The framework agreement is for the acquisition of a coastal drone (USV) and a 6000m drone (AUV)

The framework agreement, valued at 6 billion EUR, is awarded by the Service hydrographique et océanographique de la Marine (SHOM) for the acquisition of a coastal unmanned surface vehicle (USV), such as the DriX H-9, and a 6000m autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), like the Hugin Superior from Kongsberg Discovery, to support hydrographic and oceanographic missions including seabed mapping and environmental data collection. These drones complement existing assets like the previously received DriX H-8 'Marlin' and are part of a broader fleet renewal plan, including new hydrographic vessels (BHNG) starting in 2028, enhancing data acquisition from coastal to deep-sea areas. The agreement spans 8 years to ensure long-term capabilities for military and civilian needs.