- Undersea mesh to revolutionise communication below the surface
- Part of Cook Labor Government's efforts to diversify Western Australia's nation-leading economy
- Grant awarded to local company Proteus Maritime and Edith Cowan University to develop the technology
- Innovation will enhance the way submarines, subsea drones and sensors talk to each other
The Cook Labor Government's efforts to diversify Western Australia's nation-leading economy have been further boosted with local company Proteus Maritime and Edith Cowan University joining forces to create an undersea mesh system to transform defence communication.
Currently, standard radio-frequency communications have limitations underwater, because radio waves don't travel through water.
An undersea mesh communication system is like underwater Wi-Fi, allowing devices deep in the ocean to connect in real time.
Instead of relying on one central hub which might fail, the devices form a "mesh"meaning each one can connect to the others nearby creating a reliable web of communication.
The innovation will not only bolster communication between submarines, subsea drones and sensors but also potentially support scientific research as well as search and rescue operations.
The undersea mesh communication system concept was originally developed and presented last year within the Exercise Western Dawn (Ex WD) Innovation Program, where it was also named the overall 2024 winner.
The highly competitive Defence and Research Teaming grant process is administered through Defence West's Defence Science Centre. Submissions were assessed by an independent panel against the criteria of novelty, feasibility, value for money, effect, and collaboration.
As stated by Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia:
"Congratulations to Proteus Maritime and Edith Cowan University for being awarded the WA Government's $200,000 Defence and Research Teaming grant.
"This technology will potentially give our submarines, and sea drones the upper hand with a clear line of communication even in hostile waters.
"We are proud of what our local businesses and researchers are achieving, and the State Government continues to invest in the defence sector to help it to grow."
Comments attributed to Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson:
"This work by Proteus Maritime and ECU could prove to be a game changer for creating reliable pathways in undersea communications for submarines, subsea drones and sensors.
"This funding is an example of how the Cook Government is working to ensure WA is at the forefront for new innovative technologies."
