Robot vessels take on the dangerous work of mine hunting

Detailed summary

The conflict in the Gulf is an opportunity for the US to test its autonomous mine-hunting systems.

Traversing the Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most dangerous trips a vessel can take.

"To transit the Strait of Hormuz you need agreement between the captain and the crew to take the risk. You need war risk insurance. And the captain has to make the final decision," says Steve Cameron, a former merchant navy officer and maritime consultant.

Missiles and drones are a threat from the air, but under the surface mines may also be lurking.

"If you're a captain, you'd like to see evidence mines aren't present," Cameron adds.

Modern mines rest on the seabed and detonate when they detect an acoustic or magnetic signal, triggering a pressure wave that will break the keel of a passing vessel.

Others can rise through shallow waters or float, or be powered towards a target.

The technology itself is not difficult or costly, but the mere threat can stop a tanker fleet from sailing.

Ian McFarlane of French defence group Thales is a naval architect who knows mine warfare well. "Mines are a very cheap way of waging a naval war, as the Royal Navy is acutely aware," he says.

Finding sea mines has traditionally been the job of specialist mine-hunting vessels, with crews of around 80 sailors.

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