During the Euronaval 2026 press trip at Toulon Naval Base, Naval Group showcased its Seaquest S Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) fitted with weapons. In this interview, Aymeric, Marketing Director for Drones and Unmanned Systems, details the platform's capabilities, including its first public appearance fitted with a rocket launcher module. He also introduced four more mission modules.
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The newly integrated rocket system utilizes a Rampart module, allowing frigates and their deployed drones to share common ammunition. This system of systems approach is designed to save valuable shipboard space and maximize operational efficiency. The armed USV has already successfully completed navigational sea trials in this configuration, with live rocket firing tests scheduled for the coming months.
Seaquest S Mission Modules
To keep pace with the rapid evolution of modern warfare, Naval Group has developed several quickly interchangeable mission payloads for the bow modular area. Alongside the central reclining mast used for ISR missions, four specialized modules were highlighted:
– Sonobuoy and Decoy Launcher: This payload was tested during the NATO REPMUS 2025 exercise to participate in experimental unmanned Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) barriers.
– Swarm Box: A protective storage system developed by Naval Group to shield stored drones from salt water. The Seaquest S can carry four of these boxes to deploy a mass-effect swarm of 40 quadcopters for force saturation.
– Drone Interceptor: A next-generation hard-kill system currently in development with partner Alta Ares to carry interceptors to sea and engage enemy threats at close range.
Source: Naval News
