The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has awarded Saab Australia a new contract for an additional AUV62-AT autonomous anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training target, strengthening its ability to conduct advanced submarine-hunting exercises. The AUV62-AT simulates submarines, torpedoes, or other underwater vehicles, enabling crews to train in realistic combat conditions without the need to deploy costly live submarines.
This state-of-the-art system allows for ship-based or shore-based launch and recovery and comes with advanced communications and mission evaluation software, ensuring tailored training programs from basic to advanced levels.
Specifications of the Saab AUV62-AT
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Diameter: 533 mm (21 inches)
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Weight: ~800 kg
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Operating Depth: Up to 300 metres
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Speed:
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Submerged: 3–12 knots
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Surface: 0–3 knots
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Endurance:
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Over 3 hours at 10 knots
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Over 9 hours at 6 knots
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Over 18 hours at 3 knots
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Acoustic & Signal Capabilities
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Active Mode: Programmable echo repeater with wide frequency coverage
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Passive Mode: Generates realistic submarine noise, tonals, and pre-recorded acoustic signatures
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Frequency Range: 25 Hz – 100 kHz
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Output Level: 175 dB (relative 1 μPa @ 1m)
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Target Strength: Adjustable from –20 dB to +20 dB
Modular & Flexible Design
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Can be launched from ships, submarines, or shore facilities
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Features extendable tail to alter acoustic profile
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Equipped with multiple transducers (low, mid, high frequency)
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Hydrophones for accurate sonar echo reception
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Onboard mast for communications and data link
Navigation & Autonomy
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Navigation Suite: Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), Doppler Velocity Log (DVL), and depth sensors
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Communications: Acoustic link, Wi-Fi, SATCOM, and VHF
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Power: Dual battery system with backup emergency supply
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Autonomy: Fully autonomous or remotely controlled; capable of evading active sonar during exercises
Operational Value for the RAN
According to Saab Australia, the AUV62-AT delivers 90–95% of the realism of a live submarine. It provides longer, more intensive training sessions, and includes integrated post-mission evaluation tools for debriefs.
This latest contract builds upon a previous deal where Saab delivered an AUV62-AT to the RAN in 2020, complete with five years of support. The new acquisition underscores Australia’s commitment to strengthening its ASW capabilities as part of its broader naval modernization program.
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