Technical Capacity and Field Balances

Oshen is demonstrating the world's first acoustic picket line capability at REPMUS26. This capability utilizes six 1.2m (4') long robotic sailboats, each equipped with a hydrophone, to form a distributed surveillance network. This network is being tested against live targets for the first time.

Conventional passive sonar monitoring methods require surface ships to tow platforms equipped with hydrophones behind them. However, these methods are limited due to noise pollution and limited area coverage. Oshen's approach is to distribute many small, low-cost sensors over a wide area and increase the probability of detection.

Distributed Sensor Network and Network Resilience

C-Star autonomous bots are being used to create a distributed sensor network equipped with hydrophones. This network can create an acoustic barrier against any water area and can be adjusted in shape and density according to the threat picture. Additionally, multi-perspective tracking can help determine the target's location.

Network resilience is of critical importance. C-Star robots are designed for long-endurance and harsh environments and hold the distinction of being the only Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) to survive and transmit data through a Category 5 hurricane.

Conclusion and Future Perspective

REPMUS26 is a significant milestone in Oshen's collaboration with the naval defense forces. The company is working with the Royal Navy on three active projects and has signed a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the US Navy for single-towed sonar applications. Next month, eight C-Star bots will participate in the Maritime Big Play exercise in San Diego and test the acoustic picket line concept in a US context.