Clearing the Depths, Securing the Seas
Maritime threats are disrupting global trade, pushing navies to seek unconventional solutions. Elbit Systems is leading the way with unmanned technologies that protect vital shipping routes.
For decades, naval warfare relied on manned vessels navigating vast oceans, detecting threats, and neutralizing dangers lurking beneath the surface. Today, that reality is shifting, with Elbit Naval Systems leading the transformation.
Under the leadership of Ronen, a former Israeli Navy officer and now Chief Operating Officer of Elbit Naval Systems, the company has driven advancements in unmanned surface vessels (USVs), anti-submarine warfare (ASW), and mine countermeasure (MCM) technologies.
“These technologies are aiming to reshape maritime security,” says Ronen, “and enhancing the role of unmanned systems in naval operations worldwide.”
Redefining Naval Superiority
Ronen, a retired navy captain who joined Elbit Systems over a decade ago, recalls how the company re-established its presence in the maritime domain after stepping away in the mid-1990s. Recognizing Israel’s dependence on sea commerce, Elbit Systems identified maritime security as a strategic priority.
"The sea is vast, unpredictable, and more contested than ever," says Ronen. Maritime threats are evolving, and relatively inexpensive naval mines can now disrupt entire trade routes. A single well-placed mine can shut down a key shipping lane, inflicting potentially billions in economic damage.
"We’ve seen this play out in global chokepoints like the Suez Canal and the Red Sea," Ronen explains. "Recognizing this escalating challenge, nations worldwide – including Elbit Systems’ clients – are investing in advanced maritime security. From Asia to the Middle East, governments are prioritizing autonomous systems to protect vital sea routes, neutralize threats, and safeguard critical infrastructure – without putting personnel at risk."
"We realized that unmanned systems were the future".
"If bomb disposal experts on land no longer risk their lives, why should sailors?" That principle guided Elbit Systems in developing its advanced USVs – providing navies with a safer, efficient alternative to manned vessels for high-risk missions.
The need for advanced mine countermeasures is undeniable. Historically, clearing underwater mines has been slow, dangerous, and costly. In past conflicts – from WWII’s D-Day to modern naval operations – entire fleets and thousands of personnel were deployed for mine clearance, often at great risk. Today, a single unmanned vessel equipped with high-resolution sonar and remotely operated vehicles can detect and neutralize mines faster and more safely than ever before.
Turning the Tide in Naval Defense
Securing vast maritime domains involves more than just countering mines – submarines remain among the most formidable naval threats due to their stealth. "One of a submarine’s greatest weapons is its ability to stay hidden," says Ronen. "Our mission is to change that." To counter this, GeoSpectrum Technologies (GTI) Elbit’s subsidiary developed cutting-edge sonar systems, including TRAPS (Towed Relabel Active Passive Sonar) a compact active passive Low Frequency (LF) Variable Depth Sonar (VDS, enhancing underwater detection.
Elbit’s USVs scan vast areas rapidly, transmitting real-time intelligence to onshore operators.
One of Elbit’s important milestones has been the successful deployment of unmanned vessels in active military operations. Today, dozens of its USVs are in service worldwide with additional currently under production. These real-world deployments showcase how autonomous systems aim to safeguard maritime security while keeping personnel out of harm’s way.
Beyond Detection
As naval threats evolve, so must defenses. To address emerging challenges, Elbit has integrated electronic warfare (EW) systems into its USVs. "We’re proving that USVs aren’t just for reconnaissance or mine clearance – they’re frontline assets delivering real-time defense," says Ronen.
Elbit is advancing sonar technologies and AI-driven capabilities to sharpen underwater situational awareness. By partnering with international experts – such as Canadian sonar specialists – the company is advancing in underwater detection. As autonomous naval operations expand, Elbit aims to have a meaningful part in the future of maritime defense.
"At sea, as on land and in the air, asymmetric threats require bold solutions," Ronen concludes. "Unmanned vessels don’t just enhance operational efficiency – they empower the next generation of naval forces to maximize efficiency while keeping personnel safe."
