The Defense Force of New Zealand plans to trial the first renewable-powered Uncrewed Surface Vessel through a short-term lease with the RNZN. The USV utilizes a retractable rigid sail with photo-electric cells, allowing it to navigate without sunlight and wind.
Deploying First Renewable-Powered USV
The New Zealand Defense Force has revealed its plans to deploy the first renewable-powered Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV), named "Bluebottle," on a short-term lease for trials by the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN).
Interesting Engineering reported that the 22.3-foot USV would play a role in persistent surveillance for fishery protection, border control, and meteorological data in New Zealand's waters.
Currently being transported from Sydney to Auckland by HMNZS Aotearoa, "Bluebottle" is designed and manufactured by Ocius Technology, a Sydney-based company with prior experience in supplying USVs to the Australian Defence Force and collaborating with various agencies.
According to RNZN, the Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) employs a retractable rigid sail for wind propulsion, utilizing photo-electric cells on the sail. "Bluebottle" features a unique flipper and rudder system that enables navigation even without sunlight and wind.
It boasts a top speed of five knots and can operate at sea indefinitely, enduring rough conditions with wave heights ranging from six to nine meters.
Ensuring Secure System Control, Effective Vessel Identification
Equipped with radar, electro-optic, and infrared cameras, the USV ensures secure system control and effective vessel identification. The control and monitoring of the USV will be centralized in a control room at Devonport Naval Base.
Communication will be facilitated through mobile signals near the shore and high- and low-bandwidth satellites in offshore areas. Naval News reported that continuous surveillance will guarantee the USV's safe and efficient performance.
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Commodore Garin Golding, RNZN's Maritime Component Commander, expresses enthusiasm about the USV's potential capabilities, particularly considering the vast size of New Zealand's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
As stated in its press release, he emphasized the immense coverage required for New Zealand's EEZ and the associated search and rescue area, spanning a total of 34 million square kilometers.
Acknowledging the challenges of monitoring such vast oceanic territories, he expressed optimism about the potential contributions of uncrewed drone aircraft and vessels in fulfilling crucial search and surveillance tasks.
Meanwhile, Commander Andy Bryant, RNZN's Commander of Autonomous Systems, anticipates witnessing the capabilities of the USV.
Based on the Bluebottle's successful activities supporting the Australian Government for extended periods without refueling or crew respite, Commander Bryant is confident in uncovering valuable insights into uncrewed vessels' operational and sustainable aspects.
The USV boasts versatile mobility, capable of transportation via trailer to various locations across New Zealand. Its launch and recovery can be seamlessly executed from a boat ramp. Additionally, the USV exhibits adaptability by being craned on and off a Navy ship, facilitating operational launches during overseas deployments.
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