UK hunts for uncrewed surface and subsurface vessel to support future commando operations
Subsea Craft's VICTA diver delivery unit meets many of the requirements set out in the UK MoD's contract notice. (Photo: Subsea Craft)
With requirements stipulating de-risked and demonstrated technology, Subsea Craft’s VICTA diver delivery unit ticks many of the boxes for the UK’s uncrewed surface and subsurface vessel requirement.
The UK Royal Marine Commando Force requires the development of a multi-payload, low-signature, long-endurance uncrewed surface and subsurface vessel (USSV).
The USSV would be able to covertly complete surface and subsurface missions and operate completely autonomously whilst integrating with the Naval Strike Network.
The Naval Strike Network is the RN’s future digital backbone, integrating aspects of a more distributed fleet.
According to a 10 September contract summary, the desired highly flexible vessel should be capable of deploying sensors, effectors, and strike capabilities while surfaced and submerged.
The USSV would also be used for reconnaissance of operating areas for future Royal
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Coast Guard to receive the largest single acquisition funding in its history]()
US Coast Guard to receive the largest single acquisition funding in its history
The nearly $25 billion investment will cover USCG procurement of cutters, aircraft, helicopters, training simulators and Polar capabilities over the next four years.
-
![US Coast Guard enhances Arctic protection with a new Fast Response Cutter]()
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.
-
![Future of the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke programme remains unclear]()
Future of the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke programme remains unclear
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.
-
![US Navy may look to foreign suppliers to accelerate shipbuilding programmes]()
US Navy may look to foreign suppliers to accelerate shipbuilding programmes
The US Navy (USN) is currently reassessing its acquisition efforts and seeking ways to reduce the multiple delays across the shipbuilding initiatives.
