BAE Systems Partners with Cellula Robotics for Innovative AUV Progress
BAE Systems has entered into a strategic partnership with Cellula Robotics to unveil it’s cutting-edge Extra Large Autonomous Underwater vehicle (XLAUV).
Introducing Herne: The Future of Underwater Operations
Named Herne, this advanced vehicle is set to be demonstrated in aquatic trials during the latter half of 2024. This initiative aims to showcase the vehicle’s capabilities, which are rooted in BAE Systems’ extensive experience with military clients, ensuring the necessary endurance and adaptability for future missions.
Versatile design for Diverse Missions
The XLAUV’s flexible architecture allows it to be tailored for various operations, such as anti-submarine warfare, electronic warfare, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) tasks. This adaptability is crucial for modern military needs.
Testing the Technology
The demonstration project will evaluate the advanced systems of BAE’s military XLAUV aboard one of cellula Robotics’ underwater platforms. These trials are scheduled to occur at a facility located on England’s southern coast.

The Importance of Underwater Security
Recent incidents of underwater aggression have underscored the strategic significance of the marine environment, highlighting the necessity to safeguard vital national infrastructure and the challenges that accompany this task. Autonomous systems like Herne could play a pivotal role in assisting military forces to navigate the vast underwater landscape, enabling extensive area monitoring without the constraints of human crews, all while being more cost-effective.
Expert Insights
Scott Jamieson, Managing Director of Maritime Services at BAE Systems, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “this marks a meaningful milestone as it will be the first instance of a UK company testing advanced autonomous capabilities in this domain. Collaborating with Cellula Robotics, we aim to develop a solution that is faster, more capable, and more economical for our clients, ultimately enhancing the protection of critical national assets.”
eric Jackson, President of Cellula Robotics Ltd, added, “As we embark on this innovative partnership with BAE Systems, we acknowledge the essential role that autonomous platforms play in tackling the evolving challenges of the underwater realm. Recent incidents of underwater aggression highlight the urgency of protecting our critical underwater infrastructure.”
“We are excited to work alongside BAE Systems and anticipate the upcoming demonstration, which will pave the way for improved underwater security and intelligence capabilities.”
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