Unveiling Southern Spear: Cutting-Edge Advances in Robotic and Autonomous Systems Deployment

MAYPORT, Fla. – U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet is set to enhance its operational capabilities through the upcoming Operation Southern Spear. The initiative begins later this month in the U.S. Southern Command Area of Responsibility (USSOUTHCOM AOR) and at Naval Station Mayport.

Commander Foster Edwards, 4th Fleet’s Hybrid Fleet Director, emphasized the operation’s innovative use of Robotic and Autonomous Systems (RAS). Edwards stated that the goal is to shift from short-term trials to long-term implementations, aiming for better integration of RAS in maritime contexts.

Operation Southern Spear will see the deployment of various unmanned systems, including robotic surface vessels and small robotic interceptor boats. These systems will be integrated with U.S. Coast Guard cutters and operation centers to enhance maritime domain awareness and counter illicit trafficking.

The operation aligns with the Navy’s Project 33, focusing on RAS to strengthen presence and sovereignty in strategic maritime regions. Rear Adm. Carlos Sardiello, Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. Fourth Fleet, highlighted the significant collaborative potential of these operations in the region.

The U.S. 4th Fleet aims to reinforce partnerships with maritime forces across the Caribbean, Central, and South America, seeking to promote unity, security, and stability in these regions. The results of Southern Spear are anticipated to inform future combinations of unmanned and manned maritime efforts.