OVERVIEW: The Pluto Plus ROV is a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) commissioned into service with the Norwegian Navy in 1995, primarily designed for mine countermeasure (MCM) operations.

DETAILS: The Pluto Plus represents a significant advancement in remotely operated vehicle technology for underwater applications, building upon earlier ROV designs to enhance capabilities in mine identification and disposal. Developed in response to the growing threat posed by sea mines in littoral waters, the Pluto Plus was intended to provide a safer and more efficient method for neutralizing mines compared to traditional manned diving operations. The design philosophy prioritizes minimizing risk to personnel, deploying advanced sensor technology, and offering precise maneuverability in complex underwater environments. Its compact size and remotely operated nature permit access to confined areas inaccessible to larger MCM vessels.

The primary role of the Pluto Plus is mine identification and disposal, though the unit itself is unarmed. It utilizes its suite of sensors to detect, classify, and neutralize sea mines. The ROV can be deployed from a variety of platforms, including dedicated MCM vessels and surface combatants equipped with the necessary support systems. The system reduces reliance on manned divers and significantly improves the speed and safety of mine clearance operations. While not directly involved in anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-air warfare (AAW), or anti-surface warfare (ASuW), the ROV indirectly supports naval operations by ensuring the safe navigation of waterways and protecting vital assets from mine threats.

The installation of the Generic ROV Mine Hunting Sonar allows for the detection and classification of underwater mines, providing operators with a detailed image of the seabed and potential threats. The Generic LLTV (Low Light Television) provides visual confirmation of mine targets, aiding in accurate identification and assessment. The Generic Explosive Charge Mine Disposal system provides a means to neutralize identified mines through the placement and detonation of explosive charges. The ROV's small size and maneuverability further enhance its ability to access and operate in challenging underwater environments, making it a valuable asset for naval mine countermeasures. It is presumed the system possesses adequate communications links to transmit sensor data and receive control inputs from the operator on the support vessel.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 2.0 m || Beam: 0.6 m || Draft: 0.6 m || Disp: 1 t

SENSORS: Generic Explosive Charge Mine Disposal || Generic LLTV || Generic ROV Mine Hunting Sonar

ARMAMENT: None