Leidos has introduced Sea Dagger, a next-generation commando insertion craft concept developed under the UK Commando Force modernization program to strengthen maritime autonomy and agility.
The company said Sea Dagger is the first craft of its size to combine speed, range, vehicle delivery and modular mission systems into a single platform. Designed to exceed 40 knots, the craft can deploy commando strike teams, light tactical mobility platforms, offboard systems and medium combat loads from an extended range.
“Sea Dagger represents a pivotal step in equipping the UK Commando Force with the capability to operate with greater agility, survivability and intent in a complex and congested maritime environment,” said Adam Clarke, senior vice president and chief executive at Leidos UK & Europe. “The Leidos design reflects our commitment to delivering resilient, future-ready platforms that can adapt to the complexities of modern warfare.”
Leidos noted that the platform incorporates Trusted Mission AI, autonomous systems and integrated weaponry to ensure operational resilience. The effort supports the UK Commando Force’s plan to field 24 medium surface insertion craft with training and in-service support.
The design also aligns with AUKUS Pillar 2 maritime autonomy objectives and the U.K. Strategic Defence Review’s emphasis on warfighting readiness and increased lethality.
Aligning With AUKUS and US Priorities
In a recent white paper, Leidos highlighted autonomy as a core tenet of AUKUS Pillar II, noting that “crewed and uncrewed systems will need to operate together seamlessly if the partnership is to maintain an operational edge in the Indo-Pacific.”
Autonomous platforms, the company argued, are best suited for dangerous or long-duration missions, freeing personnel for higher-value tasks while extending reach and resilience.
The push echoes U.S. Navy priorities. Adm. Daryl Caudle, the newly confirmed chief of naval operations, has called robotic and autonomous systems “a force multiplier already being employed across a wide range of missions.” During his Senate confirmation hearing, Caudle emphasized that these systems could rapidly scale to fill capability gaps amid the evolving threat landscape.
Explore how coalition warfare, international partnerships and advanced technologies are reshaping defense at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2025 GovCon International Summit on Oct. 16. Reserve your seat today.