L3Harris Technologies has firmly established itself as a leader in the advancement of autonomous systems, earning a reputation as a trusted partner to both the U.S. Navy and the U.K. Royal Navy. Through a series of historic "firsts," L3Harris continues to set the standard for innovation, reliability and mission readiness in maritime operations:
First company to launch and recover an unmanned underwater vehicle from an underway U.S. Navy submarine in January 2023: This groundbreaking capability, developed by L3Harris, revolutionized how autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) are deployed and retrieved — enabling seamless operation in real-world maritime environments.
First lithium-ion technology approved for submarine use by the U.S. Navy in November 2024: L3Harris was the first to integrate advanced lithium-ion battery systems into unmanned platforms, enhancing endurance, safety and energy efficiency. This milestone reflects the company’s proactive response to evolving power needs.
First torpedo tube launch and recovery (TTL&R) technology with the U.K. Royal Navy in 2025: Extending its expertise globally, L3Harris successfully delivered the first TTL&R capability to the Royal Navy, further solidifying its position as a leader in autonomous systems and a trusted partner in international defense.
Pioneering Hybrid AUV Technology for Engagement Superiority
L3Harris’ Iver AUVs are redefining the standard for hybrid autonomous systems by merging the strengths of manned and unmanned capabilities. As outlined in the July 2025 article, these AUVs are engineered for engagement superiority in complex undersea environments.
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Download free sample pages More informationEquipped with modular payloads, advanced autonomy and integrated sensors, the Iver AUV provides unparalleled situational awareness and flexibility. This hybrid design supports seamless collaboration between operators and unmanned platforms—delivering consistent mission success, even in the most demanding conditions.
Capable of operating in both shallow coastal zones and deep-ocean theaters, the Iver AUVs showcase L3Harris’ practical understanding of real-world mission requirements. This adaptability is vital as the industry accelerates toward integrated and hybrid operational models.
Advancing Power Solutions with Lithium-Ion Technology
In November 2024, L3Harris achieved a major milestone with the delivery of unmanned systems powered by advanced lithium-ion battery technology. This breakthrough represents a significant leap forward in endurance, reliability and safety for autonomous platforms. Lithium-ion batteries offer superior energy density and longer operational life compared to traditional power sources, enabling AUVs to perform extended missions without compromising performance.
The integration of lithium-ion technology into L3Harris’ unmanned systems reflects the company’s forward-thinking approach to addressing the evolving needs of its customers. By prioritizing energy efficiency, L3Harris is not only enhancing the capabilities of its platforms but also aligning with global trends toward more efficient technologies. This achievement further solidifies the company’s reputation as a leader in the development of next-generation autonomous systems.
Mastering the Challenge of Launch and Recovery
Launch and recovery remain some of the most complex operations in maritime robotics. In July 2023, L3Harris achieved a landmark success by launching and recovering an AUV from an underway U.S. Navy submarine — a feat never before accomplished.
The success of this operation emphasizes L3Harris’ commitment to operational excellence and its deep understanding of the complexities involved in maritime missions. By mastering launch-and-recovery techniques, the company has addressed a key challenge faced by operators, further enhancing the usability and effectiveness of its AUV platforms.
A Legacy of Innovation, a Vision for What’s Next
The achievements outlined above are a testament to L3Harris’ unwavering dedication to innovation, reliability and customer mission success. From pioneering hybrid AUV technology to advancing power solutions and mastering operational challenges, the company has consistently demonstrated its ability to create and implement solutions that address the needs of today while anticipating the demands of tomorrow.
As both a trusted partner and a proven leader, L3Harris is ready to scale this technology to enable the AUKUS submarine forces. Backed by a history of steadfast commitment to mission success, the company is well positioned to lead the future of autonomous maritime operations, bringing modular payloads in support of seabed and subsea warfare operations—not only as a top-tier defense contractor, but as a visionary force in global security.
