Herne XLAUV: BAE Systems Underwater Technology with Global Demonstrations

BAE Systems recently unveiled its ambitious Herne Extra-Large Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (XLAUV) in a series of compelling demonstrations off the southern coast of England. Over two weeks in November, representatives from 10 nations, including NATO and Five Eyes partners, observed the Herne XLAUV in action as it executed an advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) mission. This groundbreaking platform represents a collaborative engineering feat designed to address the growing demand for versatile, cost-effective underwater capabilities.

A New Era for Autonomous Underwater Operations

Herne is the culmination of a partnership between BAE Systems and Canadian marine innovator Cellula Robotics. By integrating Cellula's Solus-XR platform technology with BAE's Nautomate control software, Herne delivers a unique combination of modular design, autonomous functionality, and military-grade adaptability.

The Solus-XR, a 12-meter-long free-flooding autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), provides the physical framework. Its 3,000-meter depth rating, 5,000 liters of payload capacity, and rapid payload-swapping capability (achieved in under 90 minutes) make it exceptionally versatile. Payload modules are easily interchangeable, allowing operators to customize configurations for diverse missions such as ISR, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), electronic warfare (EW), and seabed operations.

Modular Design and Advanced Autonomy

At the heart of Herne lies the Nautomate autonomous control system, described by BAE Systems’ Tim O’Neill as “a brain in a box.” This advanced software allows Herne to operate independently, adapting to environmental challenges and mission parameters in real-time. The recent demonstrations highlighted the platform's ability to autonomously navigate hazards, collect and analyze high-definition video imagery, and track dynamic targets using machine vision.

The platform's modularity and flexibility extend beyond software. Its scalable design incorporates mission-specific plug-ins, enabling seamless integration of new payloads and sensors. BAE Systems has already begun defining an ASW package featuring a thin-line passive towed array, with plans to explore multistatic ASW configurations. For EW missions, Herne could serve as a forward-deployed signal interceptor or even carry payloads for jamming and deception.

Innovations in Power and Endurance

Currently powered by lithium-ion batteries, Herne offers endurance measured in days. However, the platform's long-term potential hinges on Cellula Robotics’ ongoing advancements in hydrogen fuel cell technology. Once integrated, this system could enable missions spanning 5,000 kilometers at a cruising speed of 3 knots, significantly enhancing its operational range and flexibility.

The Demonstration and Future Path

The November trials placed Herne in a challenging operational scenario. The XLAUV conducted a covert subsurface entry into a harbor, autonomously navigated complex obstacles, and transmitted ISR data after identifying a hostile target. The exercise validated the system's autonomy and effectiveness, reassuring observers of its readiness for real-world deployment.

BAE Systems plans to build on this success with further testing and refinements. These efforts include improving launch-and-recovery systems, advancing the Nautomate software, and exploring payloads for ASW, EW, and seabed operations. The goal is clear: to deliver a fully operational Herne XLAUV by mid-2026, complete with hydrogen fuel cell options and adaptable mission capabilities.

Redefining Underwater Warfare

Herne's design philosophy prioritizes flexibility and rapid deployment. By leveraging an off-the-shelf platform and enhancing it with military-grade systems, BAE Systems aims to reduce time-to-market and cost while maintaining cutting-edge performance. This proactive approach aligns with the evolving needs of navies worldwide, providing a scalable, versatile solution for modern underwater challenges.

As autonomous underwater vehicles become a cornerstone of naval operations, Herne XLAUV stands out as a prime example of innovative engineering and international collaboration, setting a new benchmark for the future of maritime defense.