“44 Tons at 57 Miles Per Hour”: US Unveils First Autonomous Warship Carrying Tomahawk Missiles Without Any Crew

The unveiling of the AIRCAT Bengal MC by the United States marks a significant milestone in naval technology, blending speed, autonomy, and advanced weaponry. Developed in collaboration with Australian and American experts, this autonomous warship is designed to redefine maritime warfare. With its ability to operate without a crew, carry substantial payloads, and travel long distances without refueling, the AIRCAT Bengal MC is poised to shape the future of naval engagements. The vessel’s introduction not only highlights advancements in military technology but also raises questions about the evolving nature of naval warfare and the strategic balance of power on the high seas.

Pushing the Boundaries of Speed and Payload Capacity

The AIRCAT Bengal MC sets a new standard for speed and payload in autonomous maritime vessels. With a remarkable capacity to carry a 44-ton payload, it is the first autonomous warship capable of transporting two full-size 40-foot ISO footprint modules. This capability offers unprecedented strategic advantages, allowing the vessel to support a wide range of military operations. Despite its substantial size, the warship can achieve speeds exceeding 57 mph, depending on its payload. It also boasts a cruising range of 1,150 miles without stopping for refueling, significantly enhancing its operational flexibility.

The vessel’s design allows for both crewed and autonomous operations, providing a level of adaptability that traditional warships cannot match. This flexibility is seen as a strategic advantage, enabling naval forces to deploy the vessel in varied scenarios without the limitations of crewed ships. As a result, the AIRCAT Bengal MC presents an opportunity to reduce reliance on larger, more expensive ships while maintaining—or even enhancing—firepower and maneuverability. This shift could represent a paradigm change in how naval forces approach maritime engagements.

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Armed for Modern Maritime Conflicts

The offensive capabilities of the AIRCAT Bengal MC are formidable, equipped to launch both Tomahawk cruise missiles and Naval Strike Missiles (NSM). These advanced weapons systems provide significant firepower, positioning the vessel as a powerful tool in modern naval conflicts. Bo Jardine, CEO of Eureka Naval Craft, emphasizes the need for speed and agility, criticizing traditional vessels as outdated and costly. The AIRCAT Bengal MC, with its blend of speed and firepower, offers a compelling alternative that enhances lethality and operational speed.

This combination of capabilities makes the AIRCAT Bengal MC an attractive option for navies seeking to maintain a technological edge in an increasingly competitive maritime environment. Its design prioritizes rapid response and adaptability, qualities essential for contemporary naval engagements. The vessel’s introduction raises important questions about the future of naval warfare and how nations will adapt to the changing landscape of global military power.

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A Platform Built for Multiple Missions

Beyond its combat capabilities, the AIRCAT Bengal MC is designed to perform a wide range of missions. Its modular design allows for customization based on specific operational needs, enabling the vessel to function as a troop transport, landing support craft, electronic warfare platform, drone mothership, and more. This versatility is part of Eureka’s broader fleet strategy, which includes other specialized vessels like the Bengal, Lynx, Jaguar, and Panther, each serving distinct roles such as reconnaissance, rescue, and high-speed transport.

The ability to tailor the AIRCAT Bengal MC to various missions makes it a valuable asset for modern navies. Its adaptability aligns with strategic objectives to maximize operational effectiveness while minimizing costs. As naval forces face diverse challenges in different theaters of operation, the AIRCAT Bengal MC’s multifunctional capabilities could prove crucial in addressing emerging threats and maintaining maritime security.

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Advanced Autonomy Powered by Greenroom Robotics

The technological heart of the AIRCAT Bengal MC lies in its advanced autonomous navigation system, developed by Greenroom Robotics. Known as the Greenroom Advanced Maritime Autonomy (GAMA), this system enhances human operators’ capabilities throughout all phases of the vessel’s operations. Its effectiveness was demonstrated during the Patrol Boat Autonomy Trial (PBAT), where it was validated on a decommissioned patrol boat.

James Keane, CEO of Greenroom, expressed confidence in the collaboration, noting the system’s potential to elevate the vessel’s autonomous capabilities significantly. The AIRCAT Bengal MC is designed to appeal to a wide range of naval forces, including the US Navy, US Marine Corps, AUKUS partners, NATO allies, and regional navies across Asia. Its combination of lethal capabilities and operational efficiency positions it as a formidable addition to the naval landscape.

As the AIRCAT Bengal MC enters service, it prompts consideration of the future role of autonomous vessels in naval strategies worldwide. How will this technological advancement influence global naval power dynamics, and what implications will it have for international security and maritime stability?

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