The rMCM (replacement Mine Countermeasures) program represents a transformative step in naval mine warfare capabilities for the Belgian and Royal Netherlands Navies.
Initiated in 2019, the Belgium Naval & Robotics consortium—comprising Naval Group and Exail—was tasked with delivering 12 Mine Countermeasure (MCM) vessels, approximately 100 state-of-the-art drones, and Command and Control (C2) containers.
The program’s objective is to improve operational safety and efficiency using advanced unmanned technologies.
As of 2024, the program has achieved notable milestones, including the completion of the first two sets of tools, the successful launch and testing of the first series of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), ongoing trials of various underwater drones, and the commencement of crew training for the first Belgian MCM vessel.
These developments signify substantial progress toward the program’s full deployment, targeted for 2025.
Unmanned Solutions Enhancing Mine Clearance Operations
The rMCM contract introduces an innovative stand-off methodology for mine warfare, leveraging advanced robotic systems to safeguard naval personnel in hazardous settings. Each MCM vessel functions as a mothership, equipped with UMIS (Unmanned Mine Countermeasures Integrated System), a comprehensive suite of unmanned tools, as well as sophisticated software.
This system supports diverse mine clearance missions, utilizing autonomous and remotely operated vehicles along with towed systems such as sonar and sweep technology.
Central to the system is UMISOFT, a robust software platform that manages every aspect of the operation—from mission planning and supervision to drone control, data analysis, and processing. UMISOFT connects all mission phases, ensuring seamless coordination between multiple unmanned systems.
Inspector 125 USVs in Action
A standout feature of the program is the Inspector 125, a highly adaptable USV integral to deploying and recovering drones for mine clearance. In 2024, the first two vehicles in the series underwent intensive testing in southern France and Ostend during the summer and autumn.
These tests are proving the USV’s capability to perform under challenging maritime conditions in various configurations, including the launch and recovery of the A18-M autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) and the Seascan and K-Ster drones.
Advancing Detection and Classification with AUVs and Towed Sonar
Testing is ongoing for the T18-M towed sonar and the A18-M AUV, both featuring UMISAS, Exail’s advanced interferometric synthetic aperture sonar (SAS).
These systems are designed to detect, classify, and map sea mines with precision. Trials conducted throughout 2024 demonstrated their effectiveness in challenging environments, enhancing the safety and reliability of mine clearance missions.
T18-M towed sonar equipped with UMISAS sonar for mine detection and classification
Mine Identification and Disposal Systems in Testing
The Seascan and K-Ster, key components of the Mine Identification and Disposal System (MIDS), are undergoing trials in the Mediterranean, with tests in Ostend to follow.
Seascan provides high-resolution imaging with advanced cameras and electronic scanning sonar, while K-Ster offers precise mine neutralization capabilities. As trials continue, these systems are showcasing their ability to swiftly address mine threats, contributing to safer waters for naval operations.
Training Crews for Next-Generation MCM Operations
In September 2024, initial crew training sessions for the Belgian Navy began at the Exail Academy, located at the newly developed facility in Ostend, Belgium, where the drones are assembled.
This training integrates simulated and real-world scenarios, focusing on the UMISOFT software suite, the C2 container, and hands-on MIDS training. The program aims to fully prepare crews to operate these advanced systems by the end of 2024, ahead of the full system deployment.
Training of the first Belgian crew at Exail academy in Ostend factory, Belgium
Looking Ahead: Key Milestones and Delivery Timelines
With flexible deployment options from motherships, shore bases, or ships of opportunity, the Belgian and Dutch navies are set to acquire some of the most advanced MCM capabilities globally.
Delivery of the initial drones and vital C2 containers is planned for the third quarter of 2025. A rigorous qualification process, incorporating both independent and vessel-integrated testing, will ensure the systems are fully operational by mid-2025.
Setting a New Benchmark for Modern Mine Warfare
The rMCM program is rapidly achieving critical milestones, with Exail’s unmanned systems at the forefront of mine warfare advancements. As testing progresses and deliveries align with the timeline, the Belgian and Dutch navies will soon gain access to cutting-edge mine countermeasure capabilities characterized by enhanced safety, efficiency, and robotic innovation.
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