US robotics firm to supply USV to Royal Malaysian Navy

Los Angeles-based marine robotics specialist Swiftships has been selected to supply a new unmanned surface vehicle (USV) to the Royal Malaysian Navy.

Although the navy is in need of USVs and other unmanned craft, the present arrangement with Swiftships covers operation of the craft for trials with no obligation to purchase.

The craft selected for the trials will be capable of surveillance and intelligence-gathering missions and is also air- and land-transportable.

The USV will boast an aluminium hull, a length of 6.1 metres, a beam of 1.82 metres, a maximum draught of only 0.61 metre, a gyrostabiliser, and a petrol engine driving a waterjet. A fuel capacity of over 750 litres would ensure a maximum operating range of between 800 and 1,000 nautical miles or an endurance of five days.

Sensor options will include a radar, an AIS, a GPS, and an infrared camera. The craft may also be fitted with 7.62mm machine gun.