TSUNAMI Vessels: Textron Systems’ Answer to Modern Maritime Needs.

According to a PR published by Textron Systems on January 13, 2025, Textron Systems has announced the launch of its TSUNAMI family of autonomous maritime surface vessels.
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TSUNAMI autonomous vessels are uncrewed systems for multi-mission use and deployment in naval operations.. (Picture source: Textron Systems)

The TSUNAMI™ vessels have been developed in collaboration with Brunswick Corporation, integrating proven autonomy control systems with high-performance vessel platforms. These uncrewed surface vehicles are powered by gasoline to streamline logistics and maintenance, ensuring operational efficiency while maintaining affordability. The vessels are equipped with a payload capacity of 1,000 pounds, offering flexibility to perform a variety of missions, and feature hull designs currently in high-volume production. They are capable of operating in challenging maritime conditions up to Sea State 4, with operational ranges extending from 600 to over 1,000 nautical miles.

This family of vessels has been engineered for versatility, capable of supporting missions ranging from maritime surveillance to mine countermeasures and logistics support. Their modular design allows for easy adaptation to different operational needs, with the potential for scaling to larger vessel sizes and higher production rates.

Other unmanned vessels

Military autonomous vessels are a rapidly evolving component of modern naval strategies. Each nation approaches this innovation differently, focusing on strategic priorities and regional challenges.

The Royal Navy is developing and testing a range of autonomous maritime systems through its Maritime Autonomous Systems (MAS) program. Among its advancements is the Royal Navy Motor Boat (RNMB) Apollo, an uncrewed surface vessel developed by Thales. The Apollo is tailored for mine countermeasure operations and has undergone rigorous open-water assurance trials, demonstrating its capabilities in complex maritime environments.

In the context of ongoing conflict, Ukraine has utilized autonomous maritime technology innovatively. Ukrainian forces achieved a groundbreaking milestone by deploying a naval drone to successfully engage and destroy a Russian Mi-8 helicopter off the coast of Crimea. This marked the first recorded instance of a sea drone executing a sea-to-air strike.

Ukraine has also employed naval drones in attacks on Russian naval assets in the Black Sea, demonstrating the tactical value of autonomous systems in asymmetric warfare.

Turkey has developed the ULAQ, its first indigenous Armed Unmanned Surface Vessel (AUSV). The ULAQ is equipped with advanced weaponry and communication systems, enabling it to conduct a wide range of operations, including reconnaissance, anti-surface warfare, and asymmetric threats.