Rolls rejoices with USV development award

The development of Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) is a rapidly expanding part of naval marine technology, and Rolls-Royce has extensive capability in the handling systems that enable these advanced craft to be launched and recovered from the sea.

Rolls-Royce will develop automated systems to support the missions carried out by USVs which include coastal security patrols, environmental data collection and anti-submarine warfare. Rolls-Royce will design refuelling systems so unmanned craft can remain at sea for longer periods, and handling equipment that can deploy underwater sensors remotely from USVs.

Jay McFadyen, president of Rolls-Royce Naval Marine Inc said, “Future naval and patrol vessels will increasingly use unmanned vehicles to carry out a variety of missions. We are delighted that ACOA is providing significant support to develop these capabilities in our Canadian facilities, which are ideally situated close to many of our industrial, academic and governmental partners.

“This research programme will enable us to develop sophisticated systems with significant market potential, and firmly establish this region of Canada as a centre of excellence for these cutting edge technologies.”

Rolls-Royce intends to leverage its expertise as a leading supplier of sensor handling and stowage systems for naval vessels to develop similar technology for USVs that can be rapidly reconfigured for various missions. This will require smaller, lightweight more compact designs with a high level of automation.