Marine robotics can support port security operations, delivering autonomous and semi-autonomous capabilities that enhance situational awareness and threat interdiction in dynamic maritime environments. By leveraging unmanned platforms such as ROVs, UUVs, and USVs, port authorities and specialized port security units (PSUs) can gain access to continuous surveillance, detailed underwater inspection, and real-time response capabilities without exposing personnel to unnecessary risk.
The Importance of UUVs, ROVs, & AUVs for Port Authorities
Underwater unmanned systems such as ROVs and AUVs are used for monitoring and safeguarding port infrastructure below the surface. A national port authority may rely on these robotic systems to detect threats such as unauthorized divers, smuggling via underwater routes, and sabotage of underwater structures like piers and pipelines.
Mission Specialist Defender ROV by VideoRay
ROVs
Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) are highly effective tools for inspecting underwater assets. They can be equipped with high-definition cameras, sonar systems, and manipulators for inspecting and maintaining port infrastructure. ROVs can identify structural issues, locate hidden contraband, and survey submerged areas for any suspicious objects or activities.
A9-E AUV for Port Security by Exail
AUVs
Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) offer autonomous underwater surveillance, making them invaluable for long-term monitoring or patrolling. These systems can be programmed to follow specific routes or conduct detailed surveys, allowing port authorities to detect anomalies or potential threats such as underwater mines or unauthorized UUVs attempting to access restricted zones.
UUVs
Unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) can also be utilized for counter-smuggling operations. By scanning the seafloor, hulls of vessels, or cargo areas, they can uncover hidden compartments or contraband that might otherwise go undetected. UUVs are also crucial in detecting and neutralizing rogue underwater robotic systems, as well as explosive threats.
Persistent Surveillance with USVs
Unmanned surface vessels (USVs) are increasingly used to patrol port perimeters and restricted zones, enabling wide-area surveillance and autonomous threat identification above and below the waterline. These platforms operate day and night, navigating complex waterways with onboard sensors that include radar, EO/IR systems, AIS receivers, and bathymetric sonar for shallow-water monitoring. Deployed as part of a layered defense architecture, USVs can communicate with UUVs and fixed sensor networks to close gaps in situational coverage.
Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) by Teledyne Marine
By integrating marine robotics into surveillance operations, ports can establish continuous monitoring routines without overwhelming human operators. This persistent presence is vital for deterring smuggling activities and for enforcing compliance with international port facility security codes (ISPS).
Port facilities present complex challenges for maritime security, including submerged infrastructure, limited visibility, and the constant risk of illicit underwater activity. Unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) are key assets for underwater port security, capable of scanning hulls, docks, mooring lines, and seabed features for signs of tampering, unauthorized access, or concealed contraband. Equipped with advanced sonar arrays, optical imaging systems, and manipulator arms, these systems can autonomously or semi-autonomously identify foreign objects, detect anomalies, and support interdiction operations.
Gavia AUV for Port Security by Teledyne Marine
To counter underwater intrusions, sonar and acoustic detection systems can be employed to track unauthorized divers, swimmer delivery vehicles (SDVs), or unmarked submersibles in real time. This enables early-stage intervention, with operators receiving alerts through centralized security networks. In high-threat scenarios, these systems can be paired with non-lethal deterrents or signal relays to engage security teams onshore or onboard patrol vessels.
Autonomous Underwater Vehicle for maritime applications
Autonomous Underwater Vehicle for maritime applications
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