Navy’s Acquisition of the Drix H-8 Marlin Autonomous Surface Drone
The Drix H-8 Marlin, an autonomous surface drone, has been evaluated by the French Navy’s Naval Programs Expertise Center (CEPN) during the Dragoon Fury 25 exercise held in March. This drone, provided by Exail, is poised to enhance tactical situational awareness through its advanced sensor suite.
Scientific and Hydrographic Applications of the Drix H-8
Originally designed for scientific purposes, the Drix H-8 specializes in hydrographic surveys, including seabed mapping, bathymetry, and coastal hydrodynamics. These capabilities are of significant interest to the French Navy, prompting the acquisition of this surface drone by the Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Navy (SHOM), an administrative public establishment under the Ministry of Armed Forces.
SHOM’s Mission and the Role of the Marlin Drone
SHOM’s mission is to understand and describe the marine physical environment, its interactions with the atmosphere, seabeds, and coastal areas, while forecasting changes and disseminating relevant information. The acquisition of the Drix H-8, named “Marlin,” marks a significant step in transforming hydrographic and oceanographic data acquisition methods over the next five years.
Operational Capabilities and Deployment of the Marlin
The Marlin will primarily operate from ports along the Atlantic and English Channel coasts. It can also be deployed from the Hydro-Oceanographic Vessel (BHO) Beautemps-Beaupré for missions in more remote areas, including overseas territories and international collaborations.
Advanced Features of the Marlin Drone
Equipped with cutting-edge sensors, the Marlin is designed to ensure exceptional signal quality and real-time data transmission. Its remarkable directional stability, even in rough seas and cross currents, enhances measurement accuracy.
Expected Outcomes and Efficiency Gains
With the introduction of this autonomous surface drone, SHOM anticipates doubling the volume of data collected while halving the time required for data processing through the use of artificial intelligence. This advancement is expected to meet the growing demands of both civilian and military users.
Cost Reduction and Environmental Impact
According to SHOM, the Marlin will contribute to reduced operational costs and a lower environmental footprint for hydrographic campaigns. Its lighter weight compared to current hydrographic vessels allows for the use of smaller engines, leading to equivalent performance while decreasing energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and underwater noise pollution.
Future Developments in Hydrographic Technology
The deployment of the Marlin is part of a broader equipment plan, which began with the delivery of two SeaExplorer underwater gliders last year. SHOM plans to acquire a Hugin underwater drone for deep-sea exploration (up to 6,000 meters) and an offshore surface drone.
Modernization of the French Navy’s Hydro-Oceanographic Fleet
The Marlin and other autonomous drones will complement the renewal of the French Navy’s hydro-oceanographic fleet. Starting in 2028, two next-generation hydrographic vessels (BHNG) will replace the current three coastal ships, enabling comprehensive data collection from coastal zones to abyssal depths.
Photo: SHOM