Vanguard

Vanguard has also been developed into a composite system of manned and unmanned capabilities, offering greater operational flexibility. Key Norwegian technologies, including autonomy, play a crucial role. The manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) concept has received significant focus for experimentation and development. 

With experience from over 30,000 vessels featuring Norwegian technology, the Norwegian maritime cluster has the expertise to determine which equipment should be standardized. The Vanguard solution integrates significant Norwegian technology, supporting maritime subcontractors across all counties. 

Unmanned systems in maritime warfare enhance protection by reducing risk to personnel, as time and space can be managed differently than in traditional operations. As these factors become increasingly compressed, higher attrition is expected. Future systems must account for this when replacing legacy platforms and shaping naval structures. The ability to build and commission new systems quickly will be critical to maintaining capability in both quantity and quality, addressing increased vulnerability and expected attrition. 

Recognising the fundamental differences between commercial and military shipbuilding highlights the merit of the principle "as commercial as possible and military as necessary." Commercial vessels are built far more rapidly than naval ships, but this approach alone may not be sufficient when accounting for potential attrition rates. As technology evolves, a new maritime warfare concept will likely emerge to address future challenges while maintaining operational capability. 

A navy and coastguard must be prepared for contingencies across the full spectrum of conflict. However, a "one size fits all" approach cannot fully meet their diverse roles and requirements, posing a key challenge in capability development.