US Navy conducts first live-fire SINKEX with GARC uncrewed surface vessel

The US Navy conducted its first live-fire training exercise using the Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC) uncrewed surface vessel during RIMPAC, demonstrating a tactical sUSV engaging a target ship in a SINKEX event. The GARC’s modular payloads, autonomy, long range, and potential for swarm control indicate a move toward operationalizing armed/kinetic roles for small USVs beyond experimentation.