According to information published by Dorothee Frank on October 9, 2024, the German Navy is expanding its use of unmanned systems beyond aerial dimensions, now focusing on autonomous solutions for anti-submarine warfare (ASW).
Currently, the BlueWhale, an autonomous submarine system (ASS) developed by Israeli company Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), is undergoing trials near Eckernförde. These tests are cheduled to continue through November, according to sources from CPM Defence Network.
Given the growing underwater capabilities of Russia, the BlueWhale could serve as a force multiplier, enhancing Germany’s naval defense capacity. Preliminary results from the ongoing tests, conducted in cooperation with the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), have been described as highly promising.