Saab at REPMUS 2024 – Advancing Maritime Unmanned Systems
In September 2024, Saab participated in REPMUS 2024, the Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping Maritime Unmanned Systems exercise organised by the Portuguese Navy.
The event brought together naval and defense industry leaders to explore cutting-edge technologies in maritime robotics. Saab contributed by deploying two configurations of our AUV62 advanced autonomous underwater vehicle, specifically- the AUV62-AT and AUV62-MR — along with five small unmanned Piraya development platforms.
AUV62
The AUV62-AT (Acoustic Target), designed as a training target for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), is currently utilised by numerous navies worldwide. During REPMUS 2024, it demonstrated its vital role in enhancing underwater defense capabilities.
Meanwhile, the AUV62-MR (Mine Reconnaissance), played a pivotal role in Mine Counter Measures (MCM). Equipped with an advanced Synthetic Aperture Sonar, the AUV62-MR was able to scan the seabed with exceptional resolution, coverage rate and navigation. In fact, it was recognised as the highest coverage rate at REPMUS, particularly excelling in shallow and challenging water conditions.
Building on Expertise in Baltic Sea Conditions
Saab’s extensive experience in developing robust underwater systems for challenging environments, such as the Baltic Sea, underscores Sweden's commitment to sharing expertise with its NATO allies. Magnus Andersson, Sea Trials Coordinator at Saab, emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating:
"Good underwater systems cannot be built behind closed walls. We must get out there, test the systems, and collaborate with users across NATO to leverage collective experience."
Our participation not only strengthened NATO’s knowledge of unmanned systems but also provided invaluable real-world testing and exposure for our technology, serving as a powerful demonstration of its capabilities.
Piraya Platforms
Saab’s Piraya development platforms were another highlight of the exercise. These autonomous surface vessels, along with their management systems, performed well. During the exercise, the Piraya team also conducted a test operation for the European Defence Agency (EDA) to evaluate how well autonomous systems can navigate maritime regulations. These tests will continue in Sweden, further enhancing the development of autonomous maritime systems.
Collaborating for Collective Success
Throughout the exercise, Saab worked closely with other companies and organisations, especially in the ASW community, where collaboration was key to ensuring successful trials. This teamwork helped deliver suitable signatures for a variety of ASW experiments, fulfilling the goals of all involved parties.
Overall, Saab’s participation in REPMUS 2024 was a great success, demonstrating not only the performance and innovation of our unmanned systems but also the importance of cooperation and shared knowledge within NATO. The real-world tests and collaborative spirit at the event continue to drive advancements in maritime defense technology.