Defence Online

MOD and ASV Global sign agreement

Maritime October 2, 2016

ASV Global has signed a licence agreement through Ploughshare Innovations, the transfer arm of the Dstl, with UK MOD, allowing use of its Advanced Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) Capability technology.

ASV has been working with funding from Dstl and a recent showcase of MAST technology was viewed on the Thames. This licence is centred on the autonomous navigation system that enables USVs to operate safely at both high and low speeds and allows ASV Global to expand the use of the software, the intellectual property of which lies with Dstl.

©Crown Copyright

This then allows ASV Global to use this technology across its current product range. The project is a great example of defence innovation in the UK and how funding research and technology can assist both the public and private sector.

ASV Global’s Managing Director Dan Hook said: “Working with Dstl has enabled ASV Global to design and test advanced autonomous capabilities. This technology will enable ASV Global to access new market areas as well as continuing to solidify our position as the leading autonomous surface vehicle system supplier.”

Dstl’s Dr Philip Smith, Ship Systems & Integrated Survivability Programme Manager commented that whilst the technology is directed at marine environments, it could be used across a range of platforms:

There is a need for more efficient platforms with greater automated systems across all domains – air, land and sea – so there are many potential routes for this software.”

The new software developed through the licence will be showcased at the Unmanned Warrior event in the waters off Scotland in OctoberLINK, with the ASView™ control system taking part in the demonstration, along with some 40 other autonomous marine systems.

Image above: From left James Kirby, CEO Ploughshare Innovations, Dan Hook, MD ASV Global, Graham Farnsworth, IP Group Manager, Dstl.

If you would like to join our community and read more articles like this then please click here

ASV Global Dstl funding Innovation MAST MOD Ploughshare Innovations Thames Trial UK Unmanned Warrior

Post written by: Vicky Maggiani

Vicky has worked in media for over 20 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.