C2 Robotics and Mikel have announced a collaboration to enhance the performance, reliability, and operational reach of unmanned undersea vehicles (UUVs).
“This partnership represents a major step forward in unmanned undersea operations,” CEO and Co-Founder of C2 Robotics, Michael Bailey, said.
“By combining Speartooth’s advanced autonomy and large, modular payload capability with MIKEL’s proven acoustic navigation solution, we are creating a capability that will redefine what UUVs can achieve without GPS.”
By integrating Mikel's Submerged Acoustic Navigation System (SANS) into C2 Robotics’ Speartooth LUUV, the partnership will aim to deliver a new standard in precision navigation, and along with submarine and UUV communication, to provide mission flexibility and endurance for autonomous undersea operations.
“Our collaboration with C2 Robotics demonstrates the adaptability and value of SANS as a force multiplier for emerging UUV platforms,” President of Mikel, Kelly Mendell, stated.
“Integrating SANS with Speartooth ensures precise undersea navigation, supporting missions that demand both stealth and reliability.”
The Speartooth is a next-generation unmanned platform designed for versatility across military and commercial missions. By leveraging Mikel’s field-proven SANS technology, the vehicle will benefit from robust submerged navigation capabilities without the limitations of GPS access.
It is hoped by the two companies that this collaboration strengthens mission assurance in challenging environments where accuracy, stealth, and extended range are critical.
Mikel’s SANS is a modular, scalable, and portable acoustic tracking, navigation, and communication system designed to support a wide range of undersea platforms.
According to Mikel, the SANS has already been deployed in naval environments and provides resilient navigation data that enables operators to extend mission durations and increase confidence in unmanned systems.
Together, C2 Robotics and Mikel are hoping to address critical needs for navies, research institutions, and commercial operators worldwide.
Mikel is an undersea systems engineering company with experience in acoustic navigation, acoustics, signal processing, and systems integration.