|
Operational Flexibility
As demonstrated in a series of Fleet Battle Experiments, the Bluefin-21 AUV covertly gathers accurate bathymetry and bottom classifications for use in the early stages of battlespace preparation.
It can operate in a wide range of weather conditions, day or night, without compromising data accuracy and can be deployed from vessels as small as 40 feet.
On-deck turnaround is kept to under 2 hours by Bluefin’s unique battery modules, which can be swapped without opening a pressurized vessel.
A full load of fresh batteries can power the vehicle for 18 hours of survey at 3 kts, covering 150 m swathes in water depths up to 200 m.
Reprogramming is swift and accurate, thanks to Bluefin’s intuitive operator’s software.
Accurate Navigation
The Bluefin-21's high-performance and self-contained navigation system eliminates the need for acoustic beacons.
The vehicle integrates AHRS and DVL data while submerged and periodically surfaces for GPS updates. This navigation system provides excellent navigation. In US Navy exercises, Bluefin vehicles located targets accurately within a three meter radius.
Excellent Sonar Imagery
In its standard configuration the Bluefin-21 carries a high-performance 455 kHz sidescan sonar that provides a 10 cm resolution along track and a 7.5 cm resolution across track.
The combination of this high-resolution sensor and Bluefin’s exceptional navigational accuracy, result in unparalleled probability of detecting mines, covering up to 8 square nautical miles per dive.
|
