An artist’s rendering of the Magnet Defense M48 USV navigating the open ocean. Image: Magnet Defense
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Florida’s Magnet Defense has rolled out a 48-meter (157-foot) unmanned surface vessel (USV) built for long-duration missions beyond typical warship limits.

The M48 combines machine learning, edge processing, and multi-sensor fusion to execute military naval missions with minimal human oversight.

It can reportedly reach speeds up to 68 knots (126 kilometers/78 miles per hour) and withstand maximum wind conditions.

A stable hull and payload system allow it to navigate rough seas for days while keeping all mission systems fully operational.

M48 USV
An artist’s rendering of the Magnet Defense M48 USV. Image: Magnet Defense

Backed by more than $50 million in investment, the M48 has already logged 390 days of sea trials and covered 32,000 nautical miles (59,000 kilometers/36,800 miles).

‘Built for Any Mission’

The USV is equipped with an AI tech that quickly identifies threats and pairs them with appropriate responses, while human operators retain control of critical decisions.

The vessel supports a wide range of missions, including intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, missile defense support, electronic warfare, logistics, and anti-submarine warfare.

Designed for modularity, the M48 allows rapid mission swaps, fast base turnarounds, and extended operations with minimal maintenance.

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