Mastering the Dynamics of Naval Systems for a Secure Maritime Future

In the complex and demanding environment of naval operations, where precision, autonomy, and robust control are paramount, SIREHNA stands as a key French expert. A subsidiary of the renowned Naval Group, SIREHNA has been at the forefront of naval hydrodynamics, control systems, and maritime robotics since its founding in 1986. Based in Bouguenais, France, the company delivers cutting-edge solutions that enhance the safety, efficiency, and operational superiority of both manned and unmanned naval platforms, directly contributing to maritime sovereignty and defense capabilities worldwide.

Over Three Decades of Hydrodynamic Expertise

SIREHNA’s journey began in 1986, establishing itself as a specialist in the dynamic behavior and control of naval platforms. This deep-rooted expertise in hydrodynamics—the science of how liquids behave, particularly in motion—has been the cornerstone of their offerings for over three decades. Their long history of research, development, and practical application has allowed them to understand and predict the intricate movements of ships and submarines in various sea states, a critical factor for both performance and safety.

As a subsidiary of Naval Group, SIREHNA benefits from close collaboration with a global leader in naval defense. This relationship allows them to integrate their specialized knowledge directly into the design, production, and upgrade of complex naval systems, from submarines to surface ships. Their contributions span the entire lifecycle of vessels, ensuring that advanced control and hydrodynamic solutions are incorporated from the earliest stages of design through to in-service support.

Core Expertise: Hydrodynamics, Control Systems, and Autonomous Operations

SIREHNA’s technological prowess is built on several interconnected pillars:

1. Naval Hydrodynamics and Simulation: This is perhaps SIREHNA’s most fundamental strength. They utilize advanced numerical simulation methods, including Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), to predict the hydrodynamic performance of various marine systems. This includes analyzing resistance in calm water and waves, optimizing hull forms and appendages, studying propeller performance, and assessing ship maneuverability and stability.
   • Ship Model Testing: SIREHNA complements its numerical simulations with physical ship model testing, using both small-scale and large-scale free-running models. This allows them to validate their simulations and gain empirical data on complex phenomena, such as helicopter ditching tests or the dynamic stability of trawler ships.
   • xDYN Simulator: The company has developed a lightweight, time-domain ship simulator called xDYN. This tool models the dynamic behavior of a ship at sea, considering actuators and non-linear aspects, making it invaluable for design, analysis, and training. It can simulate mechanical behavior by solving Newton’s second law of motion, incorporating hydrodynamic forces.
2. Dynamic Positioning (DP) and Control Systems: SIREHNA is a leading provider of certified redundant Dynamic Positioning Control Systems (IMO DP1 and DP2), which allow vessels to automatically maintain their position and heading using their own propellers and thrusters.
   • EasyDP Product Line: Their EasyDP systems are adaptable to various propulsion types and vessels. They offer a range of functionalities, including joystick control, precise station keeping, accurate track keeping along predefined waypoints, and advanced autopilot functions.
   • Innovative Modes: Beyond standard DP modes, SIREHNA develops innovative features such as automatic standby in wind fields, automatic fast transit, real-time route optimization, and enhanced security features for ship areas (e.g., SMS alerts for potential intruders).
   • Cyber Resilience: SIREHNA’s DP systems are designed with cyber resilience in mind, complying with the latest IACS UR E27 standards for cyber resilience of on-board systems and equipment. This advanced security level benefits from their work in the naval defense sector, ensuring robust protection against cyber threats.
3. Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) and Automation Kits: Recognizing the growing importance of autonomous maritime systems, SIREHNA designs and supplies a range of USVs specifically engineered for remote or fully autonomous missions. They also offer automation kits that can be adapted to existing manned platforms, enabling dual manned/unmanned capability.
   • SEAQUEST® S USV: This is a multi-role combat small USV, measuring 9.3 meters in length. Developed by SIREHNA in collaboration with Couach for its hull and unveiled with Naval Group at Euronaval 2024, the SEAQUEST® S is designed for surveillance, protection, and interception missions for both military and civilian applications. It features a modular architecture, high speed (up to 35 knots), and long range (220 nautical miles, extendable up to 530 nm). It can be deployed from mother ships (frigates, LHDs, supply ships) or from shore, and has been operationally tested by the French Navy. Its collapsible panoramic sensor integrated mast (PSIM) can host various sensors (radars, AIS, optronics) and communication antennas (LOS & BLOS), providing real-time and delayed information transfer with cybersecurity. The front bay is designed to host smart assets and can carry hundreds of kilograms of payload, supporting missions such as ISR-T (Identification, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, Targeting, and Tracking) and logistics.
   • REMORINA Technology Demonstrator: An 8-meter semi-rigid USV, the Remorina is a platform for demonstrating and integrating new technologies, including advanced piloting systems with obstacle avoidance algorithms, gyro-stabilized cameras, searchlights, and acoustic guns. It serves as a testbed for future USV capabilities.
   • Automation Drone Kit: This adaptable kit can transform a variety of platforms into unmanned assets, complete with sensors, communication units, and easy integration, allowing for a dual manned/unmanned capability.

Contributions to Defense and Maritime Security

SIREHNA’s expertise is intrinsically linked to enhancing naval defense capabilities. Their solutions provide critical advantages for modern navies and maritime security forces:

• Enhanced Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA): USVs like the SEAQUEST® S extend the reach and persistence of surveillance, enabling comprehensive monitoring of coastal areas, critical infrastructure, and maritime traffic without exposing human operators to risk. Their long endurance and sophisticated sensor payloads provide continuous situational awareness.
• Force Multipliers: USVs act as force multipliers, allowing naval assets to cover larger areas, conduct more missions simultaneously, or operate in higher-risk environments. The SEAQUEST® S, for instance, can extend a mother ship’s mission capabilities by performing reconnaissance in dangerous zones while the manned vessel remains at a safe distance.
• Operational Efficiency and Safety: By automating complex maneuvers and enabling autonomous operations, SIREHNA’s DP systems and USVs reduce human workload, minimize operational errors, and enhance safety in hazardous maritime conditions.
• Mine Countermeasures (MCM) and ASW Support: USVs can be equipped for critical tasks such as mine detection and neutralization or providing support for anti-submarine warfare, areas that are inherently dangerous for crewed vessels.
• Naval Ship Design and Performance Optimization: Through their hydrodynamic expertise and simulation tools, SIREHNA directly contributes to the design of more stable, efficient, and maneuverable warships and submarines, providing an operational advantage in terms of speed, endurance, and stealth.
• Training and Simulation: SIREHNA offers certified Dynamic Positioning training programs based on Nautical Institute (NI) standards, including DP Induction, DP Operator, and DP Maintenance courses. These programs utilize their advanced simulators, providing practical exercises and customized scenarios to train naval personnel and commercial operators, ensuring they master complex control systems.

Research, Innovation, and Strategic Collaborations

SIREHNA is deeply committed to continuous innovation through robust research and strategic collaborations. They actively participate in joint research laboratories and projects with academic institutions and industry partners.

• Joint Laboratory of Marine Technology (JLMT): In partnership with Naval Group and Centrale Nantes, SIREHNA is a key player in the JLMT. Established in 2016 and renewed multiple times, this laboratory pools academic and industrial expertise to drive innovation in military shipbuilding. Projects have included pioneering work in additive manufacturing, such as the world’s first hollow propeller blade demonstrator printed at 1/3 scale, which can significantly improve propulsion efficiency and stealth for naval vessels.
• Agile Development: As highlighted by Naval Group, SIREHNA employs an agile and incremental development process, enabling them to rapidly design and deploy solutions like the SEAQUEST® S, developed in less than a year, incorporating lessons learned from recent conflicts. This fast-paced approach ensures that their technologies remain relevant and effective against evolving threats.
• Future Concepts: SIREHNA is continually investing in future concepts, including swarm capabilities for USVs and advanced AI solutions for decision-making aids, working towards fully unmanned global solutions.

SIREHNA’s comprehensive approach, combining fundamental hydrodynamic knowledge with advanced control systems and autonomous technologies, positions it as a vital contributor to modern naval capabilities. By providing the tools for precise control, intelligent automation, and enhanced situational awareness, SIREHNA empowers navies and maritime forces to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape with greater safety, efficiency, and strategic advantage.