IDEX 2023: ADSB unveils new USV

ADSB's 170 M-Detector USV (ADSB)

Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) has unveiled a new unmanned surface vessel (USV) at IDEX 2023 in Abu Dhabi.

Speaking to Janes , Francesco Paolo Lo Monaco, director of shipbuilding and engineering at ADSB, said that the 17 m boat, known as the ‘170 M-Detector USV', is designed for mine counter measure (MCM) and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions and can operate as both a manned or unmanned platform.

The vessel is a modular system that can integrate a range of payloads and sensors, such as a remote weapon station or an unmanned aircraft system, depending on the user's needs. A number of systems are installed on the boat as standard and are provided by several different companies, Lo Monaco said.

These include the autonomous capability provided by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and an iXBlue SeapiX-FLS 5 3D multi beam sonar for mine detection and obstacle avoidance. The sonar has a beam coverage of 120 degrees and a detection range of 300 m, Lo Monaco said.

IAI can also equip its HR 180E solid state radar, as well as the MiniPOP electro optical camera for situational awareness, and MLM's Panoramic View 360 camera. Additionally, L3Harris Technologies can provide its Orion ASW towed sonar and the Iver autonomous underwater vehicle, which can investigate and classify potential mines.

The USV has a hybrid electric diesel engine that is capable of achieving speeds of up to 40 kt, and has an operational endurance of up to 4 hours in electric mode. It can be remotely controlled or operate in an autonomous mode, whereby the system follows designated waypoints and autonomously reacts to avoid objects and collisions, he detailed.