NATO tests use of “undetectable, jam-proof” laser communication in maritime scenarios
Astrolight Polaris was installed in the Portuguese Navy’s Dom Francisco de Almeida frigate. (Photo: Portuguese Navy)
As part of its effort to better prepare its capabilities for operations in contested and congested scenarios, NATO evaluated a Lithuanian ship-to-ship terminal designed to not be susceptible to enemy interference.
NATO member states recently conducted trials in naval environments with a laser-based communication capability. Supplied by the Lithuanian start-up Astrolight, the Polaris ship-to-ship terminal is an “invisible, undetectable, jam-proof” C3 data link, according to the manufacturer.
Selected for the second phase of the alliance’s Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) for 2024/25, the system was tested in Portugal as part of a NATO effort to better prepare equipment for deployment in contested and congested scenarios.
Speaking to Shephard, Astrolight CEO Laurynas Mačiulis explained that Polaris provides a “less detectable, stealthier” way to communicate, enabling vessels to “securely
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Industrial teams prepare roadmap for Indonesia aircraft carrier transformation]()
Industrial teams prepare roadmap for Indonesia aircraft carrier transformation
Fincantieri and PT PAL have agreed on a framework to modernise the former Giuseppe Garibaldi, with drones, communications and broader Italian–Indonesian industrial ties involved.
-
![Denmark’s air defence frigate requirement draws growing European competition]()
Denmark’s air defence frigate requirement draws growing European competition
With no formal competition under way, industrial partnerships, production capacity and air defence capability could all shape the programme as Denmark considers how to replace its three Iver Huitfeldt-class frigates.
-
![Five years on: where could opportunities emerge next for AUKUS Pillar II?]()
Five years on: where could opportunities emerge next for AUKUS Pillar II?
Payload commonality, combat systems and electronic warfare are emerging as likely priorities as the trilateral partnership balances building submarines with sharing industrial ecosystems.
-
![Singapore expands maritime presence with future-ready Sentinel OPV]()
Singapore expands maritime presence with future-ready Sentinel OPV
Singapore is building space for uncrewed systems and future technologies into its new Sentinel-class OPVs, reflecting a wider move towards adaptable vessels capable of maintaining persistent maritime presence.
