Qatari Firms Unveil Autonomous Surface Vessels at DIMDEX Exhibition

Qatari companies have presented advancements in autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) at the ongoing Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX), showcasing their contributions to the evolving landscape of maritime technology.

Private-owned firm Performance Marine, in collaboration with L3Harris, introduced the 'Suhail,' a 39-foot autonomous surface vessel constructed entirely in Doha. The vessel is set to undergo sea demonstrations for the Qatari Emiri Navy in April, with hopes of securing a contract.

The collaboration has navigated the complexities of international arms regulations, with L3Harris ASV UK developing platforms outside the scope of International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

Barzan Holdings, a Qatari government-owned entity, showcased an unmanned surface vessel built in collaboration with Singapore's ST Engineering. Alongside the vessel, Barzan Holdings is actively developing a command-and-control center (C2) that links the USV with unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This integration was demonstrated through trial videos from trials conducted in Doha.

L3Harris and U.A.E.-based firm Al Seer Marine have joined forces to integrate autonomous capabilities into the Arabian Fox USV. The vessel, having completed testing, is expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2024 with the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command.