Testing proves maturity as program moves closer to initial operational capability 

From RTX 

PORTSMOUTH, R.I. (July 8, 2025) — Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, has successfully demonstrated its Barracuda mine neutralization vehicle in an untethered, semi-autonomous operation for the first time during recent open water testing in Narragansett Bay. 

During the demonstration, Raytheon’s Barracuda proved its ability to autonomously navigate, communicate, detect and identify targets, and operate independently underwater. 

“This recent testing demonstrates the significant strides we’ve made in advancing mine countermeasure technology,” said Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon. “Barracuda’s capabilities will dramatically improve safety and efficiency for the U.S. Navy, keeping sailors out of harm’s way while effectively addressing underwater threats.” 

Barracuda is the newest U.S. Navy program of record for mine neutralization. It is the first untethered, semi-autonomous mine neutralization system capable of tracking and identifying bottom, volume and near-surface mines with man-in-the-loop delivering a final decision for neutralization. The program started in research and development within Raytheon’s Advanced Technology business segment – a group of innovators that matures technologies that are incorporated into Raytheon products including franchise programs such as LTAMDS and SPY-6. 

In line with the Navy’s acquisition plan, Raytheon’s Barracuda is on track to achieve initial operational capability and low-rate initial production by 2030. In addition to executing mine neutralization missions, the company is investing in developing a larger and more advanced variant to meet different mission sets such as subsea and seabed warfare. 

From Lockheed Martin 

This strategic collaboration will accelerate the development and scaling of Medium Unmanned Surface Vehicles (mUSVs). 

PROVIDENCE, R.I., July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — In a significant step forward for maritime defense, HavocAI, a leading innovator in maritime autonomy, and Lockheed Martin Ventures, the venture capital arm of Lockheed Martin Corporation, today announced a strategic collaboration to accelerate the development and scaling of Medium Unmanned Surface Vehicles (mUSVs). 

The joint effort positions the companies to transform the future of maritime warfare by combining HavocAI’s cutting-edge autonomy stack with Lockheed Martin’s extensive defense expertise and advanced weapons integration capabilities. 

“The future of maritime warfare is autonomous, and the mUSV is at the forefront of this revolution,” said Paul Lwin, Founder and CEO at HavocAI. “By collaborating with Lockheed Martin, we can integrate advanced weapons systems and deliver complete solutions that meet the evolving needs of our warfighters. This collaboration is a significant step forward for HavocAI and demonstrates our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.” 

The partnership comes as the U.S. Department of Defense increasingly recognizes autonomous maritime platforms as critical to maintaining naval superiority and addressing emerging threats in contested waters. The federal commitment is substantial, with recent legislation calling for historic levels of funding for medium unmanned surface vehicle manufacturing, unmanned undersea vehicle development, and maritime robotic autonomous systems and enabling technologies. The collaboration positions HavocAI to rapidly scale production of mUSVs while leveraging Lockheed Martin’s deep relationships across the defense industrial base to capitalize on these significant funding opportunities. 

“Maintaining superiority in maritime defense is fundamental to ensuring deterrence in contested waters. Autonomous capabilities make investment now more important than ever, to help the United States and its allies remain on the cutting-edge of defense technology at sea,” said Chis Moran, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin Ventures. “The mUSV is a game-changer for maritime defense, offering enhanced range, payload capacity, and mission versatility. By combining HavocAI’s innovative autonomy stack with our ability to integrate the best of American technology and deliver at scale, we can give warfighters a decisive edge in future conflicts.” 

HavocAI has established itself as a pioneer in the development of autonomous surface vessels for military applications, with active contracts spanning the U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, and Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). The company has produced over 50 of its 14′ autonomous boats to date, with the Department of Defense purchasing more than two dozen vessels for operational deployment. 

HavocAI recently completed successful autonomy sea trials of its 42′ vessel. The company plans to introduce a 100′ mUSV by the end of 2025, continuing its important advances in both innovation and scalability. 

From Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, June 28, 2025 

SEATTLE – The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10) departed Naval Base San Diego June 23 and arrived at its new homeport of Seattle June 28, following an 18-month rotational deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. 

While on deployment, the Gabrielle Giffords conducted presence operations and engagements with allies and partners throughout the region to maintain a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific. 
 
“Gabrielle Giffords has arrived safely in Washington, and we are grateful for a welcoming community.” said Capt. Jose Roman, commodore, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron One. 
 
In the early months of 2024, the Gabrielle Giffords conducted operations with the Philippine Navy offshore patrol vessel BRP Gregorio del Pilar (PS 15) in the South China Sea. The Gabrielle Giffords, while part of Destroyer Squadron 7 in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations, increased interoperability with allies and partners and served as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. 
 
The Gabrielle Giffords participated in CARAT Thailand 2024 alongside the Royal Thai Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy. CARAT, in its 30th iteration, promoted regional security cooperation, maintained and strengthened maritime partnerships, and enhanced maritime interoperability. It included anti-submarine warfare training, air defense exercises, and surface action group coordination. 
 
The Gabrielle Giffords has both a Blue crew and a Gold crew, which alternate being “on-hull” aboard the ship and “off-hull” conducting training in San Diego. The ship successfully sustained a longer-than-usual deployment because of the hard work of both crews. 
 
Littoral combat ships (LCS) are fast, optimally manned, mission-tailored surface combatants that operate in near-shore and open-ocean environments, deterring 21st-century threats. LCS integrate with joint, combined, manned, and unmanned teams to support forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions around the globe. 
 
For more news from Commander, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron 1, visit https://www.surfpac.navy.mil/comlcsron1/ or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/COMLCSRONONE/ 

By U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command / U.S. 4th Fleet Public Affairs Continuing Promise Detachment, July 4, 2025 

The Mercy-class hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) arrived in Manta, Ecuador for the third mission stop of Continuing Promise 2025 (CP 25), July 4, 2025. 

“We look forward to building upon our relationship with Ecuador through medical care and exchanges, community relations events, and experiencing the vibrant culture of Manta,” said Capt. Ryan Kendall, commodore, Destroyer Squadron 40 and CP 25 mission commander. “Our combined efforts to enhance readiness and strengthen our partnership will lead to a safer, more secure region.” 

This visit marks the fifth Continuing Promise visit to Ecuador, as well as the fifth visit aboard Comfort. While in Ecuador, Comfort team will conduct direct patient medical care aboard Comfort and at various medical sites throughout the region. Services provided in conjunction with medical representatives from Ecuador will include general medicine, dentistry, optometry, ophthalmology, pediatric care, internal medicine, women’s health, cardiology, dermatology, physiotherapy, and various subject matter expert exchanges focused on humanitarian aid and disaster relief. 

“We are pleased to welcome the USNS Comfort to Ecuador,” said Mr. Lawrence Petroni, Chargé d’Affaires, U.S. Embassy in Ecuador. “This ship’s visit to Manabí exemplifies the United States’ enduring partnership with Ecuador and our comprehensive approach to security cooperation. Beyond delivering essential medical care, the mission will fortify communities by supporting local programs that steer youth away from organized crime through service, education, and health initiatives. These efforts reinforce our shared commitment to lasting regional stability.” 

In addition to medical and dental care, veterinarians from the U.S. Army 248th Medical Detachment Veterinary Service Support will conduct canine tactical combat care seminars as well as a cattle ranching symposium. 

The Comfort team will also participate in community relations projects including beautification of Verdi Cevallos Hospital and Gil Pinto School, beach cleanups, and soccer and volleyball games to build camaraderie beyond the scope of medical aid. 

“Being able to bring Sailors to experience these foreign interactions helps strengthen our team aboard the Comfort,” said Religious Program Specialist Seaman Apprentice Julian Ventura. “I hope these engagements that help foreign communities also help our Sailors find their purpose as we build relationships during Continuing Promise.” 

Ventura shares a similar outlook to Steel Worker 2nd Class Jonas Bresette, who is assigned to Comfort from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 11. NMCB 11’s, also known as Seabees, mission is focused on construction and engineering to support military operations and disaster relief efforts worldwide. 

“After our recent work in Panama, the shift of dynamic will be focused on more hands-on training with our Ecuadorian counterparts, in addition to working alongside them,” said Bresette, 

the detachment safety supervisor for NMCB 11. “I’m very excited to be able to explore the native culture and experience the city of Manta.” 

In Ecuador, the Seabees plans to complete engineering and utilities projects at the Escuela Republica Del Ecuador and Unidad Educativa El Porvenir schools in Manta. 

CP25 marks the 16th mission to the region since 2007 and the eighth aboard Comfort. The mission will foster goodwill, strengthen existing partnerships with partner nations, and encourage the establishment of new partnerships among countries, non-federal entities, and international organizations. 

CP is committed to assisting host nation efforts to provide vital medical care in the South American region that have limited access and promoting independence in case of medical disasters and emergencies through subject matter expect exchanges. 

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet supports U.S. Southern Command’s joint and combined military operations by employing maritime forces in cooperative maritime security operations to maintain access, enhance interoperability, and build enduring partnerships in order to enhance regional security and promote peace, stability and prosperity in the Caribbean, Central and South American region. 

Learn more about USNAVSOUTH/4th Fleet news and photos, visit facebook.com/NAVSOUS4THFLT, https://www.fourthfleet.navy.mil/, X – @ NAVSOUS4THFLT, and https://www.linkedin.com/company/u-s-naval-forces-southern-command-u-s-4th-fleet 

Release From Chief Petty Officer Darren Moore

GROTON, Connecticut – The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Delaware (SSN 791), under the command of Cmdr. Jason Patton, returned to Naval Submarine Base New London Saturday, July 5, completing a six-month deployment to U.S. European Command area of responsibility. 

Cmdr. Jason Patton praised his crew and their commitment to projecting power across the globe. 

“The crew of USS Delaware is a group of outstanding professional submariners,” said Patton, from Laramie, Wyoming. “We were deployed for 205 days and we spent 194 of those at sea accomplishing our nation’s tasking. That wouldn’t have been possible without teamwork, dedication, and tenacity from every Sailor onboard. I’m extremely proud of their accomplishments and lucky to be a part of such a great crew.” 

Patton also credited the crew’s accomplishments to those who were not underway with them. 

“I would be remiss for mentioning the crew’s accomplishments without acknowledging the world class support from our loved ones back home,” Patton said. “While we battled the rough seas and cold they fought through countless home emergencies, car problems, and parenting moments. We are grateful for their steadfast resolve and are ecstatic to be home with them again.” 
 
Delaware steamed more than 42,000 nautical miles and made port calls to Haakonsvern, Norway. 
 
During its deployment, Delaware completed the first-ever forward deployed submarine torpedo tube launch and recovery of a Yellow Moray (REMUS 600) unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV). The integration of robotic and autonomous systems is expected to enhance operational flexibility and capabilities of future submarine missions, providing the ability to extend reach at both shallower and deeper depths than a manned submarine can access. 
 
Fifty-four personnel earned their submarine warfare devices – commonly referred to as “dolphins” – during the deployment and two Delaware Sailors had new babies. 
 
Sonar Technician (Submarine) 3rd Class Landon Nichols, from Summerville, South Carolina, and his wife, Anna Nichols, were honored with the ceremonial first kiss on the pier. 
 
Chief Electronics Technician (Nuclear) Douglas Ames, from Sudan, Texas, was awarded the ceremonial first hug with his wife, Jessica Ames. 
 
Commissioned April 4, 2020, Delaware is the 18th Virginia-class attack submarine and is the seventh U.S. warship named after the first state of Delaware. Due to COVID -19 restrictions at the time, the official commissioning date was April 2, 2020, while the boat was underway, making it the first U.S. naval warship to be commissioned while submerged. It has a length of 377 feet with a beam of 34 feet and can operate at more than 25 knots submerged. 
 
The Virginia-class of nuclear-powered fast attack submarines are designed for a broad spectrum of open-ocean and littoral missions. Fast-attack submarines are multi-mission platforms enabling five of the six Navy maritime strategy core capabilities – sea control, power projection, forward presence, maritime security and deterrence. They are designed to excel in anti-submarine warfare, anti-ship warfare, strike warfare, special operations, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, irregular warfare and mine warfare. Fast-attack submarines project power ashore with special operations forces and Tomahawk cruise missiles in the prevention or response to regional crises. 

Release From Lockheed Martin

MOORESTOWN, N.J. July 7, 2025 – Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), successfully delivered the first Aegis System Equipped Vessel (ASEV) shipset comprised of four AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar antennas to the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMOD). The delivery was facilitated through Mitsubishi Corporation under a Direct Commercial Sale arrangement after rigorous acceptance testing. 

“The successful on-time delivery of all antennas for the first ASEV showcases the maturity and scalability of the SPY-7 radar as well as production capacity, while also demonstrating Lockheed Martin’s dedication and expertise in system integration,” said Chandra Marshall, vice president of Multi-Domain Combat Solutions at Lockheed Martin. 

The JMOD is acquiring two ASEVs, and both are on track for commissioning in Japan Fiscal Year 2027 and 2028. Marshall continued, “We will continue full system integration and testing with all four antennas at the Production Test Center in Moorestown, New Jersey this year, prior to equipment delivery to Japan, which will significantly reduce integration risk and enable commissioning on schedule.” 

The SPY-7 Advantage 

With advanced detection and tracking capabilities, SPY-7 effectively counters complex threats, enabling simultaneous engagement of multiple targets and delivering a robust 21st century security capability that enhances the effectiveness of naval forces in an increasingly uncertain and dynamic environment. 

In addition to Japan’s ASEVs, the SPY-7 radar is also being produced for Canada’s River-Class Destroyers, Spain’s F-110 Frigates, and the land-based version has been deployed by the Missile Defense Agency for the Guam Defense System (TPY-6) and the Long-Range Discrimination Radar. The selection of Lockheed Martin’s solid-state radar by both the U.S. and multiple international allies demonstrates the world-class capability and maturity of the radar. In December 2024, Lockheed Martin’s land-based version of the SPY-7 radar, known as TPY-6, successfully intercepted a mid-range ballistic missile as part of the Aegis Guam System during a flight experiment Flight Experiment Mission-02. 

Learn more about SPY-7 capability here. 

Release From Saildrone, July 7, 2025

COPENHAGEN, Denmark–Saildrone, the global leader in maritime autonomy, has successfully concluded its participation in NATO Task Force X’s multi-domain demonstration in the Baltic Sea—a landmark deployment showcasing the capability, reliability, and international utility of its Saildrone Voyager uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs). 

From June 16 to 27, 2025, four Saildrone Voyagers operated in both the Gulf of Finland and the western Baltic Sea as part of NATO’s innovative Task Force X Baltic initiative. Led by NATO Allied Command Transformation (ACT), in coordination with NATO Maritime Command (MARCOM) and the Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE), the demonstration aimed to integrate uncrewed systems into active Allied maritime operations. 

“We are honored to have participated in the NATO Task Force X Baltic Initiative. After eight years of operating Saildrone USVs in the Bering Sea, we are well placed to deal with the conditions in the Baltic Sea, which has very similar latitude, water depths, and sea conditions,” said Saildrone founder and CEO Richard Jenkins. “Task Force X Baltic has been fantastic to work with, and we look forward to future missions with NATO partners.” 

Throughout the operation, the Saildrone Voyagers maintained a 100% persistent presence on station, delivering 24/7 wide-area surveillance and real-time maritime domain awareness, including continued operations during recent passage of near-gale to gale-force winds and rough seas with waves over 2 meters (6.5 feet) through the area of operation. Saildrone detected and tracked hundreds of vessels daily, and successfully identified the exercises’ “red forces.” Additionally, Saildrone identified real-world dark targets in the area, including Russian “shadow fleet” and military vessels. 

Another important success of the deployment was pairing Saildrone’s long-range radar and persistent surveillance capability with high-speed unmanned maritime assets. The Voyagers’ ability to detect contacts of interest at extended range enabled rapid-response investigations by fast-moving uncrewed vessels, demonstrating a layered, autonomous force structure capable of responding to dynamic maritime scenarios in real time. 

The four Voyager USVs were deployed from Køge, Denmark, earlier this month. Saildrone operates on a contractor-owned and operated model, meaning it provides end-to-end mission operations and data delivery as a service. This approach enables rapid deployment, scalability, and reduced burden on government or commercial partners. 

Saildrone data is integrated into the customer’s common operating picture (COP) and is also available via the Saildrone Mission Portal. Saildrone’s global pilot team worked closely with NATO Maritime Command, delivering responsive, dynamic high-volume tasking to meet the operational objectives of the exercise. 

The Baltic Sea demonstration forms part of NATO’s Dynamic Messenger innovation pathway. Task Force X Baltic continues to advance NATO’s ability to rapidly integrate commercial-off-the-shelf autonomous systems, increasing scalability while preserving high-value crewed assets for critical missions. 

Saildrone’s impressive performance in the Baltic Sea further validates the Voyager USV platform’s primacy in defense and security applications, even in the harshest of conditions. 

Release From U.S. Coast Guard Heartland District

AUSTIN, Texas – The Coast Guard, along with a unified command, is responding to an area affected by flash flooding near Kerrville, Texas.  

Sector New Orleans watchstanders received a report July 4th at approximately 5:57 am from Texas A&M Task Force 1 personnel requesting assistance for rescue operations in response to flooding near Kerrville, Texas. 

An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew and an HC-144 Ocean Sentry Aircraft aircrew was launched from Air Station Corpus Christi along with an Air Station Houston MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew to provide assistance with rescue operations. 

The Coast Guard has conducted 12 flights to the affected area, and rescued 15 campers from Camp Mystic in Hunt, Texas, yesterday. A Coast Guard rescue swimmer remained with victims of the flooding, providing medical assistance to and aiding with the evacuation efforts of 230 victims into assisting agencies air assets.    

Additionally, today, three people were rescued, and four were assisted from a mobile home community in Leander, Texas.   

Agencies also responding to the flooded area are: 

• Texas Task Force 1  

• Texas Dept of Public Safety  

• Texas National Guard 

• Texas Parks and Wildlife 

• Country STAR Flight  

• Local Police Department 

“The preservation of life during this incident is our top priority,” said Capt. Ulysses S. Mullins, The Coast Guard Heartland District Chief of Staff, “which is why the Coast Guard is working with the State of Texas alongside other responding agencies to ensure that every asset on scene is able to coordinate, communicate and respond as safety and quickly as possible” 

Any media networks seeking information about the Coast Guard’s rescue and response operations are encouraged to contact the Texas Public Affairs Detachment Duty line at 832-293-1293. 

Release From U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, July 4, 2025 

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Coast Guard welcomed the nearly $25 billion investment included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Friday — marking the largest single commitment of funding in Service history.   

This investment strengthens every facet of Coast Guard operations and supports the Service’s role as the Nation’s leading drug interdiction and maritime border security force.   

This funding will allow the Coast Guard to procure an estimated 17 new icebreakers, 21 new cutters, over 40 helicopters and six C-130J aircraft while modernizing shore infrastructure and maritime surveillance systems. The package also strengthens the Coast Guard’s ability to counter drug and human trafficking, conduct search and rescue, enhance navigational safety and enable maritime trade.  

“This historic investment marks a new era for the Coast Guard,” said Coast Guard Acting Commandant Adm. Kevin Lunday. “It reflects the strong support of the American people and empowers us to restore our Service and prepare for the challenges of today and tomorrow. With this level of support, and the dedication of our Coast Guard men and women, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to build a stronger Coast Guard for the Nation.”  

Investment highlights include:  

• $4.4 billion for shore infrastructure, training facilities and homeports  

• $4.3 billion for Polar Security Cutters, extending U.S. reach in the Arctic  

• $4.3 billion for nine new Offshore Patrol Cutters  

• $3.5 billion for three Arctic Security Cutters  

• $2.3 billion for more than 40 MH-60 helicopters  

• $2.2 billion for depot level maintenance to sustain readiness  

• $1.1 billion for six new HC-130J aircraft and simulators  

• $1 billion for Fast Response Cutters  

• $816 million for light and medium Icebreaking Cutters  

• $266 million for long-range unmanned aircraft systems  

• $170 million for maritime domain awareness, including next-generation sensors   

• $162 million for three Waterways Commerce Cutters  

These investments support Force Design 2028 — the Secretary’s comprehensive effort to modernize operations and capabilities to ensure the Coast Guard remains the finest maritime fighting force ready to protect and defend the nation for decades to come.   

The Coast Guard extends its appreciation for the leadership of the Administration, including President Trump and Secretary Noem, and leaders in Congress for recognizing the strategic importance of a ready, modern and resilient Coast Guard.  

From U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters Public Affairs, July 3, 2025 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard announced Thursday the renaming of its operational districts from numerical to geographic designations, a key initiative under Force Design 2028 (FD2028). 

This strategic change, directed by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem on May 21, 2025, aims to indicate more accurately the regions they serve and represent. Renaming operational districts revises a numbered system established during World War II, when the Coast Guard operated as part of the Navy to ensure alignment between the services. In the 80 years since the Coast Guard separated from the Navy, the Service has maintained the numbered districts. However, the Navy stopped using numbered districts over 25 years ago. 

Updating operational districts to regional names will more clearly align districts with their areas of responsibility, facilitate collaboration with interagency partners, and ensure the American public and maritime stakeholders can easily find and understand the districts in which they live, recreate and operate. This change is a direct action within FD2028’s organization campaign, which is focused on adapting the Coast Guard’s structure to remain effective and responsive. 

The new geographic names, approved by the Department of Homeland Security, are as follows: 

District 1: USCG Northeast District 
District 5: USCG East District 
District 7: USCG Southeast District 
District 8: USCG Heartland District 
District 9: USCG Great Lakes District 
District 11: USCG Southwest District 
District 13: USCG Northwest District 
District 14: USCG Oceania District 
District 17: USCG Arctic District 

“This renaming is more than just a change in labels; it’s a critical step in our journey to become a more agile, capable, and responsive fighting force,” said Acting Commandant Kevin E. Lunday. “Under Force Design 2028, we are driving fundamental changes to speed decision-making, improve strategic alignment, and ultimately best serve the American people for decades to come. This initiative underscores our commitment to ensuring that change is lasting and has an enduring impact on the Service and the Nation.” 

This change will not impact operations or change existing geographical district boundaries. To memorialize the updated names for operational districts, the Coast Guard is undertaking the process of formally changing district names in the Code of Federal Regulations. Through this process, the Coast Guard will continue to communicate with stakeholders and provide updated resources and information as appropriate. 

For more information, please contact Coast Guard Media Relations at [email protected]. 

Read more about the Coast Guard’s transformation through FD2028 here: USCG Force Design 2028.