Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs): A JFMCC Operational Protection Capability.

摘要

Achieving and maintaining operational protection has created three significant challenges for the JFMCC within his area of operations (AO). First, a larger AO requires a greater footprint of forces in support of the theater. Second, the protection of this theater necessitates a more durable, permanent level of security, lasting months or even years. Areas of responsibility (AORs), such as Pacific Command (PACOM) and Central Command (CENTCOM), face Anti- Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) threats that require a continuous maritime presence. Lastly, the maritime domain encompasses a wide variety of new threats in a more challenging asymmetric environment. These challenges require a greater, sustainable maritime force to maintain the balance of global security. Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) represent a significant operational protection capability to the JFMCC for effectively accomplishing the core elements of Anti- Submarine Warfare (ASW), Mine Countermeasures (MCM), and coastal surveillance/defense in support of the 21st century maritime security operations (MSO) mission.