U.K. Royal Navy Tests Underwater Robot to Counter Sabotage Bomb Threats

The U.K. Royal Navy is testing a new underwater robot developed to address sabotage risks and safely neutralise unexploded ordnance on the seabed.

The remotely operated vehicle (ROV), enhanced by the U.K.'s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), is intended to support missions that protect key maritime infrastructure such as undersea cables and pipelines.

The robot is designed to function in environments and depths that are difficult or dangerous for human divers. It detects explosive devices, delivers live sonar and video feeds to operators, and can safely destroy ordnance using surface-controlled charges.

The system is being tested in multiple locations including Portsmouth, Portland, South Wales, and Norway. According to Dstl, it offers a reusable and cost-effective solution compared to traditional one-time-use technologies. It can be launched from ships or shore and is built to complement other underwater robotic systems by rapidly scanning and responding to seabed threats.

An explosives engineer with Dstl was quoted as saying by BFBS Forces News: “This unique capability with its sensors, tools and cameras will give operators a real-time ability to deal with these underwater hazards in a safe, effective and efficient way.”