Russia Unveils “Kalan,” an Unmanned Catamaran Built to Replace Divers in Dangerous Missions
The new MChS vessel is designed to monitor waterways and conduct underwater inspections without risking human lives.
Russia has introduced the “Kalan,” an unmanned catamaran capable of performing underwater tasks that once required human divers. Developed by the All-Russian Research Institute for Civil Defense and Emergency Situations (VNII GOChS) in collaboration with Fort XXI, the system was showcased at the Interpolitex security exhibition in Moscow.
The Kalan is equipped with advanced sonar and hydroacoustic technology, including a high-precision echo sounder, side-scan sonar, and a sound velocity profiler. These tools allow it to map the seafloor and detect underwater objects with exceptional accuracy — a capability critical for ship safety, infrastructure inspections, and search-and-rescue missions.
Smarter monitoring, safer waters
Because the Kalan operates remotely and without a crew, it can explore hazardous or hard-to-reach underwater environments without putting divers at risk. The data it collects help authorities maintain effective and reliable control over maritime zones.
Experts from VNII GOChS who participated in the project were recognized at the exhibition for their contribution to advancing robotics in emergency response. The Kalan represents not just a new chapter in Russia’s maritime technology, but also a step toward safer, more automated disaster management systems worldwide.
