The iRobot Transphibian is a man-portable, fin-powered AUV and bottom-crawler that can autonomously insert itself into the water and operate in a very shallow area.
The fins enable the robot to navigate with 6 degrees of freedom, even in surge, to avoid obstacles and maneuver in tight spaces.
The Transphibian can carry a wide array of payloads and is designed for mine detection, harbor defense and surveillance.
It employs a hybrid navigation system that allows it to operate in both shallow surf zones and in deeper waters.
The Transphibian was initially developed by the Nekton Corporation in Durham, North Carolina.