With a focus on underwater domain awareness, the CATS-M trial series is part of an ongoing collaboration between COVE and Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) to support maritime testing and validation of innovative technologies with industry partners. This CATS-M trial integrated solutions from several COVE ecosystem partners, including Open Ocean Robotics, JASCO Applied Sciences, and General Dynamics Mission Systems-Canada.

The CATS-M trial series is a critical step in advancing Canadian capabilities in autonomous maritime surveillance.

“CATS-M highlights the value of collaborative experimentation in advancing autonomous maritime capability,” said Melanie Nadeau, CEO of COVE. “Working together in a realistic operational setting allows partners to better develop, test, and scale integrated surveillance and autonomous systems.”

The trial was held at The Launch, a remote test center in Holyrood, NL, operated by The Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University. COVE and The Launch recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance collaboration on testing, applied research, and commercialization of Canadian-developed technologies.

“The Launch was created to support the development and demonstration of marine technologies in real-world environments,” said Kelley Santos, Director of The Launch. “Working with COVE will expand opportunities for innovators, researchers, and SMEs to access the expertise, infrastructure, and partnerships needed to help bring Canadian-developed technologies to market.”

A stakeholder event at The Launch on May 12 gave invited guests the opportunity to observe elements of the experimentation and engage with trial partners.