The new Autonomous Launch & Recovery System (ALARS) allows medium-sized USV to deploy and recover smaller USV, facilitating unmanned swarming missions.
Maritime Tactical Systems (MARTAC), a provider of Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs), along with Sealartec, a provider of Autonomous Launch & Recovery Systems (ALARS), have unveiled a fully Autonomous Launch & Recovery System, whereby MARTAC’s MANTAS T8 (2.5 m) and T12 (3.6 m) Systems can be autonomously launched and recovered from MARTAC’s Devil Ray T38 (11 m) System. It is widely recognized that the ability to autonomously launch and recover USVs is a critical factor in facilitating swarming missions and harnessing the full potential of unmanned systems in the marine domain. Achieving this in relevant sea conditions with minimal reliance on human intervention, while ensuring speed and repeatability, is essential.
The ALARS capability allows for the autonomous launch and recovery of MARTAC’s USVs in up to sea state four and is deliverable as an add-on system requiring minimal modifications to the Devil Ray USVs. Fully integrated within the Devil Ray main control system, the ALARS operates through Sealartec’s advanced Local Positioning System (LPS), which accurately identifies the MANTAS T12’s position during recovery. This enables precise and efficient capture, followed by automated loading and securing of the MANTAS T12 onto the Devil Ray T38, allowing the Devil Ray T38 to resume its mission at unmatched speeds. The ALARS is flexible with a modifiable cradle allowing for other UxV systems to be launched and recovered from Devil Rays.
Bruce Hanson, MARTAC’s CEO said, “Launching this ALARS takes us a step closer to realizing the ability to deploy and autonomously operate USV fleets capable of performing complex missions over large areas. In general, UxVs represent high value payloads because they expand mission possibilities and endurance. Early when we discussed missions with end-users, we recognized the value in autonomously launching the MANTAS from our Devil Rays as a force multiplier in support of integrated manned and unmanned operations. Combining this ALARS capability with our Advanced AI Autonomy allow us to deploy USVs at scale to perform fully autonomous missions hundred or even thousands of miles away from personnel. It is truly autonomous. This ALARS is available now and MARTAC and Sealartac are building out our capacity to scale for 2025.”
Amitai Peleg, Sealartec’s CEO said, “We are the leader in the ALARS market and this cutting-edge solution underscores Sealartec’s commitment to redefining operational efficiency and autonomy in the maritime domain. As the USV market continues to grow, we see these ALARSs as essential in continued adoption and gaining user trust in USVs.”
