Maritime Tactical Systems (MARTAC) has introduced a groundbreaking fully autonomous launch and recovery system (ALARS), developed in partnership with Sealartec, specifically designed for unmanned surface vessels (USVs). This innovative system facilitates the seamless autonomous deployment and retrieval of MARTAC’s MANTAS T8 and T12 USVs from the company’s larger Devil Ray T38 USV.
The MANTAS T8 and T12 measure 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) and 3.6 meters (11.8 feet) in length, respectively, while the Devil Ray T38 spans an impressive 11 meters (36 feet). Bruce Hanson, CEO of MARTAC, remarked, “Launching this ALARS takes us a step closer to realizing the ability to deploy and autonomously operate USV fleets capable of performing complex missions over large areas.”
The ALARS is specially engineered to function effectively in maritime conditions up to sea state four, accommodating wave heights ranging from 1.25 to 2.5 meters (4.10-8.20 feet), which are categorized as moderate sea conditions. One of the system’s standout features is that it operates as an add-on solution that necessitates minimal modifications to the existing infrastructure.
Integrated directly with the main control system of the Devil Ray, the ALARS employs Sealartec’s cutting-edge local positioning system (LPS) to accurately determine the MANTAS T12’s position during recovery operations. This advanced technology ensures precise and efficient capture, along with automated loading and securing processes for the T12 onto the T38, allowing for rapid operational turnarounds.
Moreover, the ALARS is equipped with a modifiable cradle, enabling it to launch and recover other types of vessels as needed, further enhancing its versatility.
The introduction of autonomous launch and recovery systems is a critical development for executing maritime swarm missions, which rely on the coordinated operation of multiple USVs. Hanson emphasized the significant implications of this technology, stating, “Combining this ALARS capability with our Advanced AI Autonomy allows us to deploy USVs at scale to perform fully autonomous missions hundreds or even thousands of miles away from personnel.”
With the ALARS now available for deployment, MARTAC and Sealartec are actively expanding their capabilities in preparation for further advancements anticipated by 2025. The insights gained from this collaboration underline a significant leap forward in maritime operational technology, showcasing the potential of autonomous systems in modern naval operations.
