The unmanned surface vessel (USV) market is experiencing rapid global growth, currently valued at over $2 billion and forecast to exceed $3 billion by 2030. As demand increases across defence, security, and commercial sectors, operators are seeking propulsion solutions that offer extended range, exceptional reliability, and reduced through-life costs. Cox Marine’s advanced diesel outboards are well positioned to meet these requirements, delivering durable, fuel-efficient performance in a compact, easily integrated package.
Why Diesel Outboards Make Sense for USVs
Cox Marine’s diesel outboards deliver key advantages for unmanned surface vessels (USVs) operating in demanding environments.
- Enhanced Safety
Unlike petrol engines, diesel power plants use compression ignition, eliminating the risk of spark and reducing the chance of explosion. This makes Cox outboards a safer, compliant choice for offshore, commercial, and defence applications—especially in regulated or hazardous zones where petrol is restricted or banned. - High Torque for Demanding Missions
With twin turbochargers and peak torque available at just 2600 RPM, the Cox V8 provides strong low-end power ideal for carrying heavy payloads, maintaining course in strong currents, and delivering responsive performance in tough sea conditions. - Extended Range and Endurance
Thanks to the higher energy density of diesel fuel and the efficiency of Cox’s engine design, operators can achieve up to 30% better fuel economy compared to petrol alternatives. That means longer time on station, fewer refuelling requirements, and extended mission capability. - Built for Uptime
Designed for commercial-grade reliability, Cox diesel outboards feature long service intervals, easy maintenance access, and are backed by a strong global support network. For USV operators, this translates to less downtime and more time on the water.
Engineered for Endurance
The Cox 300 and 350 V8 diesel outboards are built to deliver long-lasting performance and reliability for modern autonomous marine platforms. With torque outputs ranging from 959 to 1052 Nm—nearly double that of comparable petrol outboards—these engines are designed to handle heavy-duty workloads with ease. Their twin-turbocharged V8 configuration provides powerful, controlled acceleration, while peak torque at just 2600 RPM ensures strong low-speed performance under load—ideal for high-speed USVs and rapid-deployment vessels.
Fuel efficiency is another standout feature. The Cox diesel platform achieves up to 30% better fuel economy than petrol alternatives, offering extended range and reduced operational costs. For unmanned surface vessels, this means more time on station, fewer refuels, and greater mission endurance.
Unlike many outboards adapted from automotive designs, the Cox V8 is purpose-built for marine applications. Certified to EPA Tier 3, RCD II, and IMO II standards, it’s constructed with marine-grade materials and designed for durability in harsh environments. With a standard transom mounting setup, integration is straightforward—whether for new builds or repowers.
This makes the Cox diesel outboard a practical, efficient, and mission-ready propulsion solution for the evolving USV market.
Cox 300
Cox 350
Pioneering Projects: MARTAC and Phoenix USVs
Cox diesel outboards have supported USV programs from their earliest stages. In 2023, Maritime Tactical Systems (MARTAC) unveiled its Devil Ray T24 ASV—a 7-metre high-speed USV—powered by twin Cox 300 V8 diesel outboards. Capable of speeds over 50 knots and a cruising range of 600 nautical miles while carrying an 1,800 lb payload, the Devil Ray showcases the performance potential of Cox-powered platforms.
Another example is the Phoenix USV, developed through collaboration between marine technology and vessel design specialists. This cutting-edge 43-foot catamaran was recently launched featuring Cox diesel outboards, chosen for their ability to support extended-range, high-endurance operations in demanding environments.
By powering advanced platforms like the Devil Ray and Phoenix, Cox Marine continues to demonstrate how its diesel outboards enable the next generation of unmanned vessels to meet the rigorous demands of defence, surveillance, and commercial missions.
Cox Marine: Trusted Support for Unmanned Operations
Cox Marine continues to set the benchmark in diesel outboard propulsion for unmanned surface vessels (USVs), combining advanced engine technology with purpose-built marine engineering and reliable global support.
Engineered for high-endurance operations, Cox diesel outboards deliver the performance and reliability that USV operators demand. With high torque at low RPM, superior fuel economy, and robust marine-grade construction, these engines are built to handle continuous duty in harsh marine environments.
Integration into autonomous systems is streamlined with open CANbus architecture and NMEA 2000 compatibility, enabling seamless connection with a wide range of control and monitoring platforms.
What sets Cox Marine apart is its end-to-end support model. With full control over its production and supply chain, the company ensures consistent availability of engines and spare parts. A strong global distributor network—backed by expert in-house service teams—provides responsive, locally accessible support to keep vessels mission-ready.
This combination of engineered durability, ease of integration, and dependable aftersales support makes Cox Marine a proven propulsion partner for the growing USV market.
Propel Your USV Program with Confidence
Cox Marine is committed to advancing the future of autonomous marine operations. Our diesel outboard engines have been proven in demanding defence and commercial applications, delivering the performance, efficiency, and reliability modern USVs require.
For developers and operators seeking dependable, long-range propulsion solutions, Cox Marine—supported by Power Equipment’s expert network—offers tailored support and integration guidance every step of the way.
Speak with your local Power Equipment dealer to explore how Cox diesel outboards can power your next USV project.
