NATO’s push to modernise its underwater warfare capabilities has taken a decisive step forward with the selection of the Saab-led MANGROVE consortium to spearhead the Allied Underwater Battlespace Mission Network (AUWB-MN) project. This initiative, part of NATO’s broader Digital Ocean and Antisubmarine Warfare Barrier Smart Defence Initiative, aims to revolutionise interoperability between crewed and uncrewed maritime systems across allied naval forces. The project, which kicked off in September 2025, is already making waves, with a consortium of 12 nations—led by the U.K., Sweden, the U.S., Australia, and others—committed to adopting the standard it develops.
The AUWB-MN project is no small feat. It’s designing a Reference Architecture and a Test and Reference Environment for a mission network that integrates systems above, on, and below the water. The goal? Rapid, secure information exchange and seamless integration across domains, enabling combined operations for all branches of the military. If successful, this network could set a new standard for NATO, reshaping how allies operate in the underwater battlespace.
Saab’s business area Kockums is at the helm of the MANGROVE consortium, a powerhouse of expertise that includes CETENA and IDS (part of Fincantieri Group), FlySight, GraalTech, Miraya, Saab UK, BlueBear, S2IX, and the University of Plymouth. Mats Wicksell, head of Saab’s business area Kockums, underscored the project’s strategic importance: “Saab is delighted to lead this pivotal project for NATO. All of the MANGROVE consortium’s expertise and collaborative focus for the next 12 months will be on the successful development of a mission network for NATO’s operations in the underwater battlespace. As all aspects of the underwater domain grow in their strategic significance, this will be a critical contribution to our collective maritime security and defense.”
The stakes are high. The underwater domain is becoming increasingly complex, with advancements in uncrewed systems, autonomous vehicles, and sensor technologies. NATO’s ability to integrate these systems into a cohesive, interoperable network will be crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. The AUWB-MN project is a direct response to this challenge, aiming to bridge the gap between traditional naval platforms and cutting-edge uncrewed systems.
David Burton, Project Director for NATO’s Antisubmarine Warfare Barrier Smart Defence Initiative, echoed this sentiment: “The AUWB-MN project is a significant step forward in the modernization of our warfighting capabilities and the ability for NATO allies to operate effectively together in the underwater domain of the future. We are confident that Saab and the Mangrove consortium will deliver a robust and effective mission network that strengthens NATO’s maritime defense.”
The consortium’s approach is collaborative and forward-thinking. By bringing together industry leaders, academic institutions, and military expertise, the project is poised to deliver a solution that is both innovative and practical. The integration of uncrewed systems into traditional naval operations is not just about technology—it’s about rethinking how forces operate together. The AUWB-MN network will need to be flexible, scalable, and secure, capable of adapting to the evolving threats and capabilities of the underwater domain.
This project also highlights the growing importance of international cooperation in defence. With 12 nations backing the initiative, the AUWB-MN project is a testament to the shared commitment of NATO allies to enhance their collective security. The adoption of a common standard will not only improve interoperability but also streamline procurement and development efforts, reducing duplication and accelerating innovation.
As the project moves forward, the maritime industry will be watching closely. The success of the AUWB-MN network could set a precedent for future defence projects, demonstrating the power of collaboration and the critical role of technology in modern warfare. For NATO, this is more than just a project—it’s a strategic investment in the future of maritime defence. And for the MANGROVE consortium, it’s a chance to shape the next generation of underwater warfare capabilities.