SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is seeking an innovative Indian startup to develop a next-generation underwater vehicle under its Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme. This groundbreaking project aims to create an Underwater Launched Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (ULAUV) capable of enhancing India’s underwater military capabilities.
The ULAUV is designed to be deployed from underwater platforms, significantly extending their reach and capabilities. Imagine a submarine discreetly launching a drone to gather intelligence, conduct surveillance, or even carry out reconnaissance missions. This ULAUV will be a game-changer for underwater ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) operations.
But the ULAUV’s functionalities extend far beyond ISR. The DRDO envisions this drone playing a crucial role in various underwater missions, including:
- Mine Counter Measures (MCM): The ULAUV can be used to detect and potentially neutralize mines, safeguarding underwater routes for Indian vessels.
- Deception Operations: The ULAUV’s ability to operate autonomously makes it ideal for creating diversions and confusing enemy forces.
Technical Specifications: A Look Under the Hood
The DRDO has outlined some key performance parameters for the ULAUV:
- Speed: The ULAUV must have a minimum speed of 5 knots (nautical miles per hour) even in still water conditions.
- Endurance: The ULAUV needs to stay operational for at least 24 hours while cruising, allowing for extended missions.
- Deployment Cycle: The ULAUV should be designed for a minimum operational cycle of 18 months, ensuring long-term usability.
- Silent Power: The ULAUV’s electric motor and propeller need to be optimized for both high efficiency and minimal acoustic noise, maintaining stealth during operations.
- Navigation Precision: An Inertial Navigation System (INS) and differential GPS with anti-jamming features will ensure accurate navigation and mission completion even in challenging environments.
- Data Gathering: The ULAUV will be equipped with sensors to detect both surface and subsurface contacts. It will also be able to record acoustic and visual data of targets for further analysis.
- Communication: The ULAUV should be able to transmit gathered information to other underwater platforms using an acoustic communication link.
- Homing Capability: The ULAUV should have a homing feature that allows it to return to a designated location or respond to the distress frequency of a disabled underwater platform.
- Power Management: An efficient power and battery management system is crucial for extended underwater operations.
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