US-based defense technology company Vatn Systems and Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore joint projects focused on autonomous underwater capabilities for Taiwan’s naval modernization efforts.
Under the agreement, the two parties will examine opportunities related to autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), artificial intelligence-enabled command-and-control systems, systems integration, and sustainment capabilities in Taiwan.
According to Vatn Systems, the collaboration could include the deployment of AUVs such as the company’s S12 platform, the development of AI-enabled command-and-control technologies, and the establishment of supply chain and maintenance support infrastructure in Taiwan.
The initiative is intended to support Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense as it expands interest in autonomous and unmanned maritime systems.
Vatn said its modular approach to undersea autonomy allows AUVs to be configured for different operational requirements, including range, accuracy, and sensor payloads, while aiming to reduce costs compared to traditional systems.
The announcement follows the recent introduction of SIGURD, Vatn’s autonomous mine countermeasure system built on the company’s Skelmir S6 platform.
Founded in 2023, Vatn Systems develops autonomous underwater vehicles for military, allied, and commercial applications. NCSIST is Taiwan’s government-backed research and development organization responsible for the development, production, and support of defense systems and dual-use technologies.
Last year, the company entered into a strategic partnership with Palantir Technologies to further digitize and scale its manufacturing capabilities. As part of the partnership agreement, Vatn Systems plans to use Palantir’s advanced software platform to digitize the manufacturing process and provide AI-driven insights that will accelerate the production of underwater vehicles for national security