British maritime firm Kraken Technology Group has won a $49 million contract to build prototype uncrewed surface and underwater vessels for U.S. special forces.
The United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has awarded the British firm the funding under an Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreement, a mechanism allowing it to rapidly assess and integrate emerging technologies.
Kraken builds a range of uncrewed surface vessels including its family of K3 Scout drone platforms, some of which are capable of 55 knots and 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.
As per a recent press statement: “The OTA award marks a significant milestone in Kraken’s mission to redefine the operational potential of uncrewed maritime systems for allied nations.
“Under this agreement, Kraken will design, develop, and deliver prototype vessels that leverage cutting-edge materials, stealth characteristics, and modular mission payload integration.”
It said the platforms being developed for the U.S. under the terms of the OTA would feature autonomous navigation, stealth technologies, and sensor and effector suites for ISR, logistics, and littoral strike missions.
CEO Mal Crease commented: “We are honoured to partner with USSOCOM in support of its mission to field disruptive maritime capabilities.”
He added: “This OTA represents a validation of our technology roadmap and underscores the critical need for next-generation uncrewed platforms that deliver superior agility, survivability, and operational versatility in the maritime domain.”
- You can read more details on the Kraken Technology Group website