Bold Machina (BOMA) 26 brought together NATO maritime Special Operations Forces, industry and academia to test and evaluate emerging technologies in an operational environment. Technologies evaluated during the programme ranged from crewed and uncrewed platforms to underwater communications and counter-drone systems.
During the event, Unplugged showcased how subsea equipment can be connected and disconnected wirelessly, eliminating the need for a conventional exposed electrical connection between the two systems.
For autonomous underwater vehicles and other subsea platforms, this capability can enable a vehicle to dock, recharge and exchange data while remaining underwater. Unplugged develops inductive subsea interfaces combining wireless power with high-speed data communication, with technology designed for harsh subsea environments. Unplugged
“With wireless technology, systems can connect, communicate and recharge without requiring a traditional mechanical electrical connection. This is an important building block for increasing autonomy at sea.”
Dr. Thomas J.J. Meyer, Unplugged
Participation in Bold Machina also provided an opportunity to demonstrate the technology directly to operational users and receive feedback in conditions closer to its intended application.
The accompanying video shows Unplugged’s technology during Bold Machina 2026 and an interview with Dr. Thomas J.J. Meyer discussing the technology and the company's development within the defence sector.