Testing and Trials

Testing is essential for validating Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs). To address these risks, an Experimental Test and Evaluation (ET&E) framework integrates research and operational testing through structured phases. The sequence begins with Hardware-in-Loop (HIL) testing, interfacing physical hardware with simulations to refine control algorithms safely. Subsequently, harbour trials in sheltered waters assess system integration and emergency protocols. The final phase, sea trials, subjects the vehicle to open-ocean conditions like waves and deep-sea pressure to verify reliability. For specialised missions, a Design of Experiments (DoE) approach defines specific performance metrics.