Royal Navy Tests Swarm of Five USVs with Crewed Ships
In recent months, the Royal Navy acquired at least seven purpose-built Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USVs) called RATTLER, each 7.2 meters long, to advance its experimental and operational capabilities.
Latest Trials in Scottish Waters
During a key trial, five RATTLER USVs operated simultaneously at sea near Scotland alongside crewed vessels. They were controlled remotely from over 500 miles away using consoles on the experimental testbed ship XV PATRICK BLACKETT.
Coordinated Operations with Multiple Naval Assets
- The USVs worked alongside the P2000-class patrol boat HMS BITER of the Coastal Forces Squadron
- A MERLIN helicopter participated in the operation
- The patrol vessel HMS TYNE (RIVER Batch 1 class) was involved
- The mine-countermeasures support vessel HMS STIRLING CASTLE acted as a “mothership”
The RATTLER USVs successfully intercepted and escorted TYNE and STIRLING CASTLE as if they were foreign warships passing nearby.
Advanced Sensing and Remote Control
The USVs transmitted live camera feeds and other sensor data back to PATRICK BLACKETT in real time. This demonstrated advanced remote monitoring and control capabilities beyond visual range.
Innovative Design and Procurement
The RATTLER was developed quickly, reportedly in just weeks, using an iterative acquisition approach. Unlike previous USVs that were adapted from crewed platforms or kept manual control cockpits, RATTLER is the Royal Navy’s first USV designed to be fully crewless from the start.
“The RATTLER, developed ‘in weeks’ and procured rapidly and iteratively, is the first USV that the Royal Navy procures which is fully crewless by design, from the start.”
Earlier USVs, such as BAE Systems’ Autonomous-PAC-24 RHIB and motor boats like ARCIMS and L3ASV used in mine hunting systems, were either manned originally or retained manual control features.
Author’s summary: The Royal Navy’s rapid deployment of fully crewless RATTLER USVs marks a significant step in remote maritime operations, showcasing successful integration with crewed vessels in complex sea trials.