US robotics firm introduces underwater glider family for multi-year missions

Ziesing said that the XLUUV can transport two LDUUVs.

The vehicles will use buoyancy-driven glider propulsion in place of propellers, supplemented by thrusters and purpose-designed control surfaces. GA said the blended-wing architecture increases internal payload volume and hydrodynamic efficiency.

Listed payloads include intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance equipment, acoustic sensors, quantum sensors, mine deployment systems and strike packages.

Concept graphics showed launch points at Okinawa and Guam, with operating reach extending to First Island Chain chokepoints and China's littoral waters.

GA has linked the family to the US Navy's planned hedge force of autonomous systems and to reduced reliance on attack submarines.