UMEX 2026 – Naval Group and Sirehna present a modern development concept for the Seaquest S multipurpose USV

At UMEX 2026, Naval Group and Sirehna (a subsidiary of Naval Group) presented the concept of the Seaquest S multipurpose, multimodule unmanned surface vehicle (USV)

The Seaquest S USV was first unveiled at the Euronaval 2024 maritime exhibition in Paris and has since been refined based on operational experience and use during French naval exercises

Naval Group specialists are closely studying the combat experience of Ukrainian USVs in the Black Sea during the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, where unmanned surface vehicles are being used in large numbers and with significant results. As Naval Group explained to EDR On-Line the Seaquest S basic platform retains its core characteristics, while the forward hull can accommodate various modules, including weapons modules.

The fuel tank has a capacity of 460 liters. The endurance is 220 nautical miles and can be extended to 530 nm. The vehicle can be launched and recovered automatically up to Sea State 3.

As EDR On-Line previously reported, the Seaquest S is 9.3 meters long, 2.9 meters wide, and weighs less than 6 tons. The hull is constructed entirely of composite materials. Thanks to a 475-horsepower engine coupled to a waterjet propulsion system, the vessel can reach a maximum speed of 35 knots, which, of course, decreases with increasing sea state, as the vehicle can sail up to Sea State 5.

Representatives of Naval Group demonstrated to EDR On-Line the options for equipping the Seaquest S USV with various removable weapon modules. A navalized multiple launched rocket system (MLRS) can be installed onthe bow, which can be used for amphibious operations or attacks on coastal defenses.

A module with two torpedoes can be installed on the bow, and launched against surface or underwater targets. It should be noted that any potential weapon system can be located in the submarine’s bow modular area, but the weapons must be mounted at an angle to prevent damage to the boat from a reverse shock wave.

For anti-submarine operations, a container-type module capable of launching six sonobuoys can be installed on the bow of the USV. Overall, the Seaquest S multi-purpose, multi-module combat unmanned surface vessel concept presented by Naval Group meets current trends in the development of unmanned surface vessels, and takes into account the experience of their combat use, ensuring operational transformation to solve specific combat missions.

Photos by N. Novichkov