Leidos is introducing Sea Dagger concept for the Royal Navy’s Commando Insertion Craft (CIC) programme.

The Sea Dagger concept craft, with speed exceeding 40 knots, is a collaborative effort between Leidos Naval Architects, military experts, the Royal Navy, and UK Commando Force (UKCF).

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

The development is part of the UKCF programme, which aims to produce “24 medium surface insertion crafts capable of deploying commando strike teams” and various tactical platforms from extended distances, supported by training and in-service assistance.

The Leidos design leverages over three decades of experience in fast craft development and incorporates technologies such as Trusted Mission AI, autonomous systems, and integrated weaponry.

The concept emphasises operational resilience, focusing on readiness and maintainability. It is engineered to sustain its mission capabilities under adverse conditions or attacks, ensuring a continuous presence in contested areas, stated the company.

Sea Dagger aligns with AUKUS Pillar 2 maritime autonomy goals and the UK Strategic Defence Review’s aim to enhance warfighting readiness and lethality.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

According to Leidos, the craft addresses challenges faced by specialised units operating in coastal and shallow-water environments globally.

Unlike traditional near-shore landing crafts, Sea Dagger combines advanced naval architecture with high-tech sensors, weapons, and command-and-control capabilities suited for modern warfare, said the company.

Leidos UK & Europe senior vice president and chief executive Adam Clarke said: “Sea Dagger represents a pivotal step in equipping the UK Commando Force with the capability to operate with greater agility, survivability and intent in a complex and congested maritime environment.

“The Leidos design reflects our commitment to delivering resilient, future-ready platforms that can adapt to the complexities of modern warfare, ensuring capability, availability and operational advantage from day one. I am delighted that Leidos is at the forefront of shaping the maritime marketplace, domestically and internationally.”

Naval Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Naval Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Virtualitics has secured the Innovation and Business Expansion awards for its Integrated Readiness Optimization (IRO) suite. Discover how its explainable AI is transforming maintenance, sustainment and mission readiness, giving defence leaders faster, clearer, and more confident operational decisions.

Discover the Impact