Power Engineering & Manufacturing (PEM) is pleased to share the latest progress of the USX-1 Defiant unmanned surface vessel program.

Recent public reports indicate that the Defiant has successfully completed significant autonomous open-ocean operations and continues to accumulate valuable real-world operating time. After returning ashore over the winter for engineering updates to enhance system robustness, the vessel is back in the water and currently undergoing final acceptance trials focused on autonomy, navigation, and machinery control systems.

The article, “NOMARS Programme, US” publicly identifies PEM as a contractor on the program and confirms our role in designing and manufacturing the prototype gearboxes for the vessel’s propulsion system. We are proud to contribute to a program that is helping advance autonomous maritime technology.

The latest updates also highlight continued development of the Defiant’s onboard power, control, and autonomy systems, reinforcing that the platform remains an active and evolving program—not simply a completed prototype milestone. As testing and development continue, PEM remains committed to supporting innovative engineering solutions for advanced marine and industrial applications.