Small and Medium Unmanned Undersea Vehicles

The Small/Medium Unmanned Undersea Vehicles program is focused on advancing unmanned undersea vehicles (UUVs) for the Navy. These vehicles are designed for various missions, including intelligence preparation, battlespace awareness, and mine warfare. The program supports initiatives like the Lionfish UUV system, which is portable and mission-configurable for different Navy units. It also emphasizes enhancing cybersecurity and integrating technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve sensor performance and autonomy.

The Tetra project within this program aims to develop a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) that can be launched and recovered from submarine torpedo tubes. Tetra supports subsea seabed warfare by providing real-time operational data and enabling man-in-the-loop intervention. The project involves collaboration with Unmanned Undersea Vehicle Squadron One (UUVRON ONE) to inform operational concepts and fielding decisions, including payload development for emerging operational needs.

Another key component is the Medusa initiative, which focuses on creating a medium-class UUV with offensive mining capabilities. Designed for torpedo tube launch from submarines, Medusa features long-range capabilities and high payload placement accuracy. The project includes competitive prototyping contracts to develop tactical prototype systems, with ongoing efforts in submarine integration and system safety engineering.

Razorback is a medium-class UUV developed for persistent ocean sensing and data collection to support Navy intelligence missions. It includes two variants: Razorback MK19 and Razorback Torpedo Tube Launch & Recovery (TTL&R). The program emphasizes safety through the development of the Shock and Fire Enclosure Capsule (SAFECAP), aiding in safe launch and recovery operations. Razorback's development involves collaboration with industry partners to enhance submarine integration capabilities.