Israel Aerospace Industries' cutting-edge AUVs are set to strengthen Greece’s defense in the Aegean Sea, focusing on intelligence gathering, counter-submarine operations, and securing exclusive economic zones.
The Greek website Epikaira reports that the Greek Navy intends to purchase at least 10 "Blue Whale" autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). The goal is to enhance the Greek Navy’s capabilities, particularly in intelligence gathering and counter-submarine operations.
According to the report, the version of the AUV proposed by IAI is tailored to the operational characteristics of the Aegean Sea. This AUV leaves a minimal detection signature, incorporating stealth technology. Additionally, its relatively small size—measuring just 11 meters in length—allows it to "hide" among rocky islands or near passing ships, making it nearly invisible to enemy radar.
In the eyes of the Hellenic Navy, these AUVs are intended not only to address Turkish threats but also to play a crucial role in securing Greece's Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) in the Aegean Sea. They will monitor and report in real-time to the National Operations Center of the Greek Ministry of Defense, tracking both the movements of the Turkish fleet and underwater threats.
