Innovative Autonomous Launch and Recovery System unveiled by Kraken Robotics

Kraken Robotics Inc. has successfully showcased its cutting-edge Autonomous Launch and Recovery System (ALARS) designed for the KATFISH™ towed synthetic aperture sonar (SAS).

Enhanced Interoperability and Rapid Deployment

The newly developed ALARS is engineered to fit within a 20-foot International Organization for Standardization (ISO) container,significantly enhancing compatibility with various vessels. This design facilitates swift mobilization and demobilization across multi-role platforms, enabling autonomous launch and recovery operations of the KATFISH even in challenging conditions, up to Sea State 5.

Real-time Data Streaming and Demonstration Highlights

During the demonstration, attendees experienced live streaming of KATFISH SAS data aboard the vessel, which included the detection and classification of seafloor contacts in real-time. Notably, high-resolution images of the Governor cornwallis shipwreck were captured and displayed.

Additionally, both high-resolution SAS data and command information were transmitted wirelessly to shore, where they were presented to participants at the Canadian Naval Mine Countermeasures Symposium held at HMCS Scotian in Halifax, Nova Scotia, concurrently with the demonstrations.

Future Prospects and Deliveries

Kraken Robotics is set to deliver this innovative ALARS to a naval client in the Asia-Pacific region by the end of the year, marking a significant step forward in naval technology.

Expert Insights on the Demonstration

Greg Reid, President and CEO of Kraken Robotics, remarked, “This event provided an excellent platform to test our new ALARS and showcase KATFISH to key naval stakeholders. The ocean presents numerous challenges, and the launch and recovery phases pose the highest risks to both technology and personnel.”

“Participants had the chance to observe our technology in action, witnessing the advanced autonomy of the ALARS alongside the high-resolution real-time SAS data from KATFISH while on board the vessel.”

David Shea, Executive Vice President and CTO of Kraken, further emphasized, “The capability to stream live, high-resolution seafloor data to analysts and mine warfare officers in real-time from both manned and unmanned platforms is essential for contemporary naval operations.”

“We were thrilled to provide a live demonstration to both in-person and remote audiences, illustrating how bright autonomy and remote operation can enhance safety by minimizing human presence in minefields.”

“These features are integral to the KATFISH system and are continuously refined as our NATO partners utilize them in daily operations. We eagerly anticipate deploying this new ALARS with our clients.”