Navy Fast-Tracks Semi-Autonomous CounterMine Drones

by SOFREP

The US Navy recently awarded Textron Systems a contract worth up to $106 million to produce and support Mine Sweeping Payload Delivery Systems (PDS). This move signifies a significant leap forward in semi-autonomous mine countermeasure operations, underlining the Navy’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for enhanced maritime security.

Textron Systems, a subsidiary of Textron Inc., will deliver production units, spare parts, and engineering services for its Mine Countermeasure Mission Package (MCMMP). This contract expands the operational capabilities of the Common Unmanned Surface Vehicle (CUSV®) platform, enabling more efficient, safer, and reliable mine-clearing missions.

What Is the Mine Sweeping Payload Delivery System?

The Mine Sweeping Payload Delivery System (PDS) is part of the broader MCMMP initiative, designed to address the ever-present threat of naval mines.

Mines—both magnetic and acoustic—pose significant risks to naval vessels, disrupting shipping lanes and endangering maritime security.

Textron’s solution integrates advanced semi-autonomous systems to counter these threats, ensuring the safety of sailors while enhancing operational efficiency.

The PDS uses a towed acoustic generator and a magnetic cable to detect and neutralize three types of mines: magnetic, acoustic, and magnetic-acoustic combinations.

These advanced payloads are deployed via the CUSV, which offers a flexible platform for unmanned mine-clearing operations. This semi-autonomous approach not only reduces the risks to human life but also increases the speed and accuracy of mine detection.