Leonardo DRS announced the integration of its Maritime Mission Equipment Package (M-MEP) onto an autonomous unmanned surface vessel (USV), creating a latest counter-drone capability for maritime defense. The system is designed to detect, track, identify, and defeat aerial unmanned threats in coastal and littoral environments. The integration was completed ahead of the company’s planned demonstration at the Navy League Sea-Air-Space Symposium, where the M-MEP-equipped USV will be showcased. The M-MEP combines radar, electro-optical/infrared sensors, and effectors to provide a layered defense against small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). Leonardo DRS states the package enables autonomous detection and engagement cycles with minimal operator intervention, enhancing force protection for naval platforms and critical maritime infrastructure. The system is intended for deployment on both manned and unmanned vessels, offering scalability across fleet requirements. The announcement comes amid growing concern over the proliferation of commercially available drones being adapted for hostile use in maritime settings. Recent incidents in global hotspots have demonstrated the vulnerability of ships to swarm attacks and reconnaissance by low-cost aerial drones. Defense analysts note that counter-UAS solutions must operate effectively in challenging maritime conditions, including salt spray, high humidity, and dynamic sea states — environments where traditional land-based systems often face performance limitations. Leonardo DRS emphasized that the M-MEP is built on open architecture principles, allowing for future upgrades and integration with various command-and-control networks. The company has not disclosed the specific USV platform used in the integration, nor has it released details on the effective range or engagement timelines of the system. No live-fire test results or operational evaluation data have been made public at this time. The Navy League Sea-Air-Space Symposium, scheduled for April 2026 in National Harbor, Maryland, serves as one of the largest maritime defense exhibitions in the United States. Leonardo DRS confirmed its participation in the event, where it will present the M-MEP-USV integration as part of its broader portfolio in autonomous systems and electronic warfare. Other defense contractors are expected to showcase competing counter-drone technologies at the symposium, reflecting increased industry focus on maritime air defense. As of the announcement, no foreign military customers have been identified for the M-MEP-USV system. Leonardo DRS has not entered into any publicly recorded agreements for export or foreign military sales related to this specific configuration. The company continues to pursue domestic opportunities with U.S. Navy and Coast Guard programs focused on unmanned systems and layered defense architectures.
