Norbit GuardPoint sonars succeed in critical US underwater detection trials

As underwater threats become increasingly sophisticated – particularly with the growing use of drones and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) – the demand for advanced detection systems is rising rapidly. In response to this challenge, the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) and Norbit recently joined forces to put next-generation sonar technology to the test.

During a multi-week operation near Panama City, Florida, the teams successfully deployed Norbit’s GuardPoint 70 and GuardPoint 100 intruder detection sonars. Tasked with detecting and tracking a wide range of AUV form factors, the systems performed under varying depth and range conditions, demonstrating robust capability in identifying underwater threats.

The testing was carried out under the framework of a recently extended Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA), which grants both parties five more years of collaboration. This agreement ensures that Norbit’s technological expertise continues to support US government stakeholders with cutting-edge underwater surveillance solutions.

Demanding environment

“Given the challenging shallow-water environment, we are especially pleased with our system’s performance, and we are very grateful to the professional team at NSWC Panama City Division for their continued capability and capacity resource delivery as we work together. Having two of our GuardPoint solutions being challenged in a demanding environment under controlled programmes is a significant recognition of our leading intruder detection sonar capability with GuardPoint in the US,” said Eric Levitt, Norbit’s vice president for maritime security and defence. “As the threat from underwater drones is increasing globally, Norbit remains at the forefront of innovation and sonar solution provision for clients to smartly monitor the seabed and water column environment.”