American defense technology company Vatn Systems has introduced a new autonomous system called SIGURD that can detect underwater mines and safely clear them without risk.
The distinguishing feature of this system is that it uses two autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) in conjunction without needing to deploy manned vessels or divers into dangerous mine fields to track mines.
The first vehicle locates and tracks mines using a sonar system and confirms targets, while the second vehicle travels to that location to inspect and destroy the mines.
Responsible personnel can monitor and control the system depending on operational circumstances, and some functions of the system can also be set to operate autonomously.
The mine detection vehicle included in this system can dive to depths of up to 100 meters (328 feet) underwater and with a single battery charge can travel up to 30 nautical miles (56 kilometers) and operate underwater for approximately 6 hours.
Currently, the SIGURD system has been successfully tested with non-explosive mine dummies, and some government contractors are also studying its capabilities.
Although not yet officially approved as a formal U.S. Navy or Pentagon operational program, the company expects to begin using this system in the latter half of this year.
In naval warfare, underwater mines are the most cost-effective, but for shipping lines, ports, and naval vessels, they pose the greatest threat.
Previously, mine clearance required many specialized vessels and skilled divers, which was time-consuming and posed extremely high risks to life, but with the arrival of the SIGURD system like this, it will be possible to conduct faster, safer, and more effective mine clearance operations.
In the future, if these underwater systems are widely utilized, they will not only better protect global shipping lanes but also greatly reduce the concerns faced by maritime workers and mine clearance personnel.
Ref: Technology Innovation
