LORIENT, France — Naval Group subsidiary Sirehna has launched an unmanned surface vessel named Seaquest S, measuring just under 10 meters in length, optimized for surveillance, electronic-warfare, strike, and anti-submarine missions. The vessel incorporates lessons learned from Ukraine’s deployment of robotic boats against Russian targets in the Black Sea, with an endurance of 24 hours.
Lessons learned from Ukraine’s deployment include the need for rapid upgrades due to evolving defenses. Ukrainian forces have used a multitude of different unmanned systems, with recent reports showing effectiveness. SeaQuest is currently the only small USV designed to embark onboard frigates and warships, with the potential for swarming capabilities in the future.
Naval Group emphasizes the need for constant evolution in unmanned systems to stay ahead of defenses. Ukrainian officials predict that these robotic maritime platforms could dominate conventional combat vessels in closed or semi-closed water bodies. SeaQuest, currently undergoing sea trials in France, represents a step towards this future.
