No crew required: Christening held for autonomous ship prototype in Everett

In a groundbreaking ceremony on August 11, 2025, the USX-1 Defiant, an autonomous naval ship prototype, was officially christened at Everett Ship Repair. The event drew over 100 attendees, including politicians, naval officials, and executives from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). The ship, built by Nichols Brothers Boat Builders, is set to revolutionize naval operations with its ability to operate without a human crew.

A Milestone in Autonomous Technology

The USX-1 Defiant, measuring 80 feet long and weighing 240 tons, represents a significant advancement in naval technology. Its christening was marked by a celebratory bottle-smashing by Mattie Hanley, the wife of DARPA Director Stephen Winchell. Since its completion in February, the ship has been undergoing rigorous testing in the Puget Sound, paving the way for its future missions across global waters.

Tom Watson, CEO of Serco, the contractor responsible for the vessel’s development, emphasized the ship’s unique design, stating, “From its very inception, we eliminated the design consideration for a human crew.” The USX-1 is engineered to navigate autonomously, avoid obstacles, and execute various missions without human intervention. Notably, it lacks traditional features such as a bridge or living quarters, focusing entirely on its operational capabilities.

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The ship’s design allows for easy manufacturing using commercial components, which could benefit shipyards throughout the United States. Gregory Avicola, the project manager for the Defiant, noted that this ship could be the first of many, potentially revitalizing the shipbuilding industry.

Future Implications for the Navy

While the USX-1 Defiant currently does not carry military hardware, concept models have been developed that include advanced weaponry systems. U.S. Navy Cmdr. Timothy Boston remarked that this ship marks the beginning of a new era for the Navy, enhancing its competitive edge in maritime operations. The Defiant is designed to operate for extended periods, even autonomously refueling, which could transform naval strategies and capabilities.

As the USX-1 prepares for its next phase of testing, it symbolizes a significant leap forward in naval technology, promising to reshape the future of maritime defense. The successful christening of the USX-1 Defiant not only highlights advancements in autonomous vessels but also sets the stage for a new chapter in naval warfare and operations.