The NATO has been testing an autonomous, uncrewed airship the size of a small bus in the Portuguese waters as a potential new tool for maritime surveillance.
Powered by hydrogen and operated by the Finnish company Kelluu, the device stands out for its ability to silently hover for up to 12 hours, collecting images and data to create a persistent situational awareness of the seas.
These tests are part of the REPMUS and Dynamic Messenger exercises, where the alliance evaluates innovative robotic technologies to strengthen its defense.
NATO’s interest in this technology comes amid threats to the security of critical infrastructures, such as underwater cables, as exemplified by the recent Baltic Sentry operation. The ability of a lighter-than-air vehicle to patrol vast areas in a discreet, cost-effective, and continuous manner is seen as a crucial strategic asset. This advantage has led several countries, including China and the US, to invest heavily in the development of airships for intelligence and surveillance purposes.
While the final results of the tests are still unknown, Kelluu’s technology has already caught the attention of the Finnish Air Force and NATO’s innovation programs, such as DIANA. The goal is clear: to accelerate the adoption of disruptive technologies that could give the Alliance a technological edge, protecting its members from emerging threats more efficiently and comprehensively.
Source: The War Zone | Photo: X @GrandpaRoy2 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
A Finnish hydrogen-fueled dirigible called “Kelluu” is participating in NATO’s annual REPMUS exercise.
The long-range reconnaissance airship covers an area up to 300 km in diameter.
And the promotional video is beautiful. pic.twitter.com/TZYsZaqE4K— Roy🇨🇦 (@GrandpaRoy2) September 17, 2025
