In a bid to fortify the security of berthed warships, the Navy is set to adopt “force protection measures” involving the deployment of a cluster of high-power underwater sensors, diver detection sensors and high-definition sensors for surveillance — surface and sub-surface — of naval wharfs and jetties.The high-priority Integrated Underwater Harbour Defence Surveillance System (IUHDSS) is currently in various stages of implementation around naval quays in Mumbai, Visakhapatnam, Kochi and Port Blair.
The project is said to cost around Rs. 270 crore. “The process of installation is going on and the plan is to operationalise it by December this year,” said an officer.
High-level sources told The Hindu that the plans to cast a network of electro-optical sensors, thermal imaging sensors, radars and diver detection sensors around naval jetties are part of the measures envisaged in the aftermath of 26/11, to augment security around the coast and high-value naval assets.
The multi-agency Joint Operations Centres (JOC) at these naval locations will receive real-time images relayed by these sensors, with the command and control vested with the coastal defence commanders — Flag Officers Commanding-in-Chief in respect of the three naval commands and the Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar joint services Command.
“There is already the specialised Sagar Prahari Bal ensuring security of vital naval installations and assets stationed along the coast. The underwater sensor network will help neutralise asymmetric sub-surface threats,” said a source.
