Modern mine countermeasure (MCM) operations are evolving, with uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) at the forefront of this transformation. The future of MCM lies in compact, intelligent systems capable of detecting, classifying, and identifying mine-like objects (MLOs) within a single mission. Traditionally, mine identification required clearance divers to visually confirm targets—a process that increased mission duration, operational risk, and cost. Today, optical imaging enables a covert, remote approach to mine identification, eliminating the need for divers while accelerating mission tempo and improving confidence in target identification.
Voyis is enabling this shift by delivering high-performance optical systems that equip UUVs and remotely operated towed vehicles (ROTVs) with the visual intelligence needed for reliable MLO identification. Beyond identification, these systems enhance situational awareness during the neutralization phase by providing remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) with real-time, high-resolution visuals—supporting safer, more precise engagement of threats across multiple operational stages.
Detection and Classification: The Role of MAS
MCM operations typically begin with wide-area detection and classification, tasks well suited to Multi-Aperture Sonar (MAS). MAS enables operators to scan large areas efficiently and detect anomalies or potential threats on the seafloor. By interpreting sonar returns, operators can classify contacts based on shape, size, and acoustic reflectivity, narrowing down targets for further investigation.
But classification is only the second step. In order to properly coordinate the mitigation of potential threats, a visual identification step is required, which was historically performed by divers providing “eyes on the target”. In locations where seabed is complex and there may be significant MLO targets classified for investigation, deploying divers introduces risk, compromises covertness, and reduces mission efficiency when identifying the threat successfully. This is where Voyis’ optical systems redefine the process.
Remote Identification with High Resolution Underwater Optical Sensors
In the Identification stage of Mine Countermeasure (MCM) operations, having confidence in what the target is fundamentally is the core objective. Subsea, optical sensors such as laser scanners and stills cameras, installed on UUVs deliver the highest quality dataset possible, providing operators with the results required to confidently identify the threat with multiple “eyes on the target”. Voyis replaces that need with compact, high-performance optical payloads that provide the clarity and confidence needed for remote identification.
The Voyis Observer Imaging System delivers ultra-sharp still imagery with real-time colour correction, powerful strobes, and wide field-of-view lenses. These images maintain clarity even in low visibility or turbid water conditions, enabling operators to confidently assess targets from a safe standoff distance. All of Voyis’ optical data is georeferenced with the navigation sensors onboard the platform to provide improved localization of identified threats, enhancing the neutralization stage with greater positional accuracy.
For situations where even more detail is required, the Voyis Insight Laser Scanner offers high-resolution 3D models of MLOs, allowing for precise shape analysis, volumetric measurements, and digital record-keeping. These laser-based reconstructions help confirm target identity and support downstream actions like recovery or neutralization.
With these optical tools integrated onto UUVs or ROTVs, operators can conduct the entire identification process remotely, reducing the need for multiple assets and eliminating diver risk, while maintaining the accuracy and assurance required for effective MCM operations.
Enhanced Target Approach and Situational Awareness on ROVs
Precision navigation and safe target approach are critical for target neutralization. Voyis’s Discovery Camera offer an ultra-wide field of view that enhances situational awareness during vehicle descent and approach towards the target. Unlike traditional narrow-angled piloting cameras, the Discovery Camera allows operators to visually orient around the target environment with greater clarity and awareness, making it easier to locate and align with the contact, improving operational tempo.
This improved awareness reduces the risk of missing the target or disturbing it during approach, enhancing both operational safety and efficiency.
Seeing Through Turbidity: Optimized for Real-World Conditions
Underwater visibility is often compromised by suspended particles and backscatter. Voyis optical systems are engineered to operate in these conditions, using offset lighting, high-dynamic range sensors, and onboard data enhancements to reduce image noise as a result of particulate and pull-out greater detail of the target of interest.
Voyis has developed real-time true-colour correction algorithms, applied onboard autonomous platforms. These corrections restore natural colour tones to still images, providing visual information that can further aid in the qualification and confirmation of mine-like targets.
