The UK has successfully tested an advanced underwater robot designed to protect undersea pipelines and cables amid growing security concerns about such infrastructure. 

According to the information shared by the UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and the Ministry of Defence, the remotely operated vehicles (ROV) can prevent adversaries from sabotaging critical underwater pipelines and cables by identifying and clearing unexploded ordnances. 

The drone can safely neutralize underwater threats without risking lives or expensive vessels, which are usually deployed to help deal with underwater threats. 

Dstl explosives engineer, John, stated that the remotely operated vehicle will be a game changer in keeping the Royal Navy safe, while also “providing the public with value for money.” 

“This unique capability with its sensors, tools, and cameras will give operators a real-time ability to deal with these underwater hazards in a safe, effective, and efficient way,” John said. 

The new robotic vehicle can be deployed from a shoreline or a ship and allows operators to remotely control it. It also transmits a real-time video feed and sonar images of the threats to operators for proper analysis, enabling them to take appropriate action to neutralize it safely. 

Unlike a human diver, this vessel can operate for long hours at greater depths. It can also be used for multiple operations without getting destroyed, providing more value for money and economic benefits for partners. 

Developed through a partnership between the Royal Navy and industry partners, including Alford Technologies, Sonardyne, ECS Special Projects, and Atlantas Marine, the vehicle will be used alongside other robots and technology systems to scan the seabed for threats and neutralize them as soon as they are spotted. 

Dstl and industry partners have already tested the cutting-edge technology in Horsea Island in Portsmouth, Portland Harbour, South Wales, and Norway.