noun
automatic steering device; autopilot
Technical term for a device that automatically steers a vessel or vehicle; often used in maritime and aviation contexts.
この船には最新の自動操舵装置が搭載されている。
This ship is equipped with the latest automatic steering device.
自動操舵装置が故障したため、手動で操縦しなければならなかった。
Because the autopilot malfunctioned, we had to steer manually.
Common loanword for autopilot, especially in aviation; 自動操舵装置 is a more formal, kanji-based technical term often used in specifications or manuals.
Compound of 自動 (automatic), 操舵 (steering), and 装置 (device). The term is a straightforward technical coinage.