The U.S. Navy and Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy recently conducted a successful live-fire exercise using a common unmanned surface vessel (CUSV) during Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024. This exercise, which took place on July 12, showcased the operational capabilities of the CUSV as a high-value unit escort. The CUSV, armed with six Poniard rockets, engaged a target with precision, demonstrating its effectiveness in a combat scenario.
The use of unmanned vehicles in military operations is becoming increasingly common due to the advantages they offer in terms of safety and efficiency. Lt. Cmdr. Janet VonEiff, the U.S. 3rd Fleet’s experimentation officer, highlighted the importance of unmanned craft in keeping sailors out of harm’s way while carrying out missions effectively. The successful deployment of the CUSV during the live-fire exercise underscores the potential of unmanned systems in modern naval warfare.
During the exercise, the CUSV was launched from the ROK tank landing ship ROKS Cheon Ja Bong (LST-687). In addition to the CUSV, an unmanned aerial vehicle was utilized to provide aerial targeting information and visual confirmation for the CUSV’s rocket launch. The UAV also conducted battle damage assessments, further enhancing the effectiveness of the joint operation between the U.S. and ROK navies.
The live-fire exercise served as a testing ground for the Poniard weapon system, with the U.S. Navy evaluating its capabilities for potential adoption by the fleet. The high level of accuracy demonstrated during the exercise, with all rockets hitting their intended targets, showcases the precision and reliability of the Poniard system.
International collaboration played a key role in the success of the live-fire exercise, with both the U.S. and ROK navies working together to establish unmanned scenarios and test the capabilities of the CUSV. Lt. Cmdr. VonEiff emphasized the importance of diverse thinking and the exchange of ideas between partner nations to advance capabilities and enhance operational effectiveness.
RIMPAC 2024, the world’s largest international maritime exercise, has brought together 29 nations, 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, more than 150 aircraft, and 25,000 personnel. This exercise provides a unique training opportunity for participants while fostering cooperative relationships critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world’s oceans. RIMPAC, now in its 29th iteration since its inception in 1971, continues to be a cornerstone of international maritime cooperation and readiness.