Herne has been configured to provide militaries with a cost-effective option for operations such as anti-submarine warfare, covert surveillance and the protection of seabed infrastructure. Operating without the need for resupply or life support, it can work independently or alongside crewed platforms, delivering long-term underwater presence at greater scale and lower cost than traditional submarines.
“The trials last year were a huge success and I’m delighted that we’re building on that momentum with this new collaboration agreement to maintain the phenomenal pace at which we’re developing Herne,” said Scott Jamieson, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Maritime & Land Defence Solutions business. “It’s a game changer in the underwater battlespace and will enable us to offer our customers a cost-effective autonomous capability providing them with more endurance, efficiency and scale, whilst keeping their people out of harm’s way.”
Neil Manning, Chief Executive Officer of Cellula Robotics Ltd, said: “Herne, the result of this partnership, embodies the fusion of cutting-edge engineering from both companies to create a platform with unmatched endurance and operability, setting it apart from others in the field. At Cellula, we believe Herne, powered by our hydrogen-based energy solution, represents a cost-effective force multiplier. It helps to fill an essential gap, complementing navies’ operational needs while seamlessly integrating with other marine defense systems. Cellula is honored to be selected by BAE Systems, recognising their foresight and vision in forming this partnership.”
The collaboration has produced a “whiteboard to water” capability in just 11 months, with trials held in the UK and Canada throughout 2024. The results have driven design improvements, and both companies are continuing development towards the goal of a fully market-ready craft by the end of 2026.