Gabler, a supplier of submarine systems, has entered into a strategic partnership with FLANQ to co-develop uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) intended for submarine torpedo tubes launch.
This partnership aims to provide sub-surface deployed USVs for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions and single-use tactical operations.
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These USVs are aimed at being compatible with standard submarine torpedo tubes, allowing for stealthy deployment without the need for diver intervention.
The two companies will develop and manufacture both single-use and reusable models of USVs, and engage with suppliers and industrial partners across Europe.
Single-use variants are intended for missions such as precision strikes, while reusable models will facilitate prolonged ISR tasks with retrieval possibilities through either the host platforms or surface resources.
FLANQ chief commercial officer and co-founder Daniel Esser said: “The development of these platforms comes at a pivotal time for European and allied naval forces. Our rapidly produced USVs with their Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) payloads from sovereign partners –paired with Gabler’s know-how in submarine engineering and operations – will help deliver persistent ISR and tactical reach at scale, speed and value.”
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By GlobalDataAs part of the agreement, Gabler will take charge of system integration, commercialisation, and delivery to navies across the world, while FLANQ will manage design, manufacturing, and payload integration.
This joint venture aims to address the growing demand among European and NATO naval forces for autonomous systems that can operate effectively in challenging maritime scenarios.
According to Gabler, submarines will be able to deploy low-cost USVs across various missions without sacrificing stealth capabilities.
Gabler business development manager Lennart Glas said: “Today’s announcement on the opening day of DALO 25 – the largest defence industry exhibition in Scandinavia – reflects our shared commitment to strengthening European and allied undersea defence capabilities at pace and cost.
“By combining FLANQ’s strengths in autonomy, sensor payloads, and rapid manufacturing with Gabler’s six decades of expertise in high-reliability submarine systems, we are fully focussed on delivering mission-specific USVs ready for in theatre testing and evaluation at the earliest opportunity.”
Earlier in August 2025, FLANQ entered a memorandum of understanding with the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI) to deliver autonomous maritime capabilities.
