1. Current USVs Used by the Japanese Navy
A. JMSDF Prototype USV:The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) has been developing a prototype unmanned surface vessel to explore various roles, such as mine countermeasures (MCM), intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and maritime domain awareness. Equipped with sonar, cameras, radar, and electronic warfare sensors. Designed for remote control and autonomous operations. Focuses on detecting and neutralizing underwater mines, conducting ISR operations, and enhancing maritime security. This prototype is also being tested for autonomous navigation and integration with manned naval assets.Used in trials to assess its effectiveness in various roles, particularly in coastal waters and regions with high mine threat levels, such as the East China Sea.
B. UMIC (Unmanned Maritime Integrated Capability) Program: A strategic program launched by Japan to develop a family of unmanned surface and underwater vessels for multi-mission roles, including ISR, mine countermeasures, and anti-submarine warfare (ASW).
Modular design allows integration of various payloads, including sonar, electronic warfare equipment, and communication systems. Capable of both remote and autonomous operation.The UMIC program aims to create versatile USVs that can operate effectively in Japan's complex maritime environment, providing persistent ISR, MCM, and ASW capabilities.In the development and testing phase, with trials conducted in multiple maritime areas, including the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan, to evaluate their performance and reliability.
C. MHI "FUTURE" USV Concept:A conceptual unmanned surface vessel developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) for the Japanese Navy. It aims to support Japan's efforts in enhancing maritime security and operational flexibility. Designed for modularity, allowing it to carry different payloads for missions like ISR, mine countermeasures, and rapid response. Equipped with advanced navigation systems and AI-based control.Focuses on multi-mission roles, including environmental monitoring, coastal patrol, and mine detection and clearance. Offers extended endurance and the ability to operate in adverse weather conditions. Undergoing testing and development to evaluate its suitability for various roles in the Japanese maritime environment.
D. OZZ-5 USV: A mine countermeasure USV developed by Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co. in collaboration with the Japanese Ministry of Defense (MOD).Equipped with side-scan sonar and mine identification and disposal systems. Capable of autonomous and remote operations. Designed for mine detection, identification, and neutralization in shallow and deep waters. Can also be used for ISR and environmental monitoring.Tested in multiple sea areas, including those with known mine threats, to enhance Japan's MCM capabilities, especially around the Senkaku Islands and in the East China Sea.
E. "USV for Hydrographic Survey": A specialized USV designed by Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force for hydrographic surveys and data collection in coastal and offshore areas.Equipped with multi-beam sonar, environmental sensors, and advanced navigation systems. It can be remotely controlled or operate autonomously.Used for mapping seabed features, collecting hydrographic data, and supporting maritime navigation safety.Employed in surveying Japan's extensive maritime domain to update nautical charts and assess underwater topography.
2. Current USVs Used by the Israeli Navy
A. Protector USV:Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the Protector is one of the world's first operational USVs used by the Israeli Navy for maritime security operations.Equipped with a stabilized weapon station, electro-optic/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, radar, sonar, and advanced communication systems. Capable of remote-controlled or autonomous operations. Used for a variety of missions including surveillance, reconnaissance, mine detection, force protection, and anti-terror missions. The Protector can carry a variety of payloads, such as machine guns, water cannons, and non-lethal deterrents.Actively deployed by the Israeli Navy to protect its maritime borders, critical infrastructure, and shipping lanes in the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, and around the Gaza Strip.
B. Seagull USV:Developed by Elbit Systems, the Seagull USV is a versatile multi-mission platform designed for both anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and mine countermeasures (MCM).Equipped with modular payloads including sonars, underwater sensors, electronic warfare systems, and remotely operated weapon stations. Capable of autonomous and semi-autonomous operations.Performs ASW missions by deploying anti-submarine torpedoes and conducting MCM operations by detecting, identifying, and neutralizing naval mines. Also used for underwater surveillance, electronic warfare, and force protection.Deployed by the Israeli Navy for mine clearance and ASW missions, particularly in the Mediterranean and Red Seas, where underwater threats from hostile submarines and mines are prevalent.
C. USV "Katana":A small, lightweight USV developed for ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) and mine detection missions.Equipped with sonar, cameras, and a compact radar system. Designed for both remote and autonomous operation.Used for coastal patrol, surveillance of critical maritime areas, and the detection of underwater mines. It is highly maneuverable and can operate in shallow waters, which makes it ideal for littoral operations.Actively used by the Israeli Navy in coastal regions, such as around Haifa and Ashdod, for surveillance and mine detection missions.
D. Versatile Modular Unmanned Surface Vehicle (VMUSV):
A new-generation USV developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for multi-mission roles, including ISR, MCM, and ASW.Equipped with a modular design that allows the integration of various payloads, including sensors, radars, sonars, electronic warfare systems, and weapons. Provides enhanced flexibility for different missions, from surveillance to mine detection and anti-submarine operations. Also supports coastal defense and protection of maritime assets.Used in joint exercises with allied navies and for operations in sensitive regions such as the Mediterranean and the Red Sea to enhance situational awareness and rapid response capabilities.
3. Current USVs Used by the pakistan navy
A. JARI USV: A multi-role USV developed by China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC) and supplied to the Pakistan Navy.Equipped with a variety of payloads including sensors, radar, sonar, and small-caliber weapons systems. Capable of both remote and autonomous operations.Used for ISR, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), mine countermeasures, and electronic warfare. It can detect, classify, and neutralize underwater mines and carry out surveillance and reconnaissance operations.Expected to be deployed for monitoring strategic maritime regions such as the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean to enhance maritime domain awareness and protection of sea lines of communication.
B. Remote-Controlled Fast Attack Craft:A concept USV that resembles a fast attack craft modified to be remotely operated or unmanned, developed indigenously in collaboration with local defense industry partners.Equipped with surveillance systems, radar, and communication gear for remote control. Designed for high-speed interception and coastal patrol operations.Used for quick reaction and intercept missions, coastal defense, and surveillance of littoral zones. Primarily aimed at countering asymmetric threats, including smuggling, piracy, and terrorist activities.Expected to be used in coastal areas like Gwadar and Karachi to secure Pakistan's maritime borders and economic interests.
C. Indigenous Development: Pakistan is developing small, multi-role USVs for surveillance, mine countermeasures, and reconnaissance operations. These USVs are expected to patrol coastal waters, gather intelligence, and ensure maritime security in the Arabian Sea.
E. Jinnah-Class USV: Still in the conceptual phase, the Jinnah-Class USV represents Pakistan's efforts to develop its own USV capability. It is expected to focus on surveillance, reconnaissance, and mine countermeasures. The Jinnah-Class will likely be equipped with sonar, radar, and electronic warfare systems to enhance maritime domain awareness.
F. Collaboration with Turkey: Pakistan is collaborating with Turkey to develop USVs tailored to its specific needs. This includes potentially equipping these vessels with various sensors, communication systems, and weapons for different naval roles.
4. Current USVs Used by the Ukrainian Navy
A. Magura V5 USV: The Magura V5 is a Ukrainian-developed USV that has gained attention for its versatility and modular design. This vessel can be used for a variety of missions, such as reconnaissance, surveillance, and mine countermeasures. The Magura V5 is designed to operate in the challenging conditions of the Black Sea and Azov Sea, and it is equipped with advanced navigation and communication systems to allow for both remote and autonomous operations. In recent conflicts, Ukraine has used USVs like the Magura V5 for surveillance and reconnaissance missions, as well as to test their effectiveness in more active defense roles.
B. Kamila USV: Developed by Ukrainian defense contractors, the Kamila USV is designed primarily for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. It is equipped with cameras, radar, and communication systems to monitor maritime activity, particularly in contested areas like the Black Sea. The Kamila USV is capable of autonomous navigation and is used to enhance situational awareness in maritime zones, thereby reducing the risk to human operators.
C. Combat USVs(Marichka): Ukraine has also developed several experimental combat USVs designed for coastal defense and protection of maritime infrastructure. These vessels are equipped with machine guns, anti-ship missiles, or explosive payloads and are designed to engage enemy ships, support amphibious operations, or conduct kamikaze-style attacks. While details on these specific USVs are limited, they represent Ukraine's efforts to develop indigenous solutions to counter naval threats in the Black Sea.
5. Current USVs Used by the Indian Navy
A. SWARM USVs (Sagar Defence Engineering): India is developing swarming USV technology that involves the use of multiple small USVs working together in a coordinated manner to perform various tasks. These "drone boats" are being developed by private companies like Sagar Defence Engineering in partnership with the Indian Navy. Swarming USVs can be used for surveillance, reconnaissance, anti-submarine warfare, mine detection, and other tactical roles. Swarm technology allows for a distributed sensor network that enhances the Navy's situational awareness, especially in high-traffic or contested waters.
B. Seabird USV: The Seabird USV, developed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), is a versatile platform designed for a wide range of missions, including ISR, mine countermeasures, and environmental monitoring. The Seabird USV is equipped with sonar, cameras, and other sensors to provide real-time data and surveillance information to the Indian Navy’s command centers.
C. Maritime Mine Countermeasure (MCM) USV: India has been developing a dedicated mine countermeasure USV as part of its efforts to enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean. This USV is designed to detect, classify, and neutralize underwater mines autonomously or remotely. The MCM USV can be deployed from larger naval vessels or operate independently, reducing the risk to manned ships and divers in mine-infested waters.
D. MUNTRA (Mission Unmanned Tracked): Although primarily an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), the MUNTRA program also explores the development of autonomous surface and sub-surface vessels. This includes USVs for ISR and mine countermeasures. The Indian Ministry of Defense is actively working with defense research organizations like the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to integrate these capabilities into the broader framework of unmanned systems.
E. 'Sahayak' Autonomous Vessel: Under the Indian Navy's broader plans to enhance maritime domain awareness, they have initiated projects to develop autonomous logistics vessels like the "Sahayak." These USVs are intended to serve as autonomous logistics carriers that can transport spare parts, supplies, and fuel to support naval operations in remote or hostile environments.
6. Current USVs Used by the turkish navy
A. ULAQ Series USVs:
ULAQ AUSV (Armed Unmanned Surface Vessel): Developed by Ares Shipyard in collaboration with Meteksan Defense, the ULAQ AUSV is Turkey's first indigenous armed USV. It is equipped with anti-ship missiles, machine guns, and electronic warfare systems. The ULAQ AUSV can be remotely controlled or operate autonomously, performing various missions such as ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance), anti-surface warfare, and coastal defense. It has a range of up to 400 km and can reach speeds of 35 knots. The ULAQ series aims to provide a versatile and cost-effective platform for the Turkish Navy, enhancing its capabilities in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean regions.
B. ULAQ-ASuW (Anti-Submarine Warfare): Another variant of the ULAQ series, this USV is specifically designed for anti-submarine warfare. It is equipped with sonar systems, torpedoes, and other ASW-specific payloads to detect, track, and neutralize submarines. The ULAQ-ASuW can operate in conjunction with manned vessels, aircraft, and other unmanned platforms to enhance Turkey's ASW capabilities.
C. MARLIN-SIDA USV:
MARLIN-SIDA (Surface Interdiction Drone): Developed by Aselsan, the MARLIN-SIDA is a stealthy, high-speed USV designed for a range of missions, including maritime interdiction, coastal surveillance, and ISR. It can operate autonomously or remotely and is equipped with radar, sonar, and electro-optical sensors to detect and track surface and sub-surface threats. The MARLIN-SIDA is designed to operate in both littoral and open sea environments, enhancing the Turkish Navy's situational awareness and rapid response capabilities.
D. IDAS (Integrated Drone and Automation System):A project by Havelsan, IDAS integrates multiple unmanned systems, including USVs, UAVs, and underwater drones, into a single network for coordinated operations. The IDAS USV component is designed for mine countermeasures, ISR, and electronic warfare. It can autonomously navigate and carry out missions, sharing data with other unmanned and manned platforms for a comprehensive operational picture.
E. ALBATROS-S USV: Developed by Aselsan, the ALBATROS-S is a small, modular USV designed for mine detection, electronic warfare, and reconnaissance missions. It can be equipped with different payloads depending on the mission requirements. It is part of Turkey's efforts to create a network of unmanned systems for comprehensive maritime security, particularly in contested areas like the Eastern Mediterranean.
F. SALVO USV:Developed by Aselsan, the SALVO USV is a versatile unmanned surface vehicle designed for mine countermeasures (MCM) and ISR operations.Equipped with sonar systems, mine-detection sensors, and underwater cameras. Capable of both remote-controlled and autonomous operations.Used for detecting, classifying, and neutralizing naval mines. It can also conduct underwater surveillance and support coastal defense operations.Expected to be deployed in areas with mine threats, such as the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, to enhance mine countermeasure capabilities.
G. ARES-85 FUCUS USV:Developed by Ares Shipyard, the ARES-85 FUCUS is an unmanned surface vessel designed primarily for ISR and coastal surveillance.Equipped with electro-optic sensors, radar, and communication systems for real-time data transmission and remote operations.Used for coastal patrol, border security, and intelligence gathering missions. Its modular design allows for various payloads and mission flexibility.Currently in use for patrolling coastal waters, monitoring strategic maritime areas, and enhancing situational awareness.
7. Current USVs Used by the Iranian Navy
A. Yasin USV: The Yasin is an Iranian USV designed primarily for mine countermeasures, reconnaissance, and surveillance missions. It is equipped with sonar systems, cameras, and electronic sensors to detect and identify mines or underwater threats. The Yasin can be remotely controlled or operate autonomously and is part of Iran's efforts to enhance its mine warfare capabilities in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
B. Tajrish USV: The Tajrish USV is a high-speed, small USV designed for swarm tactics and fast attack missions. It is equipped with machine guns and anti-ship missiles, making it suitable for offensive operations, including harassment of larger naval vessels or patrolling key maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. The Tajrish can operate in swarms, overwhelming enemy defenses with numbers and speed, aligning with Iran's strategy of using asymmetrical warfare tactics in naval confrontations.
C. Taregh and Bavar-2 USVs: These are small, fast USVs equipped with weapons like rockets, machine guns, and missile launchers. They are used for coastal defense, ISR, and swarm attack tactics. The Bavar-2 is also used as a reconnaissance drone capable of carrying out surveillance missions over large areas. These USVs are designed to be low-cost, versatile, and capable of quickly reacting to threats, particularly in the confined waters of the Persian Gulf.
D. Zolfaghar and Heidar-1 USVs:These USVs are designed for anti-ship roles and are equipped with anti-ship missiles and machine guns. They are intended to serve as force multipliers in Iran's asymmetric naval strategy. The Heidar-1 is an armed USV that has been shown carrying missile launchers and can be used for both surface combat and ISR roles.
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