The introduction of Blueprint Subsea’s ArtemisHHC (Handheld Controller) marks a significant step forward in underwater operational capability for divers operating within defence and specialist maritime environments. Officially launched at SOF Week 2026, ArtemisHHC represents a shift away from traditional topside-dependent ROV control systems toward a truly integrated, diver‑centric solution that enhances situational awareness, mission flexibility, and operational independence in subsea domains.

At its core, ArtemisHHC is a compact handheld navigation and control system designed specifically for use by divers in challenging real-world conditions. Unlike conventional ROV operations; where command and control are typically restricted to a surface vessel or support platform, ArtemisHHC places that capability directly in the hands of the diver. This fundamentally changes how subsea missions can be executed, particularly in defence applications where agility, discretion, and decentralised control are critical.

A Fully Integrated Diver Control Ecosystem

ArtemisHHC combines multiple operational functions into a single platform, including:

• ROV and drone vehicle control
• Underwater navigation
• Mission planning tools
• Acoustic text messaging for subsea communications

This level of integration eliminates the need for multiple standalone systems or reliance on topside operators to relay commands. For defence divers, this translates into faster decision-making, reduced operational latency, and improved tactical autonomy.

The inclusion of acoustic text messaging is particularly noteworthy. Underwater communication has traditionally been a limiting factor in coordinated operations, often constrained to basic acoustic signalling or tethered comms. ArtemisHHC enables divers to exchange structured information in environments where visibility and traditional communications are degraded; supporting coordinated multi-platform operations between divers, ROVs, and other subsea assets.

Vehicle-Agnostic Flexibility

One of the defining features of ArtemisHHC is its vehicle-agnostic architecture. Initially developed and tested with the Blueye Robotics X3 ROV, the system is not tied to a single platform. Instead, it is designed to support a wide range of underwater ROVs and even aerial drones, offering interoperability across different mission profiles.

For defence users, this flexibility is critical. It allows ArtemisHHC to be integrated into existing fleets without requiring wholesale platform replacement, enabling:

• Rapid deployment across mixed vehicle inventories
• Seamless integration into joint or coalition operations
• Future-proofing against evolving technology ecosystems

The ability to control both subsea and aerial systems also hints at emerging cross-domain operational capabilities, where divers can coordinate assets above and below the surface from a single interface.

Enhancing Operational Capability for Defence Divers

The operational impact of ArtemisHHC is most clearly realised in its application to defence missions. In roles such as:

• Mine countermeasures (MCM)
• Underwater reconnaissance and inspection
• Harbour and asset security
• Special operations maritime tasks

Divers are often required to operate in austere, GPS-denied, and communication-limited environments. ArtemisHHC directly addresses these challenges by providing:

1. Increased Autonomy

Divers no longer rely on constant support from a surface vessel or remote pilot. Instead, they can deploy and control ROVs independently, enabling quieter, more discreet operations.

2. Improved Situational Awareness

By integrating navigation, vehicle telemetry, and mission data into a single handheld interface, ArtemisHHC enhances the diver’s understanding of both their own position and the operational environment.

3. Reduced Operational Footprint

Traditional ROV deployments often require significant deck space, power, and personnel. ArtemisHHC supports lightweight, diver-deployable systems, reducing logistical burdens and enabling rapid-response missions.

4. Enhanced Coordination

Through acoustic messaging and shared control capability, ArtemisHHC supports coordination between multiple divers and autonomous systems, improving mission effectiveness in complex scenarios.

A Step Change in Underwater Operations

The ArtemisHHC represents more than just a new piece of equipment—it signals a broader evolution in subsea operations. By decentralising control and empowering divers with advanced tools, it enables a new concept of operations where divers act as fully integrated node operators within a distributed maritime system.

For defence organisations, this translates into:

• Greater operational flexibility
• Enhanced mission effectiveness
• Reduced reliance on vulnerable surface assets
• Improved adaptability to emerging threats and environments

As underwater operations continue to increase in complexity and importance, systems like ArtemisHHC will play a key role in shaping the future of subsea warfare and maritime security.

For more information on the ArtemisHHC, please Contact the BlueZone Group sales team.

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ArtemisHHC Testing (Photo credit: Blueprint Subsea).