Organization. The items that name it, and who it appears alongside.
Thales secured a $53.9 million contract from the US Navy for naval drones. The deal was announced on November 2, 2026. No further details on the scope or timeline of the contract were provided. The agreement highlights Thales' expanding role in unmanned naval systems.
Babcock expanded its ARMOR Force Framework by partnering with seven companies—CUBEDIN, Exail, Hensoldt, Kraken Technology Group, SH Defence, Stormborn, and Thales—to integrate autonomous naval technologies, including platforms, sensors, and mission systems. The framework provides navies with a unified operational system, combining crewed, lean-crewed, and uncrewed systems under a common architecture while maintaining human oversight. Babcock acts as the systems integrator, ensuring accountability, certification, and through-life support for deployable hybrid naval capabilities. The open and modular design allows for future expansion as technologies and requirements evolve.
Exail has joined Babcock’s ARMOR Force framework, announced at Euronaval 2026, to advance autonomous naval capabilities. The initiative integrates crewed, lean-crewed, and uncrewed systems under a unified operational environment, led by Babcock as systems integrator. Exail will provide expertise in uncrewed maritime systems and autonomous technologies to enhance naval reach and mission effectiveness. The framework includes partners like Thales and Hensoldt and uses an open, modular architecture to adapt to future needs.
HII and Thales demonstrated the Expeditionary PathMaster system’s capability to perform a fully autonomous mine countermeasure mission. The test showcased end-to-end functionality, including detection, classification, and neutralization of underwater threats. The collaboration highlights advancements in autonomous maritime technology for naval operations. The system aims to enhance mine-clearing efficiency and safety for military applications.
Babcock has expanded its ARMOR Force framework by partnering with Thales, Kraken Technology Group, and five other companies to integrate crewed and uncrewed naval fleets. The framework aims to provide navies with a single accountable integrator for platforms, sensors, and mission systems, supported by Babcock’s facilities in Rosyth and Devonport. Babcock emphasizes commanded autonomy, ensuring human oversight while leveraging technology for operational advantage. The company plans an early 2027 demonstration for the Royal Navy using HMS Venturer and an HII vessel, though no contract is confirmed.
Naval Group and Thales launched CortAIx France on November 5, 2026, to enhance artificial intelligence capabilities for naval applications. The initiative aims to develop advanced AI solutions tailored for defense and maritime security. CortAIx France will focus on improving decision-making, autonomy, and operational efficiency in naval systems. The collaboration combines expertise from both companies to strengthen France’s position in naval AI innovation.