A collaboration between American and British companies could be setting the stage for the US Navy’s next-gen fleet of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs).
California’s Anduril has announced a partnership with maritime tech firm Kraken Technology Group to develop two new platforms, the K5 Kraken and K7 Sabre.
The vessels are being designed as a family of small, long-range, high-performance USVs capable of sustaining extended operations at sea.
While technical specifications remain limited, both concepts are expected to carry at least 1,000 pounds (454 kilograms) of mission payload and support rapid, scalable production.
Anduril will integrate its Lattice AI software into the platforms, while Kraken will develop a new hull design tailored to multiple operator and mission requirements.
Manufacturing will be carried out in the US.
“This partnership reflects Kraken’s commitment to supporting global maritime challenges with hardened operational capabilities at a critical point in history,” said Kraken Founder and Chief Executive Officer Mal Crease.
“Under this agreement, Kraken will deliver low-cost, scalable and modular systems that are both reliable and effective.”
Creating the Future Fleet
The effort aligns with the US Navy’s vision of a hybrid fleet concept, in which crewed vessels operate alongside smaller autonomous systems to expand reach and operational flexibility.
It also draws on Kraken’s experience in building combat-ready platforms, following its work on small USVs for European and allied customers under the UK’s Project Beehive program.
“Kraken is known for their proven, battle-tested platforms,” said Anduril General Manager of Surface Dominance Cory Emmons.
“This partnership expands Anduril’s family of autonomous surface offerings with small boats carrying mission payloads, adding a complementary capability to larger [autonomous surface vessels] and the legacy fleet.”
