AUV-150

Lore & Background

The AUV-150 is a cylindrical unmanned underwater vehicle with a streamlined fairing to reduce hydrodynamic drag. It features a pressurized cabin essential for the diving and flotation system, enhancing sealing against water leakage. The vehicle is propelled by water-jet propulsion with thrusters controlling surge, sway, heave, pitch, and yaw while preventing roll, and two arrays of cross-fins at the ends provide additional stability. Its navigation suite includes an inertial navigation system, depth sonar, altimeter, doppler velocity log, global positioning system via ultra-short baseline system, and forward looking sonar for obstacle evasion. The payload comprises an underwater video camera capable of sending wireless video pictures to a surface monitor, side scan sonar, a CTD (conductivity-temperature-depth) recorder, and sensors for orientation, current, and speed. Communication uses a hybrid system: radio frequency on the surface and acoustic underwater. Power is supplied by a lithium polymer battery, enabling operation at depths up to 150 metres at speeds of 2–4 knots.

Reader's Guide

The AUV-150 represents a significant step in India's indigenous development of autonomous underwater vehicles for dual-use applications in security and science. Its design emphasizes autonomous operation with an onboard computer pre-programmed for preset depths, trajectories, and return-to-base functions, while a remote control option allows for special tasks. The vehicle underwent sheltered freshwater tests in January 2010 at the Kulamavu reservoir in Idukki, Kerala, chosen for its association with the Indian Navy and its depth. Preliminary tests lasted seven to eight days with satisfactory results, followed by final still-water trials between September and October 2010. Sea trials commenced off the Chennai coast on 13 July 2011, with diving depths increased in stages to 35 m, 79.86 m, and 119.95 m, culminating on 17 July 2011 at the specified depth of 150 m despite extreme rough sea conditions (Sea-state 4). Minor issues were noted in recording video frames. The AUV-150's capabilities in coastal monitoring, mine counter-measures, and environmental data collection position it as a versatile platform for India's maritime interests.

Did You Know?

• The AUV-150 weighs 490 kg and is 4.8 metres long with a diameter of 50 cm.
• It reached its specified depth of 150 metres on 17 July 2011 during sea trials off the Chennai coast.
• The vehicle uses a hybrid communication system: radio frequency on the surface and acoustic underwater.
• Its freshwater tests were conducted at the Kulamavu reservoir in Idukki, Kerala, under tight security.