Greek Navy to Enhance Capabilities with "Blue Whale" Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
The Greek website Epikaira reports that the Greek Navy intends to purchase at least 10 "Blue Whale" autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). The goal is to enhance the Greek Navy’s capabilities, particularly in intelligence gathering and counter-submarine operations.
According to the report, the version of the AUV proposed by IAI is tailored to the operational characteristics of the Aegean Sea. This AUV leaves a minimal detection signature, incorporating stealth technology. Additionally, its relatively small size—measuring just 11 meters in length—allows it to "hide" among rocky islands or near passing ships, making it nearly invisible to enemy radar.
In the eyes of the Hellenic Navy, these AUVs are intended not only to address Turkish threats but also to play a crucial role in securing Greece's Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) in the Aegean Sea. They will monitor and report in real-time to the National Operations Center of the Greek Ministry of Defense, tracking both the movements of the Turkish fleet and underwater threats.
The "Blue Whale" is a miniature submarine, measuring 10.9 meters in length, 1.12 meters in diameter, and weighing 5.5 tons. It is powered by electricity and can reach a maximum speed of 7 knots, remaining on patrol for at least 10 days or longer. The AUV is equipped with a variety of sensors, including radar, cameras, towed sonar, magnetic anomaly detectors, and satellite communications for real-time data transmission. It can operate at shallow depths, semi-submerged, or with only its electronics protruding above the sea surface.
https://www.israeldefense.co.il/en/node/64978
