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A6K French Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV)

A6K

Autonomous Surface Vehicle (ASV)
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Basic Information
Name
A6K French Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV)
Designation
A6K
Alternate Designation
A6K
Equipment Type
Autonomous Surface Vehicle (ASV)
Manufacturer
Exail
Date of Introduction
2023
Description

The A6K French Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) is a state-of-the-art solution tailored to tackle the most demanding underwater challenges. Designed to operate at depths of up to 6,000 meters, the A6K features a large payload section, enabling it to conduct deep-sea surveys and inspection missions with impressive hovering capability. Ultra-deepwater environments pose unique challenges due to extreme pressure and the vast, often unexplored underwater terrain. These conditions make exploration difficult, yet they also present vital opportunities for scientific and technological advancement. Deep-sea exploration plays a crucial role in enhancing surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities while deepening our understanding of marine ecosystems and environmental conditions, which is essential for progress in the maritime and defense sectors. The A6K not only provides long-endurance surveying but also offers precise low-altitude hovering, making it ideal for missions that require stability and detailed exploration. It is derived from the Ulyx AUV, which is currently in operation with Ifremer, France's leading oceanographic institute. The A6K is designed to perform a variety of tasks, including: - Underwater surveys - Pipeline and subsea cable inspections - Search and rescue operations Its versatility and reliability make the A6K an indispensable tool for deep-sea exploration, marine security, and scientific research. With advanced autonomy, this ultra-deepwater AUV can adapt its mission based on collected data, allowing for in-depth analysis of specific areas before resuming operations. Its unique design enables it to navigate close to the seabed for precise imaging and measurements while maintaining stability.

Naval & Littoral Specifications
Beam 1.60 m
System
Alternative Designation A6K
Type Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV)
Builder Exail
Crew Unmanned
Payloads **Payload Options:** - Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS) or Side Scan Sonar (SSS) - Multibeam Echo Sounder (MBES) - High-Resolution Camera - Conductivity, Temperature, Depth (CTD) Sensor - Sub-Bottom Profiler (SBP) - Environmental Sensors - Volume Search Sonar (VSS) - Laser - Magnetometer - Large Customizable Payload Section
Features **FEATURES** - Unique dual-mode survey and inspection capability down to 6,000 meters - Long endurance - Hovering capabilities - Real-time target detection - Automatic close-range inspection initiated during surveys - Large and modular payload section - Multi-mission capabilities supported by a wide range of sensors: SAS, MBES, cameras, etc. - Multi-payload capacity allowing simultaneous operation - Ease of maintenance through lateral openings - Intuitive software for mission planning, supervision, data acquisition, and processing - Containerized in 20-foot ISO containers, including command and control (C2), launch and recovery systems (LARS), and spare parts - Air transportable
Dimensions
Length 4.5 m
Height 1.2 m
Beam 1.6 m
Displacement, Full Load 3,000 kg
Propulsion System
Engine Name INA
Engine Type 2 main thrusters + 4 auxiliary thrusters for hovering
Engine Power INA
Maximum Range INA
Maximum Depth 6,000 m
Maximum Speed 5 knots
Normal Speed 3 knots
Inspection Speed 1 knots
Endurance Up to 30 hours according to mission profile and payloads.
Protection
Hull INA
Details
Country of Origin France
Category Naval
Naval
Filter Label
A
Classification
Domain
Naval & Littoral
Equipment Status
Active
Dimensions
Length
4.5 m
Width
1.6 m
Height
1.2 m
Weight
3000 kg
Operators (1)
France
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