Portuguese Navy launches world's largest maritime robotics exercise

The Portuguese Navy has launched the 16th edition of REPMUS (Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping with Maritime Unmanned Systems), described as the largest international exercise of its kind in the world. Held in Setúbal, Troia, and Sesimbra, the event runs until September 25.

The exercise involves over 1,500 participants from 36 navies, 60 research and development companies, 13 universities, and five NATO entities. More than 300 unmanned maritime systems, supported by 14 ships, will be utilized across an area exceeding 400 square nautical miles.

Participants will test technologies designed for surface, sub-surface, aerial, and terrestrial maritime environments. These unmanned systems are intended for various applications, including warfare, maritime surveillance, and the protection of critical underwater infrastructure, such as submarine cables.