The presentation introduces a novel system in which towed underwater charging stations—pulled behind surface vessels—allow autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to refuel and transfer mission data without surfacing. The approach mirrors mid-air refuelling for fighter jets, but adapted for the undersea domain.
At the core of the technology is Unplugged’s contactless power and data transfer system, capable of delivering 2 Gbps data throughput and 500 W of wireless power across a 1 cm gap. This enables a rapid 100 GB data offload in about six minutes, significantly improving operational efficiency.
By eliminating the need for fixed subsea infrastructure, the system supports longer, more discreet missions and opens new possibilities for continuous undersea intelligence, surveillance, and defense operations.
Dr. Meyer’s presentation is expected to draw attention as UDT 2026 continues its focus on next-generation maritime and underwater technologies.
Unplugged’s Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Thomas J.J. Meyer, will take the stage at UDT 2026 to present a pioneering concept that could reshape the future of autonomous undersea operations. His session, titled “Underwater Refuelling-in-Motion: A USV-Towed Submerged Docking Station for AUV Recharge and Rapid Data Offload,” will be held on 15 April 2026, from 14:00 to 14:30 in the Keynote Theatre.