In a significant step towards self-reliance in maritime technology, the Technology Development Board (TDB), a statutory body under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), has committed its support to M/s Xalten Systems Pvt. Ltd. for the development of an advanced indigenous acoustic antenna system. This cutting-edge project aims to revolutionize underwater communication by enabling high data rate transmission, including real-time video, between autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).
The project, formally titled “Development of High-Performance Acoustic Antenna System for Underwater High Data Rate Communication for Video Transmission,” will focus on creating sophisticated hydrophone array sensors. These sensors are designed to facilitate reliable and high-bandwidth data exchange in the challenging underwater environment, a capability currently dominated by foreign technologies that often prioritize long range over high speed.
By integrating precision acoustic sensing with software-defined communication frameworks, the initiative seeks to overcome existing technological gaps. This will empower swarms of AUVs to collaborate effectively, opening new avenues in offshore energy exploration, deep-sea scientific research, and critical strategic operations. The project is being undertaken in collaboration with Subnero Pte Ltd, Singapore, bringing together global expertise to foster indigenous innovation.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary, TDB, emphasized the strategic importance of the project. “Advanced underwater communication systems are critical for India’s maritime research, offshore infrastructure, and strategic sectors. By supporting the development and commercialization of high-performance indigenous acoustic technologies, we are not only addressing a critical national need but also positioning India as a key player in the emerging blue economy,” he stated.
A key objective of the project is to establish scalable manufacturing capabilities within India for these advanced acoustic sensors. This move is expected to significantly reduce the country’s dependence on imports, strengthen the domestic marine technology ecosystem, and contribute to the government’s broader vision of an ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) in the maritime domain.