Unmanned watercraft set to debut in the Arhangel region by 2026.
Unmanned Marine Logistics Drone Makes Successful Debut in Arkhangelsk Region
The Arkhangelsk region, situated in the far northwest of Russia, is set to revolutionize maritime logistics with the introduction of an innovative new unmanned surface vehicle (USV) called Briz. This rigid inflatable boat-like vessel, equipped with cargo and specialized equipment superstructures, is designed to navigate the challenging conditions of the White Sea and deliver goods to remote and hard-to-reach areas.
The Briz USV is a significant step forward in Russian efforts to bolster Arctic and Northern maritime logistics using unmanned systems. The vessel boasts advanced navigation and communication systems, including the Russian RS-30M satellite communication antenna, which serves as a counterpart to the American Starlink system albeit considered less capable.
Currently in the testing and early production phase, the Briz USV is expected to enter serial production in the Arkhangelsk Oblast for primarily civilian logistics purposes, with potential dual-use functions to support the Russian Navy. This project is part of a wider strategic goal to increase naval and logistics autonomy in the Arctic while enhancing dual-use civilian-military capabilities.
The Svyaz and Radionavigation Arkhangelsk Company, a resident of the Russian Federation's Arctic Zone preferential economic regime, plays a critical role in equipping, maintaining, and upgrading marine electronics and navigation systems for vessels operating in the Arctic environment. This company has recently opened a marine equipment service facility in the region.
Two Russian companies, Sea Project and Bezekipazhnaya Logistika, are involved in the testing and development of the Briz unmanned marine logistics drone. The successful delivery of the "Breeze" catamaran, a type of catamaran that delivered cargo, to the Solovetsky Islands in July 2025, marked a positive experience for the use of unmanned vessels in the region.
Plans are underway to launch 2-3 similar unmanned vessels on a regular route within the Arkhangelsk region by next year. The regional governor announced these plans, making the Arkhangelsk region the first northern region to have an unmanned vessel successfully reach its destination. The project on unmanned marine logistics is being implemented as part of an agreement signed between the regional government and the companies "Si Project" and "Unmanned Logistics".
The successful completion of the "Breeze" catamaran's route has contributed to the preparations for the launch of more unmanned vessels. The launch of unmanned marine vessels in the Arkhangelsk region is scheduled for 2026, with the route planned for regular operation. The Briz USV, with its modern maritime radar and satellite communication technologies, is poised to address the logistical challenges posed by the Arctic’s remote maritime environment and aligns with broader Russian strategic goals.
The Briz USV's success in navigating the White Sea could potentially revolutionize not only maritime logistics but also the finance industry, as it may reduce transportation costs and improve efficiency for companies operating in the challenging Arctic environment.
With the integration of advanced technology such as the Russian RS-30M satellite communication antenna, the Briz USV could pave the way for future advancements in the transportation industry, allowing for the development of similar unmanned vehicles in other sectors like finance and technology.
