Man-Portable Autonomous Underwater Vehicles: Applications in Maritime Security

Introduction: Man-portable autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) are compact underwater robotic systems designed to operate with limited or no direct human control during a mission. They are useful for underwater surveys, inspection and maritime security.

Key pointers

  • Technology: Autonomous underwater robotics.

  • Operation: Navigate underwater using programmed instructions, onboard sensors and control systems.

  • Propulsion: Typically use electric propulsion systems.

  • Navigation: May use inertial navigation, depth sensors, acoustic positioning and other underwater navigation technologies.

  • Applications: Underwater mapping, inspection of ports and infrastructure, marine research and environmental monitoring.

  • Defence applications: Depending on design, may support mine-countermeasure surveys, seabed mapping and inspection of sensitive maritime infrastructure.

  • Difference from ROVs: Remotely operated vehicles are generally controlled through a communication link, whereas AUVs can execute missions autonomously.

  • Communication challenge: Radio-frequency signals do not travel efficiently through seawater, so underwater systems often rely on acoustic communication or store data onboard.

  • Limitations: Battery life, underwater navigation accuracy, communication range and payload capacity can constrain performance.

UPSC focus: Distinguish autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) from remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous surface vessels. Do not assume that every portable AUV has weapon-carrying capability.