Navy opens second phase of medium unmanned vessel effort, asks industry for novel designs
The U.S. Navy has opened Phase II of its medium unmanned surface vessel effort and is inviting vendors to propose new designs. Requirements include at least 10 days of unmanned operation, capacity for two 20-foot shipping containers, and a length under 90 meters. Selected systems will undergo at-sea demonstrations and may be added to a Pentagon marketplace for maritime autonomous platforms.
The Navy's Phase II solicitation, posted Sept. 23, asks companies with backgrounds in shipbuilding, autonomy, sensing and maritime operations to take part. Proposals will be judged on technical readiness, compatibility with open autonomy systems, endurance, payload integration and how quickly they could be produced at scale.
The notice sets minimums: 10 days of unmanned operation, two 20-foot shipping containers and a length no greater than 90 meters. Earlier guidance this year had sought two 40-foot containers. Sea trials will assess speed over time, handling and fuel use. Approved designs may join the maritime marketplace.
If these vessels advance, shipbuilders, autonomy software firms, maritime workers, and coastal communities could feel effects. The Navy may gain cheaper, persistent surveillance and logistics options, while industry competition could shift toward modular, container-based designs. Questions around safety, oversight, and jobs may grow as uncrewed ships operate longer at sea.