Pentagon seeks robot boats capable of launching 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) that can launch 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 integrated with at least two aerial drones for detection, tracking, and kinetic strikes. The program includes a year-long contest with $100 million in prize money and a $200 million procurement budget. Systems must be deployable within 120 days, fit in standard cargo containers, and operate autonomously for surveillance and interdiction. The solicitation cites the unfavorable cost-exchange ratio of using expensive naval assets against inexpensive threats. Three sprints are planned, with in-water testing starting in fall 2026.