Naval Group starts experimental trials with Sterenn Du MUSV testbed

Sterenn Du has been reactivated by Naval Group for use as an experimental testbed for large unmanned platforms and autonomous systems. (Naval Group)

French shipbuilder Naval Group has started experimental at-sea trials with the medium unmanned surface vessel (MUSV) Sterenn Du from its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) centre of expertise in Saint-Mandrier.

A Naval Group spokesperson told Janes that the trials, expected to continue well into 2024, include testing manned-unmanned teaming, the capability to integrate large USVs (LUSVs) with manned warships, optimal payload configurations, controlled decision-making autonomy based on artificial intelligence technology, and the autonomous launch and recovery of unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and small USVs such as Naval Group's D-19 UUV and its new oceanic drone demonstrator (DDO).

The results of these tests will also enable the development of MUSV and LUSV concepts of operation (CONOPS).

Sterenn Du belongs to the French defence procurement agency, Direction générale de l'armement (DGA), and is being leased to Naval Group to use as an experimental testbed for large unmanned platforms and autonomous systems. Built in 2010 by the Pech'Alu International Shipyard in Morbihan and laid up in Brest since 2016, the catamaran-hulled vessel underwent a major modification by Naval Group subsidiary Sirehna during the first quarter of 2023 for its new role.