Validation at sea for ulyx, the latest deep diving AUV for oceanographic research

The new 6000m depth capable AUV uly
^x
is scheduled to enter regular operational service within the French Oceanographic Fleet in 2024. Over the course of the past two years the AUV has featured a comprehensive technical validation program at sea. This article provides a description of the main features of the new system, focusing on the technological and innovative aspects introduced by the development project. An account of the main achievements of the first 76 dives of the AUV provides the outline of the path to full operational deployment.