# Defense Innovation Unit Awards Submarine UUV Systems

The U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has awarded contracts in 2026 to L3Harris Technologies and HII to develop and deliver Torpedo Tube Launch and Recovery systems for autonomous and unmanned underwater vehicles (AUVs/UUVs). These systems enable deployment and retrieval of underwater vehicles through submarine torpedo tubes without requiring submarine modifications or diver assistance, enhancing undersea operational capabilities and manned-unmanned teaming for the U.S. Navy. The contracts reflect a strategic push to advance undersea warfare technology by integrating autonomous systems that extend mission duration and operational flexibility.

- Both contracts focus on enabling submarine-launched autonomous underwater vehicle operations, leveraging advanced battery technology and existing UUV platforms like HII's REMUS.
- Procurement professionals should note the emphasis on systems compatible with current submarine platforms, indicating opportunities for vendors specializing in unmanned systems and undersea warfare technologies.
- These developments signal increased investment in autonomous maritime systems, suggesting a growing market for related technologies and integration services.
- Contractors should consider aligning proposals with DIU priorities on manned-unmanned teaming and non-intrusive submarine deployment capabilities to remain competitive.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Artificial Intelligence
**Published:** May 08, 2026

### Government Entities
- Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)
- U.S. Navy
- Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport

### Vendors
- L3Harris Technologies (prime contractor)
- HII (prime contractor)

### Sources
- [L3Harris Technologies has received a contract from the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit for a system which deploys and retrieves autonomous underwater vehicles through submarine torpedo tubes. Click image for more.
https://t.co/n24XUZbgVG](https://x.com/UKDefJournal/status/2051293711665893620) - twitter-defense
- [HII has been awarded a contract by the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit to develop a submarine Torpedo Tube Launch and Recovery system designed to autonomously deploy and recover unmanned underwater vehicles. Click image for more.
https://t.co/g7Oi5katN2](https://x.com/UKDefJournal/status/2052781003832201655) - twitter-defense