Are robotic watercraft designed for underwater exploration referred to as Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USV)?

Robotic watercraft designed for underwater exploration are not referred to as Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs). USVs are specifically designed to operate on the surface of the water and are typically used for tasks such as surveillance, data collection, and transportation above the waterline. In contrast, underwater exploration is primarily conducted by Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) or Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). These vehicles are specifically engineered to withstand underwater pressures and navigate aquatic environments, which is fundamentally different from the capabilities and intended functions of USVs. Thus, referring to underwater vehicles as USVs is incorrect.