Forcys, a global provider of maritime defense solutions, works with exclusive technology partners to deliver advanced capabilities for naval and defense operators. Read more >>
One such partner is Wavefront Systems, the developer of the Solstice Multi Aperture Sonar (MAS), which is setting new benchmarks in underwater autonomy by enabling safer and more efficient mission execution.
Balancing Performance and Practicality
Solstice MAS bridges the gap between traditional side-scan sonar and synthetic aperture systems. Tailored for small to medium-sized autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), it produces imaging performance comparable to synthetic aperture sonar (SAS) while maintaining the ruggedness and ease of deployment required for operational use. This balance makes it suitable for missions such as mine hunting, hydrographic survey, salvage, search-and-rescue (SAR), and unexploded ordnance (UXO) disposal.
James Spinks, Technical Sales Manager (Asia Pacific) at Forcys, commented, “Solstice strikes the perfect balance between cutting-edge performance and practical deployment. It’s a system that delivers exceptional imaging while remaining robust and reliable for diverse maritime operations.”
Operational Flexibility
The system is capable of operating effectively in shallow water at depths as low as 8 meters, extending to a maximum operating depth of 600 meters. This flexibility enables smaller AUV platforms to conduct missions that previously required larger, more complex systems.
A recent example of this versatility came in late 2023, when Wavefront collaborated with Voyis and L3Harris to integrate Solstice into the Iver4 900 AUV. The combined payload, delivered to a NATO Navy, was engineered to detect, classify, and identify mine-like objects, enabling critical tasks to be performed without exposing personnel to hazardous conditions.
Spinks added, “By combining Solstice’s detection and classification capabilities with Voyis’ laser scanner and camera, the payload ensures critical identification tasks are conducted remotely.”
Technical Enhancements
Solstice MAS incorporates features such as real-time array calibration and multipath suppression, delivering consistent image quality even in difficult seabed environments. Its alignment with Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) trends also supports rapid mission planning, efficient data processing, and reduced logistical demands.
Evolving Underwater Autonomy
Far more than a sonar product, Solstice MAS reflects Wavefront Systems’ innovation and Forcys’ role in bringing advanced technologies to defense and commercial operators. By equipping platforms with adaptable and reliable sonar capabilities, it is contributing to the evolution of underwater autonomy and redefining standards in modern maritime operations.
