Abstract: An autonomous marine vehicle is disclosed, the vehicle comprising a rigid hull having an interior and a periphery, a deck joining the rigid hull at the periphery; and a rigid mast pivotally attached to the deck, the mast housing a plurality of sensors capable of effecting communication to and from said vehicle. In preferred embodiments, the vehicle further comprises various sensors and mission-specific hardware. Sensors include mast-mounted audio/video devices, radar, GPS and RF antennas, and other positioning and collision avoidance devices. Mission-specific hardware include refueling probes, fire protection systems, towing assemblies, flame thrower assemblies, liquid spray assemblies, and work pup assemblies.

Abstract: The system and apparatus of this invention provides for a rapidly loaded, palletized, non-dedicated fixed or rotary wing aircraft based, manned observation, sensor launch system, with self-powered sensing and targeting pod, multi-frequency antenna array, and with C4I analysis and control capabilities. The system may be used to deploy and manipulate autonomous and remote control vehicles, for the purpose of recovering and protecting persons in peril; containing/remediating toxic spills; sensing/detection; fire fighting; ship towing; or surface based refueling and support. Although not the primary purpose, this system can also be used for to support an offensive weapons system which could be used to selectively eliminate various targets with a standoff delivery capability.