The Sea-Scan research team from Trinity College Dublin has secured the top position in the Defence Innovation Challenge with its advanced AI-powered vessel detection system. This project aims to enhance Ireland’s maritime security amid increasing concerns regarding threats to subsea communications and energy infrastructure. The announcement was made on March 15, 2024, during a press conference led by James Lawless TD, the Irish Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, alongside Helen McEntee TD, the Minister for Defence.
As part of the competitive initiative, the Sea-Scan team received over €1.8 million in funding under the co-funded Research Ireland – Defence Innovation Challenge. Their project focuses on developing a next-generation maritime situational awareness system designed to bolster Ireland’s capability to monitor its coastal waters effectively. The initiative comes at a time when there is significant concern about “dark” vessels operating undetected in Irish waters, particularly in relation to the protection of vital subsea cables that facilitate international communications.
In addition to the primary award, the MASH – Mobile Adaptable SHelter team, led by Dr. Daniel McCrum and Dr. Kevin Roche from University College Dublin, as well as Defence Forces Liaison Capt. Dave McKenna, received runner-up funding for their project.
The Sea-Scan team, which includes Prof. Marco Ruffini, Dr. John Kennedy, and Defence Forces Liaison Cdr. Cathal Power, is focused on creating a system capable of providing real-time vessel detection to improve early warning and situational awareness. The project also has potential applications for environmental monitoring, showcasing a versatile approach to maritime challenges.
Dr. Diarmuid O’Brien, CEO of Research Ireland, highlighted the importance of challenge-based research funding, stating, “Research funding encourages researchers to work directly with those most affected by the problems they seek to address.” He emphasized that the Sea-Scan team’s work is a significant contribution towards delivering a transformative capability for the Irish Defence Forces.
Prof. Marco Ruffini expressed that maintaining a strong awareness of maritime activities is crucial for Ireland, particularly due to its geographical status as an island nation and a key Atlantic hub for digital connectivity. He noted that as subsea communications and energy infrastructure grow in importance, so does the need for continuous, reliable monitoring of the maritime environment.
The Sea-Scan project aims to demonstrate an ability to detect and characterize vessel activity by leveraging existing subsea fibre infrastructure. Ruffini stated that this approach showcases a robust sensing capability integrated within operational communications assets, allowing for effective vessel monitoring and subsea infrastructure protection.
Minister Lawless remarked on the significance of the awarded projects, stating, “These demonstrate how cutting-edge research can provide practical solutions that enhance national security while fostering technological innovation.” Minister McEntee added, “Innovation is critical to ensuring our Defence Forces have the tools they need to operate effectively in an increasingly complex environment.”
This funding marks a significant step toward modernizing Ireland’s defence capabilities, reflecting a commitment to embracing innovative solutions for future challenges in maritime security.
