Fleet 2026 – ELVO, Kolskava Verf and Kola Shipyard unveil two new high-speed USV

The ELVO Research and Production Enterprise (RPE) from St. Petersburg and Murmansk-based Kolskaya Verf presented the Vector autonomous, high-speed, multipurpose unmanned surface vehicle (USV) and high-speed USV with variable hydrofoils at the Fleet-2026 International Maritime Defense Show (IMDS) in Kronstadt

It can be assumed that the steady trend toward developing various types of USVs was shaped in Russia by the lessons of the war in Ukraine, as kamikaze-type attack USVs have proven to be highly effective in conducting asymmetric warfare in maritime waters.

As explained to EDR On-Line at the ELVO booth, the Vector USV is designed for regular cargo transportation, technical monitoring, and payload handling without a crew on board. It can also be used as a carrier for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), for transport missions, and for swarm combat operations deploying tactical groups of unmanned boats. For this purpose, it can be equipped with monitoring tools, specialized sensors and equipment. A spherical optoelectronic gimbal is installed in the bow of the vehicle. The antenna and communications equipment are located astern, along with an outboard motor. Autonomous navigation, object recognition, and situational awareness are supported using artificial intelligence technology.

The Vector USV features a modular architecture that allows a single hull to accommodate various modules. This allows for the platform to be quickly adapted to a specific tactical scenario without developing a new boat.

Specifically, the USV can be used as a drone port with a 1 x 1 metre platform for UAV takeoff and landing, as well as for the delivery of various cargo weighing up to 500 kg. For swarm operations, centralized control, task distribution, and continuous telemetry transmission are supported. The boat can be transported in a standard 20-foot container.

According to information presented at the booth, the Vector USV is 11 metres long and less than 2.3 metres high (excluding masts and antennas). The vehicle autonomy corresponds to AL4 level. The boat can be controlled by an operator connected to the control circuit.

The Vector USV is available in several variants, with different type of propulsion. The first variant is equipped with a 40-60 kW electric motor, the second with a hybrid powerpack, and the third with an internal combustion engine and outboard motor producing 90-115 hp. The range of the three versions is approximately 25, over 100, and up to 150 nautical miles, respectively. The USV can operate in sea states up to 1.8 metres wave and wind speeds up to 12 m/s. Stabilization of the UAV carrier is ensured in sea states up to 0.5 metres.

The second system exhibited at Fleet-2026 was the Hydrofoil USV; developed by the Kola Shipyard, it is a high-speed platform for transport and patrol missions. Optimized for rapid transit, it boasts high seaworthiness and can be used as a small vessel.

The Hydrofoil USV has a maximum speed of 48 knots (approximately 90 km/h) and a payload capacity of 1,300 kg. It can operate at sea in waves up to 2 metres high.

In calm waters, the foil extends, reducing hydrodynamic drag, allowing the boat to reach its maximum speed. In rough waters, shallow waters, and when moored, the foil retracts, allowing the USV to move at low speeds.

The Hydrofoil USV is based on a hydrofoil boat developed by the Kola Shipyard, which also boasts a speed of 48 knots and a payload capacity of 1,300 kg. The boat can carry up to 10 people, and its hull is made of aluminium alloy. It can be used for transport and patrol missions. The boat is 11.3 metres long, 3.6 metres wide, and has a mass of 3,500 kg. It is equipped with a 450 hp engine.

Photos by N. Morris