Naval BMD could lose the human touch
The US is exploring a new platform for ballistic missile defence (BMD), after the Pentagon floated the idea of using unmanned surface ships.
This concept — if adopted — could one day yield a flotilla of USVs packed with interceptors to continuously patrol defended areas, freeing up destroyers to conduct other operations.
The concept is at a nascent stage but the technology to support the mission is maturing.
Navy Secretary Kenneth Braithwaite advanced the idea in May, in a written response to questions submitted ahead of his nomination hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee.
The committee wanted to know about
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![South Korea displays domestic technology capabilities with KSS-III submarine launch]()
South Korea displays domestic technology capabilities with KSS-III submarine launch
Hanwha Ocean’s Jang Yeong-sil is the Republic of Korea Navy’s first 3,600t submarine and is the first of three boats in the military’s KSS-III programme.
-
![ST Engineering Marine expands capacity, seeks regional partners for growth]()
ST Engineering Marine expands capacity, seeks regional partners for growth
The company could be looking to collaborate with other Asian nations as well as countries further afield as it pushes ahead with its shipyard expansion plans.
-
![US Navy approaches the award of a follow-on contract for Aegis production]()
US Navy approaches the award of a follow-on contract for Aegis production
Naval Sea Systems Command intends to grant a production agreement for the Aegis Weapon System covering the FY2026-FY2030 period.
-
![AUKUS update: Australian sovereignty is “paramount” as Trump declares “full steam ahead”]()
AUKUS update: Australian sovereignty is “paramount” as Trump declares “full steam ahead”
AUKUS has been under the spotlight this week as US President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had their first face-to-face meeting.
-
![US Navy acquires additional Most Aggressive Features for Virginia-class submarines]()
US Navy acquires additional Most Aggressive Features for Virginia-class submarines
A follow-on contract awarded to Collins covers the supply of up to eight MAFs to be delivered from 2027.
-
![Singapore christens first Victory-class multi-role combat vessel]()
Singapore christens first Victory-class multi-role combat vessel
The new mothership’s modular design ensures it meets the navy’s needs for future situations in both war and peace.
