GARC/TALONS demonstrated for LCS mission module
The US Navy has carried out an at-sea demonstration of the Greenough Advanced Rescue Craft (GARC) and Towed Airborne Lift of Naval Systems (TALONS) as part of the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Mission Module programme.
The GARC/TALONS prototype is being evaluated to provide enhanced communication ranges for the LCS Mine Countermeasure (MCM) mission package. The goal is to reduce the time needed to clear a minefield.
GARC is a USV that deploys a parafoil-based system to relay data between the MCM USV and the LCS. TALONS relays data between the MCM USV and the LCS via the government-developed multi-vehicle communication relays system.
Godfrey Weekes, LCS Mission Module program manager, said: ‘This achievement marks an important landmark in the potential acquisition of an enhanced communication range solution for the navy. From concept to at-sea demonstration within ten months is quite remarkable and is in alignment with senior navy direction toward rapid acquisition.’
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Thales’ multirole missile delivers “tactical excellence” for UK Royal Navy]()
Thales’ multirole missile delivers “tactical excellence” for UK Royal Navy
The latest trials of Thales’ Lightweight Multirole Missile in two locations proved its effectiveness in combatting real-world uncrewed threats.
-
![Royal Canadian Navy’s SEA Torpedo Launcher Systems to enter production in Ottawa in November]()
Royal Canadian Navy’s SEA Torpedo Launcher Systems to enter production in Ottawa in November
The article acceptance testing for the TLS is scheduled for the end of 2026.
-
![Netherlands to acquire Finnish littoral assault craft in LCVP replacement programme]()
Netherlands to acquire Finnish littoral assault craft in LCVP replacement programme
The Dutch navy had reportedly been considering BAE Systems’ Littoral Strike Craft to replace its ageing landing craft fleet.
-
![Swedish navy moves to final phase of Blekinge-class sub production with new Saab order]()
Swedish navy moves to final phase of Blekinge-class sub production with new Saab order
Saab Kockums was initially awarded the contract to build two A26 submarines for the Royal Swedish Navy in 2015, but the programme has faced delays and escalating costs.
-
![Germany goes for more US equipment for F127 frigates with SPY-6 radar choice]()
Germany goes for more US equipment for F127 frigates with SPY-6 radar choice
If the foreign military sale request is approved, Germany would be the first country outside the US to acquire the technology, which is currently used extensively by the US Navy.
