01Breaking Defense2026-10-19
DIU unveils next phase in unmanned vessel competition (opens in a new tab)
The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has initiated the second phase of its SWAP-USV prize challenge, offering up to $40 million for mature unmanned surface vessels (USVs) deployable within 120 days. This phase targets USVs equipped with hard-kill counter-air systems and resilient sensors to detect and neutralize airborne threats like Groups 1–3 UAS and rotary-wing aircraft, with a minimum range of 200 nautical miles and a speed of 10 knots. Submissions are due by November 30, with in-water testing set for early 2027, while the final phase (Sprint 3) will conclude by summer 2027. The competition, backed by $200 million for potential contracts, aims to address cost-effective, persistent defense against low-signature threats.