The Ministry of Defence has recently provided updates on three key unmanned maritime initiatives – the Wasp and Snapper systems, as well as Project COOKSON – which are being developed to support Ukrainian operations, according to a press release.
In response to questions from James Cartlidge MP (Conservative – South Suffolk), Parliamentary Under-Secretary Luke Pollard explained that both the Wasp and Snapper systems are new uncrewed maritime platforms currently undergoing final testing.
Both Snapper and Wasp are described as initiatives designed to bolster defence efforts in Ukraine, though further information on the scope and operational plans remains pending.
He stated, “We are unable to provide further details on the timings for minimum deployable capability at this time for operational security reasons,” noting that the responsibility for employing these systems rests with the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Meanwhile, additional clarification was provided on Project COOKSON, which is in the early stages of development. Defence Minister Maria Eagle confirmed that there is no firm target date for its deployment, adding, “We are engaging with industry partners to understand what new capabilities may exist that would support our concept for a small, fast attack vessel equipped with modular payloads and capable of operating in challenging environments.”
Eagle also explained that an industry Challenge Session was held in January, and a competitive procurement process is planned to launch in early 2025, with demonstrations expected in late 2025 or early 2026.
Together, these developments underscore the MOD’s commitment to advancing unmanned maritime technology and maintaining a robust operational capability in support of Ukraine. While detailed deployment timelines remain classified for security reasons, the progress on both systems and Project COOKSON signals a strategic push to enhance maritime warfare and modernise defence assets.
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Are you going to do an article on Gravehawk now that images are out?
Seems to be two R73 IR AAMs in a container along with E/O sights and operator desks.
The fact that it’s got no radar makes Gravehawk a nasty little ambush predator.
They designed a shipping container on a flatbed truck.
Considering the missiles being ground launched won’t have the legs to hit an aircraft and IR targeting isnt fast enough to target a missile, these are designed for counter drone capability. Additionally only 2 missiles. Useful for sure, but not massively so, when you have Russia launching drone waves of hundreds of drones.
Short version of this article is “no progress, still at project name phase”. A non story.
Spot on.
Could have asked me first!
Project Cookson!