Abstract : The objective of this project is to develop and support the capability for synoptic and pseudo synoptic data collection through simultaneous operation of multiple AUVs. The goal is to use synoptic and pseudo synoptic measurements to efficiently characterize near land shallow water and sea bottom environments. An emphasis will be placed on shallow water hydrographic survey and locating and mapping mine like objects near, on, or partially buried in the bottom with multiple HF side-scan sonars systems. The characterization of the acoustical and optical transmission properties of the near bottom water column will be supported as well. Furthermore, the goal is to provide cost-effective means for simultaneous multiple vehicle operation with Zodiac based launch, chase, and recovery vehicles. This will have the added benefit of providing semi-clandestine vehicle deployment.