A submarine as a platform for unmanned surface vehicles
Germany is making a breakthrough in the field of marine technology by developing the world's first unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV), which can be launched directly from a submarine. This innovation will allow underwater forces to conduct reconnaissance and operations with minimal risk while remaining hidden underwater.
The new generation of USV is being developed as part of a partnership between the German naval company Gabler and the Danish company FLANQ, specializing in marine robotics. The agreement was announced at the DALI Industry Days 2025 conference in Ballerup, Denmark, highlighting the growing integration of European defense contractors in the field of autonomous systems.
Gabler and FLANQ Partnership: technologies of the future
A key feature of the project will be the adaptation of standard submarine torpedo tubes to launch drones. This means that existing submarines will be able to use their regular infrastructure without the need for deep modernization. After launch, the USV will be able to autonomously carry out missions on the surface, leaving the submarine in a safe zone.
FLANQ provides advanced solutions in autonomous control and energy efficiency, while Gabler provides expertise in integrating systems into naval platforms. The joint development is aimed at creating a compact, reliable and scalable solution for a modern fleet.
Silent reconnaissance and strike capabilities
Unmanned vehicles launched from submarines will be able to perform a wide range of tasks, from coastal exploration and navigation monitoring to electronic reconnaissance and, if necessary, precision strikes. Due to their autonomy and low visibility, USVs are ideal for operations in difficult and potentially hostile waters.
A special advantage is the preservation of the submarine's stealth. Instead of surfacing and risking detection, the submarine can remotely launch a drone that will complete the task and transmit the data back.
A breakthrough in a new generation of underwater warfare
The development opens a new chapter in the evolution of underwater warfare. The transformation of torpedo tubes into universal launchers for autonomous systems marks the transition from purely attack platforms to "wombs" controlling a swarm of drones. This approach enhances operational flexibility, expands the area of control and increases the survival of underwater forces.
If the tests are successful, Germany will become one of the first countries in the world to implement such technology in a real combat infrastructure.
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