Designed by the Maritime Systems division of MHI, the Whale USV is a project currently being developed for multiple applications.
The Whale USV has a length of 8.8 meters, a beam of 3.05 meters and a weight of about 6 tons. This USV was originally a test bed for the EMD system of the USV designed for the new Mogami-class (FFM) of frigate of the JMSDF. MHI has extensive experience with USV programs.
Key features of the USV that have already been developed include:
- Remote control of the USV and of the EMD system onboard of it
- Launch and recovery of UUV
- Launch and recovery of UAV
MHI is also planning to develop an “autonomous defense mission system” (for the EMD and to deal with UAVs).
At DSEI Japan 2023, the USV is showcased with a medium size VTOL UAV on its “landing deck”. Also on display is the control console and software for both the UAS and UAV dubbed “CoasTitan”.
Talking to Naval News during an interview, Hiroshi Obama, Senior Chief Engineer & Manager, Naval Ships, Unmanned Systems and Technical Projects said that “The system has already been successfully demonstrated at sea during live tests”. The range of CoasTitan system is unlimited when using satellite link, he added.
