SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Navy is actively supporting the development of Extra-Large Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (XLUUVs) as a key tool for safeguarding the vast Indian Ocean region. These advanced underwater drones hold immense potential for underwater surveillance and strategic missions.
The Navy anticipates deploying nearly two dozen XLUUVs to patrol the Indian Ocean seabed, with a prime focus on detecting Chinese submarines operating in the region.
The XLUUVs won’t be limited to just submarine detection. They’ll be equipped with versatile sensors to identify hostile warships as well. Additionally, these underwater drones will boast modular payload bays. These bays can be configured with various equipment combinations, allowing the XLUUVs to undertake a wide range of missions.
A crucial aspect of the XLUUV program lies in maximizing its operational autonomy. The goal is to enable these underwater drones to function independently for extended periods, minimizing the need for constant surface support.
One of the primary hurdles in operating UUVs underwater is communication. Radio waves cannot penetrate water effectively, making it difficult to maintain real-time control from surface ships or land stations.
The Indian Navy envisions deploying these XLUUVs primarily in the strategically important Malacca Strait, a vital chokepoint for entry into the IOR via the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This strategic positioning will allow for comprehensive monitoring of the region’s underwater activity.
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