The test, mandated by the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, was conducted by Precise Power Systems on behalf of Austal USA. The demonstration took place at Daimler Trucks North America Aftermarket Solutions in Tooele, Utah, between June 19 and September 5, with oversight from the Navy’s Program Executive Office Unmanned and Small Combatants (PEO USC) and the Unmanned Maritime Systems programme office (PMS 406).
Rear Adm. Kevin Smith, head of PEO USC, highlighted the strategic importance of the accomplishment. “Successfully demonstrating a power system that can sustain autonomous operations for 30 days without maintenance not only bolsters our readiness but also sets the stage for a truly integrated manned-unmanned Fleet, ensuring we remain at the forefront of maritime innovation,” he stated.
During the demonstration, no human intervention or maintenance was allowed, ensuring the engine’s ability to function autonomously for 30 days. The tested engine, the MTU 8V4000M24S, has now been approved for use aboard future USV platforms, paving the way for further advances in unmanned naval technology.
Prior to this final test, five other teams successfully completed similar 720-hour demonstrations. These included Bollinger and Carter Machinery, Fincantieri Marinette Marine, Gibbs & Cox, Huntington Ingalls Incorporated, and L3 Harris, each validating the reliability of different diesel engine systems. These efforts collectively represent significant progress toward achieving a reliable and robust propulsion foundation for future USV operations.
Capt. Matthew Lewis, programme manager of the Unmanned Maritime Systems programme office, praised the achievement, noting, “This milestone is a significant step forward in the continued development of integrated unmanned surface capabilities. The successful execution of these tests highlights our commitment to deliver cutting-edge solutions that can meet the evolving needs of our Fleet.”
