US Navy's Saildrone Surveyor Departs for RIMPAC 2026 | Future of Naval Warfare

The US Navy's Saildrone Surveyor (SD-3001), an advanced uncrewed surface vessel (USV), departs Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, during RIMPAC 2026 on July 8, 2026. Designed to operate remotely without a crew onboard, the Saildrone Surveyor expands the sensing capabilities of connected manned platforms by providing persistent intelligence, surveillance, and maritime domain awareness. Its participation highlights the growing role of autonomous technology in modern naval operations and multinational maritime security. Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026, the world's largest international maritime exercise, takes place from June 24 to July 31 in and around the Hawaiian Islands. This milestone 30th edition brings together 30 nations, more than 30 surface ships, five submarines, over 206 aircraft, 15 national land forces, and approximately 30,000 military personnel. By integrating cutting-edge autonomous systems like the Saildrone Surveyor with traditional naval forces, RIMPAC 2026 demonstrates how allied and partner nations are preparing for the future of maritime operations while strengthening interoperability, enhancing regional security, and ensuring freedom of navigation across the Indo-Pacific.