German Navy Embarks on Search for Advanced Combat USVs for Future Fleet Operations

The German Navy is taking a significant step towards modernizing its naval capabilities by officially beginning preparations to introduce unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) into its fleet. After successfully testing the BlueWhale autonomous underwater vehicle last year, the German Navy is now turning its attention to the surface domain, with plans to experiment, evaluate, and eventually procure combat-capable USVs.

This initiative is part of Germany’s Future Combat Surface System (FCSS) program — a forward-looking project aimed at integrating both manned and unmanned systems for next-generation naval warfare.

A New Chapter in Naval Strategy

Vice Admiral Jan Christian Kaack, Inspector of the Navy, recently revealed that the FCSS program would be one of the German Navy’s flagship efforts this year. According to the newly published “Course Marine” strategy paper, the long-term goal is to create a highly networked naval force combining manned warships, autonomous drones, and unmanned vehicles. This concept also involves managing drone swarms and integrating them with existing assets like K130 corvettes.

The plan outlines the procurement of at least 18 USVs, with each K130 corvette eventually being paired with two USVs for joint missions, enhancing operational flexibility and reducing risks to human crews.

What Will These USVs Be Capable Of?

The German Navy’s FCSS program envisions highly capable unmanned surface vehicles equipped for a range of roles — from surveillance and reconnaissance to direct combat operations. The procurement process will start with Operational Experimentation (OPEX) campaigns, where different USV designs will be tested under real-world conditions to assess their performance and military utility.

The first phase of these sea trials is scheduled between September 15, 2025, and October 5, 2025, in the Baltic Sea near Eckernförde.

Detailed Specifications for the USV Trials

To participate in these trials, manufacturers must meet strict minimum requirements. Here’s a breakdown of what the German Navy is seeking for its combat USVs:

First Trial Campaign (September–October 2025)

• Platform Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 9 (Fully mature and operational)

• Autonomy: Capable of autonomous navigation using waypoints

• Remote Operation: Must support remote piloting

• Emergency Mode: Ability to operate with a minimal crew if needed

• Collision Avoidance: Initial active collision avoidance system

• Range: Minimum 300 nautical miles at 38 knots

• Situational Awareness Systems:

  • Command & Control (C2) system

  • Navigation radar

  • Electro-Optical (EO) sensor systems

• Armament:

  • At least one weapon system with a minimum 30mm caliber gun

  • Optional capability for loitering munitions or missiles

• Payload/Weight Reserve: 6 tons

Second Trial Campaign (November 2025)

The requirements remain largely similar, with a few adjustments:

• Operational Readiness: Capable of operating in sea state 5

• Endurance: At least 5 continuous days at sea

• Armament:

  • Guns as primary weapon

  • Optional provision for loitering munitions or missiles

Potential Contenders

Meeting a TRL of 9 is a demanding requirement, and only a few USVs worldwide currently meet this standard. Possible candidates include:

• Autonomous Ocean Core (Saab): A system based on the Combat Boat 90, already operational.

• Seagull USV (Elbit Systems): In active use with at least one navy, offering anti-submarine, mine countermeasure, and surface combat capabilities.

However, as per the German Bundeswehr planning office, the OPEX campaigns are purely for technology evaluation and not an immediate armament procurement process. The focus is to assess operational capabilities, integration potential with existing fleet systems, and identify areas for future improvement.

Shaping the Future of German Naval Operations

The integration of unmanned systems like USVs marks a strategic shift in Germany’s naval doctrine, aiming to enhance maritime situational awareness, reduce crew risks, and improve combat effectiveness. Through programs like FCSS, the German Navy plans to evolve into a hybrid force of manned and unmanned assets, paving the way for the next generation of naval warfare in the increasingly contested waters of Europe and beyond.

The outcome of these trials will not only determine the future of USV procurement in Germany but could also influence broader NATO naval strategies in the years to come.