Advancements in Maritime Uncrewed Systems: Schiebel’s CAMCOPTER® S-100 at REPMUS 2025

Introduction to REPMUS 2025

On October 14, 2025, NATO’s REPMUS (Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping using Maritime Uncrewed Systems) exercise convened in Portugal, showcasing cutting-edge developments in maritime unmanned technologies. Among the standout performers was Schiebel’s CAMCOPTER® S-100, which confirmed its status as a versatile and reliable asset for naval operations. This annual event, hosted by the Portuguese Navy, featured extensive multinational collaboration to evaluate the integration and application of uncrewed systems in complex maritime scenarios.

Enhanced Operational Capabilities

The CAMCOPTER® S-100 undertook various missions employing a range of sophisticated payloads, emphasizing its adaptability within naval combat systems. At the heart of its operational framework were several advanced sensors and communication systems, along with modules for artificial intelligence-assisted data fusion.

Key technical highlights included:

• CRFS RFeye Node 100-18 LW:
  • This advanced radio frequency intelligence sensor adeptly monitors spectrum activities up to 18 GHz.
  • It captures in-phase and quadrature (I/Q) data, facilitating precise geolocation even in contested electromagnetic environments.
  • By integrating this sensor, the S-100 provided real-time actionable intelligence (SIGINT), a crucial asset for commanders in modern warfare.
• AI-Driven Analytics with the Akheros Skylock Module:
  • Aligned with NATO’s DIANA (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic), this module enhances the S-100’s intelligence capabilities by enabling in-flight data examination and telemetry processing.
  • The onboard analytics system autonomously detects irregularities, significantly improving situational awareness on the battlefield.

Interoperability and Integration

A spotlight was placed on interoperability, particularly through the integration with Thales’ Tacticos combat management system. This collaboration allowed operators to command the CAMCOPTER® S-100 directly from the Tacticos interface, transcending mere data sharing to enable comprehensive mission tasking and reporting. Such advancements reflect NATO’s commitment to unified command and control across multiple domains, encompassing Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS), Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs), and Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (UUVs).

Demonstrations of Operational Versatility

The S-100’s operational maturity was evidenced by several key demonstrations during the REPMUS 2025 exercise:

• Bathymetric LiDAR (Areté PILLS/PNGS):
  • Developed in collaboration with Areté, the S-100 featured the Pushbroom Imaging LiDAR for Littoral Surveillance, enhancing performance from 60Hz to 120Hz.
  • This improvement significantly advanced bathymetric and obstacle detection capabilities, successfully demonstrating launch and recovery from a Portuguese Offshore Patrol Vessel.
• Oceanwatch PT-8 Maritime Surveillance Sensor:
  • This sensor autonomously identifies small objects on the ocean’s surface across expansive areas, underscoring the S-100’s surveillance capabilities.

Industry Insights and Future Implications

Hans Georg Schiebel, Chairman of the Schiebel Group, noted that REPMUS serves as an essential platform for validating the S-100’s extensive operational capabilities. He emphasized the strategic significance of advancements such as AI-driven analytics, multi-domain interoperability testing with Thales, and the potential for RF intelligence gathering.

As naval forces increasingly rely on technological integration and autonomous systems, the CAMCOPTER® S-100 stands out as a premier vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial system for diverse naval applications. Its demonstrated competencies not only enhance mission effectiveness but also facilitate real-time decision-making, a critical component in contemporary maritime security contexts.

Conclusion

The success of Schiebel’s CAMCOPTER® S-100 at REPMUS 2025 reflects ongoing innovations in maritime uncrewed systems, with implications that extend beyond event-specific performances. As military operations evolve toward greater reliance on automation and AI, the lessons learned and capabilities showcased during this exercise signal a transformative era for naval warfare strategy.