Navy to stand up new unmanned surface vessel squadron

The Navy plans to establish a new unmanned surface vessel squadron -- a new organization that will focus on tactics, techniques and procedures and the concept of operations for small USVs, according to a Navy official.

During a fiscal year 2025 budget hearing last week before the House Armed Services seapower and projection forces subcommittee, Nickolas Guertin -- assistant Navy secretary for research, development and acquisition -- included in his written statement that the service’s Surface Development Squadron One (SURFDEVRON) plans to establish a new unmanned squadron in FY-25.

USV Squadron 3 will be established May 17, a Navy spokesperson told Inside Defense. SURFDEVRON is being renamed Surface Development Group One, the spokesperson added.