Pentagon Seeks Robot Boats to Launch Attack Drones Within 120 Days
The Pentagon, through the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), has issued a solicitation for unmanned surface vessels (USVs) capable of launching small attack drones, aiming to counter asymmetric maritime threats in contested waters like the Persian Gulf. The SWAP-USV (Suitable Warfighting Adaptive Payloads) project seeks mature, market-ready systems that can carry, launch, and control at least two small UAVs with a combined kinetic payload of over 4 pounds. The program includes a year-long contest with $100 million in prize money and a potential $200 million in procurement contracts. The first sprint requires in-water testing by fall 2026, with a goal of field deployment within 120 days. The system must be containerized for transport and capable of autonomous surveillance, interdiction, and shadowing of vessels. The solicitation cites threats from 'go-fast' smuggling boats and semi-submersibles, highlighting the unfavorable cost-exchange ratio of using expensive naval assets against cheap drones.
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