Blue Water Autonomy Unveils New Navy Vessel
Boston-based Blue Water Autonomy has announced the launch of its first vessel, the Liberty class, a 190-foot steel autonomous ship designed specifically for the U.S. Navy. With a remarkable range of over 10,000 nautical miles and a payload capacity exceeding 150 metric tons, this innovative vessel is set to begin construction at Conrad Shipyard in Morgan City, Louisiana, in March 2026. The Navy is accelerating its plans for uncrewed surface vessels, influenced by recent military developments in Ukraine and the growing capabilities of rival nations.
Design and Capabilities of the Liberty Class
The Liberty class vessel is built on Damen Shipyards Group’s Stan Patrol 6009 hull design, featuring the distinctive “Axe Bow,” which enhances its ability to slice through waves. This design has been successfully utilized in over 300 vessels worldwide. Rylan Hamilton, CEO of Blue Water Autonomy, emphasized that the Liberty class is engineered for long-duration operations and rapid production, allowing the Navy to meet its urgent needs for autonomous ships. The vessel’s internal systems have been re-engineered for autonomous operation, enabling automated control and fault management with minimal human intervention during extended deployments.
The Liberty class is versatile, supporting various missions, including missile deployment, sensor operations, and logistics payloads. Mark Honders, design and license manager at Damen, highlighted the adaptability of the Axe Bow hull for new maritime missions, showcasing how proven commercial designs can be repurposed for modern military needs. Blue Water Autonomy has financed the development of the Liberty class entirely through private capital and aims to produce between 10 to 20 vessels annually after the first one is delivered.
Blue Water Autonomy Launches Revolutionary Liberty Class Vessel
Construction and Production Plans
Conrad Shipyard, known for its extensive experience in building complex vessels for both commercial and government clients, will oversee the construction of the Liberty class. Cecil Hernandez, president and CEO of Conrad Shipyard, expressed confidence in their ability to support serial production, translating advanced vessel designs into operational capacity. With five shipyards and a workforce of 1,100, Conrad Shipyard is well-equipped to produce over 30 ships annually, including those designed by Damen.
The name “Liberty class” pays homage to the Liberty Ships of World War II, which were produced rapidly to meet wartime demands. As the U.S. Navy continues to adapt to modern warfare challenges, the introduction of the Liberty class vessel marks a significant step towards enhancing its maritime capabilities with advanced autonomous technology.
