Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA)’s NOMARS USV navigation system enhanced by FarSounder’s Argos 3D FLS.

FarSounder has announced recently, through Serco., that the Argos 3D Forward Looking Sonar (FLS) is included in the navigation system on the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) recently completed No Manning Required Ship (NOMARS) demonstration vessel. The project is the development of Defiant—a first-of-its-kind unmanned surface vessel (USV) designed to operate autonomously for extended durations at sea without any onboard crew.

As part of this innovative program, FarSounder’s Argos FLS was integrated into the vessel’s navigation suite to enhance situational awareness and support the ship’s real-time obstacle avoidance capabilities. This integration reflects FarSounder’s increasing presence within the autonomous and unmanned sector, providing enhanced navigation for vessels conducting complex missions in challenging marine environments.

The Defiant, a 180-foot, 240-metric-ton vessel, completed construction in early 2025 and is now undergoing in-water and at-sea testing. Its successful deployment marks a significant milestone in autonomous naval operations.

🎤 “This program represents a major step forward in the evolution of unmanned maritime systems,” said Matthew Zimmerman, CEO and Co-Founder of FarSounder. “We’re honored to contribute our technology to an effort that pushes the boundaries of ship design and operational autonomy.”

FarSounder are proud to have the Argos system on this project as they continue to expand their footprint in the unmanned and autonomous vessel sector. With over two decades of expertise in real-time 3D navigation, their forward looking sonar systems are increasingly being selected by defense, commercial, and research initiatives seeking advanced situational awareness below the waterline.

FarSounder believes in pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the exploration of the world’s oceans and waterways. They do this by developing innovative products that do more than just help vessels get safely from point A to point B. They make a difference by being environmentally conscious by creating products that reduce the impact on the ecosystem.

For over 20 years, FarSounder have dedicated themselves to tackling new ideas and developing 3D Forward Looking Navigation Sonar technology (3D FLS). Their unique patented technology paints a clear picture of what lies ahead underwater and along the bottom, reducing the likelihood of collisions, which in turn prevents costly damage to property, the environment, and marine and human lives alike.

Their navigation systems are globally recognized. The Argos 1000, Argos 500, and Argos 350 are able to provide customers with a whole suite of sophisticated navigation capabilities of interest to many types of vessels. Wherever you decide to go, FarSounder will help get you there safely.

📸🗒️: FarSounder