1

Requirements for Operating USVs and UUVs from Future Combatants & Patrol

Vessels

Stern and/or over-the side handling system that does not require a boat or diver in the water

Method of moving craft and containerized mission packages around on deck or within a mission bay

For USVs, an offboard refuelling system would be desirable

Technology solutions for launch, recovery, stowage and refuelling can be leveraged from the offshore oil and gas

industry

2

Launch and Recovery Options Stern ramp/slipway – proven for rough weather; not designed for semi-submersibles & UUVs, impact on stability and buoyancy Portable stern ramp – used for handling UUVs from low freeboard vessels; limited to single UUV Towed surface cradle – designed for USVs and UUVs. Handling device required for cradle and vehicle. Towed docking device – developed for surface (USV) and underwater (UUV). Stern mounted crane/boom – crane may not be feasible, but deckhead mounted telescoping boom may be viable for higher

freeboard vessels. Side mounted davit – proven for manned craft, & can be adapted for unmanned systems, but limited to single vehicle Side mounted crane – can handle and stow multiple vehicles but not feasible to install on many combatant vessels Deckhead mounted crane/davit – keeps deck clear, and can handle multiple vehicles

3

Handling UUVs from Naval & Patrol Vessels Readily achievable from minehunters (low

freeboard, maneuverable at low speeds) May be problematic from larger naval vessels

where there is little overlap between minimum speed of vessel and maximum speed of UUV, and maneuverability is limited

Launch and recovery of small and medium sized UUVs from USVs may offer best solution