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“ That could include sensors on the seabed, uncrewed underwater vessels, surface autonomous platforms, crewed vessels, aerial systems and space-based assets.
“ The modularity of the offer is important because it gives customers the flexibility to tailor and scale the capability around their own operational needs, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. It also means platforms such as the Arrowhead 140 can be ready for the Hybrid Navy model, integrating capabilities like ARMOR and acting as a Common Combat Vessel within a wider mix of crewed and uncrewed systems.
“ The aim is to create a wider network that enables greater situational awareness and supports more effective decision-making. Rather than looking at individual platforms in isolation, it’ s about how these technologies can work together to create a more integrated approach to defense and security.
“ Autonomy is going to be a significant part of the future of maritime capability, and our focus is on combining advanced technology with our existing platforms and engineering expertise to support that future.”
As autonomous technology continues to reshape naval operations, collaboration is becoming increasingly important. Babcock is working with partners across the UK, US, Australia and Asia to explore how emerging technologies can be integrated into future maritime capabilities. One of its key relationships is with HII, a partnership built on existing submarine manufacturing expertise and shared ambitions around autonomous systems.
“ HII is a very strong partner for us, and our relationship is built on a long history of working together, particularly through supporting the Virginia-class submarine program,” IIgi elaborates.“ We also have a joint venture with HII in Australia, which gives us another strong foundation for collaboration.
“ As the concept of a Hybrid Navy develops, we’ re looking closely at how autonomous
platforms can complement traditional capabilities. HII has already made significant progress in this area, including its work on uncrewed surface vessels, and we’ re exploring opportunities to collaborate further, including potential applications for the Royal Navy.
“ The reality is that the autonomous market is still developing. Everyone understands the direction of travel, but the exact requirements and solutions are continuing to evolve. That’ s why partnerships are so important; bringing together different expertise and perspectives to help shape the future of maritime capability.
“ While the US is a leading market for autonomous technology, we also believe it’ s important to build a broad network of
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