The first ocean-going, multi-role unmanned surface vessel (USV) that the Indian Navy has created on its own that will be used for surveillance and minesweeping is currently undergoing testing.

The USV is designed for maritime reconnaissance, surveillance, and intelligence gathering.

According to Indian Navy sources, the vessel would be 15 metres long and capable of travelling at a top speed of more than 30 knots. With a “static and dynamic” obstacle collision avoidance system, it will operate on its own.

The Weapon and Electronic Systems Engineering Establishment (WESEE), Bharat Electronic Ltd (BEL), Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), and others collaborated to design and develop the boat.

The already-built boat was scheduled to undergo testing from Goa to Mumbai in June, but due to the rains in Mumbai, the testing will instead take place in November.

The boat will be able to navigate on its own in crowded maritime conditions, according to sources. It uses a computer-based software algorithm to function. A situational awareness powered by artificial intelligence (AI) will be installed on the ship.

It will be fitted with a range of sensors, including GPS, AIS, LiDAR, Radar, and electro-optical cameras.

The ship currently purchases its engine from an Indian vendor, but it was made abroad. The boat is propelled by two waterjets and two 500 horsepower diesel engines.

According to sources, the wireless link to the remote-control station would allow for man-in-the-loop operations, which would let it to run without a person on board.

The source responded when asked if the boat would be used for offensive missions: “You have to build up capability first and you may alter it based on scenarios. No nation now employs its autonomous vessels for offensive operations in the world.