Metal Shark starts production on HSMUSVs as US shipyard targets further Caribbean orders
Metal Shark’s new High Speed Maneuverable Unmanned Surface Vessel on display in Washington, DC. (Photo: author)
Louisiana-based Metal Shark shipyard has begun production on its recently debuted High Speed Maneuverable Unmanned Surface Vessel (HSMUSV). Speaking with Shephard at Modern Day Marine (MDM) in Washington, DC, the company offered updates on current and future projects, including platforms for Caribbean naval forces.
A total of six HSMUSVs have been under production for an undisclosed customer, the company said, noting that the military vessel will have a length of 6.4m, a top speed of 40 knots and a range of more than 500 nautical miles. The model showcased at Modern Day Marine had AeroVironment’s Switchblade 300 loitering munition onboard.
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
Australia’s A$12 billion Perth shipyard upgrade offers positive sign for AUKUS
While the Australian government insists the investment is predominantly aimed at strengthening the country’s defence capabilities, the upgrade also bodes well for the AUKUS pact which Australia’s defence minister said “is going well”.
-
Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.
-
Royal Canadian Navy will start operating class 2 UAVs in 2028
Acquired under Canada’s Department of National Defence ISTAR UAS project, the drones will be deployed from the Halifax-class frigates.
-
US Navy prepares next step of the F-35 Block 4 upgrade while GAO predicts acquisition delays
The US Navy published a pre-solicitation notice of intent for the third phase of the F-35 Reprogramming Verification & Validation System. Meanwhile, with a five-year delay in its schedule, GAO foresees more postponements in the completion of the Block 4 effort.