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ADSB Advances Autonomy with 170 M-DETECTOR Vessel for Enhanced Mine Countermeasures.
Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB), a subsidiary of EDGE Group and a key player in the design, construction, and maintenance of military and commercial vessels, has introduced the next-generation 170 M-DETECTOR, a 17-meter vessel equipped with advanced technologies to enhance mine countermeasure (MCM) operations. This development represents a strategic step in modernizing the naval capabilities of the United Arab Emirates in autonomous maritime defense.
The 170 M-DETECTOR is a 17.4-meter-long vessel capable of operating autonomously or with a crew, designed for mine countermeasures, surveillance, mapping, and transport missions across various naval operations (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The new vessel features an advanced autonomous control system and specialized mine countermeasure equipment, incorporating high-performance sensors developed through a collaboration between EDGE, ADSB, the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), and Exail. Designed to execute the full spectrum of MCM missions, the 170 M-DETECTOR can detect, classify, and neutralize underwater mines with enhanced precision and efficiency, contributing to improved naval security.
The 170 M-DETECTOR is a 17.4-meter-long vessel that can operate in both autonomous and crewed configurations, supporting various naval operations, including mine countermeasures, surveillance, mapping, and transport. Powered by two 900-horsepower diesel engines driving waterjets, it can reach a top speed of 40 knots. It also features a silent electric propulsion mode, enabling up to four hours of operation at 5 knots, optimizing performance in sensitive environments. The vessel can carry payloads of up to 1,000 kg, depending on power and machinery configurations. Its large deck allows for the integration of various mission-specific systems, including remotely operated weapon stations for surface warfare applications.
Equipped with a retractable 3D multi-beam sonar, the 170 M-DETECTOR is capable of obstacle detection, seabed mapping, and environmental assessment in real-time. It also features a 360-degree panoramic camera, radar, AIS tracking, a weather station, and multiple sensors for continuous vessel status monitoring, ensuring enhanced situational awareness. The autonomous control system enables remote operation via a mobile and independent command-and-control station, reducing human exposure in high-risk environments.
As part of this project, Exail provides integrated mine countermeasure systems, including autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). Among these, the K-Ster C is a lightweight, expendable ROV designed for mine neutralization. Operated remotely from a secure location, it eliminates identified threats while minimizing risks to personnel and equipment. Additionally, the Seascan ROV is a self-propelled system dedicated to mine identification and classification. Featuring a high-resolution camera and requalification sonar, it delivers detailed imaging of underwater objects, maintaining operational stability even in challenging maritime conditions. These integrated technologies enhance the 170 M-DETECTOR’s effectiveness in mine countermeasure missions while improving operational safety.
Following the successful launch of the 170 M-DETECTOR, program partners are preparing for the next phase, which involves the joint development of the INSPECTOR 125, a new vessel that will feature TII’s marine autonomy system and a towed sonar system. This project, developed in collaboration between ADSB and Exail, will be entirely produced in the United Arab Emirates, further advancing domestic expertise in naval autonomous solutions.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to develop modular and autonomous naval platforms capable of executing complex missions with minimal human intervention. By integrating artificial intelligence, advanced autonomy, and next-generation sensor systems, ADSB and its partners are strengthening naval operational capabilities while contributing to the modernization of maritime defense solutions. With the 170 M-DETECTOR, the United Arab Emirates continues to expand its role in technological innovation for naval operations, supporting the security of maritime infrastructure and strategic sea lanes.