The notice, published on 5 August, is a UK1 pipeline notice, which advertises a potential future contract rather than opening a competition. No tender has been issued and no supplier has been selected, with a tender notice estimated for 30 November 2026. Setting out the requirement, the notice states that “DCTO is looking to procure a multi-role Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) testbed, for the purpose of technology demonstration which can be delivered by the end of FY26/27.” The notice says the vessel is expected to conduct “standalone uncrewed operations from a shore-based Remote Operating Centre (ROC)”, “integrated operations alongside a mothership (e.g. The plan is part of a push into maritime autonomy, the Defence Investment Plan set out an intention to field uncrewed platforms in numbers alongside crewed warships, including designated Type 91 uncrewed missile platforms, Type 92 uncrewed underwater sensing platforms, Type 93 extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicles and Type 94 uncrewed sensor platforms, working with the planned Common Combat Vessel and existing frigates.