Kraken Robotics and TKMS ATLAS UK have jointly demonstrated an autonomous launch and recovery system that allows an ARCIMS unmanned surface vessel to deploy and recover Kraken’s KATFISH synthetic aperture sonar towed vehicle, creating what the companies describe as the first air-deployable, 300-metre-rated autonomous towed survey package in service.
The demonstration took place off Portland on 18 to 19 November, with NATO delegations observing the ARCIMS USV autonomously plan and execute missions while streaming real-time data ashore via satellite links. Kraken said the system held up in sea state three conditions, underscoring its readiness for operational use.
“With the surge in unmanned systems for defence, naval forces need the best technology available,” Kraken CEO Greg Reid said. “Our USV-LARS allows small naval platforms to collect KATFISH’s high resolution SAS data, significantly increasing their capabilities and acting as force multipliers.”
The launch and recovery system was built to match the ARCIMS common deck interface, enabling a quick re-role of the 11-metre USV. TKMS ATLAS UK emphasised the pace of integration, which took just two weeks from mobilisation to demonstration.
“This achievement demonstrates what can be accomplished when innovation and collaboration come together,” said Wesley Galliver of ATLAS UK. “Integrating ARCIMS with KATFISH and LARS in such a compressed timeframe sets a new benchmark.”
KATFISH can deliver synthetic aperture sonar imagery with 3 cm by 3 cm resolution at ranges up to 200 metres per side and depths of 300 metres. Kraken noted that its titanium LARS gives small USVs a low-signature, lightweight mechanism to operate advanced sonar systems normally restricted to larger crewed platforms.
The companies said the combined system offers NATO navies a modular, rapidly deployable mine countermeasures capability suited for shallow-water operations and protection of critical underwater infrastructure.