The Royal Navy has issued a preliminary notice to identify potential suppliers for its Type 93 extra-large unmanned underwater vehicle (XLUUV) programme, targeting companies capable of building the submarine, developing payloads, and providing artificial intelligence systems. The notice, published on 15 October 2026, signals the start of a formal procurement process aimed at securing industry partners for what will be one of the Navy’s most advanced autonomous underwater systems.
The Type 93 XLUUV is designed for long-endurance, covert operations in contested maritime environments, with capabilities for intelligence gathering, mine countermeasures, and strike support. The Navy is looking for firms with proven expertise in large-scale unmanned systems, modular payload integration, and autonomous navigation AI. Industry sources indicate that Excalibur Systems and Herne Maritime are among the leading contenders due to their prior work on similar defence projects and existing relationships with the Ministry of Defence.
The decision to engage external suppliers reflects the Navy’s strategy to leverage private sector innovation in cutting-edge defence technology. Rather than developing the Type 93 entirely in-house, the Ministry of Defence aims to accelerate delivery by tapping into specialised expertise in hull design, pressure-resistant electronics, and machine learning for underwater autonomy. This approach also allows for greater flexibility in upgrading systems over the vessel’s lifespan.
Preliminary requirements suggest the Type 93 will exceed 10 metres in length and operate autonomously for up to 70 days, with a payload bay capable of accommodating multiple mission-specific modules. The Navy emphasises that interoperability with existing command networks and compatibility with future weapon systems are key evaluation criteria. Suppliers will be assessed not only on technical capability but also on their ability to meet strict security and delivery timelines.
Artificial intelligence will be central to the Type 93’s ability to navigate complex underwater terrain without GPS, avoid obstacles, and make real-time decisions during long-duration missions. The AI systems must process data from sonar, inertial navigation, and environmental sensors to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining stealth. Developers will need to demonstrate robust performance in low-communication environments and ensure the software can be updated securely throughout the submarine’s service life.
The Navy has stressed that AI reliability is non-negotiable, particularly for missions where recovery may be difficult or impossible. Suppliers will be required to provide evidence of testing in simulated and real-world underwater scenarios, including validation against electromagnetic interference and extreme pressure conditions. The goal is to field a system that can operate independently while remaining under human oversight via periodic check-ins.
What is the expected timeline for the Type 93 XLUUV programme? While no fixed date has been set, the preliminary notice suggests the Navy aims to move toward contract award within the next 12 to 18 months, with prototype testing potentially beginning by 2028 if supplier selection proceeds smoothly.
Will the Type 93 be armed or strictly for surveillance? The Navy has not confirmed final armament plans, but the design includes provisions for future integration of lightweight torpedoes or loitering munitions, meaning the platform is being built with strike potential in mind, even if initial missions focus on reconnaissance and mine warfare.
How many Type 93 submarines does the Navy plan to acquire? The exact number remains undetermined, but defence analysts suggest an initial batch of three to five vessels is likely, with the possibility of expansion based on operational effectiveness and evolving threats in undersea warfare domains.