08 May 2024

DSA 2024: Chinese company Poly Technologies showcases missile-capable USV

by Vinod Kumar CV

The Poly Technologies A2000 attack USV on display at DSA 2024. (Janes/Vinod Kumar CV)

Chinese defence company Poly Technologies showcased the A2000, a new next-generation combat unmanned surface vessel (USV), at the Defence Services Asia (DSA) 2024 exhibition held in Kuala Lumpur from 6 to 9 May.

The A2000 attack USV has a length of 45 m, a displacement of 280 tonnes, and a top speed of 35 kt. It features twin diesel engines and two controllable pitch propellers.

It is equipped with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar for surveillance and is integrated with an eight-cell vertical launching system for launching surface-to-air missiles, and 24-cell launchers at both sides for rockets. However, it is not fitted with anti-ship missile launchers.

The USV can co-ordinate with smaller vessels for a swarm attack, provide air defence, and extend its reach via satellite connectivity. Its trimaran hull design minimises radar detection. It also supports vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) unmanned aircraft system (UAS) operations for enhanced surveillance, positioning it as a versatile asset for peacetime and conflict scenarios.

Poly Technologies did not provide any other technical details of the vessel at the time of publication. A company representative at the exhibition confirmed that the company is seeking prospective customers in the Middle East and South Asian countries.

The A2000 USV was initially unveiled at the World Defence Show 2024 in Riyadh in February under the name Thunderer, however, the vessel no longer bears that name. Officials added that the name can be changed according to customer preferences.

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Chinese defence company Poly Technologies showcased the A2000, a new next-generation combat unmanned...

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