Navy able to Sweep the seas for mines as drone system is accepted into service

The Royal Navy has accepted into service a series of uncrewed drones that are able to trick enemy mines into exploding harmlessly.

The aim of the new Sweep system is to hunt and detonate naval mines without putting personnel in harm's way.

Sweep pairs an uncrewed surface vessel with a sophisticated towed sensor, with the drone being controlled remotely on the surface.

• Progress made as Navy's new ballistic missile sub and Type 26 frigate take shape
• Ukrainian minehunters prepare for end of the war when skills can be used for real
• Carrier Strike Group vessels assemble as they head for massive exercise in Oz

The technology employed by this system can defeat modern digital sea mines which can detect and target ships and submarines passing nearby.

It makes the mine think there's a valid target above it, after which the mine will detonate.

Unlike a conventional minehunter, where a mine first needs to be detected then safely destroyed, the Sweep system neutralises the mine threat automatically.

Sweep has a capability called "sense and avoid", meaning it can work together with other similar autonomous systems, such as the Maritime Mine Counter Measures system and SeaCat Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles.

Jonathan Reed-Beviere, the Navy's mine hunting capability programme director, said: "The Royal Navy receiving its first fully autonomous minesweeping system is truly transformational.

"The uncrewed system can replicate a ship's signature, tricking sea mines into detonating safely.

"The portable, flexible system is vital to protecting ships from modern mine threats.

"Operated remotely from land or sea, it will keep our sailors out of danger and will restore a minesweeping capability the Royal Navy has lacked since 2005."