Two new uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), the K5 Kraken and K7 Sabre, will be built in America under a new partnership between Anduril and Kraken Technology Group.
As per a joint press statement, the new agreement will see Anduril integrate payloads and Lattice autonomy software onto the platforms with a view to supplying the drone boats to the U.S. Navy. In parallel, Kraken will run a second production line “designing a distinct hull variant for allied operational requirements.”
Kraken Technology Group CEO Mal Crease commented: “This partnership reflects Kraken’s commitment to supporting global maritime challenges with hardened operational capabilities at a critical point in history. Under this agreement Kraken will deliver low-cost, scalable and modular systems that are both reliable and effective.”
And Anduril’s General Manager of Surface Dominance Cory Emmons added: “Kraken is known for their proven, battle-tested platforms. This partnership expands Anduril’s family of autonomous surface offerings with small boats carrying mission payloads, adding a complementary capability to larger ASVs and the legacy fleet.”
In March it was announced Kraken would supply 20 USVs to the British Royal Navy under Project Beehive. It also won a $49 million Other Transaction Authority (OTA) from the U.S. Department of War after showcasing its K3 Scout USV to American special forces in 2025.
Kraken builds a family of K3 Scout drone platforms, some of which are capable of 55 knots; they are suitable for both strike and ISR missions.
It has also developed the K4 Manta, which it describes as an uncrewed surface subsurface vessel (USSV). It marries rapid surface transit of sensor or effect payloads with the ability to submerge for covert infiltration, or persistent ISR and/or loitering roles.
The K5 Kraken is a 15-metre optionally crewed USV designed for maritime engagement and littoral strike, and security missions. Developed as a gunship, it has a payload capacity of up to two tonnes, can achieve a maximum speed of up to 65 knots, and has a range of about 1,000 nautical miles at 30kts.
The firm’s new partner Anduril also recently announced new progress in its relationship with South Korean maritime giant HD Hyundai, which will see autonomous uncrewed surface vessels (ASVs) built in Korea.
It revealed: “Following the successful completion of our critical design review, construction on our first ASV is underway, and the ship is on track to be in the water and tested by the end of this year.”
- You can read more details on the Anduril website and the Kraken Technology Group website