Dynautics has launched the Phantom 2, a new modular Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) designed to meet industry demands for enhanced subsea operational capabilities.
Modular UUV technology is central to performing the diverse range of offshore tasks required today, enabling vehicles to accommodate different payloads and operate at various depths for extended periods with minimal downtime.
The Phantom 2 builds upon the success of its predecessor, the Phantom 1, which was originally developed for the US Navy. The vehicle’s efficiency was optimized using 3D models, digital twin creation, and simulation to reduce risk and cost. Enhanced reliability was a key design focus, with extensive Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) undertaken on both subsystems and the overall design.
The modular architecture of the Phantom 2 allows for different battery options, significantly increasing its endurance and range. The UUV utilizes Dynautics’ proven autopilot technology and can be scaled to accommodate various payloads, offering maximum versatility.
Launched in October 2025, the Phantom 2 is a combination of proven and bespoke solutions. During initial tests, the modular UUV successfully operated at shallow depths, demonstrating a cruising speed of 4 knots and an endurance of 12 hours at that speed. It also showcased exceptional surface maneuverability. The design is rated to 100-meter depths, providing access to littoral areas and much of the continental shelf. A critical validation of the design was the completion of repeated missions without the need for interim recovery, confirming the efficiency of both the modular design and the communication systems.
Henry Robinson, Dynautics CEO, stated, “Phantom 2 is proving to be a versatile platform ready for commercial, scientific and security applications. We fully intend to further extend the capabilities of our modular and reliable AUVs so that they are well positioned to support a sustainable future for subsea exploration.”
UUVs offer a low-impact, cost-effective solution supporting the decarbonization of offshore and subsea tasks. They are frequently deployed across sectors including scientific research, environmental monitoring, military and defense operations, and commercial industries such as oil and gas exploration and aquaculture. The next phase of testing for the Phantom 2, which involves integrating a side scan sonar, is currently underway.
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