Australia Enhances ASW Training with Additional Saab AUV62-AT

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

• Diameter: 533 mm (21 inches)

• Weight: ~800 kg

• Operating Depth: Up to 300 metres

• Speed:

  • Submerged: 3–12 knots

  • Surface: 0–3 knots

• Endurance:

  • Over 3 hours at 10 knots

  • Over 9 hours at 6 knots

  • Over 18 hours at 3 knots

Acoustic & Signal Capabilities

• Active Mode: Programmable echo repeater with wide frequency coverage

• Passive Mode: Generates realistic submarine noise, tonals, and pre-recorded acoustic signatures

• Frequency Range: 25 Hz – 100 kHz

• Output Level: 175 dB (relative 1 μPa @ 1m)

• Target Strength: Adjustable from –20 dB to +20 dB

Modular & Flexible Design

• Can be launched from ships, submarines, or shore facilities

• Features extendable tail to alter acoustic profile

• Equipped with multiple transducers (low, mid, high frequency)

• Hydrophones for accurate sonar echo reception

• Onboard mast for communications and data link

Navigation & Autonomy

• Navigation Suite: Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), Doppler Velocity Log (DVL), and depth sensors

• Communications: Acoustic link, Wi-Fi, SATCOM, and VHF

• Power: Dual battery system with backup emergency supply

• 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.