British defense contractor Kraken Technology Group has partnered with US company BlueHalo to integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) solutions into unmanned ground and underwater systems.
The partnership will see BlueHalo equip a variety of Kraken platforms with unique autonomous capabilities.
The project includes the low-cost, low-featured multi-mission maritime drone K3 Scout, the long-range surveillance submarine K4 Manta, and the coastal gunship K5 Kraken.
In addition to AI/ML technology, the vehicle will incorporate BlueHalo's Titan and SkyView radio frequency-based anti-drone payloads to protect Kraken's fleet from airborne threats during maritime operations.
“This expansion into the maritime domain is one of several initiatives we have planned as part of our long-term strategic vision,” said BlueHalo CEO. Jonathan Moneymaker said.
“The ability to quickly and seamlessly adapt today's cutting-edge technologies to adjacent domains allows us to innovate against our adversaries and extend BlueHalo's ring of protection.”
“Kraken's innovative spirit and passion for customer success align directly with our company's DNA, and we're excited to bring these disruptive products to that mission.”
Respond to market demand
The consortium wrote that BlueHalo's AI/ML products will be the “key core” of autonomous driving for Kraken vehicles.
This strategy enhances situational awareness, autonomous navigation, and multi-vessel swarming while supporting hybrid maritime and “marsupial” operations.
Furthermore, the combination of these technologies is expected to generate innovations in maritime autonomy and other new coastal solutions for national security applications.
“Our close partnership with BlueHalo has demonstrated clear synergies in both vision and expertise,” said Kraken Technology Group CEO. Marc Reese said.
“With this joint effort, Kraken and BlueHalo will work together to extend these innovations to other vessels and pursue even more opportunities to meet the critical needs of our customers.”
“Deploying innovative features quickly is our only goal, and this partnership will ensure we can meet the demands of an exponentially growing market.”
Recent Kraken projects
In 2023, Kraken will collaborate with defense industry partner L3Harris to Reconfiguring and modernizing the Manta submarine drone prototypefurther improves its ability to carry 2,200 pounds (1,000 kilograms) of cargo over long distances.
In 2022, the UK company signed the following agreement with Thales: Enhance K5 Kraken's maritime precision capabilities. Part of this effort includes integrating the French company's sensors and light multipurpose missiles into the vehicle.
In the same year, the Kraken Additional funding secured to support K5 gunship production. The investment was used to build a purpose-built factory in the UK to meet increasing demand for the platform.
