QinetiQ, as part of a new Marine Surface Target Service, has signed a contract with Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASV) for the supply and operational support of autonomous surface target vessels.   
 
The partnership is part of a new initiative enabling QinetiQ's Marine Surface Target Service to rapidly and effectively meet customer needs for trials and training against appropriate targets. The Marine Surface Target Service is an innovative addition to the wider QinetiQ Target Services, which offers aerial and underwater targets for ‘real’ test, evaluation and training.
 
As part of this capability, QinetiQ, working closely with ASV, will supply a range of dynamic surface targets to emulate the threat posed by Fast Inshore Attack Craft (FIAC). With that threat increasing, dynamic surface targets play an essential role in weapon trials and in the training of Joint Operational teams.
 
ASV design, build and operate unmanned marine vehicle systems for commercial, government and military customers and have been working with QinetiQ for the past three years. Vince Dobbin, Head of Business Development at ASV, said; “The requirement for surface targets has grown significantly over the last two years and QinetiQ represents an important part of ASV’s business. Having provided QinetiQ with nine vessels in the last 18 months, this contract will enable ASV to support QinetiQ and their clients through a simple and effective contracting mechanism.”
 
For more information please visit www.asvglobal.com