Textron Systems Corporation, a Textron Inc. company, announced that the U.S. Navy’s Unmanned Influence Sweep System (UISS) Program, which is based on its Common Unmanned Surface Vehicle (CUSV), has achieved a Milestone C decision. The decision allows the program to enter low-rate initial production (LRIP), with the Navy planning to award three UISS systems to Textron Systems under their existing contract.
“The Textron and U.S. Navy teams have worked diligently to reach this Milestone C decision,” said Wayne Prender, Senior Vice President, Applied Technologies & Advanced Programs. “We recognize the time on the water and dedication of the testing teams which enabled us to enter this phase of the program.”
UISS is the Navy’s first unmanned surface vehicle (USV) program of record, designed for the demanding maritime environment. It provides unmanned mine counter measure and capabilities using interchangeable payloads and advanced sensors.
UISS completed Navy developmental test and operational assessment in November. The UISS is the first in the Navy’s USV portfolio to reach this milestone. UISS is part of a comprehensive Mine Counter Measure Unmanned Surface Vehicle (MCM USV) mission and is designed to be deployed from the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) and vessels of opportunity.
Textron Systems is the prime contractor and system integrator for the UISS and MCM USV programs. The company designed CUSV as a multi-mission unmanned surface vehicle, capability of carrying multiple payloads including side-scan sonar, mine neutralization, non-lethal weapons, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) sensors. Production will be completed at Textron’s Hunt Valley, Md. and New Orleans locations.
Textron Systems is a world leader in unmanned air, surface and land products, services and support for aerospace and defense customers. Harnessing agility and a broad base of expertise, Textron Systems’ innovative businesses design, manufacture, field and support comprehensive solutions that expand customer capabilities and deliver value.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Hawker, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Arctic Cat, Textron Systems, and TRU Simulation + Training.
