The 'Liberty'-class unmanned vessel initiative, a collaborative effort between U.S. startup Blue Water Autonomy and Dutch shipbuilder Damen Shipyards, has made its official debut. The hallmark of this unmanned vessel is its modular architecture and production strategy, both meticulously crafted to facilitate 'assembly-line mass production.' This formidable 190-foot steel unmanned vessel is designed to traverse over 10,000 nautical miles and carry a payload exceeding 150 metric tons. Incorporating Damen's acclaimed Stan Patrol 6009 hull design and outfitted with cutting-edge autonomous propulsion systems, it is capable of sustained operations for months on end, sans crew. The inaugural Liberty-class autonomous vessel is slated for completion by late 2026, with ambitious plans to ramp up annual production to 10 to 20 vessels, thereby furnishing the U.S. Navy with a swiftly expandable unmanned surface combat and support contingent.