High-Definition Marine Radar Expected to Enhance Ocean Safety

Navtech has launched its 77GHz FMCW marine radar MAS10, an ultra-high-definition W-band system for all-weather navigation enabling safer maneuvering in crowded waterways.

Developed in collaboration with leading marine technology providers, Navtech Radar’s MAS10 is designed to meet the specific needs of maritime autonomy, providing a specialized solution that can handle all-weather environments.

Unlike optical and infrared sensors, its W-band radar technology cuts through fog, heavy rain, and snow, providing clear and consistent detection. It excels in low visibility conditions, functioning seamlessly in darkness, bright sunlight, and shadowed areas where cameras and LIDAR often struggle.

The MAS10 radar is designed with developers in mind, offering seamless integration into existing and emerging autonomous systems. With open architecture, standardised APIs, and comprehensive SDK support, it enables effortless connectivity with navigation software, sensor fusion platforms, and AI-driven vessel control systems. Its plug-and-play design enables quick setup, with flexible data formats for customization and real-time processing.

Built with a ruggedised design specifically for mission critical marine applications, the MAS10 withstands sea spray and mist, ensuring accurate performance. And its resistance to wind and turbulence guarantees uninterrupted tracking, even in rough conditions, making it essential for safe and efficient navigation.

The MAS10 launches as maritime traffic reaches unprecedented levels and autonomous vessels take centre stage, making precision more critical than ever. The MAS10 offers centimetre-level resolution, allowing vessels to identify and classify even the smallest hazards in congested waterways.

Rachael O’Connor, marine business development manager at Navtech Radar, commented, “Uncrewed vessels are set to revolutionise maritime operations across numerous applications and markets, from energy to border control. However they face a critical gap in sensor technology for situational awareness in congested waterways. Conventional radars excel at long-range detection, but new challenges demand more advanced solutions.

“The MAS10 radar is purpose-built for marine automation, combining 1km range with centimetre-level precision and all-weather reliability. The MAS10’s high-resolution imaging enables machine-learning-powered classification, setting a new standard for safe and intelligent navigation. With 25 years of Navtech expertise, the MAS10 is designed to enable safer and smarter navigation for the future of maritime operations.”

Matthew Ratsey, founder and managing director of Zero USV, also stated, “High-definition short range (up to 1km) radar are vital in completing ‘the picture’. When you are totally reliant on your sensor pack for your autonomous navigation, ensuring you have the complete picture is vital.

“Navtech’s MAS10 is such a unit, the definition and quality to pick up even the smallest of targets in cluttered environments is vital for the autonomous industry to continue seeking the goal of ‘jetty to jetty’ navigation where busy harbours still represent a significant challenge.

“With over 6,000 radar deployments in mission-critical environments worldwide, Navtech continues to lead the way in radar innovation. The MAS10 represents the next evolution in marine situational awareness, empowering the future of autonomous navigation with unmatched precision, reliability, and intelligence.”