Presenting an exciting new development in naval technology, a consortium helmed by Estonian shipbuilder Baltic Workboats (BWB), has outdone competitors to secure 95 million euros in funding from the European Defence Fund. Their mission? To spearhead the enhancements of naval operational capabilities across Europe with a novel concept: the EUROGUARD.
EUROGUARD: A Game Changer in Naval Tactics
The EUROGUARD project is bold—a new class of naval vessels that is not only semi-autonomous but modular as well, equipped with a remote control system and adaptable for an array of missions. This innovative concept is set to redefine many aspects of naval command and support roles in fleets across European nations.
BWB, stationed at Nasva, Saaremaa, heads a consortium of 23 noteworthy companies and research institutions sourced from significant maritime nations—France, Spain, Netherlands, Italy, Norway, Denmark, and more. The group’s sterling effort was rewarded with a 95 million euros funding package—comprising 65 million euros from the European Defence Fund and an additional 30 million euros from the participating players.
From Blueprint to Reality: BWB’s Role
BWB’s coveted role in this project? They hold the responsibility for building the trial vessel, with all operations taking place at their Nasva-manufacturing facility, Saaremaa. In a remarkable display of national collaboration, the prototype will undergo sea trials within Estonian waters, working closely with the Estonian Navy.
The concept of EUROGUARD centers around its modularity—the ability to be configured according to specific functions or roles—and the semi-autonomous drive. Also, the blueprint also brings into focus green initiatives in the propulsion system, ensuring environmental sustainability stays central to the design.
Estonia: An Essential Player in Advancing Maritime Technology
BWB’s CEO, Margus Vanaselja, acknowledged the recognition of the company’s dedication and strength in the industry. The responsibility of commanding such an ambitious project is a testament to not only the corporation’s prowess but also highlights Estonia’s significance in the maritime field.
Both the Estonian Ministry of Defence and the Estonian Navy played a pivotal role in the early phases of the project’s conception, beginning in 2021. Their collaborations with the consortium helped outline precise expectations for the project, focusing on cost-effectiveness and functionality.
The Fully-Integrated Future of Naval Operations
As per Commodore Jüri Saska, the Commander of the Estonian Navy, the military eagerly anticipates the results of this significant project. The move to integrate unmanned and manned systems is a progressive step for military outfits worldwide, which are rapidly embracing this technology.
Kusti Salm, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, also echoed this sentiment. Highlighting the importance of projects like EUROGUARD to Estonia, he accentuated the impact on the maritime field — heralding a revolutionary switch towards modularity and autonomy.
The European Defence Fund’s guiding principle is to bolster the European defense industry and encourages breakthroughs in research and development. For this very purpose, the fund offers support for innovative defense initiatives, aiming for harmonized defense capabilities throughout Europe. The EUROGUARD project embodies this mission perfectly – welcome aboard to the future of naval sailing.
