US and European special operators test Icelandic AI-based solution for marine platforms
Hefring Marine IMAS was designed to optimise vessels’ operation.
Austal USA has begun construction of the US Navy’s 15th Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) 30, the future USS Canberra, the company announced on 22 February.
LCS is a highly manoeuvrable, lethal and adaptable ship designed to support the navy in mine countermeasures, anti-submarine warfare and surface warfare missions.
To date, Austal USA has delivered nine LCS to the navy, while six are currently under construction (LCS 20-30) and four are awaiting the start of construction following LCS 30.
Hefring Marine IMAS was designed to optimise vessels’ operation.
The small, unmanned surface vehicle will operate this year in multiple operations and military exercises worldwide.
The contract was awarded to HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division and General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB). As well as for the building of the boats, contract money will also go towards improving productivity at the shipyards, workforce support and other investment.
The approved purchase is for Tomahawk Block IV and Block V missiles, control systems, telemetry missiles and communication and broadcast systems.
The Philippine Navy is fast-tracking its maritime modernisation with new warships, unmanned platforms, and international shipbuilding partnerships to bolster its regional deterrence posture.
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.