What is the primary benefit of an inertial navigation system regarding its operational independence?

The primary benefit of an inertial navigation system lies in its completely self-contained functionality. This means that the system does not rely on external references or signals to determine its position, orientation, or velocity. By utilizing sensors such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, an inertial navigation system can calculate its movements based solely on the data it gathers internally.

This self-sufficiency is particularly advantageous in environments where external signals are unreliable or unavailable, such as underwater or in space. The ability to function independently enhances the robustness of navigation in various challenging conditions, providing consistent tracking without the need to depend on GPS or other external navigation systems. This independence also allows for continuous operation even when external influences might impede performance, contributing to overall reliability and effectiveness in navigation tasks.