Defense News ,U.S :- Austal, in collaboration with L3Harris, has recently unveiled the latest addition to the US Navy's innovative Ghost Fleet program – the Overlord Unmanned Surface Vessel Vanguard (OUSV3). This milestone, marked by a successful launch in Mobile, Alabama, signifies a significant leap in autonomous naval capabilities.
The OUSV, a product of the US Department of Defense Strategic Capabilities Office's Ghost Fleet initiative, aims to pioneer prototype unmanned surface vessels. This groundbreaking effort is aligned with the evolving landscape of maritime technology, emphasizing experimentation and advancing the navy's understanding of missions that can be executed without human intervention.
The valuable insights gained from this long-term program are currently being leveraged to refine and streamline requirements for the upcoming Large Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) program. This strategic move underscores the commitment to pushing the boundaries of naval capabilities.
The Vanguard, equipped with cutting-edge features, will undergo testing and outfitting before autonomously sailing to San Diego to join its fellow OUSV1 Ranger and OUSV4 Mariner. Operated by the USV Division 1, this segment of the navy specializes in tactical development and trials, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of unmanned surface vessels.
Capt. Scot Searles, the Unmanned Maritime Systems Program Manager, expressed enthusiasm about the progress made by the L3Harris and Austal teams in constructing the Vanguard. He highlighted that the vessel, designed and built as a USV from the outset, introduces novel capabilities not present in previous OUSVs.
The Ghost Fleet program, initiated in 2018, has undergone two phases of development. The first phase involved converting two commercial fast supply ships into military USVs, resulting in the Ranger and OUSV2 Nomad. These vessels received upgrades to their hulls, electrical, and mechanical systems, showcasing increased autonomous capabilities.
The second phase focused on enhancing interoperability and endurance across complex scenarios for the Ranger and Nomad. Following their autonomous transit through the Panama Canal, the Mariner was introduced, further expanding the Ghost Fleet's capabilities.
These Ghost Fleet vessels, measuring between 200 and 300 feet in length, comparable to corvettes, are armed with 16 to 32 missile-launching tubes. This armament enables them to deploy vertical launch systems, strike payloads, as well as anti-ship and ground-attack missiles.
In conclusion, Austal's launch of the Vanguard marks a significant step forward in autonomous naval technology, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the Ghost Fleet program. The collaboration between industry leaders and the US Navy showcases a commitment to staying at the forefront of unmanned surface vessel innovation.
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