Vanguard, the first Large Uncrewed Surface Vessel (LUSV) of the US Navy designed for autonomous operations per NAVSEA, has been successfully launched.

Developed by L3HArris and Austal USA, Vanguard is currently undergoing testing and outfitting, showcasing advancements in autonomous maritime technology.

1. Vanguard will autonomously transit to San Diego, joining sister vessels OUSV4 Mariner and OUSV1 Ranger, with two Medium Uncrewed Surface Vessels from a separate program.

In Phase 1 of the Overlord program, two commercial fast supply vessels were converted into Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) to create OUSV1 Ranger and OUSV2 Nomad.

Phase 2 of the program led to the development of the OUSV4 Mariner and OUSV3 Vanguard, expanding the capabilities of the Ghost Fleet Overlord initiative.

1. The program accelerates the service priorities by integrating mature tech into the broader Navy Unmanned Campaign Framework.

The close collaboration with the SCO on the Overlord program is reportedly accelerating the tech demonstration and the operational command and control of unmanned surface vessels.

marine insight