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AUV System Spec Sheet

Bluefin-21 configuration

Platform: Bluefin-21
Manufacturer: Bluefin Robotics

Summary

The Bluefin-21 is a highly modular autonomous underwater vehicle able to carry multiple sensors and payloads at once. It boasts a high energy capacity that enables extended operations even at the greatest depths. The Bluefin-21 has immense capability but is also flexible enough to operate from various ships of opportunity worldwide.

FREE-FLOODED MODULARITY – The vehicle design includes swappable payload sections and battery modules for in-field mission reconfiguration. Subsystems can be quickly accessed for rapid turnaround between missions and also allow for in-field maintenance, accelerating operational tempo.

EFFICIENT WORKHORSE – The Bluefin-21 is an efficient, deep-rated AUV able to execute surveys with demanding requirements typically addressed by larger, more cumbersome platforms. Its small size and ability to be launched and recovered from a simple A-frame or docking head allow it to take advantage of ships of opportunity.

ACCURATE NAVIGATION – The Bluefin-21 uses an INS to provide the best possible navigation accuracy. Dead reckoning drift is typically less than 0.1% of distance traveled, yielding higher quality data. USBL aiding further improves navigation accuracy.

AIR-SHIPPABLE – The vehicle, batteries and support equipment can be broken down and packaged into easily transportable sections, making the system ideal for time-critical and remote operations.

Physical Specs

  • Platform: Bluefin-21 Download PDF
  • Body Type: Torpedo
  • Size (LxWxH): 4.93m x 0.53m x 0.80m
  • Body Size (LxWxH): 4.93m x 0.53m x 0.53m
  • Hull Material: Aluminum
  • Weight: 750.00kg
  • Maximum Depth: 4,500.00 m
  • Dynamic Buoyancy: No
  • Self-Righting: Yes
  • Obstacle Avoidance: Yes
  • Endurance (nominal load): 25 hours
  • Manufacturer Website: Link

Primary Missions

  • Seabed Mapping
  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Explosive Ordnance Disposal
  • Geophysical Survey
  • Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance
  • Marine Science Survey
  • Mine Countermeasures
  • Oceanographic Survey
  • Search, Classify and Map
  • Search and Recovery
  • Anti-Submarine Warfare

Propulsion System

  • Method: Thrusters
  • DOF: 3
  • Hovering:
  • Nominal Speed: 1.54
  • Maximum Forward Speed: 2.30

Power System

  • Total Capacity: 0 Wh

Launch and Recovery

  • Crane

Sonar

  • EdgeTech 2200-M
  • Teledyne RESON SeaBat 7125