Canadian Navy Tests Armed Naval Drone During Trident Fury 2025

The Royal Canadian Navy has used an armed Hammerhead uncrewed surface vessel (USV) for the first time during the Trident Fury 2025 exercise.

A video released by the Navy captures the drone, launched from the frigate HMCS Vancouver and controlled via satellite, striking and destroying a target with an onboard warhead.

Another Hammerhead was likely used as the target, suggesting the drill simulated a response to incoming kamikaze-style drones.

“Led by our Advanced Naval Capabilities Group (ANC), in collaboration with the Naval Diving Group and HMCS Vancouver, this operation demonstrates how bottom-up innovation and interagency collaboration are preparing us for the future,” the Navy shared.

Canada created the ANC unit to enhance its use of uncrewed systems in maritime interception and port defense. The unit operates air, surface, and underwater platforms.

Hammerhead

British defense company QinetiQ has developed the Hammerhead.

It is powered by a 3.0-liter MerCruiser engine producing 135 horsepower, allowing speeds of up to 35 knots in moderate seas and 40 knots in calmer conditions.

The drone is designed to simulate fast-attack boats and can operate in swarms of up to 40 vessels to mimic massed naval threats.

In early May, Kraken presented its new surface drone, the Kraken3 Scout Medium, which can carry Switchblade loitering munitions. British company Kraken developed the drone for a variety of missions, including kamikaze strikes, combat roles, cargo transport, and personnel delivery.