The Royal Navy of the UK is considering a return to the age of sail with a new demonstration involving a fleet of small, wind-propelled robot boats. These vessels, known as C-Stars and manufactured by Oshen in Plymouth, UK, are compact at 1.2 meters in length and 40 kilograms in weight. They are equipped with solar panels for powering navigation, communication, and sensors, while a sail provides propulsion. When deployed as a constellation, these small boats function as a wide-area sensor network.
Anahita Laverack, the CEO of Oshen, describes C-Stars as self-deploying, station-keeping ocean buoys. These boats can sail at a speed of about 2 knots, covering approximately 50 miles per day, or use the wind to maintain their position without drifting. In a recent trial, a larger robotic vessel transported three C-Stars to a designated area, where they relayed acoustic signals to and from an uncrewed submarine. The goal is to deploy numerous C-Stars in live operations to create a more extensive surveillance network.
These uncrewed boats have the capability to remain at sea for over six months and withstand severe sea conditions. In a groundbreaking achievement, C-Stars provided real-time data from inside a category 5 hurricane as part of a research project with the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. If successful, these robot sailboats could serve various roles, including communication with submarines, detection of ships, incoming missiles, or drones, and submarine detection using hydrophones to listen for subs or detect sonar pings from warships.
Blair Thornton from the University of Southampton acknowledges the gradual acceptance of solar- and wind-powered uncrewed vessels over the last decade. He emphasizes the importance of autonomy in managing fleets of such vessels efficiently. The upcoming demonstration aims to demonstrate the seamless integration of C-Stars with existing navy systems, with the potential for Oshen to deliver 1000 boats within nine months if the navy decides to place an order. Future developments will focus on software enhancements to achieve better coverage with fewer C-Stars.
In conclusion, the innovative technology of C-Stars represents a significant advancement in maritime surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. With their long endurance, autonomous operations, and adaptability for various naval tasks, these robot sailboats could revolutionize the way navies conduct operations at sea.
