Saab announced the successful implementation of National Automatic Identification System (NAIS) on the Indian coast line for India’s Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL), which will also be used by Indian Navy, Coast Guard and DG Shipping.

The National Automatic Identification Systems was inaugurated on Friday by India’s Union Minister for Shipping, Thiru G.K. Vasan, at a formal ceremony in Chennai.

This National Automatic Information System (NAIS) provides coverage to entire Indian Coast, whereby 74 lighthouses are now fitted with the Saab systems.

Automatic Identification System (AIS) provides real time merchant traffic information and the web server allows access to live data over internet. The project comprised installation of sensors and equipments along the Indian coast for regional and national control centers.

Saab implemented the entire gamut of project which included installation, commissioning, training and support, along with their Indian partner, Elcome Marine Services. The project was signed by Saab and Elcome Marine Services combine in November 2010 and it has been completed ahead of schedule during in 2012.

“We have been using the system as part of acceptance trials for the past six months and are very pleased with the performance. The team of Saab and Elcome has worked hard to complete the project well within time period which is an achievement by itself considering the large scale geographical and technical complexities. Our comments and suggestions during the implementation phase have been well received and have been implemented as the project went along. Overall it was a nice experience to work with the team. The NAIS network has suitable interfaces have already been incorporated for adding radar, cameras and other sensors. The system has already been integrated with existing radar and AIS in the country to provide a holistic overview of the coastal maritime domain. The NAIS network would thus play a vital role in meeting the long term coastal surveillance needs of India”, said Mr. P.P Sinha, Deputy Director General and Nodal Officer (NAIS) at DGLL.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Magnus Persson, VP Operations, Saab TransponderTech said, “Saab is proud to be associated with India’s maritime safety & security. This project is one of the largest national AIS- based coastal surveillance systems ever to be deployed.” He added further saying, “The successful completion of this contract is an important validation of Saab’s position as the technology leader in AIS base stations and networks worldwide. It is equally satisfying that we now deepen and enhance our relation with India. This project along with the co-operations we already have makes Indiaan even more important long term market for Saab. The NAIS has been integrated with Gulf of Kachchh (GOK) VTMS network. The NAIS has been integrated with a Terma radar part of GOK VTMS to provide a Common Operating Picture (COP) with radar and AIS target correlated.”

Elcome Marine Services has partnered Saab in India for this project. Elcome has delivered the whole network, VSATs, leased lines, installation, project management, design, and installation. Elcome with support from Saab will be maintaining the system for 10 years.