Britain shows off MARS surface drone that can carry attack UAVs
The British company SubSea Craft has unveiled a new surface unmanned platform MARS. The drone has already been tested and is capable of conducting reconnaissance and carrying a combat payload, including attack UAVs.
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MARS is the second platform of the company after the VICTA vessel that combines the capabilities of a speedboat and a submarine.
"At SubSea Craft, we are proud to represent the UK on the international stage in creating scalable technologies. These can be built and maintained in the country to improve both our domestic maritime capabilities and the flexibility of our allies," SubSea Craft said.
In addition, the surface drone can conduct reconnaissance missions and carry a combat payload.
Like VICTA, the MARS drone uses a digital control system with an open architecture. Company CEO Penny Mordonte said MARS has been a revolutionary force for the modern battlespace, and its successful trials after a remarkable turnaround from the initial concept are testament to SubSea Craft's forward-thinking approach.
The Victa submarine attack boat. Illustration: SubSea Craft
Although maritime drones have long been used by the world's armies, interest in them is only growing due to their relative cheapness and safety in operation. For example, the French Navy recently tested a combat surface drone by engaging a decommissioned ship.
Source: UK Defence Journal
