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Modern naval forces face a persistent challenge: how to monitor vast stretches of ocean without relying on crewed submarines or costly patrol cycles. Underwater drones can help, but most lack the endurance or autonomy needed for continuous intelligence gathering. EUROATLAS’ two new Greyshark autonomous underwater vehicles—Bravo and Foxtrot—are designed to address that gap.
The core problem is persistence. Traditional AUVs must surface frequently for power or communication, limiting how long they can remain covert or maintain data collection. The Greyshark Foxtrot variant tackles this with a hydrogen-based powertrain that enables missions lasting up to 16 weeks. At a steady cruising speed of 7.4 kmph, it can cover up to 20,300 nautical kms without requiring tethers or external data links. For shorter missions, the Greyshark Bravo offers the same sensing and intelligence capabilities with a battery-driven propulsion system.
According to NextGenDefense, both versions deliver level 5 autonomy, meaning they can operate for extended periods without human intervention. This allows them to continue navigating, mapping, and gathering intelligence even when communication links are disrupted—a key requirement for operations in contested waters or GNSS-denied environments.
Each AUV carries 17 onboard sensors that collect data continuously throughout a mission. These include tools for open-water navigation, seabed mapping in Arctic conditions, and operation in GNSS-denied environments. The goal is to provide persistent maritime intelligence without requiring personnel to enter hazardous or remote areas.
Such capabilities enable persistent undersea surveillance in regions where submarines or crewed patrol vessels cannot be continuously deployed. Long-endurance AUVs can support maritime domain awareness, seabed infrastructure monitoring, anti-submarine warfare operations, and reconnaissance around chokepoints or critical undersea cables.
A notable feature is the ability to coordinate multiple AUVs through “mothership control.” Bravo and Foxtrot can synchronize with each other and with surface ships via the company’s combat-cloud architecture, acting as a distributed sensor network. They can also launch from aircraft, coastal stations, or naval vessels and return autonomously for recharging.
The Greyshark Bravo is advancing toward production following sea trials, while the Foxtrot variant is preparing for testing after hydrogen fuel cell integration. The company aims to scale manufacturing to 150 units per year by 2026, reflecting rising demand for autonomous underwater monitoring systems among allied navies.
