In continuation of our previous discussion on unmanned marine vehicles, this article shifts its focus to the intricate realm of Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUMT). Building upon the groundwork laid in our earlier submission, we delve into the collaborative synergy between human-operated vessels and their unmanned counterparts. MUMT stands as a pinnacle in naval innovation, exemplifying the seamless integration of human expertise with cutting-edge autonomous technologies. Join us on this exploration as we navigate the dynamics, challenges, and transformative potential that Manned-Unmanned Teaming brings to the forefront of modern naval practices.
The surge in unmanned systems within the marine environment has sparked a parallel surge in studies exploring the interoperability of unmanned submerged and surface vehicles in conjunction with manned platforms.
While acknowledging certain developments during WWII that introduced autonomy capabilities with torpedoes, our focus here shifts to the pioneering stages where complex algorithms for predefined missions and duties were first implemented.
The roots of this transformative application trace back to the introduction of towed sonar systems, reaching a stage of autonomy to maintain fixed depths. Initially centered on easy-to-recover, tethered "drones" with limited autonomy, these early systems laid the groundwork for further advancements.
Subsequently, unmanned systems equipped with remotely controlled or automated functions began to play pivotal roles in Mine Countermeasure Warfare (MCMW) duties. These included tasks such as detecting and detonating mines, thereby alleviating manned platforms from undertaking high-risk operations.
In the subsequent chapters of innovation, Israel has notably demonstrated an unmanned boat designed specifically for Anti-Submarine Warfare duties. This development marks a significant stride in the evolution of unmanned systems, showcasing their expanding role and capabilities within complex naval operations.
Enhanced Capability Integration:
Examining a handful of notable instances from international applications:
Also known as a Mine-Countermeasure Warfare (Frigate), the Mogami class is equipped with a stern ramp and semi-wet deck designed to accommodate a medium-sized Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV). This USV is capable of carrying essential sensor and Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) systems, enabling the detection and elimination of mines in a secure manner. This is a materialized project where several Mogami Class frigates are launched / delivered and the role of USV can be suited to other warfare types (such as ELINT, ASW).
F142 / C92 side bays
Dearsan Shipyards presented innovative concepts featuring their Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) carried by both the C92 Corvette and F142 Frigate. Notably, the F142 Frigate subtly hinted at such utilization with stern-deck doors. The Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUMT) concept of the C92 showcased USVs with capabilities in Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR). These, however are only in concepts phase.
Belgian MCMW with side bays.
Belgian MCMW vessel project incorporates two MCMW oriented USV and VTOL UAVs to team up with the mothership for detection and elimination of the sea mines. This ship, however is highly focusing on MCMW duties and carries medium sized USVs. Project is materialized and on-going.
AH140/ Type 31 extended side bays with multi deck access
Babcock's AH140 frigate design was made with two side-bays capable of reaching multiple decks, one-of-a-kind application where USVs can be refitted with different sensors or rearmed, maintained and replenished. These hangars are equipped with winches to deploy and retrieve multi-purpose USVs. The platform readily have customers (Such as Poland and Indonesia), moreover function of this bay is left to the customer, where it can be used as a RHIB bay by default.
Various naval frigate designs around the world showcase the incorporation of extended side bays, demonstrating a commitment to flexibility and enhanced capabilities. Some notable concepts include:
Singaporean Frigate Design:
The surge in unmanned systems within the marine environment has sparked a parallel surge in studies exploring the interoperability of unmanned submerged and surface vehicles in conjunction with manned platforms.
While acknowledging certain developments during WWII that introduced autonomy capabilities with torpedoes, our focus here shifts to the pioneering stages where complex algorithms for predefined missions and duties were first implemented.
The roots of this transformative application trace back to the introduction of towed sonar systems, reaching a stage of autonomy to maintain fixed depths. Initially centered on easy-to-recover, tethered "drones" with limited autonomy, these early systems laid the groundwork for further advancements.
Subsequently, unmanned systems equipped with remotely controlled or automated functions began to play pivotal roles in Mine Countermeasure Warfare (MCMW) duties. These included tasks such as detecting and detonating mines, thereby alleviating manned platforms from undertaking high-risk operations.
In the subsequent chapters of innovation, Israel has notably demonstrated an unmanned boat designed specifically for Anti-Submarine Warfare duties. This development marks a significant stride in the evolution of unmanned systems, showcasing their expanding role and capabilities within complex naval operations.
Enhanced Capability Integration:
- Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUMT) facilitates seamless integration of human-operated vessels and unmanned systems.
- It leverages the strengths of both, combining human decision-making with the efficiency and autonomy of unmanned technologies.
- The collaboration between manned and unmanned platforms enhances overall operational efficiency.
- Unmanned systems can perform routine, repetitive, or hazardous tasks, allowing manned platforms to focus on complex decision-making and strategic tasks.
- Unmanned systems can take on high-risk tasks, reducing the exposure of human-operated vessels to potential dangers.
- This contributes to enhanced safety and risk mitigation during naval operations.
- Unmanned systems, with their extended endurance capabilities, can complement manned platforms for prolonged missions.
- This synergy allows for extended surveillance, reconnaissance, and strategic presence without imposing additional physical and cognitive burdens on the human crew.
- MUMT facilitates the creation of distributed sensor networks, enhancing situational awareness.
- This networked approach allows for comprehensive coverage and quicker response times to emerging threats.
- The teaming of manned and unmanned systems provides a flexible and adaptable naval force.
- It allows for rapid response to dynamic situations, changing mission requirements, and unexpected challenges.
- Unmanned systems contribute to cost-efficiency by reducing the need for large crews and optimizing resource utilization.
- This enables naval forces to achieve strategic objectives while managing operational costs effectively.
- Advancements in MUMT have particular significance in Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW).
- Unmanned systems can be deployed for ASW duties, enhancing detection capabilities and response times in underwater scenarios.
- MUMT acts as a force multiplier by extending the strategic presence of naval forces.
- The combined capabilities of manned and unmanned systems enhance the overall effectiveness of naval operations.
Examining a handful of notable instances from international applications:
Also known as a Mine-Countermeasure Warfare (Frigate), the Mogami class is equipped with a stern ramp and semi-wet deck designed to accommodate a medium-sized Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV). This USV is capable of carrying essential sensor and Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) systems, enabling the detection and elimination of mines in a secure manner. This is a materialized project where several Mogami Class frigates are launched / delivered and the role of USV can be suited to other warfare types (such as ELINT, ASW).
F142 / C92 side bays
Dearsan Shipyards presented innovative concepts featuring their Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) carried by both the C92 Corvette and F142 Frigate. Notably, the F142 Frigate subtly hinted at such utilization with stern-deck doors. The Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUMT) concept of the C92 showcased USVs with capabilities in Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR). These, however are only in concepts phase.
Belgian MCMW with side bays.
Belgian MCMW vessel project incorporates two MCMW oriented USV and VTOL UAVs to team up with the mothership for detection and elimination of the sea mines. This ship, however is highly focusing on MCMW duties and carries medium sized USVs. Project is materialized and on-going.
AH140/ Type 31 extended side bays with multi deck access
Babcock's AH140 frigate design was made with two side-bays capable of reaching multiple decks, one-of-a-kind application where USVs can be refitted with different sensors or rearmed, maintained and replenished. These hangars are equipped with winches to deploy and retrieve multi-purpose USVs. The platform readily have customers (Such as Poland and Indonesia), moreover function of this bay is left to the customer, where it can be used as a RHIB bay by default.
Various naval frigate designs around the world showcase the incorporation of extended side bays, demonstrating a commitment to flexibility and enhanced capabilities. Some notable concepts include:
Singaporean Frigate Design:
- Features extended side bays, emphasizing adaptability and versatility in naval operations.
- Incorporates extended side bays, showcasing STM's commitment to continuation of Istanbul Class frigates and multifunctional naval platforms.
- Highlights extended side bays, indicating a focus on providing expanded operational options and deployment capabilities.
- Represents a collaborative effort among European Union member states to develop and enhance defense capabilities. The inclusion of extended side bays in relevant frigate designs aligns with the shared vision for advanced naval capabilities.
- In the context of the new design based on the Milgem Corvette project, the emphasis is on a stern bay similar to that of the Mogami class. This distinctive feature allows for the efficient deployment and retrieval of multi-purpose medium-sized Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs).
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