The UK Ministry of Defence has moved forward with plans to introduce uncrewed surface vessels as part of efforts to modernize the Royal Navy. The ministry awarded a 12.3-million-pound contract to Kraken Technology Group to supply 20 unmanned boats under Project Beehive. These vessels will be used to support the navy’s concept of a hybrid fleet combining crewed ships with autonomous systems. Each vessel has been designed using a Modular Open Systems Architecture, allowing upgrades and technology integration in the future. The boats will initially be operated by the Coastal Forces Squadron and 47 Commando to support experimentation, training, and tactical development. These activities will help the navy develop new operational concepts and determine how unmanned systems can support maritime warfare. The hybrid fleet concept was outlined in 2025 by Gwyn Jenkins. Plans include deploying both crewed and autonomous systems from aircraft carriers. The Royal Navy also intends to introduce a jet-powered carrier-launched drone capable of operating alongside the F-35B fighter aircraft by 2026. Trials of unmanned maritime systems have already been conducted. In October 2025, remotely operated Rattler boats successfully escorted Royal Navy vessels during a 72-hour trial near Scotland, demonstrating the potential for autonomous platforms to support fleet operations.
