Unveiled covertly, the high-speed Needlefish submarine prepares to advance autonomous security in marine territories.
In a significant development for Kuwait's maritime security, the country has introduced the NeedleFish Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV), a high-speed autonomous patrol vessel designed for maritime surveillance and defense. This innovative vessel is not a standalone system but an integral part of a comprehensive maritime surveillance network, known as the SRT C5iSR maritime surveillance network [1][3][4].
The NeedleFish USV, developed in collaboration between the Kuwaiti Coast Guard, UK companies SRT Marine Systems, and Ocean Infinity, is a key component of this advanced network. The SRT C5iSR system integrates the Needlefish USV with various state-of-the-art sensor technologies, including specialized cameras, radar systems, and radio frequency sensors, deployed on stationary and mobile platforms [1][3].
Ocean Infinity, a company renowned for its expertise in subsea search and autonomous surveying, manages the largest active fleet of USVs and UUVs in the world [2]. The Needlefish project leverages this extensive background in unmanned vehicle operations, marking an extension of their expertise in autonomous technology.
The Needlefish vessels, custom-equipped with an array of specialist maritime surveillance sensors, are tailored specifically for the demanding conditions of Kuwait. They enable beyond-line-of-sight marine surveillance with live data streaming directly to the command centers, providing unparalleled marine domain awareness [1][3].
The acquisition of the Needlefish vessels is a critical upgrade for Kuwait's national security. The vessels will form a key part of Kuwait's new integrated maritime surveillance system, enhancing naval security by enabling continuous autonomous patrols across its 11,000 km² territorial waters [1][3]. The system supports various missions such as ship interception, search and rescue, covert surveillance, and environmental monitoring.
The NeedleFish USV was officially unveiled at an event in Kuwait on Wednesday. The Kuwaiti Coast Guard has already purchased two of the 46-foot Needlefish vessels, along with twin remote control stations. This sophisticated and integrated maritime security system leverages advanced AI-driven sensor fusion, autonomous surface vehicles, and centralized control to achieve unparalleled marine domain awareness for Kuwait [1][3][4].
- The NeedleFish USV is a product of collaboration between the Kuwaiti Coast Guard, UK companies SRT Marine Systems, and Ocean Infinity, exemplifying the integration of science, technology, and industry.
- Ocean Infinity, a leader in subsea search and autonomous surveying, manages the largest active fleet of USVs and UUVs worldwide, bringing their expertise in robotics and autonomous technology to the Needlefish project.
- The Needlefish vessels, equipped with advanced maritime surveillance sensors, are designed to operate in the demanding conditions of Kuwait, providing enhanced finance support by monitoring its vast 11,000 km² territorial waters and supporting various missions like ship interception, search and rescue, covert surveillance, and environmental monitoring.
- The integration of the NeedleFish USV into Kuwait's maritime surveillance network, SRT C5iSR, not only advances technology but also revolutionizes transportation, ensuring unparalleled safety and efficiency in science and industry domains.
