Same examples of USV's (Unmanned Surface Vehicle or Uncrewed Surface Vessel) being tested during NATO operational experimentation exercises.
NATO’s experimentation and integration of uncrewed vessels are part of a broader partnership between ACT and MARCOM, aimed at delivering capabilities to include autonomous systems and artificial intelligence, to enhance the Alliance’s situational awareness of sea lines of communication and the protection of critical undersea infrastructure.
Task Force X, with its focus on delivering innovative technology solutions, continues to play an integral role in delivering viable uncrewed vessels for experimentation and integration into NATO’s maritime forces.
Operationalized at unprecedented speed following recent cable disruptions, this initiative directly supports Allied Command Operations by merging Enhanced Vigilance Activities with cutting-edge autonomous systems
"Task Force X demonstrates NATO’s responsiveness and leverage of rapid innovation in support of the safeguarding of critical undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea," stated French Navy Admiral Pierre Vandier, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Transformation. "Operationalized at unprecedented speed following recent cable disruptions, this initiative directly supports Allied Command Operations by merging Enhanced Vigilance Activities with cutting-edge autonomous systems. By combining cost-effective mass solutions with exquisite capabilities, we not only detect unidentified vessels more effectively but also preserve high-value naval assets for priority missions. It enables nations to immediately field commercially available dual-use technologies alongside advanced AI-driven platforms, creating layered persistent surveillance at a level of cost that will demonstrate resolve and operational edge through federated capabilities. The model's success – already demonstrated in early Baltic operations – will offer nations in its next step to scale up the model to an even wider protective umbrella."
Task Force X leverages successful campaigns like the U.S. Navy’s Task Force 66, employing maritime uncrewed systems to provide persistent surveillance, detect and track potential threats, and enhance situational awareness. The initiative enables nations to contribute their own capabilities, while ensuring integration within the overall NATO framework.
The Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) will also be participating in the demonstrations with the deployment of the NATO Research Vessel Alliance, NATO’s only purpose-built scientific-research vessel – a uniquely equipped floating laboratory supporting the Alliance’s operational priorities at sea.
NATO Allied Command Transformation leads the strategic warfare development of NATO’s military structures, forces, capabilities and doctrines. It aims to innovate and maintain a warfighting edge to improve the military effectiveness of the Alliance.
Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM) is headquartered in Northwood, United Kingdom. MARCOM is the central command of all NATO maritime forces, and the MARCOM commander is the primary maritime advisor to the Alliance.
Story by Public Affairs Office at MARCOM