The Internet of Things (IoT) in the military or the Internet of Military Things (IoMT) has numerous applications in the naval sector, including the collection of battlefield intelligence, augmented reality-based remote training, autonomous reconnaissance, and fleet and logistics management. Maritime IoT solutions are becoming a mainstay of modern naval defence forces.
IoMT is projected to be used along with other technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) to exploit the vast amount of data collected by connected devices in the navy.
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Naval Technology has listed some of the leading companies providing products and services related to IoT, based on its intel, insights, and decades-long experience in the sector.
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Maritime IoT solutions deployed by navies
Some of the examples of IoT deployments by navies and defence forces around the world are discussed below:
US Navy
The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is undertaking Ocean of Things programme, which aims at using maritime IoT solutions and technology for improving situational awareness. The programme plans to use an extensive network of sensors onboard commercially available floats to autonomously detect, track and identify military, commercial, and civilian vessels, as well as other indicators of maritime activity.
The navy is also developing a range of unmanned surface vessels (USVs), which are planned to be used along with traditional forces to improve warfighting capabilities.
UK Royal Navy
The UK Royal Navy has outlined plans to develop autonomous technology led by UK Naval Engineering Science and Technology (UKNEST). The programme plans to develop several autonomous vehicles, including autonomous boats, fast attack craft and underwater vehicles, which will be used for improved maritime situational awareness and reconnaissance.
The programme is part of the larger Persistent Operational Deployment Systems (PODS), which will provide state-of-the-art technologies and maritime IoT solutions to any naval vessel.
Australian Navy
The Australian Department of Defence’s Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) is working in partnership with start-ups and technology companies to develop IoMT for the Australian defence forces. One such partnership is with Thales Australia, which recently partnered with Ocius Technologies for the deployment and development of USVs equipped with anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and surveillance capabilities.
For full details (including contact details) on the leading maritime IoT solutions companies within this space, download the free Buyer’s Guide below:
Frequently asked questions
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What is the role of IoT in naval operations?
IoT (Internet of Things) enhances naval operations by enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and improved communication across naval vessels. IoT systems collect and share data from sensors, aiding in fleet management, logistics, and mission planning, while also improving situational awareness.
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How does IoT improve fleet management in the navy?
IoT-enabled systems allow naval forces to monitor vessel performance and predict maintenance needs in real-time, reducing downtime and enhancing operational efficiency. This helps optimise resource allocation and improves readiness for missions.
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What are the applications of IoT in maritime surveillance?
IoT is deployed in maritime surveillance through connected sensors that monitor vast ocean areas for security threats, weather conditions, and vessel traffic. These systems enhance intelligence collection and allow for quicker responses to potential threats.
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What are the security concerns with IoT in naval operations?
While IoT offers significant advantages, it introduces cybersecurity challenges due to the vast network of interconnected devices. Securing these systems from potential hacking and data breaches is critical for safeguarding sensitive military information.
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Which companies provide IoT solutions for naval operations?
Leading providers include Thales, Raytheon Technologies, and BAE Systems, which offer integrated IoT solutions for surveillance, fleet management, and mission-critical operations. These companies specialise in secure, scalable platforms designed for defence environments.