Australia has allocated 176 million Australian dollars ($125 million) to expand its fleet of Bluebottle uncrewed surface vessels, strengthening autonomous maritime capabilities within the Royal Australian Navy.
Under a new agreement with Ocius Technology, the government will acquire 40 additional Bluebottle USVs, bringing the navy’s total operational inventory to 55 vessels dedicated to long-range intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
Production will be carried out at Ocius’ advanced manufacturing facility in Sydney, with additional support from the company’s Hunter region production site in New South Wales.
Development and Capabilities
The Bluebottle USV was developed jointly by Ocius Technology and the Royal Australian Navy, with early financial backing from Australia’s Defence Innovation Hub.
The navy first introduced the vessels into service in 2023, using them primarily for surveillance operations in northern maritime zones and coastal border security patrols.
Powered by a hybrid system that harnesses solar, wind, and wave energy, the USV is designed for exceptional endurance at sea. On average, each vessel can remain deployed in the same area for about 75 days, while one mission has lasted over six months continuously, according to Pat Conroy.
At 6.8 meters (22 feet) in length, the platform can carry mission payloads, operate as part of a networked maritime force, and conduct persistent monitoring of both surface and subsurface activity while maintaining an acoustically quiet operating profile.
Officials are also exploring expanded roles for the platform, including deploying drones, integrating weapon systems, and coordinating with other crewed and autonomous naval assets.
