The United States has strengthened its modernization strategy by contracting the British company Kraken to develop new naval drones.
Valued at $49 million, the agreement includes the creation of prototypes for surface and underwater vehicles with low visual, thermal, acoustic, and radar signatures. The equipment is expected to enhance the U.S. capability to conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions in complex coastal areas.
During recent exercises, Kraken showcased the K4 Manta, a drone capable of operating above and below water, carrying up to 5 tons of payload and remaining on mission for up to ten days. The company also demonstrated the K3 Scout model, which has already been approved in NATO tests in the Baltic Sea, indicating technological maturity and rapid adaptability to Western military requirements.
Kraken’s expansion includes new agreements in Europe, such as its joint venture with the German group NVL, as well as following the trend of countries like Ukraine and Greece, which have started producing maritime drones jointly. The growing adoption of these platforms confirms the global race for autonomous systems capable of operating in increasingly contested maritime environments.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: LinkedIn – Kraken Technology Group | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
