Funding for 'underwater Wi-Fi' to boost defence communcations
Local company Proteus Maritime and Edith Cowan University join 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.