Leidos Unveils Affordable and Modular ‘Sea Dart’ Underwater Drone for Modern Naval Missions

American defense technology giant Leidos has introduced a new game-changer in underwater defense systems — the Sea Dart, a highly versatile and low-cost uncrewed underwater vessel (UUV). With a price tag starting at just $150,000, the Sea Dart is touted as one of the most cost-effective underwater platforms available today, offering a price point up to 80 to 90 percent lower than other small UUVs in the market.

The Sea Dart stands out due to its modular and reconfigurable design, allowing it to be rapidly adapted for a variety of missions — from reconnaissance and surveillance to underwater mapping, mine detection, and more. This adaptability makes it highly suitable for modern naval operations, especially for countries and organizations seeking advanced undersea capabilities without the heavy financial burden.

One of the key factors contributing to the Sea Dart's affordability is its use of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) technologies. Instead of developing expensive proprietary systems, Leidos has built the Sea Dart using components that are already available in the commercial market. This approach significantly reduces development and production time while also ensuring easier maintenance and part replacement.

Key Specifications and Features of the Sea Dart:

• Cost: Starts at approximately $150,000 per unit

• Design: Modular and easily reconfigurable for multiple mission types

• Construction: Utilizes commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) components to reduce costs

• Size: Compact, designed for easy transport and deployment

• Deployment Options: Can be launched from shorelines, ships, or submarines

• Applications: Intelligence gathering, mine countermeasures, maritime security, seabed survey, and more

• Endurance: Designed for extended underwater missions with efficient power systems

• Control System: Can operate autonomously or be guided remotely

The Sea Dart has been developed with cost-efficiency, mission flexibility, and rapid deployment in mind. By reducing reliance on expensive defense-grade parts and focusing on adaptability, Leidos is offering a solution that can serve both military and commercial operators with limited budgets but high demands.

With threats evolving in the maritime domain, especially in contested and littoral waters, systems like the Sea Dart could become crucial tools for navies and maritime agencies around the world. As nations look to scale up their underwater surveillance and defense capabilities, the Sea Dart's affordability and flexibility may position it as a front-runner in the next generation of uncrewed underwater systems.