The MERCURY AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) has been customized for mine countermeasure mission (MCM) for the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). The MERCURY has a modular design that can be fitted for different operational requirements. In the MCM role, it has been optimized for underwater surveys and can provide high-quality seabed data. In a collaboration with the defense scientists from the Defence Science Organisation (DSO) and Defence Science Technology Agency (DSTA), the MERCURY has been enhanced with improved endurance and detection capabilities. There is no need to retrieve the AUV for manual data processing. The AUV is able to process sonar images in real time and then transmits the information at pre-set surfacing intervals. The MERCURY AUV is one of the world’s smallest AUVs to be fitted with a sophisticated
High-Frequency Synthetic Aperture Sonar, which can capture high-resolution images of underwater objects in challenging conditions.
The MERCURY AUV is not tethered and carries out its missions autonomously. This allows it to cover a much larger area, go deeper or operate at a longer standoff range from the launch vessel. Multiple vehicles can also be operated cooperatively for better operational effectiveness. The AUV is easily deployed from shore or any Craft of Opportunity without the need for specialized handling equipment.
ST Engineering
Pioneer Magazine
