Birdon has begun construction of the first tranche of its medium unmanned surface vessel (MUSV) at C&C Marine & Repair’s shipyard.
As informed, the build combines C&C Marine’s vessel production capabilities, Mythos AI’s autonomy technology, and Birdon’s prime contracting, design authority, and systems integration capabilities.
“Starting the build moves this effort from planning into execution. It demonstrates our certainty of delivery, founded on in-place – not promised – capacity,” said Birdon President Kevin Mooney.
“Birdon, C&C Marine, and Mythos are combining industry-leading operationally deployed autonomy with a globally proven, robust vessel. We are pairing production-ready engineering with a trusted serial manufacturer. Together, we will deliver mission-focused solutions for U.S. and allied military customers.”
In March this year, Birdon signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Mythos AI to collaborate on the development of MUSVs. Under the collaboration, Birdon America provided maritime platform, integration, and program execution capabilities, while Mythos AI provided autonomy technologies, including navigation, perception, command and control, and mission software for integration into unmanned surface vessels.
The collaboration focused on prototype development, demonstration activities, technical integration, production planning, and future efforts aligned with relevant US Navy and broader defense opportunities.
Earlier on, Birdon and C&C Marine worked on the Ancillary Surface Craft (ASC) program.
“Our teams demonstrated on the ASC program that we can deliver vessels on time and on budget,” said Tony Cibilich, C&C Marine President & Owner.
“We are proud to continue that partnership on this first block of MUSVs, with a planned production pace of one vessel every two months.”