New High-Resolution Marine Radar Introduced to Advance Autonomous Navigation

The newly launched MAS10 is a 77GHz FMCW marine radar from Navtech, designed as an ultra-high-definition W-band system to enhance navigation safety in congested environments under all weather conditions.

Developed in partnership with leading marine technology experts, the MAS10 is tailored for maritime autonomy, providing a specialized solution capable of handling diverse environmental challenges.

As maritime traffic continues to increase and autonomous vessels become more prominent, precision in navigation is more vital than ever. The MAS10 provides centimetre-level resolution, enabling vessels to sense and identify even the smallest hazards in heavily trafficked waterways.

In contrast to optical and infrared sensors, its W-band radar technology penetrates fog, heavy rain, and snow, ensuring reliable and consistent detection. It excels in low-visibility scenarios, operating effectively in complete darkness, intense sunlight, and shadowed areas where cameras and LiDAR struggle.

Designed with developers in mind, the MAS10 offers seamless integration with both existing and emerging autonomous systems. Its open architecture, standardized APIs, and extensive SDK support enable easy connectivity with navigation software, sensor fusion platforms, and AI-driven vessel control systems. The plug-and-play design ensures quick deployment, with adaptable data formats for customization and real-time processing.

Built to endure harsh marine environments, the MAS10 features a ruggedized construction suited for mission-critical applications. Its resistance to sea spray and mist ensures reliable performance, while its ability to withstand wind and turbulence guarantees continuous tracking, even in challenging conditions, making it an essential tool for safe and effective navigation.

Rachael O’Connor, marine business development manager at Navtech Radar, said, “Uncrewed vessels are set to revolutionise maritime operations across numerous applications and markets, from energy to border control. However they face a critical gap in sensor technology for situational awareness in congested waterways. Conventional radars excel at long-range detection, but new challenges demand more advanced solutions.

“The MAS10 radar is purpose-built for marine automation, combining 1km range with centimetre-level precision and all-weather reliability. The MAS10’s high-resolution imaging enables machine-learning-powered classification, setting a new standard for safe and intelligent navigation. With 25 years of Navtech expertise, the MAS10 is designed to enable safer and smarter navigation for the future of maritime operations.”

Matthew Ratsey, founder and managing director of Zero USV, also stated, “High-definition short range (up to 1km) radar are vital in completing ‘the picture’. When you are totally reliant on your sensor pack for your autonomous navigation, ensuring you have the complete picture is vital.

“Navtech’s MAS10 is such a unit, the definition and quality to pick up even the smallest of targets in cluttered environments is vital for the autonomous industry to continue seeking the goal of ‘jetty to jetty’ navigation where busy harbours still represent a significant challenge.

“With over 6,000 radar deployments in mission-critical environments worldwide, Navtech continues to lead the way in radar innovation. The MAS10 represents the next evolution in marine situational awareness, empowering the future of autonomous navigation with unmatched precision, reliability, and intelligence.”