Master’s degree1,500 h · Online · 11 modules

Master's in Naval ISR: Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance

This master's prepares you to work in today's complex maritime environment, where strategic information is key to security and defense. You will learn how naval intelligence is collected, analyzed and disseminated from diverse sources, how radar, sonar, satellite, electro-optical and unmanned sensors are integrated and fused, how signals are processed and classified, how artificial intelligence and big data support maritime surveillance and how naval systems are protected against cyberattacks, so that you can support informed, effective decisions in critical situations.

Duration1,500 h

ModeOnline

Start1 December

Modules11

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About the program

What is the Master's in Naval ISR: Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance?

This master's is built around the technology and the analytical method behind naval intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR). You will study the foundations of maritime surveillance and its international framework; ISR sensors such as radar, sonar, synthetic aperture radar, satellites, UAVs and electro-optical systems; multisensor data fusion and early warning; signal processing with Fourier and wavelet transforms, Doppler processing and acoustic signature analysis; SIGINT, ELINT, IMINT, MASINT and OSINT; AIS architecture and vulnerabilities; electronic countermeasures; planning of reconnaissance operations, maritime environmental analysis and geospatial systems; AI, machine learning, convolutional neural networks, big data architectures and edge computing; naval cyber defense, cryptography and incident response for command and control systems; and the intelligence cycle, structured analytic techniques, source evaluation, cognitive bias and report writing.

What sets this master's apart: rather than focusing on a single threat such as piracy, it covers the full ISR chain, from the physics of sensors and signals to the intelligence products delivered to decision-makers; it gives equal weight to technology and to analytical tradecraft, including structured analysis, source reliability and the analyst's own biases; it treats cybersecurity as part of reconnaissance, since sensors, data links and C2 systems are themselves targets; and it ends with a Final Project in which you design an integrated, AI and big data-based naval reconnaissance system for maritime surveillance and the protection of strategic infrastructure such as ports and offshore platforms.

Program typeMaster’s degree

ModeOnline

Duration1,500 hours

Modules11

Start1 December

Program highlights

Maritime surveillance: radar, sonar, SAR, satellites, UAVs, UUVs and electro-optical sensors.
Signal analysis: Fourier and wavelet processing, Doppler, acoustic signatures, SIGINT and ELINT.
Data fusion: multisensor correlation, AIS, unified tactical picture and early warning systems.
AI and big data: machine learning, CNNs, anomaly detection, predictive models and edge computing.
Naval cyber defense: C2 security, cryptography, intrusion detection and incident response.
Intelligence tradecraft: intelligence cycle, structured analysis, source evaluation and reporting.

Syllabus

Syllabus of the Master's in Naval ISR: Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance

11 modules. Select a module to see its content.

Module 1

Advanced maritime surveillance and cybersecurity strategies

1.1. Foundations and evolution of maritime surveillance: concepts, technologies and international regulatory frameworks
1.2. Advanced naval reconnaissance operations: tracking, identification and classification of maritime targets
1.3. Integration of ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) sensors: radar, sonar, satellites, UAVs and electro-optical systems
1.4. Multisensor data analysis and fusion: signal processing, correlation algorithms and early warning systems
1.5. Introduction to naval cybersecurity: threats, vulnerabilities and attacker profiles in maritime environments
1.6. Security of command and control (C2) systems: protection measures, intrusion detection and incident response protocols
1.7. Cryptography applied to naval communications: encryption, authentication and key management to protect the confidentiality and integrity of information
1.8. Simulation and modeling of cyber-physical scenarios: risk assessment and operational resilience testing on naval platforms
1.9. National and international rules on maritime cybersecurity: compliance, audits and certification standards
1.10. Designing and implementing cyber defense plans: security architecture, access policy and continuous staff training

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 2

Advanced signal analysis and threat recognition techniques in contemporary naval operations

2.1. Foundations of signal processing in naval scenarios: Fourier theory, wavelet transforms and adaptive filtering
2.2. Detection and classification of acoustic signatures: identification techniques and spectral analysis for submarines and underwater threats
2.3. Advanced application of Doppler processing for target tracking and ambient noise reduction
2.4. Remote sensing and electronic reconnaissance: principles of naval SIGINT and ELINT in hostile environments
2.5. Multispectral analysis and active and passive optical sensors: integration for reconnaissance in coastal and open-sea operations
2.6. Modeling and simulation of threat scenarios: artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms for naval behavior patterns
2.7. Data fusion and multisensor correlation methods on integrated naval platforms
2.8. Electronic countermeasures (ECM) and electronic warfare techniques for deceiving and neutralizing enemy systems
2.9. International rules and protocols for the secure exchange of naval intelligence
2.10. Case studies and analysis of historical operations: critical evaluation of reconnaissance tactics and strategies and responses to emerging threats

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 3

Implementing advanced maritime surveillance and cyber defense strategies in modern naval operations

3.1. Foundations of advanced maritime surveillance: electro-optical sensors, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and integrated automatic identification systems (AIS)
3.2. Implementing multi-source systems for real-time data fusion and the generation of maritime operational intelligence
3.3. Predictive models and artificial intelligence algorithms for the proactive detection of naval threats and illicit activities
3.4. Cyber defense strategies in naval environments: security architecture for combat networks and secure management of critical onboard systems
3.5. Cyber incident response protocol: identification, containment, forensic analysis and operational recovery on naval platforms
3.6. Integrating uncrewed surveillance technologies (UUVs and UAVs) to extend the reach of naval defense and reconnaissance
3.7. Signals intelligence (SIGINT) analysis and electronic warfare: advanced interference, detection and countermeasure techniques in maritime scenarios
3.8. International rules and standards for naval cybersecurity and maritime surveillance operations
3.9. Implementing command and control (C2) systems for effective coordination in joint and multinational operations
3.10. Case studies and operational simulations of hybrid warfare and cyberattacks in the maritime environment for strategic and tactical decision-making

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 4

Naval intelligence and integrated surveillance: SIGINT and IMINT, signal analysis, AIS, drones and cyber defense

4.1. Foundations of naval intelligence: key concepts, structure and international doctrines applied to the maritime domain
4.2. SIGINT and IMINT sources: collection, processing and exploitation of electromagnetic signals and imagery in naval operations
4.3. Advanced analysis of electronic signals: interception, decryption and classification of radar, communications and electronic warfare emissions
4.4. Automatic Identification System (AIS): architecture, transmission protocols, vulnerabilities and use in identifying and tracking ships
4.5. Integration of uncrewed platforms: strategic and tactical use of aerial, surface and underwater drones for continuous reconnaissance and surveillance
4.6. Imagery processing and analysis (IMINT): automatic recognition algorithms, anomaly detection and real-time tactical intelligence
4.7. Cyber defense in the naval domain: security architecture, intrusion detection, applied cryptography and incident response in command and control systems
4.8. Applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve the accuracy and speed of analysis of data collected in maritime operations
4.9. Maritime reconnaissance and protection operations: planning, execution and monitoring of combined missions in multi-domain scenarios with hybrid threats
4.10. Integrating multidisciplinary intelligence for decision-making in naval command centers: interoperability, information flow and crisis management

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 5

Joint intelligence operations and information management in complex naval environments

5.1. Foundations of naval intelligence: concepts, structure and the intelligence cycle applied to maritime environments
5.2. Interagency integration: coordination between naval forces, intelligence agencies and strategic allies for joint operations
5.3. Analysis and management of large volumes of information: data mining, artificial intelligence and machine learning in naval intelligence
5.4. Maritime collection and surveillance systems: SIGINT, MASINT and HUMINT applied to detecting threats at sea
5.5. Planning and execution of joint intelligence operations in multidimensional, multisensor naval scenarios
5.6. Managing tactical and strategic intelligence: data fusion, prioritization and generation of actionable intelligence products
5.7. Security protocols and information protection in naval environments: cybersecurity, cryptography and secure handling of sources
5.8. Naval countermeasures and electronic warfare: advanced techniques to neutralize electronic threats and improve the performance of information systems
5.9. Decision support operations: support algorithms, simulations and real-time operational visualization tools
5.10. Operational case studies: detailed analysis of successful joint intelligence missions and applicable lessons learned

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 6

Planning and execution of advanced reconnaissance and surveillance operations in maritime environments

6.1. Foundations of naval strategic planning: intelligence analysis, assessment of the operational environment and setting reconnaissance objectives
6.2. Advanced methods for data collection on the open sea: electro-optical sensors, scanning radar, acoustic systems and multi-INT techniques
6.3. Tactical planning of surveillance operations: interagency coordination, synchronization of assets and operational risk management
6.4. Integrating reconnaissance platforms: uncrewed vehicles (UUVs and UAVs), fast boats and critical onboard sensors for obtaining maritime information
6.5. Maritime environmental analysis for operations: detailed study of tides, currents and weather and their impact on reconnaissance missions
6.6. Advanced cartography and applied geospatial systems: interpretation of satellite imagery, digital nautical charts and real-time GIS
6.7. Designing and applying camouflage and concealment techniques in maritime environments for covert surveillance operations
6.8. Simulation models and wargaming to validate and adjust the reconnaissance operation plan
6.9. Security protocols and threat management in reconnaissance operations: cybersecurity, electronic defense and countermeasures against adversary detection
6.10. Real-time monitoring and control of surveillance operations: command and control (C2) platforms, data links and intelligence flow to naval operations centers

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 7

Innovative technologies in maritime surveillance, cybersecurity and signal analysis for high-precision naval operations

7.1. Advanced foundations of maritime surveillance: electro-optical sensors, coherent synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and multispectral systems for detection and tracking in complex maritime environments
7.2. Integrating passive and active sensors: multisensor fusion to improve the accuracy of naval reconnaissance and minimize false positives
7.3. Emerging technologies in naval reconnaissance: autonomous maritime drones, uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) and automated coastal patrol systems with integrated artificial intelligence
7.4. Architecture of naval surveillance systems: design, implementation and optimization of distributed sensor networks and centralized monitoring stations with interoperability and redundancy
7.5. Advanced analysis of electromagnetic and acoustic signals: digital signal processing (DSP), adaptive filtering and detection of specific signatures for accurate identification of objects and events
7.6. Artificial intelligence algorithms for naval reconnaissance: supervised and unsupervised machine learning for automatic threat classification, maritime behavior pattern recognition and event prediction
7.7. Naval cybersecurity protocols and methods: defense in depth, real-time monitoring and countermeasures against electronic attacks on naval surveillance and control systems
7.8. Information system security and interoperability: international standards for protecting critical data, advanced encryption and access management in distributed naval networks
7.9. Simulation and modeling in high-precision naval operations: virtual environments for training in detection, tracking and threat response using real data and complex scenarios
7.10. Operational applications and case studies: analysis of real incidents and rapid, adaptive response techniques in conflict and sovereign maritime control scenarios

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 8

Integrating artificial intelligence and big data for reconnaissance and monitoring in advanced naval operations

8.1. Foundations of artificial intelligence (AI): supervised, unsupervised and reinforcement learning algorithms applied in maritime environments
8.2. Big data in the naval domain: capture, storage and processing of large volumes of data from sensors, satellites and open sources
8.3. Advanced architectures for AI and big data integration: hybrid models and distributed systems for real-time analysis of naval information
8.4. Automatic recognition and classification of maritime targets with convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and anomaly detection models
8.5. Implementing machine learning to predict navigation patterns and unusual behavior in adversary fleets
8.6. Multisensor fusion: integrating radar, sonar, satellite imagery and AIS data into a unified tactical picture
8.7. Image and spatial processing: advanced segmentation, feature extraction and object tracking in complex maritime scenarios
8.8. Predictive analysis for preventive maintenance of naval platforms using big data and AI models
8.9. Deploying automated surveillance systems with edge computing and real-time response capacity in littoral and ocean areas
8.10. Data mining for strategic intelligence: extracting actionable intelligence from heterogeneous and unstructured sources

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 9

Integrated surveillance, cybersecurity and signal analysis systems for high-performance naval operations

9.1. Advanced architecture of integrated naval surveillance systems: components, multispectral sensors, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and side-scan sonar
9.2. Naval communication protocols and standards: tactical data links, encrypted communications and IP-based tactical networks for real-time operations
9.3. Foundations of cybersecurity on naval platforms: threats, vulnerabilities and specific defense techniques for SCADA and weapon control systems
9.4. Signal analysis and fusion methods: digital signal processing (DSP), multisensor detection algorithms and machine learning applied to naval intelligence
9.5. Managing electronic intelligence (ELINT): interoperability between systems, spectral analysis and advanced interferometry techniques for locating and classifying threats
9.6. Integrating C4ISR systems (command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) for strategic and tactical decision-making
9.7. Developing and applying neural networks and deep learning for the automatic identification of acoustic and electromagnetic signatures in hostile marine environments
9.8. Simulation and training for naval operations: advanced virtual platforms to practice responses to cyberattacks, electronic defense and signals warfare
9.9. Assessing and mitigating the risks of cyberattacks against critical naval infrastructure, including navigation and propulsion systems
9.10. Procedures for multisensor integration and coordination in joint operations: interoperability between naval, air and land forces in highly complex scenarios

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 10

The intelligence cycle, analysis and naval reporting

10.1. The intelligence cycle: direction, collection, processing and dissemination
10.2. Structured analytic techniques
10.3. Source evaluation and reliability
10.4. The analyst's cognitive biases
10.5. Open-source intelligence
10.6. Producing intelligence products
10.7. Writing reports and briefings
10.8. Classification and protection of information
10.9. Cooperation between intelligence services
10.10. Analysis case study

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 11

Final Project

11.1. Design and development of integrated system architectures for naval reconnaissance: specialized components, hardware and software
11.2. Advanced artificial intelligence algorithms: deep learning, convolutional neural networks and reinforcement learning applied to target detection and classification
11.3. Implementing big data systems in maritime surveillance: real-time acquisition, processing and storage of data from multiple sensors
11.4. Multisensor fusion: integrating radar, sonar and electro-optical and infrared sensors to improve the accuracy and reliability of reconnaissance
11.5. Developing AI-based predictive models to anticipate threats and anomalies in complex maritime environments
11.6. Smart maritime surveillance: automated monitoring, early warnings and behavior analysis of naval and uncrewed objects
11.7. Applying big data analytics to the protection of strategic infrastructure: ports, offshore platforms and sensitive coastal areas
11.8. Decision support systems: designing interfaces and tools for the interpretation and optimal use of information processed in real time
11.9. Cybersecurity protocols and operational resilience for naval reconnaissance systems and big data management
11.10. Validation, testing and performance evaluation of integrated reconnaissance systems in simulated and real operating scenarios, with analysis of key effectiveness and reliability metrics

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Plan your pace

Duration and format of the Master's in Naval ISR: Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance

It is 1,500 hours. Tell us how many you can study each week and we will tell you when you will really finish.

Hours per week

4 h30 h

With 12 h per week

months to finish

125 weeks

weeks in total

This is the pace at which most students finish. It fits well with the installment plan.

Faculty

Academic leadership and faculty

The Navalis teaching team: working professionals who teach and supervise the programs.

Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic Director and Head of Quality Assurance

Eng. Diego CifuentesSenior Lecturer in Naval Welding and Non-Destructive Testing; Head of QA/QC for Welded Joints

Capt. Javier Abaroa (MCA)Senior Lecturer in Ship Handling, Electronic Navigation (ECDIS/Radar/ARPA) and GMDSS; STCW Compliance and Bridge Resource Management Coordinator

Dr. Pau FerrerSenior Lecturer in Naval Architecture and Simulation; Director of the Hydrodynamics and CFD Laboratory

Dr. Nuria LlobregatSenior Lecturer in Marine Meteorology, SAR and Operational Safety; Navigation Risk Management Coordinator

Eng. Javier BañulsSenior Lecturer in Electrical Engineering, Automation and ETO Engineering; Electronic Integration and Engine Alarms Coordinator

Eng. Sofía MarquinaSenior Lecturer in Materials, Composites and Corrosion Protection; Coordinator of the Advanced Paints and Coatings Line

Eng. Tomás RieraSenior Lecturer in Propulsion, Alternative Energy and Hybrid Systems; Energy Performance and Vibration Coordinator

Objectives

Objectives of the Master's in Naval ISR: Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance

01Lead maritime intelligence operations by analyzing diverse information, including weather data, AIS and open sources, to anticipate threats and optimize resources.

02Analyze and anticipate naval threats by integrating intelligence, weather information and own and allied resources to assess vulnerabilities and optimize deployments.

03Manage naval intelligence resources, integrating information from multiple sources (SIGINT, IMINT, HUMINT and OSINT) to produce accurate, timely intelligence products.

04Develop and apply effective countermeasures that protect the crew and the integrity of the ship against detected threats.

05Implement and optimize maritime surveillance systems that integrate radar, AIS, cameras and environmental sensors into a clear, accurate operational picture adapted to the user and the phase of the operation.

06Interpret and disseminate strategic naval intelligence, analyzing geopolitical trends and their potential impact on national maritime interests and communicating key findings to political and operational decision-makers.

Careers

Career opportunities after the Master's in Naval ISR: Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance

01Naval intelligence analystcollection, analysis and dissemination of information relevant to maritime security.

02Naval reconnaissance specialistidentification and tracking of ships and naval activities using sensors and information systems.

03Naval data analystprocessing and analysis of large data volumes to detect relevant patterns and trends.

04Maritime security consultantrisk assessment and protection strategies for maritime infrastructure and assets.

05Naval technology researcher or defense project managerdevelopment and deployment of new intelligence and reconnaissance systems.

06Maritime security policy adviserreports and recommendations for maritime security policies and regulations.

Frequently asked questions

Questions about the Master's in Naval ISR: Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance

Naval intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR): sensors, signal analysis, data fusion, AI and big data, naval cyber defense and the analytical process that turns data into intelligence.

It covers the whole ISR chain for any maritime threat, from sensor physics and signal processing to intelligence products, rather than focusing on piracy interdiction and response.

Mainly the navy, but the content also applies to coast guards, maritime authorities, defense companies and organizations that protect ports and offshore infrastructure.

A grounding in engineering, physics or mathematics helps with the signal processing and AI modules, but profiles from international relations or security are also welcome; the admission interview confirms the fit.

No. It is based on open sources, public doctrine, published standards and case studies; it does not work with classified material.

Yes. Several modules cover cyber threats to naval platforms, C2 security, cryptography, intrusion detection, incident response and the protection of SCADA systems.

Through case studies and analysis exercises in each module and a Final Project in which you design an integrated AI and big data-based naval reconnaissance system.

A master's issued by Navalis Institute, together with the system design, analyses and intelligence reports you produce during the program.

Fully online, with up-to-date content, case studies and tutorials. It comprises 1500 hours of study across 11 modules of about 136 hours each.

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Online admission

Admission process

No waiting for a call back. If your documents are in order, you can enroll in the same session.

Entry requirements

Profile: aimed at navy and merchant navy officers interested in maritime security, risk analysis and intelligence technologies, intelligence and security analysts, naval systems engineers and developers, defense and security professionals, and graduates in engineering, political science, international relations or related fields. A degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, international relations, security or a related field, or demonstrable professional experience in the naval, military or intelligence field, is recommended.
Language: sufficient command of English to follow the classes and the technical documentation.
Technical resources: a computer with a camera and microphone, a stable internet connection and data visualization and analysis software indicated in the program.
Admission: online application, review of your profile and a short interview with the academic team.

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