The Australian Maritime College recently hosted future Australian Navy autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) pilots for a two-week course in Sydney.
As a first of its kind, the course was designed to prepare future AUV pilots to conduct activities as part of a new Navy counter-mine project.
Conducted at HMAS Penguin’s Pittwater annex in Sydney, the course taught participants from Mine Warfare Team 16 and the Royal Australian Navy Hydrographic School how to handle, maintain and operate the vehicles effectively and safely.
Participants used their knowledge to conduct 15 hours of AUV missions using two Teledyne-Gavia man-portable AUVs, including one provided by AMC. They also processed and analysed the data collected during the missions.
Commanding Officer Mine Warfare Team 16 Lieutenant Commander Ryan Carmichael said the experience was invaluable for the Navy personnel.
“As part of our AUV development program, it’s important for us to maximise opportunities to engage with and learn from organisations already operating these vehicles, such as the Australian Maritime College,” Lieutenant Commander Carmichael said.