Bluefin UUV passes design review

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QUINCY, Mass., July 17 (UPI) -- A surface mine countermeasure unmanned underwater vehicle being developed for the U.S. Navy has completed its preliminary design review.

Bluefin Robotics was awarded the subcontract for the UUV, named Knifefish, late last year by General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems. The Knifefish is a specialized Bluefin-21 UUV.

"We are pleased with Bluefin's ability to produce innovative designs for Knifefish while successfully meeting cost and schedule targets," said Harry Grant, director of the Sensors and Surveillance business area at GDAIS.

"Bluefin continues to serve as a key contributor supporting the GDAIS team in passing this important program milestone."

Knifefish will be a part of the mine warfare mission package for the Navy's Littoral Combat Ship. The SMCM UUV System will include two Knifefish UUVs in addition to launch-and-recovery equipment, a support container, spare parts and support equipment.

The subcontract given Bluefin by GDAIS includes an option for the production of as many as five low-rate initial production systems.