Unmanned underwater drones are being tested at Gotland

The Defense Materiel Administration is investigating whether the craft, so-called gliders, can be used for reconnaissance in the shallow waters of the Baltic Sea.

- We have a pretty good grasp of the surface, but now we are testing how these work in our waters, says Elin Nolander, engineer at FMV.

Two of the craft are smaller. The third is larger and has a long tail with microphones that should provide longer range. The craft follow a predetermined route and surface to communicate and report what they have discovered.

Will find an underwater target

During the tests at Gotland, the craft are given a special target to search for.

- We will bring in another underwater vehicle, and that is the one they will find, says Elin Nolander.

According to FMV, the technology can in the long term supplement surveillance from ships and submarines, among other things. In the Baltic Sea there are both important trade routes and cables and wires for energy and communication.

But whether the craft will be used by the Armed Forces is not yet clear. First, the tests will show how the technology works and how long the batteries last in the current conditions.

- It's probably not impossible, but first test and see if it works, says Elin Nolander.