Indian Navy Receives First Indigenous Military-Grade Underwater ROVs

The Indian Navy received two indigenous EyeROV TROUT underwater ROVs for inspection, surveillance, search and recovery under the iDEX defence innovation programme.

By Indrani Priyadarshini

on October 12, 2026

Kerala-based marine robotics company EyeROV has delivered two EyeROV TROUT underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to the Indian Navy. This marks a significant step towards the adoption of indigenously developed underwater technology for defence operations.

The delivery marks the first time the Indian Navy has received homegrown, military-grade underwater ROVs. These systems are designed to support operations that require underwater inspection, surveillance and intervention in challenging marine environments.

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The EyeROV TROUT systems can be used for underwater search and recovery missions, inspections and robotic intervention. By allowing operators to examine underwater locations remotely, the vehicles can help carry out tasks that may be difficult or risky for divers.

The delivery is part of the Indian Navy’s order for five EyeROV TROUT systems. The underwater drones were developed under the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) DISC 7 SPRINT Challenge, an initiative aimed at encouraging indigenous innovation and the development of technology for India’s defence forces.

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The order highlights the growing role of Indian deep-tech companies in developing specialised equipment for the country’s defence requirements. It also reflects efforts to strengthen domestic capabilities in marine robotics and reduce dependence on imported underwater systems.

EyeROV specialises in marine robotics and artificial intelligence-based technologies, with a focus on underwater inspection and related applications. The delivery of the TROUT systems represents a step forward for India’s indigenous underwater robotics capabilities, particularly in supporting naval operations.

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