US Navy Picks 7 MUSV Designs for Prototype Trials, Eyes 36 Vessels in FY2027
Updated
Updated · USNI News · May 22
US Navy Picks 7 MUSV Designs for Prototype Trials, Eyes 36 Vessels in FY2027
4 articles · Updated · USNI News · May 22
Seven unnamed entrants from roughly two dozen submissions advanced to the Navy’s medium unmanned surface vessel prototype-evaluation phase, with at-sea demonstrations required before October 2026.
Selected builders must prove a vessel can sail 2,500 nautical miles at 25 knots in sea state 4 while carrying up to 25 metric tons, including at least two 40-foot containers, and operate autonomously.
Each company that meets the prototype requirements will receive $15 million and become eligible for leasing, procurement or follow-on production in fiscal 2027.
The effort supports the Navy’s containerized-capability push, which aims to place payloads such as the MK 70 Typhon launcher on unmanned and other platforms without redesigning ship classes.
The marketplace model shifts R&D risk to industry and could expand to other autonomous programs, as the Navy’s latest shipbuilding plan targets 36 MUSVs under a $5 billion 2026 reconciliation package.
Which seven companies will build the Navy's new fleet of robotic warships?
Can the Navy's new acquisition strategy deliver truly innovative warships on its accelerated timeline?
How will the Navy shield its autonomous ships from cyberattacks and electronic warfare?
US Navy’s MUSV Program: Rapid Expansion, $3.1B Investment, and the Future of Autonomous Naval Power
Overview
The US Navy is rapidly accelerating its Medium Uncrewed Surface Vessel (MUSV) program to build a larger, more capable force that combines both manned and unmanned platforms. This shift is driven by the need for global power projection and homeland defense, as well as the recognition of huge opportunities in unmanned systems. The MUSV strategy focuses on skillful procurement of vessels tailored to specific mission profiles, enabling greater variety in naval forces. By broadening the industrial base and leveraging modular, adaptable designs, the Navy aims to quickly fulfill operational needs and strengthen its future fleet.