Ghost Shark (submarine)

The Ghost Shark is a designation referring to a class of Extra Large Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (XLUUV) developed by the Australian defence technology company Anduril Industries. This autonomous submarine is designed for a range of missions, including intelligence gathering, surveillance, reconnaissance, and potentially strike capabilities. Its development is geared towards enhancing Australia's undersea warfare capabilities and contributing to maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.

Key features of the Ghost Shark include its long endurance, allowing for extended deployments; its modular design, which facilitates customization for specific mission requirements; and its advanced autonomy, enabling operation without human intervention for prolonged periods. The program leverages advancements in artificial intelligence, sensor technology, and underwater communication to achieve these capabilities.

The development and acquisition of the Ghost Shark represent a significant investment by the Australian government in unmanned maritime systems. It is intended to operate alongside existing manned submarines and other naval assets, providing a force multiplier effect and enhancing overall maritime domain awareness. The name "Ghost Shark" is believed to be inspired by the cartilaginous fish of the same name, reflecting the submarine's stealthy nature and ability to operate in the deep ocean environment.