The US Navy has formally created a command dedicated to integrating robotic and autonomous systems into fleet operations on 24 September.
The centre, known as Robotic and Autonomous Systems Warfighting Development Centre (RASWDC), will operate under US Fleet Forces Command and be headquartered at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Virginia.
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RASWDC, designated an Echelon 3 warfighting development centre under US Fleet Forces Command, will serve as a central point for the operational employment of uncrewed and autonomous systems within the fleet.
Its remit includes accelerating the process of testing, evaluating, and fielding new capabilities, while also creating direct feedback channels between frontline operational experience and the development of future technologies.
To support fleet readiness, RASWDC will conduct operational testing in various environments and coordinate efforts across different warfare communities.
The command is also responsible for establishing doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures, along with advanced training frameworks needed to prepare sailors for the deployment and certification of these systems.
Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Admiral Daryl Caudle said: “To maintain our decisive maritime advantage, we must rapidly integrate robotic and autonomous systems into how we operate, train, and deploy.
“The establishment of RASWDC ensures our Sailors are equipped with the tactical edge, advanced training, and specialised doctrine required to win the high-end fight.”
The centre’s creation aligns with the recent launch of the Direct Reporting Portfolio Manager for Robotic and Autonomous Systems (DRPM RAS).
While DRPM RAS assumes responsibility for acquisition, requirements, budgeting, and technical standards, RASWDC is tasked with the operational dimension including lesson capture from testing and exercises, doctrine development, and integration of new tactics and procedures.
According to the CNO, the collaboration between RASWDC and DRPM RAS will establish a continuous feedback mechanism: operational data from the fleet will be channelled directly back to programme offices to inform system improvements.
“RASWDC is the critical bridge between capability development and operational employment. By forging a direct feedback loop, we are accelerating the delivery of unmanned capabilities from the foundry directly to the Fleet, ensuring our forces are postured to meet any challenge,” Admiral Daryl Caudle said.
Rear Admiral Melvin Smith has been appointed as the inaugural commander and is tasked with leading a phased implementation, including command structure development and the alignment of resource needs, as the centre progresses toward full operational capability.
The US Navy specified that RASWDC will coordinate closely with existing Warfighting Development Centres, Type Commanders, and Systems Commands, complementing, rather than replacing, current operational and technical expertise.
