Russia has announced plans to establish a dedicated unmanned naval fleet, as developers of the fibre-optic-guided KVN drone begin combat testing of the Scarlopa (Shell) unmanned surface vessel (USV).
According to available details, multiple operational scenarios have been defined for the unmanned boat, ranging from logistical transport to the execution of combat missions. Mass production of USV hulls has already commenced, covering a wide range of variants, including kamikaze boats, drone carrier vessels, maritime transport platforms, and floating training craft.
The project envisions the creation of a scalable, uncrewed maritime force capable of conducting diverse missions, from supply and support roles to direct combat operations. A central pillar of the concept is affordability and widespread availability, with the Scarlopa designed as a low-cost platform that can be rapidly produced and, when required, employed as an expendable attack vessel.
