Exocetus Delivers Glider to Johns Hopkins APL

Connecticut-based Exocetus Autonomous Systems said it has delivered its first MOD2 Glider to Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL). The vehicle was purchased as part of an internal research and development project which intends to explore a diverse set of applications for the vehicle.

“Johns Hopkins APL was looking for a vehicle that could provide endurance and easy modification, and the MOD2 Glider was the only vehicle out there that provided those capabilities,” said Joe Turner, Exocetus COO & General Manager.    

The delivery took place at the end of July and represents the culmination of two years of developments and improvements to the MOD2 Glider. Exocetus has been improving on its Coastal Glider, expanding the computing and electronics capability of the already proven system.

“This is a big step,” Turner said. “To deliver our first updated vehicle to such a technically competent and knowledgeable customer really speaks volumes for the technology, and provides us with insightful feedback to continue to improve the vehicle.”

Exocetus designs and produces open-platform autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV) for commercial and research activities. The flagship MOD2 Glider, powered by a patented buoyancy engine, is uniquely capable in coastal environments where currents and salinity barriers inhibit other vehicles.