Surveillance: Water drones to shadow freighters and recognise flying objects

The security situation in Europe is considered tense: Drone flights over critical infrastructure and the Russian shadow fleet on the sea routes highlight existing weaknesses in the European security infrastructure. Various technical solutions are therefore coming into focus. One current example is special unmanned boats from Denmark that can accompany freighters and document possible drone launches.

Development from Denmark

The "ProZero" units were developed by the Danish manufacturer Tuco Marine. The so-called Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USV) are equipped with different sensors and can cover several areas at the same time.

With radar, AIS and cameras

Radar, AIS and cameras provide a detailed image of the water surface, while a drone radar and HF scanner monitor the airspace. Sonars and hydrophones also make it possible to detect underwater activity. The boats are unarmed and similar to other water drones designed for monitoring.

Seamless monitoring

The combination of the systems makes it possible to fully and autonomously document suspicious manoeuvres at sea. According to the manufacturer, the boats can track changes in the target ship's course, sail at a safe distance and seamlessly record suspicious activities. The aim is to detect potential threats at an early stage so that the navy and coastguard can assess suspicious behaviour more quickly.

Modular equipment

The ProZero units are around eight metres long, made of composite materials and can be equipped with different sensor and communication systems on a modular basis. The boats can also be configured with different drive systems.