Australian innovation for global challenges

Underwater
Acoustic Camera

Visualise sound beneath the surface

A breakthrough for defence, research and marine engineering — pinpoint and visualise underwater sound sources in 2D and 3D with sub-100mm accuracy.

The Challenge – To combine Vision and Sound Underwater

Underwater environments are among the most difficult to interpret. Light fades within metres, visibility drops and even the most advanced cameras lose effectiveness. In these conditions, sound becomes the primary source of information — yet existing tools leave major gaps.

1. 1. - Active sonar systems emit acoustic pulses that may disturb marine life and reveal the user’s position.
    - Conventional hydrophones can detect sound but cannot accurately locate its source.
    - Underwater cameras are a great added feature when linked with hydrophones to visualise underwater sound sources depending on the clarity of the water.

The Solution – Revolutionary Acoustic Imaging Technology

The Underwater Acoustic Camera (UAC) combines advanced hydrophone arrays with optical imaging and intelligent data processing to show where underwater noise originates — in real time.

By synchronising acoustic and visual data, the UAC transforms complex sound information into clear, intuitive heatmaps that reveal the exact position and movement of sound sources.

Pinpoint Accuracy

Locate sound sources to within 100mm spacing, even in low-visibility conditions

True 3D Mapping

Generate comprehensive 2D and 3D acoustic maps with full x-y-z acoustic visualisation

Passive Monitoring

Passive analysis of underwater objects

Modular Design

Customisable, scalable hydrophone arrays

Proven Technology

Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7 – demonstrated in operational environments with end-user involvement

Research & Development

The Underwater Acoustic Camera began with an ambitious idea: tracking manatees underwater for marine research. This vision evolved into HW Technologies‘ breakthrough maritime innovation, delivering unique underwater situational awareness capabilities for defence, marine engineering, and environmental research.

Developed in partnership with gfai tech Germany, the UAC combines hydrophone arrays with optical underwater cameras to localise and visualise sound sources beneath the water’s surface. Users can “visualise” underwater noise origins and pinpoint exact emission locations in low-visibility environments. What began as experimental underwater sound localisation has rapidly advanced through rigorous development.

Underwater testing with Australian Defence partners demonstrates how quickly research transforms into operational capability. The modular, scalable system adapts to various use cases, leveraging gfai tech’s extensive noise and vibration expertise alongside our innovation to provide collaborative solutions for defence and research authorities.

Collaboration

Partner

“I think this technology represents a significant advancement in underwater situational awareness. The ability to precisely localise acoustic sources while maintaining complete stealth opens unprecedented possibilities for naval missions.”

Chris Little
Centre for Innovation, Perth

Versatile Solutions Across Industries

Research & Conservation

Track marine life without disturbance

Study underwater vocalisations of marine mammals including manatees and dugongs
Monitor marine ecosystem health through acoustic analysis
Track wildlife behaviour without environmental disruption
Research underwater sound pollution and its effects
Support conservation efforts with precise acoustic data

Maritime Engineering & Maintenance

Detect wear, leaks, or faults in underwater machinery

Precise localisation of mechanical failures in valves, thrusters, and pumps
Non-intrusive diagnosis reducing downtime and maintenance costs
Real-time analysis of underwater infrastructure integrity
Predictive maintenance through acoustic signature analysis
Quality assurance for underwater installations

Defence & Navy

Stealth surveillance, intrusion detection, asset protection

Mapping acoustic signatures for stealth assessment around vessels and infrastructure

Future Applications

Expanding the capabilities of the UAC

Integration with autonomous underwater vehicles
Analyse blade pass frequencies
Quality assurance for underwater installations
Port Security

Technical Specifications

Sub-100mm

Sound Source Localisation

100%

Passive
Operation

2D & 3D

Acoustic
Mapping

TRL 7

Technology
Readiness

Modular

Customisable
Arrays

Hear

Beyond Visual
Range

Showcasing the Future of Underwater Imaging

Visualise sound beneath the surface with our new Underwater Acoustic Camera (UAC) – delivering acoustic imaging clarity for defence, marine engineering, and research.
Experience the UAC firsthand and talk to our team about how acoustic imaging can enhance your underwater operations.

Visit us

Indo-Pacific 2025: 4–6 November 2025, International Convention Centre Sydney, Stand 2L57.
WA Acoustic Conference 2025: 12–14 November 2025, Joondalup, Western Australia, Stand No. 6.

Contact Us

Tell us about your underwater acousitc imaging requiremenets…