Philippine Navy receives new US-supplied autonomous vehicles

The AUSVs are capable of collecting data above and below the ocean’s surface through a resilient mesh network. The craft are solar-powered, allowing each unit to operate for up to 30 days for improved decision-making at the tactical and operational levels.

"The ability to monitor and respond to maritime challenges—illegal fishing, gray zone activities, and threats to freedom of navigation—requires persistent, long-endurance awareness that no single ship or aircraft can provide alone," said US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Bridgette Walker. "The [AUSV] fills that gap by expanding the capabilities of the Philippine Navy into critical waterways."