Studies on future Mine Countermeasure Vessels (MCMV)

Abstract: Background Maritime transportation is vital for international trade, and any disruption to this flow can have severe financial and environmental consequences. Ship mines, both old and new, present significant risks as man-made obstacles. The perilous task of minesweeping, historically carried out by humans at great risk, necessitates the development of unmanned vessels. These autonomous solutions aim to effectively address the dangers posed by ship mines while ensuring the safety of human lives. Objectives This thesis aims to explore the potential of next-generation Mine countermeasure vessel (MCMV) and develop a concept for an autonomous or remotely operated vessel capable of effectively clearing sea mines. This thesis is limited to only considering surface vessels for the MCMV, and alternative designs like submersible vehicles are not considered. Furthermore, the study relies on conventional platform technology, potentially limiting the vehicles’ capabilities compared to emerging technologies. Methods The methodology employed in this degree project is centered on the analysis of current trends and technologies in Mine countermeasure (MCM) operations. Three world-leading products in the field are described in depth to then go through a comprehensive evaluation to serve as a foundation for concept development. Results The outcome of this thesis is a catamaran-based concept that incorporates additional functionalities to enhance its adaptability and self-defense capabilities. The concept extends upon the design of an existing product, incorporating new features such as adjustable width and the ability to support forward reconnaissance, as well as contribute to air defense capabilities within the fleet. Conclusions The future of MCM operations is expected to shift towards automated systems, characterized by smaller and more affordable platforms. This technological advancement enables the increased deployment of MCMVs, with their effectiveness being determined by the number of units rather than individual speed. As technological developments in marine environments continue to progress, the significance of ensuring safety and control in these settings becomes of utmost importance. AutonomousMCMVs will play a vital role in addressing these challenges and contribute significantly to the safety and security of marine environments in the future.