Newsroom
- Defense
15 Sep 2021
Cetos Dronekit to equip ECA Group’s Unmanned Surface Vehicles for the Belgian-Dutch Mine Counter Measure (MCM) program
Cetos Dronekit’s Sense module (made by Robopec, iXblue’s Robotics division) has been selected by ECA Group to provide complete scene analysis for collision avoidance to their unmanned surface vehicles (USV). Out of Cetos’ three modules, the Sense module serves the critical role of merging visual and navigation data acquired by the USV’s various sensors, and of elaborating a safe and feasible route through the operation area.
"Cetos Dronekit’s Sense module will integrate perfectly with already selected iXblue systems, within the MCM program. We are proud of Belgium Naval & Robotics’ trust. This program is a major reference for Robopec solutions and a testimony of our know-how".
iXblue Robotics division’s software met the extensive and high standard requirements of its client.
"A sea proven and mature solution, Cetos’ Sense module also innovates by addressing further collision avoidance regulations (COLREGs) than required. This innovation makes it not only great at percepting and avoiding obstacles, but also at inserting within naval traffic, as well as abiding to maritime regulations".
ECA Group USVs will benefit from Cetos’ innovations and adaptability.
iXblue has already gained the trust of Belgium Naval & Robotics in the recent past. The French company will indeed provide critical systems for the program’s new, state-of-the-art vessels. They will benefit from the renowned FOG technology with the integration of iXblue’s Inertial Navigation Systems (INS). These INS will ensure reliable and high-performance navigation at all times, including in GNSS denied environments. In addition, iXblue will provide SeapiX-FLS7 sonars, allowing for real-time mine and obstacle analysis & detection, with incredible precision. Cetos Dronekit works perfectly in tandem with the SeapiX-FLS Series. At last, Gaps USBLs will be used for tracking and communicating with ECA Group’s AUVs.
