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
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![HMS Anson’s milestone stay in Australia cut short during AUKUS deployment]()
HMS Anson’s milestone stay in Australia cut short during AUKUS deployment
The Astute-class submarine’s visit to Australia was the first time maintenance activity on a UK Royal Navy nuclear submarine had been carried out in the country.
-
![US Pentagon claims to have severely damaged Iranian capabilities, promises to increase attacks]()
US Pentagon claims to have severely damaged Iranian capabilities, promises to increase attacks
US military authorities claim to have sunk 20 Iranian vessels and destroyed Tehran’s Air Force, with the Pentagon making plans to send additional assets to the region.
-
![Greece’s newly commissioned FDI frigate deployed to Cyprus]()
Greece’s newly commissioned FDI frigate deployed to Cyprus
The recent naval modernisation efforts by the Hellenic Navy have been bolstered by the acquisition of advanced Naval Group frigates, the first of which was delivered in December 2025 and is now playing a crucial role in the latest Middle East conflict.
