BlackSea’s Comet USV in Tampa for SOF Week 2026

A high-speed combat ready unmanned surface vessel, bristling with vital capabilities for global special operations missions 

From BlackSea Technologies 

TAMPA, Fla., May 18, 2026, BlackSea Technologies will showcase its Comet unmanned surface vessel during SOF Week 2026, bringing the company’s larger, high speed combat ready platform to the Tampa Convention Center (TCC) Waterfront at Dock 18 and inside the TCC at Booth 2600.  

Comet is designed to bridge the gap between small tactical unmanned surface vessels and larger unmanned combat craft. The 13.1 meter vessel can exceed 45 knots, carry a 10,000 pound payload including fuel, and support advanced payloads for a wide range of missions, including counter UAS, mine countermeasures, surface warfare, antisubmarine warfare, electronic warfare, maritime domain awareness and high value unit escort.  

“Comet brings BlackSea’s proven operational success with our family of unmanned surface vessels to the global special operations community at a time when maritime forces must be faster, more distributed and more adaptable,” said Bob Pudney, president of BlackSea Technologies. “This platform gives special operations forces a combat ready unmanned vessel that can support defensive and offensive missions against current and emerging threats, while carrying the payloads, sensors and effects needed for today’s fight and future operating environments.”  

Comet will showcase mission contributions from several leading industry partners, including Sierra Nevada Corp. with the BRAWLR missile system, EOS Defense Systems USA for the 30mm gun system, Leonardo DRS RADA with the RPS 42 MHR array radar, Seakeeper for gyro stabilization, Volvo Penta for propulsion, and DECPT for a unique signature management wrap designed to increase survivability in contested maritime environments.