SEAir Officially Launches ARROW USV Program to Strengthen Europe’s Maritime Security

SEAir has officially launched the ARROW USV (Uncrewed Surface Vessel) program, a major new initiative aimed at enhancing European maritime security. With over 90,000 kilometers of coastline and growing maritime threats, Europe is now turning to faster and more advanced unmanned technology to protect its waters. The ARROW project is set to become a key part of that strategy.

The ARROW vessel is a 12-metre hydrofoil-powered craft capable of operating with or without a crew. Designed for speed and efficiency, it can travel at 35 to 45 knots and cover up to 400 nautical miles, all while consuming 50% less fuel. The vessel is also built for low visibility and minimal wake, allowing for stealthy operations in sensitive environments.

This program is being led by SEAir, a French maritime innovation company, and involves a consortium of 10 European partners. These include eight SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) and two Research and Technology Organizations (RTOs) from eight EU member states and associated countries. Some of the key names involved are C&V Defence, Maritime Robotics AS, Riga Technical University, Tallinn University of Technology, and Maxwell Applied Tech.

Funded by the European Defence Fund (EDF) with a budget of €7.5 million, the ARROW program is scheduled to deliver a fully autonomous USV platform by 2028. The EDF’s mission is to support innovation and strengthen the strategic autonomy of Europe’s defense sector by investing in collaborative projects like this one.

The ARROW program was highlighted at Euronaval 2024, where SEAir also showcased new USV designs, including the SCP120, a model derived from the ARROW concept. The project is currently in the design phase, with a prototype expected by 2027 to begin sea trials.

As Europe faces increasing challenges in protecting its maritime borders and infrastructure, the ARROW USV is expected to offer a cost-effective, agile, and high-performance solution for future naval operations.