Unmanned systems are a decisive means of preventing a conflict or winning a fight. That is why the Netherlands Naval Command (CZSK) is now presenting a “Future Vision Maritime Uncrewed”.
Technological developments mean that the navy will look different by 2035. In the future, the CZSK will consist of a mix of larger platforms, together with sailing, flying, underwater and land-based unmanned systems.
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Out of harm’s way
Unmanned systems can make the difference in, for example, dangerous missions. Where possible, they can remove military personnel from harm’s way. In addition, computer-controlled systems can assist in processing large amounts of information.
To this end, the Taskforce Maritime Uncrewed has been established. In this group, operational and technical specialists work together with knowledge institutes. Industry can actively contribute by developing innovations that align with the defined future vision.
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System-of-systems approach
As a first step, the Taskforce has developed a vision for the next ten years. This outlines the role of unmanned systems in the future operational concept. The specialists distinguish seven different warfare areas across all maritime operations, ranging from the impact on amphibious operations to the protection of the North Sea and the Caribbean region.
Commander of the Naval Forces, Vice Admiral Harold Liebregs, received the first copy of the vision document on Tuesday, 28 April. ‘I am very pleased with this publication. With this Future Vision, we can show how we want to develop as the Royal Netherlands Navy. It is not about individual systems and platforms, but about a system-of-systems approach. Only effectively cooperating platforms, unmanned systems and people will increase our combat power. This Future Vision provides a clear course.’
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Exercises
In June, the Royal Netherlands Navy will test the system-of-systems concept during the Maritime Uncrewed Sea Trials (MUST), an exercise in the North Sea. During MUST, the navy will have unmanned systems in the air, on the water and underwater working together as a system of systems on a mission, controlled from a manned platform using IDUS software (Intelligent Distributed Uncrewed Systems).
Such rapid and effective feedback from innovation to operational application is essential in a time of constantly changing threats and rapid technological development.
Picture: Vice Admiral Liebregs (right) received the first copy of Future Vision Maritime Uncrewed (photo by Dutch Ministry of Defence).
