Textron to Develop Mine Detection System for U.S. Navy's Unmanned Vessels

The U.S. Navy awarded Textron Systems an initial contract worth $20.8 million to develop next generation mine sweep system for use on board the Common Unmanned Surface Vessel (CUSV) platform.

Designated as the Magnetic and Acoustic Generation Next Unmanned Superconducting Sweep (MAGNUSS), this system supports the Office of Naval Research (ONR), and the U.S. Navy’s transition from traditional legacy towed mine-sweep systems.

As the prime contractor, Textron Systems will work with General Dynamics-Applied Physical Sciences Corporation and American Superconductor on the future capabilities development effort for ONR.

The MAGNUSS will be designed to rapidly perform mine sweep missions without utilizing a towed system. Having the payload fully integrated onboard the CUSV platform allows mines to be neutralized safely and efficiently, effectively minimizing risk and harm to sailors.

MAGNUSS consists of a magnet developed by American Superconductor and an underwater acoustic system developed by General Dynamics- Applied Physical Sciences Corporation.

Additional testing and further development of this technology will continue as part of this 36-month contract.