Defence technology company Vatn Systems has introduced INStinct, a new inertial navigation system (INS) designed to provide precise navigation in environments where Global Positioning System (GPS) is unavailable.
The system, powered by Anello Photonics, aims to support maritime navigation for both mission-critical surface and underwater operations.
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According to Vatn Systems, INStinct is built with a modular architecture that allows configuration according to specific mission requirements.
The system can be integrated with various inertial measurement units (IMUs), including the Silicon Photonics Optical Gyroscope (SiPhOG)–based X3 IMU from Anello Photonics.
Anello uses its SiPhOG technology for the X3 IMU, offering high precision and low power consumption, making it suitable for demanding maritime conditions, stated Vatn.
Vatn Systems CEO and co-founder Nelson Mills said: “Inertial navigation is the cornerstone of autonomy at sea.
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By GlobalData“With INStinct, we’ve created a navigation solution that meets the needs of both our own vehicles and third-party platforms, offering reliability, accuracy, and adaptability.
“ANELLO’s IMU technology allows us to offer an INS with FOG performance at a fraction of the traditional cost. The launch of INStinct marks another milestone in our broader strategy to own the full tech stack for underwater vehicles.”
Designed for rapid deployment and seamless integration, INStinct supports Doppler Velocity Log (DVL) integrations, maritime-optimised algorithms, and various housing options that range from original equipment manufacturer (OEM) configurations to depth-rated enclosures.
The company plans to equip numerous underwater vehicles with the INStinct system by the end of 2025.
Founded in 2023, Vatn Systems develops autonomous underwater vehicles for military applications.
Earlier in 2025, the company expanded its product line with the introduction of the Skelmir S12 AUV-torpedo. It also opened a manufacturing facility equipped to produce up to 2,000 vehicles annually.
In November 2024, Vatn Systems successfully raised $13m in a seed funding round led by DYNE Ventures. Other investors included Lockheed Martin Ventures, RTX Ventures, and In-Q-Tel (IQT), among others.
