Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Diploma · 800 h · 8 modules
Diploma in Naval Surveillance Drones
This program prepares you to master the latest technologies and strategies for using drones for maritime security. Learn to plan surveillance missions, interpret sensor data, and respond effectively to threats. This program…
Duration800 h
FormatOnline
Starts9 November
Places20 / 20
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Programme overview
What is the Diploma in Naval Surveillance Drones?
The Diploma in Naval Surveillance Drones
This program prepares you to master the latest technologies and strategies for using drones for maritime security. Learn to plan surveillance missions, interpret sensor data, and respond effectively to threats. This program provides you with the essential skills to operate drones in complex naval environments, optimizing safety and efficiency.
the Diploma in Naval Surveillance Drones
Key Benefits
- Operation and Maintenance: Gain practical knowledge in the handling and care of naval drones.
- Data Analysis: Learn to interpret sensor data for early risk detection.
- Legislation and Regulations: Understand the legal framework for the use of drones in maritime spaces.
- Surveillance Strategies: Develop skills for planning effective and safe missions.
- Practical Simulations: Participate in simulations to apply your knowledge in realistic scenarios.
Programme type
Diploma
Study mode
Online
Duration
800 hours
Modules
8
Start date
27-11-2026
Programme highlights
- Advanced Navigation and Piloting: Master autonomous flight and remote control techniques for drones designed for maritime surveillance.
- Sensors and Surveillance Systems: Learn to interpret data from multispectral cameras, radars, and other key sensors for detection and tracking.
- Data Analysis and Maritime Intelligence: Transform collected information into actionable intelligence for the safety and security of naval resources.
- Maritime Aviation Regulations and Standards: Understand the legal framework and best practices for safe and efficient drone operations in maritime environments.
- Naval Drone Maintenance and Repair: Acquire practical skills for diagnosing and troubleshooting common problems in specialized drones.
- Boost your Career in naval surveillance with cutting-edge technology and become an expert in the use of drones for maritime security.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 8 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Naval Drone Basics
- Types of drones: aerial, surface and submarine
- Evolution and Applications in Surveillance
- Components of an unmanned system
- Operational Advantages
- Limitations
- History of the use of drones in the naval field
- Drones in Maritime Rescue
- Drones in fisheries surveillance
02
Regulations and airspace
- European regulations EASA
- Operation Categories
- Authorizations in maritime environment
- Privacy and data protection
- Insurance and Responsibility
- Restricted zones and controlled airspace
- National regulations
- Pilot Licenses
03
Platforms and sensors
- Fixed wing and multirotor drones
- EO/IR cameras and zoom
- Radar and special sensors
- Autonomy and batteries
- Platform Selection
- Drones with thermal camera
- Speakers and embarked spotlights
- Long-range drones
04
Boat operation
- Takeoff and landing in Deck
- Effect of the wind and movement of the ship
- Recovery Systems
- Coordination with the bridge
- Security Procedures
- Captive Drones
- Night operation from ships
- Pre-checklist
05
Surveillance missions
- Flight planning
- Search Patterns
- Boat Tracking
- Night surveillance
- Real-time video streaming
- Surveillance of suspicious boats
- SUPPORT FOR APPROACHES
- Discharge surveillance
06
Data Processing and Intelligence
- Image Analysis
- Artificial Intelligence for Detection
- Georeferencing
- Integration in command centres
- Evidence Management
- Forensic analysis of images
- Secure data storage
- Mission Reports
07
Surface and Submarine Drones
- USV for patrol
- Underwater inspection vehicles
- Communications and remote control
- Combined operations
- Maintenance
- Inspection of hulls with submarine drones
- Port surveillance with USV
- Coordination between drones
08
Security, countermeasures and practices
- Drone Cybersecurity
- Hostile drone detection and neutralization
- Flight Emergency Management
- Maintenance and Records
- Flight Hours Log
- Battery Management
- Continuous pilot training
- Final Project: Drone Surveillance Mission
Workload
Study Time and Workload
800 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Naval officers and maritime security personnel seeking to integrate drones into their surveillance and reconnaissance operations.Naval systems engineers and technicians interested in the maintenance and operation of shipboard drones.Port and coastal security experts wishing to improve efficiency in threat detection and traffic control.Maritime and logistics service companies seeking to optim
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Operate and maintain naval drone systems
- 02Interpreting surveillance data for strategic decision-making
- 03Implement security and cybersecurity protocols in naval drone operations
- 04Integrating drones into maritime surveillance operations
- 05Adapting drone technology to the specific needs of naval surveillance
- 06Manage the information collected to optimize the response to maritime threats
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Drone Operator on Patrol Boats and Surveillance Vessels: Conducting coastal surveillance missions, fisheries control, spill detection, and supporting search and rescue operations.
02Drone Data and Image Analyst: Processing and analyzing collected information for threat detection, identification of illicit activities, and damage assessment.
03Naval Drone Maintenance and Repair Technician: Ensuring the proper functioning of drones, performing preventive and corrective maintenance, and troubleshooting technical issues.
04Maritime Security Consultant with Drones: Advising companies and organizations on the implementation of drone surveillance systems for the protection of critical infrastructure and risk prevention.
05Naval Drone Flight and Operations Instructor: Training new operators and technicians in the safe and Efficient drone operator for maritime applications.
06Naval Drone Software and Hardware Developer: Design and development of new technologies and applications for drones, including control systems, sensors, and communications.
07Naval Drone Technology Researcher: Participation in research and development projects to improve drone capabilities in the maritime and naval sectors.
08Maritime Surveillance Drone Project Manager: Planning, coordination, and supervision of surveillance projects using drones, ensuring compliance with objectives and budgets.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Naval surveillance.
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.
Yes, it focuses on the use of drones in marine environments and, depending on the specific program, could also include river environments.
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 Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate Degree in Engineering (any specialization), Science (Physics, Mathematics) or related technical qualification; or accredited professional experience in armed forces, public or private security with experience in surveillance.Language proficiency:Recommended: Functional technical English for interpreting drone manuals and software.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree or professional experience certificate, ID/Passport, cover letter specifying interest in naval surveillance with drones.Technical requirements (for online)
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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