Vestdavit introduces AutoHook autonomous launch and recovery system for USV

April 17, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Vestdavit has introduced its new AutoHook system, a fully autonomous launch and recovery system designed to support unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and other maritime assets.

The system was unveiled as a first-of-its-kind autonomous vessel recovery interface. Vestdavit, a Fairbanks Morse Defense’s (FMD) Norway-based subsidiary, developed the system to support naval operations that increasingly rely on unmanned platforms.

According to FMD, AutoHook addresses a longstanding operational gap in maritime recovery systems. While existing autonomous solutions are typically limited to Sea State 2 conditions, the new system has achieved operational acceptance at Sea State 4, significantly expanding the envelope for safe and reliable launch and recovery operations in rougher seas.

Designed with safety as a primary focus, AutoHook eliminates the need for manual handling and physical connections between vessels and recovery systems. This reduces the risk of injury to crew members during complex and often hazardous recovery procedures.

“The global shift toward distributed maritime operations depends on unmanned systems that perform in real-world conditions and integrate seamlessly across allied fleets. AutoHook not only supports fleet modernization, it breaks the Sea State 2 ceiling that has long constrained manual launch and recovery,” said Rolf Andreas Wigand, Vestdavit CEO.

“By delivering advanced launch and recovery solutions purpose-built for the operational demands of the U.S. fleet, we are helping ensure American forces, and those of our allies, have the reliable, scalable capability they need to operate effectively today and for decades to come.”

AutoHook has been developed with interoperability in mind, aligning with NATO standards and enabling deployment across a wide range of vessels without the need for significant modifications. Unlike traditional systems that may require additional cradles, winches or davit adjustments, the AutoHook unit features a clamp-on design that allows for straightforward installation.

The system integrates thrusters, onboard power, control systems and an advanced vision suite into a single compact unit. Using artificial intelligence, the vision system is capable of detecting and tracking the precise position of a target vessel in real time, allowing for stable and autonomous recovery even in dynamic sea conditions.

The technology is expected to play a key role in supporting the expanding fleets of unmanned vessels being adopted by navies worldwide.

Wigand added that the company sees AutoHook as a solution to one of the most persistent challenges in maritime operations, achieving a safe, fully automated connection between a ship and a smaller craft in high-energy sea states.