Wings spread: Seagull maritime autonomous system positions itself to take the unmanned fight underwater

摘要

Israel's Elbit Systems is continuing to develop its Seagull unmanned surface vessel (USV) system in advance of receiving a first series production order. Working closely with the Israeli Navy, which has sought to build up its own understanding of Seagull's capabilities through a series of evaluations and operational exercises, the company is eyeing a maritime autonomous systems market that most observers expect to grow substantially over the next decade. As well as its work with the Israeli Navy, Elbit is pursuing several sales leads in Europe and Southeast Asia, and is confident of securing initial orders within the next year. The company is also looking to gain a foothold in the US market, although it acknowledges that it needs to 'Americanise' its offer to be successful.