Naval Insertion Craft Design Supports UK Autonomy Objectives

Leidos has developed Sea Dagger, an advanced Commando Insertion Craft (CIC) concept for the Royal Navy that integrates speed, range, vehicle delivery, and modular mission systems into a single platform to enhance maritime autonomy.

Developed under the UK Commando Force (UKCF) programme, the initiative aims to deliver 24 medium surface insertion craft capable of deploying Commando Strike teams, tactical mobility platforms, offboard systems, and medium combat loads over long distances, supported by training and in-service sustainment.

Capable of exceeding 40 knots, Sea Dagger is the result of a collaborative development effort between Leidos Naval Architects and military subject matter experts, the Royal Navy, and UKCF. The design builds on more than 30 years of fast-craft expertise and incorporates Leidos technology, including Trusted Mission AI, autonomous systems and integrated weaponry.

Operational resilience is central to the concept, with a focus on readiness, availability, maintainability and repairability. The platform is designed to continue delivering its mission under stress, disruption or attack for an enduring presence in contested environments.

Aligned with AUKUS Pillar 2 maritime autonomy objectives and the UK Strategic Defence Review’s vision to move to warfighting readiness and increasing lethality, Sea Dagger helps ensure the UKCF can respond quickly with the tools, training and systems needed to face the evolving threats and demands of modern conflict.

Adam Clarke, Senior Vice President and Chief Executive at Leidos UK & Europe, stated, “Sea Dagger represents a pivotal step in equipping the UK Commando Force with the capability to operate with greater agility, survivability and intent in a complex and congested maritime environment. The Leidos design reflects our commitment to delivering resilient, future-ready platforms that can adapt to the complexities of modern warfare, ensuring capability, availability and operational advantage from day one. I am delighted that Leidos is at the forefront of shaping the maritime marketplace, domestically and internationally.”

Sea Dagger addresses the most pressing challenge faced by specialised units operating in coastal and shallow-water environments around the world. Unlike historical near-shore landing craft, Sea Dagger delivers a unique combination of naval architecture and high-technology sensors, weapons and C2 (command-and-control) capabilities shaped by the realities of warfare in modern conflicts.