The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed a new generation of Man-portable Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (MP-AUVs) for mine countermeasure operations. Developed by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam, the MP-AUVs are equipped with advanced sensors and autonomous capabilities to detect and classify mine-like objects in real time.
The system integrates multiple AUVs with Side Scan Sonar and underwater cameras as primary payloads. Onboard deep learning-based target recognition algorithms allow autonomous classification, reducing operator workload and mission time significantly. A robust underwater acoustic communication system enables inter-AUV data exchange, enhancing situational awareness during operations.
Field trials recently conducted at NSTL/Harbour have validated critical system parameters and mission objectives. Several industry partners contributed to the development, and the MP-AUV system is expected to enter production in the coming months.
Secretary of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman, Dr Samir V. Kamat, lauded the NSTL team for the achievement, describing it as a significant milestone in developing deployable, intelligent, and networked solutions for naval mine warfare. According to him, the MP-AUV system offers rapid response capability with reduced operational risk and a smaller logistical footprint, marking a major advancement in mine countermeasure technology.