The A18-M is a mid-size autonomous underwater vehicle developed for mine countermeasure missions, providing detection, classification, and localization of underwater threats. Designed to balance size, weight, and performance, it enables efficient deployment while delivering high-resolution seabed data. Equipped with interferometric synthetic aperture sonar, the system supports wide-area coverage, rapid environmental assessment, and automatic target recognition, allowing operators to identify and analyze objects with precision. Its architecture supports safe and effective operations in demanding naval environments, including challenging sea states.
Engineered for mission flexibility, the A18-M integrates inertial navigation with multiple communication and positioning systems to ensure accurate tracking and control throughout operations. The platform supports a range of payload options, including sonar, environmental sensors, and imaging systems, enabling adaptation to different mission requirements. With extended endurance, robust safety features, and compatibility with launch and recovery systems and containerized deployment solutions, the A18-M provides a reliable and scalable capability for naval forces conducting mine countermeasure and subsea survey operations.
Specifications:
| Body diameter: | 18" |
| Length: | 4.5 m |
| Weight: | 442 kg |
| Operational depth: | 3 to 300 m |
| Endurance: | Up to 24 h at 3 knots |
| Payloads fitted on standard version: | Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Sonar, CTD |
