The Australian government has decided to support Australia’s maritime security with a $176 million investment to deliver 40 new Australian-designed and built Bluebottle uncrewed surface vessels (USV).
The contract with Ocius Technology expands the Australian Navy’s operational fleet to 55 Bluebottles, to boost long-range intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capability across Australia’s vast maritime domain.
The Bluebottle, developed in partnership with the navy and initially funded through the Defence Innovation Hub, is a long-endurance USV powered by solar, wind and wave energy. It provides persistent surface and sub-surface surveillance, can carry payloads and operates as part of a teamed, integrated maritime force.
“The Bluebottle is an innovative platform designed, developed and manufactured right here in Australia. This is an excellent example of Defence and industry working together to deliver cutting-edge capability,” Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said.
“The Albanese Government’s investment in Ocius Technology and their Bluebottle USV has accelerated the delivery of the autonomous systems for Navy. Over the next five years and beyond, Bluebottle will monitor Australia’s maritime approaches and strengthen Defence’s ability to protect our national security interests.”
“With this world-leading technology, we are able to increase surveillance of Australia’s northern approaches and respond to increasing maritime threats. Accelerated development of autonomous capabilities will be fundamental as we navigate this new era of global uncertainty,” Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy stated.
To remind, back in 2023, Australia received the first Bluebottle USVs.