Subvex: Deep-Sea ISR UUV
Subvex, developed by Quantum Systems, is an AI-enabled unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) built for autonomous reconnaissance, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), and subsea monitoring. Part of the Quantum Systems Maritime Solution, Subvex combines AI processing with deep-sea durability and data sensing for persistent intelligence collection in complicated underwater environments.
Underwater awareness can get particularly challenging due to the inaccessibility of the location and the difficulty in capturing accurate data. Subvex is the solution to many of these challenges by providing better underwater intelligence capture and sensor-derived insights for a more holistic operational picture. This can be particularly useful when monitoring subsea infrastructure, as well as in maritime surveillance missions and denied environments where visibility may be compromised. Like Seavex, Subvex is also integrated with MOSAIC UXS, which helps transform data into actionable insights for maritime missions.
Underwater intelligence for subsea operations
Subvex works as part of a coordinated underwater intelligence network, which can facilitate multiple Subvex systems collaborating in sensing task management, sharing intelligence, and enhancing maritime area coverage. The technology works with Seavex mission hubs to offer energy, communications and data services, assisting autonomous docking, battery charging, safe data transfer and fast mission deployment. Its integrated MOSAIC UXS system allows for a steady flow of underwater intelligence, while its platform is perfect for a variety of underwater missions that vary from infrastructure protection to subsea data collection.
Subvex intelligence node for multiple underwater missions
Subvex applications cover a variety of underwater intelligence and surveillance operations. Its features include advanced sonar systems, onboard AI processing and hydroacoustic sensing for efficiently detecting, identifying and monitoring conditions in complex and/or difficult-to-reach subsea environments.
An integral part of Quantum Systems’ maritime technology, Subvex is ideal for monitoring and protecting critical underwater assets, sensitive maritime area surveillance, or contributing to underwater awareness networks. Equipped with one NVIDIA Jetson Thor computing module, the UUV provides advanced on-board edge processing and AI capabilities. Among its advantages are prompt object detection and classification, and a significant reduction in the use of external data links. This is achieved through vision processing via real-time data sensors and acoustic data.
Subvex is compatible with the 533mm NATO torpedo tube diameter for submarine launch and recovery, and allows for different ranges, sensors, and payload configurations. Swarm operations are accommodated with the help of low-bandwidth acoustic communications via underwater modems, efficiently assisting subsea missions in complex or denied environments.
Technical specifications
- Endurance: Up to four days
- Surveillance Speed: 3 knots
- Maximum Speed: 8 knots
- Payload: Up to 20kg
- Weight: 400kg
- Dimensions: 4.2m length, 533mm diameter (NATO torpedo tube standard)
- Operating Depth: Up to 6,000m
- Operating Sea State (Charging): Up to Sea State 3
- Survivability: Can lie on the seabed and operate in passive-surveillance mode
- Battery Capacity: 42kWh
- Data Encryption: AES-256
- Communication Links: USBL, Wi-Fi, inductive, Silvus, 5G, and Iridium
