The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has awarded a contract to SAIC to develop a new autonomous unmanned surface vessel concept to help counter modern submarine threats.

The $2m contract has a six month performance period and SAIC is one of six companies selected for the anti-submarine warfare (ASW) continuous trail unmanned vessel (ACTUV) phase I of the DARPA programme.

The phase I programme involves activities such as concept exploration, technology surveys, wargaming, risk assessment, and production of a concept design.

The programme will focus on approaches to achieve a low-cost unmanned surface vessel capable of maintaining continuous autonomous track of a threat submarine during its entire operational deployment.

Phases II–IV of the programme will include detailed design, prototype construction and testing, which will be offered under a separate solicitation.

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