New Delhi: India has taken a significant step toward strengthening its underwater defence capabilities with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developing a new indigenous Man-Portable Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (MP-AUV). Designed to detect naval mines hidden beneath the sea, this compact underwater robot promises to enhance the Indian Navy’s mine-warfare operations.
Developed by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam, the MP-AUV is engineered to swiftly locate and identify sea mines—one of the biggest threats to ships, submarines and ports. Its lightweight design allows one or two personnel to easily deploy it anywhere at sea.
At the heart of the system lies advanced underwater sensing technology. The vehicle is equipped with a state-of-the-art side-scan sonar, capable of producing detailed images of the seabed using sound waves. An underwater camera provides visual confirmation, allowing the robot to identify suspicious objects resembling mines with high accuracy.
What makes the MP-AUV stand out is its deep-learning-based AI algorithm. This onboard intelligence helps the robot automatically differentiate between harmless objects and actual mines—tasks that previously required trained naval operators and consumed valuable time. The AI-enabled classification significantly reduces human error and speeds up mine-hunting missions.
Another major enhancement is underwater acoustic communication, enabling multiple AUVs to operate together as a coordinated team. If one vehicle detects a potential mine-like object, it can instantly alert other units in the group, making the entire operation safer and more efficient.
Recent trials conducted at Visakhapatnam Harbour validated the system’s performance in real maritime conditions. DRDO confirmed that the MP-AUV met all key parameters during testing and demonstrated reliable detection capabilities.
A major advantage of the system is its mobility. Unlike many foreign mine-detection systems that are bulky and expensive, the MP-AUV is fully man-portable, lightweight, and requires minimal logistical support. Being entirely indigenous, it also reduces reliance on imported technologies.
Calling it a “major milestone,” DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat said the MP-AUV would greatly enhance the Navy’s ability to rapidly scan large areas and strengthen India’s maritime security architecture.
The emergence of this technology comes at a time when India faces expanding maritime challenges—from increased Chinese naval presence in the Indian Ocean to suspected submarine activity near critical sea lanes. The MP-AUV will help the Navy counter underwater threats more effectively.
DRDO expects the system to move into production within the coming months, with several industry partners already on board. Its deployment will mark a significant leap in India’s underwater surveillance and mine-countermeasure capabilities.
