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Australia Secures Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Contract with Anduril for Ghost Shark Technology Deployment

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor



Australia Commits Over $1 Billion to Advanced Underwater Drone Technology

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Melbourne, Australia – In a important move to enhance its naval capabilities, Australia has finalized a $1.7 billion AUD (approximately $1.13 billion USD) contract with defense technology firm Anduril for the acquisition and ongoing growth of the Ghost Shark Extra Large Autonomous Undersea Vehicle (XL-AUV). The proclamation, made Today by the Australian Department of Defense, signals a deepening investment in autonomous systems for maritime security.

Expanding Underwater capabilities

The initial investment will cover the delivery, maintenance, and further refinement of the Ghost Shark platform within Australia over the next five years. while the exact number of units remains undisclosed,Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles stated during a press conference in Sydney that “dozens” of these advanced drones will be incorporated into the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) fleet,with the first deployments anticipated in January 2026.

This acquisition is strategically positioned to bolster Australia’s capabilities in stealthy long-range intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and possibly strike operations. It is intended to complement Australia’s evolving surface combatant fleet and its participation in the AUKUS security pact, which includes the development of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

Ghost Shark’s Versatile Applications

Anduril highlights the ghost Shark’s multifaceted capabilities, extending beyond conventional military roles. The XL-AUV is designed to perform coastal defense patrols and establish extensive maritime domain awareness,leveraging advanced artificial intelligence. The company emphasizes that the platform’s success represents a pivotal chance to validate the potential of autonomous seapower in addressing critical national security challenges.

According to Australian Navy Chief vice Adm. Mark Hammond, the Ghost Shark’s deployability is a key asset. These XL-AUVs can be launched from shore, operate from naval vessels, and are readily transportable via aircraft, such as the C-17 Globemaster III, offering significant operational flexibility.

From Prototype to Fleet

The current contract builds upon an initial co-development agreement signed in May 2022 between Anduril, the RAN, and Australia’s Defence Science and Technology group (DSTG). This earlier phase focused on producing three prototype XL-AUVs, which where delivered on schedule and within budget in 2024. Subsequent trials of the prototype were conducted in Australia and extended to international waters, including a presentation during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise in Hawaii in july.

The Ghost Shark is notably powered by a fully electric powertrain, enabling extended missions without the need for surfacing-a feature critical for maintaining stealth and maximizing operational endurance. Anduril also revealed plans for continuous development, incorporating new payloads, enhanced weaponry, and increasingly elegant autonomous systems to address emerging threats.

David Goodrich, executive chairman and chief executive at Anduril Australia, affirmed that the Ghost Shark is designed for continuous evolution, with ongoing advancements in payloads, weaponry, and autonomy.

Feature Specification
Total Contract Value $1.7 billion AUD (approximately $1.13 billion USD)
Timeline 5 years
First Deployments January 2026
power Source All-electric powertrain

Did You Know? Autonomous underwater vehicles like the ghost Shark are increasingly seen as essential for maintaining a strategic advantage in the world’s oceans, particularly in contested regions.

Pro Tip: The development of AI-powered autonomous systems is a rapidly evolving field. Keeping abreast of technological advancements is crucial for understanding their potential impact on national security.

What impact will this investment have on Australia’s naval strategy in the long term? And how will the Ghost Shark integrate with the AUKUS partnership to address regional security concerns?

The Growing Trend of Autonomous Underwater Systems

The demand for unmanned underwater vehicles is surging globally, driven by factors such as cost-effectiveness, reduced risk to personnel, and the ability to operate in challenging environments. Several nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and China, are actively investing in similar technologies. According to a recent report by MarketsandMarkets, the global underwater vehicles market is projected to reach $6.7 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 8.9% from 2024 to 2029.

frequently Asked Questions about the Ghost Shark XL-AUV

  • What is the Ghost Shark XL-AUV? The Ghost Shark is an extra-large autonomous underwater vehicle developed by Anduril, designed for long-range intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
  • How much is Australia investing in the Ghost Shark? Australia is investing $1.7 billion AUD (approximately $1.13 billion USD) in the Ghost Shark program over the next five years.
  • When will the Ghost Shark be deployed by the RAN? The first Ghost Shark units are expected to enter service with the Royal Australian Navy in January 2026.
  • What powers the Ghost Shark? The Ghost Shark is powered by an all-electric powertrain, allowing for long-duration, stealthy missions.
  • What is the role of the AUKUS pact in this acquisition? The Ghost Shark complements Australia’s AUKUS partnership by providing an advanced underwater capability alongside the development of nuclear-powered submarines.
  • Is the Ghost Shark armed? While the initial focus is on intelligence and surveillance, the Ghost Shark is designed to be adaptable and can be equipped with various payloads, including potential weaponry.
  • How does the Ghost Shark contribute to maritime domain awareness? The Ghost Shark utilizes artificial intelligence to provide comprehensive, area-wide awareness of the underwater surroundings.

Share your thoughts on Australia’s investment in autonomous underwater technology in the comments below!


How will the Australian industry benefit from the Ghost Shark contract, specifically regarding job creation and supply chain progress?

Australia secures Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Contract with Anduril for Ghost Shark Technology Deployment

Expanding Australian Maritime Capabilities with Extra-Large Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (XLUVs)

Australia has solidified its commitment too advanced maritime defense by awarding a important contract to Anduril Industries for the deployment of Ghost Shark extra-large autonomous underwater vehicles (XLUVs). This partnership marks a pivotal moment in Australia’s underwater capabilities, enhancing its ability to monitor vast ocean territories and respond to evolving security challenges. The deal, finalized in September 2025, focuses on bolstering Australia’s underwater domain awareness and providing a crucial advantage in the Indo-Pacific region.

What are Ghost Shark xluvs?

The Ghost Shark is not your typical remotely operated vehicle (ROV). Its a fully autonomous,long-endurance UUV designed for a variety of missions,including:

Intelligence,Surveillance,and Reconnaissance (ISR): Gathering critical data on underwater activity.

Mine Countermeasures (MCM): Identifying and neutralizing underwater mines.

Anti-Submarine warfare (ASW): Detecting and tracking enemy submarines.

Persistent Presence: Maintaining a continuous underwater watch in key strategic areas.

These XLUVs differentiate themselves through:

Extended Endurance: Capable of operating for weeks at a time without needing to return to base.

Modular Payload System: Allowing for speedy adaptation to different mission requirements.

Advanced AI & Machine Learning: Enabling autonomous decision-making and navigation.

Silent Operation: Minimizing detectability by adversaries.

Contract Details and Deployment Timeline

The contract, awarded to Anduril by the Royal Australian Navy, will see the initial deployment of six Ghost Shark XLUVs. The phased rollout is expected to begin in late 2026, with full operational capability anticipated by 2028. Key aspects of the agreement include:

  1. Vehicle Procurement: The acquisition of the six XLUVs themselves.
  2. Support Services: Ongoing maintenance, training, and logistical support from Anduril.
  3. Software Development: Continued refinement of the Ghost Shark’s AI and autonomy software.
  4. Australian Industry Involvement: Anduril has committed to collaborating with Australian companies to establish a local supply chain and create skilled jobs. this includes potential partnerships for maintenance and component manufacturing.

Strategic Implications for Australia’s Defense

This investment in xluvs addresses a critical gap in Australia’s defense capabilities. Traditionally,underwater surveillance has relied heavily on manned vessels and limited numbers of smaller UUVs. The Ghost Shark offers a game-changing solution by providing:

Increased Coverage: The ability to monitor considerably larger areas of the ocean.

Reduced Risk to Personnel: Removing sailors from potentially hazardous underwater missions.

enhanced Deterrence: Demonstrating Australia’s commitment to maintaining a strong maritime presence.

Asymmetric advantage: Leveraging cutting-edge technology to counter potential adversaries.

The deployment of Ghost Sharks is particularly relevant given the increasing geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region and the growing importance of underwater warfare. The technology will be instrumental in safeguarding Australia’s maritime borders, protecting critical infrastructure, and ensuring freedom of navigation.

Anduril’s Technology and Innovation in UUVs

Anduril Industries, a defense technology company founded in 2017, has quickly established itself as a leader in autonomous systems. Their approach focuses on rapid prototyping, iterative development, and leveraging commercial technologies to deliver innovative solutions to the military. The Ghost Shark exemplifies this ideology,incorporating advancements in:

Artificial Intelligence (AI): For autonomous navigation,object recognition,and threat assessment.

Sensor Technology: Including advanced sonar, optical sensors, and electromagnetic sensors.

Power Management: Enabling extended endurance and operational range.

communication Systems: Facilitating secure data transmission and remote control.

Benefits of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) in Modern Naval Warfare

The integration of AUVs like the Ghost Shark into naval operations offers a multitude of benefits:

Cost-Effectiveness: AUVs are significantly cheaper to operate than manned submarines or surface vessels.

Scalability: Fleets of AUVs can be deployed to cover vast areas, providing a scalable surveillance network.

versatility: AUVs can be equipped with a wide range of sensors and payloads to perform diverse missions.

Reduced Human Error: Autonomous operation minimizes the risk of human error in challenging underwater environments.

Real-World Applications & Case Studies (Related Technologies)

While the Ghost Shark is a relatively new technology, similar AUVs have been successfully deployed in various scenarios:

US Navy’s Snakehead: Used for mine countermeasures and harbor security.

NATO Mine Countermeasures Operations: Utilizing AUVs to identify and neutralize sea mines in European waters.

Oceanographic Research: AUVs are widely used by scientists to study marine ecosystems and map the ocean floor.These applications demonstrate the proven reliability and effectiveness of AUV technology.

Future developments and Potential Enhancements

Looking ahead,several potential enhancements could further expand the capabilities of the Ghost Shark:

Swarming Technology: Enabling multiple XLUVs to

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world

USS New Orleans Crew Overcomes Fire Off Japan’s Coast

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

Navy Battles Fire Aboard New Orleans transport Ship Near Okinawa

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A fire erupted on the amphibious transport docking ship USS New Orleans Wednesday evening Japan Standard Time, while it was positioned off the coast of Okinawa, Japan. U.S. Navy crews are actively combating the blaze,with assistance from the Japan Coast Guard and Japanese military personnel.

The Japan Coast Guard was alerted to the emergency at approximately 5:00 p.m. local time. The U.S. Seventh Fleet confirmed the incident in a brief statement, promising further updates as they become available.

No Injuries Reported, Readiness Concerns Loom

Officials have confirmed that no Marines were aboard the New Orleans when the fire began and, as of the latest reports, there have been no reported injuries or environmental concerns like oil spills. However, the incident comes at a critical time, highlighting existing challenges with the Navy’s amphibious warship readiness.

The timing of the fire could exacerbate the current strain on the availability of amphibious warships. A recent report indicated that the readiness rate of these crucial vessels, essential for Marine Corps missions, has fallen to 41% as sailors and Marines are deployed to other areas, including the Caribbean.

Amphibious Warship Readiness Current rate Required Rate (Marine Corps)
U.S. Navy 41% 80% or higher

This decrease in readiness led to a significant gap in Marine Expeditionary Unit deployments earlier this year, exceeding five months. The 31st MEU concluded its patrol in March, while the 22nd MEU only recently began its deployment this week.

Hurricane Diversion and Ongoing Challenges

Adding to the logistical complexities, the Iwo Jima amphibious ready Group was rerouted earlier this week to avoid Hurricane Erin off the coast of the Carolinas. The storm, now a Category 2 with 100 mph winds, initially delayed the group’s entry into Caribbean waters.

A 2024 Government Accountability Office examination revealed that half of the Navy’s 32 amphibious warfare ships are currently in suboptimal material condition. This has prompted concerns from Marine Corps leadership, who emphasize the need for a minimum 80% readiness rate to effectively fulfill mission requirements.

“I have the marines,and I have the squadrons,and I have the battalions and the batteries … I just don’t have the amphibs,” stated Marine Corps Commandant Gen. eric Smith last year.

Understanding amphibious Warfare Ships

Amphibious warfare ships, often referred to as “Amphibs,” are versatile vessels designed to transport and land Marines, their equipment, and supplies onto opposed shores. They are essential for a wide range of operations, including crisis response, humanitarian assistance, and large-scale combat deployments. These ships typically feature well decks for launching landing craft, flight decks for helicopters, and extensive cargo capacity. Maintaining a high level of readiness for these ships is therefore vital to the United States’ ability to project power and respond to global events.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is an amphibious transport docking ship?

    An amphibious transport docking ship is a vessel designed to carry and land Marines and equipment, serving as a critical component in amphibious assault operations.

  • What is the current readiness rate of U.S. Navy amphibs?

    The current readiness rate for U.S. Navy amphibious warships is approximately 41%, significantly below the Marine Corps’ desired rate of 80% or higher.

  • What impact does low amphib readiness have on Marine deployments?

    Reduced amphib readiness can lead to gaps in Marine Expeditionary Unit deployments, perhaps hindering the ability to respond to crises effectively.

  • What are the primary causes of reduced amphib readiness?

    factors contributing to lower readiness include aging ships, maintenance backlogs, and competing demands for resources within the Navy.

  • What is the Government Accountability Office’s assessment of amphibious ship condition?

    A 2024 GAO investigation found that half of the Navy’s amphibious warfare ships are in poor material condition.

What are your thoughts on the Navy’s current readiness challenges? Do you believe increased investment in maintenance and modernization is the key to addressing these issues?

Share your perspective in the comments below!


What specific firefighting techniques did the USS New Orleans crew utilize to contain the fire within 90 minutes?

USS New orleans Crew Overcomes Fire Off Japan’s Coast

Rapid Response & Damage Control: The Incident Unfolds

On August 19th, 2025, the USS New Orleans (LPD-22), an Austin-class amphibious transport dock ship, experienced a significant fire while operating approximately 60 nautical miles off the coast of Okinawa, Japan. The incident, thankfully, resulted in no loss of life and limited injuries, a testament to the crew’s swift and effective response. Initial reports indicate the fire originated in the ship’s engine room,specifically impacting the auxiliary machinery space.

Timeline of Events: The fire was reported at approximately 14:30 JST (05:30 UTC) and was contained within roughly 90 minutes.

Immediate Actions: The crew promptly initiated established fire suppression protocols,deploying firefighting teams and activating the ship’s firemain system.

Damage Assessment: While the fire was contained, significant damage was sustained to electrical systems and auxiliary machinery. The extent of the damage is still being fully assessed.

Firefighting Tactics & Crew Performance

The triumphant containment of the fire highlights the rigorous training and preparedness of the USS New Orleans crew. Key elements contributing to the positive outcome include:

  1. Pre-Fire Drills: Regular fire drills and damage control exercises are standard practice aboard naval vessels, ensuring crew members are familiar with procedures and equipment.
  2. Compartmentalization: The ship’s design,featuring watertight compartments,played a crucial role in preventing the fire from spreading beyond the initial affected area. This is a core principle of naval ship design for survivability.
  3. Firefighting Equipment: The USS New Orleans is equipped with advanced firefighting systems, including:

Firemain system with multiple fire hoses.

Fixed firefighting systems (e.g., CO2, Halon replacements) in machinery spaces.

Portable fire extinguishers throughout the ship.

  1. Crew Coordination: Effective communication and coordination between firefighting teams, damage control central, and the ship’s command were vital.

Impact on operations & Support Received

The fire forced the USS New Orleans to temporarily suspend its planned operations in the Indo-Pacific region. The ship is currently assessing the extent of the damage and determining the necessary repairs.

Assistance from Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF): The JMSDF offered assistance, demonstrating the strong alliance between the U.S. and Japan.While not immediately required for firefighting, the offer underscored the collaborative security relationship.

U.S. Navy Response: The U.S. navy dispatched support teams to assist with damage assessment and repair efforts.This included engineering specialists and possibly a repair ship depending on the severity of the damage.

Potential Delays: The incident may cause delays in the ship’s deployment schedule and potentially impact regional naval exercises.

Lessons Learned & Future Considerations

Incidents like the fire aboard the USS New Orleans provide valuable learning opportunities for the U.S. Navy.

Enhanced Fire Prevention: A thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of the fire and identify potential preventative measures.This may include reviewing maintenance procedures, electrical system inspections, and material safety protocols.

Damage Control Training: Continuous improvement of damage control training programs is essential. This includes incorporating lessons learned from real-world incidents and utilizing advanced simulation technologies.

Shipboard Fire Suppression Technology: Ongoing evaluation of shipboard fire suppression technology is crucial to ensure the Navy remains at the forefront of fire safety. This includes exploring new extinguishing agents and detection systems.

Electrical System Redundancy: Assessing the redundancy of critical electrical systems can help mitigate the impact of future incidents.

Naval Fire Safety: A Broader Perspective

Naval vessels operate in inherently hazardous environments, making fire safety a paramount concern. The U.S. Navy invests heavily in fire prevention and damage control measures.

Naval Firefighting Schools: sailors undergo extensive firefighting training at specialized schools, learning techniques for combating fires in confined spaces and dealing with hazardous materials.

Regular Inspections: Ships are subject to regular inspections by safety officers to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS): Strict protocols are in

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News

Exploring Sustainable Culinary Practices at the San Diego Sustainable Food Festival with Sea Shepherd Conservation Society

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

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sea Shepherd Hosts Inaugural Enduring Food Festival In San Diego

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San Diego’s Balboa Park will be the site of a vibrant community event on September 27th, as Sea Shepherd Conservation Society hosts its first Sustainable Food Festival. The Festival promises a celebration of global flavors and culinary innovation, spotlighting local chefs and vendors committed to sustainable practices.

The event, located on the expansive lawn at Park Boulevard and Presidents Way, will feature over 100 vendors offering sustainable food, crafts, and services. Nonprofit organizations will also be present, adding to the community-focused atmosphere. A portion of the event’s profits will be donated to local nonprofit groups.

Attendees can anticipate a full day of entertainment, including live music, chef demonstrations, and insightful panel discussions. Food and beverage tastings will be available,alongside kid-friendly activities,ensuring a fun experience for all ages. Sea Shepherd San Diego OnShore Volunteers will be on hand to provide updates on their ocean conservation campaigns and educate the public about their work.

Official Sea Shepherd merchandise will be available for purchase,offering supporters a chance to directly contribute to the organization’s mission. Visitors are encouraged to stop by the Sea Shepherd booth to learn more and show their support.

About Sea Shepherd Conservation Society

Sea Shepherd Conservation Society is a non-profit, marine wildlife conservation organization dedicated to protecting the world’s oceans. they employ direct action tactics to defend marine ecosystems and wildlife from illegal activities.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Sustainable Food Festival

  • What is the Sea Shepherd Sustainable Food Festival?

    It is a community celebration of global flavors and culinary innovation, focusing on sustainable food practices and supporting local vendors.

  • Where will the Festival be held?

    the Festival will take place on the lawn at Park Boulevard and Presidents Way in Balboa Park, San diego.

  • What kind of vendors will be at the Festival?

    Over 100 vendors will be present, offering sustainable food, crafts, and services.

  • Will there be activities for children?

    Yes, the Festival will include kid-friendly activities to ensure a fun experience for the whole family.

  • Does the event support any charities?

    A portion of the event’s profits will be donated to local nonprofit groups.

  • Can I learn more about Sea Shepherd at the event?

    Sea Shepherd San Diego onshore Volunteers will be available to provide campaign updates and educate attendees about their ocean conservation efforts.

  • Where can I purchase Sea Shepherd merchandise?

    Official Sea Shepherd merchandise will be available for purchase at the Sea Shepherd booth.

Disclaimer: This article reports on a community event and does not provide financial, legal, or health advice. For specific advice related to these areas, please consult a qualified professional.

What are yoru thoughts on sustainable food festivals? Share your comments below and help us spread the word about this exciting event!

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