On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, Silicon Sensing Systems Ltd and Kongsberg Discovery AS announced a major breakthrough in inertial technology with the unveiling of a new, high-precision north-finding navigation device.
The device, which integrates Silicon Sensing’s inductive silicon MEMS (Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems) technology, will be demonstrated live at Oceanology International (OI) 2026 in London later this month.
Navigation-Grade Performance in a Compact Form Factor
The collaboration, initiated via a strategic agreement in June 2025, aimed to achieve navigation-grade performance from a MEMS-based gyroscope—a feat traditionally reserved for larger, more expensive Fiber Optic Gyro (FOG) or Ring Laser Gyro (RLG) systems. David Somerville, General Manager of Silicon Sensing, noted that the nine-month development cycle has successfully produced a north-seeking capability that meets rigorous size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) requirements. Unlike legacy systems, this solid-state unit operates without GNSS or magnetometer aiding, providing resilient navigation in GPS-denied or magnetically compromised environments.
Core Technology: The SGH03 Inductive Sensor
At the heart of the new Kongsberg device is the SGH03, Silicon Sensing’s latest-generation inductive silicon MEMS gyroscope. This sensor is also the core component of the company’s DMU41, a tactical-grade 9-Degrees of Freedom (DoF) inertial measurement unit. The SGH03 utilizes a vibrating ring architecture that offers superior bias instability and angle random walk (ARW) characteristics, making it suitable for high-vibration underwater and aerial environments.
Strategic Rationale: Resilient Navigation for Uncrewed Systems
The move toward north-seeking MEMS is driven by the rapid expansion of the uncrewed systems market. Ane Dalsnes Storsæter, Vice President of Inertial Solutions at Kongsberg Discovery, emphasized that the tactical-grade unit makes precise navigation truly accessible for air and surface drones, subsea Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs). By providing a robust, ITAR-free solution that resists jamming and spoofing, the technology supports critical operations in defense, marine surveying, and offshore energy.
Oceanology International 2026 Demonstrations
Kongsberg Discovery will host live technology demonstrations of the new north-finding device at stand D600 during Oceanology International 2026, held from March 10–12 at ExCeL London. Attendees can also meet the Silicon Sensing engineering team at stand D450 to discuss integration pathways for the SGH03 and DMU41 sensor suites. Further workshops on optimal configuration for subsea mapping and motion compensation are scheduled throughout the event.
