The German Navy is planning to test two different types of combat-capable USVs with high-readiness-level technologies after embarking on UUVs with BlueWhale.
Germany-based Hartpunkt reported that the German Navy is planning to test one lightweight and one medium-sized USV within the Future Combat Surface System initiative.
The small combatant USV is expected to be fielded in 2029, while the larger one is set for 2035.
The two USV types to be tested will have to use platforms with Technology Readiness Level 9 (TRL9) at minimum, meaning that there is a strict line on operationally proven technologies. Core requirements are autonomous navigation and operation capability up to Sea State 5.
The first USV’s requirements include gun and missile/loitering munition as armament; endurance of five days; and proven use by a navy as a near-term solution.
The larger USV’s minimum requirements are gun of at least 30 mm calibre and existing missile/loitering munitions; range of 300 nm at 38 knots; and autonomous sailing.
There are not many combat-capable USVs with demonstrations during exercises or combat operations. So far, the U.S., Turkiye, and Ukraine have reached that point, with Ukraine having a notable combat experience with USVs due to the ongoing war.
The operational experiment trials for USVs spanning eight days are planned to begin in 2025 fall.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
