Life-saving autonomy, when every second counts.

The Autonomous Rescue Swimmer (ARS) — revolutionizing maritime safety with intelligent, automatic deployment and guided victim recovery.

Spotter on ship deck scanning rough seas

The Human Factor

Immediate response depends almost entirely on a “constant spotter.” Once the victim is lost from sight, survival odds plummet.

Reaction Time

Even in ideal conditions, several minutes are lost before helicopters or rescue boats deploy—often too late.

71.9%Navy mortality (1970–2020)
83%Cruise line mortality rate
6,705USCG rescues (FY 2025)
1–2 / moCruise man-overboard incidents

Our Solution

Instant Deployment

Automatically deploys upon man-overboard alarm, eliminating human delay.

Intelligent Navigation

AI-enabled object detection and sonar mapping autonomously locate the victim.

Guided Recovery

Delivers flotation, flare, and RF beacon to sustain the survivor and guide recovery teams precisely.

Technology

Autonomous Navigation

Real-time sonar mapping for reliable path planning in adverse seas.

Rapid Deployment System

Throwable or deck-mounted options for immediate activation.

Integrated Beacon + Flare

Ensures visual and RF tracking through recovery.

AI Vision + Obstacle Avoidance

Object detection keeps course clear and target locked.

Schematic of ARS deploying from a ship

Transforming Maritime Safety Across Industries

From naval operations to commercial cruise fleets, ARS addresses the critical first minutes of every man-overboard emergency.

Defense & Coast Guard

Faster rescue, reduced swimmer risk.

Cruise & Commercial Shipping

Safety compliance, liability reduction.

Recreational Boating

Consumer-grade life-saving autonomy.

“Every second lost can mean a life. ARS gives those seconds back.”

Validation & Roadmap

Primary Market Research across defense, commercial, and insurance sectors validates that ARS improves time-to-victim recovery, reduces operational risk, and enhances fleet safety compliance.

  1. Early Operator validation
  2. Mid Prototype testing & refinement
  3. Late Procurement alignment with Coast Guard, Navy, and cruise fleets

About Us

Born from MIT’s spirit of innovation, the Autonomous Rescue Swimmer team unites mechanical engineers, roboticists, and veterans to redefine maritime safety.

Team Member

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Team Member

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Team Member

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Contact

Autonomous Rescue Swimmer
50 Memorial Dr., Cambridge, MA 02142
autery@mit.edu | 443-510-1000
Get in Touch