Autonomous Unmanned Surface Vehicle Fueling at Sea

The Department of Defense, specifically the Navy, is seeking innovative solutions for the development of an Autonomous Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) fueling system that can operate autonomously at sea. The objective is to create a system that enables Large Unmanned Surface Vehicles (LUSVs) to conduct astern refueling operations from an auxiliary ship or platform while underway, eliminating the need for personnel on the receiving vessel. This initiative is crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and safety during naval operations, as it aims to automate a process that currently requires manual intervention, thereby reducing risks associated with personnel involvement in potentially hazardous environments. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on January 8, 2025, with a closing date of February 5, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link.