Navigation Systems Automation Course
Why this course?
The Navigation Systems Automation
course
Prepares you to master the technologies that define the future of maritime navigation. Learn to optimize the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of naval operations through the implementation and management of automated systems. This program immerses you in the world of advanced sensors, predictive control, data integration, and maritime cybersecurity.
Differentiating Advantages
- In-depth Applied AI: Data analysis to optimize routes, predict failures, and improve decision-making.
- Advanced Simulations: Experiment with real and virtual scenarios to put your knowledge into practice in safe environments.
- Naval Cybersecurity: Protect automated systems from cyber threats and ensure the integrity of critical information.
- Up-to-date Regulatory Framework: Understand international regulations and industry standards related to maritime automation.
- Networking with Experts: Interact with leading professionals in the industry and expand your network in the naval sector.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Cursos
- Hours: 150 H
- Start date: 24-07-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Naval engineers and technicians seeking to master the integration of autonomous systems, AI, and predictive control in navigation.
- Bridge officers and captains interested in optimizing safety and operational efficiency with automated navigation tools.
- Software and hardware developers focused on creating innovative solutions for autonomous maritime navigation.
- Researchers and academics wishing to explore the latest trends in automation and robotics applied to the naval sector.
- Engineering and nautical students seeking in-depth knowledge of the technologies that will transform the future of navigation.
Learning flexibility
Adapted for working professionals: online modules at your own pace, practical exercises with simulators and community of experts to answer your questions.
Objectives and competencies
Implement and maintain automated navigation systems:
“Master the integration of sensor data (GPS, radar, AIS) to optimize the route and react to unforeseen events with predefined alternative plans.”
Optimize the performance and efficiency of navigation systems:
Integrate data from multiple sources (AIS, radar, ECDIS) for complete situational awareness and informed decision making.
Diagnosing and resolving problems in automated navigation systems:
“Analyze the available information (radars, AIS, ECDIS) to identify the root cause and apply predefined contingency procedures or develop ad-hoc solutions based on system knowledge and best practices.”
Integrate automated navigation systems with other onboard systems:
Manage data redundancy and prioritization between systems to ensure safe and efficient navigation, minimizing dependence on a single point of failure.
Develop and implement safety procedures for automated navigation:
“Assess cyber risks and protect automated control systems against intrusions and malware.”
Monitor and control automated navigation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations:
“Maintain the planned route, optimizing fuel consumption and ETA, respecting area restrictions and reporting deviations to the bridge.”
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Integrated Navigation and Control Systems (INCS)
- INCS Architecture: Components, Interconnections, and Redundancy
- Positioning Sensors: GNSS, INS, Ground Aids, and Calibration
- Heading Control Systems: Autopilots, Adaptive Control
- Information Display Systems: ECDIS, Integrated Consoles, Displays
- Radar and ARPA Integration: Data Fusion, Advanced Target Tracking
- Communications and Data Management: Networks, Protocols, Cybersecurity
- Monitoring and Alarm Systems: Fault Detection, Alarm Management
- Simulation and Training: simulation models, training scenarios
SINC Regulations and Certification: IMO standards, class requirements
‘
- Introduction to Automated Navigation Systems: Types and Functions.
- Fundamentals of Electronics and Electricity: Components, Circuits, and Measurement.
- Sensors and Transducers: Types, Operating Principles, and Interfaces.
- Control Systems: PLCs, Microcontrollers, and Communication Buses.
- Marine Data Networks: Ethernet, NMEA 0183/2000, CAN bus.
- Navigation Software: Structure, Functionalities, and Configuration.
- Troubleshooting: Methodologies, Tools, and Test Equipment.
- Preventive Maintenance: Inspection, Cleaning, Lubrication, and Calibration.
- Component Repair and Replacement: Welding, crimping, and assembly techniques.
- Technical documentation: Manuals, electrical schematics, and data sheets.
‘
- Introduction to Systems Architecture: Definition, principles, and evolution.
- Architectural Models: Monolithic, microservices, service-oriented architecture (SOA).
- Architectural Design Patterns: Layers, pipelines and filters, brokers.
- Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery (CI/CD): Tools and practices.
- Infrastructure as Code (IaC): Automated provisioning and configuration management.
- Containers and Orchestration: Docker, Kubernetes, and related technologies.
- Monitoring and Observability: Metrics, logs, traces, and analysis tools.
- Configuration Management: Tools such as Ansible, Chef, or Puppet.
- Architectural Security: Principles, threats, and best practices.
- Architectural Governance and Control: Standards, policies, and compliance.
‘
- Introduction to Data Integration: Concepts, Challenges, and Opportunities
- Data Architectures: Data Warehouses, Data Lakes, Data Marts, and Data Meshes
- Data Sources: Relational Databases, NoSQL, APIs, Sensors, and Files
- ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) and ELT Processing: Tools and Best Practices
- Data Quality: Cleaning, Validation, Transformation, and Standardization
- Introduction to Predictive Control: Basic Concepts and Applications
- Machine Learning Models for Prediction: Regression, Classification, and Clustering
- Evaluation and Selection of Predictive Models: Metrics and Techniques
- Implementation of Predictive Control Systems: Control Loops, Alarms and optimization.
- Monitoring and maintenance of predictive models: data drift and retraining.
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
Plan de estudio - Módulos
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Integrated Navigation and Control Systems (INCS)
- INCS Architecture: Components, Interconnections, and Redundancy
- Positioning Sensors: GNSS, INS, Ground Aids, and Calibration
- Heading Control Systems: Autopilots, Adaptive Control
- Information Display Systems: ECDIS, Integrated Consoles, Displays
- Radar and ARPA Integration: Data Fusion, Advanced Target Tracking
- Communications and Data Management: Networks, Protocols, Cybersecurity
- Monitoring and Alarm Systems: Fault Detection, Alarm Management
- Simulation and Training: simulation models, training scenarios
SINC Regulations and Certification: IMO standards, class requirements
‘
- Introduction to Automated Navigation Systems: Types and Functions.
- Fundamentals of Electronics and Electricity: Components, Circuits, and Measurement.
- Sensors and Transducers: Types, Operating Principles, and Interfaces.
- Control Systems: PLCs, Microcontrollers, and Communication Buses.
- Marine Data Networks: Ethernet, NMEA 0183/2000, CAN bus.
- Navigation Software: Structure, Functionalities, and Configuration.
- Troubleshooting: Methodologies, Tools, and Test Equipment.
- Preventive Maintenance: Inspection, Cleaning, Lubrication, and Calibration.
- Component Repair and Replacement: Welding, crimping, and assembly techniques.
- Technical documentation: Manuals, electrical schematics, and data sheets.
‘
- Introduction to Systems Architecture: Definition, principles, and evolution.
- Architectural Models: Monolithic, microservices, service-oriented architecture (SOA).
- Architectural Design Patterns: Layers, pipelines and filters, brokers.
- Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery (CI/CD): Tools and practices.
- Infrastructure as Code (IaC): Automated provisioning and configuration management.
- Containers and Orchestration: Docker, Kubernetes, and related technologies.
- Monitoring and Observability: Metrics, logs, traces, and analysis tools.
- Configuration Management: Tools such as Ansible, Chef, or Puppet.
- Architectural Security: Principles, threats, and best practices.
- Architectural Governance and Control: Standards, policies, and compliance.
‘
- Introduction to Data Integration: Concepts, Challenges, and Opportunities
- Data Architectures: Data Warehouses, Data Lakes, Data Marts, and Data Meshes
- Data Sources: Relational Databases, NoSQL, APIs, Sensors, and Files
- ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) and ELT Processing: Tools and Best Practices
- Data Quality: Cleaning, Validation, Transformation, and Standardization
- Introduction to Predictive Control: Basic Concepts and Applications
- Machine Learning Models for Prediction: Regression, Classification, and Clustering
- Evaluation and Selection of Predictive Models: Metrics and Techniques
- Implementation of Predictive Control Systems: Control Loops, Alarms and optimization.
- Monitoring and maintenance of predictive models: data drift and retraining.
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to Industrial Automation: Concepts, Components, and Architectures
- Industrial Networks: Protocols (Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP), Topologies, and Security
- SCADA and HMI: Design, Development, Integration, and Cybersecurity of Interfaces
- PLCs and Controllers: Programming (Ladder, ST), Configuration, and Hardening
- Distributed Control Systems (DCS): Architecture, Redundancy, and Security
- Sensors and Actuators: Types, Calibration, Communication, and Protection
- Virtualization and Containers: Application in Automation and Security Environments
- Safety in Automation: Standards (ISA/IEC 62443) Risk management and segmentation.
- Intrusion Detection and Incident Response: Monitoring, forensic analysis, and contingency plans.
- Regulatory Compliance and Audits: Preparation, documentation, and continuous improvement.
‘
- Introduction to Sensors: Classification, Operating Principles, and Applications
- Navigation Radars: Fundamentals, Types (X-band, S-band), Key Parameters, and Limitations
- Global Positioning Systems (GNSS): GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou; Fundamentals, Accuracy, and Errors
- Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs): Accelerometers, Gyroscopes, Magnetometers; Operating Principles and Applications
- Motion Sensors: Velocity, Acceleration, Orientation; Integration with Navigation Systems
- Environmental Sensors: Wind, Temperature, Atmospheric Pressure, Humidity; Impact on Navigation
Sensor Fusion: Algorithms and Techniques for Combining Data from Multiple Sensors
Calibration and Error Compensation in Sensors
Integration of Sensors with Navigation Systems: Architectures and Communication Protocols
Future Trends in Sensors, Radar, and Navigation Systems
‘
- Introduction to Instrumentation: Sensors, Transducers, Signals
- Control Systems: Open Loop, Closed Loop, PID
- Position Measurement: GPS, INS, Inertial Systems
- Gyrocompass and Speed: Principles, Errors, and Calibration
- Steering Systems: Electrohydraulic, Joystick, Maneuvering Propellers
- Stability Control: Stabilizing Fins, Anti-Roll Tanks
- Rudder Angle Indicators, Propeller Pitch, and RPM
- Alarm and Monitoring Systems for Navigation Parameters
- Systems Integration: Integrated Bridge, Automation
- Preventive and Corrective Maintenance of Equipment ICD
‘
- Introduction to Autonomous Systems: Definition, Levels of Autonomy, and Applications.
- Software Architectures for Autonomous Systems: ROS, DDS, micro-ROS, and other platforms.
- Sensors and Perception: LiDAR, radar, cameras, IMU, and sensor fusion.
- Actuators and Control: Motors, hydraulic/pneumatic actuators, and control strategies (PID, MPC).
- Motion Planning: Search algorithms (A*, RRT), sample-based planning, and optimization.
- Localization and Mapping: SLAM, visual odometry, Kalman filtering, and feature-based methods.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning for autonomous systems.
- Ethics and Safety in Autonomous systems: ethical considerations, functional safety, and cybersecurity.
Simulation and validation: simulation tools (Gazebo, CARLA), real-world testing, and system validation.
Regulations and standards: relevant regulations for autonomous systems in different domains.
‘
Career opportunities
- Naval Automation Technician: Maintenance and repair of automated navigation systems.
- Navigation Systems Engineer: Design, development, and implementation of software and hardware for automation.
- Marine Robotics Specialist: Programming and operation of underwater robots and autonomous vehicles.
- Automation Consultant: Advising on the implementation of automated navigation systems.
- Navigation Software Developer: Creation of applications and programs to improve navigation efficiency and safety.
- Marine Automation Researcher: Development of new technologies and algorithms for autonomous navigation.
- Automation Systems Inspector: Verification of compliance with regulations and standards in navigation automation.
- Automation Instructor/Trainer Naval: Transfer of knowledge and skills in the field of navigation systems automation.
“`
Admission requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.
Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.
5. Induction
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.
Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ≥ 24” monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates
1. Online
application
(form + documents).
2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).
3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).
4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.
5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Automation Fundamentals: Master the key principles and emerging technologies in autonomous navigation systems.
- Tools and Software: Learn to use simulation software and development tools to create control algorithms.
- Control Algorithms: Implement and optimize algorithms for trajectory control, obstacle avoidance, and autonomous decision-making.
- Sensor Integration: Become familiar with integrating sensors (GPS, IMU, cameras) for real-time environmental perception.
- Project Development: Apply your knowledge to practical projects, from simulation to implementation in real prototypes.
Testimonials
I successfully automated the navigation system of a fleet of delivery drones, reducing delivery time by 30% and completely eliminating route errors, resulting in a 15% increase in customer satisfaction and a 20% decrease in operating costs.
During the Marine Electronics and Automation course, I applied the knowledge I acquired to design an automated ballast control system that optimized a vessel’s stability and efficiency, reducing fuel consumption by 12% according to simulations. This project demonstrated my ability to integrate different electronic and control systems, exceeding the course’s expectations.
I managed to optimize the navigation routes of a fleet of delivery drones, reducing delivery time by 15% and fuel consumption by 12%, by implementing an automated system that considers real-time traffic variables and weather patterns.
I managed to automate the navigation system of an unmanned aerial vehicle to perform long-distance autonomous flights with a positioning accuracy of 2 cm, exceeding the project specifications by 50% and reducing flight setup time by 80%.
Frequently asked questions
Improve navigation safety and efficiency by reducing human intervention and optimizing routes.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Greater accuracy and efficiency in navigation, reducing the operator’s workload and minimizing human error.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Introduction to Autonomous Systems: Definition, Levels of Autonomy, and Applications.
- Software Architectures for Autonomous Systems: ROS, DDS, micro-ROS, and other platforms.
- Sensors and Perception: LiDAR, radar, cameras, IMU, and sensor fusion.
- Actuators and Control: Motors, hydraulic/pneumatic actuators, and control strategies (PID, MPC).
- Motion Planning: Search algorithms (A*, RRT), sample-based planning, and optimization.
- Localization and Mapping: SLAM, visual odometry, Kalman filtering, and feature-based methods.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning for autonomous systems.
- Ethics and Safety in Autonomous systems: ethical considerations, functional safety, and cybersecurity.
Simulation and validation: simulation tools (Gazebo, CARLA), real-world testing, and system validation.
Regulations and standards: relevant regulations for autonomous systems in different domains.
‘
Request information
- Complete the Application Form
- Attach your CV/Qualifications (if you have them to hand).
- Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you want the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
Teachers
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.