The Navy’s Task Force 59, a team specializing in unmanned technology and artificial intelligence, conducted an exercise called Digital Talon.
On October 23, they used a technique called “manned-unmanned teaming” to locate and attack simulated enemy forces.They then launched live munitions from an unmanned vessel to destroy a targetboat, according to the US Naval Forces Central Command.
According to the news release, the system “successfully scored direct hits each time.” The firing, which was in international waters surrounding the Arabian Peninsula, was overseen by a human operator ashore, who “made the engagement decisions.”
The Navy shared a video that displayed an unmanned boat with two motors speeding through the waves. When the target was identified, a missile was launched from a “Lethal Miniature Aerial Missile System” at the rear of the unmanned boat. The video also captured the moment when the missile successfully hit the target.
“We are focused on the operational application of new, cutting-edge unmanned systems and artificial intelligence technologies,” said Vice Adm. Brad Cooper in the news release.
“During Digital Talon, we took a significant step forward and advanced our capability to the ‘next level’ beyond just maritime domain awareness, which has been a traditional focus with Task Force 59. We have proven these unmanned platforms can enhance fleet lethality. In doing so, we are strengthening regional maritime security and enhancing deterrence against malign activity.”
This marks the second successful demonstration of these capabilities by the Navy in as many months, Cooper said.
In September, several unmanned aquatic and aerial vehicles were able to track Iranian Navy and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy ships and small boats over the course of several days while they carried out routine patrols in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
Cooper said “12 different unmanned platforms” were integrated with manned ships for this exercise.