Poly Technologies showcased their new underwater drone, the UUV300CB, with a scale model displaying its internal structure with a cutaway. Officials at the booth revealed that the UUV300CB is currently in the development phase and comes in several variants.
Accompanying the display was a video presentation detailing the specifications, capabilities, and potential operational concepts (CONOPS) of the UUV300CB in various scenarios.
The UUV300CB is a large, multifunctional underwater drone capable of autonomously executing missions such as surface reconnaissance and mine laying. Another variant known as UUV300CD features torpedo launchers on both the starboard and port sides.
Measuring 11.5 meters in length with a diameter of 1.6 meters, the drone boasts a full load weight of 50 tons. Propelled by an electric engine, it achieves a top speed of 12 knots. Operating at depths of up to 300 meters, it boasts a range of 450 nautical miles at 5 knots.
Equipped with satellite communication, UHF, and acoustic capabilities, the UUV300CB maintains a low acoustic signature, emitting less than 140 dB. Its optronic periscope enables target detection, identification, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
Capable of carrying sea mines and smaller UUVs, the UUV300CB can also fire lightweight torpedoes, as demonstrated by its UUV300CD variant. Although not explicitly stated, the promotional video hints at the drone’s potential to carry and launch land attack missiles from a concealed cell located at the rear of the drone.
H.I. Sutton, an OSINT expert and Naval News contributor, pointed out the mysterious Chinese XLUUV spotted with satellite imagery on July 31 2022 by Maxar Technologies and underlined that the product may be realistic.
“Overall, this is a realistic product that shows the clear direction of development towards armed underwater drones. China is likely to be the first to export this technology, which could rebalance the naval landscape.”
H. I. Sutton, OSINT expert (CovertShores)
CONOPS of the UUV according to the video presentation
In the scenario depicted in the promotional video, a helicopter and a UUV300CD are deployed to an area to detect an enemy submarine within the region of interest. Upon detection by the helicopter’s dipping sonar, the UUV proceeds to the location and confirms the presence of the submarine using its passive sonar, subsequently engaging it with two torpedoes.
After successfully neutralizing the submarine, the UUV receives orders to proceed to the enemy base for reconnaissance and surveillance. Accompanied by another UUV300CB, they head to the designated area. The UUV300CB inadvertently damages a harbour defence boat with mines, prompting the UUV300CD to sink it with two torpedoes.
Subsequently, the UUVs utilize missiles from their vertical launchers to obliterate targets on land.
Author’s comment
With the integration of UUVs into naval warfare, defending fleets and bases will face heightened challenges. UUVs present a formidable threat due to their limited underwater detection capabilities and their ability to evade fixed underwater systems, thanks to their small size and quiet operation compared to submarines.
Furthermore, as UUV capabilities expand, naval warfare becomes increasingly complex. If communication hurdles are overcome, UUVs capable of reconnaissance, surveillance, and engagement missions over longer distances will significantly enhance the effectiveness of naval operations.
Poly Technologies’ product promises ambitious capabilities. However, while the inclusion of torpedo engagement and a vertical launcher adds significant versatility, the practical realization of such features may pose challenges. Any analysis of its effectiveness remains incomplete until demonstrated in real-world applications.
