Autonomous boat with 99% mine detection rate delivered to French Navy

Thales has delivered a new autonomous surface naval drone to the French Navy, boasting a 99% sea mine detection rate. Designed to enhance mine countermeasure operations, the unmanned vessel reduces personnel exposure to hazardous environments and integrates advanced sensors, including the unique multi-view SAMDIS sonar and the towed TSAM sonar. The system is equipped with AI-driven data analysis software and the M-Cube mission management system, which streamline mission planning and reduce operator workload. The drone is also resilient to cyber threats, enabling it to conduct sensitive maritime defense operations securely. This delivery follows over 3,000 hours of sea trials and builds on earlier prototypes tested by both the French and Royal Navies since 2021. Developed in collaboration with the Couach shipyard, the drone is part of the Franco-British Maritime Mine Counter Measures (MMCM) program, which aims to increase naval operational superiority through fast integration of heterogeneous drones and innovative AI algorithms. Managed by OCCAR and supported by the French D