# US Navy Deploys First Large Uncrewed Surface Vessel in Strike Group The USS Theodore Roosevelt strike group integrates an autonomous Seahawk vessel for naval operations. - **Source:** [SlashGear](https://www.slashgear.com) - **Published:** 2026-10-19 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/e8558d75-4389-4865-a88c-e09593e5106e ## Historic Naval Integration Milestone On October 14, 2026, the US Navy achieved a significant milestone by integrating a large uncrewed surface vessel into the USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group 9. This deployment marks the first time such an autonomous platform has operated alongside a carrier strike group, signaling a shift in modern naval warfare strategies. ## The Seahawk Platform Specifications The deployed vessel is a Seahawk, a medium uncrewed surface vessel developed by Leidos. Measuring 135 feet in length with a displacement of 156.86 tons, the ship features a composite hull designed to resist saltwater corrosion. It is engineered for autonomous operation over transoceanic ranges, capable of remaining at sea for several months. ## Strategic Force Multiplier Capabilities Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao described the vessel as a critical force multiplier for the fleet. These USVs are capable of intelligence collection, drone launching, and offensive or defensive munitions firing. By adding more autonomous firepower to the strike group, the Navy aims to expand its operational reach and tactical flexibility at sea. ## Evolution from Previous Prototypes The Seahawk represents an upgraded iteration of the earlier Sea Hunter MUSV model. After taking delivery of both vessels in August 2025, the Navy utilized them for extensive research and experimentation. This testing phase focused on determining the most effective integration methods for these autonomous platforms within standard naval combat and support operations. ## Operational Readiness and Maintenance The use of composite materials in the Seahawk hull addresses long-standing concerns regarding marine-borne rust and saltwater corrosion. Maintaining large vessels during long deployments is a significant challenge for the Navy, as evidenced by the condition of ships like the USS Abraham Lincoln. Autonomous vessels offer a solution to these persistent maintenance issues. ## Upcoming Keen Sword 2027 Exercise The Carrier Strike Group 9 is currently preparing to participate in the Keen Sword 2027 exercise. This biennial joint naval event involves the United States and the Japan Self-Defense Forces. The Seahawk is expected to operate autonomously among larger manned vessels, providing a real-world test of its coordination capabilities in complex maritime environments. ## Ambiguity Regarding Deployment Scope While the deployment is confirmed, the Navy has not clarified if this mission is a continuation of research experimentation or a transition to full operational utilization. Public details remain scarce regarding the specific tactical role the Seahawk will perform during the upcoming joint exercises, leaving its exact mission parameters currently undisclosed to observers. ## Future of Autonomous Naval Warfare The inclusion of the Seahawk in a carrier strike group underscores the Navy's commitment to integrating unmanned technology into core combat formations. As the military continues to evaluate these platforms, the success of this deployment will likely dictate the pace at which autonomous vessels are permanently incorporated into future global naval strike groups. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.slashgear.com/2289862/us-navy-first-large-size-drone-ship-strike-group/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._