The US Navy is shifting gears in its approach to acquiring medium unmanned surface vessels (MUSVs), moving away from a prototyping program to a streamlined procurement model. This new direction is part of the Navy’s broader “Golden Fleet” initiative, which emphasizes the rapid integration of autonomous maritime technology into its operational capabilities.
In a significant policy change, the Navy has canceled the Modular Attack Surface Craft (MASC) prototyping project, which was initially launched in July 2025. The MASC program aimed to develop unmanned surface vessels capable of transporting two 40-foot containers at speeds of 25 knots over distances of 2,500 nautical miles. However, the Navy has determined that existing industry solutions may adequately meet its operational needs, thereby eliminating the necessity for an extended prototyping phase.
Recognizing the rapidly evolving nature of modern warfare, the Department of the Navy is adapting its acquisition processes to ensure faster delivery of essential capabilities to its personnel. Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan stated the importance of leveraging American technological innovation, suggesting that a competitive market will enhance the Navy’s fleet modernization.
Rebecca Gassler, the Navy’s Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Robotic and Autonomous Systems, highlighted the benefits of skipping the traditional prototype stage. This shift is expected to save approximately a year in development time, allowing the Navy to conduct on-water testing and move directly into production. Gassler underscored the objective of establishing a sustainable marketplace not just for MUSVs, but for various types of unmanned systems that can support a growing range of military missions.
Funding for the MUSVs has been supported with an allocation of approximately $2.1 billion, part of a larger defense spending package enacted under former President Donald Trump in July 2025.
Under the new MUSV solicitation framework, the Navy intends to deploy a more versatile multi-mission platform that seamlessly integrates into its broader maritime strategy. Interested vendors are required to submit comprehensive proposals that include technical designs, business models, supply chain logistics, and detailed test plans ahead of on-water evaluations. These tests must be completed by the end of fiscal 2026.
To encourage participation, the Navy is offering financial incentives: companies that attend a post-award conference will receive $10,000, while successful completion of the Navy’s water tests will lead to a payout of $15 million.
The Navy anticipates that the first production vessel will be delivered in fiscal 2027, marking a significant step forward in its efforts to enhance unmanned operational capabilities.
