US Naval Research Laboratory Deploys ISIS360 Imaging to Slash Shipboard Tank Inspection Timelines from Weeks to Hours

U.S. Naval Research Laboratory deploys ISIS360 to automate shipboard tank inspections, using AI and 360-degree imaging to improve safety and Fleet readiness.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 1, 2026, 5:26 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Naval Research Laboratory

Revolutionizing Naval Maintenance Logistics

The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has achieved a significant milestone in maritime engineering with the fielding of the ISIS360, a next-generation inspection tool designed to modernize how the Navy maintains its vessels. Historically, assessing the internal condition of shipboard tanks has been a grueling process involving weeks of preparation, including emptying, cleaning, and certifying spaces as gas-free for human entry. The introduction of ISIS360 collapses these traditional timelines into a matter of hours, allowing the Fleet to transition from scheduled maintenance to a more efficient, condition-based approach.

Eliminating Hazards of Confined Space Entry

One of the most critical advantages of the ISIS360 is the removal of personnel from dangerous, confined environments. Previously, Sailors and maintenance teams had to physically enter dark, cramped tanks supported by temporary scaffolding and lighting to check for structural degradation. This high-risk activity required rigorous safety certifications and logistical support that often disrupted ship operations. By utilizing a compact, 360-degree imaging system, the ISIS360 captures comprehensive internal data without a human ever crossing the threshold, fundamentally changing the safety profile of naval maintenance.

AI-Driven Corrosion Detection and Analysis

The system’s capabilities extend beyond simple photography through the integration of a sophisticated Corrosion Detection Algorithm (CDA). Developed in collaboration with industry partners, the CDA analyzes high-resolution imagery to automatically identify and quantify regions of rust and structural decay. This allows inspectors to calculate the exact percentage of surface degradation with a level of precision that visual human inspections cannot match. The data is then hosted in a secure Department of Defense cloud environment, providing a digital baseline for the health of each individual tank.