Unmanned Surface Vehicles : An Operational Commander's Tool for Maritime Security

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Unmanned Surface Vehicles : An Operational Commander's Tool for Maritime Security

M. M. Graham

Technological advancements have changed the landscape of warfare, which in turn has changed how the operational commander develops plans to employ forces to achieve the objectives. Unmanned aerial systems (UAVs) have proven over the years that their effective employment greatly enhances the commander's situational awareness and provides a force multiplier, especially in high risk operations. It may also be said that UAVs have become an essential asset in the operating area. Unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) have been an element of the operating forces since as early as World War II, but are now emerging with increased capabilities into the mainstream of operational assets. Security in the maritime domain, whether it be protecting port facilities or maintaining the security of shipping lanes through international straits, is essential to both the global economy and military freedom of action. Piracy, transnational terrorism, fast attack craft, mines, and submarines all pose significant threats to both civilian merchants and military vessels. This paper addresses the unmanned surface vehicles that are currently in service or in development and their role to support the operational commander in countering those threats and achieve the desired objectives. With extremely capable optical, acoustic, and even weapons packages, USVs must be considered in the operational commander's planning and decision processes for maritime security as well as across a broad spectrum of military operations.