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Royal Navy mine warfare experts launch uncrewed tech from allied warship
26 February 2025
Royal Navy specialists in using uncrewed technology to detect and gather information on underwater threats have launched such equipment from an allied warship for the first time.
The Mine and Threat Exploitation Group (MTXG) successfully spent time with JS Bungo, a Uraga-class mine counter measure vessel from the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force.
X-Ray Unit 1 are MTXG’s expert operators of uncrewed underwater vehicles. They are currently in the Gulf operating alongside foreign personnel and ships as part of the recent International Maritime Exercise (IMX).
JS Bungo was the lead ship for the sea phase of the exercise in which MTXG successfully deployed and operated their Remus 300 uncrewed submersible to detect and classify objects of interest.
Lieutenant Craig Wadley, the officer in charge of X-Ray Unit, said: “IMX 2025 has helped to continue demonstrating the collective commitment to the rules-based order within the region and has allowed X-Ray Unit 1 to work alongside the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force to better understand our shared tactics, techniques and procedures.”
Effective collaboration with the Japanese Navy demonstrated the Royal Navy’s ability to use their own uncrewed equipment from a partner warship but also witness a variety of other technology used for underwater operations.
“X-Ray Unit 1 have not only been able to work collectively with the JMSDF to better understand procedures for underwater exploitation but have also been able to fully immerse ourselves in Japanese culture, customs and cuisine – a truly memorable experience and a highlight in many of our careers for sure,” Lt Wadley added.
Along with MTXG X-Ray Units 1 and 3, the Royal Navy also sent expert divers and bomb disposal teams from the Diving and Threat Exploitation Group, and Royal Marines from 42 Commando – the UK’s specialists in boarding operations.
IMX has allowed X-Ray Unit 1 to work alongside the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force to better understand our shared tactics, techniques and procedures
IMX is the second largest maritime exercise in the world, involving more than 30 nations and international organisations and more than 5,000 personnel. Exercises take place across a vast area including the Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden and the Gulf and across all domains – sea, air and land.
These exercises included diving, harbour security, mine counter measures, boarding/search operations, and using uncrewed systems with artificial intelligence integration.
They tackled scenarios covering terrorism, smuggling, sea mines and aerial drone attacks. This year’s IMX saw a strong focus on uncrewed and autonomous systems and how they are a crucial tool in tackling emerging threats.
MTXG’s use of Remus and other systems to tackle mine warfare threats keeps personnel safe, removing them from the danger area while allowing them to search, locate and neutralise threats from a safe distance.
Captain Brian Drewett, involved in the academics and planning phase of IMX said: “Being part of the Royal Navy’s contingent during IMX has been fantastic, showcasing our joint operations expertise and exceptional individuals.
“The Royal Navy is more than ships; our talented people enhance regional stability and maritime security. Collaborating with the US and allies, IMX shows how our people boost global maritime security, build interoperability, and strengthen relationships. Our people are our strength, at sea or on shore.”
Captain Amano Shinsuke, of the Japanese Navy, said: “This exercise marks an important step in enhancing interoperability between the United Kingdom and Japan in mine countermeasure operations.
“Through this exercise, we successfully demonstrated the ability to deploy UK uncrewed underwater vehicles from Japanese Mine Sweeper Tender ship Bungo, as well as the capability to launch and recover UK boats.
“This represents a significant advancement for future combined operations.
“Furthermore, the exercise has greatly contributed to strengthening mutual understanding. Despite language differences, UK personnel and Japanese crew members engaged in smooth and effective communication, fostering strong trust and cooperation.”