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Surface Vessel Navigation For Defense Applications

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By

Anthony Full

Problem We Solve

In an environment without landmarks, naval vessel crews require precise navigation, autonomy and endurance. Moreover, with the threat on GNSS Global navigation satellite system (GNSS): A general term describing any satellite constellation that provides positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services on a global or regional basis. See also signal jamming and spoofing, ship operators need ways to protect against GPS satellite signal threats and ensure that they know where they are and where they are headed. Operating in a GNSS-denied environment presents challenges to most navigation systems, because they can either be jammed, or deceptively guided off course via spoofing attacks.


The Argonyx serves as an exceptional navigation solution by providing dependable position and heading data without relying on GPS satellite signals. This allows sea vessels to maintain their course and positional awareness seamlessly, even in the absence of GPS connectivity. The Argonyx offers essential current-location data and guarantees the operational continuity of other navigation equipment throughout the mission.


Why Is It Important

Accurate navigation and positioning are crucial for strategic mission planning, execution, and coordination with allied units. Navigation errors can lead to mission failure, unintended engagements, or friendly fire incidents. Sea vessels, from nimble patrol boats to massive aircraft carriers, must navigate through diverse marine environments where traditional GPS signals may be weak or obstructed. These environments can range from the open sea to coastal areas near adversaries employing electronic warfare to disrupt GPS signals. Ensuring precise navigation under such conditions is vital for mission success and the safety of crew and vessel. A robust navigation system like the Argonyx, capable of providing real-time location and guidance to the next waypoint, is indispensable for maritime defense applications.



Even when a vessel enters a GNSS-denied zone, the Argonyx enables it to proceed along its intended route and minimizes drift, a common issue when external signals are not available for navigation. Over time, relying solely on an internal navigation system without external checks can lead to decreasing accuracy.


The accuracy needed for waypoint navigation varies based on specific operational requirements, which we address with our tailored solutions.


Of course, there are different grades of accuracy for waypoint navigation depending on your needs. And we’ll cover the most relevant solutions next.


How We Solve it

Developed for the demanding needs of naval operations, the Argonyx offers reliable route guidance in environments where GNSS signals are compromised. Utilizing advanced inertial navigation system (INS) technology based on HRG (Hemispherical Resonator Gyro), the Argonyx does not depend on external satellite signals for navigation and heading. Instead, it calculates the vessel’s position, orientation, and velocity using onboard motion and rotation sensors. The system provides the vessel’s current location and intended position data to the ship’s navigation or combat management system, maintaining accurate positioning for up to 72 hours.


ARGONYX INERTIAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM


The Argonyx is a battle-tested INS solution tailored for sea vessels, enhancing their navigation and combat management capabilities. Its rugged design ensures a long and maintenance-free service life. The system achieves exceptional heading accuracy (<0.01° RMS) through HRG Crystal technology and offers quick and adaptable alignment, even in GNSS-denied conditions.



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