In a significant step toward the future of unmanned naval combat, Lockheed Martin Ventures has entered into a strategic partnership with HavocAI, a startup based in Rhode Island, to advance the development of medium unmanned surface vehicles (mUSVs) for the U.S. military. These autonomous vessels are being designed to operate without human crews, allowing them to carry out critical missions—including weapon delivery and maritime patrols—while minimizing risks to personnel.
The collaboration brings together Lockheed Martin’s extensive background in weapons integration with HavocAI’s expertise in autonomous navigation and AI software, aiming to create a new class of smart, self-directed naval platforms. These mUSVs will help bolster the Navy’s ability to project force in contested waters using lower-cost, crewless alternatives to traditional warships.
This initiative marks another leap in the ongoing transformation of maritime operations, as the U.S. military continues to explore AI-driven technologies that reduce the need for onboard sailors while expanding combat capabilities and mission flexibility.
