The US has created a 50-metre naval drone that can carry anti-aircraft missiles
The USX-1 Defiant, a new maritime drone developed under the NOMARS (No Manning Required Ship) programme, was spotted in Washington State. Its construction was completed in early March, after which the ship was launched.
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The project is being developed by Serco Inc. which received a $68.5 million contract in 2022 to develop, test and demonstrate the drone.
The Defiant does not have regular weapons, but the company has previously demonstrated a model with the Adaptable Deck Launching System (ADL) for ESSM anti-aircraft missiles. The system can carry 16 missiles with a range of up to 50 km and a speed of 4 M (4,900 km/h).
The Defiant model with the ADL launcher. Illustration: Naval News
The Defiant is also being considered for use as an unmanned container freighter.
The ship is to undergo tests in port and at sea, including structural stability, endurance in severe weather conditions and maintenance-free operation. The NOMARS programme envisages a "smooth degradation" concept, whereby the drone should maintain a minimum speed of 15 knots even after a year without repair.
USX-1 Defiant. Illustration: DARPA
The USX-1 Defiant is fully autonomous, including a refuelling system at sea. It is 54.8 metres long and has a displacement of 240 tonnes. After testing, it is expected to go to sea in 2025 to demonstrate its capabilities.
Source: TWZ