A significant step is being taken to elevate India's maritime security to new heights. The Indian Navy is soon to induct the indigenous unmanned boat 'Matangi' into its fleet, which falls under the category of Autonomous Surface Vessels.
New Delhi: The unmanned boat, or Autonomous Survey Vessel, 'Matangi' is soon to be inducted into the Indian Navy, which will significantly enhance the Navy's surveillance and mine clearance capabilities. Currently, four boats are in the process of being handed over to the Navy, and a total of 12 such indigenous boats are being prepared. Two of these boats will also be provided to the Indian Army. Built entirely with indigenous technology, these boats will further strengthen India's defense capabilities.
These unmanned boats are being manufactured by the indigenous company Sagar Defence. Nikunj, the company's founder, stated that all 12 boats are being prepared in different phases, with four currently in the induction phase. These boats can travel at speeds of 60 to 65 kilometers per hour and can be operated via satellite. They will also be equipped with guns and have the capability to carry loitering munitions.
Production of 12 Unmanned Boats, 4 to be Inducted Soon
According to information, a total of 12 unmanned 'Matangi' boats are being built, of which 4 are currently in the induction phase and will soon be handed over to the Indian Navy. Two of these boats will also be provided to the Indian Army, further strengthening surveillance and security in coastal and border areas. This marks the first time such advanced autonomous marine boats have been indigenously manufactured in India.
The most significant features of the 'Matangi' unmanned boat are its high speed and fully remote operational capability. This boat can travel at a speed of 60 to 65 kilometers per hour and can be operated via satellite communication. It is equipped with modern navigation systems, real-time data transmission, and high-capacity sensors, enabling it to operate at sea for extended periods without human intervention.
Revolutionary Leap in Mine Clearance and Surveillance
'Matangi' will primarily be used for maritime surveillance, patrolling, and mine clearance. Detecting and neutralizing naval mines laid by the enemy is an extremely risky task for the Navy. With the introduction of this unmanned boat, this task can be performed without any human risk, thereby ensuring the safety of personnel.
Experts are also calling 'Matangi' a "water drone." It utilizes Swarm Technology, similar to how drones operate in formations in the sky. This means that multiple Matangi boats can connect via a network to execute a mission together. If the mission control station or a control boat is damaged for any reason, another boat connected to the swarm network automatically assumes the role of mission control, and all boats collectively complete the assigned mission.
Equipped with Artificial Intelligence, Self-Avoiding Collisions
This boat is equipped with an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based system. When it is on patrol and encounters another boat, fishing vessel, or any obstacle, it automatically steers left or right to avoid a collision. This technology makes it completely safe and reliable. Through this, the Navy will continuously receive live video feeds and real-time data, allowing for close monitoring of every activity at sea.
Besides surveillance, 'Matangi' is also fully capable of performing combat roles. Weapons such as guns and loitering munitions can be installed on it. If necessary, it can be sent close to the enemy to launch precise attacks from a distance. This will also lead to an unprecedented increase in the Navy's strike capabilities.
