ZenaTech Unveils IQ Aqua AUV Prototype for Autonomous Mine Detection
ZenaTech’s ZenaDrone has unveiled the IQ Aqua autonomous underwater vehicle prototype for mine detection, autonomous navigation and underwater mobility demonstrated in controlled environments. The company plans outdoor field testing in the U.S. and internationally while targeting defense customers and commercial offshore energy inspection in a $16 billion market.
1. Prototype Launch
ZenaTech’s ZenaDrone subsidiary introduced the IQ Aqua, its first autonomous underwater vehicle prototype, demonstrating baseline autonomous navigation and underwater mobility in controlled settings. This marks the company’s expansion from air, land and surface drones into underwater operations.
2. Defense Applications
IQ Aqua is designed for undersea mine detection and countermeasure support, offering covert intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance beneath the surface. The system aims to reduce risk to divers and manned vessels by integrating with IQ Glider launch stations and interceptor drones for a unified maritime defense architecture.
3. Development Roadmap
The current tethered, battery-powered prototype will be followed by a next-generation model featuring untethered, GPS-independent operation for contested and GPS-denied environments. Multiple new prototypes are in production for upcoming U.S. and international outdoor field trials scheduled over the coming months.
4. Commercial Market Potential
Beyond defense, IQ Aqua targets offshore energy pipeline and subsea cable inspections, port security and infrastructure surveillance, reducing reliance on costly diver and vessel deployments. ZenaTech is prioritizing Gulf Cooperation Council nations and NATO allies within a global underwater drone market projected to exceed $16 billion by 2034.