Advanced AI in Maritime Defense: Anduril's Ghost Shark
In this edition of The Engineer's Perspective. We look at Anduril's EXtra Large Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (XL-AUV)
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Table of Contents:
Overview:
Historical Development
Specifications
Concept of Operations
Systems Engineering Requirements
Implications and Future Considerations
Conclusion
References
Overview
The emergence of Extra Large Autonomous Undersea Vehicles (XL-AUVs) marks a pivotal shift in naval warfare capabilities. Unlike traditional underwater vehicles, XL-AUVs combine extended range, significant payload capacity, and advanced autonomy to revolutionize underwater operations. In this context, Anduril's Ghost Shark represents a cutting-edge addition to the Royal Australian Navy's (RAN) arsenal.
Engineered specifically for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), Anduril's Ghost Shark is an Extra Large Autonomous Undersea Vehicle (XL-AUV). Designed as a stealthy, long-range underwater autonomous platform, the Ghost Shark Anduril’s Lattice for Mission Autonomy AI system to autonomously manage complex, extended-duration missions across intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and potential strike operations. Through this AI-driven technology, Ghost Shark can operate independently, making real-time decisions that optimize mission effectiveness, even in challenging and remote underwater environments. For further adaptability, Ghost Shark has also been designed with modularity in mind, enabling integration with various payloads to flexibly respond to different mission requirements.
At the heart of Ghost Shark’s capability is Anduril's Lattice for Mission Autonomy AI software, which provides the intelligence needed for autonomous mission planning, navigation, and execution.
Lattice for Mission Autonomy AI enables Ghost Shark to engage in adaptive decision-making, adjusting parameters to handle unexpected developments without requiring human intervention. Lattice’s force multiplier is the ability for multi-platform integration and communication, supporting coordinated swarm operations with both crewed and uncrewed systems, effectively creating a collaborative, networked presence under the sea.
Historical Development
May 2022: Anduril initiated the Ghost Shark program through a A$140 million ($93.8m) co-development contract with the Australian Department of Defence. This agreement set the foundation for the development of the extra-large autonomous undersea vehicle (XL-AUV).
Late 2022: Anduril showcased an early Ghost Shark prototype at its satellite center in Sydney, demonstrating rapid progress in the program's development. This early unveiling provided stakeholders with a tangible glimpse of the XL-AUV's potential.
April 2024: Anduril achieved a significant milestone by revealing the first full Ghost Shark prototype, delivering it a year ahead of schedule and within budget. This accomplishment highlighted the efficiency and effectiveness of Anduril's development process.
August 2024: The Australian government further committed to the Ghost Shark program by announcing an additional A$26 million investment to accelerate the transition from prototyping to production. Simultaneously, plans were unveiled for constructing a dedicated Ghost Shark manufacturing facility in Australia, signaling a long-term commitment to the program and local industry development.
August 2024: Anduril secured A$1.5bn in a Series F funding round, elevating its valuation to A$14bn. This substantial investment demonstrated strong market confidence in Anduril's technologies and growth potential.
August 2024: A Ghost Shark prototype was transported to the United States for testing and participation in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. This move allowed for expanded testing capabilities and showcased the XL-AUV's potential for international collaboration and interoperability with allied forces.
Key Features
Long-range operation (up to ten days of autonomous underwater operation)
Deep-sea capability (depths up to 19,685 feet / 6,000 meters)
Modular design for mission-specific configurations
Advanced autonomous operation powered by Lattice AI
Potential for coordinated swarm operations
Stealth characteristics for covert missions
Multi-domain integration and remote-control capabilities
Specifications
Type: Extra Large Autonomous Undersea Vehicle (XL-AUV)
Physical Features
Modularity: Highly modular design with expandable payload sections for mission-specific configurations
Unique feature: Entirely floodable during operation, with key systems and sensors encased in pressurized "sanctuaries"
Performance:
Range: Described as a "very, very long-range asset," exceeding the 313nm range of the Dive-LD platform it's based on
Depth capability: Approximately 19,685 feet (6,000 meters)
Endurance: Can operate autonomously underwater for up to ten days
AI Integration:
AI Integration: Utilizes Anduril's Lattice for Mission Autonomy artificial intelligence-powered operating system
Communication: Capable of communicating with other crewed and uncrewed platforms
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