US Coast Guard enhances Arctic protection with a new Fast Response Cutter
After commissioning, FRC Frederick Mann will operate in Alaska and perform multiple missions.
A new AI tool designed to enhance SAR missions for the RAN and RAAF has begun the second phase of development.
AI-Search is a prototype which uses sensor and processor systems and is highly portable. These sensors are trained to detect orange clothing rather than black clothing, producing a detection rate of 70% compared to the 50% rate achieved by the naked human eye.
The size of the sensors and systems will allow them to be fitted to a range of platforms including rotary-wing aircraft, naval vessels and UASs.
In the second stage of development, these systems will be tested in a variety of environmental conditions. Activities may include testing on a range of aircraft, according to Wg Cdr Michael Gan of the RAAF’s Plan Jericho research team.
After commissioning, FRC Frederick Mann will operate in Alaska and perform multiple missions.
The US Coast Guard (USCG) created new units, including five Programme Executive Offices (PEOs), to facilitate and speed up the procurement of new capabilities.
The US Navy does not have a precise date for the award of the procurement contract for the third Arleigh Burke-class destroyer despite having the funds to advance with the programme in FY2025.
The US Navy (USN) is currently reassessing its acquisition efforts and seeking ways to reduce the multiple delays across the shipbuilding initiatives.
The Royal Australian Navy has finally commissioned the first Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel – more than three years behind schedule – highlighting the programme’s delays, design compromises and ongoing industrial restructuring.
The Italian Navy is being refreshed with two new ships ordered, while in the past six months steel was cut for a new frigate, an enhanced frigate was delivered and Horizon-class frigates passed a design review.