The German Navy, in collaboration with NATO and Atlas Elektronik, has concluded operational testing for Israel Aerospace Industries‘ (IAI) BlueWhale autonomous submarine in the Baltic Sea.  

The trials focused on intelligence gathering and target acquisition capabilities, aligning with the Marine 2035 framework, according to IAI’s LinkedIn post

The BlueWhale autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) underwent testing based on the requirements set by both the Navy and the Bundeswehr Technical Centre for Ships and Naval Weapons. 

IAI unveiled the BlueWhale AUV last year, marking the first Israeli-developed uncrewed submarine. 

The BlueWhale AUV is 10.9 metres (m) long and weighs 5.5 tonnes (t). It is transportable by land, air, and sea, fitting seamlessly within a standard 40ft shipping container for quick deployment. 

It features advanced sensors, sonar systems, and a telescopic mast for real-time information transfer.  

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The system’s mast features a patented container that protects the sensors and equipment, even when submerged. 

The AUV is designed for missions ranging from anti-submarine warfare to mine countermeasures, gathers intelligence in both open seas and challenging littoral waters. 

BlueWhale can detect and track subsurface and surface targets, processing data onboard to provide actionable intelligence in real-time.  

Its high-efficiency battery bank ensures endurance for continuous operation over weeks. 

These trials demonstrated the effectiveness of integrating uncrewed vessels in military operations.  

The company said: “Just as unmanned vehicles have changed aerial warfare, new submarine technology is poised to change warfare at sea.” 

IAI holds the largest share of the Middle Eastern naval radar market, according to GlobalData’s ‘The Global Naval Radar Market 2019-2029’ report.  

The company is projected to generate $237.5m in revenue from 2019 to 2029. 

This development follows the agreement to supply the Arrow missile defence system. 

IAI noted that: “After the agreement to supply the Arrow missile defence system, we are now pleased to further deepen military cooperation between Israel and Germany, enhancing the defence capabilities of both countries.”