Royal Navy Launches Autonomous Vehicles from Submarine in Pioneering Trial

The Royal Navy has been undertaking ground-breaking trials to demonstrate the launch and recovery of uncrewed underwater vehicles from submarines. The torpedo tube launched vehicles will increase the capability options for UK nuclear-powered attack submarines and support underwater reconnaissance, underwater communications, and seabed warfare missions.


HMS Astute crashes through the waves as it surfaces for photographs with the UK Carrier Strike Group 2025. Aerial imagery of the UK CSG25 Op Highmast Task Group taken from a Wildcat of 815 Naval Air Squadron. (Crown Copyright)


A recent trial in the Mediterranean, under Project Scylla, demonstrated successful launch and recovery of the vehicles.

Project Scylla is being delivered through AUKUS Pillar 2, which develops advanced capabilities to benefit both Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic security.

This trial is a demonstration of the pace at which new capabilities can be developed when working closely with international partners.

Commodore Marcus Rose, Deputy Director Underwater Battlespace Capabilities, said: “Delivery of these trials demonstrates our commitment to the use of advanced capabilities as part of a future hybrid Fleet and are a big step forward in delivering new capability to the Submarine Service.”

As part of its Atlantic Bastion ambition the Royal Navy is committed to delivering advanced capabilities to the front line. This includes autonomous systems and artificial intelligence to increase the warfighting capabilities of the Fleet.

The trial was delivered by the Submarine Delivery Agency’s Autonomy Unit in partnership with L3Harris.



Location: UK