The Bottom Line

Andruil has successfully developed a new underwater drone, known as Ghost Shark, faster and more cost-effectively than the US Navy, according to representatives of the company.

The US Navy's program for autonomous sub-drones has faced delays and budget overruns, while Anduril's Ghost Shark prototype was delivered ahead of schedule and under budget for the Royal Australian Navy. This development highlights the potential for faster and more efficient production of underwater drones.

The Breakdown

  • The development of Ghost Shark in Australia demonstrates the ability to design and build autonomous underwater vehicles (UUVs) quickly and at a lower cost, compared to the US Navy's program. This could have significant implications for naval operations and defense capabilities.
  • Anduril, a technology company, has announced the successful development of its Ghost Shark prototype underwater drone in Australia.
  • The Ghost Shark program, in collaboration with the Royal Australian Navy and Defence Science and Technology Group, aims to deliver prototypes over the next three years, with a manufacturing-ready vehicle by mid-2025.
  • Anduril officials have emphasized the advantages of their approach, highlighting the speed, cost-effectiveness, and intelligence of the Ghost Shark program compared to the US Navy's program.
  • The US Navy's program for autonomous sub-drones, including the ORCA prototypes, has faced significant delays and budget overruns, as reported by the Government Accountability Office (GAO).
  • Anduril's successful development of Ghost Shark in Australia could potentially impact future collaborations between the US and Australian governments in defense technologies.