This contract was awarded through a joint venture involving Zelenza, its Vigo-based subsidiary Seadrone, and HI Iberia. The objective is to develop a system to help neutralize the so-called "narco-boats" that operate primarily in the Strait of Gibraltar, a common route for transporting goods related to drug trafficking. These vessels are constantly being upgraded by the criminal groups that operate them, and law enforcement agencies have been demanding increasingly specialized and effective responses for their interception. The solution will be a high-speed USV (Urban Surveillance Vessel) that will allow for the complete patrol and interception of these vessels, from a distance and for the time necessary to board them. All of this will be achieved without endangering or causing physical harm to either the crew of the intercepted vessel or the law enforcement personnel.
Zelenza, through its subsidiary Seadrone, which has specialized in the development of autonomous vessels for over 10 years and already manufactures the SEAD 23, the first maritime USV drone for the Spanish Navy, will develop this drone system with global capabilities and perception for prevention, deterrence, detection, and response to preserve the integrity and security of Spanish maritime spaces. This new system will consist of a USV vessel for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and interception missions, as well as a deployable stealth USV, interception devices, integrated command and control systems, a simulation system for training, and Zelenza's Swarming technology for Artificial Intelligence and Swarms, which guarantees the autonomy of the devices and their operability in areas with compromised communications.
“It is an honor that Zelenza and Seadrone have been selected to develop this project, which will aid in the fight against the scourge of drug trafficking,” says Pedro Alfaro, CEO of Zelenza. “Technology is allowing us to find new ways to combat crime while reducing the risk to law enforcement involved in these operations. We hope our technology will help create safer waters and make the work of our officers safer.”.
This system is expected to be incorporated into the HS60 interceptors, patrol boats of the Maritime Service of the Civil Guard, and will play a crucial role in the fight against drug trafficking in the coming years.
