Video: US Navy Tests First Live-Fire GARC Kamikaze Drone Strike Against USS Peleliu
Our take
The recent demonstration by the U.S. Navy of a live-fire GARC (Gunfire and Counter Rocket Artillery) kamikaze drone strike against the decommissioned USS Peleliu represents a significant, albeit incremental, step in the evolution of naval warfare. This exercise, documented in a released video, showcases the increasing integration of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) into operational scenarios, specifically for offensive purposes. The move aligns with broader trends observed globally, as exemplified by [Britain’s First Certified Crewless Ship Just Launched And Recovered Its Own Drone In The Open Ocean], demonstrating a parallel push toward autonomous maritime systems in allied nations. Furthermore, the scale and complexity of these exercises are evident in events like [Watch: U.S., Partner Nations Sink 2 Retired Warships In RIMPAC 2026 Live-Fire Exercise], which highlight the collaborative and increasingly sophisticated nature of modern naval training. The successful execution of this strike provides valuable empirical data on the performance of these systems in a realistic environment, contributing to a growing body of knowledge regarding USV capabilities and limitations.
The deployment of kamikaze drones, or suicide drones, in naval contexts introduces a complex set of strategic and tactical considerations. While the use of such systems can potentially reduce risk to manned vessels and provide a cost-effective means of delivering ordnance, it also raises questions regarding command and control, ethical implications, and the potential for unintended consequences. The Peleliu exercise, utilizing a retired vessel, allows for a relatively controlled environment to validate these systems before integration into active fleets. The focus on GARC functionality – operating in conjunction with traditional naval gunfire support – suggests a layered defense strategy where USVs can act as scouts, target spotters, and ultimately, as direct attack platforms. The integrated data ecosystem required to manage this type of operation, collecting and processing real-time information, is a critical factor in its overall effectiveness, a point underscored by the increasing emphasis on ocean intelligence across naval forces.
Beyond the immediate tactical implications, this development speaks to a broader shift in naval architecture and operational doctrine. The increasing reliance on unmanned systems reflects a desire to enhance fleet survivability, extend operational range, and reduce reliance on increasingly expensive and vulnerable manned assets. The evolution is not simply about replacing sailors with machines; it's about fundamentally rethinking how naval forces are structured and employed. For example, the capabilities demonstrated by the Chinese Navy’s Type 075 assault ship, as shown in [Watch: Chinese Navy’s Type 075 Assault Ship Hainan Conducts High-Intensity South China Sea Drills], highlight the growing importance of amphibious warfare and the potential role of USVs in supporting such operations. Understanding the longitudinal trends in these developments is crucial for accurate assessment and strategic forecasting. The calibrated response to observed data is paramount, ensuring that doctrine and technology evolve in tandem.
Looking ahead, the key question is not *if* USVs will become integral to naval operations, but *how* their integration will reshape naval power dynamics and the character of maritime conflict. Further validated testing, particularly in more complex and contested environments, will be essential to refine operational procedures and address potential vulnerabilities. The ability to seamlessly integrate USV data streams with existing command and control systems, ensuring real-time situational awareness and effective decision-making, will be a defining factor in the success of this transition. The next phase of development should prioritize the creation of robust and resilient communication networks, capable of withstanding electronic warfare and maintaining reliable connectivity between USVs and manned assets, ultimately shaping the future of ocean stewardship and global security.
The U.S. Navy has used its Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC) as a one-way attack drone boat in a live-fire exercise for the first time, targeting the decommissioned amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026 exercise near Hawaii.
The July 17 strike was carried out by the Navy’s Unmanned Surface Vessel Division 32 (USVDIV-32), which deployed two GARC unmanned surface vessels during a SINKEX (sinking exercise).
The attack formed part of a coordinated strike package in which the target had already been hit by submarine-launched Harpoon missiles, air-launched anti-ship weapons, land-based missiles and helicopter-fired precision weapons.
The GARCs were sent in after those attacks and detonated near the ship’s waterline, adding localised structural damage and flooding to the damage already inflicted on the vessel.
The exercise allowed the Navy to evaluate how small autonomous surface vessels could be used alongside conventional weapons during large-scale naval operations.
RIMPAC 2026, held between June 24 and July 31, involved 30 nations, about 30 ships, five submarines, more than 190 aircraft, 15 national land forces and over 30,000 personnel.
The exercise also allowed the Navy to integrate the GARC into a multinational command-and-control network.
Video released by the U.S. Navy after the exercise showed unmanned surface vessels operating around the heavily damaged USS Peleliu.
The footage showed extensive damage around the waterline and water entering the ship after multiple strikes. According to the Navy, the footage was recorded by the second GARC after the attack.
Sarah Weinstein, the first commanding officer of USVDIV-32, said in a LinkedIn post that she was “honored that USVDIV-32 was given the opportunity to execute the Navy’s first GARC Live Fire during RIMPAC 2026.”
“It was incredible to watch my team execute with precision, and we were thrilled to provide a perspective of the former USS Peleliu that isn’t often captured in a SINKEX,” she said.
According to The War Zone, two GARCs took part in the exercise, although only one carried out the one-way attack. The report said the vessel used Anduril’s Lattice autonomy software and carried a payload of up to 1,000 pounds, although it was not clear how much of that weight was the explosive charge.
Follow-on strike after larger weapons
Unlike missiles or aircraft used in the opening phase of an attack, the GARC was employed after the target had already sustained heavy damage.
By entering the battle later, the unmanned vessel was able to attack a ship whose sensors, weapons, electrical systems and damage-control capability had already been degraded. The exercise tested whether a small autonomous craft could exploit vulnerable areas exposed after earlier strikes.
The Navy said such vessels could be directed toward damaged sections of a ship’s hull, machinery spaces, stern or well deck.
Their low profile and small radar signature could also make them harder to detect while operating close to the sea surface, particularly in an environment filled with smoke, floating debris and electronic interference.
USS Peleliu, a Tarawa-class amphibious assault ship, measured about 250 meters in length with a beam of 32.5 meters and a draft of 8.2 meters.
The ship displaced about 39,438 long tons at full load and could carry more than 2,800 personnel, including sailors, aviation crews and embarked Marines.
The vessel featured a full-length flight deck, aviation hangar, well deck, vehicle storage areas, engineering compartments, fuel tanks, magazines, workshops, medical facilities and command spaces.
During service it operated AV-8B Harrier attack aircraft, MV-22 Ospreys, CH-53 heavy-lift helicopters, CH-46 transport helicopters, AH-1 attack helicopters and UH-1 utility helicopters.
Even if the ship remained afloat, damage to machinery spaces, electrical systems, aviation fuel infrastructure or the well deck could significantly reduce its ability to support amphibious operations.
References: twz, armyrecognition
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