SENIN: Empowering the French Navy’s navigation for two decades

Exail has been at the forefront of supporting navigation for the French Navy for the past two decades. With its advanced Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) software known as SENIN* Exail equips all French Navy ships and submarines, cementing its position as a trusted partner that ensures safe and efficient naval operations.

Exail (formerly iXblue) and the French Navy started working together in the early 2000s. In 2003, the French Navy decided to equip all its vessels with a navigation system that meets international standards, leading to the selection of Exail and Airbus Group (iXblue and EADS at the time) for their advanced SENIN software. From 2004 to 2006, SENIN was installed on 57 different ships after a year of software validation, simulator testing, and initial installation on the Jaguar training ship. In 2008, the first contract for maintenance was signed, and since then, all new French Navy ships have been equipped with SENIN as Government Furnished Equipment (GFE).

Back then, SENIN revolutionized maritime navigation by replacing traditional paper navigation charts. It quickly became a leading navigation software, fully compliant with the latest IEC-IMO and IHO standards and regulations, ensuring industry best practices. SENIN’s advanced features include precise mapping, sensor management, integration of tactical data, and advanced mission planning capabilities. Its user-friendly interface enables navigators to visualize, track, and plan sea missions effectively. “SENIN’s proprietary chart engine and highly configurable man-machine interface streamline operations by providing easy access to frequently used functions with a single click,” highlights Jérémy Passavan, Product Manager at Exail. By offering a comprehensive overview of the maritime environment, SENIN provides crews with real-time information, enabling them to navigate confidently in challenging conditions, make well-informed decisions and improve the safety of both ships and personnel.

SENIN not only enhances navigational safety through its ECDIS certification but also provides a significant improvement in understanding tactical scenarios on warships. As a certified WECDIS (Warship Electronic Chart Display and Information System) software, SENIN serves as a crucial strategic tool for the French Navy during military operations at sea. In addition, its tactical features align with NATO’s STANAG standards, promoting coordination and interoperability with naval forces from member countries. By adhering to NATO’s standards, SENIN contributes to strengthening the French Navy’s position within the organization, emphasizing its commitment to interoperability and international cooperation.

SENIN is a software solution specifically tailored to fulfill the requirements of the French Navy. Developed over the course of two decades, it has continuously evolved based on user feedback and needs, benefitting from close collaboration with vessel crews. The successful deployment of SENIN throughout the entire French Navy fleet is a testament to its reliability and quality, with notable integration on major platforms like the Charles-de-Gaulle aircraft carrier, the SNLE nuclear-powered ballistic-missile submarine, and the SNA class nuclear attack submarine.

“Working closely and continuously with the French Navy has allowed us to ensure that SENIN stays at the forefront of technological advancements, constantly adapting to evolving needs and challenges. We are profoundly grateful for the trust placed in us by the French Navy, and we are honored to contribute to the success of the French Navy’s mission” stated Pierre-Louis Roudaut, Sales Manager at Exail.

Exail’s steadfast commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and national security has firmly established the company as a trusted supplier of advanced maritime navigation systems. By offering a comprehensive suite of features and driving innovation in the field, Exail continues to shape the future of marine navigation, contributing to the nation’s security.

*Système d’Exploitation Navale des Informations Nautiques, in English Navigation Operating and Information System