New UK-built multi-role USV departs for Canada

An unmanned surface vehicle (USV) built by UK-based Zero USV has left UK waters following successful trials in Plymouth, bound for Canada where it will join Leeway Marine’s operational fleet under its new name of Viper.

Leeway Marine has been appointed as Zero USV’s first international franchisee, with exclusive rights to operate the 11.55-metre USV in Canada and the wider region on a charter basis.

Designed from the keel up for extended autonomous missions, Viper features a hybrid-electric twin propulsion system, advanced autonomy from AI software company Marine AI, and a mission-flexible platform suitable for defence, survey, and border security operations.

"This is a meaningful step in our global expansion, and one that shows the increasing demand for high-performance, uncrewed platforms that don’t rely on costly ownership models," said Matthew Ratsey, Founder of Zero USV.

Ratsey had earlier said that the craft was designed with safety and efficiency in mind, being able to take on offshore over-the-horizon tasks that would typically require a crew, thus eliminating on-water risks and associated costs, including environmental benefits afforded by it being crewless.

Viper is expected to enter operational trials in Canadian waters later this summer.