Royal Navy boosts jobs, as first mine countermeasures vessel introduced

British defence jobs have been boosted following the Royal Navy’s delivery of the first end-to-end mine hunting vessel.

Nnown as ‘Ariadne’, the vessel was designed and manufactured in the UK under a £184m deal with Thales UK, which supported more than 200 jobs across Somerset, Plymouth, Portsmouth, and Scotland.

The autonomous system, which includes the Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) RNMB ARIADNE, enables the Royal Navy to locate and destroy sea mines faster and more efficiently, without putting personnel at risk.  

The Royal Navy plans to gradually phase out conventional crewed mine hunting vessels as additional autonomous systems are delivered over the next five years or so.

This transition represents a shift in naval operations, creating additional skilled employment opportunities in the maritime technology sector.

Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP, said: “This delivery marks a significant milestone in our mine-hunting capabilities and the autonomous technology will keep Britain and our Royal Navy sailors safer by identifying & removing mines.   

“It has also supported hundreds of skilled jobs across UK industry – a clear demonstration that defence is an engine for economic growth.”

Rear Admiral Steve McCarthy, director of Maritime Environment at DE&S, said: “This is a significant first delivery for the Royal Navy and is a proud moment for all those involved in bringing this transformative capability into service.

“This project contributes to the growth and prosperity of our nation and will strengthen UK security through enhanced maritime operations.  

“Following successful trials of the prototype vessel RNMB APOLLO in the Firth of Clyde in September 2024, Royal Navy personnel will now undertake training with Thales’ support before conducting a thorough Operational Evaluation and beginning to deploy MMCM systems on active duty.”  

Phil Siveter, CEO of Thales in the UK, said: “We are incredibly proud to deliver this world-first autonomous mine hunting system to the UK Royal Navy.

“With the introduction of AI and advanced sensor technology, this innovation represents a new era in maritime defence technology and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that enhance the capabilities of our defence forces.

“The Royal Navy will now have a powerful tool to safeguard national interests and maintain security at sea.”