US Navy Details Expanding Operational Role for Medium Unmanned Surface Vessels

The U.S. Navy is working to integrate medium unmanned surface vessels (MUSVs) into regular fleet operations, according to recent congressional testimony by senior service officials.

Admiral James Kilby, the vice chief of naval operations, outlined plans during an October 8 hearing before the National Commission on the Future of the Navy regarding how uncrewed boats could be employed as persistently forward-stationed assets.

Recent Deployment and Fleet Integration

• First Operational Deployment: An MUSV recently deployed to the Pacific alongside the USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group, marking the platform's first operational deployment.
• Certification Plans: Adm. Kilby stated that unmanned capabilities could eventually become part of fleet certification exercises, requiring units to demonstrate proficiency with systems picked up on station.
• Force Multiplier: Navy Secretary Hung Cao confirmed the deployment, describing the drone boats as a "force multiplier" that increases available naval firepower.

Program Status and Future Plans

The Navy currently operates four MUSVs that were originally built as test beds and later transferred to the service. Last month, the Navy selected three companies to build a total of 30 vessels, with the first formal deliveries expected by the end of fiscal year 2027.

To support these new capabilities, the Navy established the Robotic and Autonomous Systems Warfighting Development Center (RASWDC) at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia Beach. Officials noted the center is intended to help formulate tailored force packages and improve integration across autonomous systems.

While acknowledging progress in training, Adm. Kilby indicated that the service still has work to do regarding force development, employment concepts, and establishing a sustainable plan to bring unmanned forces to bear when needed.

Observers can verify these developments through official U.S. Navy announcements, congressional hearing transcripts, and public statements issued by defense department officials.