Kraken Robotics and TKMS ATLAS UK Demonstrate Integrated USV Mine Countermeasure System
Kraken Robotics Inc. and TKMS ATLAS UK have successfully demonstrated the KATFISH USV Launch and Recovery System integrated onto a Royal Navy ARCIMS Unmanned Surface Vessel. The system enhances maritime security capabilities.
ST. JOHN’S, NEWFOUNDLAND – Kraken Robotics Inc. and TKMS ATLAS UK have successfully demonstrated the integration of Kraken’s KATFISH Unmanned Surface Vessel Launch and Recovery System (USV-LARS) onto TKMS ATLAS UK’s 11-meter ARCIMS Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV). The demonstration provided a comprehensive autonomous survey package for maritime security missions, including mine countermeasures and underwater infrastructure inspection.
The demonstrations took place off Portland, UK, from November 18-19 for NATO navies. The system operated in Sea State three conditions, proving its readiness for real-world maritime environments. This collaboration aims to deliver agile, modular, and cost-effective mine countermeasure capabilities to modern navies.
Kraken's KATFISH collects high-resolution synthetic aperture sonar data up to 200 meters range per side at depths of 300 meters. The high-resolution data was streamed in real-time via satellite to a shore-based command center, enabling operators to classify contacts in real-time. The system was rapidly mobilized onto the ARCIMS vessel, with integration and testing completed in just two weeks.
Greg Reid, President and CEO of Kraken Robotics, highlighted the system's significance for defense. "Naval forces need the best available technology to protect national security," Reid stated. "The USV-LARS enables smaller naval platforms to collect high-quality data from KATFISH, significantly increasing their capabilities."