US Navy operates T-38 Devil Ray Unmanned Surface Vessel in Bahrain


According to information published by the U.S. DoD on May 2, 2022, a T-38 Devil Ray unmanned surface vessel operates during a demonstration off the coast of Bahrain.
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Russian Vyborg Shipyard laid the Purga ice class coastguard ship of project 23550 925 001 T-38 Devil Ray, Unmanned Surface Vessel. (Picture source: U.S. DoD)


In September 2021, U.S. 5th Fleet launched Task Force 59 to integrate new unmanned systems and artificial intelligence.

The T-38 is a USV (Unmanned Surface Vessel) developed by the American Company Maritime Tactical Systems (MARTAC). In July 2020, MARTAC has announced the launching of MANTAS Medium Category Vessels, consisting of the MANTAS T24 (24 ft or 7m), T38 (38 ft or 11m), and T50 (50 ft or 15m) variants.

This class of USVs is designed for larger-scale operations and capabilities to integrate Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs), and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs).

The T-38 USV can travel at a cruise speed of 25 knots (46 km/h) with a burst speed of 80 knots (148 km/h), weighs 2,950 kg, and draws just 18 inches (46 cm) of draft.

The T38 has the ability to carry a payload up to 2,050 kg. Given the speed and carrying capacity of the T38-sized USV, it is readily apparent how it can fulfill logistics functions in amphibious operations.