Posted on 07/16/2026 7:47:12 AM PDT by ransomnote
John Ʌ Konrad VBREAKING: The era of the autonomous dinghy fleet is over. Until now, most autonomous naval drones have been tiny with minuscule payload, limited range, limited impact. The Marauder changes that. It has the size to carry meaningful cargo, weapons, and fuel. This is a major step toward building true ship-sized USVs the US Navy needs.
Built for standard shipping containers, it can carry eight 20' shipping containers or four 40' containers, or two 40' and four 20'. That's a lot of missiles. Four 20' containers = 16 NSM anti-ship missiles, and that's just half the deck capacity. TLAM, PRSM, Patriot, SM-6 and a host of other missiles are also being "containerized".
The Marauder doesn't even need to see the targets it engages, as an aircraft, shore command, DDG or CVN will be providing detection/targeting and guidance.
The ship is "autonomous". That doesn't exclude carrying personnel. Optionally manned is more accurate than unmanned. In addition to a few sailors to maintain systems, it could no doubt also carry special operation teams. There will also be cases where a Harbor Pilot and bridge crew are required.
My guess is it’s equipped for and capable of man-piloted operations for short duration stretches when desired or necessary. Human amenities would be as few as necessary for hours long usage, not many days or longer. jmo
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