Diesel outboards powering autonomous marine operations
Safe, fuel-efficient propulsion for next-generation uncrewed surface vessels
Supporting autonomous marine operations
Uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) are reshaping maritime defence, surveillance and research – demanding propulsion systems that combine power, range and low-maintenance reliability. Cox diesel outboards are increasingly chosen as the preferred solution for USV platforms operating in complex, high-risk environments.
Our V8 diesel outboard delivers the extended endurance, safety and rugged engineering required for long-duration autonomous missions. From emerging partnerships in the Gulf to coastal security and research applications in Southeast Asia, Cox is powering the future of uncrewed maritime capability.
Why Cox diesel outboards are ideal for USVs
Remove time consuming repairs
Hot-swap capability
Diesel outboards with “hot-swap” capability eliminate the need for time-consuming inboard repairs – rapid replacement gets vessels back on mission fast, delivering vital tactical and logistical advantages for decisive naval operations.
Greater safety, lower volatility
Single fuel
In single-fuel operations, diesel outboards align with naval logistics – using the same fuel as larger vessels to boost interoperability, extend range, and enhance endurance, all with greater safety and lower volatility than gasoline.
Freedom to customise
Open controls architecture
Cox Marine’s open control architecture gives USV developers the freedom to customise – broadcasting data via standard ISO CANbus for seamless integration, and offering full access to control protocols and error-handling software for tailored autonomy and system compatibility.
Performance Data
Key features – built for uncrewed marine platforms
Power and precision
With high torque at low RPM, the twin-turbo V8 ensures smooth propulsion and directional stability – essential for mission accuracy and safe automated navigation.
Easy to integrate
The V8 is compatible with industry-standard control systems and offers flexible mounting and steering options, making it ideal for integration into new USV designs or as part of a hybrid propulsion strategy
Environmentally compliant
Certified to IMO II, RCD II and EPA Tier 3 standards, the V8 meets global environmental requirements – supporting research, defence and security applications with minimal emissions impact.
Trusted by USV innovators
From strategic collaborations in the Middle East to specialist marine tech projects across Asia, Cox Marine is working with leading USV developers to deliver safe, long-range propulsion for uncrewed fleets. With diesel outboards deployed on pilot USV vessels and growing demand for autonomous marine systems across the region, Cox is at the forefront of this next-generation capability – backed by a global support network and trusted technical partners.
The Cox Marine V8
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