Unleash the power of autonomy
Saab has developed Autonomous Ocean Core control system to provide autonomy capabilities to small and medium sized naval platforms in military and civilian missions. Operators simply input the vessel’s parameters into the motion control function to enable un-crewed operation.
The system is ready to perform tasks with or without added functionality. With safety assured, it provides a solid foundation for expanding autonomy capabilities through Saabs continuous development and third-party collaborations.
Autonomous Ocean Core is a vessel-agnostic control system with an open architecture, designed for easy integration with driveline, propulsion, and vessel automation systems. It can be installed on new craft or retrofitted to crewed vessels, enabling plug-and-play payload integration so users can focus on mission capabilities without developing basic control and safety systems.
Autonomous Ocean Core system is open and scalable, designed to support the development of capabilities for future intelligent units. Alongside Saab’s ongoing advancements in naval autonomy, the system also supports third-party development and customized, confidential applications. Always with a secure core system as the solid foundation.
In autonomy and vessel control, the simplest tasks often pose the toughest technical challenges, especially with high-inertia, high-energy craft. Autonomous Ocean Core system is engineered to meet those demands, with built-in capabilities that ensure safety and predictability from the start - whether it’s departing, docking, navigating mission zones, or avoiding obstacles.
Saab has a technological edge and complete product portfolio for providing multiple capabilities of an un-crewed system. We deliver a range of technology including navigation systems, electronic warfare, Remote Operated Vehicles, Advanced Radar systems, EO sensors & effectors and more. Autonomous Ocean Core can be delivered as part of a complete un-crewed system or stand alone. Our wide range of products and solutions for the naval domain, as well as air, land, and security, in combination with our expertise in system integration, provide system-of-systems solutions with endless capabilities.
The Fleet Management system, part of Autonomous Ocean Core, transforms units into networked services, providing command with a comprehensive view of all autonomous assets. This powerful system enables seamless handovers between maintenance personnel and mission specialists, even if located remotely. Through Fleet Management, each unit’s utilization is maximized, delivering both efficiency and operational flexibility.
Operating in real-world conditions
The Autonomous Ocean Core control system manages un-crewed vessels, maintaining safety and predictability throughout.
How it works
System architecture
Autonomous Ocean Core consists of three integrated subsystems.
The control system is implemented on a remotely controlled vessel. Different capability packages can be added indefinitely to create an array of applications for different tasks and missions. The vessel can be controlled from the remote control center, placed on land, at sea or in the air. The fleet management system enables efficient management of Autonomous Ocean Core-driven units, a unique strength of the system.
Manoeuvre Modes
The system operates across four distinct modes. Each mode supports precise control and operational flexibility based on mission needs:
- Mission manoeuvre is used from the time the vessel departs until it returns to port. In this mode, the user can set one or more mission points. Each point can have instructions that activate different capabilities, behaviors, and payloads.
- Vector manoeuvre is used for precise control when moving to or from the quay, or for fine-tuning the vessel’s position during a mission.
- Direct manoeuvre is a fallback control, primarily used to recover the vessel if the main link goes down.
- Position hold is a resting state used when no other mode is active.
Operational modes
The system can be configured to operate in three different manners, each tailored to specific operational needs and safety requirements:
- Local Safety Mode: Designed for training, it requires activation of a safety switch onboard by a crew member or remote supervision. It allows full vessel performance under controlled supervision for safe, guided training.
- External Safety Mode: Incorporates enhanced safety margins within designated zones. If connection is lost, the vessel stops automatically. This mode prioritizes safety while limiting performance or availability.
- Assault Mode: Unrestricted, allowing the vessel to operate without a continuous link and with no performance limits, intended for high-risk situations needing maximum operational autonomy.
Each capability can also be customized with specific behaviors according to the selected operation mode.
Built-in fallback strategies
The system features robust fallback strategies for any foreseeable situation. If the vessel struggles to hold position due to weather, it automatically adjusts to face the wind or stops if necessary, staying within protective margins.
In extreme cases, a signal can cut engine ignition, activate NUC status, and deploy anchors or similar equipment to minimize motion. Each response adapts to the current operational mode, ensuring safety and control in all conditions.
Why autonomy?
The development of unmanned autonomous units is progressing across all naval domains, becoming a pivotal asset in protecting our way of life and ensuring our oceans remain open and safe.
These unmanned units excel in missions that are difficult, require exceptional endurance, or are too dangerous for crewed counterparts. Typical tasks include surveillance, intelligence gathering, communication, and logistics.
Together, these functions enhance key operational strengths: effect, intelligence, mobility, command, endurance, and protection.
Saabs continuous development
Fast-track innovation with proven hardware and real-world expertise
Through the Skapa initiative, Saab integrated Autonomous Ocean Core onto its Enforcer 3.1 platform in San Diego, enabling developers to test systems on solid hardware. The Enforcer 3.2 in Sweden further supports agile development, blending existing solutions with new software to quickly build advanced capabilities. Saab’s 24-hour global research loop accelerates innovation, leveraging expertise from teams across the US and Europe. Our software developers, who are also combat boat operators, design solutions with maritime knowledge, ensuring rapid, targeted solutions for clients.