Russia establishes council for maritime, other unmanned systems
Image of USV Vizir (GRK 700), which was unveiled at the âArmy 2023' forum outside Moscow. (KMZ)
The Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine (FISU) said in a 24 April update that a new interdepartmental technical council has been created within the Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD), primarily for the development of âunmanned systems and technology of maritime applicationâ. FISU said that the council aims to speed up the development and integration of âmaritime unmanned systemsâ within the armed forces.
According to the press release, the council's activities will include developing the unmanned surface vessel (USV) Katran, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) Skvorets VMF (Voyenno-Morskoy Flot: Russian Navy), and USV Vizir (GRK 700). Additionally, the council will oversee the development of the Hermes communication system for UAVs, as well as Ploshchad and Orbita control systems for operating unmanned vehicles.
Party backing
A post on Russia's ruling United Russia party website on 22 April announced the establishment of the Technical Council for the Development of Maritime Unmanned Systems. The council was created by the Centre for Unmanned Systems and Technologies (CBST). The centre says that it was created in 2024 and âbrings together scientific and engineering teams [and] financial and government agencies in breakthrough projects that increase the country's defence capabilityâ. The council's other backers include the foundation Nasha Pravda (âOur Truth'), as well as the main command of the Russian Navy. The post also referenced the Skvorets VMF UAV, Hermes communication system, and Ploschad and Orbita control systems. There was no mention of the USVs Vizir or Katran. The council, according to the post, will be headed by Commander-in-Chief of the Navy Admiral Aleksandr Moiseyev.
Go beyond the headlines - with direct links to interconnected entities
Get full access to validated equipment, military capabilities, and market insights.
