Published
Jul 29, 2022 6:21 PM by
The Maritime Executive Committee
The Royal Navy has acquired a modified commercial crew boat to be used as a test bed for future technologies, including autonomous systems.
The service ordered a 42-metre Damen 4008 Fast Crew Supplier last year, which has been fitted to Royal Navy specification and delivered within 12 months. Patrick Blackett’s new XV “Experimental Ship” will conduct sea trials for the Royal Navy’s experimentation and research and development, NavyX. Giving the department its own ship will allow it to accelerate its program without burdening combat ships.
