Defence 16 February 2026 - 13 May 2026

BAE Systems and Thales are teaming up to fit a new intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mast onto BAE’s Herne XLAUV — that’s the company’s extra-large autonomous underwater vehicle. They’re eyeing a 2027 demo, targeting expanded sub-surface capabilities for navies. ISR covers the sensor tech that gathers and relays information from the field. Timing is key here. Western navies want eyes on contested waters but aren’t keen to risk crewed subs or ships sitting exposed for long stretches. Thales points out that autonomous vessels—from drone boats on the surface to larger unmanned subs—are reshaping how these so-called “hybrid navies” carry out missions. “The systems need the sharpest possible eyes from beneath the waves,” said Tommy Cowan, who heads Thales’ sea business