German submarine systems provider GABLER and defence technology firm FLANQ have completed the Sea Acceptance Test (SAT) for their Torpedo-Tube-Launched Uncrewed Surface Vessel (TTL USV) capability demonstrator, known as Ranger.
The test, carried out in June, confirmed the seaworthiness of the jointly developed vehicle, GABLER stated in a 14 July release.
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The trials validated the integration and functioning of the Ranger’s main technologies, with operational performance data recorded throughout testing.
The SAT represents completion of the demonstrator’s proof-of-concept phase, advancing the collaborative development launched by GABLER and FLANQ towards operational deployment.
GABLER TTL USV Project lead Felix David said: “Successfully completing the SAT marks another important milestone in the development of our TTL USV programme.
“The tests confirmed the maturity of the vehicle at this stage of development while demonstrating the excellent progress achieved by the joint team.”
The Ranger TTL USV, designed to launch from a standard 21in submarine torpedo tube, is intended to autonomously surface and conduct covert intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
The 4.5-metre Ranger platform features a folding keel and sensor mast, an electric drivetrain, and a mission-configurable payload bay.
The project combines GABLER’s experience with mission-critical submarine components and FLANQ’s background in autonomous maritime systems, AI-enabled autonomy, and mission software.
GABLER is overseeing commercialisation efforts, naval customer delivery, and integration with host platforms.
FLANQ and GABLER are also developing a one-way-attack (OWA) variant, Strike.
FLANQ chief technology officer Jannik Sauer said: “Together with our partner GABLER, we’re combining commercial-off-the-shelf technologies and operational know-how to create solutions aligned to future maritime missions.
“June’s successful SAT shows how conventional naval platforms, and next-generation autonomy can be brought together to create entirely new capabilities for domain advantage.”
