Tiny Sailboats Could Revolutionize Submarine Comms

The UK's Royal Navy is exploring a novel approach to naval warfare with a demonstration of wind-propelled robot boats. These compact, 1.2-meter vessels, known as C-Stars, are designed by Oshen and powered by solar panels for navigation and sails for propulsion. When deployed in a constellation, they form an extensive sensor network.

In a recent trial, these C-Stars are being used to relay acoustic signals between uncrewed submarines. Their strength lies in numbers, as a dispersed fleet makes it impossible to pinpoint a submarine's location. These robust boats can operate at sea for six months or longer, having previously transmitted data from within a category 5 storm.

Beyond submarine communication, these robot sailboats could detect ships, missiles, or drones. They offer a sustainable alternative to disposable sonar buoys, which have limited operational lifespans. The technology's integration with existing naval systems is a key focus of the current demonstration, with the potential for large-scale deployment.

Experts note the increasing acceptance of solar- and wind-powered uncrewed vessels, highlighting autonomy and minimal human interaction as crucial advantages for operating large fleets. Future refinements aim to enhance detail and coverage with fewer C-Star units, optimizing their effectiveness.