Defense giant Thales has introduced the prototype of Sonar 76Nano, a miniaturized acoustic detection system to support maritime security.
As disclosed, the sonar system can be deployed onboard a wider range of uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUV) and seabed monitoring systems rather than being limited to large high-value platforms. It builds on the legacy of Sonar 2076 and features AI-enhanced acoustic detection.
According to Thales, this artificial intelligence accelerates target identification and decision-making with ‘unprecedented precision’.
Furthermore, the system is fully compatible with existing defense infrastructure and will enhance interoperability across UK and NATO forces.
Thales revealed that on December 17, Sonar 76Nano will make its official public debut with the Royal Navy at a technology demonstrator.
“ Sonar 76Nano is a landmark innovation and a vivid demonstration of what focused ingenuity and collaboration can achieve with tight deadline . In just ten months, our world-class teams have progressed from visionary concepts to an advanced prototype that sets the stage for the next generation of underwater security and agility. As we present this innovation to the Royal Navy, we reaffirm our commitment to keeping the UK at the forefront of global maritime security ,” Paul Armstrong , Managing Director Under Water Systems, Thales in the UK, said.