The REPMUS 24 exercise in Portugal is a major step forward for NATO's Digital Ocean Vision, as Allies collaborate to develop and refine new maritime technologies.
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| NATO's Digital Ocean Initiative receives a boost in Portugal as Allies gather for the REPMUS 24 exercise to test autonomous maritime systems and enhance security. Image Credit: Portuguese Navy |
Brussels, Belgium – September 25, 2024:
NATO's Digital Ocean Initiative received a significant boost during the REPMUS 24 exercise held in Portugal. This international event brought together NATO Allies, partner countries, and organizations to test the capabilities of autonomous systems and enhance understanding of maritime threats.
REPMUS 24, the world's leading experimentation exercise for maritime unmanned systems, provided a unique platform for operators to test new technologies and operational concepts. This year's focus was on the employment of autonomous vehicles in multi-domain operations, anti-submarine warfare, naval mine warfare, and the protection of Critical Undersea Infrastructure (CUI).
The exercise aligns with NATO's broader efforts to strengthen situational awareness and deter threats in the maritime domain. By connecting maritime surveillance assets across Allied nations, NATO is enhancing its ability to respond to challenges in this critical area.
The Digital Ocean Vision initiative, launched by NATO Defence Ministers, aims to connect a range of national and Allied capabilities employed for maritime surveillance. This includes underwater robots, aerial drones, and space surveillance assets. By leveraging these technologies, NATO can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the maritime environment and better protect its interests.
REPMUS 24 is a crucial step in advancing NATO's Digital Ocean Initiative. The exercise provides valuable insights into the capabilities and limitations of autonomous systems, helping to inform future development and deployment. As NATO continues to adapt to a more challenging security environment, the Digital Ocean Initiative will play a vital role in ensuring the Alliance's maritime security.