DARPA aims for first trials of NOMARS vessel in 2024
The first NOMARS vessel, Defiant, is due to commence trials in 2024. (Photo: DARPA)
DARPA aims to begin trialling the first No Manning Required Ship (NOMARS) in late 2024, the agency told Shephard following its 22 August announcement that it would build, test and demonstrate the first vessel.
The first NOMARS ship, Defiant, will be a first-of-its-kind 210t MUSV aiming to maximise performance, reliability and maintenance efficiency whilst retaining the ability to carry a significant payload at tactically useful ranges.
When asked about the timeline for building the lead MUSV, DARPA programme manager Gregory Avicola told Shephard the agency would not be providing a detailed timeline but added it expected to begin testing with the ship in late 2024.
Large and medium-sized USVs are a critical part of the USN’s future fleet, bolstering force numbers and operating alongside traditional large and small surface combatants such as destroyers and
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