The Narwhal Star USV is an ocean-going rigid inflatable boat (RIB) that increases the safety of the passengers and crew. Credit: Billy Watkins / Shutterstock.

Star International has launched a new unmanned surface vessel (USV) for shipping operators for piracy threat detection.

The Narwhal Star USV is an ocean-going rigid inflatable boat (RIB) that increases the safety of the passengers and crew.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

It also protects the vessels, cargo and other assets of value on a ship.

The USV is a surveillance platform, which can be controlled with a remote ground control system (GCS), or as a traditional, manually piloted vessel.

It is designed to be deployed from a parent vessel. It can also be launched using a cargo crane or standard davit.

Star International MD Jeff Antley said: “We are very excited to announce the launch of the Narwhal Star USV. The vessel meets a growing demand for ocean-going unmanned surveillance solutions that can identify piracy threats without endangering the crew.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“Our USV solution uses technologies that have been proven in military settings and offers a highly reliable, effective option for shipping operators who are looking for a cost-efficient alternative to fully autonomous or AI-driven drone vessels.”

The technology behind the USV was developed by RIB Narwhal and unmanned control systems expert UTEK.

Star International used its shipping expertise to develop the Narwhal Star USV, which contains payloads designed for observation and reconnaissance needs.

Its features include a maximum combat range of 300nm, a maximum speed of over 50k and marine-grade day and night vision cameras with a range of 35km.

The on-board defensive functions also include flare and smoke cannons, laser dazzle and decoy buoys. It is expected to ensure that the USV is equipped to avoid any enemy ships it may encounter.

Although piracy has declined worldwide in recent years, attacks on commercial ships have resumed in the last 12 months.

In the first three months of this year, the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre reported an increase of 24% in the number of pirate attacks around the world.