The MARISPEC project aims to significantly improve maritime security by developing an advanced, autonomous drone surveillance system. This innovative research, coordinated by the University of Antwerp (InViLab) in collaboration with industry leaders DroneMatrix and Xenics, addresses critical gaps in monitoring and protecting offshore infrastructure against potential threats.

Project Goals

MARISPEC's core objective is to create a fully autonomous drone platform capable of operating in harsh maritime conditions, day and night. The drone will integrate cutting-edge multi-wavelength cameras (visible spectrum, thermal infrared, and image intensifier-based night vision) with powerful onboard machine-learning algorithms, enabling real-time detection and identification of ships and potential threats.

Key Innovations

• Autonomous Drone Technology: A highly autonomous and resilient drone system capable of prolonged operation under challenging environmental conditions, including high winds, rain, fog, and low-light scenarios.

• Advanced Multi-Wavelength Imaging: Innovative use of visual, thermal (LWIR), and intensified night-vision cameras, significantly enhancing detection capabilities, particularly in low-visibility environments.

• Real-time Threat Identification: Sophisticated onboard processing leveraging machine-learning algorithms to swiftly analyze visual data, drastically reducing response times.

• Enhanced Detection and Recognition: Achieving superior performance in detecting, recognizing, and identifying small vessels at extended ranges, crucial for timely threat assessment and response.

Impact and Benefits

• Improved Maritime Surveillance: Continuous monitoring and early detection of threats to critical infrastructure such as offshore wind farms, energy islands, and maritime security zones.

• Operational Flexibility and Cost-Effectiveness: Providing an efficient, scalable, and affordable alternative to traditional maritime surveillance methods, facilitating broader deployment and integration into existing security frameworks.

• Strategic Collaboration: Close interaction with maritime stakeholders, including the Maritime Operations Centre (MOC), Maritiem Informatiekruispunt (MIK) and offshore infrastructure operators, ensuring the system meets real-world operational needs.

Project Partners

• University of Antwerp (InViLab): Specialized expertise in image processing, multi-camera calibration, and machine learning.

• DroneMatrix: Leading developer of autonomous drone solutions, focusing on robust drone operations and payload integration.

• Xenics: Expert in state-of-the-art camera technology, contributing advanced imaging capabilities optimized for drone applications.