In May 2022, the U.S. Navy solidified its focus on unmanned systems with the establishment of the Unmanned Surface Vessel Division One, or USVDIV One, a unit dedicated to unmanned surface vessels experimentation and fleet advocacy for the surface force. Since then, the service branch has continued to invest heavily in USV research, development and deployment efforts.
Unmanned systems is one topic that may be discussed at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2024 Annual Navy Summit in August. At the event, you will have the opportunity to hear from top Navy officials and industry experts, who will convene to share their insights on the service branch’s highest priorities and toughest challenges.
To learn more and register to attend this exciting event, click here.
Within the past year, the Navy has reached several key milestones in its journey to perfect unmanned systems, one of which was the return of four unmanned ships from a months-long exercise earlier this week.
Cmdr. Jeremiah Daley, who leads USVDIV One, told reporters that the intention of the exercise was to place these vessels – Sea Hunter, Sea Hawk, Mariner and Ranger – in a forward-deployed environment to gain a stronger understanding of the operations, crewing and maintenance demands of these USVs. According to Daley, the test was successful, bringing the Navy one step closer to perfecting these vessels.
Earlier this month, the service branch launched its new Overlord USV Vanguard, a vessel designed specifically for autonomous operations. As part of the Overlord program, the ship is intended to help the Navy investigate the use of and fine-tune USVs.
In December, the service branch concluded an assessment of the ability of engine plants to operate for lengthy periods of time without human encroachment. A core part of the Navy’s plan for the developing manned-unmanned Hybrid Fleet, these engine plants were put through a 720 hour evaluation in which they met the necessary requirements needed for unmanned vessels to operate for 30 days.
The Navy also recently created Task Force 59.1, a group dedicated to speeding up the delivery of unmanned systems to warfighters with a focus on maritime security in the Middle East.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn more about current Navy priorities from experts across the service branch! Click here to secure your spot at the 2024 Annual Navy Summit.
