Textron Systems’ Common Unmanned Surface Vehicle CUSV Achieves Milestone C

Textron Systems press release

The decision allows the program to enter low-rate initial production (LRIP), with the Navy planning to award three UISS systems to Textron Systems under their existing contract.

“The Textron and U.S. Navy teams have worked diligently to reach this Milestone C decision. We recognize the time on the water and dedication of the testing teams which enabled us to enter this phase of the program.”  

Wayne Prender, Senior Vice President, Applied Technologies & Advanced Programs

UISS is the Navy’s first unmanned surface vehicle (USV) program of record, designed for the demanding maritime environment. It provides unmanned mine counter measure and capabilities using interchangeable payloads and advanced sensors.

UISS completed Navy developmental test and operational assessment in November. The UISS is the first in the Navy’s USV portfolio to reach this milestone. UISS is part of a comprehensive Mine Counter Measure Unmanned Surface Vehicle (MCM USV) mission and is designed to be deployed from the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) and vessels of opportunity.   

Textron Systems is the prime contractor and system integrator for the UISS and MCM USV programs. The company designed CUSV as a multi-mission unmanned surface vehicle, capability of carrying multiple payloads including side-scan sonar, mine neutralization, non-lethal weapons, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) sensors.

Production will be completed at Textron’s Hunt Valley, Md. and New Orleans locations.