On the occasion of the DEFEA 2023 exhibition, the very discreet company Swarmy, based in Cyprus, unveiled for the first time its USV B5 Hydra armed with the LionFish naval turret.
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B5 Hydra USV with Leonardo's Lionfish 12.7 Ultralight machine gun. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)
This company had been in the news since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, when thanks to its Ukrainian connections, it was spotted by the Ukrainian businessman Pero Poroshenko. Through the intermediary of foundations, the latter obtained H6 and H10 drones.
B5 Hydra USV
With a maximum total range of 1,200 kilometers, the B5 Hydra USV can cover vast distances while executing its missions effectively. It measures 6,052 millimeters in overall length and has a maximum weight capacity of 1,000 kilograms, allowing for the integration of various payloads.
The USV exhibits exceptional endurance, capable of operating for up to 10 hours in cruise mode. It achieves a minimum speed of 5 kilometers per hour, ensuring precise control and maneuverability even in challenging conditions. At a cruise speed of 120 kilometers per hour, the B5 Hydra USV can swiftly navigate its designated area of operations.
In terms of communication capabilities, the USV utilizes a Mobile Ad-Hoc Network (MANET) with a maximum range of 200 kilometers. This enables reliable and secure communication over long distances, facilitating real-time information exchange and coordination.
The B5 Hydra USV's payload capacity is notable, with a maximum capability of accommodating up to 600 kilograms. This allows for the integration of various equipment, such as a gyro-stabilized remotely controlled turret equipped with a .50 machine gun, or payloads of up to 500 kilograms of explosive charges. Such versatility empowers the USV to adapt to different mission requirements.
When it comes to speed, the B5 Hydra USV can reach a maximum velocity of 160 kilometers per hour, ensuring rapid response capabilities and swift maneuvering when needed. It is also designed to withstand challenging weather conditions, with a maximum Beaufort scale rating of 8. This means it can operate effectively even in relatively high wind speeds.
In terms of physical dimensions, the USV can navigate in waters with a height above the waterline of up to 2,100 millimeters. This allows it to tackle various sea conditions while maintaining stability and control.
Furthermore, the B5 Hydra USV is designed with extended autonomous operations in mind. It can remain at sea virtually indefinitely, thanks to its capability to cruise for up to 10 hours at a speed of 120 kilometers per hour. This endurance, combined with its autonomous functionality, makes the USV a reliable asset for long-duration missions.
The B5 Hydra USV is designed for easy deployment and transportation. It can be conveniently fitted into a 20-foot shipping container, or two USVs can be accommodated in a 40-foot container. This feature ensures efficient logistics and rapid deployment when required. The USV is launched by a crew of two, simplifying the operational process.
For remote control and monitoring, the B5 Hydra USV is equipped with a high-definition Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) gimbal system. It can be controlled remotely using the H6 or H12 Poseidon VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) for distances of up to 200 kilometers from the ground base. Alternatively, a satellite data link can be utilized to control and monitor the USV.
