Exail Secures Contract for DriX H-8 USVs
Exail has announced a new contract to supply a fleet of five DriX H-8 uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) to a yet-to-be-named European nation. These advanced USVs will be utilized for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, showcasing Exail’s commitment to enhancing maritime security capabilities across Europe.
The DriX H-8 was initially designed for hydrographic tasks but has since evolved to integrate a variety of payloads, allowing it to gather high-quality data in both shallow and deep waterways. Details regarding the financial aspects of the deal and the specific European country involved have not been disclosed.
Strategic Importance of Unmanned Maritime Capabilities
Jérôme Bendell, who heads Exail’s Maritime Systems division, expressed gratitude for the trust demonstrated by the European partner. He emphasized that this contract underscores the increasing strategic necessity for unmanned maritime ISR capabilities. Bendell remarked that the selection of DriX for this purpose reflects its reputation for maturity, reliability, and significant operational impact.
He further noted, “At Exail, we remain committed to advancing innovation in support of global maritime security,” highlighting the company’s dedication to improving technologies that enhance surveillance and reconnaissance missions on the high seas.
Specifications of the DriX H-8
The DriX H-8 USV is designed for remote-controlled and supervised autonomous operation, maintaining functionality even in challenging sea conditions up to level 5. The craft boasts impressive capabilities, able to travel at speeds of 14 knots (approximately 26 km/h or 16 mph) for 24 hours straight.
For longer missions, it can sustain a speed of 7 knots (around 13 km/h or 8 mph) over a period of 7 days or engage in a 10-day mission at a reduced speed of 4 knots (about 7.4 km/h or 4.6 mph). With a length of 7.71 meters (25.29 feet) and a weight of 1.4 tons (30,800 lbs), this USV is both compact and powerful, featuring a draft of 2 meters (6.56 feet) and powered by a robust 38HP diesel engine.
Fuel Efficiency and Operational Range
The DriX H-8 is built for efficiency, equipped with a fuel capacity of 250 liters (66 gallons) and an average fuel consumption rate of 2 liters (0.5 gallons) per hour. This design allows for extended operational range, maximizing the vehicle’s mission duration and reducing downtime.
This combination of speed, operational time, and fuel efficiency makes the DriX H-8 an invaluable asset for maritime missions, where reliability and endurance are paramount.
