Advancing European Maritime Security with AI-Driven Autonomous Systems
FLANQ Defence, headquartered in northern Germany, is a cutting-edge European defense technology company specializing in autonomous maritime systems. Established in 2024 as a subsidiary of Subsea Europe Services, FLANQ leverages decades of expertise in offshore energy and ocean science to develop and deliver advanced uncrewed surface and underwater vehicles, integrated with proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) software and hardware. The company’s mission is to enhance European maritime security by providing rapid, effective solutions tailored to the evolving threats in the maritime domain.
Company Overview and Strategic Vision
FLANQ was founded to address the growing security challenges in Europe’s maritime domain, including the protection of critical infrastructure, expansive coastlines, and essential trade routes. The company’s approach centers on transforming state-of-the-art maritime technology into intelligent defense solutions that are mission-ready today. FLANQ emphasizes a European focus, aligning its offerings with EU and NATO goals for naval autonomy and interoperability.
The company’s leadership, including CEO Sören Themann and CCO Daniel Esser, brings a wealth of experience in deploying robotic technologies in security, energy, and science sectors. FLANQ’s agile approach to contracting, manufacturing, and delivery ensures rapid deployment of solutions, transforming commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) platforms to meet the pace demanded by armed forces.
Advanced Autonomous Platforms
Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs)
FLANQ offers a range of intelligent, scalable, and highly customizable USVs designed for various missions:
- T18/M18 USV: A 5.8-meter-long vessel capable of long-range operations with significant payload capacity. It supports solo or coordinated “wolf pack” missions, offering burst speeds exceeding 30 knots and a range of over 500 nautical miles.
- T8, T12, T24, T38 USVs: These models vary in size and capability, providing options for different operational requirements. Each is designed to carry diverse sensor and effector payloads, enhancing mission flexibility.
Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)
FLANQ’s AUVs are engineered for complex and extended subsea missions:
- COMET AUV: A man-portable, 155mm diameter vehicle designed for long-range surveys, deep-water inspections, and covert intelligence gathering. It features advanced navigation, adaptable payload configurations, and enhanced autonomy.
- NEMOSENS, SEMA, A.IKANBILIS: These AUVs offer capabilities ranging from surveillance and reconnaissance to combat missions, supporting naval base protection and underwater warfare training.
Proprietary Technology Stack
FLANQ’s technological edge lies in its proprietary software and hardware stack, designed to unlock true autonomy in complex and contested maritime environments:
- Q-MIND: An AI engine that enables real-time perception, understanding, and response, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making.
- Q-KONTROL: A system that redefines payload integration with sensor-specific modules, a simple web user interface, and minimal cabling, delivering unmatched efficiency on the frontline. It supports over 50 sensors with integration times under 30 minutes.
- Q-MAP: Imaging sonars for survey operations, delivering high-resolution underwater imaging seamlessly integrated with USVs for enhanced situational awareness.
Commitment to European Security
FLANQ is dedicated to protecting European democracies through domain advantage. The company prioritizes “Made in Europe for Europe,” using responsibly sourced, local content and acting with integrity at all times. By focusing on rapid, effective solutions and leveraging its deep knowledge of the maritime battlespace, FLANQ aims to keep Europe and its allies ahead of evolving threats and adversaries. FLANQ Defence stands at the forefront of autonomous maritime defense, offering AI-powered solutions that enhance situational awareness, operational efficiency, and mission readiness. With a strong foundation in maritime technology and a commitment to European security, FLANQ is poised to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the continent’s maritime interests.
