Robust position and heading sensor for high speed military vessels

Precise navigation solutions integrating GPS and low cost inertial navigation technology have been developed in the last decades to optimize accuracy in the offshore and hydrographic industry. This technology is well known and established in the market. Commercial solutions are available that provide precise measurements of position, velocity attitude, and heading. This paper describes how a state-of-the-art navigation instrument has been adapted to military requirements and extended with additional sensors and functionality to meet the demands on robustness and redundancy of a military user operating in rough sea conditions with high dynamics. The solution integrates several instruments in one robust and compact navigation package. The Royal Norwegian Navy has installed the navigation system described above in their new range of combat boats.