French defence technology company Exail has secured a major contract with a prominent U.S. defence player for the supply of 100 Phins Compact Inertial Navigation Systems (INS). The systems will be integrated into Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs), a move that underscores the growing demand for advanced navigation solutions in modern naval operations.
The Phins Compact INS is designed to provide precise navigation performance even in the most challenging underwater environments, where external signals like GPS are often disrupted or unavailable. Its compact and robust design allows for seamless integration into UUVs, enhancing mission flexibility and operational efficiency in unpredictable maritime scenarios.
“We are grateful for our client’s trust in Exail technology. We are confident that our INS will deliver the precision and robustness required for UUVs to operate effectively across varied environments,” said Carlos Lopes, Sales Director at Exail. “Over the years, we’ve worked closely with our customers to develop a navigation suite that truly meets defence challenges. Today, our INS is a global benchmark in subsea navigation.”
This contract represents a significant milestone in Exail’s international expansion and reinforces its leadership in subsea navigation technology. The company’s INS systems are already in use by over 50 navies worldwide and have been deployed on a wide range of autonomous underwater platforms. The integration of Exail’s technology into UUVs further solidifies its position as a key player in the defence sector, particularly in the realm of autonomous naval systems.
The growing adoption of UUVs by naval forces highlights the increasing importance of reliable and precise navigation systems in underwater operations. As defence budgets continue to prioritise autonomous and unmanned systems, Exail’s Phins Compact INS is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of modern navies. This contract not only strengthens Exail’s market presence but also sets a precedent for future collaborations in the defence technology sector.
The deal also reflects broader geopolitical trends, where European defence companies are increasingly partnering with their U.S. counterparts to enhance military capabilities. As naval warfare evolves, the demand for advanced navigation systems that can operate in contested environments will only grow, making Exail’s technology a critical asset in the defence landscape.
