Exploring uncharted seas with the GARC: Weapon of the Week
This week’s weapon of the week is making waves — literally. BlackSea Technologies has introduced a new entry into the growing field of unmanned surface vessels (USVs): the Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft, or GARC.
What is the GARC?
The GARC is a 16-foot-long unmanned surface vessel (USV) with an eight-foot beam. The machine can carry a 1,000-pound payload and runs on a 200-horsepower diesel engine. With a cruising speed of 18 knots and a top speed of 40 knots, it can travel more than 600 nautical miles without refueling.
“It can be controlled with a handheld device or remotely via Starlink or Starshield,” Jason Lamb, chief strategy officer at BlackSea Technologies, said. “It also supports autonomous operation, including collaborative mission autonomy.”
The vessel’s design emphasizes flexibility. Operators can remove the center panel to create an open bay, allowing for rapid integration of mission-specific payloads. This modular approach supports a wide range of capabilities, from dipping sonars and munitions to gyro-stabilized weapon systems.
BlackSea Technologies built the GARC with the Indo-Pacific region in mind. The company focuses on delivering relevant capabilities for contested logistics and maritime security in littoral environments. The GARC’s compact size and adaptability make it ideal for operations in tight coastal waters.
“Our business is focused on creating relevant capabilities for INDOPACOM,” Lamb said.
The company’s customer base includes the U.S. Navy and special operations forces. Lamb, a former Navy SEAL, emphasized the importance of returning to Special Operations Forces Week to collaborate with partners and showcase new technologies.
What else has the company made?
BlackSea’s innovation extends beyond surface vessels. The company developed the Towed Airborne Lift of Naval Systems (TALONS), which can elevate payloads to high altitudes for extended communications and surveillance. A smaller version of TALONS, designed for the GARC, can lift 50 pounds to 500 feet.
The company has also expanded into the unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) space. The company specifically designed its fleet of motherships to operate uncrewed systems across air, surface and subsurface domains. These vessels support both contractor-owned and government-operated models.
“We’re proud to support the Navy’s newest unmanned surface vessel squadrons, USV Squadron 3 and 7, with our GARC platform,” Lamb said.
With its modular design, long-range capability and multi-domain integration, the GARC is positioned to play a key role in the future of autonomous maritime operations. BlackSea Technologies continues to push the boundaries of what unmanned systems can achieve in modern naval warfare.
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Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
