US Navy's New Autonomous Ships Are Designed To Be Built At Rapid Speed
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By Jonathan H. Kantor
Published on March 17, 2026.
The US Navy is introducing the Liberty Class, a medium-sized uncrewed surface vessels that can operate for up to three months and cross the Pacific Ocean completely independently. The ships could be used to deliver medical, food, or other supplies, including weapons and ammunition. The company developed the ships using the Damen Stan Patrol 6009 hull as its template, which improves stability in rough seas. Each vessel measures 190 feet in length with a beam of 30 feet, displacing around 850 tons, can sail for 11,500 miles while carrying four standard 40-foot cargo containers. The Liberty Class ships are designed to be built and employed at a rapid speed, using robotic assembly systems and production processes. Blue Water is constructing these ships at Conrad Shipyard in Morgan City, Louisiana, where the production line employs robotic assembly system. The first vessel in the product line began in March 2026, and if successful, it is expected to soon see Liberty Class vessels operating globally.
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