Unmanned WAM-V®

The WAM-V technology is uniquely suited for unmanned operation.

WAM-V USVs maximize the advantages of control system miniaturization with low weight vessels. Designed specifically for unmanned applications, the WAM-V USVs are ready to receive and respond to instrument and control packages. The top deck easily accommodates these packages in the highest position, free of obstructions.

The 2:1 length-to-beam ratio, suspension system and articulating joints provide excellent stability in a wide range of sea states and shock mitigation to C4 and payload packages.

The elevated central structure allows for direct vertical (helicopter-like) deployment and retrieval of payload. WAM-V USVs can launch, recover and recharge UUVs/AUVs. No over-the-side cranes or booms, which can compromise vessel stability and payload integrity, are required.

Using the foldable feature of the WAM-V USV, the footprint of the vessel can be reduced by up to 75%. The vessel can be launched in the folded configuration by a crane, A-frame, stern ramp or drogue system for RIBs and then remotely unfolded. This allows the WAM-V USV to be deployed and to carry out missions, e.g. UUV deployment and retrieval, when other vessels of comparable size cannot.

The inflatable hulls, suspension system and articulating joints give the WAM-V a soft presence. For example: the inflatable hulls protect the vessel in accidental collisions and groundings.

We believe that the WAM-V vessel class will fulfill multiple mission requirements at lower cost and with better performance than other USV technologies and that the WAM-V vessel class will become the standard platform for USV applications.

Technology Advantages

• Modularity: Several applications can be performed by the same vessel with appropriate modular packages
• Scalability: WAM-V USVs can be built in different sizes to match payload requirements
• Reduced footprint: up to 75% less volume for shipping, storage and/or transportation aboard a larger vessel
• Maneuverability, stability and excellent seakeeping
• Ideal instrument package position
• Easy payload delivery and retrieval to and from ocean surface

Typical Applications

• Port & riverine operations and surveillance
• Launch and recovery (LAR) of small to large AUVs/UUVs/ROVs
• Manatee/Whale Speed Zone Enforcement
• Surveillance of remote Marine Protected Areas & fishing grounds
• Deployment/retrieval of oceanographic sensors
• WAM-V USV outfitted with mini-typhoon guns, night vision cameras, CVLWT and dipping sonar to locate submarines.
• WAM-V USVs can provide Protected Passage and Sea Shield capabilities.
• WAM-V USV outfitted with UUV/AUV equipped with expendable mine neutralization system (EMNS).
• MIO (drug smuggling, aliens, contraband)

Examples of Applications

12’ WAM-V USV

The 12’ WAM-V USV was introduced at MACC in Norfolk, VA and at AUVSI USIC in San Diego in 2009. Later in the year it was delivered to Florida Atlantic University, Department of Ocean Engineering, to be used as a platform for research on autonomous operation.

33’ WAM-V USV

In 2010, under a NAVSEA contract, Marine Advanced Research developed the concept design of a 33ft WAM-V USV that can hydraulically fold to fit in a standard 20ft container for brown to blue water applications, with the following specifications:

Currently under construction, the first 33’ WAM-V USV will be ready for demonstrations in the summer of 2011 and will be introduced at AUVSI’s Unmanned Systems North America 2011 in Washington, DC.