US Navy Taps Three Companies to Develop Prototypes for Large Undersea Drones

Defense News ,US :- The US Navy has chosen Anduril Industries, Kongsberg Discovery, and Oceaneering International to compete in developing prototypes for its new Large Displacement Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (LDUUV). The contracts aim to create an advanced drone capable of effectively delivering payloads in dispersed, long-range, deep, and contested undersea environments, addressing present and future maritime threats.

The LDUUV program emphasizes the importance of cost-effectiveness and scalability, prompting the selected companies to leverage their expertise in unmanned systems. The prototypes are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing capabilities for both subsea and undersea warfare missions, driving advancements in underwater engineering, autonomous systems, and communications.

Anduril Industries, known for its experience in developing autonomous underwater vehicles like the Dive-LD, will contribute its expertise in littoral and deep-water operations. Kongsberg, drawing from its background with the HUGIN Endurance underwater vehicle, aims to provide essential knowledge for the program. Oceaneering International, recognized for its Freedom underwater robotic solution with advanced sensors and cameras, adds a sophisticated intelligence-gathering dimension to the project.

The rigorous evaluation process led to the selection of these "best-in-breed" companies by NAVSEA (Naval Sea Systems Command) in partnership with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). The goal is to rapidly advance new undersea capabilities in the subsea and seabed warfare domain. According to program manager Capt. Grady Hill, the successful prototypes will not only address immediate threats but also shape the future employment of LDUUVs in naval operations.