Thales Marks Milestone in Maritime Autonomy at Brest Centre
Brest, 10 January 2026 – Thales has opened its Maritime Autonomy Centre in Plymouth, UK, following significant seagoing trials, including the first cross-Channel unmanned surface vessel (USV) journey from Brest to Plymouth. This development underscores France’s role in advancing naval defence technologies through the Franco-British Maritime Mine Countermeasures (MMCM) programme, enhancing operational safety and efficiency for navies worldwide.
Opening and Cross-Channel Demonstration
In a key demonstration, Thales’ Boat Zero USV, equipped with the TSAM towed synthetic aperture sonar, completed a 150 nautical mile passage across the English Channel. Piloted by a Brest-based crew and escorted into Plymouth by another USV, this maiden voyage highlighted the robustness of Thales’ mine countermeasures-class workboats. The event symbolised collaboration between French and UK maritime test centres, proving the capabilities of autonomous systems in real-sea conditions.
Advancements in Mine Countermeasures
The MMCM programme, managed by OCCAR with support from France’s Direction générale de l’armement and the UK’s Ministry of Defence, has seen Thales deliver production systems to the French Navy. Recent deliveries in December 2024 and November 2025 included USVs with TSAM sonar and SAMDIS multi-view sonar, achieving over 99% sea mine detection rates. These systems minimise crew exposure to hazards, integrating AI for data analysis and reducing operator cognitive load. At-sea trials since 2021, involving over 3,000 hours, confirmed the technology’s reliability, with prototypes upgraded for operational needs.
Key Facts and Milestones
| Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Cross-Channel USV Voyage | 150 nautical miles from Brest to Plymouth in 2024, first offshore journey with TSAM payload. |
| USV Deliveries | First production system in December 2024; second in November 2025, equipped with TSAM and SAMDIS sonars. |
| Sea Trials | Over 3,000 hours since 2021, demonstrating 99%+ mine detection and neutralisation capabilities. |
| Programme Scope | Franco-British collaboration; six series-produced systems delivered by 2025 for French and Royal Navies. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MMCM programme?
The Maritime Mine Countermeasures programme is a joint French-British initiative to develop autonomous systems for detecting and neutralising sea mines, reducing risks to naval personnel through drones and AI-driven technologies.
How does Thales’ technology benefit French naval operations?
By integrating USVs with advanced sonars and AI, Thales enhances the French Navy’s ability to operate safely in mine-threatened waters, aligning with broader European defence goals for superior operational capabilities.
What role does Brest play in Thales’ operations?
Brest is a hub for Thales’ naval activities, focusing on research, development, and integration of sonar systems and autonomous vessels, employing over 1,800 staff in defence and security technologies.