Long Watch R2 UUV developed

Long Watch is a highly effective UUV (Uncloned Underwater Vehicle) operated by the HCSN (and ordered by the DDS incidentally though a delivery date is yet to be set). Long Watch R2 has now been developed and will enter service in the Summer with the HCSN with existing Long Watch UUVs being upgraded at some stage.

R2 includes :

• Propeller replaced with water jet for extra stealth
• Operating depth increased to 15m (Long Watch is intended to operate just below the surface)
• Armament provision, at the start a small radio controlled mine though a small torpedo is also being developed
• Improved EO and passive sonar sensors
• Better datalinking