Defence swells Bluebottle fleet with $176m drone boat deal


David Allen
Reporter

Australia is set to dramatically expand its fleet of solar-powered drone boats, with Defence announcing a $176 million investment that will grow the Navy’s Bluebottle count from 15 to 55.

The investment in 40 new uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) is expected to significantly boost the Navy’s long-range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability as it continues to develop similar undersea capabilities.

“Over the next five years and beyond, Bluebottle will monitor …

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