NORBIT GuardPointTM Intruder Detection Sonars enable proactive protection of critical maritime assets.
Beneath the surface, the threat is real
As geopolitical tensions rise and asymmetric threats grow, the underwater domain has become both a strategic and vulnerable frontier. Subsea infrastructure (pipelines, cables, harbours and offshore platforms) face increasing risks from hybrid warfare tactics and covert operations by state and non-state actors.
From the publicized suspected sabotage of the Nord Stream pipelines to clandestine surveillance near naval bases, underwater conflict has shifted from theory to reality. With 99% of global data transferred via subsea cables and 80% of global trade transiting via maritime routes, failure to protect underwater assets is no longer an option.
What’s at stake?
The question of what is at risk underwater has a simple answer: everything. Infrastructure, energy supply, communication networks and lives depend on resilient subsea security. With rapid growth in offshore infrastructure and rising geopolitical tensions, failure to implement underwater surveillance represents not just vulnerability, but liability.
Closing the gaps in maritime security
While air and land domains are well covered by layered surveillance networks, underwater infrastructure often remains unmonitored. Legacy tools such as passive arrays or diver patrols cannot detect rebreather-equipped divers or unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) that exploit stealth and complex acoustic conditions to evade detection.
To address this blind spot, NORBIT, a global industry leader in sonar innovation, has developed the GuardPointTM Intruder Detection Sonar (IDS) range. Compact, deployable and real-time capable, these systems provide early warning by detecting, classifying and tracking underwater threats before they reach critical proximity.
Technical superiority with GuardPointTM
The GuardPointTM family offers precision sonar solutions built for operational flexibility. Optimized for both fixed and mobile use, the system delivers:
- high-definition imaging that distinguishes divers, UUVs and marine life;
- real-time tracking and automated alerts to command centres;
- compact, durable design for easy deployment on the seabed, quays, buoys or vessels;
- extended coverage through networked sonar arrays;
- optimized shallow-water performance: where depth constraints would limit conventional sonar systems, the GuardPointTM excels;
- energy-efficient operation for remote and long-term missions.
These capabilities align with NATO standards and represent best practice in maritime situational awareness and critical infrastructure defence.
Adaptable sonar for every environment
Recognizing that no single sonar suits all missions, NORBIT’s GuardPointTM range offers models for specific operational needs:
- GuardPointTM70: long-range (70kHz) sonar provides up to 360° horizontal coverage. Utilizing frequency-modulated (FM) and continuous-wave (CW) transmissions, it is optimized for open-water surveillance in the toughest of environments.
- GuardPointTM100/200: specifically designed with narrow vertical beam scanning using NORBIT’s STX technology for steerable transmission, providing up to 180° horizontal coverage with central transmission frequencies of 100kHz and 200kHz respectively. The focused 1.9˚ beam reduces seabed and surface interference, minimizes false alarms and increases the reliability of intruder classification. This IDS is ideally suited for a fixed installation on the seabed, pier pile or harbour wall.
- GuardPointTM400: operating at 400kHz, it is particularly suited to ultra-shallow waters (1–2m), restricted areas and deep-water and challenging environments. The small form factor (2.9kg in air weight) makes it highly portable and deployable in permanent or mobile tactical solutions.
This modular suite allows integrated coverage, reinforcing maritime domain awareness (MDA) and critical asset protection.
Intuitive visualization and analysis
Beyond hardware, effective defence relies on situational insight. The GuardPointTM Intruder Tracking Software provides multi-view visualization, real-time fusion of sonar feeds and compatibility with third-party command systems. Operators – novice or expert – can track multiple intruders, replay data and integrate with underwater communication systems for immediate response.
Accurate classification and response
NORBIT’s IDS systems employ advanced algorithms to classify targets by dynamics, acoustic signatures and image profiles. By defining threat zones and analysing movement intent, operators can quickly escalate responses to genuine hostilities, maintaining control over complex subsurface environments.
Operational success: NORBIT and the Hungarian MOD
As one of the many live examples beyond the coastal focus, operational capability for inland waterways such as the Danube River has been redefined by NORBIT’s technology through a Cooperative Research Agreement with the Hungarian Ministry of Defence (MOD). NORBIT’s sonar systems enhance situational awareness for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams, enabling real-time diver tracking and hazard identification.
The GuardPointTM400 demonstrated unmatched intruder detection during military trials on the Danube, validating its shallow-water capability and setting the stage for next-generation deployments.
Integrating air, surface and subsurface domains
True maritime security requires a unified operation picture. NORBIT’s SeaCOPTM Multi-Mission Decision Support System integrates data from X-band radars, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) cameras, AIS, GNSS and third-party sensors into one interface.
Designed for both shore and vessel-based use, SeaCOPTM enables operators to detect, assess and respond rapidly to threats. Mobile platforms equipped with SeaCOPTM act as secondary command centres, expanding coverage and enabling coordinated action across distributed forces. Its modular and sensor-agnostic architecture ensure future-proof integration and tailored scalability for evolving defence needs.
A strategic imperative above and beneath the surface
As maritime domains gain importance, threats multiply, demanding equally advanced countermeasures. NORBIT’s GuardPointTM and SeaCOPTM platforms deliver proven, interoperable solutions trusted by defence agencies and energy operators worldwide.
By safeguarding the unseen depths, NORBIT protects not just infrastructure, but the stability and economic continuity that depends on secure seas. In an era where underwater intrusions may remain invisible until too late, proactive detection is not just an advantage, it is a strategic necessity.
To find out more, visit www.norbit.com/security or contact the team on [email protected] to discuss your maritime security requirements.