US Navy stresses simplicity in unmanned vessel design
The US Navy wants its future unmanned vessels to have simpler designs than manned ships to ensure they are relatively inexpensive and can therefore be bought in large numbers, according to an official at Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).
‘I’m really challenging the tech force to think differently about unmanned systems,’ said RADM Lorin Selby, chief engineer and deputy commander for ship design, integration and naval engineering at NAVSEA. ‘If it looks more like a manned thing than an unmanned thing, I don’t think we can afford that.’
For example, the navy should consider whether a USV could accomplish its
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Defending the Fleet: Naval air defence in the drone era (podcast)]()
Defending the Fleet: Naval air defence in the drone era (podcast)
In an era of swarming drones, proliferating missiles and saturation attacks, naval air defence must combine cutting-edge effectiveness with low cost per intercept. Israel’s Rafael is applying its long expertise to help navies adapt to emerging threats, while looking to a future of laser technology – and beyond.
-
![US Navy outlines next steps of the Aegis modernisation programme]()
US Navy outlines next steps of the Aegis modernisation programme
The US Navy intends to enhance the integration and lethality of the Aegis capabilities onboard its cruisers and destroyers.
-
![Austal signs long-delayed shipbuilding pact as industry risks persist]()
Austal signs long-delayed shipbuilding pact as industry risks persist
Austal signs long-delayed Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, but schedule risks and programme delays still loom over Canberra’s naval plans.
