Fairbanks Morse Defense (FMD) has unveiled AutoHook, a fully autonomous boat recovery interface developed by FMD’s Norwegian company, Vestdavit.
In a press release published by the Naval News website, FMD explained that AutoHook is a key capability in establishing a new standard for a fully autonomous Launch and Recovery System (LARS), supporting Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) and other assets that do not require human intervention.
Developed by Vestdavit, AutoHook addresses the previously unmet need for autonomy during complex and high-risk launch and recovery operations. While current autonomous solutions are unable to meet operational demands beyond Sea State 2, AutoHook has successfully achieved operational acceptance in Sea State 4.
“The global shift toward distributed maritime operations depends on unmanned systems that perform in real-world conditions and integrate seamlessly across allied fleets,” explained Rolf Andreas Wigand, CEO of Vestdavit.
“AutoHook not only supports fleet modernization, but also breaks through the Sea State 2 ceiling that has long constrained manual launch and recovery.”
“By delivering advanced launch and recovery solutions built specifically for the operational demands of the U.S. fleet, we are helping ensure that American forces, and those of our allies, have the reliable and scalable capability they need to operate effectively today and in the decades ahead,” Wigand added.
Demonstrations of AutoHook will take place at the 2026 Sea Air Space Expo, from April 19 to 22, in National Harbor, Maryland (USA).
Photo: FMD. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
