Thales has introduced the prototype of Sonar 76Nano, a revolutionary miniaturised acoustic detection system designed to transform maritime security for the UK, NATO, and allied forces. Building on the legacy of the renowned Sonar 2076, the Sonar 76Nano directly supports the UK Government’s Strategic Defence Review and Defence Industrial Strategy, strengthening national security and domestic industrial capability.
Developed from concept to real-world prototype in just ten months, Sonar 76Nano sets a new standard in agility and innovation. Its modular, flexible design allows deployment on a wide range of uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) and seabed monitoring systems, rather than being limited to large, high-value platforms. This enables greater flexibility and responsiveness across naval operations through a hybrid fleet approach, aligned with the Royal Navy’s Atlantic Bastion vision.
Key features include miniaturised, proven technology from Sonar 2076; modular deployment across uncrewed and crewed platforms; AI-enhanced acoustic detection for faster target identification; digital-native integration with existing defence infrastructure; and a rapid development cycle. These innovations support UK high-value jobs and drive technological exports.
On 17 December, Sonar 76Nano will make its official public debut with the Royal Navy at a technology demonstrator, allowing naval personnel and experts to witness the prototype firsthand.
“Sonar 76Nano is a landmark innovation and a vivid demonstration of what focused ingenuity and collaboration can achieve in a tight deadline,” said Paul Armstrong, Managing Director of Under Water Systems at Thales in the UK. “In just ten months, our teams have progressed from visionary concepts to an advanced prototype that sets the stage for the next generation of underwater security and agility.”
