Textron Systems Unmanned Systems, a Textron Inc. business, announced that it began on-water testing for the fourth-generation Common Unmanned Surface Vehicle (CUSV™), supporting the U.S. Navy’s Unmanned Influence Sweep System (UISS) program.
Textron Systems completed the design, build and component test phases of the UISS program in November 2016. Following component testing, Textron Systems began the systems level integration and test (I&T) phase, culminating in dockside and on-water testing in Lake Pontchartrain near its Marine & Land Systems facility in Louisiana. The I&T phase includes functional testing of the system’s integrated generators, engines, datalinks, as well as on-water maneuverability testing. Textron Systems will move into builders’ trials upon completion of I&T and then formal testing to validate system functionality with the U.S. Navy later this year.
“We are excited to begin system level testing of our first UISS system with mine countermeasure capabilities for the U.S. Navy. Unmanned technology has come such a long way, and we are looking forward to beginning to apply our critical technology to protect our Naval warfighters,” said Vice President of Control and Surface Systems Wayne Prender.
The Textron Systems Unmanned Systems fourth-generation CUSV is a multi-mission unmanned surface vehicle with a large, configurable payload bay. Since its first demonstration in 2009, the CUSV has successfully completed several prominent exercises with the U.S. Navy. Today, the variations of the CUSV have amassed more than 2,000 on-water operational hours, and the craft is capable of carrying multiple payloads, including side-scan sonar, mine neutralization, nonlethal weapons, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance sensors. Textron Systems’ team includes its Marine & Land Systems business to leverage its 48 years of naval experience and proven ship-building capability, alongside the company’s unmanned systems expertise.
Textron Systems’ businesses develop and integrate products, services and support for aerospace and defense customers, as well as civil and commercial customers including those in law enforcement, security, border patrol and critical infrastructure protection around the globe.
Harnessing agility and a broad base of expertise, Textron Systems’ innovative businesses design, manufacture, field and support comprehensive solutions that expand customer capabilities and deliver value. Textron Systems consists of its Advanced Information Solutions, Electronic Systems, Geospatial Solutions, Lycoming Engines, Marine & Land Systems, Support Solutions, TRU Simulation + Training, Unmanned Systems and Weapon & Sensor Systems businesses.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna, Beechcraft, Hawker, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, Bad Boy Off Road, Textron Systems, and TRU Simulation + Training.
(*) CUSV™ is a trademark of AAI Corporation
