Development and prototyping of an AMC12 functional module for monitoring critical port infrastructure

Project Description and Background

Port infrastructure is essential for the national and international flow of goods and is therefore classified as critical maritime infrastructure (KRITIS). However, traditional KRITIS monitoring systems are increasingly reaching their limits when it comes to flexible, cost-effective, and low-risk security solutions. A key challenge is therefore: How can ports be monitored from the water in a reliable, cost-effective manner without endangering personnel? The project “Development and Prototyping of an AMC12 Functional Module for Monitoring Critical Port Infrastructure” - in short: AMC12 - is developing a solution: an autonomous, modular surface system that complements traditional security structures with adaptive, mobile technology.

The Innovation: The AMC12 Autonomous Test Vehicle

At the heart of the project is the AMC12 (Autonomous Modular Craft 12m) autonomous test vehicle—a 12-meter-long, highly adaptable test platform developed by Rheinmetall Naval Systems that serves as a platform for sensor networks and AI-supported data analysis. Supplemented by innovative ultra-low-power underwater communication technologies from the TUHH, extensive environmental data can be continuously collected and analyzed in challenging harbor environments. Instead of conventional narrowband methods, broadband spread-spectrum methods are being investigated to increase the energy efficiency of the transponders used. The AMC12’s modular design facilitates the installation of specialized sensors that collect high-precision data.

Core Capabilities at a Glance:

• Platform for sensor networks and AI-powered data analysis
• Technical capability for autonomous navigation via a Remote Operation Control Center or “Autonomics Solutions” in accordance with IMO Autonomy Levels III–IV (remote-controlled operation without a crew on board or fully autonomous operation with independent decision-making)
• “Observe KRITIS” modular functional module concept for 24/7 monitoring
• Combination of above-water and underwater monitoring

The Role of Fraunhofer CML in the AMC12 Project

Fraunhofer CML serves as a technology partner for situational awareness, data fusion, and AI in the AMC12 project. Its primary task is to process and display all relevant sensor information in a situational overview. In addition, Fraunhofer CML contributes extensive experience in maritime security research, drawing on its own testing infrastructure, including the research vessel VEKTOR and the Maritime Cybersecurity Lab. Building on previous research, CML is further developing data-driven anomaly detection and adaptive surveillance solutions to extract actionable information from heterogeneous sensor data in real time.

Tasks in detail:

 

area	activity
Sensor Fusion	Development of the sensor network, including its integration and analysis
KI Algorithms	Development of AI-based anomaly detection
Situational Awareness	Creation of an integrated maritime situational picture
Data Infrastructure	Design and operation of data processing systems

 

AMC12 Funding Framework

Project Sponsor	Hamburg Investment and Development Bank (IFB AöR)
Project Budget	995,000 euros
Project Duration	May 2026 to April 2028
Project Partners	Rheinmetall Naval Systems, Fraunhofer CML, and the Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH)

 

FAQ

What is the goal of the AMC12 project? AMC12 is developing an autonomous surface vessel to monitor critical port infrastructure in order to detect waterborne threats early and improve preventive measures.

What are the benefits of this approach?

• Reduced operational costs
• Lower risk to employees
• Flexible deployment in crisis situations
• Greater technical responsiveness of security agencies

Last updated: October 2026