Metal Shark debuts new unmanned surface vessel

Louisiana-based boat builder Metal Shark is set to debut its latest unmanned surface vessel, the new high speed maneuverable unmanned surface vessel (HSMUSV).

As informed, the vessel is  is a 21-foot military craft specifically configured for unmanned, human-in-the-loop operation. The HSMUSV has been designed to offer the US Armed Forces and allies a multi-payload USV solution that can be rapidly produced and quickly fielded to meet emergent needs.

The HSMUSV may be equipped with a range of diesel and gasoline propulsion systems. As equipped, the vessel boasts a range of over 500 nautical miles while cruising at 25 knots, with a top speed approaching 40 knots. At lower speeds a loitering time of approximately ten days is achievable.

According to Metal Shark, HSMUSV features forward and aft payload bays that each can support a wide range of payloads including tethered or untethered UAV systems, various organically explosive charges, or other munitions or surveillance systems, which are hosted and operated via the vessel’s native software system.

Metal Shark’s SharkTech Unmanned Systems division has developed the hardware and software, so the unit will come  factory-equipped with proprietary systems.

HSMUSV’s onboard SharkTech system enables unmanned human-in-the-loop operation and supports interface with multiple other COLREGS, ATR, and AI software packages.

Furthermore, the system transmits and displays real-time vessel telemetry, contacts, mission status, and video while transmitting operator commands over line-of-sight (HF radio) and beyond-line-of-sight (Starlink satellite) links to the vessel. It also sends this data over a secure VPN tunnel for integration into HQ operations. Operators can control the HSMUSV via desktop systems in operations centers or through a portable helm control station.

“Providing an end-to-end hardware and software solution allows the interface with other autonomy packages to be limited to computer code loading and configuration,” explained Metal Shark CEO Chris Allard.

“However, HSMUSV is a brand-agnostic platform and will readily support most available autonomy systems in place of our own SharkTech system.”

Metal Shark specializes in the design and construction of welded aluminum vessels from 16’ to over 300’ for military, law enforcement, and commercial operators. Earlier on, the US sent 23 welded-aluminum military vessels built by Metal Shark to Ukraine.