General Dynamics’ small surface vessel prototype could revolutionize naval warfare
The Ghost’s SWATH design enables it to carry larger payloads and be deployed in ISTAR, missile transport and special operations.
A merican aerospace and defense company General Dynamics has partnered with UK-based Juliet Marine Systems to develop a small surface vessel dubbed ‘Ghost’. The vessel features Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull (SWATH) design that reportedly has the potential to revolutionize naval warfare.
The prototype of the vessel—which is currently undergoing tests—is versatile, stable and equipped to be deployed on manned, unmanned and remote-controlled operations. According to General Dynamics, the vessel boasts of a large payload capacity and innovative sea-keeping abilities. Its SWATH design enables the vessel to carry payloads in challenging sea states, typically not possible on other small surface vessels.
Stable speeds and compact size
The ‘Ghost’ is designed for quick deployment and easy construction, allowing it to be used in varying environments. Small vessels like the ‘Ghost’ are stable at speeds of up to 40.3 mph, making them extremely fast on the water, Slashgear reported.
Due to its compact size, the ‘Ghost’ can be deployed by amphibious and cargo ships, trucks or can even be dropped from airplanes, making it a highly versatile asset for the US Navy.