New Delhi tests its first underwater robot (VIDEO)
India’s High Endurance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle will equip its navy with more surveillance capabilities
India announced on Monday the successful testing of its High Endurance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (HEAUV), developed by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL).
The NTSL is a defense research laboratory based in Visakhapatnam on the southeastern coast of India. The HEAUV underwent trials in a lake, demonstrating its capabilities in both surface and submerged conditions through multiple runs. The location of the testing was not disclosed.
These unmanned underwater robots vary in size from a few hundred to several thousand pounds. They are capable of gliding from the surface of the ocean to the depths and back, or stopping, hovering, and moving in a manner similar to blimps or helicopters.
The HEAUV is designed for high endurance, allowing it to operate for extended periods without needing to resurface or recharge frequently. This is essential for missions that require long-duration underwater operations, such as ocean floor mapping, surveillance, intelligence gathering, and oceanographic studies, according to industry watchers.
The AUV is equipped with anti-submarine warfare and advanced sensors to detect and track other submarines.
High Endurance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle currently under development by NSTL has been successfully tested in lake. During the trials vehicle dynamics was proven in both surface and submerged condition through multiple runs with perfect performance of Sonars and Communication pic.twitter.com/8vn02qe76B
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) March 30, 2025
The HEAUV’s advanced technology and capabilities will enhance India’s naval operations, providing a strategic advantage in the region. With its ability to operate for extended periods, the HEAUV will be able to gather critical data and intelligence, supporting India’s national security interests.
The development of the HEAUV is part of efforts to achieve self-reliance in defense technology, in line with initiatives such as the ‘Make in India’ program, a brainchild of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Recently, the Indian military designated more than 5,000 items as essential for domestic production, prioritizing their manufacture within the country.