SOURCE : AFI
The Indian Navy has recently issued a Request for Information (RFI) for an advanced autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) that can be launched from undersea platforms. This initiative, known as the Underwater-Launched Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (ULAUV) project, aims to enhance the Navy’s capabilities in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), as well as mine-countermeasures (MCM) deception operations.
The RFI, released on 1 July, outlines the primary functions the ULAUV must perform. These include detecting both surface and subsurface targets and relaying target information to another underwater platform using an acoustic communication link. The vehicle should be capable of recording acoustic and visual data of targets for thorough analysis. Additionally, it must feature homing capabilities to detect the distress frequency of disabled underwater platforms, indicating a role in rescuing distressed submarines.
To meet the Indian Navy’s requirements, the ULAUV should achieve a maximum speed of at least 5 knots in calm water conditions and have an operational endurance exceeding 24 hours at cruising speeds. The propulsion system should be powered by an electric motor to ensure low acoustic noise, while navigation should be guided by an inertial navigation system and differential GPS equipped with anti-jamming features.
The RFI stipulates that the systems proposed must comply with the Indian Telecommunication Engineering Centre’s (TEC) standards for ruggedization, particularly for underwater environments. This ensures that the ULAUVs are robust and capable of operating in the demanding conditions typical of undersea missions.
Interested parties have until 16 July to respond to the RFI. The Indian Navy has specified that all correspondence regarding this RFI should be directed to India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).