The architecture spans everything from intra-node components to the network between nodes, and works across acoustic, optical and above-water channels. New technologies can be plugged in as they mature. Open, standardized interfaces also make it easier for small companies and startups to contribute and reduce Europe's dependence on non-EU suppliers.
Why it matters
Navies increasingly rely on underwater drones and seabed sensors working alongside manned vessels, all of which need to share data in real time. Below the surface, however, radio and GPS do not work. Sound travels far but carries little data; light carries much more, but only over short distances. And systems from different nations and suppliers often cannot talk to each other at all.
What the project will deliver
- Acoustic and optical underwater links
Longer range and higher data rates through directive transmission, hydrophone arrays and multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) techniques. Optical links that move large volumes of data quickly between nearby nodes, complementing acoustics over longer distances. - Multimodal adaptivity
Technology that automatically picks the best link, acoustic or optical, as conditions and needs change. - Security across the architecture
Threat and risk analysis, key management and encryption that protect communication across all modalities, designed for low-bandwidth links and harsh underwater conditions.
SINTEF’s role
Two SINTEF departments bring complementary expertise: Software Engineering, Safety and Security (SESS) and Sustainable Communications Technologies (SCT). SESS leads a work package on security studies, conducting threat analysis of underwater communication and designing key management schemes that work over low-bandwidth links without compromising covertness. SCT develops acoustic channel models for MIMO configurations with multiple hydrophones and brings expertise on directive communication and underwater noise profiles.
Physical sea trials and validation of the project's solutions will take place in Norway. Beyond defence, the results could benefit offshore energy, aquaculture and subsea infrastructure monitoring. Other Norwegian partners in the consortium are the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI) and Kongsberg Discovery.
