The Indian Navy has successfully developed and deployed an indigenous software that allows unmanned surface vessels to operate autonomously at sea.

The Advanced Autonomous Navigation & Control Software (A2NCS) has been jointly developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and the Navy’s Weapons and Electrical Engineering Systems Establishment (WESEE).

The software has been integrated into the Navy’s Fast Interceptor Boat (FIB), which has already been used for mine countermeasure missions and combat exercises, demonstrating its operational capabilities.

According to BEL, the software enables the boat to perform fully autonomous operations, even in dense maritime traffic, while maintaining safety. The A2NCS supports three modes of operation:

Remote-controlled mode, where operators control the vessel from a distance.

Autonomous waypoint navigation, where the vessel navigates independently within a designated area.

Fully autonomous mode, where the software takes full control of navigation and mission execution.

The software uses a network of sensors, including radar, AIS, EO/IR sensors, INS, and GPS, along with electronic navigation charts (ENC), to monitor its surroundings and avoid obstacles.

It also includes AI-driven situational awareness, cyber resilience, and fail-safe operational features.

A2NCS recently received IRClass certification from the Indian Register of Shipping, making it the first indigenously developed USV software in India to be certified for quality and reliability.

The certification followed extensive sea trials that tested compliance with international collision regulations (COLREGs) and the software’s safety features.

The development and deployment of A2NCS strengthens India’s indigenous defence capabilities and supports the “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” initiative.

Reference: BEL