Thales Australia’s sonar sensors and processing systems will be integrated with C2 Robotics' Speartooth Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle (LUUV).
The Thales Australia sonar systems will help increase the reliable and precision of Speartooth's long-range autonomous navigation system.
"This will enhance customers’ trust in Speartooth and increase the range of missions it can perform," Thales Australia said in a statement.
A key goal of Speartooth is to be affordable and easy to mass produce. That necessities systems that can be produced at scale which is a strength of Thales Australia's sonar business according to the company.
“Collaborating with Thales, whose proficiency in sonar and acoustic payloads is world renowned, has the potential to accelerate Speartooth’s capabilities and footprint on an AUKUS stage. Most importantly, all of the sensors and electronics that will be integrated with Speartooth under this agreement are designed and produced locally at Thales’ Acoustics Centre of Excellence, Rydalmere, Sydney. This aligns with C2 Robotics’ approach of ensuring supply chain resilience and generating mass based on Australian industry," said C2 Robotics' Chief Technology Officer, Dr Tom Loveard.