Spring/Fall 2025 Senior Design - Group 4
The Maritime Domain Awareness System enhances maritime security by detecting and tracking non-cooperative vessels that disable their Automatic Identification System (AIS). Traditional maritime surveillance relies heavily on government-operated assets, which are limited in coverage and costly to maintain. Our project proposes a cost-effective, scalable solution by deploying radar-equipped surveillance units on commercial vessels, which significantly expands detection capabilities while reducing operational costs.
A key aspect of this system is its self-powered, self-contained design, ensuring minimal impact on host vessels while maintaining persistent maritime surveillance. The radar units operate independently from the ship’s power supply, utilizing renewable energy sources such as wind to sustain long-term functionality. The collected radar data is transmitted via Starlink communication, enabling real-time tracking and military response. Sponsored by United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), this project strengthens border security and maritime domain awareness with a scalable, autonomous monitoring solution.
Sponsored by: United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).
Project Lead: Derek Florer at De986876@ucf.edu.