Denmark deploys robotic sailboats for maritime surveillance

Denmark has initiated the use of four uncrewed robotic sailboats called 'Voyagers' for a trial operational period that began on June 6, 2023. These vessels are designed for surveillance purposes and are powered by wind and solar energy, granting them the ability to remain autonomous at sea for extended periods. They were launched from Koge Marina, south of Copenhagen, with the goal of enhancing surveillance capabilities in vital under-monitored waters that are critical for national security, particularly around important undersea infrastructure such as fiber-optic cables and power lines. The Danish defense effort aligns with growing concerns regarding maritime threats, including illegal fishing and human trafficking, as well as potential attacks on critical infrastructure. Saildrone, the company responsible for the 'Voyagers,' highlighted their advanced sensor technologies, including radar and sonar, which provide extensive monitoring capabilities in areas of concern often lacking oversight. The deployment of these robotic sailboats takes place against a backdrop of increasing geopolitical tensions in Northern Europe, especially as incidents related to disruptive maritime activities are attributed to Russia's so-called shadow fleet. This situation necessitates enhanced vigilance, as past events have illustrated vulnerabilities in undersea communications, with recent damage to a fiber-optic link in early 2023 between Latvia and Sweden drawing attention to potential threats to connectivity in the region. The Danish Defense Ministry's decision to implement a system based on unmanned vehicles stems from the understanding that traditional naval vessels typically entail high operational costs. As stated by Peter Viggo Jakobsen from the Royal Danish Defense College, maintaining constant surveillance over maritime activities has proven to be financially challenging, particularly when dealing with suspected Russian activities. Thus, the deployment of robotic sailboats represents a significant shift toward innovative and cost-effective maritime security operations for Denmark and NATO allies in the face of growing challenges.