DIU Awards Three Prototype Contracts for Semi-Submersible ALPV Unmanned Vessel

The US Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) announced on 10 November the award of three prototype contracts for the Autonomous Low-Profile Vessel (ALPV), a semi-submersible unmanned ship, to support the US Marine Corps. The contracts went to Saronic Technologies, Sea Machines Robotics, and Rudder Industries. The aim is rapid prototyping and large-scale fielding for conventional resupply of forces in contested regions. Contract values were not disclosed.

On the same day, the US Ambassador to the Philippines announced the transfer of a T38 Devil Ray unmanned surface vessel, built by Maritime Tactical Systems (MARTAC), to the Philippine Marine Corps for surveillance and naval operations, amid pressure from China in the South China Sea, referred to in the Philippines as the West Philippine Sea. The number of vessels, cost, and operational schedule were not detailed.

Separately, the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) is working with domestic industry on designs for unmanned underwater vehicles intended for strait navigation and underwater mapping, part of a broader regional buildout of unmanned maritime systems.