The unmanned future!
More information: https://www.esc.guide/martac
MARTAC Devil Ray T38: In recent years, high speed unmanned surface vessels (USVs) have been subjected to ongoing tests of their suitability as surveillance and reconnaissance assets. Moreover, attention is now turning to the utility of armed patrol and interceptor USVs. Among the highest performers is the 11 metre long MARTAC Devil Ray T38. The USV is developed by Maritime Tactical Systems of Florida, which cites a burst speed capability ranging between 70 and 100 knots dependent on powertrain option and payload. The craft’s fastest documented run took place in July 2021, when the T38 transited the Florida Straits from Palm Beach to the Bahamas in only 53 minutes. The average cruise speed was clocked at 61 knots, with a fast segment recorded at 71.5 knots. The round trip transit was conducted under full autonomy, with an average tracking accuracy of +/- 1.3 degrees and a steady state cross track error of +/-3 m, all the while avoiding shipping traffic.
The Devil Ray’s payload capacity of 1,800 kg provides for a variety of sensor and weapon options. Operational scenarios include unarmed or armed surveillance and reconnaissance, electronic warfare and signals intelligence, interdiction of hostile or suspect vessels, and armed force protection missions for coastal, offshore, or floating assets. For the latter scenario, the T38 can be carried aboard larger ships and deployed via well deck or winch to escort ships through chokepoints or littoral waters. The armed T38 can operate singly or in swarms, autonomously or under remote control, to intercept fast attack craft and boat swarms well in advance of the protected ship or asset.
The US Navy has included the T38 in its extensive testing of unmanned systems as part of Task Force 59 in the Central Command area of responsibility and, subsequently, in other regions. The Devil Ray can be equipped with the Kongsberg Protector RWS and armed with machine guns or grenade weapons. As part of the TF 59 evaluation, the T38 also demonstrated the capacity to deploy with an aft-mounted Lethal Miniature Aerial Missile System, firing Switchblade 300 loitering missiles. This was credited with destroying multiple surface targets during an October 2023 test in the Persian Gulf.
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