Kraken Robotics Inc. has just taken a giant leap forward in maritime security technology, successfully demoing its KATFISH Unmanned Surface Vessel Launch and Recovery System (USV-LARS) from TKMS ATLAS UK’s ARCIMS USV. This isn’t just another tech rollout—it’s a game-changer for mine countermeasure operations and underwater infrastructure inspection.
The KATFISH USV-LARS, paired with ATLAS UK’s 11-meter ARCIMS USV, forms the industry’s first air-deployable, 300-meter depth-rated autonomous towed Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS) survey system. That’s a mouthful, but what it means is that navies can now deploy advanced, high-resolution underwater survey capabilities from the air, rapidly and cost-effectively.
The system’s footprint was designed to fit ARCIMS’ common deck interface, allowing for quick re-role and seamless integration. During the demonstration off the coast of Portland, UK, the system faced sea state three conditions, proving its robustness and readiness for real-world naval environments. This isn’t just a lab-tested prototype; it’s battle-ready tech.
The demo, held November 18-19, caught the attention of NATO navies. They witnessed the ARCIMS USV autonomously navigate and plan missions, with the KATFISH towed system collecting high-resolution SAS and bathymetric surveys in very shallow water. Data was live-streamed via satellite to a command center on shore, enabling real-time classification of contacts by operators. This level of autonomy and real-time data processing is a significant step forward in maritime security.
“This joint integration marks a major step forward in delivering agile, modular, and cost-effective mine countermeasure capabilities for modern naval operations,” said a spokesperson from Kraken Robotics. By combining ARCIMS’ proven USV with Kraken’s cutting-edge towed synthetic aperture sonar and recovery system, navies can deploy advanced technologies faster and more efficiently, strengthening maritime security in increasingly complex environments.
The KATFISH system can collect high-resolution synthetic aperture sonar data at up to a 200-meter range per side at a depth of 300 meters, with real-time data streamed at 3 cm x 3 cm resolution. The USV-LARS system is designed for small vessels, featuring an all-titanium construction for low magnetic signature and low weight. This makes it highly versatile and adaptable to various naval platforms.
The rapid mobilization of KATFISH and USV-LARS on the ARCIMS, with integration, testing, and demonstration happening over just two weeks, underscores the system’s agility and ease of deployment. This is not just about technological advancement; it’s about operational efficiency and strategic advantage.
As maritime threats evolve, so must the tools to counter them. Kraken Robotics and TKMS ATLAS UK are setting a new standard in maritime security, proving that innovation and collaboration can deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet the demands of modern naval operations. This demo isn’t just a success for the companies involved—it’s a win for global maritime security.