AutoHook underpins next-generation LARS for unmanned and remotely operated vessels
Fairbanks Morse Defense (FMD) has unveiled AutoHook ™, a fully autonomous vessel recovery interface developed by its Norway-based subsidiary, Vestdavit. Positioned as a first-of-its-kind solution, AutoHook is designed to advance the next generation of Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS) by enabling fully hands-off recovery of Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) and other maritime assets.
The system’s compact, lightweight design supports interoperability across allied fleets operating in demanding conditions, while eliminating the need for an additional cradle during launch and recovery.
Developed by Vestdavit, a trusted provider of advanced life-saving maritime equipment, AutoHook fulfills the unmet need for autonomy during complex, high-risk launch and recovery. Whereas current autonomous solutions fail to meet operational demands beyond Sea State 2, AutoHook successfully achieved operational acceptance at Sea State 4. The system was engineered with safety as the highest priority. Fully autonomous operation eliminates the need for manual connections, removing the risk of injuries during operations.
“The global shift toward distributed maritime operations depends on unmanned systems that perform in real-world conditions and integrate seamlessly across allied fleets. AutoHook not only supports fleet modernization, it breaks the Sea State 2 ceiling that has long constrained manual launch and recovery,” said Rolf Andreas Wigand, Vestdavit CEO. “By delivering advanced launch and recovery solutions purpose-built for the operational demands of the U.S. fleet, we are helping ensure American forces, and those of our allies, have the reliable, scalable capability they need to operate effectively today and for decades to come.”
Designed for fleet-wide interoperability, AutoHook supports evolving mission profiles and aligns with NATO operational standards, delivering ready-to-deploy capabilities for allied maritime forces. Unlike solutions that require winches or davit modifications, the AutoHook clamp-on-davit wire unit mounts easily. Its integrated thrusters, onboard control, vision and power are contained in a single, minimal-footprint unit for seamless integration with existing vessels, without costly modifications.
Using its onboard vision system and integrated thrusters, AutoHook achieves stable tracking of dynamic targets, eliminating crew exposure while increasing speed, reliability and operational efficiency. Vestdavit’s autonomous, state-of-the-art vision system uses AI to determine and track the precise location of the rescue boat in real time, compared to other solutions that rely on operator control units. The autonomous operation of the system is ideally suited for the growing unmanned fleets being developed by navies worldwide.
“With AutoHook, we are solving one of the most critical challenges in maritime operations: achieving a safe, reliable, fully automated connection between ship and craft in high-energy sea states,” continued Wigand. “We are extremely proud to introduce AutoHook. As a company known for our commitment to practical innovation and maritime safety, this system helps us ensure maritime professionals can execute their missions with unparalleled safety, reliability and interoperability in challenging operational environments.”
