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05 Nov 14. More Onboard Processing Needed on UAVs. A US Navy acquisition official for unmanned aerial systems said the service sees a need to increase onboard processing of data collected by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to reduce the workload on the ground- or ship-based analysts. Mike Erk, the Navy’s deputy program executive officer for Unmanned Aviation, speaking Nov. 5 at the Unmanned Systems Program Review sponsored by the Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International, said the Navy seeks to increase the autonomy of UAVs by increasing the processing of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance data on the air vehicle before the data is transmitted to ground operators. Erk said the need has emerged to reduce the time-consuming analysis required by the operators, which would reduce the number of analysts needed. It also would enhance the cybersecurity of the UAV by reducing the opportunities for cyber intrusion. (Source: Open Source Information Report/Seapower)
03 Nov 14. Airbus Defence and Space has chosen Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES) as its terminal development partner for a new ultra-compact and lightweight X-band satellite terminal for a new service named XeBRA (Zee-brah). Utilizing Hughes’ innovative modem and waveform technology, the less than 12 lbs terminal provides an ultra-lightweight portable voice and data capability suitable for tactical military environments. Key to service delivery is the use of Airbus Defence and Space’s global X-band military communications satellite system (Skynet) whose unique features enable superior mobility with all the security benefits of X-band. “The high power and unique beam forming capabilities of our four Skynet 5 satellites mean we can provide reliable and secure high broadband speed X-band services to small terminals. With this new small proven X-band terminal from Hughes we can enhance the mobility of users in the field,” says Colin Paynter, Head of Airbus Defence and Space UK. The terminal is the first of its kind and ideal for transmitting full motion video via secure remote access. At less than 12 lbs (5.4 kg) in weight and approximately 3 x 10 x 9 inches (8 x 25.8 x 23 centimetres) in size, the terminal is the smallest X-band terminal available and can deliver up to 512 kbps through the Skynet 5 system, which is enough to transmit high quality video conferencing or online streaming services. It is easily stowable and man-portable for transport on foot for Communications on the Pause (COTP) operations. “We are excited about working with Airbus Defence and Space and applying Hughes’ innovations in modem and packaging technology to this ground-breaking service,” said Rick Lober, Vice President and General Manager of Hughes Defense and Intelligence Systems Division. The Hughes terminal is highly reliable and can operate with standard military battery packs. Satellite pointing and acquisition are easily achieved using a built in LCD screen and adjustable stand which allows the terminal to maintain connectivity and throughput in harsh environmental conditions. Find out more about XeBRA at Global MilSatCom November 4th – 6th in London, UK at booth 23 for Airbus Defence and Space and booth 13 for Hughes. (Source: Yahoo!/BUSINESS WIRE)
06 Nov 14. Engineers at BAE Systems are overhauling their approach to the design and build of Royal Navy warships by using cutting edge virtual reality technology. The company has constructed a network of ‘visualisation suites’ at its sites in Glasgow, Portsmouth and Bristol, which create full scale 3D ship prototypes, enabling engineering teams to virtually build and test the design of vessels in advance of the first steel being cut. A laser tracking system and interactive wand allows operators to fly through a ship’s design from any angle and the ability to inspect and examine specific areas