UMEX 2024: US Central Command showcases Mast 13 USV.

At the UMEX 2024 exhibition, the United States Central Command introduced the MAST-13 Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV), showcasing its technical specifications and capabilities. The MAST-13 is designed for a range of maritime operations, including surveillance and mine countermeasure missions.
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L3 Harris MAST-13 Unmanned Surface Vessel. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

It is a 13-meter fast interceptor vessel, designed primarily for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. This vessel is notable for its high speed and endurance, having a maximum speed of over 40 knots and an operational endurance of over 36 hours.

The MAST-13 is equipped with twin diesel engines and uses waterjet propulsion, which contributes to its high maneuverability and speed. For surveillance and data gathering, the vessel is outfitted with a suite of integrated sensors. This includes an electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) pan-tilt-zoom camera, radar, and an automated indication system (AIS).

These features enable the MAST-13 to gather and share real-time data with multiple control locations, making it a valuable asset for maritime operations. The MAST-13 USV's ability to navigate crucial maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, coupled with its advanced sensor package and high-speed capabilities, demonstrates its effectiveness in surveillance and reconnaissance missions. This highlights the role of unmanned technologies in enhancing naval operational capabilities in strategic and potentially contentious maritime areas​​​​.