ADJ
KNDS and SeaOwl Technology Solutions announced the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement for the development and testing of an innovative unmanned surface vehicle (USV), designed to carry out offensive and defensive missions through the integration of a qualified warhead developed by KNDS.
This strategic project brings together two industrial leaders with complementary areas of expertise. KNDS contributes its longstanding, internationally recognised expertise in the design, safety and qualification of precision munitions while SeaOwl brings its technological excellence in maritime robotics, autonomous navigation systems and remote operation in the naval environment.
Designed around three key principles—performance, discretion and operational effectiveness—this new USV directly addresses the requirements of modern maritime theatres of operations. It reaches a maximum speed of 35 knots, enabling rapid interception and deployment, while its 30kg payload is optimised for offensive and defensive operations. Its combat range of up to 200km provides it with extended operational reach, while its radar and optical signatures have been optimised to maximise stealth.
The entire system is built around a fully cyber-secure architecture, complemented by a highly protected firing chain. It is therefore capable of navigating autonomously and seamlessly in contested areas, while the system guarantees strict and continuous human control. The final decision to engage and fire rests exclusively with the remote operator.
For KNDS, this agreement is part of its ongoing innovation drive, aimed at transferring its proven ballistic expertise to new robotic maritime platforms. By selecting the best partners to implement its innovations, KNDS is pursuing a long-term strategy in support of the needs of the armed forces.
For SeaOwl, this agreement with KNDS makes it possible to integrate ballistic capabilities, whose reliability and precision have been widely demonstrated, into its naval drone solutions. This strategic agreement provides a concrete solution to the current challenges faced by naval forces.
At the upcoming DronTech Asia exhibition in Bangkok this November 11-13, KNDS will present its latest in ammunition technologies, including short- and medium-range loitering munitions.–-shp/adj/dl (Pix:KNDS)
