M MILITARY SYSTEMS & Technol-
MILITARY SYSTEMS & Technology www.militarysystems-tech.com
The Defence Suppliers Directory Magazine
FEATURING...
SURVIVAL SYSTEMS LIMITED CONCURRENT TECHNOLOGIES SNOWBIRD TECHNOLOGIES TSS INTERNATIONAL LUTRA ASSOCIATES NP AEROSPACE G&H | ARTEMIS MASTSYSTEM BARRETT CHELTON KROMEK OTTO 4GD RTI
...& MUCH MORE
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E. sales@militarysystems-tech.com Edition Four | December 2023
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The right proven COTS Ethernet Switches
• 1/10/25/40/100 Gigabit Ethernet • Copper/optical • 3U, 6U VPX and 1U 19’’ box • Switchware management application • Aligned with the SOSA™ Technical Standard
www.interfaceconcept.com www.militarysystems-tech.com
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CONTENTS 10
Concurrent Technologies - Launches Highest Performance Plug-In Card: TR MAA/9sd-AFT
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Chelton - Unleashing the Future: Introducing Detachable Tactical Vehicle Antennas!
e welcome you to the December 2023 edition of the MS&T magazine, and the final one for this year.
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As an established web portal for the International Defence & Aerospace Industry, we strive to provide a comprehensive and detailed listing of Military Equipment Suppliers, Products and Services. This magazine is designed to keep you up-to-date with latest news and events within the Defence Industry’s Governing Bodies, Organisations and Companies.
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G&H | Artemis - Revolutionising Battlefield Safety, State-of-the-Art Laser Protection Filters for Riflescopes
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4GD - Utilising ChatGPT Survival Systems Limited - Delivering robust high fidelity low maintenance simulation technologies
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NP Aerospace - Driving Vehicle Technology & Innovation
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Snowbird Technologies - at Modern Warfare Week Barrett - How high-tech HF radios are boosting Tobago’s disaster communications networks
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RTI - Enabling a Modular Open Systems Approach Lutra Associates - The 2023 Procurement Act and Changes it Might (or Ought To) Force
A Multi-Media Portal for the International Defence & Aerospace Industry For more information, technical guidance or the latest subscription packages available for Military Systems, please contact us where one of our team will be more than happy to advise you.
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KROMEK - No threat left unseen TSS International - LC300 Armour Mobility products tested and in service
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OTTO - Spacial Audio a Game Changer in Tactical Communication
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Plus...
LINCAD TRIMITE OXLEY CP CASES PEI GENESIS SMITHS INTERCONNECT PPM SYSTEMS OMNETICS MASTSYSTEM PELI NANUK CRFS
... & much more www.militarysystems-tech.com
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PELI™ MOBILE MILITARY PRODUCTS
THE MOST VERSATILE AND SECURE SOLUTIONS FOR IMMEDIATE MILITARY DEPLOYMENT With more than 45 years of experience Peli Products is the world leader in the manufacturer of high-performance reusable plastic cases and containers suitable for Military and Aerospace applications. Our Mobile Military products are vital components of tactical planning; they ensure the operability of mission critical gear and contribute to an efficient set up of command centers. Peli Mobile Military Solutions are watertight, airtight, impact resistant and designed to exact performance standards.
A SELECTION OF PELI MOBILE MILITARY PRODUCTS IS AVAILABLE OFF-THE-SHELF!
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MOBILE ARMORY CASES Transport and store military guns and weapons securely with Peli Mobile Armory Cases. These extremely rugged cases keep sensitive and vital military weapons safe from moisture, dust sand, salt and impact. They are made from durable polyethylene plastic and include a large variety of interesting features, like: comfort grip handles, wheather resistant seals, durable hinged lids, pressure release valves, and interiors that are custom made for the gear they hold. These cases are designed to be as tough as the people who use them.
WHEN PAPERWORK HAS TO GET DONE, PELI MOBILE OFFICE FIELD DESKS ARE THE SOLUTION Folded into one durable shipping container to become mobile in an instant, Peli’s mobile field desks are the ideal solution for dealing with paper and administrative work in the field. The attached table provides a large and flat work surface with a number of drawers of different sizes and a sturdy field chair. This comfortable chair includes a backrest and can be folded and stored in the lid in seconds.
MOBILE MEDICAL CASES These medical cases equipped with full extension sliding drawers are designed to provide maximum protection in any situation. Impervious to weather, temperature and impact, the rotationally moulded shell keeps all your medical supplies dry, dust-free, and secure. With four large drawers for the model 472-MEDCHEST34D and eight drawers including a lockable drawer for your most sensitive and vital equipment for the model 472-MEDCHEST38D, these cases provide ample storage for all your bulk items such as gauze, solvents, large prescription bottles and IV fluids. Equipped with wheels, Peli Mobile Medical cases are easy to transport anywhere you need. Peli Products also offers medical case solutions without drawers in different sizes.
Peli Field Desks contain 6 drawers with a variety of applications: • Two drawers for your paper work • Two drawers that are padlockable for extra security • Two large drawers specifically designed for Pendaflex folders
Watch video to learn more:
The Double Duty version is equipped with two field chairs, two heavy duty wheels for easy transport, and two power strips with six plugs per power strip, ensuring you always have a place to plug in your electronics.
PELI & THE MILITARY: PARTNERS IN PERFORMANCE We know lives are counting on you, so you can count on us.
For more informat ion v isit: w w w . p el i .c o m www.militarysystems-tech.com
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HOW WE MEET YOUR NEEDS
During our 40 years of operation, we have learned to ask the right questions from our customers and to produce mast systems that meet the customers’ needs. Our customer work and all of our operations are based on reliability, expertise and continuity. tested by each product in different accredited laboratories.
RELIABILITY IS THE KEY OF CO-OPERATION
We know our products, their capabilities, and where they work best. We redeem our promises every time, and we also tell you, if our solutions are not suited for your needs.
During our long company history, we have supplied tens of thousands of mast systems to over 50 countries globally. We do not use our customers to test our product, we provide mast systems that have been tested according to the MILSTD-810 standards and confirmed to work well. Due to our global operations, our mast systems need to work reliably in the different environments they are used. Tolerance to cold, sun light, ice and wind pressure, as well as the combined effect of the elements and variations of these elements are www.militarysystems-tech.com
Our customers will always receive the right and sustainable solution, keeping the life cycle costs of our products low. We also promise you that our product support will be available for the entire life cycle of our delivery and guarantee a spare parts service for our products for 15 years. 6
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EXPERTISE LEADS TO THE RIGHT SOLUTION
CONTINUITY IS BASED ON A LIFE CYCLE PARTNERSHIP
Challenge us to produce a solution that meets your needs! The initial information and technical specifications can be very specific, but it can also consist of only the required mast height and the weight of the equipment lifted to the mast. Our experts will establish the required specifications and give their opinion on the suitable solution. Our solution may be a standard product, but if needed, we will supply a custom variation of the solution to meet our customer’s needs.
Our company operates on a stable financial and ownership base. Our customers can rely on the continuity of our company and our operations. During our long company history, we have gotten used to working in a global environment and in different cultures, and always operate according to good commercial practices and local regulations. We take responsibility of our products. In addition to our product warranty, we offer a service guarantee for the spare parts and material deliveries, as well as a partnership for the entire life cycle of the delivered mast system.
With us, customisation means that we make the right choices between already available components. If the solution is different from the original design, our experts will tell you about it and explain the solution. The technical solutions of the masts we supply must serve their purpose and the customers’ needs.
FIRST STEP IN FINDING THE RIGHT SOLUTION FOR YOU
We are aware that our supplied mast system is a part of a valuable communications system or a similar structure, where each element must work.
For more information: head to mastsystem.com and fill out contact form or contact our sales team directly: sales@mastsystem.com
The production of the right mast system requires experience and expertise, which our customers are able to see from the very first contact. www.militarysystems-tech.com
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A Revolutionary Step Towards Sustainability in Protective Cases Reducing Our Carbon Footprint, One Case at a Time
In an era where environmental responsibility and cutting-edge technology intersect, Nanuk proudly unveils its latest breakthrough – the Nanuk-R Series. These high-end protective cases mark a significant leap forward in the realm of sustainability, proving that quality and eco-friendliness can seamlessly coexist.
By incorporating recycled materials into our manufacturing process, Nanuk is actively reducing the demand for virgin resins and minimizing the strain on our planet’s resources. The positive impact is tangible – each Nanuk-R case produced helps divert waste from landfills, contributing significantly to the reduction of environmental pollution.
Protecting Gear, Preserving the Planet At Nanuk, we recognize the pressing need to address environmental challenges. Our commitment to creating products that meet and exceed customer expectations goes hand in hand with our dedication to contributing to the greater good. The Nanuk-R Series represents the culmination of these efforts.
Innovative Materials, Uncompromised Performance The Nanuk-R Series is utilizing post-consumer recycled resin, ushering in a new era of responsible manufacturing without compromising on the unparalleled protection, durability, and functionality that have made Nanuk hard cases the top choice worldwide. Every case in this series is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. www.militarysystems-tech.com
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Quality Assurance Beyond Expectations Rest assured, our rigorous quality control measures remain at the forefront of our manufacturing process. Every Nanuk-R case undergoes meticulous testing to ensure it meets our stringent standards for durability, reliability, and functionality. The result? Recycled Nanuk cases that match the performance of their nonrecycled counterparts.
Choose Sustainable, Join the Solution As a customer choosing Nanuk’s recycled cases, you actively become a part of the solution. Your decision contributes to the preservation of our environment by supporting sustainable practices and the circular economy. Together, we can make a difference.
Join the Mission: Protecting Devices and the Planet Nanuk invites you to join us in our mission to protect your devices and the planet. Together, let’s reduce our carbon footprint, one case at a time. The future is here, and it’s sustainable with Nanuk-R. For more information, contact info@nanuk.eu
CERTIFICATIONS: DEF-STAN 81-41 STANAG 4280 WATER SPRAY
IP6X INGRESS PROTECTION DUSTPROOF
DEF-STAN 81-41 STANAG 4280 IMPACT
IPX7 INGRESS PROTECTION WATERPROOF
DEF-STAN 81-41 STANAG 4280 DRY HEAT
ATA SPECIFICATION 300 CATEGORY 1 IMPACT
DEF-STAN 81-41 STANAG 4280 LOW TEMP
LIFETIME WARRANTY www.militarysystems-tech.com
MILITARY APPROVED
CRUSHPROOF RESIN 9
RECYCLED RESIN T. +44 (0) 1884 258019
MADE IN CANADA
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Concurrent Technologies Launches Highest Performance Plug-In Card: TR MAA/9sd-AFT
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Concurrent Technologies (AIM: CNC), a global specialist in the design, development and manufacture of leadingedge embedded computer solutions for critical applications, has launched its highest-performance Plug-In Card (PIC) to date; TR MAA/9sd-AFT
Concurrent Technologies has launched a new variant of its flagship PIC with enhanced operational performance unlocked using an emerging cooling technology. Previously, the PIC was cooled via conduction, while the new variant uses air flowing through a heat exchanger built into the product.
Brent Salgat, President of Concurrent Technologies Inc, stated:
“We pride ourselves on delivering leading-edge, reliable and cost-effective solutions to the market. This, our highest performance PIC to date, was originally conceptualised for a leading US-based provider of mission-based solutions, and we are delighted to now launch the product for general deployment.”
This heat exchanger has been optimised using thermal simulations and verified through extensive testing to ensure it operates at peak performance under harsh environmental conditions. The benefit for customers is that they can extract more performance from the same physical card.
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Unleashing the Future: Introducing Detachable Tactical Vehicle Antennas! Military antennas, especially, often have to face hostile environments and as such need to be built to the highest standards.
Selecting a military antenna has many complex considerations; ensuring that it not only fits the application requirements but also that it performs well within a multitude of environments. Chelton’s specialist antennas are used worldwide for defence and military applications. Our extensive experience in the design and manufacture of antennas means that we are able to supply solutions even to the most complex of RF problems. www.militarysystems-tech.com
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To be successful in a future multi-domain battlefield, forces will require robust network connectivity, both when stationary and on-the-go, as well as heavy-duty and low profile antennas designed specifically for use in remote locations on armoured of civilian vehicles. Typically, an antenna for this use is made up of three major parts; 1) the antenna base, 2) the lower element and 3) the upper element. The spring absorbs shocks and vibrations while also protecting the antenna from collision. Both radiation elements are made using composite materials which enable the antenna to retain exceptional strength and roughness even in the harshest of environments.
Chelton’s ever expanding portfolio of dual element omnidirectional antennas is available in a wide range of configurations benefiting from: • Unique compact horizontally polarized antenna technology • Broadband performance • Rugged design suitable for military vehicles and marine installations • Stack solutions to eliminate co-site interference, preserve azimuth radiation patterns and reducing the number of installs per vehicle. As DSEI 2023, Chelton premiered a new configuration option which allows the user to remove an antenna from its base using a simple, highly robust mechanism that makes removal possible without the use of any tools and within an NBC environment.
The new detachable interface: • Has been developed to ensure repeatable RF connection between the base and the antenna (up to 6GHz with a lifetime of at least 500 matings) • Can support single channel and dual channel antennas • Has been designed to cope with dust and dirt at the mating surfaces • Has been designed with an anti-rotation feature to protect the connection and prevent damage during installation and removal • Is internally protected and waterproof to IP68. Contact us at info@chelton.com or via www.chelton.com to speak with our Sales & Engineering team at and discuss your tactical vehicle antenna requirements.
chelton.com www.militarysystems-tech.com
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Precision. Performance. Reliability. Because Timing is Everything. Since 1961, Greenray Industries has been a preferred provider of precision quartz crystal oscillators to many of the world’s leading military, defense and industrial manufacturers. Designed with a range of critical innovations that enhance both performance and reliability, our precision oscillators help customers realize their unique frequency control solutions. On the ground, in the air – and beyond. Greenray TCXOs feature temperature stabilities of 1ppm or less and are available from 20 KHz to 1 GHz. We incorporate leading-edge design and innovative manufacturing techniques to produce TCXOs that offer tight stability, low phase noise and ultra-low g-sensitivity. For information about Greenray high-performance reference source solutions, visit www.greenrayindustries.com or call +1 717.766.0223 and talk to a frequency control expert today.
frequency control solutions
5G & Stratum3 l Smart Munitions l SATCOM l Telemetry l Airborne Communications Radar l Mobile Communications l & Identification www.militarysystems-tech.com T. +44 (0) 1884 258019 E. sales@militarysystems-tech.com 14 GPS l Detection
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SLINGER. HARD KILL. ON THE MOVE.
High probability kill for less number of rounds Superior accuracy, achieves longer range engagements Integrates seamlessly with centralised systems or functions as a standalone unit
World-leading counter-drone technology made in Australia, exported to the world.
Mounts on military and commercial vehicles, or a 昀xed site Requires minimal training and is easy to use
WATCH SLINGER IN ACTION
NO ONE KILLS DRONES LIKE EOS www.eos-aus.com/slinger www.militarysystems-tech.com
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Revolutionising Battlefield Safety G&H | Artemis Unveils State-of-the-Art Laser Protection Filters for Riflescopes
G&H | Artemis, a leading innovator in optical coating and filtering technology, proudly announces a groundbreaking range of laser protection filters designed specifically for riflescopes.
unparalleled protection against battlefield lasers, ensuring optimal safety and effectiveness for operators and soldiers in the field. In today's ever-evolving and technology-driven battlefield environments, the use of lasers for targeting, ranging, and countermeasures is on the rise. Recognizing the critical need for advanced protection against laser threats, G&H | Artemis has engineered a state-of-the-art solution that prioritizes operator safety without compromising operational effectiveness.
Developed through extensive industry consultations and prioritizing the safety of our soldiers, these filters offer
Key Features of the Laser Protection Filters: • Comprehensive Protection: Fitted to the objective lens of riflescopes, these laser protection filters offer comprehensive defence against various battlefield lasers, including spotters, rangefinders, illuminators, and countermeasures. • Maintaining Technological Advantage: By integrating these filters into riflescopes, operators and soldiers can operate effectively in laser-intensive environments, safeguarding against being 'dazzled' or blinded by lasers and ensuring optimal performance in critical situations. www.militarysystems-tech.com
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• Versatility and Compatibility: Engineered for versatility, these filters are compatible with a wide range of riflescopes, offering an adaptable solution for various military applications.
lies in the development of customized, system-enabling optical filtering, mirror, and window alternatives. Our comprehensive offerings, spanning from 400nm to the Long wave infrared, cater to the diverse needs and applications of industries such as Defence, Aerospace, Industrial, and Life Sciences. At G&H | Artemis, we are committed to advancing the field of optics, specializing in the design and development of cutting-edge technologies specifically tailored for military and defence applications.
• Durability and Performance: Crafted with the highest quality materials, the laser protection filters are built to withstand the rigors of military operations. Their robust design ensures consistent performance in challenging conditions. G&H | Artemis is dedicated to advancing the safety and effectiveness of military personnel through cutting-edge technological solutions. This innovative product signifies a significant milestone in our ongoing mission to provide military professionals with the tools they need to excel in the modern battlefield.
Driven by a dedication to innovation, quality, and reliability, our mission is to empower military and security professionals with the tools they need to excel in the most challenging environments. G&H | Artemis is at the forefront of providing advanced optics solutions that redefine possibilities and enhance the capabilities of those on the front lines.
About G&H | Artemis: G&H | Artemis is a distinguished thin-film coating company, globally recognized for its expertise in a diverse range of cutting-edge applications. Renowned as leaders in designing optical filters for tailored electro-optical and laser protection, as well as bespoke head-up display combiners, our true specialty www.militarysystems-tech.com
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LOOKING FOR A BESPOKE SOLUTION?
FOLLOW US ON
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C P
C A S E S
NEWS
5 ADVANTAGES OF CUSTOM-MADE CASES FOR EQUIPMENT When transporting any type of equipment, you want to ensure maximum protection so that it doesn’t get damaged. However, traditional cases can’t always offer this assurance due to the nuances of different types of equipment. This is where custom-made cases make all the difference. Expensive equipment can be kept safe with cases that are designed solely to protect your equipment against rough handling, extreme climates and anything else that comes it's way.
Custom-made case product options Now that you know the countless advantages of custom cases, it’s worth understanding the different ways in which cases can be customised for your specific equipment needs. With so many product options available, it can be overwhelming, which is why at CP Cases we offer expert advice for each unique case.
5 advantages of custom-made cases for equipment Custom-made equipment cases boast several advantages over standard cases thanks to the high-quality materials and customisable parts. Bespoke cases work flexibly around your essential equipment.
Printing, labelling and branding Making your equipment instantly recognisable in a busy warehouse or airport can save a lot of time and hassle. What’s more, our printing, labelling and branding can also help enforce a positive image of your company, boosting your recognition with clients and at events. Your unique branding represents your business and what better place for it than on the equipment cases you use on a daily basis? From silk screen printing to engraved labels and sewn-on badges — custom cases are truly an extension of your organisation.
Designed to meet your specific equipment case needs Any shape, size or quantity is catered for with custom-made cases. This means that your equipment will be guaranteed to be protected against all potential hazards. Whether you require a reinforced rugged case for rough handling or a cooling system to protect electronic equipment from overheating, custom cases listen to your specific needs and exacting requirements. You know your equipment and what it needs to be protected against, and a custom case can provide the perfect all-inone solution. Protects your high-value equipment The main purpose of a case is to protect your expensive equipment, being able to ensure the full protection of valuable items offers the ultimate peace of mind. You need to be confident in relying on your equipment and a custom case ensures exactly that. Custom cases are made from robust materials such as polyethylene polymer to withstand impacts and the custom foam ensures a snug and secure fit. Transports equipment easily Lightweight polyethylene polymer makes lifting and transporting equipment much easier. Custom handles can ensure that cases can be safely transported without rough handling or accidental damage. Companies that regularly transport equipment can add wheels to cases to minimise the physical effort of moving heavy items. Additional fittings such as pressure valves can be another great option when transporting valuable equipment. The key to a great custom case is the expert behind it, who can offer advice on what works best for your equipment. Saves on air freight costs If you regularly ship equipment by air, custom cases can save a great deal of money. The extremely lightweight materials will significantly reduce air freight costs. On top of this, valuable equipment can get damaged when transported by air. Thankfully, custom cases use extremely durable materials to ensure that your equipment can withstand rough handling. Excellent strength and durability At CP Cases, our custom cases make protecting your equipment its priority. Using high-quality polyethylene polymer, custom cases are ruggedised, reliable and strong. The rotomoulding process ensures that edges and corners are reinforced, protecting equipment from any accidental damage. Custom foam inserts cushion equipment, absorbing any impact and preventing items from moving out of place during transportation. The main reason for commissioning a custom case is to keep your equipment safe, which is exactly why strength and durability are so important.
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Partitions and dividers The purpose of a custom case is to fully support the use of your equipment and meet specific access needs. As a result, custom partitions and dividers can help you organise equipment and separate items to make your job easier. Using CAD tools, precise drawings can be translated into high-quality partitions and dividers that specifically work for your equipment, shielding valuable or volatile items from one another. Make the most out of your custom case by including partitions to ensure your equipment is safe and protected. EMC/EMI shielding EMI stands for electromagnetic interference which refers to the effect that a magnetic field can have on other devices nearby. When electricity flows into a conductor, this generates a magnetic field which can easily interfere with data signals. So, EMI shielding protects against this, ensuring that your equipment runs smoothly. If you have valuable specialist equipment that you need to rely on, you can fit your custom case with EMI shielding in which a metallic shield is placed around your equipment, absorbing any incoming signals. Not only should a case protect your equipment but enhance its performance. External finishing External finishing options on custom cases are designed to meet your exact requirements in both appearance and functionality. For example, aluminium cases can be produced in plain or rigidised aluminium with surface finishes from powder coating to anti-reflective finishes. These options can both work to boost durability whilst adhering to your brand aesthetic. The finishing touches to your custom case can add an extra layer of protection and practicality whilst giving a unique identity to your equipment. Fittings and options In order for custom cases to be truly fit for purpose they need to be customisable right down to the construction itself. Being able to access and transport your equipment in the most practical way possible is paramount at CP Cases. From adding wheels to make moving heavy equipment easier to pressure relief valves that ensure maximum protection, you can add additional fittings and options to optimise how you use and transport your equipment. Sophisticated locks can be added to boost security and handles to ensure safety when picking up heavy equipment. A custom protective case is the ultimate bespoke solution to transporting your valuable equipment, keeping it safe and maximising its performance. We rely on our equipment in multiple high-pressure situations, so having a customisable case that works for your exacting requirements is the ideal companion.
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4GD TO UTILISE CHATGPT in its robotic targetry to train soldiers Close combat training technology specialists, 4GD, have been awarded a contract by the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) to integrate the ChatGPT language model into its robotic targets (SimStriker). This will allow soldiers to have dynamic conversations with the target. 4GD will work with its partners NIAXO, a software solutions company, to create varied and realistic military training scenarios. SimStriker, which started development in 2020, represents a new generation of intelligent training adversary. It has added a layer of tactical performance analysis to the 4GD SmartFacility, which is currently in service with the British Army’s 16 Air www.militarysystems-tech.com
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Assault Brigade in Colchester. In 2022, the facility was used for more than 1,200 hours by the Air Assault Brigade, the Essex Police and the MOD police.
in conjunction with our industry partners, 4GD continues to adapt our solutions to achieve the best training outcomes. 4GD’s flagship SmartFacility was designed to bring realism to military training simulations and utilising AI adds another dimension of reality to urban warfare scenarios.”
Currently, the target is fitted with “hit-zone” sensors capable of accurately recording the precision and fire rate of soldiers. Hightech instruments inside the body can also pick up movement, light and sound enabling the target to vocally respond, raise the alarm, shoot back with non-lethal ammunition and drop on its base when engaged.
About 4GD 4GD specialise in bringing the most cutting-edge technologies to the defence market, in order to reduce the distance between operational reality and training. We use technology to drive operator performance by increasing levels of realism, providing scalable complexity and delivering targeted improvements, all whilst making the systems more intuitive for the user. We already have capability optimising performance in elite units in both the USA & UK.
This latest development of SimStriker, using OpenAI’s ChatGPT system, will enable the operator to configure, or select preconfigured scenarios. The training personnel will be able to verbally interact with the SimStriker in a fluid manner; literally having a synthetic conversation with the equipment. Further to this, 4GD will integrate this behavioural dynamic with simulated social media feeds, and other environmental stimuli. The benefit of this will be that the training scenario will be both physically immersive, and also cognitively dynamic. James Crowley, 4GD Business Development Director, said:
To find out more visit: “We are excited about the latest stage in the development of SimStriker. This contract award from DASA is proof that, www.militarysystems-tech.com
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FIDELITY IS ALL FOR SURVIVAL SYSTEMS LIMITED Based in Nova Scotia, Canada SSL was founded in 1982. SSL is committed to the preserving human life by delivering robust high fidelity low maintenance simulation technologies providing realistic performance-oriented survival and safety training. Acknowledged as a leader in the field, the company is renowned for its in-depth experience and enjoys global brand recognition.
aircraft results in common understanding and reduces nugatory meetings and explanations.
SSL is consulted as trusted expert advisors backed up by published R&D, customer reference and ultimately, survivors’ testimonials. SSL’s on time and within budget delivery is hugely regarded by clients and highly valued.
So much for the principles if you like the dejure, what about the de facto, the reality. Two recent examples are the METS® Model CHINOOK and METS® Model Apache. The former built onto a modular platform, the latter an individual design. The whole thinking behind the METS® is Modularity. The abbreviation is actually Modular Egress Training Simulators. The idea is that by having one basic platform you can attach standard panels which closely resemble the aspects of the real platform. Thus, the exits are in the same places and the same size as the real thing. The obstacles that might prevent you getting to an exit are the same size as the real thing. This even extends to the way the exits operate. If they operate in a certain way on one version of the real thing and another on a different version by replacing the relevant panel the METS® is quickly converted. By using the same platform and standard panels two SSL trained instructors/maintainers can convert a platform from one helicopter type to another in the same class (small, medium and large) in approximately 30 minutes. Thus, for CHINOOK the platform is the same as for other large and medium helicopter and takes advantage of the modularity of METS® to use configuration panels. This allows the configuration to be built on existing bases or the CHINOOK base to be used for future aircraft types.
Detailed interior cockpit measurements, canopy release / jettison mechanisms, and photos of the specific aircraft (or boat or vehicle) are required. Collection these data is a detailed process requiring close collaboration between SSL and the Client. Accurate configurations can be agreed, enabling SSL to quickly commence design and manufacture of critical components and do this expensive process just once.
Once the end user confirms the selected airframes it is crucial to determine the aircraft configurations and variants the customer wants for the mission and roles the aircraft will be used for. It’s critical that SSL it is gets involved in these discussions early in the process. The modular design of SSL’s Modular Egress Training Simulator (METS®) incorporates moveable, interchangeable interior and exterior panels; interior bulkheads; pilot, pax (troop), and passenger seats; consoles; and other components found in the aircraft being emulated. This approach enables customization of the METS® to replicate specific airframes roles, e.g., Anti-Submarine Warfare [ASW], Search and Rescue, Utility [passenger transfer], Special Operations). This creates a high-fidelity training environment that results in positive training outcomes which increases aircrew and passenger survivability. Whilst airframes may be generic (e.g. AW-101); aircraft manufacturers will sometimes move emergency exits, change exit size or exit release operation (e.g. push out, pull in, mechanical) to suit the operational role or accommodate a specific customer requirement. As well as exits the cockpit and cabin layouts including for example, consoles, machine guns, egress bars, types of seats, restraint harnesses etc will differ between users. SSL has a catalogue of METS® aircraft exits and equipment and can accommodate these differences.
APACHE is a different issue. The aircraft configuration, long and lean rather than bulbous with carrying capacity, is not suited to the standard bases so a bespoke design was created. The process is the same, the same attention to detail had to be applied and the same considerations given to all the factors such as health and safety, system maximization, fidelity to the real aircraft and usability and utility. The result is an outstanding simulator liked by trainers and trainees alike.
To achieve the fidelity required is crucial to establish good communication between the end user and SSL, preferably on site around an aircraft following or even before contract signature. To achieve this SSL usually enters into direct communications with the client’s aircraft mission specialists. Joint viewing and measuring the www.militarysystems-tech.com
The trainer/maintainer expression is actually superfluous because all trainers are trained to carry out the maintenance activities required on a pre and post use, daily, weekly monthly and quarterly basis. SSL only 22
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It is difficult to tell the real CHINOOK from the SSL simulator. The clues are; water has to drain away and the view out of the rear of the aircraft
get involved in maintenance when something goes wrong (such as a discussion between a METS® and a forklift) or six-monthly services where specialist activity such as continued compatibility with safety and control systems and tolerances are checked and adjustments made if needed.
cheap price.”, quality will always be the best value. In any event a death or injury caused by flawed financial decision making probably does not have a price. H&S seldom does and the number of accountants who do not understand this simple issue and then try to wriggle out of the issue at the inevitable inquest is surprising.
Another advantage of METS® is that it a matched with the SSL lifting systems such as the Twin Gantry Hoist (TGH™), Cross Gantry Hoist (XGH™) and the Jib series (SmartJib™ Model 12,000 and Jib Crane Model 6000) and safety factors required by Personnel Lifting Regulations. The follow through form this is that things like safety settings hoist speeds etc and hook linkages with the relevant levels of redundancy come as an SSL system set and are checked in the 6 monthly inspections.
This culture of care and attention and use of in-house experience and using international and SSL’s renown inhouse R&D has resulted in METS™ versions for fast jets, amphibious vehicles, RHIBS, fast rescue and harbour patrol craft in fact almost anything that goes in, on or over water. Couple that with training facilities such as Theaters and flight decks for firefighting training and there is the complete package of Training and Simulation that has resulted in facilities and equipment in more than 30 countries.
If you mix and match platform manufacturer and hoist systems, you may well mis-match and give yourself Health and Safety issues. It might seem a cheap option but two Middle Eastern Proverb are apposite: “It is cheap because it is.”, and “The Bitterness of failure outlasts the Joy of a www.militarysystems-tech.com
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CRFS DEPLOYMENT S
PHOTO: TEKEVER AR-5
TACTICAL IN-FIELD DEPLOYMENTS OF RF SYSTEMS FOR SPECTRUM DOMINANCE Using advanced RF technology to master the electromagnetic spectrum is vital to gaining battle昀eld superiority. CRFS helps militaries worldwide achieve spectrum dominance through our innovative RF sensors. Developing strategic partnerships allows us to integrate this technology into larger systems.
Air: 昀xed-wing drone integration Integrating tactical 昀xed-wing medium altitude drones with RF sensors yields an advanced ISR solution through 360° situational awareness and increased line-of-sight. Also, as increasing altitude allows signals to be detected at greater distances, spectrum monitoring receivers can be operated at greater distances from active combat zones.
MULTI-DOMAIN INTEGRATION OPTIONS CRFS’ latest tactical military RF systems are already deployed in the in-昀eld. These systems allow users to carry out real-time passive RF spectrum monitoring and geolocation for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO) applications.
Air: tethered drone integration Integrating a tethered drone with an RF sensor as a payload enhances line-of-sight and operational range. The tether provides continuous power for extended operations and a reliable data link for real-time transfer. These drones can be deployed rapidly from the back of a truck to create an instant aerial tower without 昀xed infrastructure and can be repositioned quickly to adapt to changing operational scenarios.
In hostile conditions, these capabilities give military forces a tactical advantage by allowing them to detect, measure, and monitor RF signals quickly. To gain real-time battle昀eld awareness and respond rapidly in dynamic situations, they can determine the following: •
Who or what is generating the RF signals
•
Where the signals are coming from
•
What counteraction is needed
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Land: tactical vehicle integration V-Track is a TRL-9 mobile spectrum monitoring system and ISR solution. RF sensors are deployed in specialist vehicles—operating independently or in squads—to monitor, record, and capture signals. Operators can deploy quick dismounted systems and integrate with ISR drones for joint land and air missions.
Equinox Innovative Systems and CRFS worked together to mount an RF receiver and antenna onto a rapidly deployable tethered drone. The drone can elevate to 400 feet (121 meters) and functions as an eye in the sky for military ISR, spectrum analysis, geolocation, communications, and SIGINT.
SYSTEMS DESIGNED TO MEET CUSTOMER NEEDS
Sea: Unmanned surface vessels As unmanned surface vessel operations expand, it is essential to safeguard their Primary, Alternate, Contingency and Emergency (PACE) plans from jamming and unintended civilian disruptions in coastal areas. CRFS provides spectrum monitoring solutions for USV MIMO MESH networks in bays, lagoons, and archipelagos. This system can automatically detect and locate sources of jamming, ensuring consistent USV communication.
CRFS projects are driven directly by our customers’ needs. The ideas behind systems to be deployed in the 昀eld should come from the 昀eld—and we quickly build these systems to be rapidly deployed. Our COTS sensors are powerful, ruggedized, and optimized for SWaP. CRFS sensors are multifunctional, allowing them to be repurposed or interchanged across missions and applications.
INTEGRATING CRFS SENSORS INTO SYSTEMS Together with our partners, CRFS has answered our customers’ tactical requirements and calls for multidomain superiority by giving war昀ghters advanced ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) capabilities.
www.crfs.com
Aeronautics and CRFS developed a project for a European military customer looking to enhance its SIGINT / ELINT capability. CRFS integrated RF sensor technology within the Aeronautics Aerostar UAV range to enhance RF signal detection, capture, and geolocation missions across a wideband spectrum range (10MHz–18GHz).
CRFS is an RF technology specialist for defense, national security agencies and systems integration partners. We provide advanced capabilities for real-time spectrum monitoring, situational awareness and electronic warfare support to help our customers understand and exploit the electromagnetic environment.
TEKEVER and CRFS successfully integrated subtactical unmanned aerial systems (UAS) with highly sensitive RF sensors as a payload. The wide-area surveillance UAS housing ruggedized RF sensors offers unparalleled spectrum monitoring, detection, signal capture, and geolocation (TDoA) capabilities for the military end user.
PHOTO: CRFS VTRACK A150
RAFAEL and CRFS collaborated on behalf of a European NATO member that wanted to add advanced RF capabilities to its Drone Dome™. CRFS enhanced RAFAEL’s RF detection and geolocation capability by integrating RFeye technology, which performs highly-accurate RF-based drone detection across a wide range of threat vectors and over an extensive operational range.
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R F I N T EG R AT I O N S O L U T I O N S
DEPLOYMENTS FOR SPECTRUM DOMINANCE DRONE INTEGRATION
TETHERED DRONE
TACTICAL VEHICLE
UNMANNED
INTEGRATION
INTEGRATION
SURFACE VESSELS
CRFS’ innovative RF sensors help military forces across the globe achieve spectrum dominance. Integrated into larger systems, our technology enables real-time battlefield awareness and the ability to respond rapidly in dynamic situations.
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Cutting-edge Connectivity Reliable and customizable solutions for mission critical applications Resistive and Wilkinson Power Dividers for Space, Defense and Communication Markets ▪
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Proven thin film process technology providing small size, light weight, and level of power in a cost-effective, easy-to-implement more > smithsinterconnect.com surface mount solution
A Multi-Media Defence Directory & Design Agency under one roof Serving the International Defence & Aerospace Industry. Design, Print & Web solutions for all marketing requirements.
To list your company or find out more about our wide range of services, please visit:
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DRIVING VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION Mission Critical Protection
As a vehicle integrator with a heritage of developing military platforms for worldwide conflicts, developing next generation technology to meet the needs of global defence organisations is critical for NP Aerospace. Every year the Vehicle Systems, Services & Spares Business Unit expands its technology roadmap working with industry and presents key developments to military organisations to encourage an exchange of ideas.
Engineering David Wilson and David Petheram SVP & MD, covering topics such as battlefield electrification, spiral development, future land mobility programmes and green energy. It highlighted the importance of linking innovation to key military aims and objectives such as green energy, pan platform technologies which reduce cost and complexity and features which decrease user cognitive burden. Since the company’s last innovation day at HORIBA-Mira in 2022, NP Aerospace has proven various new technologies such as autonomous drive, the introduction of hybrid electric drive on the Foxhound and Jackal and the re-engineered Mastiff XC for advanced offroad performance. The next steps are looking at how to productionise HED technologies, the introduction of GVA systems to have better comms in theatre, and how to integrate the latest battery technologies onto a variety of platforms.
This year was no exception. The company hosted a Vehicle Innovation Day at UTAC Millbrook proving ground for the UK Ministry of Defence and partners to showcase new vehicle integration technologies. The event included activity being delivered via the UK Protected Mobility Engineering & Technical Support contract managed by NP Aerospace. Innovations included new offroad drive systems, modular hybrid technology, mortar system integration and Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA), alongside vehicle build innovation from OEMs new to the UK and vehicle maintenance programmes.
Mastiff XC New Spiral Development The latest iteration of the Mastiff XC was test driven on the UTAC Millbrook off road course. The vehicle system developed in conjunction with Horstman now features a spiral development which
Innovation Presentation The event included a presentation from NP Aerospace Director of
Innovation Presentation
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Mastiff XC New Spiral Development
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Nurol Makina team showcasing new vehicle build innovation
ST Engineering: Ground deployed mortar system
ST Engineering: MRO Programmes, Hybrid Technology & Mortar Systems
reduces burden on the user, reduces power draw and improves performance. The vehicle delivers greater speeds for adjustment and features a new thinner bar armour solution.
The team from Singaporean company ST Engineering were in the UK to demonstrate Maintenance Repair & Overhaul (MRO), Hybrid Technology, 120mm Ground Deployed Mortar Systems. The Hybrid system builds on the work NP Aerospace has completed on the TD6 HED programme, offering a modular approach for heavy wheeled applications which can be applied to any vehicle fleet, with options to scale to varying weight classes of vehicles. The MRO activities will cover how NP Aerospace can support military organisations with data collection, and the development of machine learning to provide the insights and predictive maintenance activities required to improve fleet availability.
New to the UK Vehicle Platforms The Nurol Makina team showcased new vehicle build innovation via the NMS-L 4x4 vehicle and Ejder Yalcin ‘Dragon’ vehicles which have been used on operation in Turkey, Estonia, and other European countries. The platforms have a unique bolt on vehicle architecture which enables faster panel replacements and offers a cost effective solution in theatre.
TECHNOLOGY PARTNER SHOWCASE NP Aerospace continues to expand its industry partnerships working with companies bringing new innovations to the defence sector that have a positive impact on vehicle operational performance and through life support and maintenance.
ITS Interactive AESPs ITS showcased new interactive AESPs which move technical vehicle publications into a software driven easy to use platform. These provide both a base for further expansion of digitization and the development of platform digital twins. Interactive parts ordering and maintenance software is particularly beneficial for smaller manufacturers, enabling them to have an online presence.
Frestems: Modular Battlefield Ambulance Architecture The team from NP Aerospace showcased a new ambulance system alongside the Ridgback vehicles, demonstrating easy access in case of emergency.
Future Vehicle Developments
Ultra PCS: Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA) & Drone Integration
The NP Aerospace Vehicle Systems, Services & Spares Business continues to expand its vehicle integration technology portfolio working with global organisations. Contact David.wilson@npaerospace.com for more information.
The new Electronics Architecture Kit (UltraEAK) from PCS comprises of a data network ‘ring’, smart power distribution and Platform Gateway Interface (PGI) software. The EAK was integrated onto a Coyote vehicle, featuring a front and rear mounted crew station, with forward and rear cameras and the integration of a tethered drone. The GVA system demonstrated how a ‘walk on fit’ could be accommodated and offers a universal approach to centralised command systems.
npaerospace.com
Frestems: Modular Battlefield Ambulance Architecture
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ITS Interactive AESPs
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POWER TO DELIVER EVEN IN THE HARSHEST CONDITIONS For over 35 years, Lincad has been designing and producing batteries and charging systems for the defence sector, where military grade performance is required. Our product portfolio demonstrates the very latest in battery and charger design and technology, powering mission critical applications in the most demanding environments. Our custom batteries power electrified military and armoured vehicles ensuring success on every single mission across-
LAND, SEA and AIR www.lincad.co.uk T: +44 (0) 1252 894600 E: contactus@lincad.co.uk www.militarysystems-tech.com
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POWERING MISSION CRITICAL APPLICATIONS IN THE MOST DEMANDING ENVIRONMENTS Lincad has a long history of specialising in military batteries and chargers offering ruggedised, reliable and practical power solutions across land, sea and air to ensure success on every single mission. We have expanded our industry-leading technology to a range of markets around the world, working closely with customers to ensure their precise requirements are satisfied. www.lincad.co.uk +44 (0)1252 894600 contactus@lincad.co.uk www.militarysystems-tech.com
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Mine Blast & Utility Seat Systems
The SCHROTH Mine Blast Protected Seat Systems are tubular lightweight systems with a unique resettable Energy Absorbing (EA) system designed into the seat. The Mine Blast protected seating system is available in two versions:
The EA design and technology comes from the years of experience SCHROTH has with energy management in seatbelt systems. The design of the seat gives the occupant not only excellent protection in a mine blast event, but also offers excellent protection in the event of an accident or impact. The All Belts to Seat (ABTS) design allows the vehicle manufacturer to optimize the installation of the seat within the hull. An integrated footrest can also be incorporated into the seating system for additional lower-leg protection. The unique SCHROTH EA technology is tunable to match the size and weight of the vehicle as well as the level of protection required and the available space within the vehicle interior. The EA is also designed to reset itself and offer high levels of protection for the secondary (slam down) event. www.militarysystems-tech.com
• SU-62 compact forward- or rear-facing seat • SU-63 side-facing seat with full or side specific headrest for exceptional side impact protection The SCHROTH seating comes standard with an ECE certified lightweight 4-point harness restraint. Restraint systems with ECE complaint 5-point seatbelts are also available. SCHROTH offers the ideal system for military personnel & troop transport configurations. 32
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KEY FEATURES • Quick release, wall-mounted interface • Modular construction • Spring Loaded Self-Folding, storable seat pan • Foldable backrest
CUSTOM APPLICATIONS Our lightweight seat systems may be adapted to many ground vehicle applications. We can assist with interface, integration, installation and ergonomic requirements as well as any vehicle specific seat modifications that may be required.
CONTACT: Werner Koch Tel: +49 2932 97420 E-Mail: werner.koch@eu.schroth.com www.militarysystems-tech.com
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ACTIVATED CARBON CLOTH FOR THE DEFENCE SECTOR Flexzorb™ - The flexible, lightweight protective textile that is widely used by many of the world’s leading defence vendors, making us the leading provider of activated carbon cloth for defence applications. Lightweight and breathable, Flexzorb is used in a range of defence applications, including: – CBRN Respirator filtration media – CBRN Personal protective equipment (PPE) – CBRN decontamination wipes – Missile decoy media – Phosphine gas adsorption media
WHEN FAILURE ISN’T AN OPTION Chemviron, the European Operation of Calgon Carbon Corporation, has a long history of protecting and defending troops with our activated carbon products, and we remain committed to providing adsorbents to combat chemical warfare agents. In an environment where there is no room for failure, why wouldn’t you rely on products that have been used and trusted for over half a century?
© Crown copyright 2020
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at Modern Warfare Week Snowbird Technologies demonstrated the patented Snowbird Additive Mobile Manufacturing Technology platform — SAMM Tech — at the 2023 Modern Warfare Week on November 16, 2023.
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Modern Warfare Week is an annual event facilitated by the Global Special Operations Forces Foundation — GlobalSOF — that brings the SOF community together for a week of networking, learning, and hands-on demonstrations. This year's event took place November 13-16 at Ft. Liberty, North Carolina. The focus of the event was to educate and connect through discussions about the future of warfare from a SOF perspective. The agenda for the last day of the event was the demo day, where industry and businesses demonstrated their products in a field setting. Snowbird
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Technologies found this to be an ideal opportunity to showcase its new metal 3D printer for contested logistics and forward-operating environments. SAMM Tech is a first-of-its-kind deployable additive manufacturing system that can print and machine larger complex metal parts in remote locations. The patented gantry technology performs metal additive and subtractive manufacturing while surviving harsh climates and rough terrain. Using laser-powered directed energy deposition and standard welding wire, users can repair parts or 3D print new parts as large as 250 cubic feet. Attendees were given an operational view of how the printer processes a drawing and completes a production cycle including 3D printing and CNC finishing a part in one system. In addition to SAMM Tech, Snowbird Technologies showcased an air-to-water generator (AWG) and SMART Environmental Control Unit. The AWG produced potable drinking water onsite without a ground source. The SMART ECU demonstrated the latest telematics capabilities to monitor and diagnose a network of ECUs from one central location. standards or applications, but Snowbird Technologies keeps the warfighter at the top of mind when designing these deployable, ruggedized pieces to support the mission.”
“At the GlobalSOF demonstration day, we were able to showcase the durability, functionality, and efficiency that Snowbird Technologies builds into every piece of equipment,” said Jeremy Heerdink, Vice President of Business Development. “Our diverse equipment portfolio echoes the same message – this is the equipment you need to succeed in remote, harsh conditions at the point-of-need. Not all manufacturers are building to these
Snowbird Technologies will be representing its additive manufacturing capabilities at shows throughout 2024, beginning with the 8th Annual Military Additive Manufacturing Summit & Technology Showcase in Tampa, Florida, January 16-17.
About Snowbird Technologies With more than 31 years of experience in designing and manufacturing specialized cooling and water systems, the Snowbird Technologies brand is synonymous with innovative solutions for extreme environments. Today, Snowbird offers a range of custom-built environmental control units, air water generators, and now the impressive SAMMTech 3D printer system providing support for users in military and industrial markets. For more information, visit:
www.snowbirdtech.com 7749 Bayberry Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 | 904-739-1300
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REVOLUTIONIZING READINESS
MAKE IT
The Snowbird Additive Mobile Manufacturing Technology platform — SAMM Tech — was designed by the military for the military to sustain missions in the most remote locations around the world.
WHERE THEY
BREAK IT
SAMM Tech is a hybrid manufacturing platform built inside an intermodal shipping container that features 3D metal printing and CNC capabilities. Users can produce large metal parts on demand at the pointof-need, revolutionizing the defense supply chain and contested logistics.
2024 Military Additive Manufacturing Summit & Technology Showcase | January 16-17 | Tampa, Florida | Booth 515 |
CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE! RFQ@SNOWBIRDTECH.COM | WWW.SNOWBIRDTECH.COM/ADDITIVE www.militarysystems-tech.com
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How high-tech HF radios are boosting Tobago’s disaster communications networks Automatic link establishment in high-frequency (HF) radios means a faster response from emergency management teams and a reduced need for experienced operators. he disaster management agency in the Caribbean island nation of Tobago is bolstering its emergency response systems. Tight state budgets and the increasing frequency of disasters as a result of climate change have led island officials to search for solutions and improved emergency communication equipment, including HF radios.
T
The tiny island is about 30 miles long and just over 10 miles wide at its longest point, possessing beautiful but rugged terrain. Its geographic location means the island is often hit by droughts, earthquakes, flooding and landslides. Just outside the hurricane belt, Tobago is still occasionally struck by devastating weather events such as Hurricane Ivan in 2004.
Calls for help were answered by Australia-based Barrett Communications, who have donated HF radios, antennas, and state-of-the-art equipment to the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA).
Crucially, the United Nations Development Programme has identified small island developing states as those most vulnerable to climate change. As part of this classification, Tobago is vulnerable to temperature increases, changes in precipitation and
A scout in Tobago uses a Barrett Communications high-frequency radio. (Photo provided by TEMA)
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sea level rises. Other vulnerabilities include rising risks of flooding, increased frequency and intensity of hurricanes, hillside erosion and loss of coastal habitats. Now, the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) is preparing for the likelihood of a rising number of extreme weather events due to climate change. With an urgent need to modernise its disaster response capabilities, the TEMA team was faced with another hurdle – inadequate state budgets made worse by Covid-19. Tourism is Tobago’s primary economic driver, and the sector fell flat during the pandemic. Budgets assigned to certain teams at the start of the pandemic were reallocated to ensure the island could handle the impact of Covid-19. However, authorities still had to be prepared for other emergencies. “We still had a responsibility to provide emergency management services and be ready for a meteorological event,” says Allen Stewart, director of TEMA.
Radio networks for emergency response teams
Cub Scouts communicated across the world as part of a wider initiative (Photo provided by TEMA)
Curtis Roberts, a telecommunications officer at TEMA who also is an experienced radio operator, said that a severe weather event in November 2004 – after Hurricane Ivan struck the island just two months prior – was a turning point in the island’s approach towards emergency management. The storm caused landslides that downed powerlines and disrupted cellular communication. Roads and telecommunication infrastructure was heavily damaged, and the TEMA team relied heavily on HF radio systems during the recovery period. The team began integrating HF radios into their telecommunications plan.
need for an experienced radio operator. This means that there’s a bigger pool of people within an organisation who can operate the radio in the event of a disaster. Explaining how easy the radios are to use, Roberts points to a recent initiative where youth scouts in Tobago teamed up the amateur radio fraternity and used the Barrett 4050 radios, a portable 10M mast and the SWC-100 broadband antenna to communicate with scouts around the world.
“We knew it was important to create an HF radio network,” says Roberts. Over the past nearly two decades, the TEMA team has worked systematically to implement the best practices, as laid out by the UN. There are additional efforts underway to create an interconnected region-wide radio network across the Caribbean to prepare for future events.
Improving disaster response with robust radio networks
Barrett donated 12 HF radios, including two 4050 touchscreen SDR radios, one of which is mounted in a pelican case and equipped for rapid deployment; the other is a base radio. TEMA also received six PRC-2090 radios, two of which can be deployed as manpacks allowing emergency response teams to easily navigate tropical jungles and rugged terrain to reach people in need. The Barrett equipment also means that teams can easily navigate tropical jungles and rugged terrain to reach people in need. Of the four Barrett 2050 radios, two will be used as base radios, allowing for communication with response teams in the field.
Without automatic link establishment, a trained radio operator has to find the right frequency, involving trial and error, and most crucially – time.
“The donation makes us leaders in disaster response communications in this region,” says Stewart.
“Now we have to modernise to continue to increase the effectiveness of that sector, and a big part of that is the [radio] automatic link establishment,” says Roberts.
“With the automatic link establishment, it allows us to program about 15 HF frequencies in the Barrett ALE radios, and the radio automatically chooses the right frequency. It takes out the inefficiency and it speeds up the process,” says Roberts.
www.barrettcomms.com
TEMA is using the 4050 HF SDR Barrett radios that are equipped with this automatic link establishment, which Roberts says ultimately makes his team more effective responders. He added that the automatic link establishment also removes the www.militarysystems-tech.com
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ENABLING A MODULAR OPEN SYSTEMS APPROACH RTI software provides the standards-compliant connectivity foundation for hundreds of the world’s mission-critical Aerospace and Defense system designs
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RTI Connext®, based on the open DDS standard, is the commercial leader in real-time software frameworks for mission critical systems. It provides fast, scalable, reliable, and secure connectivity within and between land, sea, air, cyber, and space based systems. Based on the open Object Management Group® (OMG®) Data Distribution Service (DDS™) standard, Connext advances the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) and accelerates systems development by rapidly integrating new and legacy communication assets and can form the connectivity framework for multiple secure networks with minimum investment and rework. Connext prioritizes interoperability as a primary business attribute, which promotes innovation and competition for Defense systems. The data-centric architecture of DDS naturally enables the efficient delivery of secure data-in-motion information from multiple security and operational sources. This multi-supplier and multidomain interoperability increases cross-service collaborative efforts and reduces the total lifecycle costs and total cost of operations of networked platforms, making Connext ideal for MDO and JADC2 deployments.
• Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) systems
Connext is proven in a wide range of application segments. In defense systems, Connext is deployed in:
• Modeling, Simulation, and Training (MS&T) systems using HLA, DIS, and TENA standards, and Unity® and Epic Games® Unreal Engine® gaming engines
• Naval surface vessels and systems
• Special Operations Forces (SOF) training and deployment environments
• Military Networks with Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) and Pan-Domain Capability (PDC) requirements • Military Ground Vehicles based upon the Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA) and NATO GVA standards (based on DDS)
• Military Avionics with Future Airborne Capability Environment (FACE™) and/or DO-178C certification requirements
• Autonomous undersea robotics and Unmanned
• Integrated Air & Missile Defense (IAMD) systems
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RTI Connext® The Standard in Mission-Critical Connectivity
As the leading DDS solution, Connext provides the proven and most productive environment for developing DDS compliant systems.
rti.com/a+d
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When you supply some of the world’s most demanding markets, you need to be on top of your game. Gould Alloys is a leader in the stockholding and distribution of high integrity ferrous and non-ferrous metals. We carry a comprehensive range of stock in both aerospace and commercial specifications/alloys including: l Alloy Steels
We offer: l A wide range of processing options
including radiused, chamfered, turned, bored/hollowed
l Stainless Steel
l Cutting to weight or length options
l Aluminium
l Sawing facilities for bar and plate
l Nickel Alloys
l Machine Shop (including CNC
lathes, milling machines, turning centre)
l Titanium l Phosphor Bronze
l Water jet cutting
Market sectors: Aerospace & Defence
Automotive
Oil & Gas
Power Generation
Marine
Processing Plant
Gould Alloys Ltd T: +44 (0)1246 263300 E: sales@gouldalloys.co.uk www. gouldalloys.co.uk www.militarysystems-tech.com
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HIGH PERFORMANCE INDUSTRIAL PAINTS AND COATINGS Based in the UK, with a global reach, Trimite has been dedicated to manufacturing superior coatings for over 80 years, catering to a multitude of industries and sectors such as Defence, Aerospace, Plastics, Engines, Rail, and General Industrial.
the contract to supply a Weilburger coating system for the Boxer MIV, which will run over the next 5-7 years.
Our profound commitment to excellence and pioneering spirit has established us as a reliable collaborator and top-tier manufacturer in many sectors and markets, including the Defence sector.
DEF STAN 80-225
Your Confidence in our Compliance We recognise the significance of adhering to and complying with the various Defence Standards worldwide, as they serve as a crucial benchmark for equipment design and manufacturing for any equipment manufacturer seeking approval from the UK Ministry of Defence and other organisations in the Defence sector.
Trimite Defence Products are tested and approved to the strict Military Specifications and rigorous testing standards of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory in Porton Down. DEF STAN 80-225 is a UK MOD quality control standard for the paint systems used for military vehicles and ground equipment. The scope also includes chemical (nerve) agent resistance and InfaRed Resistance (IRR) camouflage which applies to most colours supplied as near-matt finishes.
Trimite’s CARC products have been specified on some of Europe’s most significant build projects, such as the Mastiff, Ridgeback, Supacat Jackal and Warthog armoured vehicles. We have also contributed to many Urgent Operation Requirements (UOR). In addition to our own Trimite formulated brand, we are close allies and strategic partners with Weilburger Coatings; recently securing
Important Note: DEF STAN 80-225 specification amalgamates and replaces UK MOD specifications DEF STAN 80-206, DEF STAN 80207, DEF STAN 80-208 and DEF STAN 80-209. DEF STAN 80-225 is the British paint standard that sets requirements for the performance and durability of paints used in military applications. Some of the key features of this standard include the following: • Resistance to abrasion, impact, and corrosion. • Resistance to weathering, including exposure to salt spray and UV radiation. • Compatibility with other materials commonly used in military applications, such as metals and plastics. www.militarysystems-tech.com
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equipment. It offers excellent durability and resistance to chemicals and hydraulic fluids. It also provides Infra-red (IRR) and Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) when used with the recommended primer.
Colour Range & Product Reference: D00294 NATO Green, D00355 Grey Beige, D00347 Light Stone, D00357 Tan, D00386 UK Army Brown, D00389 Dk Sandstone Camouflage.
Our comprehensive range of coatings and complete DEF STAN systems include: • Primers, Intermediates, Undercoats and Finishes • Single pack, air-drying conventional • Single pack Stoving • Two-pack epoxy • Two-pack polyurethane • CARC, IRR and Non-Slip products
• Low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to minimise the environmental impact of the paint. • Adherence to strict quality control procedures to ensure consistent performance across different batches of paint. Long-term durability, even in harsh environments. • Compatibility with various colours and finishes to meet different design requirements.
In addition to the CARC coatings, we have developed a militaryapproved infrared (IR) reflecting polyester powder coating to Defence Standard 80-122, which has been used on military vehicles, storage lockers and small arms. IR camouflage coatings make painted items more difficult to detect using infrared night vision detectors.
Overall, DEF STAN 80-225 is an essential standard for anyone involved in designing or manufacturing military equipment. It ensures that the paints used can withstand rigorous military use and maintain their performance over time. Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) is a paint finish applied to military vehicles. It provides protection against chemical and biological weapons. Its unique formulation allows coated vehicles to be decontaminated in the event of exposure to chemical or biological warfare agents. As a result, equipment coated with CARC is less likely to be detected by infrared technology. Moreover, this coating is highly resistant to damage and removal by decontaminating solutions.
Trimite offers a diverse range of products and works closely with our customers to develop customised solutions for their projects. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional, world-class service, with dedicated Defence specialists and on and off-site full technical support and training, setting a standard in the industry. We are committed to the highest standards of Quality and Environmental Sustainability, including ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, and we constantly improve our operating systems to comply with the best practice in these areas.
DEF STAN 80-225 Coating System This coating system is tested and approved to DEF STAN 80-225 with low VOC content. The complete system includes a two-pack primer that meets the standard protection requirements for Type-1 Ferrous or Type-2 Non-Ferrous substrates. Our coating system is specifically designed for military ground vehicles and non-flight equipment, offering a variety of near-matte finishes in different colours. Furthermore, it provides chemical agent resistance and infra-red reflectance options, making it an ideal choice for such applications.
Trimite is proudly a member of the esteemed British Coatings Federation, which clearly indicates our unwavering dedication to excellence and expertise in the coatings industry.
www.trimite.com/defence T. 01527 599460
This advanced coating system is a modern replacement for the outdated Def Stan 80-206, 80-207, 80-208, and 80-209 systems. It also eliminates the use of toxic hexavalent chrome in the coating process, making it safer and more environmentally friendly. Type 1 and Type 2 Primer - Product Reference D00383 Finish Matt Grey We offer a two-pack primer that is equipped with anticorrosive properties and can be used with Chemical Agent Resistant Coatings (CARC). This primer is ideal for use on phosphated steel. If the steel has not been pretreated and needs an etch primer, we recommend using our HP20/SAR2. Near Matt Finish This two-pack finish with low VOC is ideal for military vehicles and ground www.militarysystems-tech.com
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R U G G E D
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3 Plug Types Connect to 1 Common Receptacle!
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Introducing TriMate® Next-Gen Circulars TriMate is offered in 3 different forms to support different applications: Threaded, Push/Pull, & Break Away. To reduce manufacturing complexity, all 3 plug styles mate with the same receptacle. AirBorn offers both the connectors and pre-tested cable assemblies designed to your unique speci昀cations. TriMate’s performance meets or exceeds legacy MIL-DTL-38999 connectors yet they are manufactured in a smaller, lighter, and easier-to-install connector package.
a i r b o r n . c o m www.militarysystems-tech.com
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Oxley Wins Contract on the British Army’s Challenger 3 Main Battle Tank Oxley Group has secured its position as leading the global market in vehicle lighting following the award of the contract for LED lighting for the British Army’s upgraded Challenger 3 Main Battle Tank (MBT).
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The contract, awarded by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL), is worth £1.39M.
A total of 148 Challenger 2 Main Battle Tanks will be upgraded by RBSL. The programme will make significant enhancements to the vehicle and provide the British Army with a world-class capability, made in the UK. The upgraded vehicle, to be called Challenger 3, will be a network-enabled, digital Main Battle Tank with state-of-the-art lethality, upgraded survivability, plus world-class surveillance and target acquisition capabilities.
Oxley Group will be providing internal cabin lighting, breach lighting and task lighting for the programme, with manufacturing commencing in 2025. This contract follows Oxley’s recent success in securing the contract for the LED lighting on the UK MOD’s Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV) programme, ensuring commonality for the internal lighting across both platforms.
Under this latest contract award, the tanks will be equipped with the ’best in class’ LED lighting. Oxley lighting solutions offer high-build quality and high performance, as well as meeting the most stringent EMC and power standards. Oxley has many decades’ experience in manufacturing LED lighting with excellent optical performance and advanced technical characteristics, specifically designed for military vehicle applications.
Full design and manufacture of the lighting will be undertaken at the Oxley Ulverston site in Cumbria. The SME employs a skilled team of 150 engineers, production technicians and support staff at the site. Securing this contract will support further growth and protect key manufacturing skills in the UK, including the 14 apprentices currently receiving training within the organisation.
Darren Cavan, Oxley Group CEO said: “We’re delighted to be awarded this contract, this builds on the success we have achieved on the MIV Boxer vehicle and further cements our world leading position in the provision of highperformance lighting for military vehicles. This contract gives us long term stability, protecting jobs and enabling us to further invest in technology and process improvements. We look forward to working in partnership with the RSBL team as this programme develops.” Colin McClean, Managing Director of RBSL added: “This contract is the latest in a series of UK supplier contracts awarded by RBSL for Challenger 3, ensuring the programme benefits from the best of British engineering and manufacturing whilst also sustaining valuable skills across the country. “We are very pleased to welcome Oxley Group to the Challenger team and we look forward to working with them as the programme progresses.”
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Ruggedize micro-miniature interconnect solu琀ons for high reliability applica琀ons.
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W AT E R
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COMMAND
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Advancements in Military IoT Applications: A Comprehensive Overview
The Internet of Things (IoT) has ushered in a new era across various sectors, with the defense industry being no exception.
situational awareness, whether they are on a base, in transit, or deployed on the battlefield. While the precise size of the Internet of Military Things (IoMT) market is challenging to estimate due to the sensitivity of many devices and applications, it can be contextualized within the broader global IoT market.
Military applications and devices powered by IoT technologies are on the rise, transforming the way defense forces operate. In this article, we will explore the expanding landscape of military IoT, shedding light on how it is enabling defense forces worldwide to become more intelligent and responsive while effectively addressing physical and cyber threats.
The IoMT market encompasses various elements, including wearables, hearables, electro-optical/infrared systems, and command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems and infrastructure. According to a 2022 GlobalData research paper titled "Internet of Military Things," the market's value was approximately $439 billion in 2019, rose to $486 billion in 2020, and is projected to reach $807 billion by 2025, demonstrating a compound annual growth rate of 11% over this period.
Military organizations are increasingly leveraging IoT systems and equipment to enhance operational efficiency and security. The ability to remotely manage logistics, monitor personnel, and track assets worldwide provides commanders with unparalleled real-time
Both the Internet of Military Things (IoMT) and the Internet of Battlefield Things (IoBT) rely on edge computing architecture to facilitate rapid data communication. They harness biometrics, environmental sensors, and other connected devices to empower military personnel to operate more effectively in various scenarios, particularly in urban warfare and future conflicts where technology and artificial intelligence are expected to play a pivotal role. Here are some notable applications of IoMT and IoBT:
1. Advanced Battlefield Awareness: - Unmanned aerial drones equipped with cameras and sensors enable real-time data collection on the battlefield. This data includes live images, terrain analysis, and enemy positions, empowering military officers to make informed decisions promptly.
hybrid circulars
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In this dynamic landscape of military IoT, specialized connectors play a crucial role in ensuring seamless connectivity and data transmission. These connectors are designed to meet the unique requirements of military applications, offering reliability, ruggedness, and compatibility with IoT devices. They enable the secure and efficient transfer of power and digital signals while ensuring data integrity and compliance with stringent quality standards.
2. Perimeter Security of Military Installations: - IoT sensors, both active and passive, collect biometric data like fingerprints and iris scans to identify individuals and detect potential threats, even among civilians attempting unauthorized access.
3. Soldier Health Monitoring: - IoMT is used to monitor soldiers' health by tracking behavioral traits through speech pattern analysis and physical metrics, such as pulse rate, body temperature, and thermal distribution.
The advent of IoT technologies has significantly enhanced defense capabilities across the globe. Military IoT applications like IoMT and IoBT have ushered in a new era of intelligence, offering real-time data, advanced monitoring, and innovative training solutions. As the military IoT market continues to expand, connector manufacturers remain at the forefront, providing the essential components required to support the evolving needs of the defense sector. With ongoing innovation and collaboration, the future of military technology holds immense promise, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of defense forces in an ever-changing world.
4. Real-Time Equipment and Vehicle Management: - Effective vehicle maintenance and the tracking of battlefield supplies are vital for successful military operations. Vehicle sensors collect data on location, fuel efficiency, mechanical condition, damage assessment, and other parameters, enabling timely maintenance and issue resolution.
5. Training with Augmented and Virtual Reality Environments: - Historical real-world data is used to create automated battlefield action models. Virtual training simulations are then developed, with trainees wearing VR/AR gear to immerse themselves in these simulations. Metrics like accuracy, emotional state, and movement speed are recorded and evaluated, allowing commanders to adjust training parameters in real-time. www.militarysystems-tech.com
Omnetics Connector Corporation
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Innovative Mobile Elevation Solutions
Offering a full range of standard and customized towers, masts, trailers and mobile elevation platforms Pneumatic and Mechanical / Man-portable / Lattice Towers / Pan and Tilt Positioners / Integrated Elevation Platforms www.willburt.com WILL-BURT NORTH AMERICA WORLD HEADQUARTERS 401 Collins Blvd., Orrville, OH USA 44667 Telephone: +1 330 682 7015 Mast Customer Service: +1 330 684 4000 Fax: +1 330 684 1190 Email: info@willburt.com
WILL-BURT GERMANY Fischergasse 25 D-91344 Waischenfeld Germany Telephone: +49 9202 180 Fax: +49 9202 1811 Email: info@willburt.com
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WILL-BURT UNITED KINGDOM Unit 5b, Station Approach Four Marks, Alton Hampshire, GU34 5HN, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 1403 265532 Fax: +44 (0) 1403 259072 Email: info@willburt.com
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WILL-BURT ASIA
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INTEGRATED TOWER SYSTEMS
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A WILL-BURT COMPANY
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2703 Dawson Road, Tulsa, OK 74110 Telephone: +1 800 850 8535 Fax: +1 918 749 8537 Email: programs@itstowers.com
E. sales@militarysystems-tech.com
The Will-Burt Company is the world’s premier manufacturer of mobile telescoping masts, towers, trailer systems, and pan SYSTEMS & Technology M MILITARY and tilt positioners. We offer virtually every mobile payload elevation solution and full integration services for defense, government, 昀rst responders, telecommunications, energy production and other markets. Will-Burt also offers contract manufacturing, metal fabrication, powder-coating, and rapid prototyping services. We are an international company with of昀ces and manufacturing in the USA, United Kingdom, Germany, Turkey, and Singapore. All manufacturing locations are backed by a certi昀ed ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System. Incorporated in 1918, Will-Burt is an employee-owned company. Will-Burt products are manufactured to meet the most demanding environmental requirements and are certi昀ed to MIL-STD-810 standards.
GEROH SPM
Concealed Elevation System Will-Burt’s Concealed Elevation System is a rugged and precise mobile elevation platform that provides rapid deployment of a wide variety of sensors from a concealed position in a standard 8’ pickup truck bed. The compact design provides up to 24.3 ft³ / .69 m³ for the sensor payload with the tailgate in the closed position. Available with an electro-mechanical or pneumatic elevation system, payload stability is assured with section keys and keyways that minimize rotational movement. Designed and Manufactured in the USA by The Will-Burt Company, the Concealed Elevation System will optimize the performance of sensors resulting in mission success.
The GEROH SPM mast, the strongest and most accurate mobile mast, is now available in a compact, low-pro昀le design. This low-nested mast allows a payload to be stored inside the vehicle to protect the valuable sensor.
All Will-Burt products sold for Defence are MIL-STD 810 certi昀ed by a third-party. www.militarysystems-tech.com
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The 2023 Procurement Act and Changes it Might (or Ought To) Force This article is in two parts the first three policy elements and then some “first thought” comments on the future of procurement, especially in defence, as they may be changed by the Procurement Act of October 2023.
experienced and technically capable. There seems to be an arguable case that there needs to be a deeper technical education of the generalist civil service similar to the French and Belgian, and other European countries, specialist civil service education (Les X as they used to be called). Perhaps non-STEM graduates of Russel Group universities could do a year at CranfieldShrivenham. There are undoubtedly issues with Les X but things do get done. Thirdly there needs to be an agreement that minsters once appointed should remain in place for at least half of a parliamentary term. Provided they do their job and do not do anything (to be defined) naughty they should be allowed to get on and do the job the electorate asked them to do, ill health and resignations excepted. If the Prime Minister is unhappy with their performance, it is a reflection on the Prime Minister’s judgement. The House of Commons Defence Committee drew attention to this issue, although not with as radical a solution as this, in their recent report “It is broke – and it’s time to fix it”.
They have been distilled from informal comments raised and gathered within the specialist defence community at events in November and December 2023. Many of the comments are as much about culture as process but there are enough of the latter to chew on. First to policy. This is not about policy as applied to one or other of the UK political parties but across defence. There seems to industry to be a crying need for the parties to jointly agree to an irredeemable basic minimum of defence capability programmes and commitment to long term defence. Other countries e.g. Denmark have done this, others are following. Mind you in Denmark it took a radical approach by a politician from outside the traditional parties to get the idea moving. It allows the parties to then express what their priorities actually are giving the electorate a clear view of where each stands on the issues. Given a willingness to co-operate it would allow long term programmes to be agreed and removed from typically yaboo British politics. Industry will get a clear sight of at least some of the future and can invest accordingly, local prosperity becomes embedded in defence and equipment gets into front line defence earlier. It will be cheaper too because delay always costs money and lives.
And so to the impact of the October 2023 Procurement Act. There are two elements of this that need to be addressed: cultural and operational, or legal and procedural. Leave aside the process for a moment and look at the culture which follows on from the points raised in the first section and the Defence Committee report. Between them they argue for deep changes in procurement culture. The first is the speed with which decisions are taken, plans are made and carried out. Delay costs money. It also costs lives as Iraq, Afghanistan and COVID have so tragically illustrated. It is not just the procedure which causes delay, it is the culture behind them. If the procedure allows people not to get on with things they won’t. The MoD was rightly criticised for not having the right equipment in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, the less than speedy decision-making process across the whole of government, the interminable delaying mechanisms imposed by the Treasury and internally within the ministries and their procurement processes simply prevented the money being spent and the equipment being procured and brought into service before the crisis. No amount of enquiries in the glare of publicity will get to the heart of the issue which is that there is a risk averse culture which permeates every area of the decision making apparatus. In defence procurement it starts with the CADMID cycle which is essentially linear and all the supporting and delaying processes. People don’t set out to do a bad job but if the regulatory framework allows them not to make a positive decision or offer positive advice and then be held to account for it, they won’t. People must be held publicly accountable for negative advice and decisions and their reasoning. The advice and decision chain must be open to scrutiny without individuals being protected by anonymity. This is a major culture shift. There is an attempt to get to this in the Act, but it is far from clear and far from encompassing. What needs to happen is the internal efforts, such as that launched by the Head of DE&S to make the process work, need to major on this removal of anonymity and lack of alacrity. From start to finish there should be few projects where the time from concept to contract should take more than six to
A second issue is the role of the civil service, the training, order and structure of it and its role. There is a wonderful support structure of scientific advisers across the civil service and places like Cranfield University-Shrivenham provide excellent technical courses and environments to learn about, understand and make valuable contributions to technical and philosophical discussions across the whole of defence but especially the specialist subjects. For industry what seems to be missing is this excellent advice does not get considered when policy is implemented. As one person with a lot of experience put it the average classicist does not know radiation from plague and because it can’t be debated is not certain what scientific or factual advice is. The point is that decisions should not have to be debated in groups like SAGE during a crisis but before it, by people with technical knowledge who provide advice to ministers. The roles were admirably defined by Margaret Thatcher “Adviser advise, and Minister decide” and the process beautifully summarised by Winston Churchill “Pray let me have on one sheet of paper the pros and cons as to where and when the invasion of Europe should take place”. This presupposes people who write and then read the brief must be both www.militarysystems-tech.com
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nine months. A former boss of mine once said a month for every nought in the total!
will it occur? What will the outcome be? Mathematical modelling and policy professionals will give you the answer. The very professional people in uniform or those close to them will inform you that the answers are bovine waste matter. The answer is that it’s always a “come as you are party”. Waterloo was but if people had not realised, it is happening now. If you don’t have the party clothes and the transport you are not going to the party. You have to prepare, have the money to prepare and the will to do it quickly because you never know when or where the next party will be, and you are going to need more party clothes. You have to establish priorities but the politically active (Advisers and Politicians) always like to follow the sexy subject. Compare CBRN with financial cybercrime. Cybercrime’s a criminal activity the province of the police and will dent people’s bank balances. A pandemic has effectively bankrupted the UK, even a small CB or R/N attack will probably do the same. Got your party clothes? Possibly time to change your tailor or clothes designer. To argue at the strategic level, unless you invest and deliver you will fail to protect your homeland and curtail international ambitions because the attack will be full of unknown unknowns. This requires a huge cultural change to match the ambition of the new act. Delay will always cost, not just money, but lives, reputations and legacies.
This then leads to delivery time. The Act calls for clear cut process with clear cut eligibility rules and determination to enshrine the process, a key element of which is pre procurement market contact and assessment. We simply do not have sufficient interaction between government and industry to look at the art of the possible. That same boss used to demand that his requirement writers were out with industry for the vast majority of the time, finding out what was being researched, developed and produced and available so they had a good handle on what was available off the shelf, what was coming down the track and the performance/cost options. Only with this knowledge can realistic assessments be made about the viability and cost of a project. Mind you we were not fettered by the dead hand of the commercial branch. There has to be a better way to engage in commercial discussions about capability requirements and equipment options than having to have members of the commercial team at each and every meeting. Other countries get around this dead weight millstone by making sure all involved have basic training in “commercial knowledge” and trusting them to raise a flag and get more advice if they feel out of their depth. The commercial dog is only let out of the kennel when there is a bone to chew. Having said this, we are being told there will be more interaction between MOD and industry. We have been told before that this culture will change leading to more interaction. Will this be another false dawn?
Speaking to people from DE&S at recent events their beef is that they take the bullets that are fired at the system when in fact the real delay is the system outside DE&S. There needs to be an even bigger cultural shift here to meet the changes the spirit of the act demands and deal in, and with, the modern information and biological ages. New boxes need new thought to get out of them. There needs to be root and branch reform of the surrounding culture in the Treasury and ministries if the Act’s objectives are to be met. A good start would be the CADMID cycle and the associated processes and instead of doing things linearly working in parallel. In particular taking heed of the scientific/ technical voice more often, earlier and more quickly.
Simultaneously there has to be realism, pragmatism and honesty on the other side of the fence too. Industry must be legal, honest, decent and truthful with the information it provides. Pious hope must be left at the door of the meeting room. By all means discuss the art of the possible but not the magical. Share your visions but add the reality of time and money. Industry too must live up to its obligations and deliver on time, to cost and on performance. The new act opens the door to this by requiring three KPIs and having a mechanism to disqualify competitors from a, or even all, competitions for a number of reasons including for poor performance. This seems a reasonable way to keep people on the straight and narrow. Speak quietly but carry a big stick.
Three further things the Act mandates are industry engagement before going through the procurement process, single source procurement in certain situations and prompt payment of suppliers especially SMEs. This last element is especially important because it is where the innovation and deftness of development and delivery are provided to deal with the new ages.
Much is made of the light touch approach. This is welcome. However the simplest way to do this is to go down the promised way of standard contracts. The Dutch have been doing it for centuries with the ARIV. Obviously, it might need modification to suit circumstances but that is an issue for negotiation and joint common sense. The most important thing is that all parties must remember that the aim is to get the right equipment into the hands of the right people on time, not just for the contract but for the oncoming crisis/conflict. There is always one coming. You just never know where or when!
In short, the new act is welcome but needs looking at with industry to see how it will operate. It must be read with the Defence Committee report alongside it and it needs a change of culture to be as effective as it should be.
www.lutra-associates.com
When will the emergency come? What is the probability of an incident? Where www.militarysystems-tech.com
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NO THREAT LEFT UNSEEN Radiation Sources emit Alpha (α), Beta (β), Gamma (γ) radiation and Neutron particles.
Alpha Beta Probe & D5 RIID
All the spectral data the user and the incident commander needs is clearly displayed on a single, portable device.
Monitor Alpha and Beta contamination anywhere, for however long is needed The small form factor and compact design of Kromek’s Alpha Beta Probe allows scanning in almost any location for any amount of contamination. The ergonomic and light weight design of the Probe makes longer scanning and contamination reconnaissance missions possible, and more comfortable. A standoff bracket built into the design ensures the detector itself does not become contaminated by the source.
Accurately identifying all radioisotopes present in a source or mixture at the scene of a radiological or nuclear Ultimate mission versatility incident is crucial to taking immediate, As soon as the Alpha Beta Probe is plugged in, the D5 RIID’s field-proven capability is enhanced. D5 RIID’s Search Mode correct context-specific action. facilitates rapid, reliably informed, on the ground action in
response to an identified source or mixture, displaying real-time counts per second data on-screen. Aiding secondary adjudications and reconnaissance efforts, Timer Mode allows the user to view how many Alpha and Beta counts were recorded in a set time period. Levels of radiation against the
The capabilities of Kromek’s radiological detection portfolio continue to expand, with the latest introduction of a durable and lightweight Alpha Beta Probe, compatible with the D5 RIID: the world’s most sensitive and portable RIID. www.militarysystems-tech.com
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sales@kromek.com www.kromek.com
significantly enhance ease of use and offer users significant operational flexibility to tailor the D5 RIID to the specific needs of the task at hand. Outstanding survey capability is achievable with the ability to enable or disable NORM suppression, and appropriate responses to incidents given additional clarity with the possibility to set low, medium and high dose rate thresholds levels. Additional layers of security are now available when necessary for a mission, allowing certain settings to be customset as routine or restricted using PIN-protection.
custom-set threshold can be quickly and easily assessed by the user using the handy visual bar.
Reliable alarms and spectral data in any situation The D5 RIID’s medium resolution, exceptional sensitivity and low false alarm rate allows a definitive confirmation of all radioisotopes present in a mixed, shielded or heavily masked source. No time is wasted in locating a source; localisation mode pinpoints its exact location with real-time spectral data delivered on screen to the user. In high-risk environments, user safety is prioritised via Remote mode, where agnostic isotopic data from a suspect package or defined area collected from the D5 RIID is delivered to a connected device, e.g., a mobile phone, at a distance. With its lightweight design, the D5 RIID is an essential yet unnoticeable addition to everyday equipment.
Situational awareness on the ground and beyond Completing the package of total radiological detection is networkability. The D5 RIID and other Kromek detectors can seamlessly integrate into existing alert networks alongside other specialised detectors. Integrating the data from all detectors to a central hub yields a comprehensive view of the entire situation, before, during and after CBRN events. This widens situational awareness, supports coordination between regional, national or international authorities in implementing rapid action, and enhances the maneuverability of armed forces and other response teams.
Alongside the introduction of the Alpha Beta Probe, the D5 RIID has additional functionalities, expanding its operational utility and further strengthening its position at the forefront of global radiation detection capability. Demonstrating durability and reliability in the most challenging environments, the upgraded D5 RIID successfully met British and US DEF-STAN and MIL-STD requirements. Other upgrades www.militarysystems-tech.com
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CONNECTING PEI-Genesis is a leader in the design of custom interconnect solutions with a best in class product portfolio that supports the harsh environments of the aviation, energy, military, industrial, rail, and medical sectors worldwide. With sales offices throughout North America, EMEA, and APAC, PEI has a robust distribution network. In addition, PEI-Genesis has years of strong, established relationships with industry leading companies & corporations within this network.
GLOBALLY
As a designer and manufacturer in the ever-growing electrical interconnect industry, partnering with PEI-Genesis means everlasting growth potential and an esteemed service level to customers that is unmatched in the industry.
LET’S CONNECT: +44 (0) 23 8062 1260
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Electrical connector considerations in military applications Key design considerations for electrical connector solutions used in the harsh environments often found in the military sector
Furthermore, it is common for military connectors to be in services for two to three decades, amplifying any potential damage or loss of performance over time. This means that connectors intended for use in military applications must be designed with performance and reliability in mind to ensure operational success.
In the world of electrical connectors, there is an abundance of options to choose from, which can make identifying the right choice a difficult task. This is made more difficult in mission-critical industries with specific operational challenges, such as the military sector. Here Sean Fitall, senior product manager at military electrical connector specialist PEI-Genesis, discusses the key considerations for a new generation of electrical connectors that deliver reliable performance in military applications.
Therefore, to rise to the challenge, military connectors must come equipped with key features such as high durability, easy mating and unmating, a high number of mating cycles to ensure long lifespans, superior shielding performance and high levels of ingress protection.
D38999 connectors Traditionally, D38999 connectors have been the first choice for use in military applications. First developed in the 1970s and now on its fourth generation design, this is a military-specific connector designed to ensure reliable performance. D38999 connectors are made up of a hard outer shell, a polychloroprene rubber insert with cavities to house the contacts and a backshell is required on the outer housing of every plug to provide additional shielding and durability. D38999 connectors can be supplied in aluminium, stainless steel, marine bronze or composite materials and then plated in either olive drab cadmium, green zinc cobalt, nickel or black zinc nickel, depending on customer requirements.
Electrical connectors used in military applications, such as manned ground vehicles and unmanned autonomous guided vehicles, must often tolerate extreme and harsh conditions. Typically, these include extreme temperatures both hot and cold, rapid temperature and humidity changes, persistent impact and vibration and signal interference. www.militarysystems-tech.com
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Composite options are more popular because they are lightweight and offer high performance levels in harsh environments. They are also all REACH and RoHS compliant (apart from the Olive Drab plating) and all QPL qualified for use in military applications.
finger protection in accordance with BS EN 60529 mechanical finger and deliver 360˚ screening facilitated with straight or 90˚ EMC backshell. The superior EMC performance of Rhino 38999 connectors compared to traditional connector solutions, enabling equipment to meet the requirements of military EMC specifications such as DEF STAN 59-411 and MIL-STD-461.
Now, electrical connector manufacturers have built on the features that have made the D38999 so reliable in military applications for decades with the introduction of next-generation Rhino 38999 connectors.
All of these features combine to offer reliable performance in the most challenging environments and ensure operational success, which are the key requirements of the military sector.
Rhino 38999 connectors Rhino 38999 military off-the-shelf (MOTS) connectors combine the benefits of field proven MIL-DTL-38999 series III circular connectors with low resistance RADSOK® power contacts. This makes them ideal for high power and high voltage applications in harsh environments.
PEI-Genesis supplies Amphenol Rhino connectors and can support customers in the military sector who need guidance on connector specification for a given application. To find out more about PEI-Genesis’ Mil-Spec and rugged military connectors, visit www.peigenesis.com/en/military/military-connectors.html or contact its UK team on +44 (0) 23 8062 1260.
These connectors encompass many key features required in the military sector, such as shock and vibration in accordance with DEF-STAN 00-35 Iss 4 Ch2 01, a Black Zinc Nickel plating that is compliant with restriction of hazardous substances (RoHS) requirements and provides over 500 hours of salt spray endurance and IP68 mated and unmated.
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Rhino 38999 MOTS connectors feature a hyperbolic contact design that results in low contact resistance and high contact endurance, while delivering a high current carrying capacity of up to 1,000 A. Furthermore, Rhino 38999 connectors offer IP2X www.militarysystems-tech.com
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We’ve been manufacturing and supplying flight cases, storage and transport solutions for over 40 years, and we’re proud to have worked with some of the biggest names in the industry as their trusted case supplier.
WELCOMING IN OUR NEWEST ADDITION... Our huge 4.5m Rotomoulding oven is now in full operation. We are already working on new and existing OEM work for our customers. This monster machine, fitted with all the features, will be an excellent addition to our high-tech rototational moulding department. We excel in rotational moulding assembly and pride ourselves on our quality customer service. Trifibre is proud to be an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) lead by experts in their field.
4.5M OVEN HIGH CAPACITY LOAD MULTIPLE COOLING OPTIONS
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EXHIBITION CASES : info@tri昀bre.co.uk www.militarysystems-tech.com
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UK’S LEADING
CASING MANUFACTURER & SUPPLIER
Trifibre is the UK’s leading case manufacturer and supplier with a vast array of products offered on a global scale. Established in 1981, the company has over 40 years of experience. During this time, we have developed and progressed into a highly respected and innovative casing solution provider that caters to many industry sectors, including: Aerospace, Medical, Defence, Scientific, Music, and more... Based in the heart of England, our 70,000 sq ft premises has the facility to produce large order volumes using a wide range of manufacturing techniques and the latest design software packages.Trifibre is able to produce the highest quality products consistently with short lead times at very competitive prices.
We’ve been manufacturing and supplying 昀ight cases, storage and transport solutions for over 40 years, and we are proud to have worked with some of the biggest names in the industry as their trusted case supplier.
“ We are proud of all the work we do, be it large corporate supply, or a simple box for personal storage. Our decades of experience means we’re best at what we do. “
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TSS INTERNATIONAL LC300 Armour Mobility products tested and in service • Runlat: FINABEL100km- test Heavy Duty LC300
TSS International’s Heavy Duty Wheel Assembly for armoured conversions of the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 has been successfully road-tested for runflat performance with the Rodgard BPX STD runflat and Maxxis JRZ BRAVO 275/70R18 128Q 12PR tyre.
wheel successfully completed • Brake System: EU road-worthiness approval for
The testing procedure was according to the FINABEL standard and consisted of driving with deflated tyre at the following speeds/distances:
armoured LC300s • Suspension Systems: More than 150 sets LC300 already in service
• 3km @ 90km/h • 22km @ 50km/h • 75km @ 25km/h
• Self-sealing fuel tanks: serial production in full swing
The runflat test was conducted under a 2.000kg load to simulate the wheel load of an armoured vehicle. This confirms that TSS Heavy Duty Wheel Runflat Assemblies are suited to the latest generation of Civilian Armoured Vehicles (CAV) in the highest
• SKYDEX Blast mitigation mats: Multiple customers achieve blast-certification after integrating SKYDEX into armour package
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protection classes. TSS customers convert Toyota Land Cruiser 300s up to protection level VPAM VR9, to protect end-users doing valuable work in hostile environments for NGO’s, Embassies, Observation Missions and Special Police Operations all over the world. Thousands of CAVs have been equipped with TSS Heavy Duty Wheels® with runflat capability. To cope with the added weight of the armoured protection package, TSS also supplies MOV’IT brake systems for the Toyota Land Cruiser 300. This specially designed brake system is tailored for the increased weight and changed weight distribution of a CAV and has received road-worthiness approval for LC300s with a GVW of up to 6.300kgs. Endurance tests in a laboratory have also confirmed the durability of the brake discs for vehicles of that weight with a maximum speed of 160km/h. Exclusive: integrated, plug-and-play electronic parking brake! The collaboration between TSS International and JRZ Suspension Engineering was made official in 2022 with TSS being appointed as official distributor of JRZ suspension systems. Since then, TSS has already supplied more than 300 vehicles (of which many Land Cruisers 300) being equipped with this innovative, Dutchdesigned suspension system.
this innovative floor protection and now multiple vehicle builders among TSS’ customers have certified their blast protection packages with the addition of SKYDEX High Threat, validated with the new Biofidelic test dummy.
To limit some of the added weight to Civilian Armoured Vehicles, TSS International offers a self-sealing coating for fuel tanks. The coating, which is also automotive-standard flame retardant, is a lightweight solution for already heavy, discreetly armoured vehicles. TSS International has supplied thousands of self-sealing fuel tanks for the LC300s predecessor LC200, as well as many other platforms, including the MB G-Class, Nissan Patrol, various types of CIT trucks and armoured limousines.
Adding to the safety inside the vehicle, TSS supplies B&G Intercoms, allowing for safe and secure communication with the direct surroundings of the vehicle. An easy to use push-to-talk and -listen intercom with integrated sirens and optional discrete LED emergency lights for in the vehicle’s grill. TSS is proud to be the one-stop-shop for mobility components for armoured vehicle builders. Turn to TSS International BV for all your Armour Mobility® needs: Heavy Duty Runflat Wheels, Brake Upgrades, Suspension Systems, Self-Sealing Fuel Tanks, Blast Mitigation Mats and Vehicle Intercoms.
Another lightweight and effective protection solution for (Civilian) Armoured Vehicles is the application of SKYDEX blast mats. These made to measure panels are placed under the feet of the vehicle occupants and protect passengers and driver against the kinetic energy of an under vehicle IED detonation. The mats compress to absorb and reduce the immense upward force being exerted on the feet and lower legs, greatly reducing injury chances. More than 125.000 US Army vehicles have already been equipped with
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CASE STUDY E.S.P. (ENHANCED SPATIAL POSITIONING)
THE VOICES IN MY HEAD: SPATIAL AUDIO A GAME CHANGER IN TACTICAL COMMUNICATION OTTO'S SPATIAL POSITIONING TECHNOLOGY PROVIDES CLARITY AMID THE CHAOS OF BATTLE By Will Martin, contributing editor Mo Nazir is several years removed from his multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. But combat has a way of burning memories into the forefront of a soldier’s mind. “What’s crazy is I can still feel my way through a lot of those memories. It’s still fresh,” said Nazir, an Army veteran who led combat operations as an NCO in the Airborne and Military Police communities. “It’s hard to explain the stress involved in trying to control a battlespace. You’re not only scanning your sector or directing rounds down range, but you’re receiving communication from several sources, all at once,” Nazir said. “Your headset becomes this circus of voices, all tripping over each other to gain your attention.”
Your headset becomes this circus of voices, all tripping over each other to gain your attention. –Mo Nazir, Army veteran, Airborne and Military Police NCO
Audiologists have a term for the experience Nazir describes: cognitive overload. As the streams of voices increase, one’s ability to discern and act on that information plummets. Coupled with the other stressors of battle, it can prove maddening. “Frankly, we’re just not built for it,” Nazir said. “But lives are at stake. Your soldiers
and mission are the priority, so you try and figure it out.”
FROM CHAOS TO COCKTAILS Traditional tactical headsets rely on binaural communication, meaning the listener hears incoming voices simultaneously in both ears. Combat controllers, then, are regularly exposed to an overlapping chorus of information, with no cues to help segregate the voices. Amid the stress of combat, decisionmaking can border on the impossible. “In a normal environment, humans use outside prompts to separate and discern the importance of competing voices,” said Dan Stanek, Vice President & General Manager of the Communications business unit at OTTO Engineering, a leading manufacturer of tactical audio technology. “Most of us have heard of
the ‘cocktail party effect,’ the idea being that even in a multi-talker environment, like a cocktail party, we can zero in on important information because we’re able to assign voices to people based on where they’re located. With the E.S.P., we’re translating that effect to the battlefield.” OTTO’s Enhanced Spatial Positioning Push-to-Talk, or E.S.P. PTT, is a game changer in tactical communication. Rather than hearing incoming voices as overlapping streams in both ears, each voice is heard in a distinct location around the user’s head. An Air Force A-10 pilot, for instance, might be assigned to the back right quadrant, while several forward operators on the ground are assigned to their own distinct quadrants. In essence, each voice has its own lane. “The user quickly learns to recognize the source of information based on its
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major radio platforms and vehicle and airborne intercoms, making for seamless integration into joint force battlespaces, where interoperability is essential.
“Situational awareness is everything to a combat controller. When you remove the risk of audio overload, the operator can laser focus on the information that matters most. Its impact on swift, effective decision-making is remarkable.”
A TACTICAL EDGE: In high-stress environments overlapping audio traffic competes in the operator's ear, leading to auditory overload and retention loss. Spatial audio creates separation and provides the mental clarity to focus on mission objectives.
location in their headset, even if there are multiple streams pouring in,” said Stanek. “It’s like listening in 3D.” By untangling and segregating voices within the headset of the listener, OTTO’s E.S.P. PTT dramatically reduces cognitive load compared to traditional communication devices. Operators experience significant improvements in information retention and reduction in listener fatigue. “Researchers call it stream segregation, but what we’re really talking about is gaining clarity amid the chaos of battle,” said Stanek. “Situational awareness is everything to a combat controller. When you remove the risk of audio overload, the operator can laser focus on the information that matters most. Its impact on swift, effective decision-making is remarkable.”
“At the end of the day, we want to empower operators—whatever their environment—to clearly hear critical messages and quickly make decisions that can save lives and accomplish the mission,” said Stanek. “We’re convinced spatial audio technology is a key that unlocks that goal.”
LEADERS IN SPATIAL AUDIO TECHNOLOGY Several recent studies confirm that spatial audio positioning addresses several of the challenges posed by dynamic tactical environments. 3D listening, researchers have learned, ensures improved recognition and discernment. Its application to the battlefield—and beyond—is apparent. “This is the first and only 3D spatial audio device designed specifically for dismounted operators in tactical environments,” said Stanek. “But really, the E.S.P. PTT represents OTTO’s broader commitment to research and engineering centered on spatial audio technology. We believe 3D audio represents a seismic shift in the future of communication.” Using detachable cables for each radio type, the E.S.P. PTT is compatible with
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ENHANCED SPATIAL POSITIONING PUSH-TO-TALK The E.S.P. push-to-talk switch with spatial audio processing separates up to four different audio streams into distinct locations so you can clearly hear critical messages. Say goodbye to audio chaos and hello to mental clarity! HEADSET
ELIMINATE AUDITORY OVERLOAD. ENHANCE OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY. ENSURE MISSION SUCCESS. PTT 1
PTT 4
PTT 2
MULTI-FUNCTION
PTT 3
RADIO COMM 3/4
RADIO COMM 1/2
SCAN TO EXPERIENCE TACTICAL SPATIAL AUDIO ▶ INNOVATING FOR THE WARFIGHTER www.otto-comm.com
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Immersive Training Simulators, Scenarios and Tools
V-XR® V-XR • • • • •
Extended reality headset Pass-through system adds to real world Uses hand gestures, not controllers Volumetric capture characters (not CGI) 3 modes: Educate, Experience, and Engage
V-Marksmanship • • • • •
Ballistics calculator (.02 milliradian accuracy) Up to 2000m range Up to 5 screens with multiple lanes per screen Wide range of environmental conditions Small arms and crew served weapons
VirTra’s Mission is to save lives by developing, manufacturing and supporting the most powerful and immersive training simulators, scenarios and accessories worldwide. The unparalleled quality of our products is matched by our best-in-class customer experience and support. www.VirTra.com | +1.800.455.8746 73
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MILITARY SYSTEMS & Technology The Defence Suppliers Directory If you are interested in submitting any Press, Editorials, Adverts or Images for our next magazine, please send all content to: guy@militarysystems-tech.com
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