Shield AI and Kraken Technology Group have demonstrated two K3 Scout uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) conducting a coordinated mission focused on intelligence gathering, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) in Portsmouth, UK.
The companies announced the demonstration on September 28. Shield AI said its Hivemind mission autonomy software was used aboard the vessels, describing the event as its first demonstration of maritime autonomy in the UK.
Hivemind directed the boats to search a designated area, drawing on data from onboard radar and cameras. Automatic Identification System (AIS) data also informed the search.
After identifying and classifying a vessel of interest, the software instructed the USVs to accompany and monitor it until it had left the operating area. The boats then revised their mission plan and resumed the search.
The companies said they plan to work together on further trials during the next year, with UK and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) partners in contested settings.
“This collaboration with Kraken demonstrates how Hivemind enables autonomous maritime teams to operate as part of a larger, distributed force,” said Christian Gutierrez, Senior Vice President of Hivemind at Shield AI.
The companies said Hivemind-enabled vessels can share sensor data and adapt their missions within limits set by operators, while retaining human decision authority.
Shield AI said this approach can reduce the need for a dedicated operator for each vessel and separate personnel to manage its sensors. The software can dynamically reroute mission plans and avoid obstacles while remaining subject to established command authority, the companies said.
Shield AI said Kraken had recently delivered 20 K3 SCOUTs to the Royal Navy under Project Beehive. The navy announced a £12.3 million (US$16.3 million) order for 20 boats from Kraken in March.
The boats are intended for the Coastal Forces Squadron and 47 Commando Royal Marines. The Royal Navy said the fleet would offer an immediate capability and, through operations and development work, help test technologies for a future hybrid fleet.
