Spanish Navy Adopts SEAD 23 Unmanned Surface Drones developed by Zelenza

The new vehicle, conceived from the outset as an autonomous naval platform, will expand surveillance, patrol, and reconnaissance capabilities thanks to its modularity and its ability to operate alongside manned units

The Spanish company Zelenza, through its subsidiary Seadrone, has delivered the Sead 23 to the Spanish Navy. This unmanned surface vehicle (USV) is specifically designed for maritime support and surveillance missions. It is equipped to perform tasks such as patrol, escort, target location and tracking, coastal reconnaissance, and seabed surveys, among others.

Its dimensions are 7 meters in length, 2.32 meters in width,and a draft of 0.57 meters. Made of fiberglass, the SEAD 23, its waterjet propulsion, powered by a 320 hp diesel engine, allows it to reach speeds of up to 36 knots, while its endurance can be extended to up to a week at 4 knots. Furthermore, it has a payload capacity of 600 kg, including fuel and various types of sensors or actuators.

The drone's modular design allows for the integration of optical and infrared cameras, mass spectrometers, RF signal detectors, electronic warfare jammers, remote weapon stations, and systems for launching lightweight torpedoes, mines, or MILVUS loitering munitions, developed by the company itself. It can also deploy sonar and ROVs for underwater missions.

The Sead 23 will offer Spanish Navy a significant tactical advantage by executing missions that reduce personnel exposure and allow for manned-unmanned teaming operations, where manned and unmanned platforms cooperate. Its role will be especially relevant in Marine Corps amphibious operations, performing immediate reconnaissance and bathymetry in landing zones without risk to personnel. Likewise, in mine countermeasure’s missions, it can tow sonar or underwater vehicles to identify and neutralize threats from a distance, without compromising manned vessels.

The drone will also reinforce maritime surveillance and security at strategic points such as the Strait of Gibraltar, acting as a persistent observation platform capable of protecting critical infrastructure, monitoring submarine cables, and controlling maritime traffic. In anti-piracy scenarios, the Sead 23 can project a presence using a deterrent public address system or use its onboard weaponry as a response element, avoiding exposing personnel to high-risk situations.

“We are very proud, not only because the Sead 23 is the first drone of its kind acquired by the Spanish Navy, but also because, with this acquisition, we are contributing to ensuring that the Spanish defence forces are at the forefront of technology and innovation worldwide,” says José Fernández, president of Zelenza. “The Sead 23 is a vessel we hope will contribute to the security of our country and save many lives,” he added.

Source: Interempresas