Exail is expanding its portfolio of autonomous solutions for both commercial and defense markets with the sale of its long-range uncrewed surface vehicle (USV), the DriX H-9, to a leading global hydrographic authority.
The new H-9 model, built on the success of the DriX H-8, offers extended autonomous endurance of up to 20 days. It also features increased payload capacity and enhanced flexibility, enabling it to support a diverse array of maritime missions.
Designed to address the growing demand for persistent, over-the-horizon (OTH) surveys, the DriX H-9 minimizes offshore logistics while extending operational reach, key requirements in sectors such as offshore energy and subsea infrastructure and naval surveillance.
The H-9 can carry multiple geophysical sensors simultaneously, such as side scan sonar, magnetometer, multi-beam echo sounder and sub-bottom profilers. Its aft launch and recovery system enables deployment of towed sensors and inspection class remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), supporting tasks such as seabed mapping and infrastructure inspection. An adaptable mast allows integration of additional sensors such as optical systems and advanced communications equipment, for maritime domain awareness missions.
Like the DriX H-8, the H-9 features a gondola architecture optimized for hydroacoustic sensors, ensuring high-quality, stable data collection. A common architecture framework across the DriX Series further simplifies fleet integration, enabling shared spares and streamlined maintenance.
Sébastien Grall, Head of Maritime Autonomy Activity, commented, “With this sale of the H-9, alongside the recent success of the DriX O-16, the DriX series is becoming a true reality at sea — enabling operations from shallow to deep waters, with expanding endurance, the ability to embark a wide range of sensors, and the capability to launch and recover various assets.
“With its maturity, reliability, and widespread adoption by both civilian and military customers worldwide, the DriX Series continues to set the standard for high-performance USV operations and strengthens Exail’s leadership in the rapidly evolving autonomous maritime systems market.”
The DriX H-9 is scheduled to be delivered in 2026. As global interest in autonomous maritime technologies accelerates, Exail is affirming its strategic position in the USV market, delivering robust, mission-ready platforms that meet the evolving needs of operators worldwide.
