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India’s First Autonomous Surface Vessel
Context:
The successful 1,500-km autonomous journey of India’s first autonomous surface vessel, built by Sagar Defence Engineering, highlights the advancements in India’s maritime technology, especially in support of national security, environmental monitoring, and resource management.
Background:
- The 1,500-km Sagarmala Parikrama journey was flagged off by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 29, 2024, during the Swavlamban event.
- Indian Navy provided testing facilities and operational feedback, crucial for the project’s success.
Key Technological Components of Unmanned Autonomous Maritime Technology & Benefits:
- Autonomous Navigation: Equipped with GPS and path-planning algorithms, the vessel autonomously charts routes, avoiding obstacles and adjusting course as needed. This ensures safe, efficient navigation over long distances without human intervention.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: AI allows the vessel to respond to changing environmental conditions in real time, while machine learning helps it improve performance with each journey, enhancing safety and efficiency.
- Sensor and Radar Systems: Integrated lidar, radar, sonar, and optical sensors provide a comprehensive view of surroundings, enabling obstacle detection and safe manoeuvring even in complex waters.
- Communication Systems: Satellite and radio communication enable real-time data exchange with remote operators or the Indian Navy, ensuring operational security and transparency, particularly in remote areas.
- Energy Efficiency and Propulsion: Advanced propulsion systems, possibly integrating hybrid or solar technology, support energy efficiency, extending the vessel’s operational range while minimising environmental impact.
- Emergency and Safety Protocols: Equipped with automatic stop mechanisms, distress signalling, and emergency response systems, the vessel can address malfunctions autonomously, enhancing reliability in dangerous maritime environments.
- Indigenous Development: Supported by the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO), Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC), and iDEX, this project represents a significant milestone in India’s journey toward Atma Nirbharta, reducing dependency on foreign technology.
Applications and Impact:
- National Security and Defence: The vessel is ideal for coastal surveillance, anti-piracy, and sea lane protection, supporting continuous border monitoring and enhanced maritime security.
- Environmental Monitoring: It can collect data on pollution, track marine biodiversity, and provide insights into climate change impacts.
- Resource Management and Economic Advantages: From fisheries monitoring to secure trade route protection, autonomous vessels enhance resource management and streamline trade, which aligns with India’s cautious trade strategy.
Global Unmanned Autonomous Maritime Technology:
Global advancements in autonomous maritime technology are led by the U.S., Norway, the U.K., China, Japan, and South Korea, focusing on national security, environmental monitoring, commercial shipping, and exploration.
- United States: DARPA’s Sea Hunter is a USV for anti-submarine warfare with advanced AI, while Boeing’s Orca XLUUV supports intelligence and mine countermeasures.
- Norway: Yara Birkeland is a zero-emission cargo ship, and AutoNaut, wave-powered, conducts ocean research with minimal environmental impact.
- United Kingdom: Maxlimer by SEA-KIT performs deep-sea surveys autonomously, and Mast-13 focuses on defence and mine countermeasures.
- China: JARI USV is a multi-role combat vessel, and the Haidou AUV excels in deep-sea exploration.
- Japan: Sea-Kun and the Nippon Foundation’s Blue Sea Project enhance cargo automation and marine biodiversity monitoring.
- South Korea: Haeseong is a mine-clearing vessel, while Samsung’s marine drones reduce operational costs.
Key Benefits and Future Prospects:
- Expanded Operational Reach: Enhances the Navy’s ability to monitor maritime activities and secure sea lanes.
- Future Deployments: Paves the way for autonomous vehicles in coastal surveillance, ocean research, and anti-piracy missions.
- Commitment to Aatmanirbharta: Reflects India’s dedication to self-reliance in defence technology, demonstrating indigenous innovation in unmanned systems.
