Best Submarines Navigation System Today

Inertial Navigation System (INS) performance in GNSS‑denied environments — Since submarines often operate underwater where GPS/GNSS isn’t available, the INS must maintain very low drift over extended dive periods. For example, the iXblue Marins M11 offers drift of less than 1 nautical mile in 360 hours (≈15 days).

Dived (underwater) navigation & sensor fusion — System must integrate multiple sensors (gyros, DVL, magnetic compasses, pressure sensors) and navigate with minimal external fixes. The OSI Maritime Systems TDNS (Tactical Dived Navigation System) supports this.

Charting, terrain/corridor navigation & error correction — Ability to incorporate electronic chart systems (WECDIS/WECDIS‑submarine variant) and perform fixes via bathymetry, seabed contact, or inertial corrections reduces accumulated navigation error.

Stealth‑compatible architecture & minimal signature impact — Navigation hardware should not compromise submarine stealth (minimal hull penetrations, low emissions, compact form‑factor). Systems like the Sagem Sigma 40 XP were selected for their suitability in demanding submarine environments.

Reliability, ruggedness & lifecycle support — Must withstand high shock/vibration, long maintenance intervals, materials compatible with underwater environment (pressure/humidity) and long service life. For example the “Black‑Onyx” family from Safran claims very high MTBF and full naval MIL‑SPEC.

Integration with combat / navigation / mission systems — The navigation system must interface with sonar, combat management systems, sensors and communications so the submarine can navigate, track and manage missions coherently. Eg: OSI’s TDNS offers full sensor & weapon interface.