Review of Autonomous Undersea Vehicle (AUV) Developments 
Figure 6. Submarine-Launched UUVs 
The Tactical Modular UUV (figure 6) would address the needs of the Maritime Reconnaissance 
and Submarine Track and Trail capabilities. As with the M?UUVs, the first step is the 
standardization of module size contents, with special attention paid to those capabilities needed 
by the vehicle system as a whole. As these modules are developed, the payload modules will 
be developed on a parallel path, ensuring system compatibility. Modules developed under the 
M?UUV program will also be considered for incorporation in the system. This approach can lead 
to an initial Maritime Reconnaissance Capability by FYO7. The Submarine Track and Trail 
capability is obviously more difficult to achieve; however, if the technology is pushed, an 
effective UUV capability can be fielded. Initial variants of the Submarine Track and Trail 
capability may be less autonomous, require closer coordination to U.S. Forces (both surface 
ship and submarine), and may be smaller than the systems of the Vision. As dedicated 
modules become established and UUV mission capabilities grow, more complex mission can be 
pursued. Eventually, the full Maritime Reconnaissance and Submarine Track and Trail 
Capability can be achieved, and perhaps, tactical engagement with missiles and/or weapons 
launched from UUVs can be explored. 
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