German Navy Tests BlueWhale Underwater Drone

The German Navy has successfully tested the BlueWhale unmanned underwater drone in the Baltic Sea, marking a significant advancement in anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries in collaboration with Atlas Elektronik, the BlueWhale can operate stealthily for up to four weeks, equipped with advanced sensors for detecting submarines, surface vessels, and mines without revealing its position. This testing, integral to Germany's Marine 2035+ program, reflects a strategic shift towards unmanned systems amid rising tensions among NATO, Russia, and China in contested maritime regions. Weighing 5.5 tons and measuring nearly 11 meters, the BlueWhale is designed for integration into NATO operations and aims to enhance maritime security by safeguarding critical underwater infrastructure. This trial underscores the growing importance of unmanned systems in modern naval warfare, as countries like the U.S., Russia, and China also develop similar technologies. As unmanned technologies evolve, they are set to redefine naval capabilities and responses to emerging threats.