Page 53 - navstrat

NAVSTRAT-2030

CHAPTER 6

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

Overview
In an increasingly technology-driven environment, world navies are highly dependent on a wide
range of technologies. These technologies cover ship designing, navigation, communication,
weapon systems and surveillance in three dimensions, space-based technologies, environmental
monitoring and presently with more concern on cyber security, AI technology, unmanned,
autonomous and mechanized systems. Sri Lanka, being a maritime nation situated strategically
important location in the Indian Ocean, relies heavily on maritime trades, maritime commerce and
other activities. As a vital component of the nation’s defence, there cannot be a significant
technology gap in between SLN and other state and non-state actors. Hence, it is essential to equip
SLN with cutting-edge technologies to strengthen the capabilities. This can be achieved by
managing, sharing and investing in acquisitions, force strengthening, innovations and international
collaborations.

The acquisition of sophisticated platforms and latest technology mostly depends on the financial
feasibility of the country and diplomatic relations. However, in the recent past the attempt made
by SLN to upgrade or replace the obsolete and costly systems with viable, cost-effective home-
grown technical solutions has filled the said technological gap to an extent while saving a
substantial amount of public money. The Return on Investment (ROI) of innovations and re-
engineering projects done by SLN using the knowledge and experience of expert naval
professionals is significantly higher than the budgetary allocation.

Accordingly, the following key areas of technology and innovation are to be considered for the
next five years and beyond to enhance the SLN’s capabilities;

Unmanned Systems and Autonomous Vehicles

Unmanned systems will replace costly manpower and reduce the risk to humans in dangerous
situations. The advantages of introducing unmanned autonomous systems/vehicles for activities
including maritime surveillance, security check points, and medicine distribution instead of
manual checking by humans are as follows;

● Efficient real-time surveillance and reconnaissance
● Deterrence
● Flexibility and adaptability
● Safety and reduction of risk to human
● Extended range and endurance
● Swarm capability
● Ability to maintain the surprise
● Capability of integrating with other naval systems
● Target acquisition, tracking and launching precision strikes on designated targets
● Logistics support in distress
● Capability to carry out search and rescue missions
● As a part of electronic warfare (use as jammers or hackers)
● Mine detectors and clearance
● Border protection
● Training and simulation
● Cost-effectiveness

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