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05 Dec 24. Shield AI, the defense technology company building autonomy for the world, has announced it is expanding its work with Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: PLTR), a leading provider of AI systems, to develop and deliver large-scale command and control of autonomous uncrewed systems, including operations in GPS- and communications-denied environments. With Warp Speed, Palantir’s manufacturing OS for American re-industrialization, Shield AI is doubling down on its commitment to delivering scalable, AI-powered solutions to protect service members and civilians.
By leveraging Shield AI’s advanced Hivemind software development kit, along with Palantir’s suite of powerful software solutions—including enterprise resource planning, geospatial intelligence, and operational decision-making tools—the partnership combines the strengths of both companies to address the most critical defense challenges.
“Shield AI and Palantir have both built technology products proven in the most demanding environments,” said Brandon Tseng, Shield AI’s President, Co-founder, and former Navy SEAL. “Our partnership is about bringing together Palantir’s software dominance and Shield AI’s expertise in autonomy to deliver the best possible outcomes for customers. It’s exciting to scale up what we’ve been working on together in this next chapter of our partnership.”
This announcement builds on work Shield AI and Palantir showcased at the Association of the U.S. Army’s (AUSA) Annual Meeting and Expo in October, where the companies demonstrated the integration of Shield AI’s Hivemind with Palantir’s Gaia. This integration created a unified command-and-control system for autonomous systems. Hivemind’s proven autonomy capabilities—demonstrated on platforms like the V-BAT, F-16, MQM-178 Firejet, and Nova quadcopter—now seamlessly integrate with Gaia’s geospatial intelligence tools, enabling real-time mission execution and precision targeting.
“The American Industrial Base needs Warp Speed,” said Shyam Sankar, Palantir’s Chief Technology Officer and Executive Vice President. “Shield AI stands out in their field, having achieved mission impact and product results where others have struggled. This partnership, and Shield AI’s deploying of our newly announced manufacturing OS will enable faster and better delivery to customers, and ultimately aid in the defense of the West.” (Source: PR Newswire)
05 Dec 24. IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), a leader in the quantum computing and networking industry, today announced the delivery of IonQ Forte Enterprise to its first European Innovation Center at the uptownBasel campus in Arlesheim, Switzerland. Achieved in partnership with QuantumBasel, this major milestone marks the first datacenter-ready quantum computer IonQ has delivered that will operate outside the United States and the first quantum system for commercial use in Switzerland.
“We aligned our system build with on-site datacenter construction and IonQ’s manufacturing and production teams leveraged their decades of expertise to bring this groundbreaking system online faster than anticipated.”
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Forte Enterprise is now online servicing compute jobs while performing at a record algorithmic qubit count of #AQ36, which is significantly more powerful than the promised #AQ35. With each additional #AQ, the useful computational space for running quantum algorithms doubles. A system with #AQ36 is capable of considering more than 68 billion different possibilities simultaneously. With this milestone, IonQ once again leads the industry in delivering production-ready systems to customers.
“The successful commissioning of Forte Enterprise in Europe – on schedule and at an even higher performance level than announced previously – demonstrates IonQ’s commitment to driving global quantum adoption through technological leadership and operational excellence,” said Peter Chapman, CEO and President of IonQ. “Achieving #AQ36 is a significant leap forward, opening new possibilities for applications including logistics, finance, pharmaceuticals, chemistry and artificial intelligence.”
“Offering the state-of-the-art Forte Enterprise quantum computing platform to our ecosystem will accelerate the development of quantum applications across a range of fields,” said Damir Bogdan, CEO of QuantumBasel. “By collaborating with IonQ, we’re positioning the uptownBasel campus as a leader in quantum innovation, fostering breakthroughs that address real-world challenges.”
IonQ’s next generation commercial quantum systems such as Forte Enterprise are optimized for data center environments, sporting a rack-mounted form factor, low energy profile, and minimal environmental isolation requirements.
Building on a History of Excellence
Today’s IonQ Forte Enterprise system commissioning represents the culmination of IonQ’s engineering innovation, operational excellence, and enterprise-grade production capabilities.
“This milestone reflects the hard work and ingenuity of teams across IonQ and QuantumBasel,” said Dr. Dave Mehuys, VP of Production Engineering. “We aligned our system build with on-site datacenter construction and IonQ’s manufacturing and production teams leveraged their decades of expertise to bring this groundbreaking system online faster than anticipated.”
Pioneering a New Era of Computing
IonQ’s record-breaking achievement of #AQ36 signals the company’s dedication and success in advancing quantum performance. Forte Enterprise expands the potential for driving groundbreaking research in areas such as quantum chemistry and machine learning.
“IonQ’s ability to deliver Forte Enterprise with #AQ36 reflects our growing capabilities to execute on our mission to drive significant quantum advancements globally,” said Dr. Dean Kassmann, Senior Vice President of Engineering and Technology at IonQ. “Each step we take demonstrates our commitment to bringing quantum computing from the lab to practical, impactful, and commercial uses.”
A Quantum Leap for Europe and Beyond
IonQ’s first European Innovation Center will allow the company to service its European customers out of its QuantumBasel location and to drive research and development of next generation quantum applications in Europe.
As part of its partnership with IonQ, QuantumBasel will offer its ecosystem– including enterprises, research institutes, startups, and universities – direct access to the #AQ36 Forte Enterprise system.
With datacenters now in the Washington, D.C., Seattle, and Basel, Switzerland areas, IonQ has firmly established a global data center footprint, reinforcing its position as a leader in quantum technology.
To learn more about IonQ’s latest innovations, visit www.ionq.com.
About IonQ
IonQ, Inc. is a leader in quantum computing that delivers high-performance systems capable of solving the world’s largest and most complex commercial and research use cases. IonQ’s current generation quantum computer, IonQ Forte, is the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems, boasting 36 algorithmic qubits. The company’s innovative technology and rapid growth were recognized in Fast Company’s 2023 Next Big Things in Tech List and Deloitte’s 2023 Technology Fast 500™ List, respectively. Available through all major cloud providers, IonQ is making quantum computing more accessible and impactful than ever before. Learn more at IonQ.com.
About QuantumBasel
QuantumBasel is a competence center for quantum computing and AI and drives access to commercial quantum computing to foster innovation. QuantumBasel places particular emphasis on technological neutrality and is Switzerland’s first commercial quantum computing hub, providing access to hardware from IBM, D-Wave and IonQ. QuantumBasel’s team of quantum and data scientists trains and supports companies, conducts projects in quantum computing and AI, and collaborates closely with universities and academic institutions. Through an internationally connected ecosystem, QuantumBasel provides access to advanced know-how and technologies, enabling companies in industrial production, logistics, finance, energy, life sciences, and start-ups to achieve innovations they cannot develop independently. www.quantumbasel.com (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
04 Dec 24. Swedish Defence Material Administration Awards OSI contract for ECPINS Submarine.
- Expanding the use of ECPINS Fleetwide
- ECPINS will be deployed across all RSwN submarines and the SM Rescue ship BELOS
- The agreement includes current ECPINS versions through to ECPINS 7 and In-Service Support
- ECPINS is the only WECDIS independently type approved against NATO WECDIS STANAG 4564
- ECPINS is deployed on submarines operated by eight Nations
OSI Maritime Systems (OSI) is pleased to announce it has secured an agreement with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (Försvarets materielverk, FMV) for a flotilla license of its advanced ECPINS (Electronic Chart Precise Integrated Navigation System). The system will be deployed across all Royal Swedish Navy (RSN) submarines, including the A17 and A19 classes, with integration planned for the upcoming A26 class once it becomes operational.
The agreement includes the current edition of ECPINS through to ECPINS 7 — which will be fully compliant with NATO WECDIS STANAG 4564’s latest Edition 3. In addition, OSI will deliver multi-year In-Service Support as part of the agreement.
The Royal Swedish Navy, headquartered in Karlskrona, operates a fleet of five diesel-electric submarines: three Gotland-class (A19) vessels and two Södermanland-class (A17, formerly Västergötland-class) submarines.
OSI’s ECPINS forms the cornerstone of the submarines’ navigation system. Embedded in ECPINS are capabilities designed for navigating in harsh subsurface environments. In high-tempo tactical situations, submarines need to minimize their above-water signature, restricting the use of sensors such as GPS. Through advanced algorithmic calculations, ECPINS’ advanced Dived Navigation methodology and techniques minimize reliance on sensors, allowing the submarine to remain undetectable for longer, thereby retaining its full tactical advantage.
Globally recognized as a leader in subsurface navigation, ECPINS is deployed on submarines operated by Sweden, the UK, Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, Singapore, Indonesia, South Africa, and Brazil.
“We’re proud of this new contract award. To have ECPINS deployed fleetwide on the Royal Swedish Navy’s submarines strongly endorse OSI’s cutting-edge navigation technology. Further the waters in which Swedish submarines operate are geographically some of the harshest, that in turn requires the best in navigation.” Ken Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of OSI Maritime Systems
“Dived navigation is a demanding task. OSI has been the global leader of WECDIS dived navigation solutions since 2005. ECPINS has digitised all of the traditional dived navigation methodologies and created the most trusted suite of dived functionality available in a WECDIS application. Recognized by eight NATO and Allied navies, ECPINS has set the gold standard in overcoming these challenges.” Jim Davison, Vice President of Business Development, OSI Maritime Systems. (Source: ASD Network)
04 Dec 24. Curtiss-Wright and Sintavia Deliver First Submarine Component Utilizing an Additively Manufactured Impeller to Be Installed in a U.S. Navy Vessel. Curtiss-Wright’s EMS Division today announced that it has delivered the first submarine component with an additively manufactured (AM) impeller that will be installed in a U.S. Navy vessel.
Curtiss-Wright’s Engineered Pump Division (EPD) in Bethlehem, PA, Bechtel Plant Machinery Inc. (BPMI) in Monroeville, PA, and Sintavia, LLC in Fort Lauderdale, FL, collaborated to develop, manufacture, test, and supply the first submarine component utilizing a qualified, metal additively manufactured part. Sintavia, a leader in designing and manufacturing critical additively manufactured defense components, provided the AM impeller after a thorough qualification process. This impeller was assembled into the pump and tested at Curtiss-Wright’s facility in Bethlehem, PA.
Additive manufacturing technology offers a solution to the development of a product or component that historically has been difficult or costly to manufacture, often resulting in delays. The use of this technology is expected to provide a reliable and high-quality domestic source while also leading to shorter manufacturing lead times, increased quality, lower risk in performance, and improved delivery to further meet the needs of the U.S. Navy.
“Sintavia has proven to be an invaluable industry partner, and we are excited about the opportunity to further solidify our partnership by increasing the number of additively manufactured parts for this application and other critical naval defense components,” said David Micha, Sr. Vice President and General Manager of the EMS Division. “In addition, we are proud to be providing the first critical service equipment utilizing an additively manufactured component to the U.S. Navy’s submarine program and look forward to expanding these capabilities in the future to more efficiently serve our customer.”
“We would like to thank both Curtiss-Wright and BPMI for the opportunity to leverage Sintavia’s additive technology in the production of this critical component,” said Lindsay Lewis, Sintavia’s Corporate Vice President. “Leading-edge manufacturing processes such as AM will continue to be key differentiators in developing superior defense components in the years to come.”
Curtiss-Wright’s EPD business unit, part of Curtiss-Wright’s EMS division, and its predecessor companies have provided naval and maritime technological expertise and products since 1847. Today, EPD is a leading supplier of pumps and components that meet demanding and mission critical requirements for the world’s surface and submerged naval fleets. EPD also provides a wide range of spare and replacement parts, composite pump components, and support services for complete overhaul, upgrade, and in-field expertise. For more information, please visit www.cw-ems.com/epd. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
04 Dec 24. Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) Skunk Works and the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF) Rapid Capabilities Office (RCO) completed the first-ever live fly F-35 classified data-share with a non-U.S. Command and Control (C2) system. In this real-time demonstration, an F-35 flying from Lockheed Martin’s facility in Fort Worth, Texas, shared classified data via a Skunk Works’ Open Systems Gateway (OSG) through commercial satellite communications and into an RAF RCO lab in Farnborough, U.K., where it was ingested into the NEXUS C2 system. This achievement marks a significant step forward in multi-domain integration, enabling F-35 interoperability in real-time with a non-U.S. C2 system.
“Project DEIMOS was a hugely successful UK/US trial which clearly demonstrated the ability to take data from a live F-35 and pass this to the RAF’s NEXUS platform for exploitation. This represents a key step forward towards both a future integrated battlespace and Air Command and Control environment,” said Air Commodore Chris Melville, head of rapid capabilities office, Royal Air Force. “The RAF Rapid Capabilities Office working in partnership with both Lockheed Martin and SiXWorks, has proven how collaborative working with key industry partners can quickly and efficiently drive both innovation and future capability. We are all delighted with the results.”
“This exercise marks a breakthrough in multi-domain operations, demonstrating the F-35’s ability to share classified data via an open systems gateway with our international partners. We collaborated closely with the U.K. Ministry of Defence and industry to achieve this feat, highlighting the power of partnership in driving innovation,” said John Clark, vice president and general manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. “Collaborations like this allow us to deliver advanced capabilities quickly to meet urgent needs in an increasingly complicated global threat environment.”
Lockheed Martin Skunk Works is committed to delivering open architecture solutions that enhance multi-domain integration capabilities across allied forces.
04 Dec 24. Diamonds are forever? World-first carbon-14 diamond battery made. The world’s first carbon-14 diamond has been produced with the potential to provide power for thousands of years. Weak radio luminescence captured by a low light intensity camera from a synthetic diamond carbon film made from beta-emitting carbon-14 atoms – Image Credit: University of Bristol
Scientists and engineers from the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and the University of Bristol have successfully created the world’s first carbon-14 diamond battery.
This new type of battery has the potential to power devices for thousands of years, making it an incredibly long-lasting energy source.
The battery leverages the radioactive isotope, carbon-14, known for its use in radiocarbon dating, to produce a diamond battery.
Several game-changing applications are possible. Bio-compatible diamond batteries can be used in medical devices like ocular implants, hearing aids, and pacemakers, minimising the need for replacements and distress to patients.
Diamond batteries could also be used in extreme environments – both in space and on earth – where it is not practical to replace conventional batteries. The batteries could power active radio frequency (RF) tags where there is a need to identify and track devices either on earth or in space, such as spacecraft or payloads, for decades at a time, thus reducing costs and extending operational lifespan.
“Diamond batteries offer a safe, sustainable way to provide continuous microwatt levels of power. They are an emerging technology that use a manufactured diamond to safely encase small amounts of carbon-14,” said Sarah Clark, Director of Tritium Fuel Cycle at UKAEA.
The carbon-14 diamond battery works by using the radioactive decay of carbon-14, which has a half-life of 5,700 years, to generate low levels of power. It functions similarly to solar panels, which convert light into electricity, but instead of using light particles (photons), they capture fast-moving electrons from within the diamond structure.
Professor Tom Scott, Professor in Materials at the University of Bristol, said: “Our micropower technology can support a whole range of important applications from space technologies and security devices through to medical implants. We’re excited to be able to explore all of these possibilities, working with partners in industry and research, over the next few years.”
A team of scientists and engineers from both organisations worked together to build a plasma deposition rig, a specialised apparatus used for growing the diamond at UKAEA’s Culham Campus.
This development is the result, in part, of UKAEA’s work on fusion energy.
The expertise gained in fusion research is helping to accelerate innovation in related technologies. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
03 Dec 24. Babcock launches new International Engineering and Technology Hub in Melbourne. We have officially launched a new International Engineering and Technology Hub in Melbourne, Australia as part of our increased research and development efforts across global defence markets. The $3.5m state-of-the-art Abbotsford facility will serve as a collaborative environment for engineers and technologists working in areas such as systems engineering, secure communications, autonomy, artificial intelligence and digitally-enabled asset management. It includes provision for specialist laboratories and other security-accredited testing facilities to simulate, model and validate new technologies so they can be brought into service quickly. The hub has been designed with future defence needs in mind and is strategically located in Victoria to leverage the state’s extensive supply chain network, well-credentialled academic institutions and rich engineering talent pool. Part-funded by the Victorian Government, the facility is expected to create as many as 100 new highly skilled jobs over the next three years and will play a crucial role in our workforce development initiatives, contributing to the growth of a robust and resilient industrial base. The move to the new facility follows a period of sustained growth for our Australian business, particularly in Melbourne, where our defence workforce has grown seven-fold since 2019.
03 Dec 24. Concurrent Launches Hermod II Ethernet Switch.
Enabling real-time data traffic management in extreme environments.
Concurrent, a leader in embedded computing solutions, has unveiled Hermod II, a rugged 10 Gigabit Ethernet switch designed to meet the demands of ground vehicles in the defence and heavy industrial markets.
Engineered to withstand extreme temperatures, dirt, and wet conditions, Hermod II introduces Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) capabilities to prioritise and schedule real-time data traffic for continuity in critical operations.
Driving Innovation in Ethernet Communication
Hermod II represents a pivotal shift in Ethernet technology by addressing the industry’s transition from legacy low-bandwidth, deterministic interfaces to high-bandwidth Ethernet backbones. TSN enables Hermod II to offer the deterministic performance required for modern platforms, bridging the gap between legacy and TSN-enabled traffic for seamless integration.
“Deterministic Ethernet communications is no longer optional – it’s mission-critical. As platforms adopt Ethernet as their main communication conduit, TSN has become essential to achieve the reliability and performance required in mission-critical environments,” said Michael Harden, Vice President of Systems at Concurrent.
“Hermod II positions us at the forefront of this evolution, ensuring our customers are prepared for the future of Ethernet-enabled operations.”
Key Features of Hermod II
- Ruggedised Design – Operates reliably in extreme environmental conditions.
- TSN Support – Enables real-time traffic management through Concurrent’s TSN configurator package.
- Versatile Integration – Serves as a gateway to support legacy systems during modernisation.
A Broader Portfolio of Solutions
In addition to Hermod II, Concurrent is pleased to announce the expansion of its Plug-In-Card (PIC) portfolio, which includes the new storage PIC with secure, removable storage cannisters, and Fulla, a cost-effective 10 Gigabit Ethernet Switch PIC. These offerings enhance Concurrent’s ability to deliver modular and scalable systems tailored to customer needs.
Transitioning to a TSN Future
As TSN adoption becomes mandatory for new platforms in the coming years, Hermod II provides a critical solution for organisations navigating this transition. It enables a phased modernisation approach while ensuring compliance with future requirements.
At Concurrent we are redefining embedded computing solutions. We focus on innovation, reliability, and exceptional service and we will continue to expand our reach and offerings to ensure our clients can operate in challenging times and environments.
For more information about Hermod II and Concurrent’s other solutions, visit – https://concurrent.tech/.
02 Dec 24. IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), a leader in the quantum computing and networking industry, today announced the launch of its quantum operating system, now called IonQ Quantum OS, and a collection of new capabilities named IonQ Hybrid Services suite. These technologies will greatly advance performance and utility of quantum computing for enterprise customers.
“Our goal is to empower enterprise customers to unlock new possibilities and drive innovation with quantum computing.”
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IonQ Quantum OS is a nearly ground-up rewrite of IonQ’s original quantum operating system. Designed and built with a flexible and modular architecture, it is designed to scale and adapt with IonQ’s hybrid quantum computing ecosystem and power IonQ’s current and future flagship quantum computers, including IonQ Forte and IonQ Forte Enterprise.
Designed for improved performance, IonQ Quantum OS dramatically improves time-to-solution, including:
- An average reduction of over 50 percent in on-system classical overhead (compared to identical workloads run on IonQ Forte before the improvements were deployed).
- An 85 percent reduction in cloud and network overhead of workloads submitted through the IonQ Cloud.
- Up to 100x improved accuracy in an expanded error mitigation and compilation suite.
- Enhanced calibration, automation, and control software and firmware to optimize qubit and gate performance and adjust for systemic drifts, resulting in better algorithmic performance.
IonQ Quantum OS also offers enterprise-grade security through improved observability and enhanced interoperability across on-premise hardware and software solutions. These improvements provide customers with new options for securely integrating quantum computing into their stack. IonQ Quantum OS has been running commercial workloads on IonQ Forte since summer 2024 and will soon be operational in controlling IonQ Forte Enterprise as it comes online in IonQ’s Basel, Switzerland data center.
“We designed our Quantum OS not only to address the complex demands of today’s enterprises but to scale seamlessly as their needs evolve,” said Peter Chapman, President and CEO of IonQ. “Our goal is to empower enterprise customers to unlock new possibilities and drive innovation with quantum computing.”
Showcased as an early preview with NVIDIA at SuperCompute 2024, IonQ’s new Hybrid Services suite is designed to enable seamless development and deployment of hybrid workloads that integrate IonQ quantum computers with high-performance classical resources over the cloud. This suite introduces significant advancements to enhance the speed, performance, and usability of quantum workloads, including:
- The Workload Management & Solver Service, a quantum developer toolkit that offers capabilities to efficiently move hybrid workloads to the cloud. This service features a quantum function and hybrid solver designed to help developers simplify the process of manually building circuits and iterative algorithms by packaging them into portable workloads to be executed and enhanced based on their needs.
- A new scheduling feature, Sessions, built on top of IonQ’s Fair Share scheduling engine, is designed to streamline provisioning of QPU time so that iterative and resource-intensive workflows run with minimal wait and interruption. Sessions also provides expanded support for offerings from IonQ’s cloud partners, including Amazon Braket Hybrid Jobs and Azure Quantum Sessions.
- The all-new IonQ SDK allows for seamless, simple, and reliable integration with IonQ Quantum Cloud API and IonQ Hybrid Services.
IonQ Hybrid Services suite is already accelerating the development of real-world, commercial quantum hybrid applications with customers. IonQ recently worked with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) to implement a beta version of Hybrid Services to support the development of a NISQ-friendly quantum algorithm, which accelerates time-to-solution for hard optimization problems.
To learn more about IonQ and its latest system news and business developments, visit https://ionq.com.
About IonQ
IonQ, Inc. is a leader in quantum computing that delivers high-performance systems capable of solving the world’s largest and most complex commercial and research use cases. IonQ’s current generation quantum computer, IonQ Forte, is the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems, boasting 36 algorithmic qubits. The company’s innovative technology and rapid growth were recognized in Fast Company’s 2023 Next Big Things in Tech List and Deloitte’s 2023 Technology Fast 500™ List, respectively. Available through all major cloud providers, IonQ is making quantum computing more accessible and impactful than ever before. Learn more at IonQ.com. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
02 Dec 24. India, UK to develop electric propulsion systems for naval ships. The electric propulsion capability is expected to be designed, developed and produced for the Indian Navy. The agreement is part of the third Joint Working Group Meeting of the Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership. Credit: Ministry of Defence/Government of India/PIB Delhi. India and the UK have signed a statement of intent (SoI) on the cooperation for the design and development of electric propulsion systems for the Indian Navy. The agreement, signed in Portsmouth, aims to foster indigenous development of advanced naval technologies. The SoI was signed by Naval Systems joint secretary Rajeev Prakash, and UK Ministry of Defence Ships Operations and Capability Integration director Steve McCarthy. This agreement is part of the third joint working group meeting of the Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership. The SoI will act as a framework to co-design, co-create, and co-produce electric propulsion capabilities for future naval ships. According to the Indian Ministry of Defence, the Landing Platform Docks are planned to feature a full electric propulsion system. They are set to be constructed at an Indian shipyard. In November 2023, the second meeting of the India-UK Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership Joint Working Group was held in New Delhi. The session was co-chaired by Department of Defence Production joint secretary (Naval Systems) Rajeev Prakash and Defence Equipment and Support Ships Operations and Capability Integration director rear admiral Steve McCarthy. The discussions focused on key aspects of the electric propulsion partnership, including the finalization of the statement of technical requirements, factory acceptance test procedures, maintenance protocols, manning philosophy, and system integration requirements. (Source: naval-technology.com)
02 Dec 24. Aiding capability decision making for the Royal Navy.
Dstl helps capability decision-making for the Royal Navy, saves money and creates wealth for the UK.
The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has helped the Royal Navy improve global presence with fewer warships and sailors, drive up frigate availability, slash procurement costs and generate exports for UK industry.
Dstl scientists have:
- developed new assessment tools
- developed ways of working with industry
- provided technical support to Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S)
- provided a framework for exportability that allowed rapid decisions for procurement
Saving money and boosting industry
Dstl analysts developed the forward presence concept, basing ships overseas to increase availability and global reach, and proving that 5 ships could do the work of 11. This could save the taxpayer £10 bn compared to conventional requirement setting.
The production cost of the Type 31 frigate – approximately £250 m per ship – will generate significant taxpayer savings when compared to the cost of recent ships such as Type 45 and Type 26, which cost in the region of £1 bn per ship.
The Type 31 has already been successful on export markets, with orders for UK industry partners from Indonesia and Poland.
Swift delivery and efficiency
Dstl helped rewrite the rulebook for how to bring a warship from concept to service in drastically reduced time. This means the Type 31 could be delivered in as little as 7 years, compared to 20 or more years for previous frigates.
We have also optimised the crewing for the Type 31, reducing the numbers by nearly 40%, from 170 crew members to 105.
Expert advice for operational advantage
Dstl has advised on areas such as:
- armour
- radar
- force design
- weapon systems
Dstl’s operational research and technical expertise has ensured the Type 31 will give the UK operational advantage by being the best counter-Fast Inshore Attack Craft the Royal Navy has ever had. It is designed to deliver a global forward presence and configured to counter pervasive threats, allowing it to adapt from peacetime engagements to counter-fight operations.
Dstl is taking the same approach for the Type 32 frigate and the Multi-Role Support Ship. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
02 Dec 24. INVISIO and the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit develop wireless tactical communications through close collaboration with users. First test order of USD 3.5m has been received.
The collaboration between INVISIO and the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) demonstrates the benefits of co-engineering in the rapid development of tactical communications solutions for military use. The project has resulted in the INVISIO Link™ solution.
In the project, INVISIO worked closely with DIU, which in turn collaborated with a customer within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The aim was to develop and enable integrated wireless communication using INVISIO’s market-leading technology.
The combination of DIU’s involvement of the end users and INVISIO’s focus on innovation and customer focus, enabled both an agile goal formulation process and an efficient, iterative prototype development.
The project resulted in a wireless communication solution that allows crew members on different types of platforms (marine, land-based and airborne), to use different types of mounted radio devices, without traditional cable connections and the limitations that these are often associated with.
The initial requirements not only covered the specific project, but also described the requirements for an entire system solution. Based on this, INVISIO developed a wireless intercom solution, INVISIO Link™, which in combination with the existing body-worn communication system delivers a wireless solution. The project included ongoing feedback from different types of users and challenges over two years.
“The project is groundbreaking for many reasons. The close and smooth collaboration allowed us to accelerate the development process and go from concept phase to product launch in less than 24 months,” says Jacob Tranegaard, Director Intercom Product Management at INVISIO.
“The collaboration with the end customer, facilitated by DIU, meant that we could work through the design and goal formulation phase in an environment characterized by openness and transparency. For INVISIO, it was the first project ever where an authority had already participated in the development phase,” continues Jacob Tranegaard.
Working with DIU enabled INVISIO to conduct evaluations and develop prototypes, speeding up the testing and contracting process. DIU’s input also helped INVISIO understand and expand the product’s market potential beyond the initial request from the U.S. government.
DIU also assisted INVISIO in developing its first-ever project with encryption levels in accordance with the requirements of the US authorities.
The result is a modular wireless intercom solution adapted for users in the U.S. DoD, law enforcement and other NATO forces.
“With the help of DIU, we have been able to launch and market the product faster than usual. We have also been able to broaden the target market for the product,” says Jacob Tranegaard.
“The project not only demonstrates the benefits of collaboration and our relationship with DIU, but also the strength of INVISIO’s R&D department and our focus on innovation, teamwork and capacity to solve specific customer needs,” says Jacob Tranegaard.
INVISIO Link™, which was presented to the market in the first half of 2024, is currently pre-sold globally to many different user groups, such as small boat crews, firefighting units, helicopter-based surface salvage crews, airport maintenance and service personnel, and security forces.
Following the success of the collaboration with DIU, INVISIO is looking forward to future innovation partnerships with end-users and authorities for additional INVISIO Link™ solutions, as well as future research and development of the next generation of tactical communication solutions
29 Nov 24. Paramount launches Fusion Cell to enhance African border security. Paramount has officially unveiled its Fusion Cell integrated intelligence solution, able to rapidly gather, analyse, and disseminate actionable intelligence across national, regional and local stakeholders in order to secure Africa’s borders.
Fusion Cell integrates military, intelligence, law enforcement and other agencies’ resources into a unified, agile network, facilitating real-time intelligence sharing, enhancing decision-making processes, and boosting operational efficiency, Paramount said.
“By bringing together diverse capabilities, Fusion Cells enable African governments to counter sophisticated adversaries endangering not only national security but also peace and development across the continent,” the company said, with challenges including transnational terrorism, cross-border conflicts, and illicit trafficking.
Eric Ichikowitz, Senior Vice President of Paramount stated: “We are deeply committed to supporting Africa’s journey towards enhanced border security. With decades of on-the-ground experience, we offer operationally relevant and cost-effective turnkey solutions supported by finance packages for governments tailored to African threats.
“Our advanced surveillance systems, military vehicles, and specialised training programmes optimise performance in challenging environments. Through strategic partnerships, we are building a future of stronger, more secure African borders and foster long-term stability.”
Ichikowitz added: “Serving as central hubs for leaders across national, regional, and local levels, Fusion Cells facilitate the exchange of best practices and innovative ideas. Fusion Cells support current missions, such as counter-insurgency operations whilst also driving long-term stability by fostering multi-agency cooperation.
“Fusion Cells are designed to be adaptable and mission-focused, with clear objectives and a collaborative mentality. As the threats evolve, so too must the Fusion Cells. These units integrate representatives from diverse departments, forming elastic teams that innovate and share insights quickly. Whether co-located or virtually connected, Fusion Cells bring key stakeholders together to fuse data into actionable intelligence, empowering frontline units with the information they need to act swiftly and effectively.”
Paramount exhibited its Fusion Cell at the recent Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition where Danny Moffatt, Training & Capability Development Lead at Paramount, explained that Fusion Cell gives total control of information for efficient use of intelligence and surveillance resources for responsible and unified command and control.
He said multiple information sources can be integrated depending on customer requirements, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), camera feeds, airborne surveillance imagery etc. Fusion Cell sensors can include radar, electro-optical systems, cellular interceptors, electronic intelligence/communications intelligence (ELINT/COMINT) systems, ground sensors, sonar, acoustics and drones.
Communications networks can include satellite, HF, VHF, UHF, microwave, and GSM systems. These can be integrated with man-portable, vehicle, container, vessel, UAV, aircraft and satellite platforms that feed into mobile, deployable or fixed command centres. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
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Oxley Group Ltd
Oxley offer a range of Military Marine NVG friendly LED lighting that includes navigation lights and controls, flight deck landing lights and interior compartment lighting. Our lighting products are used by Navies around the world including our own Royal Navy on UK Aircraft Carriers, Canadian Frigates, Swedish Submarines, Australian Surface vessels and Submarines, on board French Naval Carriers and in Naval Gun Turrets.
https://oxleydevelopments.cmail20.com/t/t-l-cdhkulk-yujhutkljd-r/
The technology is extremely energy efficient and built robustly, with proven long life. The lighting is NVG friendly, dimmable and programmable to allow for operations with aircraft pilots using military night vision goggles. They offer superior design giving high reliability for the most demanding environments with high sealing and the ability to meet the most stringent EMC standards.
https://oxleydevelopments.cmail20.com/t/t-l-cdhkulk-yujhutkljd-y/
Oxley are proud to say that we are working in partnership with SeaKing to enable a control panel to be offered with our LED Navigation Lighting. All of Oxley navigation lights have been specifically developed for vessels over 50 metres.
Contact Marcus Goad on 07850 917 263 for more information or to arrange samples.
Oxley specialises in the design and manufacture of advanced electronic and electro-optic components and systems for air, land and sea applications within the military sector. Established in 1942, Oxley has manufacturing facilities in the UK and USA and enjoys representation worldwide. The company’s products include night vision and LED lighting, data capture systems and electronic components. Oxley has pioneered the development of night vision compatible lighting. It offers a total package incorporating optical filters, equipment modification, cockpit and external lighting along with fleet wide upgrade services including engineering, installation, support, maintenance and training. The company’s long experience of manufacturing night vision lighting and LED indicators, coupled with advances in LED technology, has enabled it to develop LED solutions to replace incandescent and fluorescent lighting in existing applications as well as becoming the lighting option of choice in new applications such as portable military hospitals, UAV control stations and communication shelters.
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