L3Harris Technologies, the SAMI-L3Harris joint venture, and Zamil Shipyards have signed an agreement to develop one of Saudi Arabia’s first domestically produced unmanned surface vessels (USVs).
The partnership seeks to design new modular unmanned surface vessel variants capable of supporting various surveillance and defense roles.
It also aims to enhance local maritime engineering by integrating autonomous systems into current naval platforms.
“We are positioned to transform maritime surveillance and mission execution by leveraging our joint venture and local industrial capabilities,” said Dave Johnson, VP International at L3Harris, and Vice Chairman at SAMI-L3Harris.
Under the agreement, Saudi firm Zamil Shipyards will lead the design and production of unmanned platforms, while SAMI-L3Harris will integrate autonomous navigation systems, sensors, and mission equipment.
“We believe that USVs could be a game-changer in helping nations secure their borders, both above and below water, against the increasing nature of asymmetric threats,” said Alastair Bisset, General Manager of Zamil Shipyards.
The collaboration will also involve a series of on-water trials set to take place over the course of the year.
These demonstrations are intended to assess the technical development and operational capabilities of the unmanned systems produced through the partnership.
Focus on Localization
Saudi Arabia is pushing to expand domestic defense manufacturing under Vision 2030, which aims to localize half of its military spending.
As part of this plan, Riyadh’s General Authority for Military Industries promotes collaboration between Saudi and foreign defense firms.
The initiative encourages international companies to open local branches to increase in-country production and reduce dependence on foreign-made equipment.
