NAVCENT Launches Unmanned Systems Integration Task Force

The US Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) launched Task Force 59 on Thursday. This group will focus on integrating unmanned systems and artificial intelligence within the 5th Fleet’s area of operations.

Commander of NAVCENT Vice Adm. Brad Cooper said that the main reason behind Task Force 59 integration between unmanned systems and AI.

This integration focuses on two main principles: “One, enhance our maritime domain awareness, and two, increase deterrence,” Cooper said.

An expert in maritime robotics, Capt. Michael D. Brasseur has been assigned as Task Force 59’s first commodore.

The task force is expected to “build trust and confidence in human-machine teaming through a series of operations at sea.”

The group will conduct tests to “challenge the technology in a dynamic environment” with the objective of demonstrating and improving human-machine teaming technologies.

Human-Machine Integration

As the US military is working on acquiring more advanced unmanned systems and anti-drone weapons, other agencies are also seeking improved integration among unmanned systems.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration established the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration in the National Airspace System that “will make it possible for unmanned aircraft systems to have routine access to airspace occupied by human-piloted aircraft.”