The U.S. Navy has officially launched a call to defense contractors, seeking white papers on the design, development, and demonstration of autonomous unmanned surface vessels (USVs) capable of carrying containerized payloads. This initiative follows a widely attended industry day and signals a shift toward a more streamlined approach to USV procurement.
Modular Attack Surface Craft (MASC): A Versatile USV for the Modern Navy
According to documents released by the Navy’s unmanned maritime systems program office, the goal is to swiftly prototype and demonstrate one or more Modular Attack Surface Craft (MASC) USVs that can seamlessly integrate with existing Navy surface vessels or operate independently. The emphasis is on a „non-exquisite” vessel design that leverages commercial standards for ease of construction and repair across multiple shipyards.
Speed and Scalability: Key Priorities for the Navy
Producibility, readiness, and the ability to scale up production are key considerations for the proposed vessel solution. While a specific contract award schedule is not outlined, the Navy intends to use Other Transaction Authorities and aims for fielding the vessel within 18 months of a prototype contract being awarded, signaling a rapid-pace approach.
Three Vessel Solutions: Catering to Varying Operational Needs
The solicitation presents three „vessel solutions” with slightly differing specifications. The solution deemed most relevant to the Navy’s operational needs involves a MASC capable of carrying „two forty-foot… containerized payloads that weight 36.3 metric tons (MT) and consume up to 75 kilowatts each.”
Endurance and Performance: Key Requirements for MASC
The document specifies that while carrying 25 MT on the payload deck, the vessel should achieve a minimum range of 2,500 nautical miles while maintaining at least 25 knots, at all times, in NATO Sea State 4.
Simplified Approach: Mass Production for Enhanced Capabilities
This initiative reflects the Navy’s desire for a single USV capable of being mass-produced, moving away from the previously projected exquisite Medium and Large Unmanned Surface Vessels with unique requirements and missions. Proposals are due no later than Aug. 11.
Rear Adm. Daly’s Vision: A Practical and Scalable USV
Rear Adm. William Daly emphasized the need for a practical and scalable USV, stating, „We can build this craft in numbers at many shipyards. Designs already exist. We must not over-spec this.”
