A promising new development in military security has emerged from a recent study led by Sergio Sánchez at the Corporación Universitaria Antonio José de Sucre. This research focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance surveillance capabilities in river environments, an area often plagued by illicit activities. The study, published in “TESEA, Transactions on Energy Systems and Engineering Applications,” showcases a prototype designed to detect vessels and individuals in these challenging settings.
The prototype harnesses the power of a Raspberry Pi 3, a compact yet capable computing platform, combined with four advanced pre-trained models for object detection. Among these, the MobileNet V2 SSD stood out, achieving a mean Average Precision (mAP) of 0.83 and processing frames at a rate of five per second. This impressive performance indicates a significant leap forward in automated monitoring solutions, which can operate under diverse weather conditions and vast geographical areas.
Sánchez emphasizes the importance of this technology, stating, “This tool can contribute to strengthening the strategic, tactical, and operational capabilities of actors in the military intelligence sector.” Indeed, the implications of this research extend beyond military applications; maritime sectors could find numerous commercial opportunities in adopting similar technologies. With the ability to monitor waterways effectively, companies involved in shipping, logistics, and even environmental protection could enhance their operational safety and efficiency.
The shift from manual surveillance to intelligent systems marks a pivotal moment in maritime security. As industries look to bolster their defenses against threats, the integration of AI-driven monitoring can provide a competitive edge. The potential for real-time data analysis and rapid response capabilities could transform how organizations approach security in riverine and coastal areas.
With the growing interest in smart technologies, the maritime sector stands to benefit from innovations like the one presented by Sánchez and his team. As they work to refine this prototype, the commercial applications could pave the way for safer and more secure waterways, ultimately fostering a more secure environment for society at large.
