Ghostworks Unveils MRLN Maritime Autonomy System

Ghostworks has introduced the Multirole Remote Logistics Node (MRLN) at the Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit, announced in a press release. The system, developed with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and Mercury Marine, enables vessels to carry out multiple missions under remote human-in-the-loop control.

MRLN is a modular mission systems layer that can be deployed across Ghostworks' M-Hull and powercat vessels. It allows operators to reconfigure missions in the field without changing platforms. The first implementation uses Ghostworks’ forty-foot Minerva-class M-Hull, which is capable of carrying 17,500 pounds at a cruise speed of 30 knots and performing in sea state four.

General Atomics contributed autonomy and sensor technology adapted from its aerial systems, while Mercury Marine integrated its drive-by-wire propulsion and Command Gateway for reliability in prolonged maritime operations. Together, these systems allow MRLN-equipped vessels to deliver fuel, transport cargo, conduct rescues, or support combat logistics.

The MRLN platform is designed to perform five mission types, including intelligence and surveillance, littoral resupply, mine countermeasures, communications relay, and logistics combat support. The architecture maintains autonomous functionality while keeping human operators connected and ready to assume control when required.