IRS team led by Mr.
R. Srinivas, VP & HOD Electrical & Control System,
conducted a thorough review of the autonomy concept, system documentation,
software quality documentation and a detailed risk assessment in accordance
with IRS Guidelines for Remotely Operated Vessels and Autonomous Surface
Vessels.
IRS
rigorously tested the Autonomous Navigation System software at the
manufacturer’s development center
through simulation, as per approved Factory Acceptance Test procedure. The
autonomous configuration also includes a Remote-Control Centre (RCC),
specifically designed to control and or monitor the vessel from a remote
location.
Subsequent
to installation of the autonomous systems on board the tug, IRS verified system
functionality as per the approved Harbor Acceptance Test procedure. Remote control of propulsion and steering systems
from the RCC, as well as the monitoring of key machinery, navigation
parameters, and situational awareness system at Remote Control Centre were also
verified as part of harbour trials.
IRS witnessed the autonomous sea trials of the MDL tug
on 23rd and 24th May 2024 as per the approved Sea Acceptance Test procedure.
The trials successfully demonstrated collision avoidance in accordance with the
International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG), alongside
various emergency response measures such as handling the loss of primary
controls and communication with the RCC. The
Indian Navy provided essential support during these sea trials by deploying an
interceptor boat, contributing to the safety and success of the testing
process.
As demand for autonomous vessels grows in
mission-critical operations, the development of such systems presents
significant opportunities within the defence sector. The Government’s ‘Make in
India’ initiative further enhances prospects for Indian system developers and
shipyards.
Cdr. K.K. Dhawan, Head Defence of IRS said “This
collaboration underscores IRS commitment to advancement in the Indian maritime
industry through cutting-edge autonomous technology. Leveraging the experience
gained from this and similar projects,
IRS is well-positioned to assist the industry in developing advanced autonomous
systems while ensuring compliance with stringent safety and quality standards.’