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 field a system within 120 days. The SWAP-USV project seeks mature, market-ready technology to counter asymmetric maritime threats like drone boats and semi-submersibles, particularly in contested waters such as the Persian Gulf. The program includes a year-long prize challenge backed by $100 million, with three sprints leading to potential procurement contracts worth $200 million. The USVs must carry, launch, and control at least two UAVs with a combined kinetic payload of over 4 pounds, capable of ISR, electronic warfare, and precision strikes. The system must be transportable in standard cargo containers and on military aircraft. The initiative aims to address the unfavorable cost-exchange ratio of using expensive naval assets against cheap threats.