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08 Mar 24. The Indian Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved a highly anticipated project for the design and prototype development of an indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter, or the advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA), at a cost of around ₹15,000 crore, officials aware of the matter said on Thursday.
It is perhaps the most significant military project to be cleared by the government before India’s general elections due in April-May.
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The project will involve the design and development of five twin-engine AMCA prototypes, with the stealth fighter likely to go into production only after a decade, the officials said, asking not to be named.
The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) modernisation map envisages the deployment of around 120 stealth fighters (six squadrons) 2035 onwards, with the advanced planes forming an important element of future air combat.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Aeronautical Development Agency and state-run plane maker Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will be involved in the AMCA project, which will be developed in two phases, as previously reported by HT.
The first two squadrons will consist of the Mk-1 version of AMCA powered by the American F-414 engines, while the remaining four squadrons will have the more advanced Mk-2 version equipped with an even more powerful engine to be built in India with foreign collaboration.
The joint production of GE Aerospace’s F-414 engines in India will help the country overcome a striking technology gap, lay the foundation for indigenous development of bigger jet engines and possibly open doors to exports; and the American company and HAL could hammer out a deal this year.
Fifth generation fighters come with stealth features to increase survivability in combat, advanced avionics, smart weapons stored internally, top-end mission computers, 360-degree situational awareness, and super-cruise capability that will allow it to fly at supersonic speeds for extended periods without kicking in fuel-guzzling afterburners.
“The critical design review of AMCA was cleared some time ago and the CCS approval was much awaited. This paves the path for the full-scale development of AMCA, which is crucial for IAF’s future combat capabilities and India’s Atmanirbharta drive. As China is pushing ahead with deploying its own fifth generation aircraft, we need to hasten the AMCA project to give IAF a matching capability,” said Air Marshal Anil Chopra (retd), director general, Centre for Air Power Studies.
GE and HAL signed a memorandum of understanding in Washington in June 2023 to produce 99 F-414 engines for India’s light combat aircraft (LCA) Mk-2 programme during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s US visit last year. The deal will involve 80% transfer of technology (ToT) and is estimated to be worth around $1 bn.
Also, French engine maker Safran is willing to transfer 100% technology to build fighter jet engines in the country.
DRDO was earlier looking at incorporating sixth-generation technologies in AMCA and examining the possibility of equipping it with directed energy weapons, superior anti-missile systems, advanced missile approach warning systems and teaming it with unmanned systems. Sixth-generation technologies are more advanced than those in any fighter jet currently in service globally.
India was earlier planning to co-develop a stealth fighter with Russia, but the proposed fifth-generation fighter aircraft (FGFA) project was abandoned after IAF expressed strong reservations over high cost and limited technology of transfer.
Achieving self-reliance in the defence manufacturing sector is a top priority for the government.
In a big push for the ongoing self-reliance drive, the defence ministry on March 1 signed five contracts worth ₹39,125 crore for BrahMos missiles, ship borne Brahmos systems, close-in weapon systems, high-power radars, and aero-engines for MiG-29 fighter planes.
India has sharpened its focus on the defence manufacturing sector during the last five to six years and taken several measures to achieve self-reliance. These include banning the import of a range of weapons, systems and parts, creating a separate budget for buying locally made military hardware, increasing foreign direct investment from 49% to 74% and improving ease of doing business. (Source: Google/https://www.hindustantimes.com/)
07 Mar 24. Russia’s New Tu-160M Bomber Looks Like Trouble for NATO. Russian President Vladimir Putin’s flight in the modernized Tu-160M strategic bomber, a symbol of Russia’s advanced nuclear capabilities, underscores the country’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a formidable nuclear triad. The Tu-160M, an upgrade of the Cold War-era “White Swan,” features enhanced armaments, electronic warfare systems, and new NK-32-02 engines.
Summary: Russian President Vladimir Putin’s flight in the modernized Tu-160M strategic bomber, a symbol of Russia’s advanced nuclear capabilities, underscores the country’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a formidable nuclear triad. The Tu-160M, an upgrade of the Cold War-era “White Swan,” features enhanced armaments, electronic warfare systems, and new NK-32-02 engines. Russia’s plan to expand its fleet with over 50 new Tu-160Ms, alongside the development of the PAK DA stealth bomber, demonstrates its intention to bolster its strategic military forces. The Tu-160M’s role as a key component of Russia’s nuclear deterrence strategy highlights its strategic importance in global security dynamics.
Russian President Vladimir Putin in February wanted to send a message to the West about his nation’s nuclear capabilities. Putin took a 30-minute flight on a Tupolev Tu-160M strategic long-range bomber, and Putin was quick to praise the aircraft.
The Tu-160 was developed during the Cold War, but the modernized Tu-160M that carried Putin came from a new batch of bombers being produced for the Russian Aerospace Forces.
“It’s a new machine, a lot about it is new. It’s easier to control. It’s reliable,” Putin said after he exited the aircraft.
Russia’s nuclear doctrine sets out the conditions under which a Russian president would consider using a nuclear weapon. Such circumstances include responding to an attack that uses nuclear or other weapons of mass destruction, or responding to the use of conventional weapons against Russia when the very existence of the state is put under threat.
Putin’s flight was seen by some Western analysts as a warning that the Kremlin remains a highly capable nuclear power. The Tu-160 is a part of its nuclear triad, and this was not the first time Putin sat in the cockpit of a Russian bomber. He flew in an older version of the Tu-160 during a training exercise in 2005.
New Flock of White Swans
Last July, the Kremlin announced that the upgraded Tupolev Tu-160M strategic bomber prototype had entered joint trials of the Russian Defense Ministry and the state-owned United Aircraft Corporation (UAC).
(Source: News Now/https://nationalinterest.org)
08 Mar 24. US Army seeking zero trust software for tactical networks. US Army officials are looking to develop a new slate of zero trust software for use on the service’s tactical networks as a way to further insulate battlefield command, control, and communications operations from rapidly maturing cyber threats.
Industry proposals for tactical zero trust software are due to programme officials at the army’s Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) Center by 15 March, with the end goal of developing network software that aims “to address the [zero trust] activities for the tactical environment to as far down into the network as feasibly possible”, according to a 5 March solicitation.
Commercial and government networks developed within a zero trust architecture operate under the assumption that an organisation’s networks are not just at risk of a cyber intrusion, but that they are already compromised. (Source: Janes)
07 Mar 24. Rivelin Robotics leads Innovate UK’s Project CAMPFIRE. Sheffield based Rivelin Robotics is leading a funded project that is set to deliver automated finishing of flight parts, produced using metal additive manufacturing (AM) processes.
The project is part of the UK Research and Innovation’s MSI Challenge, delivered by Innovate UK, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and the Economic and Social Research Council. It is one of 11 grants, totalling £3.7m, awarded to late-stage robotics and automation projects ‘with a focus on developing solutions to improve productivity, sustainability and resilience within factory production areas,’ according to Innovate UK.
Designated Project CAMPFIRE (Certified Additive Manufactured Parts Finished with Intelligent Robotics Engine), the team at Rivelin is leading this project, working with partners and collaborators who are as committed to success as they are for delivering advanced automated metal post-processing solutions for AM parts.
The partners fully engaged in this project include GKN Aerospace, Materials Solutions (a Siemens Energy Business) and Attenborough Medical, along with partners on the supplier side Yaskawa EU and Saint-Gobain.
The post processing of metal AM parts is well known for causing a bottleneck in the production of end-use parts, particularly at scale. Rivelin’s Netshape Robots, which utilise 3D vision and force control algorithms, have already proved their worth in industrial settings since their launch in 2022. This project is set to demonstrate the capabilities of Netshape Robots’ at the next level, with the potential to revolutionise tightly regulated industries (such as aerospace, medical and energy, as well as civil aerospace, defence and automotive) and unlock growth and investments in automation and AM.
Commenting on the project and where it can lead, Robert Bush, CEO of Rivelin Robotics said: “The support from Innovate UK has been pivotal in accelerating Rivelin Robotics’ journey. The funding not only catalyses the development of our innovative platform, but also empowers us to tackle complex challenges in additive manufacturing. This grant is a key enabler in our mission to revolutionise robotic finishing of near-net-shape parts, enhancing the UK’s position in advanced manufacturing.”
With a 15-month run time, the goals of project CAMPFIRE seek to automate the manual, filthy and time-intensive metal support removal process. This alone, according to key stakeholders, would be a primary enabler in achieving a much more competitive business case for AM components. The ability to also finish those components to optimised specifications of the application and the regulatory standards they must adhere to also adds further value and will be a huge leap forward with a successful project outcome. (Source: Google/ADS)
07 Mar 24. Rohde & Schwarz introduces dedicated phase noise analysis and VCO measurements up to 50 GHz with the R&S FSPN50. With the latest model of the R&S FSPN phase noise analyzer and VCO tester, Rohde & Schwarz extends the frequency range for measurements from the previous maximum of 26.5 GHz up to 50 GHz. By rigorously implementing functions strictly for phase noise analysis and voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) measurements, Rohde & Schwarz offers an excellent price-to-performance ratio with all R&S FSPN models. The R&S FSPN provides both high speed measurements and also accuracy for characterizing sources such as synthesizers, VCOs, OCXOs and DROs. Since a trade-off between increasing speed of test and higher accuracy is inevitable, users can choose the setting best suiting their application. This makes the R&S FSPN an ideal solution not only for production test, but also for many oscillator development requirements.
The new R&S FSPN50 covers the frequency range from 1 MHz to 50 GHz and complements the existing 8 and 26.5 GHz models. For engineers both developing and producing high quality oscillators, the R&S FSPN50 supports applications in the Ka band from 26.5 to 40 GHz, and in the Q band (36 to 46 GHz) and in the lower V band up to 50 GHz. Typical applications at these frequencies include commercial point-to-point wireless and microwave communication systems, satellite communications including high throughput satellite services, military satellite and communication systems operating up to 50 GHz, close-range targeting radars, and practically the entire 5G FR2 frequency range from 21.84 GHz to 50.20 GHz.
The excellent phase noise sensitivity of the R&S FSPN is based on two low noise internal local oscillators enabling real-time cross correlation. The user can increase the number of correlations for higher accuracy or reduce them for higher speed. The current cross-correlation sensitivity gain is shown in real-time together with the current result trace. Phase noise and amplitude noise are measured separately and simultaneously, providing both an excellent analysis of phase noise performance, and a direct route for identifying the cause of any problems, without any compromise in measurement speed. Accurate VCO measurements are enabled by three low-noise DC sources. OCXO and DRO technologies as well as VCO can all be measured. For easy remote control and production automation, sequences of SCPI commands can be recorded automatically.
The new R&S FSPN50 phase noise analyzer and VCO tester up to 50 GHz is now available from Rohde & Schwarz. For further information, go to: https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/product/FSPN
07 Mar 24. French defense ministry picks startups to develop quantum computers.
France’s defense-procurement agency said it awarded contracts to five domestic computer-research startups to develop technology that will allow the country to have two universal quantum computer prototypes by 2032, with the goal of developing quantum systems usable for defense requirements.
The framework agreements with the five companies – Alice & Bob, C12, Pasqal, Quandela and Quobly – are worth up to €500m (US$545m), the Armed Forces Ministry said in an emailed statement on March 6.
President Emmanuel Macron announced a national quantum strategy three years ago to equip the country with the computing resources required to guarantee France’s sovereignty in the field. Quantum computing exploits the laws of quantum physics with the goal of solving complex problems faster than with classical computers, a target known as quantum advantage.
“Quantum technology is of major importance to the Armed Forces, with potential applications in cryptography or in communications,” the ministry said in the statement. “The revolution underway will allow us to perceive our environment with unprecedented precession, discover new materials, explore new ways of transmitting information, navigate there where the GPS network is inaccessible.”
The program to develop quantum-computer prototypes will be coordinated by the Defense Digital Agency, known by its French acronym AND, and part of the procurement agency.
Google, IBM and others have built the first wave of quantum computers, but challenges around stability and scalability means commercial applications still face hurdles. In quantum computing, information is stored in quantum bits, or qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously, potentially enabling the technology to outperform a traditional system based on binary bits.
France two years ago announced a hybrid quantum computing network to connect traditional systems and quantum computers, making them available to research institutions, startups and industry partners.
The five French startups “all have what it takes to meet this challenge, but tit’s too early to say which of them will succeed in overcoming the various engineering, manufacturing and industrialization hurdles,” the ministry said. “That why this partnership takes the form of a three-stage competition: proof of concept, maturation and then industrialization.”
Four years in to the program, the three most successful projects will be retained to develop the best logic qubits capable of going to scale, according to the ministry. At the eight-year mark, the competition will be limited to two technologies, which will continue to be developed from prototype computers, with a goal of 128 logic qubits, to commercial systems, with a goal of 2,048 qubits, and usable by their first customers.
Paris-based Alice & Bob was founded in 2020 and has raised more than €30 m, working on a universal quantum computer with error correction. C12, founded in the same year and also based in the French capital, is using carbon nanotubes to build its quantum processor, after securing €10m in seed funding in 2021.
Pasqal, founded in 2019, has raised more than €140m to date and is developing a quantum computer using neutral atoms ordered in arrays. Quandela raised more than €50m in November, and is using photonics as its technology of choice, which the company says is relatively easy to scale and operates largely at room temperature. Quobly is developing error-tolerant quantum-computing processors which it says can be built using existing semiconductor fabs, and the Grenoble-based company in July closed its first funding round of €19m. (Source: Defense News Early Bird/Defense News)
06 Mar 24. USAF Successfully Tests New Agile Aircraft Power Lightcart. The Department of the Air Force, or DAF, completed testing of the 400 Hz Aircraft Power Lightcart, or 400 APL in January 2024. The tests, which were conducted with the 174th Attack Wing at Hancock Field Air National Guard Base in Syracuse, New York, saw the prototype successfully power an MQ-9, or Predator, through a series of technical orders.
The 400 APL project, which was led by the Air Force Research Laboratory’s, or AFRL’s, Energy Office, promotes the U.S. Air Force’s push toward the Agile Combat Employment, or ACE concept, which is to disperse aircraft and equipment between major hub bases and smaller airfields to improve resilience and survivability. ACE operations require aircraft, Airmen and equipment to rapidly relocate to the combat edge and generate combat sorties. Small, light, multi-capable equipment is critical to reducing logistics demands and increasing combat tempo and agility.
The 400 APL provides an efficient power and light source that is 4,500 pounds lighter than the combined weight of the two pieces of equipment it will replace, the B809 generator and the MLC4064AF lightcart. This translates to an overall reduction in the system logistics footprint and fuel consumption.
“Support for this program has been off the charts,” said Tom Layne, project team lead and engineer at the AFRL Energy Office. “The requirement jointly came in from Air Force Global Strike Command and Air Force Special Operations Command, for programming weapons and powering small airframes on the ground. The prime contractor was Concurrent Technologies Corporation with design inputs coming from Pacific Air Forces, Air Combat Command, Air Force Special Operations Command, Air National Guard, Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC)/A4M, and three program offices: Support Equipment & Vehicles, Automatic Test Systems, and MQ-9.”
Lt. Col. Lee Nietzel, Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander for the 174th Attack Wing, said he was thrilled with the successful test and the part that the 400 APL would play in the ability to set up rapid launch and recovery sites.
“Our Aircraft Maintenance Squadron’s capability to be agile resides with reducing and simplifying our equipment footprint,” said Nietzel. “Being agile means less equipment, less weight, and quicker mobilization at a launch and recovery site. Our goal is a single C-130 to setup a rapid launch and recovery site. The APL cart helps get us to our goal by replacing two pieces of equipment with one, in turn a [nearly] 5,000-pound reduction in weight and one pallet position. We look forward to future testing of APL with our newly acquired Reaper Rapid Reaction Trailer, which will improve the speed of our mobilization at a launch and recovery site.”
Senior Master Sgt. Michael Thayer, Aerospace Ground Equipment lead at headquarters Air Force Materiel Command, or AFMC, Aircraft Maintenance Division, who also participated in the testing, said he was impressed with the prototype.
“The 400 APL has the potential to be a game-changer,” Thayer said. “Its multi-capable design includes aircraft and convenience power with LED lighting during low-light operations. It also has reduced maintenance requirements. It’s a perfect right-sized unit for future mobility requirements.”
Lt. Col. Van Nostrand, deputy chief of the Support Equipment and Vehicle Program Office, has been a driving force to both right-size and modernize flightline equipment.
“In parallel with this prototype effort, the Support Equipment and Vehicle Division is working with our Air Force-wide partners and making a hard push to define aircraft platform combat minimum technical requirements to enable right-sized solutions such as this prototype power cart to be used in more places to reduce the USAF Aircraft Support footprint and increase USAF agile operations,” Van Nostrand said.
The team is currently working on an even more capable variant of the 400 APL that will be able to provide power to larger combat airframes in ACE operations, such as the
About AFRL
The Air Force Research Laboratory, or AFRL, is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace force. With a workforce of more than 12,500 across nine technology areas and 40 other operations across the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development.
(Source: UAS VISION)
06 Mar 24. Teledyne e2v HiRel announces the availability of a rad-tolerant S-Band low noise amplifier, model TDLNA2050SEP that is ideal for use in demanding high reliability, space and radar applications where low noise figure, minimal power consumption and small package footprint are critical to mission success. This new LNA, developed on a 90 nm enhancement-mode pseudomorphic High Electron Mobility Transistor (pHEMT) process, is available in an 8-pin dual-flat no-lead (DFN) 2 mm x 2 mm x 0.75 mm plastic surface mount package, and is qualified per MIL‑PRF‑38534 Class K. The TDLNA2050SEP LNA leverages monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) design techniques that deliver exceptional performance in the S-band communication channel. The TDLNA2050SEP amplifier delivers a gain of 17.5 dB from 2 GHz to 5 GHz while maintaining a noise figure of less than 0.4 dB and an output power (P1dB) of 19.5 dBm. The device should be biased at a VDD of +5.0 volts and IDDQ of 60 mA and an evaluation kit is also available for customer evaluation.
“Today, we’re releasing our latest LNA, optimized for space and radar applications,” said Mont Taylor, Vice President and Business Development Manager at Teledyne e2v HiRel. “With a noise figure of less than 0.4 dB coupled with ease of use from a positive single supply voltage, we believe this new product will provide system designers with a superior solution for both space-based communication, phased array radar and communications system applications.”
The TDLNA2050SEP is TID radiation tolerant to 100 krad (Si), making it an excellent choice for satellite communication systems by increasing the power of radio signals with minimal noise and distortion which can degrade digital signals. For more information on all of Teledyne e2v HiRel’s space offerings, review our portfolio of semiconductors, converters, processors, and related services here on the Teledyne Defense Electronics website.
Devices are available for ordering and shipment today, from Teledyne e2v HiRel or an authorized distributor, in commercial versions and with the option of Classes H and K-equivalent screening. They are shipped from our DoD Trusted Facility in Milpitas, California.
ABOUT TELEDYNE e2v HIREL ELECTRONICS
Teledyne e2v HiRel’s innovations lead developments in space, transportation, defense and industrial markets. Teledyne e2V HiRel’s unique approach involves listening to the market and application challenges of customers and partnering with them to provide innovative standard, semi-custom or fully custom solutions, bringing increased value to their systems. For more information, visit www.tdehirel.com (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
05 Mar 24. Wave Engine Corp. Demonstrates Complete Flight Capability on a UAV using a Jet Engine That Requires No Moving Parts. The North American Wave Engine Corporation (“Wave Engine Corp.”), a leader in affordable next-gen propulsion technology and aerial systems, has demonstrated complete flight capability on a UAV using a jet engine that requires no moving parts. A demonstration flight included self-powered take-off, climb-cruise and landing. The propulsion system is generally the most expensive and complex component of a jet powered aircraft, and this technological development signals major improvements for the cost and rapid-producibility of future jet powered aircraft. A video of the flight was also made available here:
Wave engines are a class of aircraft engines that operate using pressure waves instead of rotating machinery. Intermittent combustion inside a hollow tube produces pressure waves that push hot gases and produce thrust. Wave Engine Corp.’s proprietary technology enables high speeds and allows for an order-of-magnitude reduction in the cost and complexity of jet propulsion, which is a critical enabler for an increasing number of applications that call for affordable and rapidly-producible jet propulsion systems and aircraft.
For the demonstration flight, a 50+ lbf (222+ N) thrust wave engine was used as the sole powerplant on a 100 lbs (45 kg) gross weight Conventional Take-Off and Landing UAV. Remote instant start on liquid fuel was also demonstrated as part of the flight sequence. The company has developed engines ranging from 50 lbf (222 N) to 250 lbf (1112 N) maximum thrust suitable for aircraft ranging from 100 lbs (45 kg) to 1000 lbs (450 kg) gross weight, and demonstrated operation on gasoline/petrol (87 Octane), kerosene-based fuel (Jet-A/JP-8) and sustainable ethanol-based biofuel (E85).
The company also announced that it had successfully demonstrated multiple mid-air starts and operated its engines at airspeeds up to 200 mph, limited only by the practical limits of the test facility. Additionally, the company has demonstrated Thrust Specific Fuel Consumption (TSFC) levels under 2.0 lbs/lbf-hr to rival the efficiency of turbine-based engines, and performance continues to improve as development progresses. “We continue to push the performance and flight envelope,” said Daanish Maqbool, CEO of Wave Engine Corporation. “We have worked for years to harness the power of sound and fire, and we believe it is going to change the industry.”
The company also announced its launch product, the 50+ lbf thrust J-1 engine, and welcomed potential partners for inquiries and demonstrations.
About Wave Engine Corporation
Based in Baltimore, MD, Wave Engine Corp. is a focused group of scientists, engineers and former Fortune 500 executives that is leveraging recent technological developments in propulsion, acoustics and combustion control to develop the next generation of propulsion and aircraft systems. With its unique set of technical experts, test facilities and intellectual property, Wave Engine Corp. is committed to leadership in technology and product development for an emerging breed of jet propulsion and aircraft systems. Learn more at http://wave-engine.com. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
05 Mar 24. Announcing HyFIVE: the UK consortium spearheading hydrogen fuel system development. A group of UK aerospace and academic leaders have joined together to establish HyFIVE, a consortium that will develop a world-leading hydrogen fuel system and supply chain supporting zero-emission aviation in the 2030s.
HyFIVE combines the expertise of industry partners Marshall, GKN Aerospace and Parker Meggitt, while specialised R&D will be conducted by the University of Manchester, the University of Bath and Cardiff University.
Announced this week by Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt, the consortium will receive initial funding of nearly £40m, with an investment of £17m from industry to be matched with £20m from government. The project is supported by the ATI Programme, a partnership between Department for Business and Trade, Aerospace Technology Institute and Innovate UK (UKRI).
Welcoming the announcement, Industry Minister Nusrat Ghani said: “This is another win for our world-leading aerospace sector, cementing the UK’s position at the forefront of zero emissions technology and taking the UK to new heights in the pursuit of cleaner, greener air travel.
“This announcement is the latest in a long line of wins for UK aviation and builds on the success of the £4.5bn investment as part of our Advanced Manufacturing Plan and launch of our Hydrogen Taskforce, placing UK expertise at the cutting edge of hydrogen fuel innovation.”
Pioneering zero-emission flight
The overarching objective of the HyFIVE consortium is to develop, test and validate a modular, scalable cryogenic hydrogen fuel system architecture that is suitable for multiple aircraft classes and compatible with either hydrogen electric propulsion or hydrogen combustion powertrains.
Specifically, the collaboration will cover five key aspects of technology development for hydrogen fuel systems: storage, conveyance, indication, fuelling and venting.
The HyFIVE consortium members have defined a full technical programme spanning several years, starting with initial architecture development and supplier engagement and running all the way through to ground testing and final design review for the integrated fuel system.
More information can be found at marshallgroup.co.uk
By 2027 the consortium plans to have:
- developed and validated an integrated family of mature fuel system technologies and capabilities conducive to certification;
- conducted ground demonstration (TRL 6) of an integrated fuel system encompassing the storage, conveyance, indication, venting and fuelling systems;
- opened a range of flight demonstration and exploitation paths with prospective customers; and
- developed a customer-ready supply chain and industrialisation strategy.
Timely achievement of these objectives will support the successful introduction of a new generation of zero emissions aircraft in the 2030s.
Building on complementary strengths
The HyFIVE collaboration is structured to take advantage of each industry partner’s unique capabilities.
Marshall will bring to the consortium its expertise in complex system design, integration and certification, honed through decades of delivering aircraft fuel systems and complex aircraft modification projects.
GKN Aerospace, which specialises in the design, manufacture and assembly of aircraft structures, engine components and systems, will contribute its industry-leading advanced materials and hydrogen cryogenic system optimisation knowhow.
Parker Meggitt will lead on aspects of the collaboration related to motion, control and thermal technologies, drawing on its specialised knowledge of fuel systems, electromechanical actuation and thermal management.
The consortium’s three UK academic partners—the University of Manchester, University of Bath, and Cardiff university—have been selected for their world-leading research capabilities and advanced testing facilities in areas such as hydrogen-electric propulsion, cryogenic applications, power transmission, turbomachinery and next-generation material development.
Furthermore, the project will develop a supply chain of SMEs to undertake more specialised challenges around testing, engineering support and component development, supporting UK industry while also laying the groundwork for future supply chain capability development.
More information can be found at marshallgroup.co.uk
“The HyFIVE programme is primed to solve the significant technical, safety, certification and industrialisation challenges associated with the application of LH2 in aviation and those identified by our FlyZero programme and Destination Zero strategy,” said Jacqueline Castle,
Chief Technology Officer, Aerospace Technology Institute.
“The HyFIVE team will work in parallel with key regulatory frameworks and infrastructure projects, including the ATI’s own Hydrogen Capability Network, to ensure the UK maximises the gains from such a significant industrial research project.”
Developing the UK’s leadership in clean aviation
Hydrogen propulsion is considered a critical pathway for the aviation industry to achieve its ambitious goal of net zero emissions by 2050.
To that end, in 2021 the UK Government unveiled its Hydrogen Strategy, which takes a holistic approach to developing a thriving hydrogen sector. The strategy targets aviation as a key sector for decarbonisation from the 2030s onward.
“HyFIVE is a true UK powerhouse, bringing together industry leaders with a track record of certifying new aerospace technologies and the industrial scale to successfully deliver to market,” said Marshall CEO Kathy Jenkins.
“Combining our respective strengths and drawing on support from some of the world’s top R&D centres will result in a consortium that is truly greater than the sum of its parts.”
GKN Aerospace Chief Technology Officer Russ Dunn commented: “We believe that zero emissions flight will be a core part of delivering a sustainable global aviation industry and will make an important contribution to the UK Government’s Jet Zero targets. The HyFIVE programme will develop foundational technologies to deliver that future whilst also providing significant market opportunities for the UK as we look towards industrialisation. The ATI continues to be a vital part of the UK’s aerospace technology ecosystem, supporting important innovation projects like HyFIVE. We are very proud to be a partner in the HyFIVE programme and look forward to working in the consortium in the coming years.”
05 Mar 24. Advantech slim yet full-function fanless embedded computer for automation and robotics applications. Advantech, a leading provider of AIoT platforms and services, is excited to introduce the ARK-2251, a sleek and full-function fanless embedded computer powered by 13th Gen Intel® Core™ i3/i5/i7 processors. This cutting-edge system delivers robust computing power, streamlined processing, and real-time analytics and stands out with its 19+ I/O connections, making it easy to connect with various sensors and devices. You can also add features such as fieldbus protocol, with 10+ iDoor modules. The ARK-2251 supports wireless connections with Wi-Fi 6 and 5G modules via an M.2 slot, adding an extra layer of security and remote management capabilities through optional TPM 2.0 modules and DeviceOn software. Its slim profile, with a height of only 2.13 inches makes it ideal for various applications and environments such as conveyor systems and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).
Ultra-Thin Design with Extensive Connectivity for Easy Deployment
The ARK-2251, powered by 13th Generation Intel® Core™ i3/i5/i7 processors, employs a performance hybrid architecture for efficient operation. Its slim fanless design, with a low profile of 2.13 inches, is ideal for industrial applications with limited space and supports a wide operating temperature range. Featuring 19+ I/O interfaces, the embedded computer is well-suited for diverse industrial needs. It also supports 10+ iDoor modules, offering customizable expansion options for specific integration requirements. Additionally, the ARK-2251 provides an optional PoE module, delivering up to 15W per port (LAN 2 and LAN 3), making it easy to power devices like lighting, access points, IP CAMs, or other IoT units that are wall or ceiling mounted and may not have easy access to a power outlet. The ARK-2251 makes deployment easy and flexible.
Reliable, Fast, and Secure for Edge/AIoT Applications
As the number of IoT devices continues to grow, having wireless capability is crucial for processing and storing the vast amounts of data generated from cameras and sensors at the edge. The ARK-2251 meets this demand by providing Mini-PCIe and M.2 interfaces, enhancing flexibility for deployment on a network. The M.2 slot supports Wi-Fi 6 and 5G modules, ensuring robust wireless connectivity. To enhance security and data processing efficiency, the ARK-2251 features two 2.5GbE LAN ports, enabling Wi-Fi 6E throughput. It also supports AMO-IO29 TPM 2.0 modules, bolstering cybersecurity for a privacy-focused and secure environment. Additionally, the ARK-2251 integrates the DeviceOn platform, which is seamlessly compatible with Windows, Linux, and Android OS. This platform manages various devices like sensors, meters, and GPS efficiently. DeviceOn is a highly efficient and resilient platform and can be installed on-premises or in the cloud, allowing seamless remote management of power, system monitoring, troubleshooting, and AIoT device upgrades from anywhere and anytime.
Customization services
For customers requiring customized solutions, Advantech’s European DMS team offers a wide range of local design and manufacturing services.
Key Features
- 13th Gen Intel® Core™ i3/5/7 processors
- Dual DDR5 4800MHz SODIMM memory (up to 64GB)
- 12 ~ 24 VDC wide-range power input
- I/O ports: 2 x 2.5 GbE, 1 x GbE, 6 x USB 3.1, 6 x COM, 1 x 16-bit DIO, 2 x CAN Bus
- Supports 10+ iDoor modules (optional), AMO-IO29 TPM 2.0 modules (optional), MIOe-PSE module (optional), and DeviceOn software
05 Mar 24. TactoTek and TNO at Holst Centre have entered a strategic relationship to advance the state-of-the-art of in-mold structural electronics (IMSE®), including working together to build an ecosystem for sustainability and recycling. The companies’ joint research will include methods for recycling IMSE solutions that integrate circuitry and electronic components within 3D plastics. The companies share the bold ambition of making IMSE parts the first truly circular electronics devices.
TNO at Holst Centre is a global innovation and research leader whose specialties include printed and flexible electronics as well as climate impacts. According to Jeroen van den Brand, Department Manager of Printed Electronics at Holst Centre, “TactoTek’s IMSE platforms inherently provide substantial sustainability benefits by significantly reducing the number of components and amount of materials required for electronic solutions. Solving the challenge of separating diverse materials in an IMSE part we can approach circularity for IMSE and certain other types of rigid and flexible printed electronics solutions.”
TactoTek is the pioneer and leading innovator of IMSE technology. The company’s technology platforms integrate printed electronics and electronic components within 3D injection-molded plastics to create smart surfaces for uses such as lighting and human-machine interfaces (HMIs). Because IMSE is licensed by some of the world’s largest manufacturers, sustainability gains can scale quickly.
“Electronics content is increasing across many markets, including automotive, appliances, IoT, and others, therefore, driving to full circularity for electronics is an important aspect of achieving global greenhouse gas emissions reduction and sustainability,” according to TactoTek’s CTO Antti Keränen. “TNO at Holst Centre has earned its reputation as a premiere research institution and TactoTek is enthusiastic about our partnership to create the next generation of fully recyclable electronics. Together we can assess techniques that span design, production, and post-use reclamation.”
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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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