Precision Navigation for Defence, UAV, Robotics & Autonomous Systems

High-Accuracy Inertial Navigation, Position and Orientation for Defence, UAVs, Robotics and Autonomous Systems

Metromatics is proud to be the exclusive Australian supplier of VectorNav. VectorNav is a global leader in:

Built around cutting-edge MEMS sensor technology and advanced onboard sensor-fusion algorithms, VectorNav products deliver:

  • Superior orientation, position, and velocity accuracy
  • Low-SWaP navigation solutions for compact platforms
  • High reliability for defence, aerospace, UAV, marine and robotics applications
  • Proven performance in challenging GPS-denied and high-dynamic environments

Whether you need a compact IMU for a stabilised payload, a high-precision AHRS for a gimbal, or a tactical-grade GNSS/INS for autonomous navigation, VectorNav sensors provide unmatched performance in a miniature, ruggedised package.

Click Here to read more about VectorNav product families

VectorNav Product Families

VectorNav’s product line fits into five core technology categories, aligned with industry standards and engineering workflows.

1. Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs)

VectorNav IMUs combine 3-axis gyroscopes, accelerometers, and magnetometers to provide raw inertial data and precise 3D motion sensing.

Ideal for:
UAV stabilisation, Robotics, Antenna alignment, Gimbals & stabilised platforms, Guidance & control systems

Typical products:
VN-100 VN-110

2. Attitude & Heading Reference Systems (AHRS)

VectorNav AHRS units deliver real-time roll, pitch, yaw, attitude and heading using VectorNav’s onboard Extended Kalman Filter (EKF).

Designed for:
Vehicle orientation, Gimbal control, Payload stabilisation, Marine navigation, Autonomous systems

Typical products:
VN-100 VN-110 VN-310

3. GNSS/INS Navigation Systems

GNSS-aided inertial navigation systems fuse MEMS IMU, GNSS (single or dual antenna), and onboard EKF to output robust position, velocity, orientation, and navigation.

Used in:
UAVs & drones, Robotics, Survey systems, Military navigation, Marine & subsea platforms

Typical products:
VN-200 VN-210 VN-300 VN-310

4. Tactical-Grade Navigation Systems

Tactical-grade sensors provide extremely low drift, ultra-stable gyros, and superior navigation accuracy for mission-critical applications.

Ideal for:
Defence and military platforms, High-performance UAVs, Autonomous ground vehicles, High-precision targeting systems, Long-duration missions, GPS-challenged environments

Typical product:
VN-310

Why Choose VectorNav?

  • High-performance MEMS inertial sensors
  • Advanced onboard sensor fusion (EKF)
  • Dual-antenna GNSS options (true heading)
  • Miniature, low-SWaP form factors
  • Rugged, industrial, and tactical-grade performance
  • Reliable operation in GPS-denied environments
  • Full SDK, API, and integration tools
  • Backed by Metromatics’ local engineering support in Australia

Applications & Industries

  • Defence & military systems
  • UAVs & drones (navigation, stabilisation, targeting)
  • Autonomous ground vehicles
  • Robotics & industrial automation
  • Gimbals, antennas & stabilised platforms
  • Marine and subsea vehicles (AUVs, ROVs)
  • Surveying & geospatial systems
  • Aerospace research and flight control
  • Satellite pointing & telemetry

These products excel in systems requiring reliable navigation data in compact, ruggedised hardware.

How to Choose the Right VectorNav Sensor

Requirement / Use CaseRecommended CategoryExample Models (on your site)
Basic inertial sensingIMUVN-100
Orientation & headingAHRSVN-110
GNSS-aided navigationGNSS/INSVN-200 VN-210 VN-300 VN-310
Tactical-grade precisionTactical-Grade Navigation SystemsVN-110 VN-310

FAQ’s About VectorNav’s Inertial Navigation Systems

Q1. What is the difference between an IMU and an INS?

An IMU measures acceleration and rotation; an INS combines an IMU with GNSS and onboard algorithms to output position, velocity, and navigation data.

Q2. Do VectorNav sensors work in GPS-denied environments?

Yes — tactical-grade models like the VN-310 provide robust performance when GNSS signals are degraded or unavailable.

Q3. Can VectorNav units provide true heading without a magnetometer?

Yes — dual-antenna GNSS models (e.g. VN-310) provide true heading without dependence on magnetic sensors.

Q4. What industries use VectorNav sensors?

Defence, UAVs, robotics, marine systems, surveying, aerospace, and industrial automation.

Q5. Does Metromatics offer local support for VectorNav products?

Yes — as the exclusive Australian supplier, Metromatics provides full technical support, advice, integration help, and product selection guidance.