The Royal New Zealand Navy is on the brink of incorporating cutting-edge technology into its fleet with the arrival of an unmanned surface vessel (USV) named “Bluebottle,” designed to operate entirely on renewable energy sources.
Currently en route from Sydney to Auckland aboard the HMNZS Aotearoa, the Bluebottle is gearing up for trials in New Zealand waters. This innovative watercraft boasts the capability to harness solar, wind, or wave power, showcasing a unique rigid sail for wind propulsion and integrated photo-electric cells on the sail to power its motor.
Developed by Sydney-based Ocius Technology, the Bluebottle is poised to serve a diverse range of missions, including fishery protection, border security, and meteorological data collection.
Highlighting the significant role this unmanned vessel is expected to play, Navy Maritime Component Commander Commodore Garin Golding emphasized its relevance in patrolling New Zealand’s expansive Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Golding stated, “Our EEZ is the fifth largest in the world at more than four million square kilometres. Coupled with the 30 million square kilometre search and rescue area that New Zealand has responsibility for, that is a lot of ocean to cover.”
Drawing on insights from international military partners, Golding underscored the practical value of uncrewed drone aircraft and vessels in fulfilling search and surveillance tasks.
Operated from a control room at Devonport Naval Base in Auckland, the USV will establish communication with base personnel through mobile phone signals and leverage high- and low-bandwidth satellites for extended coverage.
A key feature of the Bluebottle is its transportability, capable of being transported via trailer to various locations across New Zealand. During sea missions, it can be efficiently launched and recovered through a boat ramp, enhancing its versatility in maritime operations.