MAST-13

MAST-13 overview

The MAST-13 (Maritime Autonomous Systems Testbed) is a 13-meter autonomous surface vessel developed for the Royal Navy's autonomous systems program. Built by L3Harris Technologies, the MAST-13 serves as a testbed for developing and evaluating autonomous maritime technologies including mine countermeasures, anti-submarine warfare, ISR, and force protection. The vessel can operate autonomously for extended periods and is equipped with multiple sensor systems and payload bays.

The MAST-13 is part of the Royal Navy's NavyX innovation program, which aims to rapidly introduce autonomous and unmanned systems into fleet operations. The vessel has participated in multiple exercises including the NATO REPMUS (Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping using Maritime Uncrewed Systems) series. As of 2025, the MAST-13 continues to serve as a critical testbed for the Royal Navy's autonomous maritime strategy, informing requirements for future operational unmanned vessels. Its significance lies in enabling the Royal Navy to develop concepts of operation for unmanned surface warfare, a domain that will increasingly define naval power in the coming decades.

Armament

30mm DS30M Mk2 remote weapon station (optional)

Development and operational timeline

1. Sep 2020MAST-13 delivered to Royal Navy for autonomous systems testing
2. Nov 2021MAST-13 participates in Unmanned Warrior exercise
3. Sep 2022MAST-13 completes mine countermeasures trials
4. Jun 2023Vessel participates in NATO REPMUS exercise in Portugal
5. Oct 2024Royal Navy integrates MAST-13 findings into future USV requirements