Team working on a next-generation underwater vehicle includes Bluefin
This image of the Proteus was included with the press release.
Bluefin Robotics said today that is joining with the Columbia Group to invest in a next generation large submersible vehicle.
Quincy-based Bluefin specializes in the design and manufacture of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles, or UUVs. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Columbia Group is a technical services support company. One customer is the US Navy.
On one project, the Columbia Group is developing the mechanical and electrical systems for a large undersea vehicle called Proteus, which is capable of operation in either manned or autonomous mode. Bluefin’s autonomy technology is being incorporated for use in unmanned missions.
Bluefin is a subsidiary of Battelle, which is providing battery charging and systems integration support for the project. Headquartered in Ohio, Battelle has about 22,000 employees worldwide.
According to a press release from Bluefin and Battelle, the Proteus measures 25 feet in length, weighs 6,200 pounds, and has up to 400 pounds of lift capability.
An at-sea demonstration of the Proteus is planned in the spring, the release said.
Chris Reidy can be reached at reidy@globe.com.
