The DriX H-9 builds on the earlier DriX H-8 and is capable of operating autonomously for up to 20 days. It offers greater payload capacity and flexibility, supporting persistent over-the-horizon surveys, while reducing offshore logistics and extending operational reach in offshore energy, subsea infrastructure, and naval surveillance.
The vessel can simultaneously carry multiple geophysical sensors, including side-scan sonar, magnetometer, multi-beam echo sounder and sub-bottom profilers. Its aft launch and recovery system also enables the deployment of towed sensors and inspection-class remotely operated vehicles, facilitating missions such as seabed mapping and infrastructure inspection.
An adaptable mast provides space for optical systems and advanced communications equipment to support maritime domain awareness. Like its predecessor, the DriX H-9 uses gondola architecture optimised for hydroacoustic sensors, ensuring high-quality data collection, and a common series framework across the fleet simplifies integration, spares management, and maintenance.
“With this sale of the H-9, alongside the recent success of the DriX O-16, the DriX series is becoming a true reality at sea — enabling operations from shallow to deep waters, with expanding endurance, the ability to embark a wide range of sensors, and the capability to launch and recover various assets,” said Sébastien Grall, Head of Maritime Autonomy activity. “With its maturity, reliability, and widespread adoption by both civilian and military customers worldwide, the DriX Series continues to set the standard for high-performance USV operations and strengthens Exail’s leadership in the rapidly evolving autonomous maritime systems market.”
Delivery of the DriX H-9 is scheduled for 2026. Exail underlined that the DriX Series, introduced in 2017, has already accumulated more than 500,000 nautical miles of operations and is trusted by hydrographic agencies, navies and offshore operators across five continents for missions ranging from seabed mapping to environmental monitoring and intelligence gathering.
