Indra has launched a European port defense project featuring a combination of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, sonar, and unmanned underwater vehicles.
The 6-million-euro ($6.26-million) Smart Maritime and Underwater Guardian (SMAUG) project is based on Indra’s iSIM solution, featuring four main methods.
It includes acoustic detection of small autonomous underwater vehicles through a series of hydrophones.
Moreover, sonar is employed to scan the bottom of the harbor, while a high-resolution sonar inspection is employed for underwater detection of poorly visible objects.
Also included is a swarm of coordinated underwater drones to perform autonomous underwater detection of threats and illicit trafficking.
Apart from ports, the system could be deployed near coastal areas and maritime boundaries. Geopolitical tensions and the development of unmanned underwater vessels around the world enhance the project’s relevance.
”This project means significant progress in maritime security, as it reinforces safety and promotes international cooperation in the fight against illicit activities in the maritime environment,” head of Indra’s SMAUG project Juan Roman Martínez said.
SMAUG Project
Spain-based Indra is leading a consortium of 22 partners for the project from seven European countries: Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Norway, and Spain.
The research, development, and innovation project is part of the European Union’s Horizon Europe program.
The partners include universities, research centers, small and medium enterprises, law enforcement agencies, public authorities, coast and border guards, and private organizations.
As the project leader, Indra will employ its iSIM solution for analysis, integration, and processing of data from “physical security systems such as hydrophones, underwater scanners, drone swarms, and autonomous vehicles, along with satellite surveillance systems,” according to the company.
“It also takes information from port management systems, enabling a global and interoperable view that optimizes security, operational efficiency, and real-time decision-making.”
