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 those in 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 prize challenge backed by $100 million, with a goal of field-testing a system within 120 days. The USV must carry a combined payload of at least 2 kg, be transportable in standard cargo containers, and support autonomous surveillance and interdiction. The solicitation cites threats from go-fast smuggling boats and semi-submersibles, and aims to improve the cost-exchange ratio against inexpensive adversary assets.