The US Office of Naval research had a meeting bringing together leaders in academia, industry and military leaders to discuss technology to impact future amphibious naval operations. The topic of the meeting was “Expeditionary and Irregular Warfare: The Amphibious High Water Speed Challenge.”
Leaders spoke about the urgent need for technology to advance amphibious operations and create a high speed capability to enable the Marine Corps’ concept of operational maneuver from the sea.
Some of the topics highlighted as key areas for short and long-term development opportunities included:
• Hull form and propulsor hydrodynamics
• Powertrain/power generation/fuel efficiency/autonomy
• Survivability/materials/structures
• Human factors/habitability
Fast hydroplaning ships will need triple the engine power of current vehicles.
Why Speed matters :
• Ships enable naval maneuver creating conditions for littoral maneuver
• Speed enable littoral maneuver from distance reducing exposure to ships
• Speed over distance enables maneuver options
• Speed limits exposure of the landing force
• Speed reduces risk and creates opportunity and enhances littoral maneuver
SOURCES – Office of Naval Research
Brian Wang is a Futurist Thought Leader and a popular Science blogger with 1 million readers per month. His blog Nextbigfuture.com is ranked #1 Science News Blog. It covers many disruptive technology and trends including Space, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, Anti-aging Biotechnology, and Nanotechnology.
Known for identifying cutting edge technologies, he is currently a Co-Founder of a startup and fundraiser for high potential early-stage companies. He is the Head of Research for Allocations for deep technology investments and an Angel Investor at Space Angels.
A frequent speaker at corporations, he has been a TEDx speaker, a Singularity University speaker and guest at numerous interviews for radio and podcasts. He is open to public speaking and advising engagements.