HII, Thales Integrate SAMDIS 600 Sonar With REMUS 620 Underwater Drone
HII and Thales have integrated the SAMDIS 600 sonar with the next-generation REMUS 620 medium unmanned underwater vehicle, completing field exercises at HII’s Pocasset facility in Massachusetts.
The project combined high-resolution, multi-angle synthetic aperture sensing technology with a long-endurance, modular platform, creating a system for potential military use in autonomous detection, classification, and mapping of sub-sea objects.
SAMDIS 600 is specifically designed for mine detection, underwater security, and infrastructure monitoring.
Meanwhile, the REMUS 620, measuring 7 meters (23 feet) long, can operate for more than 24 hours, travel up to 80 kilometers (50 miles), and reach a speed of 5 knots (9 kilometers/6 miles per hour).
The drone can dive to a depth of approximately 1,000 meters (3,280 feet), providing a versatile platform for a wide range of undersea missions.
Commenting on their achievement, the companies said the integration makes underwater missions more efficient and effective, while showing how working together across industry can provide advanced tools for military users.
“Teaming the Thales’ SAMDIS 600 sensor with the REMUS 620 shows the power of collaboration in driving innovation for our customers,” said Duane Fotheringham, president of Mission Technologies’ Unmanned Systems business group at HII.
“This milestone demonstrates not only the adaptability of the REMUS 620 but also the strength of industry partnerships in providing next-generation, interoperable solutions that enhance undersea operations for NATO and allied forces.”
