Hydrographic authority orders Exail’s new long-range USV
Exail has secured the first sale of its new long-range uncrewed surface vehicle (USV), the DriX H-9, to a major global hydrographic authority that has not yet been publicly disclosed. The deal marks a significant step in the company’s expansion in both commercial and defence markets and underscores the growing demand for autonomous maritime systems.
The DriX H-9 builds on the success of Exail’s earlier H-8 model, offering up to 20 days of autonomous endurance, greater payload capacity and enhanced flexibility to support a wide variety of missions. Designed for persistent, over-the-horizon surveys, the H-9 reduces offshore logistics requirements while extending operational reach – capabilities increasingly sought in offshore energy, subsea infrastructure and naval surveillance.
Multiple geophysical sensors
The vessel can accommodate multiple geophysical sensors simultaneously, including sidescan sonar, magnetometers, multibeam echosounders and sub-bottom profilers. Its aft launch and recovery system allows the deployment of towed sensors and remotely operated vehicles, while an adaptable mast supports optical systems and advanced communications for maritime domain awareness.
A gondola architecture, optimized for hydroacoustic sensors, ensures stable, high-quality data collection. Exail has also developed a common framework across the DriX series, simplifying fleet integration and streamlining maintenance.
“With this sale of the H-9, alongside the recent success of the DriX O-16, the DriX series is becoming a true reality at sea – enabling operations from shallow to deep waters, with expanding endurance, the ability to accommodate a wide range of sensors, and the capability to launch and recover various assets,” said Sébastien Grall, head of maritime autonomy activity at Exail.
The H-9 is scheduled for delivery in 2026. With the USV sector expanding rapidly, Exail is positioning itself as a leading supplier of robust, mission-ready platforms tailored to the evolving needs of global operators.
