Australian Navy names autonomous systems unit

April 15, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

The Royal Australian Navy has formally named the Maritime Autonomous Systems Unit (MASU), marking a new step in the navy’s transition to a more integrated and highly advanced technology‑enabled future force.

Photo: Rodney Braithwaite/Australian Navy

MASU has been created through Project SEA 1200 to accelerate the development, integration and operational employment of maritime autonomous systems, optimised for persistent, long‑range intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance and strike missions.

The unit will operate multiple complementary capabilities, including the Ghost Shark extra-large autonomous underwater vehicle (XL-UUV), Bluebottle uncrewed surface vessel (USV) and the Speartooth large uncrewed underwater vehicle (LUUV).

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The unit comprises the Uncrewed Systems Control Centre and Deployable Vehicle Team, enabling the deployment and control of autonomous systems from any wharf location anywhere in the world.

Officer in Charge of MASU Commander Chris Forward said it was exciting to see Navy’s newest unit taking shape.

“Announcing MASU’s name gives the team a formal sense of identity as we work to rapidly introduce this capability into the Fleet,” Commander Forward said.

As part of the Royal Australian Navy’s contribution to AUKUS Pillar Two, MASU will act as the focal point for doctrine development, experimentation, employment, training, and test and evaluation of maritime uncrewed systems.

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“MASU will provide Navy with a long-range autonomous undersea capability through uncrewed systems like the Ghost Shark XL-UUV, Bluebottle USV and Speartooth LUUV to provide a range of asymmetric options to complement Defence’s existing crewed force,” Commander Submarines Commodore Dan Sutherland said.

By complementing crewed platforms, MASU will extend the Royal Australian Navy’s reach, persistence and resilience while reducing risk to sailors, it was concluded.