Euronaval 2026: Elbit Systems to use fuel cells to extend UUV range

Explorer autonomous underwater vehicle. Elbit Systems acquired ISE, which builds the system, according to an announcement from 29 October 2026. (Elbit Systems)

Elbit Systems is pursuing fuel-cell technology to extend the range of its unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), naval systems general manager Saar Koursh told Janes on 4 November 2026.

Elbit announced on 20 October that it had acquired Canadian company International Submarine Engineering (ISE), adding UUV capabilities to its portfolio. ISE builds the Explorer autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), which Elbit discussed at the Euronaval 2026 exhibition, held in Paris, from 3 to 6 November.

Elbit will explore fuel-cell technology for UUVs such as Explorer through its subsidiary Hydrolite. Koursh did not provide a precise estimate of the range the technology could add. He said lithium-ion batteries typically provide endurance measured in hours or days, while fuel cells could enable missions lasting weeks.

Fuel-cell integration is at an early stage. Koursh said the company expects to announce progress on the project within a few months.

Explorer uses lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of 24–139 kWh, depending on configuration. Advertised range and endurance vary with the number of battery banks and the survey payloads operating. ISE lists a charging time of less than three hours. Range between charges varies from 160 to 600 km, with endurance of 24–115 hours. Explorer is a scalable platform, ranging from 4.5 to 7.5 m in length and 620 to 1,700 kg in weight.