Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVS) and Marine Robotics: Advancements, Architectures, Intelligent Navigation Systems, Sensing Technologies, and Operational Challenges for Next-Generation Maritime Autonomy

Abstract

Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVs) are rapidly transforming marine operations by integrating robotics, artificial intelligence, advanced sensing, navigation algorithms, and real-time environmental awareness. As critical assets in oceanographic research, environmental monitoring, maritime surveillance, and coastal defense, ASVs offer enhanced efficiency, safety, and endurance compared to traditional manned vessels. Modern marine robotics leverages multi-modal sensors, machine learning, and autonomous decision-making frameworks to navigate highly dynamic ocean environments. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of ASV technologies, design principles, intelligent control systems, communication architectures, operational challenges, and future research directions. An in-depth analysis of autonomy levels, mission planning methods, and marine robotic ecosystems is provided to highlight the growing relevance of autonomous systems in maritime domains.

KEYWORDS: Autonomous Surface Vehicles, Marine Robotics, Intelligent Navigation, Marine Autonomy, Ocean Sensing, Path Planning, Maritime Surveillance, Robotics Architectures