Overview
- The Navy canceled its Modular Attack Surface Craft program and shifted to a marketplace that picks from ready-made or in-build medium unmanned surface vessels.
- New solicitation tweaks include a push for longer range after wargames showed the 2,500-nautical-mile MASC concept could not survive long enough to use its 16 missiles.
- Officials say the marketplace will favor proven tech over bespoke prototypes to speed selection and let multiple configurations compete based on mission needs.
- Companies say the shift raises upfront costs because bidders must show an autonomous boat that can pass performance tests like collision avoidance and docking.
- To keep a wide field of bidders, the Navy says it is working with investors, points vendors to the Office of Strategic Capital, and welcomes entries from startups and major shipyards.