What is Dive-XL AUV and how does it relate to Ghost Shark?

Dive-XL is an extra-large autonomous undersea vehicle selected by DIU and the US Navy for rapid evaluation. It shares core architecture and design lessons with Australia’s Ghost Shark program. That common lineage enables faster integration, similar payload interfaces, and production know-how that can flow between US efforts and Sydney lines, improving speed and scale potential.

What is the US Navy CAMP XL-AUV initiative?

CAMP XL-AUV is a rapid procurement and testing effort to evaluate commercially ready extra-large autonomous vehicles. The program aims to field operationally relevant capabilities quickly. It sets near-term performance gates, including a long-range demo within about four months, to determine whether platforms like Dive-XL merit scale-up and potential production buys.

How could Australian companies benefit from this selection?

The decision signals rising demand for undersea autonomy. Australian SMEs in batteries, composites, sensors, autonomy software, and sea trials can compete for subcontracts linked to Ghost Shark and related builds. Firms with ITAR readiness, cyber certifications, and proven marine testing capacity are best positioned to secure early purchase orders and recurring support work.

What should investors watch over the next six months?

Monitor the four-month Dive-XL demo results, DIU contracting activity, and any long-lead materials or tooling for Sydney production. In Australia, watch Ghost Shark test milestones, supplier qualifications, and hiring plans. Clear signs of sustained demand include multi-unit task orders, payload integration roadmaps, and commitments to local content and export-compliant pathways.

Global Market Insights

Anduril March 16: US Navy Picks Dive-XL, Validates Australia’s Ghost Shark

ByDanny Kontos March 16, 2026March 16, 2026

Anduril Industries has been picked by the US Defense Innovation Unit and US Navy for the CAMP XL-AUV effort, selecting the Dive-XL platform with an operationally representative long-range demo due within four months. The decision validates Australia’s Ghost Shark program and leverages Sydney production lines. For Australian investors, this signals rising demand for autonomous undersea systems, deeper US–Australia industrial ties, and a potential scale-up cycle in maritime autonomy. We break down timing, strategic impact, and where local suppliers could win work as adoption accelerates.