This paper presents the results obtained from the design of a speed and heading control system for the platform component of an unmanned surface vehicle (USV) technology demonstrator, using PID controllers. A description of the vehicle technology demonstrator used for the implementation of the system is presented, as well as the tests performed to obtain the dynamic models of the platform component of the USV technology demonstrator, the calculations of the controllers and the navigation tests that validate the performance of these controllers. All the above as a result of the joint research process between the Naval Cadet School "Almirante Padilla" and COTECMAR, with the support of the Naval NCO School "ARC BARRANQUILLA" and financed by the Colombian Navy through Minciencias.