Autonomous surface vessel completes 1,500-km voyage
- An autonomous surface vessel built by Sagar Defence Engineering has completed a 1,500-km voyage from Mumbai to Thoothukudi under without human intervention, in an endeavour supported by the Indian Navy.
Highlights:
- An autonomous surface vessel (ASV) developed by Sagar Defence Engineering completed a groundbreaking 1,500-kilometer journey from Mumbai to Thoothukudi without human intervention, marking a significant achievement in India's autonomous maritime capabilities.
Project Overview:
- Journey Details: Named Sagarmala Parikrama, this was the first autonomous journey of its kind in India, supported by the Indian Navy.
- Launch and Support: Virtually flagged off on October 29 by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during NIIO’s annual event, Swavlamban.
- Development Partners: Indian Navy's Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO), Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC), and the iDEX initiative under the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO).
Key Milestones and Significance:
- National Security Focus: The journey underscores India's capacity to develop indigenous autonomous systems, advancing the nation’s defense capabilities and reinforcing Aatmanirbharta in defense technology.
- Support and Collaboration: The Indian Navy provided testing facilities, operational insights, and guidance, helping Sagar Defence Engineering enhance the vessel’s capabilities.
Technological Advancements and Applications:
- Military and Civilian Use: The vessel aligns with global trends in autonomous surface and underwater technologies, serving various roles, including:
- Littoral patrol
- Coastal surveillance
- High-speed interdiction
- Low-intensity maritime operations
- Future Prospects
- This milestone sets the stage for the Indian Navy to deploy ASVs in key areas, such as:
- Protecting critical sea lanes
- Conducting coastal surveillance
- Engaging in anti-piracy missions
Prelims Takeaways
- Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC)
- Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO)
- Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO)