Elbit Systems to supply USVs to Asia-Pacific naval operator

Israeli defence firm Elbit Systems has been awarded a contract to supply examples of its Seagull unmanned surface vehicle (USV) to an unnamed naval operator in the Asia-Pacific region.

The USVs will be specifically configured for mine countermeasures (MCM) missions but may also be adapted for use in anti-submarine warfare (ASW). Equipment will include side-scan and forward-looking sonars and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for mine identification and destruction.

The Seagull USVs will enable the operator to execute end-to-end MCM operations, handling bottom, moored, and drifting sea mines. The USVs will each have an endurance of four days and will be capable of sea-keeping in conditions of up to sea state 5.

The contract covers a period of 17 months.