As global navies race to develop autonomous systems, the Royal Navy is quietly advancing one of the UK's most ambitious defence technology programmes. Known as Project CETUS, the initiative is exploring how large uncrewed underwater vehicles (XLUUVs) could transform naval operations over the coming decades. Rather than replacing conventional submarines, Project CETUS is designed to demonstrate what autonomous underwater platforms can achieve alongside crewed fleets. From intelligence gathering to seabed surveillance, the programme offers a glimpse into the future of maritime defence. What is Project CETUS? Project CETUS is a technology demonstrator commissioned by the UK Ministry of Defence to develop an Extra Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle (XLUUV) for the Royal Navy. The vehicle has been built by Plymouth-based MSubs Ltd under the oversight of the Submarine Delivery Agency. Photo: Royal Navy / inside Cetus Measuring approximately 12 metres in length and weighing around 19 tonn...
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