In a strategic move to bolster maritime security and stability in the Middle East region, the U.S. 5th Fleet’s Task Force 59 has introduced the MARTAC T-38 Devil Ray unmanned surface vessel (USV) to the Arabian Gulf.
The task force is on a mission to integrate unmanned systems and artificial intelligence with maritime operations.
The T-38 Devil Ray, a creation of American company Maritime Tactical Systems (MARTAC), is part of the MANTAS Medium Category Vessels introduced in July 2020.
The primary objective behind these USVs is to facilitate large-scale operations, combining Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs), and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs).
The T-38 USV boasts impressive capabilities, with a cruise speed of 25 knots (46 km/h) and a burst speed of 80 knots (148 km/h). Despite its power, it maintains a manageable weight of 2,950 kg and a draft of just 18 inches (46 cm).
The integration of such advanced technologies in the maritime domain is a significant step towards enhancing security and stability, ensuring that the Arabian Gulf remains safeguarded within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.
