Enhancing Maritime Security with India's New MP-AUVs

Key Features of the MP-AUV System

India has expanded its undersea surveillance capabilities with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developing a new generation of man-portable autonomous underwater vehicles (MP-AUVs). The system is designed to strengthen rapid mine detection and improve naval preparedness across critical coastal regions.

• The newly developed AUVs operate fully autonomously and are equipped with side-scan sonar and underwater cameras. These payloads enable real-time detection and identification of mine-like threats during maritime missions.
• Compact and lightweight, each unit can be easily deployed from small naval vessels, enhancing operational flexibility.

Advanced Recognition Technologies

A significant innovation in the MP-AUV system is the integration of deep-learning-based recognition algorithms. These technologies allow automatic classification of underwater objects, reducing operator workload and improving mission accuracy. The enhanced processing capability also ensures consistent and reliable data collection during high-risk operations.

Role of DRDO's NSTL

The project has been developed by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam, a premier DRDO facility dedicated to naval systems and underwater technologies. NSTL has been instrumental in delivering advanced platforms that strengthen India's maritime defence architecture.

Strategic Importance for Maritime Security

The introduction of the MP-AUVs significantly enhances India's underwater mine-countermeasure capability. Their autonomous functioning makes them ideal for coastal surveillance, harbor protection, and sensitive maritime operations. The system is expected to play an important role in strengthening India's preparedness in the evolving maritime security landscape.