SOURCE: AFI
A groundbreaking development in autonomous naval technology was showcased this week as Sagar Defence’s Autonomous Weaponized Boat Swarm (AWBS) was spotted conducting trials in Mumbai waters. This deployment follows the Indian Navy’s approval last year for the acquisition of 12 units of these advanced vessels.
Designed and engineered by Pune-based Sagar Defence Engineering, the AWBS boasts a formidable array of capabilities. Equipped with dual cameras for surveillance, day and night radar tracking, and a powerful 12.7 mm SRCG gun, these unmanned boats are capable of neutralizing threats while being easily controlled from a remote station.
The AWBS’s versatility extends beyond its weapon systems. It is also integrated with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for enhanced situational awareness and can be operated in conjunction with multiple other boats from a single monitoring station. Furthermore, the boats rely on a combination of GPS and ISRO’s indigenous navigation system, NaVIC, ensuring reliable navigation even in challenging conditions.
Of the 12 AWBS units, the Indian Navy will retain 10 for its operations, while the remaining two will be allocated to the Indian Army for deployment at Pangong Lake. This strategic distribution reflects the versatility and adaptability of the AWBS, making it a valuable asset for both maritime and land-based forces.
The successful trials of the AWBS mark a significant milestone in India’s efforts to modernize its defense capabilities and embrace cutting-edge technologies. As these autonomous weaponized boats continue to evolve and be integrated into operational deployments, they are poised to play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime security.