Saab UK and Kraken have developed an experimental uncrewed surface vessel intended to detect aerial drones that could threaten shipping and critical infrastructure.
The prototype system, announced by both companies on 5 October 2026, combines Saab’s Giraffe 1X 3D radar with the Kraken K3 Scout autonomous platform.
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The result is a deployable, uncrewed surface vessel (USV) designed to provide early warning and enhanced protection for shipping lanes, ports, and critical offshore infrastructure against airborne threats, according to company statements.
The K3 Scout platform features a low-signature, high-performance design, enabling autonomous operations without direct human oversight.
The vessel can function independently or operate alongside conventional fleet assets, supporting the Royal Navy’s “hybrid navy” vision, which aims to integrate uncrewed and crewed vessels across UK defence operations.
However, in August this year it emerged that Chinese-origin components had been found in K3 Scout USVs in service with the Royal Navy.
Drone detecting radar
Saab’s Giraffe 1X radar, when mounted on the K3 Scout, is designed to detect and track small, fast-moving aerial targets in real time.
The radar is already proven in demanding operational scenarios globally, but its integration onto an autonomous maritime vessel is a new development for counter-uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) defence at sea.
Saab and Kraken stated the system remains at the experimental stage, with the prototype progressing from concept to initial sea trials within only a few months.
These trials have focused on assessing radar performance and system integration in challenging maritime conditions.
Saab UK managing director Andy Fraser said: “This is a pioneering, UK manufactured, deployable capability, that together with Kraken we’ve developed in less than seven months.
“This reflects the strength of our partnership, the maturity and flexibility of our respective technologies, and our ability to respond at pace to the evolving threat landscape and needs of our customers.”
Kraken and Saab UK are based in Fareham, where the K3 Scout and Giraffe 1X are manufactured.
Kraken said it is increasing capacity at a new 35,000ft2 facility, targeting output of up to 1,000 vessels a year, following a $175m Series B funding round that valued the company at $1bn.
Kraken Technology Group founder and CEO Mal Crease said: “Kraken and Saab UK’s prototype “drone seeker” vessel is exactly what the K3 Scout was designed to do: integrate with mission-relevant payloads to then operate in austere maritime environments.”
