Inspired by Ukraine’s use of Unmanned Attack Boats, Europe Kicks off Similar Project in Estonia

Following the success of Ukraine in bringing down Russian warships using small unmanned  boats, the European Defence Fund (EDF) has launched a project led by an Estonian firm, Baltic Workboats to develop similar drone vessels.

The EUROGUARD project has officially commenced in Estonia with an investment of almost 100 million Euro.

The project involves a collaboration between 23 enterprises and the cooperation of 10 EU Member States.

The primary objective of this initiative is to develop a modular and semi-autonomous surface vessel platform equipped with a remote control system, aiming to strengthen sea defense capabilities across Europe. The kick-off involved workshops in Tallinn and a shipyard visit to Nasva, Saaremaa.

The project total budget amounts to 95 million euros, with 65 million euros from the European Commission and 30 million euros from participating countries and companies themselves.

“The participation in the project and leadership of the consortium is a huge responsibility that allows Baltic Workboats to demonstrate it cutting edge technology and competence as a shipbuilder as well as learn new technologies,” said Margus Vanaselja, the CEO of Baltic Workboats.

The specific capabilities of the vessel will be determined through multi-year research and development activities, but in general, the vessel should be capable of autonomous navigation, obstacle and threat detection, collision avoidance, and other mission-specific tasks.

The prototype must adhere to the principle of modularity, allowing it to be assembled according to specific needs or tasks. Innovation is also expected in the propulsion system, with environmental sustainability being an important keyword.