New US weapon: Muskie M18 – a maritime strike drone for risky operations
The American company Maritime Tactical Systems (MARTAC) has introduced a new Muskie M18 maritime strike drone designed for one-way operations.
The drone, equipped with an autonomous control system, is a high-speed single-hulled vehicle capable of delivering payloads weighing up to 450 kg over a distance of up to 500 nautical miles (920 km). The speed of the Muskie M18 exceeds 50 knots (90 km/h), making it an effective tool for offshore operations.
One of the key features of this drone is its Starlink satellite communication system, which makes it resistant to electronic warfare and suitable for use anywhere in the world. It is also equipped with an optical station, probably with a thermal imaging channel, which provides effective surveillance and reconnaissance.
The design of the Muskie M18 was completed in just three months, which demonstrates its high level of flexibility and ability to be implemented quickly. MARTAC CEO Bruce Hanson emphasized that the Muskie M18 is an inexpensive and lightweight system capable of effectively supporting military operations at sea and deterring enemy fleets.
The emergence of the Muskie M18 is linked to global trends, including the experience of Ukrainian naval drones, which have demonstrated their effectiveness in the Russian-Ukrainian war. This latest drone is a response to the challenges of modern naval warfare and opens up new opportunities for military operations at sea.
