Advancing Autonomous Maritime Surveillance with Bluebottle USVs
Ocius Technology, headquartered in Sydney, Australia, is a leader in the development of autonomous maritime systems, particularly its flagship product, the Bluebottle Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV). These USVs are designed for persistent maritime surveillance, leveraging renewable energy sources to operate autonomously over extended periods.
Company Evolution and Mission
Originally established in 1997 as Solar Sailor Holdings, Ocius Technology began by developing hybrid-powered ferries that utilized solar and wind energy. In 2013, the company rebranded to Ocius Technology, shifting its focus to autonomous maritime systems. The company’s mission is to develop, build, operate, and sustain innovative autonomous solutions for maritime surveillance data and platforms.
Bluebottle USV: Design and Capabilities
The Bluebottle USV is an autonomous vessel powered by a combination of solar, wind, and wave energy, allowing for extended deployments without the need for fuel or crew. Key features include:
- Persistent Operation: Capable of remaining at sea for months, limited only by biofouling.
- Modular Payload: Supports up to 300 kg of sensors and equipment, with an average payload power of 100-120W.
- Advanced Maneuverability: Equipped with a unique solar-sail and rudder-flipper system, allowing for efficient navigation and the ability to get out of currents.
- Deployment Flexibility: Can be launched from boat ramps, ships, or jetty cranes, simplifying logistics.
These features make the Bluebottle USV suitable for a range of applications, including defense, environmental monitoring, and offshore energy operations.
Defense Applications
Ocius Technology has collaborated with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) to enhance maritime surveillance capabilities. The Bluebottle USVs have been utilized for:
- Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW): Equipped with active and passive sonar arrays, the USVs can detect and track submarines, providing a silent and persistent surveillance platform.
- Electronic Warfare: With a 6-meter mast above sea level, the USVs can carry communications and radar equipment, serving as Electronic Support Measures (ESM) platforms.
- Mine Countermeasures: Capable of managing fleets of underwater assets and exchanging high-volume data, enhancing mine detection and neutralization efforts.
In December 2024, the RAN accepted delivery of its sixth Bluebottle USV, designated BB706, marking a significant milestone in the integration of autonomous systems into naval operations.
International Collaborations and Market Expansion
Ocius Technology has expanded its reach through international collaborations. In May 2024, the company sold two Bluebottle USVs to ThayerMahan, a U.S. defense contractor, for AUD 2.4 million. These USVs were deployed off the U.S. East Coast for marine mammal monitoring and capability demonstrations.
The partnership with ThayerMahan also involved integrating the Outpost passive acoustic maritime surveillance system onto the Bluebottle USVs, enhancing their capabilities in undersea surveillance and contributing to the objectives of the AUKUS security pact
Environmental Monitoring and Scientific Research
Beyond defense applications, the Bluebottle USVs are instrumental in environmental monitoring and scientific research. Equipped with multibeam echo sounders and onboard processing capabilities, they provide real-time data on seabed conditions, marine biodiversity, and environmental parameters. Their ability to operate continuously and autonomously for extended periods ensures robust data collection without the logistical constraints of crewed vessels.
Conclusion
Ocius Technology has established itself as a leader in autonomous maritime systems through the development and deployment of the Bluebottle USV. With applications spanning defense, environmental monitoring, and scientific research, the company’s innovative approach and commitment to sustainability position it at the forefront of maritime surveillance technology.
