Pentagon seeks robot boats to launch attack drones within 120 days

Published Jul 29, 07:22 PM UTC

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 cheap asymmetric maritime threats like drone boats and semi-submersibles in contested waters such as the Persian Gulf. The SWAP-USV 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, shadowing, and interdiction of hostile vessels.