![]() Suppressor X prototype | |
Class overview | |
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Builders | EMGEPRON, Tidewise |
Operators | ![]() |
Building | 1 |
General characteristics | |
Type | Unmanned surface vehicle |
Displacement | |
Length | |
Beam | |
Propulsion | |
Speed | |
Complement | None |
Sensors and processing systems | Navigation radar, 3D LIDAR, PTZ camera and hull multibeam sonar [1] [2] |
Armament | Kamikaze AUV/ROV/UAV (optional) [2] |
Unmanned surface vehicle |
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Topics |
Related topics |
The USV Suppressor is a type of unmanned surface vehicle under construction for the Brazilian Navy. Defined as a "Multi-purpose Unmanned Surface Vehicle" by EMGEPRON, the USV is intended for both civilian and military applications, ranging from hydrographic surveys and environmental monitoring to mine countermeasures, ISR and ASW roles. [2]
The USV features a navigation radar and a variety of sensors such as 360° LIDAR, FLIR cameras and a hull-mounted multibeam sonar. Additionally, Suppressor features an adaptable rear deck which can carry a ROV, AUV or UAV payload based on current mission configuration. [2] [3] The vessel may be either remotely operated or autonomously follow a pre-programmed route. [1] The USV's control station is packed in a 20-foot container, allowing for operation from vessels such as Tamandaré-class frigates. [4]
The project was developed in a partnership between state-owned enterprise EMGEPRON and Tidewise, a Rio de Janeiro-based startup focused on autonomous maritime systems. [5] It was first presented in October 2023 during the MINEX-23 Brazilian Navy exercise off the coast of Salvador, where a prototype was tasked with mine countermeasures duties. [3] [5] On 7 February 2024, EMGEPRON and Tidewise signed a contract for the construction of the first Suppressor USV, with an estimated cost of R$20 million. The unit would be built in its basic configuration, featuring navigation sensors, multibeam sonar and a ROV, as well as the development of an Application Programming Interface for communications. Delivery of the first unit is expected towards the end of 2025. [6]
A remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROUV) or remotely operated vehicle (ROV) is a free-swimming submersible craft used to perform underwater observation, inspection and physical tasks such as valve operations, hydraulic functions and other general tasks within the subsea oil and gas industry, military, scientific and other applications. ROVs can also carry tooling packages for undertaking specific tasks such as pull-in and connection of flexible flowlines and umbilicals, and component replacement. They are often used to visit wrecks at great depths beyond the capacities of submersibles for research purposes, such as the Titanic, amongst others.
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