Latvian defense developer NEWT21 has transitioned its FOG and RAY uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) from prototype development to standardized, serial production. The dual-use maritime platforms, co-funded by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund, have reached Technology Readiness Level 8 (TRL 8), indicating certified operational readiness for civil and military deployment following operational evaluation in Ukraine.
As stated on the official Facebook page of NEWT21, the platforms were previously supplied to Ukrainian forces, with the Ukrainian Special Operations Forces receiving the RAY USV in May 2025 and the Ziedot.lv foundation procuring a FOG unit for the Ukrainian Armed Forces in early January. The composite-hulled FOG platform, fabricated from carbon and aramid fibers, features a modular design with lengths ranging from 3.6 to 5.4 meters, a 90 hp waterjet engine, and a maximum payload capacity of 200 kg. Achieving speeds up to 86 km/h and an operational range up to 900 km, the FOG incorporates satellite communications, anti-jamming GPS, and inertial navigation, with ground control architecture supporting swarm operations for up to 32 units simultaneously.
The heavier RAY platform utilizes a twin-hull configuration based on two linked FOG units, measuring 5.4 meters in length and 2.25 meters in width. Driven by dual 90 hp waterjet propulsion systems, the 500 kg vessel accommodates up to 500 kg of payload, reaches a top speed of 78 km/h, and offers an operational range up to 700 km. The transition to serial production marks the commercialization phase for both USV variants across international defense and industrial sectors.
