Saildrone to Equip USVs with Lockheed Martin's JAGM Missiles
Saildrone will equip its unmanned surface vessels (USVs) with Lockheed Martin's Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles (JAGM) as part of a collaboration to enhance naval capabilities. The partnership, which includes a $50 million investment from Lockheed Martin, aims to integrate artificial intelligence and reflects a growing trend towards manned-unmanned hybrid fleets in global navies. A proof-of-concept integration and live-fire demonstration are planned for next summer, amid increasing interest in armed naval drones influenced by recent conflicts.
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Saildrone announced it will equip its unmanned surface vessels (USVs) with Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles (JAGM) from Lockheed Martin. The 20-meter Saildrone Surveyor will feature a JAGM launcher as part of a collaboration aimed at enhancing naval capabilities.
Lockheed Martin is investing $50 million in Saildrone, which will include artificial intelligence integration. The partnership reflects a trend among global navies towards manned-unmanned hybrid fleets.
The US Navy aims to build 500 vessels, including 150 large USVs. The recent reconciliation bill included over $3 billion for surface vessel procurement. Saildrone plans proof-of-concept integrations and a live-fire demonstration next summer.
The shift towards armed naval drones has been influenced by the Ukraine war, although challenges remain in different conflict zones. Saildrone platforms have accumulated over 10,000 days at sea and covered over 380,000 nautical miles.
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