BlackSea Technologies Unveils Revolutionary Modular Attack Surface Craft for the U.S. Navy
In a significant advancement for naval warfare, BlackSea Technologies has introduced the Modular Attack Surface Craft (MASC), a 66-foot unmanned surface vessel (USV) designed to transform the operational capabilities of the U.S. Navy. Launched in September 2025, this innovative craft is poised to meet the Navy’s evolving demands for modular, multi-mission vessels capable of executing a variety of tasks, from anti-submarine warfare to logistics.
A New Era in Naval Operations
The U.S. Navy’s request for proposal (RFP) in July 2025 highlighted the need for a new class of ships that could operate autonomously while remaining agile and versatile. BlackSea Technologies, based in Baltimore, responded with MASC, which features a 900-square-foot open deck capable of carrying up to 30 tons of payload. This design allows for rapid mission reconfiguration, enabling the vessel to adapt to different operational requirements seamlessly.
The MASC’s versatility is underpinned by a robust electrical system that generates 198 kilowatts, significantly more than comparable autonomous vessels. This power enables the craft to perform a range of functions, from launching missile systems to deploying advanced sensors. The propulsion system, powered by two Volvo Penta D8-IPS600 units, allows MASC to reach speeds of 25 knots (approximately 29 mph) and cover distances of up to 3,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 10 knots. For extended missions, the vessel can travel up to 10,000 nautical miles, making it capable of crossing oceans.
Design and Engineering Excellence
The MASC’s twin-hull catamaran design, constructed from marine-grade aluminum, ensures durability and efficiency. This design not only enhances the vessel’s ability to navigate rough seas but also secures its payloads during operations. The craft’s engineering reflects a commitment to resilience and adaptability, essential traits for modern naval engagements.
What sets MASC apart is its foundation in BlackSea’s Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC). Sharing 75% of its components with GARC, MASC benefits from an established production line that can deliver one craft per day. This existing infrastructure allows BlackSea to avoid the delays and costs associated with developing a new prototype from scratch. The company asserts that it can deliver a fully integrated MASC within six months, ensuring that the Navy can quickly scale its capabilities to meet emerging threats.
Integration with Navy’s Autonomy Framework
MASC is built on the Navy’s Unmanned Maritime Autonomy Architecture (UMAA), a standardized system designed for plug-and-play integration of various technologies. This open architecture allows the Navy to upgrade or replace systems as advancements occur, ensuring that MASC remains at the forefront of technological innovation.
The vessel comes equipped with seven predefined missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, electronic warfare, intelligence and surveillance, logistics, infrastructure monitoring, and mine countermeasures. Each mission can be customized by adding specific containerized modules, allowing MASC to function as a versatile platform capable of adapting to diverse operational scenarios.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The introduction of MASC marks a pivotal moment in naval history, reminiscent of the transition from traditional manned vessels to the incorporation of unmanned systems in military operations. The evolution of naval warfare has seen a gradual shift towards automation and remote operations, driven by advancements in technology and the need for increased operational efficiency.
Historically, the U.S. Navy has relied on large, manned vessels to project power and maintain maritime security. However, the changing nature of warfare, characterized by asymmetric threats and the rise of advanced technologies, necessitates a reevaluation of traditional naval strategies. MASC represents a forward-thinking approach to these challenges, offering a flexible and cost-effective solution to modern naval operations.
Strategic Advantages
The strategic advantages of deploying MASC are manifold. Its unmanned nature reduces the risk to personnel while allowing for persistent surveillance and engagement capabilities. The ability to rapidly reconfigure missions enhances operational flexibility, enabling the Navy to respond swiftly to emerging threats or changing mission parameters.
Moreover, the integration of advanced sensors and autonomous systems positions MASC as a critical asset in the Navy’s arsenal. As geopolitical tensions continue to rise, the need for innovative solutions to maintain maritime dominance becomes increasingly urgent. MASC’s capabilities could play a vital role in ensuring the U.S. Navy remains prepared for a wide range of scenarios, from conventional warfare to counter-terrorism operations.
Conclusion
BlackSea Technologies’ Modular Attack Surface Craft represents a significant leap forward in naval technology, aligning with the U.S. Navy’s strategic vision for the future of maritime operations. With its modular design, advanced capabilities, and rapid production timeline, MASC is set to redefine how the Navy approaches a variety of missions. As the landscape of naval warfare continues to evolve, innovations like MASC will be crucial in maintaining operational superiority and ensuring national security in an increasingly complex world.
