In a groundbreaking exercise that showcased their evolving capabilities, the U.S. Navy reported on Thursday that it had successfully fired 'lethal munitions' from an unmanned vessel for the first time in international waters in the Middle East. The drill, captured on video, involved the destruction of a target boat and marked a significant milestone for the Navy's unmanned and artificial intelligence task force.

Known as Task Force 59, the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) carried out the exercise last month in international waters surrounding the Arabian Peninsula. The Navy's aim was to explore the operational application of new unmanned systems and artificial intelligence technologies.

Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, Navcent's commander, emphasized the focus on enhancing fleet lethality through the utilization of cutting-edge unmanned platforms. "During Digital Talon, we took a significant step forward and advanced our capability to the 'next level' beyond just maritime domain awareness," he said. The successful demonstration, according to the Navy, strengthens regional maritime security and serves as a deterrent against malign activity.

The video footage showcased a 38ft unmanned twin-hulled speedboat equipped with two outboard motors, highlighting its swift navigation through the waves. The operation was remotely monitored by two naval operators. Once the target boat was acquired, the 'lethal miniature aerial missile system' was activated, launching a projectile that homed in on the target and destroyed it.

The Navy reported direct hits during multiple tests, underscoring the effectiveness of the unmanned capabilities. This exercise marked the second demonstration of advanced unmanned systems in the region in recent weeks. In September, unmanned underwater surface and aerial vehicles successfully tracked Iranian Navy and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy ships and small boats throughout routine patrols in and around the Strait of Hormuz.

Capt. Colin Corridan, the commander of Task Force 59, revealed that they have tested a remarkable 15 different types of drones. The task force adopts a start-up mentality, encouraging innovation and the generation of ideas from all levels of the organization.

The successful firing of 'lethal munitions' from an unmanned vessel showcases the Navy's dedication to continuously push the boundaries of unmanned technologies. This accomplishment heightens the Navy's operational capabilities in international waters, providing an additional layer of deterrence and bolstering regional maritime security.