StockWatch
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Marine Transportation
Project UpdateAug 11, 2026, 10:02 AM

HII Watcher sUSV Prototype Recognized by DIU for Production

AI Summary

HII announced that the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has officially recognized the successful completion of the company’s Production-Ready, Inexpensive, Maritime Expeditionary (PRIME) prototype project. This project features the Watcher small Unmanned Surface Vessel (sUSV), which is based on HII’s ROMULUS-25 and powered by its Odyssey Autonomous Control System. Following successful sea testing of two autonomous Watcher ROMULUS-25 vessels in December 2025, the sUSV is now positioned for a potential transition to production, reinforcing HII's leadership in autonomous maritime systems.

Key Highlights

  • DIU recognized HII's successful completion of the PRIME prototype project for the Watcher sUSV.
  • The Watcher sUSV, based on HII’s ROMULUS-25 and powered by Odyssey ACS, is positioned for production.
  • Two autonomous Watcher ROMULUS-25 vessels were delivered and successfully sea tested in December 2025.
  • The project was developed in partnership with MetalCraft Marine for the U.S. Marine Corps.
  • The Watcher sUSV met technical objectives and is now positioned for potential transition to production.
  • ROMULUS-25 is a high-speed interceptor capable of carrying 1,000 pounds and operating up to 1,000 nautical miles.