Navy Demos USV Refueling At Sea
5 sources · first reported 2d ago
The US Navy has successfully demonstrated the refueling of an unmanned surface vessel (USV) at sea using a robotic towed connector, marking a significant step towards enabling persistent unmanned operations. The demonstration was led by the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division and showcased the ability to capture, refuel, and release a USV without any crew on board. This technology has the potential to keep robotic boats on station indefinitely, increasing their operational capabilities.
The development of unmanned refueling capabilities is crucial for the Navy's plans to increase the use of autonomous systems in future operations, allowing for longer mission durations and reduced logistical burdens. This technology also has significant implications for the advancement of autonomous surface vessel operations.
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The Navy has taken a major step toward enabling persistent unmanned operations by demonstrating the use of a robotic towed connector to refuel an unmanned surface vessel at sea.
The demonstration is seen as a step toward keeping robotic boats on station indefinitely, advancing autonomous surface vessel operations.
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