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Uncrewed and over 1,000 tons, new warship targets future naval operations

Published on 25/05/2026 at 12:35
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LASV75 concept was presented by Navantia UK in Farnborough with a 75-meter modular hull, over 1,000 tons, autonomous operation, and focus on surveillance missions, escort, electronic warfare, and support for hybrid fleets.

Navantia UK presented the LASV75, a 75-meter and over 1,000-ton unmanned warship concept, during the Combined Naval Event in Farnborough, to support future hybrid fleets with autonomy, software, and modular payloads.

Warship bets on autonomy and unmanned missions

The project was developed in the United Kingdom by the Navantia team based in Bristol. The proposal is to operate independently or integrated with larger naval groups, alongside manned ships, autonomous escorts, drones, and other unmanned systems.

With a 246-foot modular hull, equivalent to 75 meters, the LASV75 is conceived as an unmanned platform from the outset. The absence of accommodations and human support systems frees up space for sensors, mission payloads, and greater operational endurance.

The vessel was designed for functions such as surveillance, escort, electronic warfare, and operations related to attacks, depending on the chosen configuration. The model displayed showed a configurable cargo deck, modular sensor arrangements, and interchangeable masts.

Modularity seeks rapid adaptation at sea

Navantia UK states that persistence, modularity, and scalability guided the development of the concept, especially for demanding environments such as the North Atlantic. At CNE 2026, Simon Jones, director of product development, advocated for a vessel of this size for long operations in adverse maritime conditions.

The company is also evaluating mission packages in NavyPOD containers and NATO Standard interfaces, aiming to expand interoperability with allied navies. The modular architecture would allow versions focused on sensors, operational systems, or mixed functions.

This approach seeks to simplify manufacturing and accelerate adaptations according to each mission. Instead of relying on a fixed configuration, the warship could receive different payload arrangements, according to operational needs.

Concept accompanies industrial expansion in the United Kingdom

The LASV75 appears amid Navantia UK’s expansion following the acquisition of Harland & Wolff’s assets. The company is working on modernizing four British shipyards, located in Appledore, Arnish, Belfast, and Methil.

The announced investment is £157 million, aimed at digital shipbuilding tools, automation, and advanced manufacturing infrastructure. The company’s expectation is to reduce project and construction timelines for large naval vessels by up to 30%.

The initial production of autonomous ships would likely begin in Appledore, Devon, a shipyard capable of accommodating vessels up to 120 meters, and increase flexibility in long-duration missions.

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Fabio Lucas Carvalho

Journalist specializing in a wide variety of topics, such as cars, technology, politics, naval industry, geopolitics, renewable energy, and economics. Active since 2015, with prominent publications on major news portals. My background in Information Technology Management from Faculdade de Petrolina (Facape) adds a unique technical perspective to my analyses and reports. With over 10,000 articles published in renowned outlets, I always aim to provide detailed information and relevant insights for the reader.

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