Thales Australia has developed Blue Sentry, a semi-autonomous sonar system designed to detect and track maritime threats such as narco-submarines, underwater drones, and boats. The system operates in a 'wolf pack' configuration, enabling persistent surveillance of extensive coastlines.
The US Navy successfully tested Blue Sentry during a 26-day deployment off the Californian coast. This integration with Saildrone's uncrewed vessels signifies enhanced naval interoperability within the AUKUS partnership.
The project aligns with AUKUS Pillar 2, focusing on technology cooperation between Australia, the US, and the UK in areas such as underwater drones, artificial intelligence, and deep-space technology. This collaboration aims to improve maritime security and counter threats like drug trafficking and people smuggling.
Australia's vast and vulnerable coastline presents a significant challenge. Blue Sentry offers a powerful capability to detect and track threats in real-time, addressing concerns regarding drug cartels using narco-subs to circumvent law enforcement.