systems Department, explained the work done in the Mechanics of Materials Laboratory before the tour wrapped up with a stop in the Anechoic Chamber, a dual-use facility for advanced studies in active noise
The SeaVorian Group Becomes RTsys Group
solutions for understanding and observing marine and underwater environments, leveraging the group's expertise along with partner technologies integrated into tailor-made systems.RTsys Survey & Data Services: offshore data collection services using towed, remotely operated, or autonomous underwater systems, complemented by data analysis and processing for end users.This new identity coincides with the relocation of all Lorient-based teams to a new site as of January 2026, tripling the group's production capacity and positioning it firmly towards performance and innovation.The company Mappem
Fincantieri’s WASS Bags $235M Torpedo Order from Indian Navy
than $235 million, is the largest ever awarded in WASS’s history and coincides with the company’s 150th anniversary. Deliveries are scheduled between 2028 and 2030, with production to be carried out at WASS’s facility in Livorno, Italy’s national center of excellence for underwater systems.The Black Shark Advanced torpedo is already in service with the Italian Navy and six other international navies, and is positioned as a global benchmark in performance, reliability and operating costs. The system features advanced technological and operational capabilities and underscores Italy&rsqu
Fincantieri's WASS Snags Torpedo Deal
Fincantieri’s underwater systems subsidiary WASS has secured its largest contract to date, winning an order from the Indian Navy to supply Black Shark Advanced (BSA) heavyweight torpedoes for the service’s Scorpène-class submarine fleet.“This agreement represents a strategically important step for Fincantieri in India,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and General Manager of Fincantieri, noting the country’s growing role as a global naval hub and a key player in maritime security.The contract, valued at more than €200 million, covers the supply of BSA torpedoes
AI is Boosting Operational Autonomy
. “Current systems predominantly exhibit partial autonomy, performing pre-defined missions with limited adaptability. However, advancements in hybrid localisation techniques, multi-modal sensor fusion, and AI-driven decision-making are pushing the boundaries of autonomy, enabling autonomous underwater systems to adapt dynamically to complex underwater environments.”Control systems bridge the gap between decision making and physical execution, and they are increasingly incorporating AI-based frameworks that enable real-time adaptive behaviour by processing multi-modal data from navigation systems
Deeply Innovative: Drivers in Subsea Defense
, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), while HERMES is a rugged, self-righting trimaran for logistics and high-speed tracking.SP-48 solar-powered USV. Credit: SeaTrac SystemsHORUS vessel. Credit: SubSeaSailSubsea Communication Networks: Connecting the Underwater BattlespaceAs unmanned underwater systems proliferate, reliable underwater communication is equally as critical as navigation and sensing, and MTR100 companies are pioneering solutions that enable navies to create highly integrated and distributed subsea networks.Sonardyne has long been a leader in subsea communications and positioning
DEEP Expands U.S. Operations with $100m Investment, Builds Subsea Human Habitat in Florida
technology.As part of the Vanguard build program, DEEP has awarded a multimillion-dollar contract to Triton Submarines, the Florida-based manufacturer of advanced submersibles. Triton will provide critical engineering services, leveraging its expertise in pressure vessel design, certification, and underwater systems integration.DEEP has also engaged Bastion Technologies, with its expertise in aerospace and subsea engineering, and Unique Group, a global leader in diving and marine services, to further strengthen the Vanguard project team's capabilities.At the Houston facility, Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing
February 2026
