BlackSea Technologies used SOF Week 2026 in Tampa to introduce Comet, a new unmanned surface vessel built for high-speed combat missions near hostile coastlines. The autonomous craft targets a growing U.S. military requirement for smaller robotic warships that can operate in dangerous waters without placing crews at risk.

The vessel stood out at the event because of its unusually heavy weapons configuration for a platform its size. Comet combines missile strike capability, surveillance systems, and defensive interceptors inside a compact 13.1-meter hull designed for rapid deployment and multi-mission operations.

Fast attack capability

BlackSea designed Comet for missions that demand both speed and payload capacity. The vessel can travel faster than 45 knots while carrying up to 10,000 pounds, including fuel and mission equipment.

That combination gives operators room to install sensors, electronic warfare systems, guided weapons, or reconnaissance packages depending on mission needs. Company officials positioned Comet as a flexible combat platform rather than a single-purpose drone boat.

The vessel targets operations close to shore where traditional warships face higher risks from drones, missiles, mines, and fast attack craft. BlackSea says Comet can support surface warfare, mine countermeasures, antisubmarine operations, electronic warfare, maritime surveillance, and escort duties.

Several established defense suppliers also contributed systems for the platform. The displayed configuration included Sierra Nevada Corporation’s BRAWLR missile launcher, Leonardo DRS RADA radar technology, an EOS Defense Systems USA 30mm gun, Volvo Penta propulsion, and Seakeeper stabilization equipment.

Layered missile loadout

Comet’s missile arrangement drew particular attention during the event. The vessel appeared equipped with both offensive strike weapons and short-range defensive interceptors, a setup rarely seen on smaller unmanned surface craft.

The larger missiles closely resemble AGM-114 Hellfire precision-guided weapons commonly used against surface targets. Alongside them, observers identified smaller missiles that visually match AIM-9 Sidewinder-family interceptors, potentially including newer AIM-9X variants adapted for maritime defense roles.

BlackSea has not publicly confirmed the exact missile types. Still, the launcher configuration suggests the company wants Comet to engage both surface and aerial threats during independent operations.

That approach reflects a growing concern inside the U.S. military over drone swarms and low-cost aerial threats operating near naval formations. A vessel capable of launching strike missiles while also defending itself against incoming drones could reduce pressure on larger crewed ships.

Built for contested waters

Comet enters a rapidly expanding market for autonomous naval systems as the Pentagon pushes for more distributed maritime operations. Military planners increasingly want smaller robotic platforms that can scout ahead, patrol dangerous waterways, and carry weapons into contested zones.

Recent conflicts have accelerated interest in unmanned maritime warfare. Attack drones and autonomous boats have repeatedly challenged conventional naval operations in regions including the Black Sea and Red Sea.

BlackSea developed Comet around that changing battlefield environment. The company says the vessel’s signature reduction wrap from DECPT improves survivability by lowering visibility in contested maritime areas.

With high speed, modular systems, and a layered missile package, Comet aims to give U.S. and allied naval forces a compact autonomous vessel capable of both striking targets and protecting nearby assets during future maritime operations.