The DARPA NOMARS program recently achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of an at-sea refueling test for its Defiant unmanned surface vessel (USV). This demonstration marks a crucial step towards enabling long-duration autonomous operations for unmanned naval vessels. The test was conducted by the US Navy’s PMS-406 and USV Squadron 1, utilizing two experimental USVs, Ranger and Mariner. This successful refueling operation showcases the advancements in autonomous technologies and their potential to revolutionize naval warfare, according to Assafinonline.
Fueling USVs
Current methods of fueling unmanned surface vessels (USVs) at sea require personnel to be present on the USV, which presents significant challenges. These challenges include ensuring the safety of personnel during refueling operations in potentially hazardous conditions, and the need to design USVs with safety considerations for onboard personnel.
The NOMARS FAS approach addresses these challenges by eliminating the need for personnel on the USV during refueling. This approach closely mirrors existing refueling procedures familiar to the Military Sealift Command (MSC) crew, minimizing the learning curve for refueling personnel.
To ensure the effectiveness and safety of the NOMARS FAS system, DARPA has collaborated closely with the MSC’s Taluga Group throughout the program to provide valuable input on system development and refueling procedures.
Mini Station
During the recent test, the USV Ranger carried a representative receiving station, while the USV Mariner carried a custom-designed refueling “mini-station.” Although personnel were present on both vessels, the refueling operation itself was conducted remotely, demonstrating the key feature of the NOMARS FAS system.
The test successfully demonstrated all aspects of the refueling procedure, including lead line passing, probe connection, and fuel transfer. This successful on-water test was made possible through the valuable support and collaboration of the Navy’s PMS-406 and USVRON-1.
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Source: Assafinonline
