Textron Unveils TSUNAMI Drone Boats

Textron Systems Corporation, a subsidiary of Textron Inc., has introduced its latest innovation in maritime technology—the TSUNAMI family of autonomous maritime surface vessels. Designed to address the dynamic needs of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and allied forces, these cutting-edge vessels promise affordability, adaptability, and rapid deployment for diverse maritime missions.

A Synergy of Expertise and Innovation

The TSUNAMI family is a testament to Textron's expertise in multi-domain autonomous systems and its collaboration with the U.S. commercial shipbuilding industry. Leveraging Brunswick Corporation's high-performance vessels, Textron has integrated its proven Common Unmanned Surface Vehicle (CUSV) autonomy control system into this new platform. This partnership ensures a balance between advanced technology and cost-effective production.

David Phillips, Senior Vice President of Air, Land, and Sea Systems at Textron, emphasized the company's unique position:

"We design, integrate, and support autonomous systems across air, land, and sea. The TSUNAMI family represents a fusion of our expertise with Brunswick’s proven shipbuilding capabilities, offering unmatched maritime force strength."

Specifications of the TSUNAMI Family

The TSUNAMI vessels are available in three variants—24-foot, 25-foot, and 28-foot models—each tailored for specific operational requirements:

• Payload Capacity: Up to 1,000 pounds (453.6 kilograms)
• Operational Range: Between 600 and over 1,000 nautical miles
• Sea State Capability: Designed for operations in conditions up to Sea State 4
• Power System: Gasoline-powered for simplified logistics and maintenance

The modular design ensures adaptability to various mission payloads, enabling the TSUNAMI vessels to perform tasks such as:

• Surveillance and reconnaissance
• Mine countermeasures
• Maritime security operations

Versatility and Affordability

Textron has prioritized scalability and cost-effectiveness in the TSUNAMI project. These vessels not only meet current operational needs but can also be scaled for larger production volumes or customized configurations. By combining cutting-edge technology with affordability, the TSUNAMI family provides a robust solution for distributed maritime operations.

Building on a Proven Legacy

The TSUNAMI family builds upon the success of Textron’s CUSV program, the U.S. Navy’s first small unmanned surface vessel (USV) program of record. With thousands of operational hours under its belt, the CUSV program serves as a solid foundation for this next-generation platform.

The launch of the TSUNAMI family aligns with the U.S. Navy’s strategy to enhance maritime capabilities using innovative, uncrewed platforms. These vessels are expected to play a pivotal role in reducing operational costs while bolstering naval strength.

A Future of Autonomous Excellence

Textron’s TSUNAMI family represents a significant leap forward in autonomous maritime technology, delivering a versatile and cost-efficient solution for military and allied forces. With its advanced capabilities, modular design, and proven reliability, the TSUNAMI series is poised to redefine the landscape of autonomous maritime operations.