Aerosonde® UAS and TSUNAMI® USV Demonstrate Innovative Autonomous Integration in U.S. Navy’s Fleet Experimentation (FLEX)

Textron Systems recently participated in the U.S. Navy's Fleet Experimentation (FLEX) demonstration in Key West, Florida with U.S. Navy Fourth Fleet and SOUTHCOM, bringing together advanced uncrewed air and surface systems. Highlighting the next evolution of integrated, cross-domain autonomy, the exercise focused on demonstrating low-cost, scalable sensor-to-shooter kill chains using coordinated uncrewed systems (UxS), while validating the interoperability required for modern, distributed operations.

At the center of the demonstration was a multi-craft teaming scenario featuring the Aerosonde^® Mk. 4.7 VTOL Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS) and the TSUNAMI^® Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV). Operating from a littoral combat ship, the Aerosonde UAS was equipped with a laser designator payload, enabling precise identification and designation of targets in real time.

Sensor data collected by the Aerosonde UAS was disseminated across an integrated command-and-control network of platforms. These systems supported engagement decision-making, mission execution and real-time monitoring and assessment.

The TSUNAMI USV, outfitted with a precision-guided munition system, served as the kinetic component of the chain. Receiving targeting data from the Aerosonde UAS and other networked sources, the TSUNAMI vessel executed surface-to-surface engagements and provided a complete and responsive sensor-to-shooter workflow. The demonstration also included multiple engagement profiles, such as single-shot and rapid-fire sequences, as well as targeting supported by multiple laser designators.

Endurance and persistence were key themes throughout the demonstration. With battery and solar-enabled capabilities, TSUNAMI showcased extended-duration operations, supporting long-dwell missions without frequent human intervention, making it an asset for sustained ISR operations.

Integration with common command-and-control interfaces provided operators with a unified view of the operational environment. Simultaneously, connectivity to the Navy's Common Operating Picture (COP) enabled real-time distribution of video and telemetry through intelligent distribution software, ensuring critical data was accessible, shareable and actionable across the force.

A key objective of FLEX was validating cross-vendor integrations and platform-to-mission data flows. By ensuring that disparate systems can communicate and operate within a unified framework, the demonstration underscored the importance of a Modular Open System Architecture (MOSA) approach in enabling scalable and adaptable mission capabilities.

Maritime operations at FLEX further expanded the scope of autonomy through multi-vehicle coordination. The TSUNAMI autonomous USVs were deployed in support of law enforcement and interdiction scenarios, establishing persistent tripline coverage to detect, track and maintain custody of targets over extended periods. Multiple TSUNAMI craft were deployed to maximize their sensing area and facilitate pursuing vessels of interest. Both the Aerosonde UAS and the TSUNAMI USV played a critical role in enhancing maritime domain awareness and operational reach.

Additionally, autonomous behaviors were enhanced through counter-UAS detection capabilities, enabling responsive actions when threats were identified. This layered approach to autonomy further illustrated how unmanned systems can adapt to dynamic and contested environments.

Integrated air and surface autonomy delivered cohesive, mission-ready capabilities. By combining advanced sensors, precision effects, and interoperable networks, FLEX provided a clear view of how coordinated autonomous systems will shape the future of multi-domain operations.