In the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare, few technologies have captured the imagination and strategic focus of nations as much as drones. While their transformative effects are most visibly demonstrated in aerial combat, as seen in the Ukraine conflict, the surface and underwater domains are rapidly catching up. The weaponization of underwater drones is an emerging capability which is likely to redefine conduct of future naval warfare. These autonomous or remotely operated systems, equipped with explosives, introduce a new class of weapons distinct from traditional torpedoes and naval mines.
Unmanned platforms often referred to as drones, have undergone rapid evolution over the years. In the air, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have transitioned from tools for reconnaissance to formidable weapons of war, with the advent of one-way-attack (OWA) drones including first-person-view (FPV) kamikaze drones and loitering munitions. These systems, equipped with explosive payloads, have proven highly effective, particularly in the ongoing Ukraine war, where both Ukraine and Russia have employed them to devastating effect.
Similarly, unmanned surface vessels (USVs) have been employed by Ukraine in naval operations, albeit on a smaller scale. But, perhaps the most intriguing and least understood development is the weaponization of unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), which if possess high grade of autonomy can also be termed as autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). These underwater systems, equipped with explosives, are now projected as Ukraine's tool to dominate in Black Sea.
At first glance, weaponized underwater drones might resemble torpedoes in function, as both are designed to deliver explosive payloads to maritime targets. However, several critical differences set them apart. Torpedoes have a long history in naval warfare, evolving from rudimentary spar torpedoes of the 19th century to the advanced homing torpedoes of contemporary times. Modern torpedoes are highly sophisticated weapons, capable of high-speed travel, precise targeting, and advanced guidance systems. They are launched from submarines, ships, or aircraft and are designed to detect and pursue their targets with lethal accuracy.
In contrast, weaponized underwater drones are built to meet different requirements. These systems prioritize range and endurance over speed, allowing them to carry out strategic missions against pre-determined, static targets such as ports, oil rigs, or underwater infrastructure. Unlike torpedoes, which rely on active guidance systems to home in on moving targets, weaponized underwater drones may utilize simpler navigation systems, relying on pre-programmed coordinates or limited sensory inputs. This makes them less sophisticated but also significantly less expensive, opening up their use to a wider range of actors. Another distinguishing factor is the construction and operational flexibility of underwater drones. While torpedoes adhere to strict design standards to fit specific launch systems, underwater drones can be customized in terms of size, shape, and payload. This adaptability makes them ideal for diverse missions, from reconnaissance and surveillance to direct attacks.
To understand the significance of weaponized underwater drones, it is essential to trace the evolution of underwater systems. Torpedoes, as we recognize them today, emerged in the 19th century with the contributions of inventors like Robert Whitehead, who developed the first self-propelled torpedo. Over the decades, torpedoes have evolved into the primary underwater weapon system, and are used extensively in naval warfare.
Unmanned underwater vehicles originated much later. During 1950s, United States developed the first UUV primarily as tool for underwater exploration and surveillance of Arctic Ocean. The first UUVs were relatively simple, tethered devices used for scientific research and underwater photography. Over time, advancements in autonomous technologies and propulsion systems enabled the development of untethered UUVs capable of conducting long-range missions. The weaponization of UUVs represents the next logical step in this evolution. By integrating explosives into these systems, militaries and non-state actors have created a new class of weapons that combine the stealth and persistence of underwater drones with the destructive power of traditional naval armaments.
The weaponization of underwater drones has far-reaching implications for maritime security. These systems are particularly suited for asymmetric warfare, allowing smaller or less technologically advanced nations to challenge larger navies. Their ability to bypass traditional defenses and target high-value assets such as warships, ports, or underwater cables makes them a potent tool in both conventional and hybrid conflicts. The cost-effectiveness of weaponized underwater drones also sets them apart. Unlike torpedoes, which are expensive and produced in limited quantities, underwater drones can be developed and deployed at a fraction of the cost.
Currently, several nations and groups are at the forefront of this emerging technology. Russia's nuclear-powered Poseidon long range underwater drone can be equipped with nuclear payload - essentially introducing another dimension in sea-leg of nuclear triad. Besides building a new storage facility for these drones, Russia is also constructing new class of submarines to carry these drones. On conventional scale, Iran has been a pioneer in the development and deployment of weaponized underwater drones. Leveraging its expertise in asymmetric warfare, Iran has provided these systems to proxies such as the Houthis in Yemen, enabling them to target ships transiting the Red Sea. In the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukraine has demonstrated the efficiency of various weaponized UUVs systems. These systems have been used to target Russian naval assets, showcasing their potential in high-risk maritime operations. Similarly, North Korea has tested a nuclear capable underwater drone called Haeil-5-23. Beside state actors, non-state actors can also exploit this technology by using dual-use and commercially available technology to develop such systems thus highlighting the proliferation risks associated with this technology.
Despite their potential, weaponized underwater drones face several challenges. Their reliance on autonomous systems makes them vulnerable to jamming and cyberattacks, while their limited speed and payload capacity restrict their effectiveness in certain scenarios. Additionally, the lack of standardized designs and manufacturing practices could limit their scalability. However, these challenges are unlikely to degrade their wide-scale adoption. As technology advances and costs decrease, weaponized underwater drones will become more accessible, enabling a wider range of actors to incorporate them into their arsenals. This trend highlights the need for robust countermeasures, including improved underwater surveillance, anti-drone systems, and international regulations to prevent their proliferation.
The weaponization of underwater drones marks a significant shift in naval warfare, introducing a new class of weapons that blur the lines between traditional and asymmetric strategies. While they share some characteristics with torpedoes, their unique capabilities, adaptability, and cost-effectiveness make them a distinct and potentially disruptive force. As state and non-state actors continue to explore the potential of these systems, the maritime security landscape will need to adapt. From enhancing defensive measures to ensuring international cooperation, addressing the challenges posed by weaponized underwater drones will require a well-defined approach.