The U.S. Navy recently achieved a significant milestone in its military operations, as an unmanned vessel fired “lethal munitions” in international waters within the Middle East. This groundbreaking exercise, known as “Digital Talon,” was conducted by the Navy’s Task Force 59, a specialized team focusing on unmanned and artificial intelligence technologies, as reported by the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command. This event, which took place on October 23, 2023, marked the first time such an exercise occurred in the Middle East region.
Digital Talon: A Milestone in Unmanned Warfare
Task Force 59, entrusted with exploring unmanned and AI capabilities, executed Digital Talon. During this exercise, task force members identified and targeted simulated hostile forces using a concept called “manned-unmanned teaming.” The operation involved launching live munitions from an unmanned vessel to neutralize a target boat. Remarkably, the system achieved “direct hits each time,” as stated in the official news release. It’s essential to note that a human operator onshore oversaw the engagement decisions throughout the operation.
A Visual Insight into the Operation
A video shared by the Navy provided a glimpse into this cutting-edge operation. It featured an unmanned boat, equipped with two outboard motors, swiftly navigating the waters. The footage also showcased naval operators monitoring the process remotely. Once the target was acquired, a missile was launched from what the Navy referred to as a “Lethal Miniature Aerial Missile System” located at the rear of the unmanned boat. The video further captured the moment of impact, underscoring the operation’s success.
Advancing Unmanned Systems and Maritime Security
Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, in response to this achievement, emphasized the Navy’s focus on applying new unmanned systems and AI technologies in practical military operations. He remarked, “We are focused on the operational application of new, cutting-edge unmanned systems and artificial intelligence technologies.” According to Vice Adm. Cooper, this exercise marked a significant advancement, taking capabilities to the “next level.” It extended beyond the traditional focus of maritime domain awareness, demonstrating that unmanned platforms can enhance fleet lethality. Cooper highlighted that this development contributes to strengthening regional maritime security and enhancing deterrence against malign activities.
Continued Success in Unmanned Operations
This event in the Middle East followed another successful demonstration of similar capabilities by the U.S. Navy. In September, unmanned aquatic and aerial vehicles tracked Iranian Navy and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy ships and small boats over multiple days during their routine patrols in and around the Strait of Hormuz. This operation integrated “12 different unmanned platforms” with manned ships, showcasing the Navy’s commitment to advancing unmanned technologies.
