Military Systems & Technology magazine - Edition 2- 2025
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. 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.
NANUK - Rugged cargo cases built for mission-critical military transport
Teledyne FLIR - Automated Synthetic Data Generation in AI Model Development for Object Detection
ST Engineering - Enhancing Disaster Response with the ExtremV
CRFS - How geolocating transmitters helps when assessing an enemy orbat
Fischer Panda UK - Auxiliary systems that are suitable for versatile defence applicaitons
Red Cat - Expands Maritime Domain Capabilities with Battle-Tested Unmanned Surface Vessels
Cummins - Proven partners in defence
Adventure Tactical - Strategic Deployments in Middle East and Asia Following Strong Global Interest Post-SOF Week 2025
Hutchinson - Plant in Château-Gontier achieves AeroExcellence Bronze level
Leonardo DRS - Develop Prototype Next-Generation Weapons Control System for U.S. Army M109A7 Paladin
GREATER EFFICIENCY AND RELIABILITY
IN ARMOURED VEHICLES WITH PIEDRAFITA'S NEW GENERATION TRACK TENSIONER
In the demanding environment of defence, where every detail has a direct impact on the safety, performance and operability of vehicles, the correct tensioning of the tracks is a critical factor.
Piedrafita, a leading company in technological innovation for military mobility, presents its hydropneumatic track tensioner, an advanced, robust and fully personalised solution designed to maintain optimum track tension at all times.
The track tensioner is an essential part of track vehicles, especially in rough terrain or under extreme conditions. Its role goes far beyond keeping the track taut: it directly influences vehicle handling, crew comfort, fuel consumption and the life of both the track and the suspension system.
TECHNOLOGY THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE
The hydropneumatic system developed by Piedrafita offers a unique combination of high compression and extension performance, allowing it to automatically adapt to changes in tension caused by terrain or track wear. Thanks to its adjustable gas preload, the tensioner can be configured specifically for each type of vehicle, mission or operating environment.
One of its key features is its ability to operate in extreme climatic conditions, from -46°C to 120°C, making it a reliable component for operations in high mountain, desert or arctic climates. In addition, its compact and lightweight design (750 x 155 x 250 mm and 30 kg in weight) makes it ideal for both new developments and retrofitting existing armoured platforms.
AUTOMATION AND PRECISION FROM INSIDE THE VEHICLE
The Piedrafita Systems track tensioner allows the tension to be adjusted automatically without the need for external intervention, optimising the vehicle's operating time. This adjustment can be carried out from inside the vehicle, providing added safety and efficiency for the crew.
The ability to integrate it with advanced diagnostic systems (HUMS) makes this tensioner a key part of predictive maintenance programmes. In addition, it is compatible with both steel link and continuous rubber chains, where it even incorporates a collapsible function to adapt to their particularities.
DESIGNED FOR VEHICLES UP TO 70 TONS
The Piedrafita track tensioner has been designed to operate on vehicles up to 70 tonnes, covering a wide spectrum of military platforms. Its reliability, modularity and configurability make it the ideal choice for fleet modernisation programmes and for new armoured developments that demand maximum mobility and durability
NANUK Rugged Cargo Cases Built for Mission-Critical Military Transport
NANUK cargo cases deliver operational performance where it matters most—on the ground, in the air, or at sea. Trusted by military units and defense agencies worldwide, NANUK is the name professionals rely on for secure, durable, and mobile transport of mission-essential equipment.
Purpose-built for demanding field conditions, NANUK cases are engineered to withstand impact, extreme temperatures, and harsh terrain. Featuring durable polyurethane wheels or optional clip-on casters, our cargo solutions ensure quick deployment and efficient load mobility—wherever the mission takes them.
Leading the line are the NANUK 975 and 976 our largest military-approved cargo cases. Now available with clip on casters, these cases allow heavy payloads to be repositioned with speed and precision, minimizing setup time and maximizing operational efficiency.
We are also proud to introduce the NANUK 994 single-rifle long case—lightweight, compact, and rugged. Engineered for rapid deployment and weapon protection, it features four patented PowerClaw latches and high-impact construction to safeguard mission-critical weapons under extreme conditions.
The NANUK-R Collection
Developed in close collaboration with engineers, the NANUK-R Collection represents the next evolution in field-ready protection: the first highend, eco-friendly protective cases that reduce carbon footprint by over 50%.
Designed to support modern combat gear, technical equipment, and mission-critical kits with uncompromising reliability in the most unpredictable environments, each case undergoes rigorous quality control to ensure elite performance in the field.
NANUK will be exhibiting at DSEI, where defense professionals can experience first-hand the strength, mobility, and adaptability of our transport solutions designed for real-world military operations.
By choosing NANUK-R, you’re not only investing in operational readiness—you’re actively supporting sustainability and the circular economy.
For more information on our military-certified protective cases, visit nanuk.eu or meet us in person at DSEI - Booth S6-153
NON STANDARD SOCKET SCREW LTD FROM BAR TO BOX TO YOU…
Non Standard Socket Screw Limited is a highly specialized UK manufacturer and stockist of precision fasteners.
With over 5 decades of engineering experience, we have developed a reputation for delivering special and standard fasteners of uncompromising quality. Our focus on technical excellence, paired with an unwavering commitment to customer requirements, has solidified our position as a trusted partner across multiple industries, including defence, automotive, aerospace, nuclear and offshore oil.
Engineering & Manufacturing Excellence
Our manufacturing plant based in the West Midlands has been purposebuilt to produce high-grade fasteners, special-turn parts, and prototypes. We combine traditional engineering principles with modern
production technologies to meet exacting specifications. Key machinery and capabilities include:
• Double Blow Hot Forging Presses: Allows us to form complex, high-strength fasteners and specialized components with tight dimensional tolerances.
• Multi-Axis CNC Turning & Milling: Enables rapid, precise machining of intricate geometries, ensuring high repeatability and consistent quality.
• Centreless Grinding & Thread Rolling: Provides exact dimensional control and surface finishes, close tolerances and Metric, Unified and Imperial thread rolling
• Atmosphere-Controlled Heat Treatment: Performed on-site, giving us complete oversight from raw materials to the final product. This in-house process control underpins our ability to maintain rigorous batch traceability and uniform mechanical properties.
Through these integrated processes, we manage every step of production internally minimizing lead times, and delivering components that align precisely with engineering specifications.
Material Capabilities
We understand that advanced applications demand advanced materials. Our facility is equipped to process:
• Alloy
• Stainless Steel
• Brass
• Duplex
• Titanium
• Exotic Alloys
We select and procure raw materials only from verified European manufacturers, ensuring full mill certification and batch traceability.
Standard Socket Screws & Stock Range
Beyond custom manufacturing, we are a leading supplier of standard socket screws, partnering with ISO 9001-accredited manufacturers worldwide.
As Unbrako’s foremost UK distributor, we stock a comprehensive range of Unbrako products at competitive prices.
We stock the widest range of socket screws in the UK including Metric, Imperial, Unified Threads, Fine pitches, Left Hand Threads, Extra Long Lengths, etc
Combined with our in-house manufacturing capabilities, we offer quick access to both standard items and specialized fasteners, streamlining your supply chain and minimizing downtime.
Quality Focus
From inception, quality has been the cornerstone of Non Standard Socket Screw Limited. We operate under BS EN ISO 9001:2015, integrating continuous improvement principles into every function of the business. Rather than confining quality to a single department, we embed it into every workflow, ensuring:
• Compliance with International Standards: We keep pace with regulations and industry trends, ensuring that our products meet or exceed critical requirements.
• Rigorous Inspection & Testing: Dimensional checks, mechanical property verifications, and material certifications form the backbone of our quality program.
• Exhaustive Traceability: Every fastener can be traced back to its batch and heat-treatment process, offering peace of mind in applications where reliability is paramount.
• These protocols reflect our engineering-driven mentality: data, consistency, and verifiable performance guide every phase, from material sourcing to finished parts.
Markets & Distribution
We supply specialized fasteners to clients throughout the UK, Europe, and beyond. With an extensive stock inventory and efficient logistics, we can fulfil next-day deliveries in the UK for standard items. Our primary markets—automotive, aerospace, defence, and offshore oil—demand reliability and traceability, requirements we are proud to meet or exceed every single day.
Future Outlook
As industry demands advance, Non Standard Socket Screw Limited remains committed to adapting and innovating. We continually invest in the latest machinery, process automation, and staff development to enhance our capabilities.
At Non Standard Socket Screw Limited, we’re committed to delivering fasteners that meet your specific needs with reliability and quality. To learn more about how our expertise can benefit your operations, please contact us.
www.nssocketscrews.com
Non Standard Socket Screws have been supply the Defence industry for over 50 years with the quality, fully traceable standard and special fas t
Here are some of the benefits of using NSSS:
• Over 50 years of manufacturing experience.
• Fully traceable EU Sourced materials.
• ISO 9001:2015.
• In house atmosphere controlled heat treatment plant with reporting.
• Certification including F.A.I.R, 3.1, Raw materials, Plating, ISIR.
• Fasteners to any standard BS, DIN, ISO, ANSI or to Drawing.
• Manufacturing in all materials incl, High grade alloys, A286, Titanium etc.
• From 2mm up to 64mm diameters in all threads, Metric, MJ, Metric Fine, Left hand, UNJF and all Imperial sizes.
• We can manufacture quantities from a handful to many thousands.
The Will-Burt Company is the world’s leading manufacturer of mobile elevation solutions, trusted by defense forces worldwide for over 100 years. Our mechanical mast lineup delivers precision and reliability for critical missions including counter-UAS, missile defense, communications, surveillance, and border security.
Our cable-driven GEROH masts include the heavy-duty KVR locking mast, ideal for surveillance, communications, and antenna systems with guyed deployments. The KVK non-locking mast is designed for shorter, unguyed operations such as missile defense, while the KVL non-locking mast offers a lightweight solution for radio monitoring and light measuring stations. Each mast can be vehicle, shelter, or trailer-mounted for maximum operational 昀exibility.
The Stiletto Series electro-mechanical telescoping mast family features lightweight composite or alloy construction and is engineered for mobile communications, reconnaissance, and surveillance. With low nested height, rapid automatic deployment, and high directional pointing accuracy, Stiletto is the ultimate lightweight solution for MRAP, shelter, and vehicle integrations.
For heavier payloads, Will-Burt’s SPM Spindle Mast delivers unmatched precision and durability. Supporting up to 1,300 lbs (600 kg), the spindle-driven system operates independently of environmental conditions, offering superior performance in batt le昀eld applications such as surveillance, electronic warfare, reconnaissance, and target detection. Specially treated aluminum mast tubes ensure the tightest tolerances and best-in-class stability.
Mechanical power transmission solutions for Defence applications
David Brown Defence have served the global Defence industry from their stateof-the-art manufacturing facility in the UK for more than a century. Delivering critical industry gear systems and complete aftermarket support to land and marine defence partners in an industry where failure is not an option.
Strong Partnership
David Brown Defence has been an integral part of the defence industry for more than 100 years. Always at the forefront of new technologies, we have supplied more than 10,000 gear systems to a range of land and marine applications globally, in industries where failure is not an option.
Land Defence
David Brown Defence is internationally recognised as one of the most demonstrated and innovative suppliers of power transmission systems for land defence applications. With an extensive installed base and a track record of reliability, product upgrade and life extension, David Brown Defence delivers advanced gear system design for the most demanding military applications.
Our range of land defence products include:
TN15E+
Tracked Vehicle Transmission
The TN15E+ is the latest generation in a family of cross drive transmissions with integral steering system, suitable for tracked armoured personnel carriers and armoured fighting vehicles up to 235bhp.
The introduction of dieselisation and new materials throughout the transmission has helped in increasing the original TN15P from 195bhp up to 235bhp, with vehicle weight increased from 9 tonnes to 13 tonnes.
T300E Tracked Vehicle Transmission
The T300E is the latest generation in a family of cross drive transmissions with integral steering system, suitable for tracked armoured personnel carriers and armoured fighting vehicles up to 360bhp. The introduction of new materials throughout the transmission has enabled the power rating to be increased to 360bhp.
TN54E Tracked Vehicle Transmission
The TN54E fully automatic transmission designed and manufactured by David Brown Defence is installed in the Challenger 2 main battle tank and CRAARV recovery vehicle. It is also installed in the Trojan/Titan engineering vehicles in the TN54ETS designation.
TN54E is within the Challenger 2 family currently in service with the Royal Army of Oman. The transmission features six forward and two reverse gears at a rating of 1200bhp with an option to increase the power to 1500bhp.
Final Drive
The Final Drive is the last transmission unit in a vehicle drivetrain, used to match powerpack performance characteristics with the automotive mobility requirements of the vehicle. Directly hull mounted, these units also provide the structural interfaces for other critical components such as the track sprocket carrier and vehicle braking mechanisms.
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 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.
ed seating
wo versions:
• 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.
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
Teledyne FLIR
How to Use
Automated Synthetic Data Generation in AI Model Development for Object
Detection.
Introduction
The concept of operations (CONOPS) for aerial platforms has fundamentally changed. Radio frequency (RF) techniques can now effectively jam radio communications and global navigation satellite system (GNSS) navigation systems.
This has created a need for fully autonomous platforms with AI perception that rely on passive technologies to operate in today’s contested battlefield and achieve the intended tactical results.
While generalized object detectors may be adequate for many situational awareness applications, other defense applications require fine-grained classification of targets and aim-points. Today, a chasm exists in the data needed to train these AI perception models. Multi-spectral image data are siloed across military, government departments, research organizations, and defense contractors, each with different policies regarding access for commercialization. Furthermore, the number of military targets is large and growing, and addressing issues such as camouflage, spoofing techniques, and environmental conditions requires rapid data generation and model training in days, rather than weeks or months. In response to this need, Teledyne has developed an automated synthetic data generation and model training process.
Synthetic Data and AI Model Generation
For applications such as autonomous driving, developers typically have access to large training libraries, but for enterprises servicing military technology companies, there are no or limited training datasets, resulting in an acute need for data on targets. While real data is preferred for higher precision classifiers, synthetic data is a practical way to augment existing real datasets or provide data for fine-grain classifiers where no measured (real) data is available.
Teledyne FLIR OEM’s AIMMGen™ (AI Modeling and Model Generation) is a toolchain that combines large-scale automated data generation, intelligent data retrieval, and AI model optimization into a single pipeline designed to meet the needs of Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) algorithm developers. It enables the rapid generation of synthetic data for real-world scenarios, including target object types, positions, orientations, sensor modalities, configurations, trajectories, and environmental states. This toolchain can generate millions of labeled images in days rather than the weeks or months typically required for data collection, without the expense of field data collection and costly labeling services.
AIMMGen automatically generates detailed label information for all generated data, and stores collection metadata with each image set. To support model training and validation across different use cases, the metadata for each image and target is stored in a data lake for rapid curation and construction of datasets. The metadata includes collection parameters, target information, and image parameters. With this information,
customized datasets can be curated and prepared for training. Rapid automated optimization of AI models across various use cases and tasks through cloud-scale training and optimization is then enabled by AIMMGen’s extensible and model-agnostic training framework.
Step 1: AIMMGen Synthetic Data Generation Process
The first stage of the AIMMGen process is data generation, which begins with specifications for location types, sensor resolution, target object types, imaging conditions, sensor configurations, and the desired number of images. Randomized combinations of
these specifications are created until the total number of images meets or exceeds the desired number. The data generation pipeline engages a geo-specific simulation engine that includes accurate terrain for the globe, sets the environment conditions, inserts targets sampled from over 20,000 unique models, and begins collecting data. Ground truth is automatically generated as metadata and stored alongside target metadata.
Image metadata, including the final URI of the image location and target metadata, are captured and stored in an Elasticsearch database. These metadata are stored in separate indexes but linked through unique identifiers, enabling users to visualize, filter, and search over data subsets. Once the data has been generated,
Figure 1. Synthetic Training Data is Generated in Minutes and at Low Cost
Figure 2. Automatic Training and Optimization
it can be curated through visualization tools to gain insight and build datasets for specific experiments.
Step 2: AIMMGen Model Training and Optimization
The second stage of the AIMMGen process is automated model training and optimization. Users specify datasets, desired model performance characteristics, and optimization metrics. AIMMGen orchestrates a cluster of AI training nodes to train, evaluate, and produce high-quality models optimized against baseline and user-specified metrics. The model training framework is agnostic to the specifics of the model architecture and use case, enabling users to create custom data pipelines and model architectures easily within the AIMMGen framework. Output models are tracked and stored in a database for traceability and reproducibility.
Baseline Performance Metrics for AI Perception Model Optimization
In AI perception model development, the following metrics are crucial for evaluating how well the model identifies and classifies objects or instances.
Precision measures the accuracy of the positive predictions made by the model. It is important when the cost of false positives is high. In military applications, misidentifying a non-threat as a threat could lead to unnecessary actions.
Recall, also known as sensitivity or true positive rate, measures the model's ability to identify all relevant instances. This is critical when missing a positive instance has severe consequences, such as the danger of failing to detect an actual threat.
F1-Score provides a balanced view of the model's performance, ensuring that both precision and recall are considered. This is a good measure of the model's overall performance when dealing with imbalanced datasets and is essential for developing robust perception systems.
F1 - Score = 2 x (Precision * Recall)/(Precision + Recall)
AIMMGen Example Applications and Results
The AIMMGen toolchain has been validated across multiple application and sensor domains, demonstrating its ability to improve air-to-ground detection models, fine-grain classifiers for maritime domain, and more.
AIMMGen has been shown to increase the performance of detection models in an air-to-ground scenarios. Teledyne FLIR OEM performed a limited experiment to add synthetic electrooptical (EO) and longwave infrared (LWIR) data to an object detection model training dataset alongside the original measured EO and IR data. The performance was tested with small changes to the training scheme to incorporate the synthetic data. The
AIMMGen models achieved a significant improvement in recall. This is demonstrated in the overall improvement in the F1-score.
AIMMGen supports the generation of AI models with little to no real training data as shown in a midwave infrared (MWIR) maritime example. A fine-grained maritime object identifier requires significant, expensive MWIR data with highly detailed labels for vessel type. With limited real data it is only possible to train models to distinguish “small vessel” from “large vessel.” In contrast, with AIMMGen, a model was produced capable of classifying specific vessel subtypes (Figure 3). This was based exclusively on synthetic data. Performance was validated across multiple real-world collects including fresh water and littoral environments, demonstrating the robustness of a synthetic-only model.
Summary
The challenges of creating large, diverse training datasets for both the EO and IR spectrum and highly specialized applications can be addressed with synthetic imagery. Continuous refinement of synthetic imagery quality and rigorous testing ensure continuous improvement in perception system performance. AIMMGen represents a significant advancement in the field of synthetic data generation and model training, providing a robust solution for developing high-performance AI models in military applications.
Please refer to www.flir.com/prism for more information.
Table 1. AIMMGen Models Compared to Real-Only Trained Models
Figure 3: Fine-Grained Identification in MWIR of Maritime Vessels Using
There’s nothing Artificial about our Intelligence.
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Since 1961, Greenray Industries has been a preferred provider of precision, high performance reference sources to many of the world’s leading military, defense and industrial manufacturers. With a range of critical design innovations that enhance product performance and reliability, our quartz crystal oscillators help engineers realize their unique frequency control solutions. On the ground, in the air – and beyond.
ENHANCING DISASTER RESPONSE WITH THE EXTREMV:
A Strategic Asset for Crisis Management
In an era marked by escalating natural disasters and humanitarian crises, the imperative for rapid, reliable, and versatile response mechanisms has never been more critical.
Timely and effective first-response operations are essential to mitigate the impact on affected communities. Traditional vehicles often fall short in reaching isolated or challenging terrains, underscoring the need for specialised solutions.
ST Engineering: Pioneering Innovation in Crisis Response
ST Engineering, a global leader in technology, defence, and engineering, leverages its extensive military expertise to develop expertise to develop solutions that address the complexities of modern disaster response. The ExtremV, a cutting-edge amphibious tracked vehicle, exemplifies
this commitment. Drawing from the proven Bronco All Terrain Tracked Carrier lineage, the ExtremV is engineered to perform in the most demanding environments, ensuring that first responders are equipped with reliable, field-tested tools to execute rescue missions effectively.
Unmatched Terrain Accessibility
The ExtremV is designed to operate across more than 80% of the world's most challenging terrains, including floodwaters, soft ground, and rugged landscapes. Its amphibious capabilities, low ground pressure, and differential lock system enable it to navigate slippery slopes and soft grounds such as snow or swamp land. With an operational temperature range from -46°C to 49°C, the ExtremV ensures consistent performance in extreme climates, providing last-mile access where standard vehicles cannot reach.
Versatility in Mission Execution
With a payload capacity of 4 to 6 tonnes, the ExtremV's modular design allows for rapid reconfiguration to meet diverse mission requirements. Its rear cabin can be easily swapped with various modules, including personnel transport, logistics, firefighting, and medical evacuation units,
in under 30 minutes. The vehicle's spacious rear cabin accommodates up to 10 personnel, while its air suspension seats and configurable interior enhance crew comfort during extended operations. Safety features such as roll-over protection and a 270-degree field of vision windscreen ensure optimal visibility and security for the crew.
Proven Performance in Real-World Disasters
The ExtremV vehicle has demonstrated its exceptional capabilities in various disaster response operations worldwide. In Japan's Kyushu region during the 2016 landslides and floods, the ExtremV facilitated the transport of relief supplies and the evacuation of individuals from areas isolated by debris and rising water. Similarly, in the Philippines during the aftermath of Tropical Storm Mawar in 2023, the ExtremV played a crucial role in evacuations and supply deliveries amid severe flooding. In Mexico, following Hurricane Otis in 2023, the ExtremV operated in debris-filled zones, supporting critical rescue and relief operations where traditional vehicles would have struggled. Most recently, in 2024, the ExtremV navigated submerged roads and soft terrains in Southern Thailand, delivering essential supplies and evacuating residents from otherwise unreachable last-mile zones.
Strategic Advantage for Procurement Decision-Makers
For procurement teams and decision-makers in disaster management, the ExtremV offers a strategic advantage by providing a versatile, reliable, and field-tested solution that enhances operational efficiency and effectiveness. Its adaptability across various mission profiles, combined with proven performance in real-world scenarios, makes it an invaluable asset in the arsenal of any disaster response operation. As the global landscape continues to face unpredictable and intense disasters, equipping response teams with the ExtremV ensures that they are prepared to act swiftly and decisively, safeguarding lives and communities in times of crisis.
To explore how the ExtremV can integrate into your disaster response strategy, contact ST Engineering for a comprehensive consultation.
FIVE MILITARY ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGIES POWERING TODAY’S CONSUMER INNOVATIONS
Modern consumer technologies owe much of their advancement to innovations first developed for military use.
From ruggedized electronics to high-performance sensors, the defense sector has long been a proving ground for tools that eventually find new life in civilian applications. What begins as mission-critical gear for soldiers or intelligence operations often transforms into everyday devices for health, safety, communication, and recreation. This article explores five such military-originated electronic technologies that are now reshaping the consumer landscape.
Exoskeletons and prosthetic integration
The military pioneered early exoskeleton-assist systems to be worn by dismounted soldiers, enhancing their ability to carry heavy loads and increasing their mobility on foot. These devices initially featured hybrid limbs combining human and mechanical components. Integrated electronics were key to these systems, enabling pressure detection and initiating hydraulic responses in the knee joint.
Over time, this technology evolved into fully functional humanoid robotic
systems for military use. A significant offshoot of this development has been its application in medical rehabilitation—particularly for military accident amputees—and eventually in civilian healthcare settings.
Biomedical sensors in prosthetics
Biomedical sensors have advanced significantly, evolving from military exoskeleton systems to everyday medical applications. Today’s prosthetic hands incorporate pressure pads and touch sensors, offering users enhanced control and feedback. Sophisticated motion-sensing modules can be mounted on an amputee’s head, wirelessly transmitting Bluetooth signals to prosthetic limbs to initiate movement.
These biosignals are incredibly small and rely on nano-sized cables and connectors to facilitate board-to-board communication and distribute low-power battery energy to the motors operating joints like wrists, knees, and feet.
FLIR imaging and its expanding reach
Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) imaging was originally developed to enhance night operations for military personnel. These imaging systems, along with binoculars and surveillance cameras, were once exclusive to the defense sector. Mounted frequently on the front nose of helicopters, FLIR modules could detect heat signatures in complete darkness.
Today, night vision has transitioned into the commercial world. Hobbyists, nature watchers, filmmakers, law enforcement, and
emergency responders all benefit from night vision devices. Furthermore, FLIR technology is now being utilized in the medical field, revolutionizing procedures with endoscopes and inner-body imaging systems that reduce surgical invasiveness and improve diagnostic accuracy.
From combat to commercial: the evolution of drones
Originally, drones and UAVs were conceived as flying targets to improve naval gunnery accuracy in the post-Kamikaze era of WWII. Early versions were maneuvered using analog frequency signal boxes while naval crews practiced intercepting them mid-air. Cameras were first integrated during the Vietnam War, where aerial visibility was limited on the ground.
Fast-forward to today, and drones are omnipresent across sectors. They capture stunning landscape photos, support crowd management, monitor borders, and even conduct industrial inspections. Many are GPS-enabled for real-time positional awareness and map-based navigation. Lightweight connectors and robust electronic components are crucial for enduring the vibration and shock these drones experience.
Civilian drone development was further fueled when the FAA lifted digital transmission restrictions, paving the way for compact, radiocontrolled aircraft for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Software Defined Radio (SDR): from battlefield to broadband
Initially engineered for advanced military applications like the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS), Software Defined Radio (SDR) has since permeated both specialized defense and commercial domains. It's now integral to diverse operations—from space station communications to public safety radio scanners.
Emergency services such as police, fire departments, and forest firefighting teams use SDR to coordinate ground and aerial efforts. The technology also underpins portable radio astronomy for satellite tracking and supports global cybersecurity communications infrastructures.
Military innovation continues to be a powerful catalyst for progress across numerous civilian industries. Technologies once designed for the battlefield—from exoskeletons to night vision, drones, biomedical sensors, and software-defined radios—now enhance our daily lives in ways we often take for granted. As defense research pushes the limits of electronic capability, we can expect even more transformative breakthroughs to emerge, bridging the gap between military rigor and consumer convenience.
The ComEth4690e is a high performance ruggedized dual plane 3U VPX Layer 2/3 Ethernet switch, developed in alignment with the SOSATM (Sensor Open Systems Architecture) Technical Standard.
Description
The ComEth4690e integrates two sets of independent layer 2 (Ethernet) and layer 3 switches & control processors to support physically separated Control and Data Planes for highly secured 3U VPX systems.
These two Ethernet packet processors, managed by ARM corebased processors, offer remarkable switching capabilities with 1G, 10G, 25G, 40G and 100G Ethernet configurations.
The ComEth4690e is available as a conduction-cooled type 1
plug-in unit compliant with the VITA 48.2 standard (version without front panel optical ports).
It includes a secondary side cover and supports 2 Level Maintenance (2LM) environments.
This high-performance switch can be configured remotely via the Switchware web interface, SNMP or CLI. Switchware is a comprehensive switch management stack running on the ComEth4690e on-board processor and supports a rich set of Layer 2/3 features controlled through the Graphical User Interface (GUI), Command Line Interface (CLI) and SNMP (v2c or v3). The ComEth4690e also supports VPX System Management in compliance with VITA 46.11 and based on the Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI v1.5) for sensor management (temperature, voltage, current), inventory management, system configuration, recovery and diagnostic management.
Each port being splittable into 4 * 1000BASE-SX or 4 * 10/25GBASE-SR ports
Optical ports are available through a single MPO (Multiple-Fiber Push-On/Pull-Off) connector.
• 1 * optional optical port supporting 10/25GBASE-SR [Front Panel]
The optical port is available through the LC connector.
Assuring Trust in Autonomy:
The Role of High-Integrity Software in Military Unmanned Systems.
Introduction
In an era where autonomy is reshaping the modern battlespace, unmanned systems and drones are becoming indispensable assets for defence forces worldwide. Whether conducting surveillance, supporting logistics, or executing precision missions, these platforms rely fundamentally on software to operate safely, securely, and reliably. As autonomy increases, so does the criticality of ensuring that software behaves predictably under all conditions, and that it can be trusted to make or support decisions in high-stakes scenarios.
This article explores the pivotal role of high-integrity software in enabling resilient, certifiable, and mission-assured unmanned systems. It outlines the principles and practices required to meet the demanding requirements of military and defence applications.
The Strategic Role of Software in Military Autonomy
From surveillance drones operating in contested airspace to autonomous ground vehicles navigating complex terrain, the effectiveness of unmanned systems hinges on their ability to operate with precision, resilience, and minimal human intervention. At the heart of this capability lies software. It is software that enables situational awareness, real-time decision-making, secure communications, and adaptive mission behaviour. In increasingly complex threat environments, software determines how a system performs and whether it can be trusted to perform at all. Moreover, as military autonomy evolves beyond remote control toward fully autonomous and cooperative operation (such as drone swarms or multi-domain mission orchestration), the demands placed on software in terms of correctness, predictability, and robustness are showing accelerated growth.
High-integrity software is, therefore, not a technical luxury but a strategic necessity. Ensuring the trustworthiness of that software is fundamental to operational success and national defence readiness.
What is High-Integrity Software?
High-integrity software refers to systems engineered to meet exceptionally stringent requirements for reliability, safety, security, and predictability. Failure is not an option for unmanned and autonomous systems operating in defence environments; even minor defects can lead to mission degradation, collateral damage, or catastrophic loss. Highintegrity software is characterised by its ability to perform its intended functions correctly and consistently, even under adverse conditions. This includes rigorous handling of faults, resilience to cyber threats, and the capacity to operate within tightly defined real-time constraints. Importantly, it must also be verifiable. This means its behaviour must be demonstrably correct with respect to its specification, enabling it to meet formal certification and assurance requirements. In essence, high-integrity software embodies trustworthiness by design. It is not just software that works; it is software that can be relied upon to work correctly and securely, every time.
Formal Verification and the Elimination of Software Defects
In the development of high-integrity software, traditional testing alone is insufficient to provide the level of assurance required for military unmanned systems. Testing can reveal the presence of defects but can never prove their absence. Formal verification addresses this limitation by enabling developers to mathematically prove that software behaves as intended, under all possible inputs and execution paths. Techniques such as formal specification, model checking, theorem proving, and
static analysis offer the ability to reason about program correctness properties with mathematical precision. Languages and toolsets designed with verification in mind, such as SPARK, facilitate this process by allowing properties like functional correctness, data integrity, absence of runtime errors, and information flow security to be proven at compile time. Exploiting continued improvements in proof technology and hardware performance, formal methods are a practical element in an organisation’s software development and verification infrastructure.
For defence applications, incorporating formal methods not only enhances confidence in software behaviour but also provides a justifiable assurance case for certification and operational deployment.
Lifecycle Assurance and Secure Supply Chains
High-integrity software in military unmanned systems must remain trustworthy not only at initial deployment but throughout its entire operational lifespan, which may span decades. This long-term assurance presents unique challenges, especially in the face of evolving threats, hardware obsolescence, and the need for updates or re-certification. Maintaining software integrity over time requires rigorous configuration management, robust version control, and clearly traceable change histories.
The software supply chain itself must also be subject to scrutiny. With increasing reliance on third-party components, external libraries, and complex toolchains, the provenance and integrity of every software element become critical. Organisations must adopt practices such as software bill of materials (SBOM) tracking, reproducible builds, and toolchain qualification to mitigate the risk of compromised dependencies or malicious insertions. Ultimately, lifecycle assurance is not a
one-time activity, but a sustained commitment, one that ensures military systems remain secure, resilient, and certifiable throughout their operational use.
Closing Thoughts
As military capabilities increasingly depend on autonomous and software-driven platforms, it is imperative to recognise highintegrity software not merely as a technical deliverable, but as a strategic asset. The reliability, safety, and security of defence operations now rest as much on code quality as they do on hardware performance or tactical planning. Investment in rigorous software engineering practices, including formal verification, secure development pipelines, and lifecycle assurance, directly translates into operational readiness and mission success. Moreover, nations and organisations that prioritise software trustworthiness will be better positioned to adopt emerging technologies with confidence.
In this context, high-integrity software is not just about compliance or risk mitigation; it is about enabling innovation while safeguarding control. As the defence sector moves towards greater autonomy and digital transformation, the imperative is clear: trusted software must be engineered with the same discipline and foresight as any other mission-critical capability.
Wiltshire manufacturer of ruggedised cases ACHIEVES A KING’S AWARD FOR ENTERPRISE
Leafield Cases, a subsidiary of Leafield Environmental, has been honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise for its excellence in International Trade.
Announced on Tuesday 6 May 2025, Leafield is one of 197 organisations nationally to be recognised with the prestigious award.
Leafield Environmental was founded in 2010 and is based in Corsham, Wiltshire. The company designs and manufactures premium plastic products including custom, ruggedised cases. A subsidiary of the Leafield Group, Leafield Cases launched in 2014 and has since become established as innovators in custom case solutions within a range of domestic and international markets, from aerospace and defence to areas of specialised industrial technology.
The Award programme, now in its 59th year, is the most prestigious business award in the country, with successful businesses able to use the esteemed King’s Awards Emblem for the next five years.
Managing Director, Philip Maddox, says:
We are delighted to have achieved a King’s Award for Enterprise. Leafield Environmental’s products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality by dedicated teams at our factory in Corsham, Wiltshire, and sold to the world – all through the hard work of people
who live locally and have worked at the company for many years.
It’s especially exciting to be recognised for our excellence in international trade. Despite a challenging manufacturing landscape, Leafield’s overseas sales have grown by 63% over three years and now make up almost half of our total sales.
I look forward to the opportunities the King’s Award will offer in expanding the reach of our quality, sustainable products to markets across the globe.
The King’s Awards for Enterprise, previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, were renamed in 2023 to reflect His Majesty The King’s
desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II’s by recognising outstanding UK businesses.
Leafield Cases is a market-leading UK designer, manufacturer, and supplier of tough, ruggedised cases for use in the harshest environments.
Whether it’s vibration attenuation or shock and impact protection required, our innovative in-house design team can customise every aspect of the Aegis protective system to an end user specification.
For more information about Leafield Cases’ products, call 01225 816504, email cases@leafieldenv.com or visit
www.leafieldcases.com
When reliability is everything
cutting edge design and materials technology made in the uk
RF sensor engineered to deliver real-time signals intelligence, high-speed I/Q data streaming, and long-duration recording for forensic signals analysis.
• 9KHz to 18GHz intelligent sensor
• Full 100MHz I/Q recording to an in-built SSD
• Full 100 MHz I/Q streaming over 10GigE
• 3x faster processing
• Improved POI and enhanced geolocation results
• Built for SIGINT, COMINT, ISR, ISTAR, and ESM missions
HOW GEOLOCATING TRANSMITTERS HELPS WHEN ASSESSING AN ENEMY ORBAT
This article presents a fictional simulation scenario on the eastern edge of Europe in Bulgaria. It shows how RF sensor deployments and the geolocation of red force transmissions can help understand an enemy ORBAT and gather enhanced intelligence for battlefield awareness.
An Order of Battle (ORBAT) is a structured understanding of the composition and capabilities of any formation. It breaks down the organization, equipment, command structure, and geographical distribution of military units. Assessing an enemy ORBAT is a structured and essential part of an intelligence analysis to estimate enemy capabilities, predict tactics, and plan countermeasures.
When assessing an ORBAT, planners and intelligence analysts will likely use a layered approach using multiple sources of intelligence to help strengthen the accuracy and reliability of the intelligence picture.
A SIGINT gathering component of an ORBAT could involve deploying manned and unmanned assets to detect radio communications, radar signals, and other electronic emissions.
Geolocating transmitters using RFeye Site can help to identify and determine:
• The command structure
• Combat and support elements
• Equipment and capabilities
• Command & Control relationships
• Geographical distribution
BENEFITS OF ORBAT MAPPING ON A TACTICAL LEVEL
Building an ORBAT picture on a strategic level provides local commanders with a possible information advantage by understanding an adversary’s potential capabilities and intentions. However, ORBATs on company or squadron level provide these tactical formations with an organic capability, which can shorten command and control, making it more effective, leading to faster and more informed decisions resulting in mission success.
For example, discovering an enemy’s location by geolocating their RF emissions will allow the unit to conduct its own targeting cycle, ultimately increasing its agency.
SCENARIO: RF SENSOR DEPLOYMENT FOR MAPPING AN ORBAT
Mission objective
Deploy RF sensors (RFeye Nodes) and other spectrum monitoring assets (RFeye Arrays) to find, fix, and then map the enemy force ORBAT, identify C2 positions, and provide intelligence for targeting, maneuver planning, and electronic warfare (EW).
WATCH THE SIMULATION
1. Passive sensors detect signals of interest
In this scenario the passive sensors start detecting multiple signals of interest across different frequency bands that are known to be used by enemy communications devices.
• 60–70 MHz (VHF) – Assessed to be a MIL-spec tactical radios used by infantry
• Sub-350 MHz – In this scenario, devices transmitting on this frequency are associated with MANET technology, likely battlefield data links
• S-Band (2-4 GHz) – High-powered bursts detected, potentially indicating that SatCom is being used for command links or for air defense coordination
Image 1: Three spikes on the spectrum relate to the above transmissions
RF intelligence: These frequency bands align with known enemy transmissions and suggest a structured command and maneuver structure as they could belong to three types of communication devices used by a battlegroup.
2. Geolocate the signals of interest
To geolocate each transmission, operators use a combination of Angle of Arrival (AoA) and Time Difference of Arrival (TDoA), advanced geolocation techniques.
Once a transmission is geolocated, a marker can be placed on the map. Using different colors can help differentiate between different frequencies.
(indicated by
The
shows the probability of the signal’s location. Note that TDoA is the more accurate method in this example
ORBAT BASED ON GEOLOCATING RF TRANSMISSIONS
Platoons (x9): Roughly in triangle formations (possibly indicating defensive positions) and using MANET technology for battlefield awareness.
Company command (x3): Each company command manages three platoons and is connected to the other company command via VHF tactical radios. Command elements are co-located in buildings, which can be seen by zooming in on the geolocated signals.
RF intelligence: The layout of these markers provides a clear visual representation of enemy force disposition, highlighting three structured company formations, command links, and a rear communication relay.
3. SIGINT
Analyzing the pattern formed by all the geolocated RF transmissions can provide insight into the formations’ structure and behavior.
Based on the geographical laydown, and cross-referenced against known uses for those frequencies, the image above likely shows three companies (red, blue, yellow). Each company comprises three platoons using MANET technology. The green dots located roughly in the center of each company are assessed to be the company HQ element: MILspec tactical radios used to send critical communications back to the green dot at the rear of the formation— potentially the battlegroup’s HQ.
The orange in the north-east of the image is an S-Band transmission—likely a SatCom link connecting this potential battlegroup with higher-echelon command structures.
Battlegroup HQ: Identified at the rear of the formation.
Brigade-level command: Positioned at the rear of the formation and likely connected to brigade-level C2 via S-band SatCom.
Gaining an even more strengthened understanding of the ORBAT could be achieved by overlaying SIGINT with other sources of intelligence, such as satellite imagery. This would provide further context and validate the geolocated signals.
CONCLUSION
RF intelligence gathered from this simulation provides battlegroup commanders with critical situational intelligence, including enemy formation, number, and location. It reduces their dependence on brigade or nationallevel assets, thereby shortening C2, and speeding up company and platoons’ reaction times.
Essentially, intelligence gathered provides an information advantage that could be advantageous as either part of a targeting cycle or the Observe, Orient, Decide, Act (OODA) loop—depending on the mission’s objectives.
Image 2: DF and TDoA of a tactical radio
a green dot).
heatmap
Image 4: Pattern of geolocated transmissions on a satellite view map
Image 5: Command elements are co-located in buildings
Image 3: As additional transmissions are detected and markers added, the operator can build a map of enemy unit formations and command structures
Delight as Cradley Heath company wins King's Award for Enterprise
The team at RunFlat International in Cradley Heath have told of their delight at being honoured with the King's Award for Enterprise.
The company, a leading producer of run flat tyre technology which helps to keep military personnel and dignitaries safe across the world, has been honoured in the international trade category of the awards, it was announced today (Tuesday May 6).
It is one of 12 companies in the West Midlands awarded the prestigious accolade - the highest official UK award for British businesses.
Tom Westley, chief operating officer at RunFlat International, part of the long-running Westley Group, said:
"It's a great honour for us. We've been working hard on building our business and winning new customers across the world. It's recognition of that hard work and the quality of our products."
The family run firm, which traces its business roots back to 1800, employs 55 people at its two bases in Cradley Heath - in Gawne Lane, which opened in 1999, and on the Waterfall Lane Trading Estate, which opened in 2024.
RunFlat International originates from the Westley Group, a leading non-ferrous foundry and engineering group since the beginning of the 19th century. In the 1960s Westley Plastics was created to develop polymer technologies to replace heavier, more expensive and less wear-resistant metal products and then in 2001 RunFlat was established, using the leading edge polymer technology of Westley Plastics to exclusively develop run-flat tyre insert systems.
Company chairman Tom Westley, aged 73, who has been involved in the family business since the 1970s, said he still enjoys being involved with the firm and he said of the honour:
"I think it's amazing. I'm really proud - particularly with 200 years of continuous history. We've kept ourselves very relevant to what's going on in the world."
Eric Cartelet, RunFlat International's CEO, explained more about the product:
"Our systems enable a vehicle to keep going if a tyre is deflated. We make everything from the design stage to the fitting on the vehicle itself. We're talking military and heavy vehicles. It's pretty critical in the wars that are occurring in the world.
"If the vehicle gets shot at with our system it will keep on going and escape from danger. We do the same with VIP vehicles. It's the same principle - just different sizes and slightly different designs. We listen to what our customers want and we make exactly the wheel that's required along with the specific run-flat that will go long distances, short distances - depending on what's required."
He said of the award:
"It's great. We have only been in existence for 25 years as RunFlat International alone. We have gone a long way, now we're recognised all around the world.
"This is the pinnacle - it's recognition that we're growing around the world. We're delighted, absolutely delighted."
The team say the success of their product is down to being easier to fit and longer lasting than those produced by their competitors.
Always looking to the future, the company now has plans to double production capacity at its Gawne Lane plant in 2025. www.runflatinternational.com
SMITHS INTERCONNECT LAUNCHES NEW HIGH SPEED DATA TRANSMISSION MODULES
electronic components, subsystems, microwave, optical and radio frequency products, announced today the extension of its high density modular and minimodular connectors ranges with the addition of two new types of data transmission modules.
Smiths Interconnect’s modular and minimodular connectors are easy to assemble, based on the principle of building blocks with a system composed of two elements: modules and frames. Modules of various
now on, data contact technologies into custom arrangements within a single connector frame.
The need for Gigabit data transmission with lower latency is growing in industrial, military and aerospace applications. While all users ask for reliable Ethernet solutions, the applications also require reduced crosstalk for high reliability, operate in harsh environmental conditions with high vibration, mechanical shock and hundred thousand mating cycles. The requirements of these differ in terms of protocols, environmental conditions, certifications and standards.
Standards organisations recognised a need to address the harsh environment that can cause intermittent network. Poor connection can
lead to intermittent packet loss: Ethernet connection is sensitive to delays caused by dropped or damaged data frames (packets) as connectors experience flexing from cables, vibration, tempertaure changes leading to contraction and expansion. These problems are intermittent and a result not picked up by continuity test because such a test find open connections and not poor connections. Also, Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) can cause intermittent packet loss: even if one bit of ethernet packet is damaged by the MI, a frame error will be created that causes the entire packet to be rejected by their device. If several packets are damaged in a row, their machine could not function.
Mark Kelleher, Connectors BU Director at Smiths Interconnect, said:
“Our new Cat5e and Cat6A data transmission modules in accordance to IEEE 802.3 combine the proven technical characteristics of the hyperboloid contact with the use of high-quality and compliant insulator material - i.e. the polycarbonate family - to offer industry compliance and high performance”.
The electrical performance of these modules is optimized through low insertion loss, controlled impedance, and high return loss characteristics. These factors contribute to efficient signal transmission with minimal attenuation and reflection, reducing data errors and ensuring high-speed communication. Additionally, the use of high-quality conductors and advanced shielding techniques enhances resistance to electromagnetic interference (EMI), further stabilizing data transmission. By offering a high insulation resistance and low dielectric constant, the material supports consistent signal
propagation and prevents unwanted capacitance effects. Moreover, its thermal and mechanical stability ensures long-term reliability, even in demanding environmental conditions.
Compared to existing commercial solutions, Smiths Interconnect Cat5e and Cat6A data transmission modules surpass various limitations, particularly in terms of operating temperature range and durability over multiple mating cycles.
They are designed to withstand higher +125°C and lower temperature -55°C extremes, ensuring reliable performance in harsh environments where standard commercial solutions may fail due to material
Additionally, they are engineered for an extended number of mating cycles (up to 100,000), utilizing high-quality contact materials and advanced surface treatments that resist wear, oxidation, and contact degradation. This enhanced durability ensures stable electrical performance over repeated connections and disconnections, reducing maintenance requirements and improving the overall lifespan of the product.
Both new solutions can be used in the standard versions of the modular and minimodular series as well as in those compliant to EN45545 requirements for fire safety, and offer the following distinctive technical features and benefits:
• Hyperboloid contact technology utilizing high-quality contact materials and advanced surface treatments that resist wear, oxidation, and contact degradation. This enhanced durability ensures stable electrical performance over repeated connections and disconnections.
• 100,000 mating cycles as a connector: the extended life of the connector in applications like test & measurement, guarantees reduced cost of maintenance through spares resulting in higher MTBF (meantime before failure).
• High-quality insulator material: high-quality insulator material plays a crucial role in maintaining dielectric properties, reducing signal degradation, and ensuring minimal crosstalk between conductors. This results in reliable performance through consistent signal propagation and unwanted
through thermal and mechanical stability, even in demanding environmental conditions.
• Snap-in contacts: quick installation with simple assembly steps with no special tools for all mounting arrangement e.g. panel, float for blind mating. This results in reduced operator's time to assemble parts and increased productivity.
As a result, Smiths Interconnect Cat5e and Cat6A modules offer significantly greater robustness and longevity compared to other solutions available in the marketplace, providing a reliable, cost-
Finally in parallel with the introduction of the new Cat5e and Cat6A modules, Smiths Interconnect proudly launches the new online configurator for the fully integrated modular L series.
Thanks to the advanced configuration system, the user can select and customize the connector to meet the exact requirements with off-theshelf components and shortened lead times. The frames range from a basic frame with just 2 side rails and 2 end caps, to more complex versions with jackscrews, back shells, and cable clamps. It comes with 12 frame types (each of these with lengths up to 30 units), 37 module types split into 5 contact types (signal, power, coaxial, data
(considering male/female and gold plating thickness) giving the possibility to have an infinite number of combinations.
The configurator allows to download 3D and 2D drawings of the product in different file formats and a datasheet for each product that includes the most important technical characteristics in a 2-page document.
New Expansion of our Cable Harness Production Capacity
The expansion of our cable harness capacity at the Tunisian site allows Smiths Interconnect to become a one-stop-shop for our customers, reducing their supply chain. By improving our cable harness and assembly capability we can o昀er complete connectivity solutions of tested cabled connectors eliminating a double procurement process. Our full manufacturing process includes:
• Cutting and stripping
• Crimping
• Soldering
• Overmoulding
• Ink printing for marking
• Quality testing and inspection
We specialize in manufacturing and testing cabling for signal, data transmission, hybrid, armoured and power, as well as coaxial, twinax, triax, and quadrax, Mil-Spec and D-sub connectors for aerospace, defence, transportation, and industrial applications.
LEGACY IN ACTION
The enduring role of MIL-STD-1553B
For nearly 50 years, MIL-STD-1553B has quietly powered mission-critical communications across defense and aerospace platforms.
Known for its unrivaled reliability and precision, this legacy standard remains essential even as next-gen systems emerge. Here, Jamal Hagi, RF engineer at connector specialist PEI-Genesis, explains how MIL-STD1553B continues to evolve, supporting today’s advanced technologies without compromising the robustness trusted by militaries and space agencies worldwide.
MIL-STD-1553B is a time-division multiplexing (TDM) data bus standard, first adopted by the U.S. Department of Defense in the early 1970s and initially used on the F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jet. It soon became a de facto standard across military aircraft, ground vehicles, and maritime vessels and has since been adopted by all branches of the U.S. military, NATO, and NASA. Increasingly, it’s also finding applications in commercial aerospace and industrial environments.
A legacy of reliability
Operating at 1 Mbps, the 1553B bus employs a dual-redundant architecture, ensuring data integrity and continuity even in the event of a failure. Its low-frequency transmission, below 500 MHz, and two signal paths—a primary and a backup—provide a critical layer of reliability. The
standard supports up to 31 remote terminals, including flight control systems, mission computers, and weapons systems, enabling synchronized and secure data exchange.
One of the key technical advantages of MIL-STD-1553B is its deterministic communication protocol. Unlike Ethernet-based systems, where packet delivery times can vary, the 1553B standard guarantees message delivery within a defined time frame. This predictability is essential in applications where timing precision and low-latency response directly impact mission success.
Moreover, the system topology includes not only the remote terminals (RTs) but also a Bus Controller (BC), which manages communication over the bus, and a Bus Monitor (BM), which observes data traffic without interfering. These components ensure seamless operation and data integrity across the system.
The System Controller (SC) oversees the entire system, ensuring proper coordination, while the System Monitor (SM) handles performance monitoring and diagnostics. This bus architecture is typically arranged in a daisy-chain configuration, with each terminal connected through the bus, facilitating efficient communication and data flow. The fail-safe redundancy architecture minimizes the risk of single points of failure, a critical factor in high-stakes environments.
Modern innovations
Despite its longevity, MIL-STD-1553B has not remained static. Modern implementations incorporate enhanced physical layer components, such as advanced transformer-coupled connectors and transceivers that offer increased signal integrity and reduced electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Recent implementations include the Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which integrates MIL-STD-1553B alongside higher-speed data protocols like IEEE 1394 and Fibre Channel, the Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet and the European Space Agency’s Ariane 5 rocket, highlighting the standard’s continued relevance in both defense and space missions.
Twinax and triax connectors, like those offered by Cinch under the Trompeter brand, provide exceptional EMI protection and noise rejection through up to 90% shielding coverage and twisted-pair configurations. Similarly, Cinch offers a wide range of MIL-STD-1553 connectivity solutions, adapters, RFI caps, and terminators, as well as box bus couplers with 1–8
1553-with-chain
stubs and various fixed-length cable assemblies. These components are designed to meet stringent protocol requirements, ensuring low attenuation, precise impedance, and superior noise rejection—all critical for reliable data transmission in harsh environments.
In addition to connectors, MIL-STD-1553B cable assemblies from Cinch Trompeter are constructed with multiple layers of electrical shielding and environmental protection to withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, and mechanical shock. This combination of rugged design and advanced materials ensures consistent performance in mission-critical applications.
Hybrid architectures, where MIL-STD-1553B operates alongside higherspeed data protocols, are increasingly common to meet the demands of modern, data-intensive defense operations. While MIL-STD-1553B remains the trusted choice for critical command and control functions due to its deterministic reliability, newer protocols, such as Fibre Channel and ARINC 664 (AFDX) are employed in parallel to handle high-bandwidth data transfer.
For example, the F-22 Raptor leverages this hybrid approach, using 1553B for essential flight and weapons control, while faster protocols manage data from advanced radar, infrared, and electronic warfare systems.
Similarly, the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter uses a combination of IEEE 1394 and Fibre Channel to manage the significant data generated by its advanced sensors, enabling real-time data fusion, threat detection and target acquisition, critical for modern combat effectiveness.
Real-world applications
MIL-STD-1553B’s versatility and dependability has secured its position across various platforms. It forms the backbone of communication between flight controls, navigation systems and weapon systems in military aviation, such as the Eurofighter Typhoon. Ground vehicles, like the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, rely heavily on its robust architecture for onboard diagnostics and command functions.
Space exploration missions, including NASA's Mars Perseverance Rover, leverage MIL-STD-1553B due to its resilience in extreme environments. Missile systems like the Patriot missile use this standard for precise targeting data downloads and mid-flight coordination, exemplifying the standard's critical role in defense.
As defense sectors increasingly integrate AI-driven autonomous systems and advanced sensor networks, the deterministic nature of 1553B ensures
precise, timely data delivery, essential in operational scenarios involving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) like the MQ-9 Reaper and autonomous ground systems such as those used by the U.S. Army's robotic combat vehicles.
The future of MIL-STD-1553B
While newer data bus standards, such as ARINC 664 (AFDX), Fibre Channel, and Ethernet-based protocols, offer higher data rates and more advanced features, including deterministic data transmission, increased bandwidth, network scalability and support for real-time data transfer, MIL-STD1553B’s legacy of reliability and predictability ensures its ongoing relevance.
Modernized implementations, such as advanced bus controllers and enhanced remote terminals, further extend the standard’s capabilities, allowing it to integrate with evolving digital infrastructure. These innovations not only maintain the standard’s robustness but also open opportunities for enhanced functionality in next-generation defense systems.
As a trusted partner, PEI-Genesis continues to support this evolution, providing state-of-the-art components that enhance the performance and longevity of MIL-STD-1553B systems. Our commitment to quality and customization ensures that a 50-year-old standard remains poised to support the next generation of aerospace and defense technology.
In an industry where failure is not an option, the enduring strength of MILSTD-1553B—and the innovations keeping it relevant—serve as a powerful reminder that sometimes, the best way forward is to build on the foundations that have already proven their worth.
To learn more about the wide range of MIL-STD-1553 connectivity solutions offered by PEI-Genesis, visit.:
Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions
AUXILIARY SYSTEMS THAT ARE SUITABLE FOR
VERSATILE DEFENCE APPLICAITONS.
Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions, renowned in the industry as a premium distributor and installer of Fischer Panda generators, is fast evolving into one of the UK’s leading innovators in reliable mobile power, climate control, and water purification systems across specialist vehicle, marine, and defence markets.
Celebrating their 30th anniversary, the Verwood-based company was among the first in the industry to achieve ISO UKAS 9000:2015 accreditation. Rooted in their core values, the family-run business is committed to providing exceptional customer service and aftersales support, backed with over 100 years of combined engineering experience.
Experts in power generation and power management systems, the Company has expanded their product portfolio into climate control and water purification systems – all driven by the need to provide reliable and continuous power supply. Furthermore, recognising the need in the market for more sustainable approaches, Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions made great strides in 2024 by forging new partnerships with high-quality, premium equipment manufacturers to provide their customers with more eco-friendly product ranges.
Clayton LPS II: A Compact, All-In-One Power Management System
Early in 2024, the Company started their collaboration with Clayton Power, providing a premium semi-mobile Lithium Power System with the LPS II. The premium semi-mobile Lithium Power System is designed to be compact and simplified, offering all-in-one solutions for powering a variety of devices and equipment in the field. The versatility of the LPS II makes it perfect for applications ranging from military vehicles to remote command centres, providing reliable power in critical situations. With its robust Lithium battery technology, the LPS II ensures that defence personnel have access to dependable energy, no matter how demanding the environment. This system is perfect for defence units that need uninterrupted power in areas without access to the grid, making it an essential asset in both stationary and mobile operations.
Reliability is essential in military and defence applications, and the EFOY Fuel Cell System offers just that. Using methanol fuel and cartridges, the system provides clean, efficient, and uninterrupted power without relying on the weather or traditional energy sources. Whether in desert heat or arctic cold, the EFOY Fuel Cell ensures continuous power for critical operations, from communication equipment to surveillance systems. Its long-lasting fuel cartridges allow for flexibility in deployment, making it an ideal solution for long-term field operations.
By eliminating the need for constant recharging or reliance on external power grids, the EFOY system ensures that personnel are never left without the necessary power to perform essential tasks, regardless of location.
Climate Control with Eberspächer
Maintaining operational efficiency in extreme environments requires more than just power – it also demands effective climate control. Partnering with leading experts in climate technology, Eberspächer, Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions can provide and install temperature regulation systems in military vehicles and mobile field units.
Eberspächer offer advanced air conditioning and heating solutions designed for the harshest climates. From arid deserts to freezing conditions, these systems ensure that defence personnel and remain comfortable and focused on their tasks. Whether used in armoured vehicles or portable field shelters, these climate control systems allow units to operate in a wide range of environmental conditions, ensuring mission success.
Water Purification Systems with Parker and Wananchi
Access to clean water is essential for survival and operational success, especially in remote locations where water sources are limited. By integrating Parker Systems and Wananchi water purification
technologies, Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions is providing the military with solutions that ensure safe, potable water in any environment.
Parker’s water filtration systems are designed to work under extreme conditions, removing harmful bacteria and contaminants from natural water sources. Wananchi, with its patented simplified purification technology, ensures that soldiers in the field have a plug-and-play reliable access to clean water, crucial for hydration, medical needs, and maintaining overall health. These systems provide peace of mind for defence personnel, enabling them to focus on their mission without worrying about the availability of safe drinking water.
By partnering with high quality and reputable brands, Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions is delivering and installing top-tier equipment that empower the defence industry with the tools they need for success. From power generation and fuel cells to climate control and water purification, these technologies enhance mission capabilities, ensuring that personnel have the resources they need to perform efficiently, regardless of the volatility of their operational environment.
For more information about Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions visit
G&H Strengthens Aerospace & Defence Capabilities WITH THE ACQUISITION OF GLOBAL PHOTONICS
Gooch & Housego, G&H (AIM:GHH), a global leader in advanced optics and photonics solutions, is pleased to announce the expansion of its U.S. presence with the acquisition of Global Photonics, a specialist in complex optical systems and thin film coatings based in Trinity, Florida.
The acquisition strengthens G&H’s Optical Systems division and establishes G&H Tampa as a U.S. Center of Excellence for Optical Systems.
This acquisition significantly extends G&H's presence in the U.S. Aerospace & Defence market and marks an important step towards replicating the success of the Group’s optical systems hub in the UK by establishing a full optical systems engineering and manufacturing capability in the United States.
Global Photonics, which is based near Tampa, Florida, supplies optical systems for military land applications, including periscopes and fire-control systems, as well as instrumentation for air platforms and other advanced precision optics. Its expertise in cleanroom lithography, photolithographic reticle fabrication, ion beam etching and advanced thin film coatings will complement G&H’s existing manufacturing capabilities and enhance the Group’s offering into the North American market.
The transaction represents another ‘speed to value’ acquisition by G&H. The acquisition allows us to support the Global Photonics team with the wider capabilities of G&H particularly in the areas of laser protection filtering
and complex optical system design allowing them to secure further business through their existing strong reputation and well-established relationships with U.S. defence prime contractors.
Charlie Peppiatt, Chief Executive Officer of Gooch & Housego, commented:
"Global Photonics is a strong strategic and operational fit for G&H, bringing deep application expertise, strong relationships with U.S. defence primes and complementary manufacturing capabilities to our growing Optical Systems division. This acquisition accelerates our plan to become the partner of choice for high-precision optical systems in both the UK and the U.S. and opens exciting new growth channels in North America.”
“The establishment of a full optical systems engineering and manufacturing capability in the U.S. for the Aerospace & Defence market mirrors our successful strategy for the U.S. healthcare sector with the recent opening of our G&H Innovation Hub for Life Sciences in Rochester NY.”
Expands Maritime Domain Capabilities with Battle-Tested Unmanned Surface Vessels
Strategic partnership with leading USV company enhances Red Cat’s multidomain capabilities and capitalizes on rapidly growing global demand for autonomous, kineticcapable platforms
Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: RCAT) ("Red Cat"), a leading provider of drone technology for military, government, and commercial operations, today announced the expansion of its multi-domain Family of Systems with a new line of Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs). This strategic move marks Red Cat’s official entry into the rapidly evolving maritime autonomy market and reinforces its position as a provider of comprehensive, interoperable unmanned systems for air, land, and sea operations.
Meeting the Demands of Modern Conflict
Red Cat’s entry into the maritime domain builds on existing inroads, including a partnership with Ocean Power Technologies to integrate its aerial drones with autonomous maritime platforms. Red Cat’s own line of kinetic-capable USVs marks a significant step forward. The decision is a direct response to rising geopolitical tensions and a shift in U.S. defense priorities toward re-asserting American maritime dominance globally. Red Cat is well positioned to deliver American-manufactured solutions that address these urgent operational needs of the U.S. and allied naval forces.
“This is a pivotal moment for Red Cat as we evolve from an aerial-first drone company into a true multi-domain defense provider,” said Jeff Thompson, Red Cat CEO. “This expansion into maritime platforms opens significant opportunities in a fastgrowing and urgently needed defense sector. As the U.S. and its allies confront rising maritime threats, particularly in the IndoPacific, there’s a clear demand for powerful, proven, and scalable USVs made in America. With these USVs, we’re helping to shape the future of autonomous warfare and strengthening the foundation of U.S. defense manufacturing.”
Introducing Red Cat’s New Line of USVs
Red Cat is bringing its line of USVs to market in partnership with a leading global manufacturer of USVs. The system is tested daily in actual combat and designed to operate either autonomously or in manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) configurations. The technology already has 10,000+ hours of operating time in live combat missions. Moving into production will accelerate Red Cat’s roadmap for USVs that integrate seamlessly with its existing family of ISR and unmanned aerial systems, supporting multidomain and swarming operations.
“This system has been used day in and day out in the current conflict, accumulating tens of thousands of hours in real combat operations and achieving dozens of successful kinetic engagements against enemy assets, more than any navy since World War II,” Thompson stated. “By partnering with a company that has extensive proven experience and is well beyond the proof-of-concept stage, we gain a substantial competitive advantage as we enter this market.”
Red Cat is preparing to start production in Q3 of a seven-meter
Expeditionary Multi-Role Craft developed to meet the demands of high-speed, long-range, kinetic maritime operations. It is built for larger payloads, extended endurance, and increased firepower. The version has enhanced range, payload capacity, and mission flexibility making it ideal for deep-strike missions, anti-ship warfare, and coastal interdiction in contested zones.
Leaders in Ship Building and Marine Innovation
Red Cat has assembled an elite team of master boatbuilders, drawing from industry leaders with centuries of collective experience. Renowned for pioneering advanced jet propulsion systems and crafting superior, American-made hulls, our team brings unmatched expertise to every vessel. Boatbuilding at scale demands profound knowledge and precision—qualities our proven professionals deliver with decades of hands-on experience, ensuring excellence in every detail.
For more information about Red Cat’s mission and its line of Unmanned Surface Vessels visit:
From the Frontlines of Innovation: America’s Drone™
Born from American ingenuity and built for the modern battlefield, the Black Widow™ is more than just a drone—it's a symbol of our nation’s strength, innovation, and resilience. Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA, the Black Widow™ represents a new era of short-range reconnaissance both domestically and for our coalition partners around the world.
MAKING MOBILITY POSSIBLE
FAUN Trackway Limited’s Medium Ground Mobility System remains a trusted, field-proven capability in modern military mobility operations, supporting armed forces around the globe in their need for rapid and reliable ground access across the most demanding environments.
The Medium Ground Mobility System has earned its reputation as a tactical enabler, helping military units maintain momentum and mission readiness regardless of terrain challenges. Designed for fast deployment and retrieval, this system only requires two personnel to operate effectively, minimising manpower and maximising agility in the field.
This system comprises of M30H Trackway®, an aluminium panel, graded as Military Load Classification (MLC) 30 baseline on 3% California Baring Ratio ground conditions indefinitely, and loads of up to MLC 40 dependent on the ground conditions. Versatile in its capability, the M30H Trackway® panel is the ideal solution for approach roads, gap crossing, temporary roadways, beach landings, and flooring.
Thanks to its diverse deployment capabilities, the system continues to serve Armed Forces across the globe.
See it on display at DSEI 2025, Stand N4-310 September 9th - 12th.
Why Telescopic Masts Matter in Modern Warfare - The Battlefield’s Eyes, Ears, and Voice
Introduction
A platoon leader kneels beside a snow-covered timberline. His radio crackles with fragments—terrain blocks the signal. Behind him, a carbon-fibre pole slides upward, locking at each section. Antennas and thermal optics rise above the pine trees. In seconds, the platoon gets clear contact, sees an incoming drone, and sends a fire mission. That slender mast turned confusion into clarity.
Telescopic masts do one thing: they enhance the battlefield’s senses. That function helps with communications, electronic warfare (EW), and sensor fusion everywhere. The tactical antenna mast ensures that force stays connected. This keeps everyone informed and ready. This article explains why elevation is important. It also looks at how new mast designs help support high-tech payloads. Finally, it outlines what buyers should think next.
The Tactical Value of Elevation
Communication Lifeline at Height
LoS (Line-of-Sight radios) radios send key data, but hills, buildings, and trees can block the signal. A telescopic mast elevates antennas above those obstacles, restoring range and signal quality. Programs such as the U.S. WIN-T network use vehicle-mounted masts and 30 meters long TR-field masts. These masts connect frontline units to brigade and division nodes.
Why Elevation Matters
• Each extra meter can enhance UHF coverage in rolling terrain.
• Raised antennas reduce multipath fading, improving voice clarity and data throughput.
• Elevated SATCOM terminals reduce local clutter. This speeds up the time to engage a satellite lock.
• Field experience suggests that increasing an antenna to 10 meters can greatly extend the effective combat-net radio range over backpack antennas, though actual performance advantages vary with environment and equipment.
While satellite communications are significant, however, they have narrow bandwidth and are constantly vulnerable to jamming and spoofing in combat environments. This has increased the reliance on independent, line-of-sight tactical networks supported by elevated platforms.
Speed and Flexibility in the Field
Fast, Tool-Free Setup
Mastsystem’s mechanical deployment avoids power packs, compressors, or hydraulic pumps. Two operators can raise a 10 m
composite mast in around 15 minutes under field conditions. For heavier loads—over 50 kilograms or over 30 meters—two or three people may be needed. This can take up to 30 minutes, but it provides longer heights and great strength in tough terrain.
This speed of setup isn’t just convenient—it’s critical in domains like electronic warfare, where seconds can define who detects or disrupts first.
Materials and Mechanics:
Built for the Battlefield
Composite Strength
Fiberglass-carbon hybrids give Mastsystem masts a strength-to-weight ratio that can reduce mass significantly compared to aluminum tubes. Lower mass allows easier rooftop installation on light tactical vehicles. Mounting on a range of platform options offers even more flexibility— high-performance mast systems can be fitted to vehicles, trailers,
portable manpacks, or ISO containers, depending on mission requirement. Cable-, dual-belt-drive or steel wire vehicle-mounted systems of high capacity can hoist up to 600 kilograms in just two minutes, offering excellent performance for mobile radar or surveillance bases.
No External Power
Purely mechanical deployment works in blackout conditions. Crews keep full capability even when batteries run low or a generator fails. Former Finnish Defence Forces R&D Director Jyrki Kosola captured the design ethos: "If it works in Finland, it will work anywhere." As a Finnish company, Mastsystem designs and tests its mast systems in some of the harshest environments in Europe, including arctic conditions—ensuring reliability under extreme cold, wind, and snow.
Minimal Maintenance
Composite sections are built to resist dust, salt fog, UV exposure, and mechanical wear. The design avoids seals, pumps, or O-rings, minimizing components that could compromise performance in field conditions. Mastsystem mast structures are tested to meet MIL-STD810 and DEF STAN 00-35 environmental standards, ensuring durability under demanding operational scenarios.
Mast Systems in Electronic Warfare and ISR
Elevated Edge in Electronic Warfare
Spectrum dominance begins with detection. Direction-finding (DF) arrays mounted on a military mast can pick up weak enemy transmissions that ground-level sensors may miss. Jamming payloads then reach further with the same wattage because height improves line-of-sight to the target emitter.
Open-source imagery from Ukraine shows EW teams using mastmounted DF antennas and high-gain yagis to locate control links for small unmanned aircraft. A key example of this model is the U.S. Army's Prophet system. It’s a tactical SIGINT and EW platform mounted on vehicles like Humvees. The system has a 7-meter telescopic mast that elevates antennas. This helps capture signals and find directions better near the front line. Operators say that higher antennas help with better coverage and may speed up signal acquisition.
Key EW Benefits
• Better geolocation. Triangulation accuracy improves with antenna separation and a clear horizon.
• Stronger jamming footprint. Elevated emitters can disrupt hostile drones at greater distances.
• Lower visual signature. A slim mast blends with tree lines better than a hovering quadcopter.
Modular Sensor Hub for C4ISR
Modern masts resemble Swiss Army knives. NATO standard interface plates make it easy for crews to attach thermal cameras, groundsurveillance radars, and mesh-radio repeaters quickly. A single field-deployable mast can serve as a pop-up observation tower, a RF
listening post, and a mesh node. All these functions send live data to a commander’s Common Operating Picture (COP).
Typical
Payload Mix
• Thermal camera: capable of detecting a quadcopter several kilometers away under ideal conditions.
• GSR module: tracks foot patrols and vehicles beyond the visual range.
• Spectrum sensor: scans across military-relevant frequency bands (e.g., 20 MHz – 6 GHz).
• C4ISR gateway: fuses sensor feeds and pushes them over IP via mesh radios.
These stacks share power and data over a single lightweight loom, reducing clutter around the mast base. In some configurations, masts also carry meteorological sensors—such as wind speed, temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure gauges—providing critical local weather data for artillery fire support and air operations planning. As operations speed up and decision-making moves from human to machine pace, the need for quick data collection and integration increases. Elevating sensors quickly and reliably is essential to feed high-volume data into battlefield management systems that construct and update situational awareness in near real-time.
Adapting to the Next Threat Cycle
Height Multiplies Awareness
A mast is a force multiplier due to the advantages of altitude. For example, raising a thermal imager from two meters to twelve meters can increase the drone-detection horizon under certain conditions. The added warning time may let shooters cue counter-UAS weapons before a threat enters lethal range.
Sound ranging arrays, radar panels, and optical turrets all gain precision when elevated above vegetation and terrain. Even a modest height boost can reduce blind spots caused by obstacles.
Ready for the Next Threat Cycle
The pace of conflict keeps rising. Future mast systems under development aim for faster setup times, improved wind resistance, and enhanced resilience against cyber or EMP threats. Designers are exploring the integration of encrypted radios within mast heads to simplify cabling and reduce snag points.
Rapid enhancements in surveillance and electronic warfare technologies continue to propel communication infrastructure development. Nations maintain a constant competition to surpass their rivals by utilizing systems that are adaptable, cloak themselves, and are resistant to jamming and intercepting. Modern field mast platforms, especially modular and vehicle-mounted solutions, must evolve continuously to meet these shifting requirements. Increasingly, these systems support decentralized mesh radio networks which operate without reliance on traditional infrastructure. Elevated nodes distributed across the field enable resilient, self-healing communication architectures that are more difficult to disrupt and quicker to deploy.
Tethered Drones and Telescopic Masts
Partners, Not Rivals
Tethered drones are ideal for rapid aerial surveys but they depend on weather, power, and trained operators. A vehicle-mounted mast offers
continuous coverage with minimal upkeep. Used together, these systems can complement each other—the mast provides persistent oversight, while the drone extends reach beyond line-of-sight.
Feature Telescopic Mast Field Mast Tethered Drone
Combined systems have shown promising results in reducing coverage gaps, though quantified field data remain limited.
Summary for Decision-Makers
Key Takeaways for Mission Planners
• Elevation enhances communication and sensor range cost-effectively.
• Mechanical masts offer high reliability in austere environments.
• Composite tubes reduce weight and ease transport.
• Modular mast heads enable multi-role sensor integration for C4ISR and EW.
• Decision-makers should request validated technical specs, not rely solely on marketing claims.
Final Thoughts: See First, Act First Without elevated sensors and antennas, modern defense would be blind and voiceless.
They don’t fire shots. They don’t command units. But telescopic masts support the systems that do. They lift the battlefield’s “eyes, ears, and voice” to where they’re most effective.
In fast-changing environments, where seconds matter and signals compete, these platforms enable your unit to see first, communicate clearly, and respond with confidence.
If your force depends on information dominance, don’t overlook the mast.
Mastsystem engineers have delivered field-deployable mast solutions to over fifty countries worldwide. Whatever your mission calls for a rugged vehicle-mounted mast or portable system for operations forward, Mastsystem can tailor height, payload, and mounting configurations to fit operational needs.
As multi-domain threats grow, don’t let your force operate in the blind. Elevate your capability—literally.
Contact us for a demo or data sheet. Our support is based on field experience, not sales talk.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a telescopic mast used in the military application?
A telescopic mast is a mechanical platform used to elevate antennas, sensors, cameras and other payloads in order to improve communication, surveillance, and signal intelligence on the battlefield.
2. Why are mechanical masts utilized over hydraulic or pneumatic ones?
Mechanical masts do not need external power or compressed air, making them more dependable, easier to maintain, and faster to deploy—ideal for combat operations.
3. How do masts improve electronic warfare?
They elevate jamming and signal intercept equipment, providing better coverage and earlier detection of the enemy's signals.
4. Are telescopic masts used with drones?
Yes. Masts offer persistence and stability, and drones offer flexibility. Together, they create a more comprehensive surveillance and communications system.
5. What makes up Mastsystem masts?
We use carbon fiber and fiberglass composites to reduce weight without compromising strength.
6. Do masts stand up to aggressive environments?
Yes. Mastsystem masts are tested to be able to withstand dust, sand, UV-radiation, water, bullets and freezing conditions without loss of performance.
PROVEN PARTNERS IN DEFENCE
Cummins products are customisable to meet
diverse vehicle and application requiremen
providing reliable powertrain solutions for the defense industry.
Since World War 1, Cummins has been a critical partner in supporting military operations, consistently earning top marks for durability, dependability, and performance.
Most recently, Cummins was recognised with the Emergent Defense Impact 100 award, honoring the company as one of the 100 most impactful organisations in the defence industry. This recognition highlights Cummins demonstrated impact on the defence industry, creative and innovative solutions, constructive collaboration within the ecosystem, and positive impact on local communities.
The Power and Delivery
Each Force Needs
Cummins supplies diesel engines and power systems to defence forces worldwide, with thousands of Cummins-powered vehicles and power generation units in active service, helping customers maintain strong defences.
Offering a wide range of off-the-shelf engines from 74 to 800 hp, as well as generators for military applications, Cummins easily adapts to evolving requirements for greater power density and performance. Leveraging proven power systems from both military and commercial applications, Cummins engineers can customise solutions to meet specific defence needs.
By starting with commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technology and then tailoring it to meet specifications, customers gain advantages in pricing, reliability, data access, and global delivery times.
Powering Missions on Land
Since the 1970s, Cummins has been a leader in developing engine technologies for the U.S. Army, building on a legacy that began with WWII products. Advanced test cells and rigorous on- and off-road testing ensure the highest quality and performance of Cummins products.
When customers need to cover ground, Cummins engines provide a tactical advantage with greater range and efficiency. Whether powering armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs), armoured personnel carriers (APCs), tactical trucks, heavy artillery, missile launchers, or unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), Cummins leverages 106 years of expertise in R&D (Research and Development), engineering, system integration, and technical guidance. The company offers solutions for diverse applications, locations, and conditions, supported by comprehensive service and support.
Cummins provides a comprehensive portfolio of technologies to ensure engine availability while meeting the latest emissions
Continuous innovation ensures the delivery of optimal solutions to meet customers' needs.
An Engine for Current and the Next Generation of Combat Vehicles
The next generation of the V903 engine is a testament to Cummins' commitment to delivering reliable, battle-proven power solutions for the defence industry. Built on a robust 903 cubic inch (14.8L) V-8 architecture, the V903 has a legacy of powering the Bradley Fighting Vehicle for over four decades, consistently proving its durability and performance on the battlefield. The latest generation, now delivering 760 horsepower, continues this legacy, offering even greater power and enhanced capabilities for modern military applications.
Designed with a focus on superior performance, the V903 boasts several advanced features. Its electronically controlled CP-STC fuel system ensures consistent power output in all conditions, while the pressurised lubrication system maintains performance at 45° angularity in any direction. The engine is also equipped with an advanced air intake system that uses turbocharging and aftercooling to meet specific application requirements, ensuring optimal power delivery. Acoustically tuned and thermally insulated exhaust manifolds enhance performance and safety by maintaining even exhaust flow and reducing surface temperatures.
Engineered for future adaptability, the V903 is hybrid-ready and can be upgraded with higher ratings and options to meet evolving mission needs. The Smart Start feature further enhances its reliability, providing push-button starting with automatic intake air heating for dependable operation, even in cold climates. This combination of proven design, advanced technology, and future-ready capabilities makes the V903 the ideal solution for defence forces seeking a highperformance engine that can adapt to their ever-changing requirements.
Integrated Power for the Defence Industry
Cummins' Components Business, specifically Cummins Drivetrain and Braking Systems (CDBS), formerly known as Meritor, delivers industryleading axle and brake solutions. Leveraging CDBS's expertise in axle and brake technology, Cummins is positioned as a leading provider of integrated powertrain solutions for both internal combustion and electric power applications. With Cummins' integrated power solutions, customers can trust that their entire powertrain is fully supported, and any issues can be efficiently resolved.
Cummins integrated power delivers choice, advances sustainability, enhances the customer experience, and drives innovation. The commitment is to empower customers with top-tier options that meet customer needs through a continually expanded portfolio and partnerships. Complete powertrain solutions are now available—from engine to transmission to axles—ensuring every component works seamlessly together.
Designed and Engineered for High Performance
Meritor-branded solutions deliver innovative products with superior performance, efficiency, and reliability, solidifying Cummins as a leading global supplier of drivetrain, mobility, braking, and aftermarket solutions for commercial vehicles and industrial markets. Serving diverse sectors, including commercial truck, trailer, off-highway, defence, specialty, and aftermarket, Cummins excels in designing, engineering, and manufacturing high-performance drivetrain solutions that ensure mobility and safety for tactical-wheeled vehicles worldwide.
Engineering teams prioritize customer needs, ensuring that end-user requirements drive the engineering process. Ongoing efforts to redefine the global defence portfolio around customer demands underscore the company’s unwavering commitment.
Scalable Tactical Vehicle Solutions
Meritor’s ProTec modular solutions for tactical vehicles deliver high performance, efficiency, and reliability. The ProTec Independent Suspension Axle Systems (ISAS), paired with durable ProTec All-Wheel Drive Beam Axles, offer the dependability required on the battlefield. The ProTec ISAS family provides a two-tiered approach to protecting military personnel while supporting mission success. The weightefficient, payload-enhancing design increases vehicle capacity for additional armour in combat environments. The strong yet lightweight differential carrier ensures durability without compromising weight savings. ISAS solutions are scalable for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty tactical wheeled vehicles.
Optimized for the military market, ProTec solutions meet stringent
specifications, performance requirements, and sustainability targets. For over 115 years, Meritor-brand axles have been the choice of the U.S. Army for 2.5- and 5-ton vehicles. The ProTec All-Wheel Drive Beam Axles provide the range and performance needed in military applications.
Now, Cummins offers more than just engines for defence vehicles. With a wide range of industry-leading drivetrain systems, including axles, brakes, suspensions, drivelines, and aftermarket parts, Cummins brings its commercial and industrial expertise to the military market.
Power to Set up Base
As today's defence systems become more agile and sophisticated, there is a greater reliance on associated power generation solutions. From Basic Expeditionary Airfield Resources to Advanced Medium Mobile Power Sources (AMMPS), Cummins delivers the military experience and technical capabilities needed to meet demanding performance, logistics and mobile power requirements.
From powering command centers, mobile hospitals, and infrastructure at forward operating bases to missile defence and directed weapon systems, Cummins Power Generation provides the expertise and innovation to keep your mission on track — anywhere in the world.
Rugged Mobile Power: 5kW to 60 kW Prime Power
The Rugged Mobile Power (RMP) Unit is a version of the original AMMPS generator, designed for use by both US and non-US militaries in tactical environments and beyond. It offers significant operational benefits across all military services, including a reduced logistics footprint, enhanced unit mobility and transportability, and lower operations and maintenance
(O&M) costs. The RMP line includes generator sets ranging from 5 kW to 60 kW in both 50/60 Hz and 400 Hz.
These generators are versatile enough to support microgrid solutions without requiring external control devices. Additionally, service personnel can connect up to 6 units in parallel to create a network configuration.
The RMP products are backed by deep defence experience and technical expertise.
Powering Missions on Sea
Shipbuilders and naval operations around the globe depend on Cummins for continuous improvement and innovation. Offering a broad range of power from 4.5 to 95 liters—including propulsion engines, auxiliary engines, and marine generators—Cummins provides solutions that meet customer needs and exceed military and security requirements.
Many of Cummins' marine engines are approved by major marine classification societies worldwide, such as the American Bureau of Shipping. Notable features include independent safety and alarm systems, dual-walled fuel lines, and duplex filtration.
In 2004, Cummins pioneered diesel electric propulsion using AvK® and Stamford® alternators. Today, over one thousand Cummins diesel electric generators power Platform Supply Vessels and Offshore Service Vessels globally.
All Cummins marine engines can run on JP-5, JP-8, kerosene, and biodiesel. With a history of delivering reliable, durable diesel engines to the marine market since 1919, Cummins continues to push the boundaries of innovation.
Receive support at major ports on every continent through the Cummins distributor network — anytime day or night. With Cummins-powered vessels operating in every time zone, get unmatched access to technical experts around the clock and attain parts worldwide through three major distribution centers in Memphis, Singapore, and Belgium.
Call In Expert Support
Cummins Care is a solutions center dedicated to preventing issues while providing quick and accurate answers. Its mission is to elevate customer service by being available 24/7/365, offering faster and more personalized attention with rapid results.
From the moment a customer engages with Cummins Care, they gain access to experts with specialized skills, experience, and in-depth knowledge tailored to military equipment needs. Additional support is available through regional and language-specific experts and resources at care.cummins.com.
Cummins ensures that military equipment remains mission-ready by delivering a seamless support experience from supply lines to battle lines, on land and at sea.
Ready for Action
From power range and innovation to world-leading reliability and electronic integration, Cummins is committed to ensuring military vehicles perform with distinction, ready for action 24/7. Discover how Cummins can power your next mission:
Proven Partners in Defense
The Cummins V903 is the trusted standard powering U.S. medium tracked fleets - delivering best-in-class durability and total cost of ownership (TCO). Reliable and battle-tested, the V903 is built for the mission.
Engineered to enhance combat readiness and redefine performance standards, it’s a proven solution for today - and ready for what’s next.
See us at IDEX 2025 Stand 12-A09
WATCH SLINGER IN ACTION
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
Mounts on military and commercial vehicles, or a 昀xed site
Requires minimal training and is easy to use
WHEN SAFETY REALLY MATTERS
On critical missions marked by uncertainty and unexpected turns, the one thing you can control is ensuring the use of safe, reliable components.
By doing so, whether descending into the sea, crossing harsh terrain, or breaking the sound barrier, you can focus on the task at hand, knowing your equipment will handle whatever tests they come to face.
Our washers are the ideal, market-leading bolting solution to ensure mechanical integrity. So, what makes Nord-Lock the given partner when safety and reliability are non-negotiable?
Bolting at its best
Bolted connections are fundamental in virtually every piece of machinery, be it in heavy-duty trucks, aircraft, or submarines. But despite their omnipresence, bolts have an unfortunate weakness: when exposed to vibrations or dynamic loads, they can loosen. If the bolt fails to perform its critical task of holding parts together, the consequences could be catastrophic, especially when operating in the unknown without the possibility of performing maintenance.
Since 1982, we have provided our wedge-locking washers to manufacturers of critical applications. Our washers come in pairs, with cams facing each other and serrations gripping the mating surface. When the cams lock into each other, it is geometry and not friction, used in conventional bolting, that prevents bolts from vibrating loose. Once installed, if the bolt tries to rotate loose, our washers act to increase the clamp load by utilizing a wedgelocking effect, holding the bolt in place. It’s possible to picture the bolt as a spring that stretches upon tightening. That’s how it works.
To put it in the simplest of terms: your bolts can’t loosen unintentionally once secured with our washers, no matter the intensity of vibrations or dynamic loads.
For all applications on critical
missions
All our securing washers incorporate this groundbreaking, unmatched bolt-securing technology. With a dedicated research and development team comprised of experts in bolting technology, we’ve developed washers that meet the specific needs of critical applications. Among them, you’ll find the wheel nut keeping heavy vehicles operating efficiently in all terrains and our renowned NLX washer featuring a conical shape that maintains secure bolted connections even if the material expands or retracts due to extreme temperature changes.
But in the most critical of missions, where drawing on previous experience only is relevant up to a certain level, unique challenges sometimes require unique solutions. So, in addition to our
THE MOST VALUABLE SAFETY INVESTMENT
During critical missions, safely getting from point A to B takes on a whole new meaning. Whether on rocky surfaces, carrying heavy loads, or enduring extreme vibrations, Nord-Lock wheel nuts safeguard your vehicle's performance.
B U I LT T O PROTECT
Peli Mobile Military Products: UNYIELDING
DEFENCE FOR THE WORLD'S MOST DEMANDING FRONTLINES
For over five relentless decades, Peli-Hardigg™ has stood beside elite defence forces, pioneering transport and packaging solutions that go beyond moving equipment—they protect lifelines.
Whether trudging across glacial wastes, clawing through unforgiving peaks, or baking under merciless desert suns, Peli cases and illumination systems have earned their place as the battle-hardened guardians of gear and grit alike.
As a leader in protective casing and portable lighting technologies, Peli doesn’t just build products—it engineers trust.
Battle-tempered and field-proven, our systems thrive where failure is not an option, embodying the resilience, precision, and dependability that modern missions demand.
Explore the full spectrum of our tactical ecosystem at military.peli.com, where our mission-critical offerings are organised into four specialised sectors: Armory, Medical, Logistics, and Office/IT. Each category is built to address the unique challenges of high-stakes operations, delivering tailored solutions for every scenario.
Armory: Fortifying Firepower with Unrivalled Tenacity
Weapons systems and precision optics are critical to operational success—fragile in form, yet vital in function. Peli-Hardigg armory enclosures are the ironclad barrier shielding tactical essentials from shock, sleet, dust storms, and thermal extremes.
Developed in close collaboration with military engineers and procurement specialists, our solutions are configuration-specific fortresses designed to elevate readiness and accelerate deployment. Discover our full suite of weapon protection solutions at military.peli.com/armory.
Medical: Guarding the Tools of Survival
In high-stakes situations, every second counts. That’s why Peli’s medical-grade transport solutions are engineered not just to carry critical supplies, but to protect them—delivering peace of mind when it matters most. Engineered to protect defibrillators, field surgery modules, pharmaceutical payloads, and diagnostic tools, our cases stand up to shock, climate extremes, and bio-contaminants.
With EMS kits, MEDChests, and emergency lighting systems designed for rapid response, field medics can rely on Peli to safeguard what they depend on most. See our full range at military.peli.com/medical
Logistics: Defending the Backbone of Operations
Behind every successful mission lies a well-oiled logistics machine. Peli’s transport architecture ensures that critical assets like drone fleets, satellite uplinks, and portable power units are shielded within structures as rugged as the terrain they navigate.
From precision-molded single-lid containers to shock-isolating rack-mounted units, our solutions marry durability and mobility. Designed to meet the evolving needs of modern logistics, Peli ensures that whether it’s a circuit board or a mobile command
node, it arrives battle-ready. Explore our solutions at military.peli.com/logistics
Office/IT: Protecting Command in Motion
In today’s battlespace, information is as vital as ammunition. Peli protects servers, comms gear, ruggedized laptops, and fragile electronics with precision—keeping data secure and command operations uninterrupted.
With mobile war rooms becoming the norm, Peli’s field desks and rack-mounted IT modules enable agile command posts that move with the mission. Keep your digital nerve center secure at military.peli.com/office-it
Crafted in Europe. Battle-Tested Beyond Borders.
Built in our state-of-the-art facility in Germany, Peli solutions fuse European engineering excellence with tactical agility. Our regional manufacturing hub supports fast, precise, and collaborative development of defense-grade transport systems.
Driven by continuous testing, advances in material science, and feedback from real-world deployments, Peli-Hardigg evolves constantly to meet emerging threats with steadfast capability. On the frontlines, compromise is not an option. Neither is failure.
ADVENTURE TACTICAL
Strategic Deployments in Middle East and Asia Following
Strong Global Interest Post-SOF Week 2025
Following the successful unveiling of its new infrared (IR) sensor upgrade for the VIP™ Light and Trilobyte® Beacon systems at SOF Week 2025, Adventure Tactical, a division of Adventure Lights Inc., has confirmed the delivery of multiple high-volume orders of its battle-proven IFF Headborne Systems to elite units in the Middle East and South-East Asia.
The newly launched IR sensor—presented during SOF Week earlier this month—was met with widespread interest from military procurement officials, reaffirming global demand for enhanced early warning capabilities in today’s rapidly evolving threat environment. The upgrade is part of Adventure Tactical’s continued commitment to field-driven innovation and missionready technology.
“Our sensor upgrade was designed in response to frontline feedback, but it represents just one part of our broader commitment to capability evolution,” said Jad Gerges, Vice-President of Business Development. “While the launch was a success, our global partners are also continuing to rely on the proven systems that have defined our reputation for decades.”
Major Deployments in Two Strategic Theaters
In the days following the Trump delegation’s visit to the Middle East, an elite regional special operations unit took delivery of several hundred IFF Headborne Systems, reinforcing Adventure Tactical’s long-standing operational presence in the region. This delivery is part of a multi-thousand-unit rollout already underway. Within the same week, a South-East Asian ministry received a separate shipment of hundreds of units, further solidifying Adventure Tactical’s status as a preferred supplier for forces seeking sovereign, export-reliable, Canadian-made technology.
“These deployments reflect continued confidence in our foundational platforms—systems that have been proven under pressure by the most elite users in the world for over three decades,” added Gerges.
A Legacy Innovator—Not a Follower
With over 60 international patents, Adventure Tactical has long been the standard-bearer in light-based IFF and tactical signaling solutions. While newer market entrants attempt to emulate its technology, the company remains decades ahead, with innovations such as Mockingbird®, AutoSync™, and the S.M.A.R.T. Beacon® mesh architecture defining next-generation battlefield awareness.
“We are not the alternative to legacy players—we are the legacy,” said Gerges. “Others are still catching up to the groundwork we laid two decades ago.”
Trusted Manufacturing, Sovereign Delivery
Adventure Tactical’s Canadian identity and 100% domestic manufacturing base enable the company to deliver missioncritical systems with unmatched license flexibility, rapid deployment timelines, and tariff-free access to allied nations.
“In a defense landscape shaken by political friction and export risk, we offer something rare: performance with principle, and sovereignty with consistency,” Gerges stated. www.adventuretactical.com
Are UAS,
...and
other uncrewed systems,
merely
the continuation of indirect fire by another means?
This misquote of Clausewitz, a far more erudite theoretician and philosopher than the author will ever be, will upset many because it is surely true and cuts against the grain of many pet theories.
In the beginning there were rocks hurled by trebuchets then progressively cannon balls, fused balls. HE shells, shrapnel, classic iron lay down bombs from World War I and then dive bombers from World War 2 supplemented by AP munitions then rocket firing ground attack aircraft followed by ballistic missiles, precision guided munitions whether artillery or air delivered. Sorry to disappoint the air warfare proponents but in essence as pointed out by a number of theoreticians aircraft, once air superiority is achieved, are really only forms of transport or indirect fire, All of this development progression sought to overcome one or more of a number of similar issues; target acquisition, precise targeting, lethality/target effect, rate of fire, protection and towards the end of that weapon development trajectory the cost of the people and logistics involved.
At the end of the Second World War Montgomery said words to the effect artillery was the killer of troops in the open but armoured vehicles,
movement and digging did a lot to nullify its effects. Learning some but not all the lessons of the 1939-45 War there then followed a race to increase the calibre and explosive content of dumb artillery shells but there still remained the issues of target acquisition and terminal effect and associated logistic and personnel costs. Even with a 155mm HE shell you have to get pretty close to a main battle tank to have much effect on it. If it is moving and manoeuvring putting that munition close to the target is even more difficult.
Whilst undoubtedly UAS can do other things such as visual and electronic surveillance across the electromagnetic spectrum, communications relay and offensive EW being but a few of those tasks the bottom line is a matrix of all of the factors to achieve cost effective delivery of target effect. Usually as a precision delivery, usually as a cost much less than the traditional indirect delivery system and usually with a reduced danger for the crew/controller. Put into the equation reduced logistics assets and associated costs and less need for expensive training and the appeal of UAS becomes obvious.
Equal efforts are being directed towards ground uncrewed systems and naval equivalents but with all three environments there are issues to do with operating in difficult operational and natural environments. Because they have to have a crew somewhere to programme, launch and or control them proponents of uncrewed (as in occupied by the crew), forget at least two critical factors, experience and Maj Gen JFC Fuller’s so called Constant Tactical Factor which was based on sound lessons learnt and harvested from experience and thinking issues through to their logical conclusion. Something many of the uncrewed proponents of all ranks are guilty of not doing.
Firstly, back to experience. As Montgomery pointed out even World War One experience drove armies underground and to mobile armoured platforms designed to overcome combinations of wire, machine guns, artillery and the ground. He was not the only one and guess what, modern conflict is no different, but people seem to have forgotten this, conveniently or otherwise as the case may be. Ukraine has shown the need for trenches, digging, bunkers, revetments, and linked strong points. Inconvenient but it has been repeated in every sense in Gaza between 1916 and 2025 and in a variety of Israeli-Arab conflicts. Urban areas and digging make life difficult for movement. Fortification and siege warfare is not going to go away, adapt yes, it always has, force developments of new weapons yes it always has, force developments to the adaptations and development yes, it always has.
This leads to Fuller’s Constant Tactical Factor. He was initially thinking that one tactical option and dogma lead to counter tactics and dogma but developed this to include technical developments. Hence the advent of the tank and then the ground attack aircraft as a means of countering them.
What we seem to be missing is that both experience and Fuller showed that the pace of change and science and technology would accelerate this development-counter development cycle. Artillery barrages moved to dive bombers, which were countered by tactics and mobile anti air systems, which resulted in rocket firing aircraft, which resulted in missile GBADS, which led to the return of artillery as deliverers of precision guided munitions, which were countered/supplanted by UAS, which are already being countered by EW, deception, CUAS teams and counter UAS systems and so it goes on. Electronics both hardware and software and the constant human desire to be on top of any threat and hold an advantage drive this pace of change to constantly increase.
The future targets, if they are not already in the cross hairs, will be the sites where and from which UAS and other uncrewed systems are prepared, deployed and operated and even made. This will drive them underground and require defending. Were they not called strongpoints?
Surely the message is that digging will continue, defence probably infantry based, probably aided by counterattack forces frequently infantry heavy, will continue to reign supreme and even if the next shiny bit of kit manages to overcome defence, countermeasures will rapidly appear and the advantage will be transitory. What is required is thinking through how to make systems more resilient, flexible and holistic. This implies a faster turnaround in modification and development of systems, an understanding that platforms need crewing and protecting but the delivery systems will probably be uncrewed precision systems, and they need to develop at frightening speed.
Well so what. Firstly this speedier development is not cheap. More money is needed in the development chain accepting that by the time entry into service is achieved the system will need upgrading or replacing. Development needs to be faster and constant, probably planned incrementally changing and continuous rather than revolutionary, again not cheap and therefore more money needed.
Secondly platforms may well need to be multi capable and concepts original or unexpected. Can transport aircraft be used to launch multi UAS simultaneously from high altitude as an off the wall example? Can unmanned ground systems be buried to be activated when an enemy has moved past them.
Thirdly some ideas and equipment may never be used, one hopes none of will be. Being able and capable might help achieve that. Again, not cheap but nevertheless ideas need to be explored. Exotic and yes more money, it just has to be found. Oh and so do the people to operate and protect them and the platforms to deploy them from.
Fourthly procurement needs to be driven more by Jules Verne and Izaac Asimov than Sir Humphrey or recognised by Max Webber or Jacques Claude Marie Vincent de Gournay, the defining inventors of bureaucracy, with an understanding that some ideas and programmes will be wasted. However, the pace of change is relentless and if you do not try you will die and if you do not have enough military mass you will die and if you wait for Sir Humphry you will die. Money and innovative procurement are a start to winning in the modern battlespace, land sea or air.
In short more money, faster turnarounds and don’t become wedded to an idea, often theoretically cheaper, as the answer to someone’s prayers. Events, including those generated by the enemy will force people to change their mind and there needs to be options B, C, D….. available to deal with someone doing the same or similar technology navel gazing and coming up with other shiny bits of kit. Pining your colours to a single mast is dangerous.
The solutions are expensive but like democracy the alternatives are so much worse. Oh, and don’t forget experience and The Constant Tactical Factor because some things never change but they all do. I am reminded of going for my regimental interview and selection board whilst at The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Senior General to little me “Two questions! What is the role of the Infantry? Why do you want to join?” Me “General there will always be a role for the Infantry whether it’s in squares at Waterloo or as a starship trooper, we will be around for ever. I may as well join the best”
Babcock Immersive Training Experience
The Babcock Immersive Training Experience (BITE) offers a new and improved way of trainingdelivering an enhanced realism which bridges the gap between the classroom and live operations.
Enter the BITE module for a training scenario and you’ll be exposed to operationally accurate effects such as tailored soundscapes, seismic movements and generated aromas - all while data is being collected and assessed from the control room.
By exposing users to immersive scenarios with real world effects, BITE accelerates mission readiness by taking war昀ghters closer to the front line than any other product.
The deployable, modular and scalable design enables BITE to adapt to all training needs and requirements - driving value for money and greater training outcomes to customers.
HIGH PERFORMANCE SEALING SOLUTIONS
O-Rings & Bonded Seals registered in NATO systems
GLOBAL LEADER IN SEALING SOLUTIONS
For 170 years, Hutchinson has been specializing in the in-house formulation of rubber compounds with certifications for PMUC, drinking water, or fire resistance, to offer solutions that fully meet customer requirements.
We design and manufacture a wide range of sealing solutions, such as O-Rings, Bonded Seals, accompanying the aerospace and defense industry to ensure the safety and smooth operation of their equipments and vehicles.
Hutchinson plant in Château-Gontier achieves AeroExcellence Bronze level
Hutchinson is proud to announce that its O-Ring manufacturing site in Château-Gontier-sur-Mayenne has reached bronze level by AeroExcellence, the universal standard for operational excellence recognized by the aerospace and defence community.
After obtaining the EN 9100 aerospace certification in 2021, the Château-Gontier plant was evaluated according to the AeroExcellence framework launched by the French Aerospace Industries Association (Gifas).
The AeroExcellence assessment is a mark of confidence for partners and customers, ensuring that processes meet the most stringent aerospace and defence requirements in terms of operational excellence, the environment and cybersecurity.
This rigorous assessment took place from Tuesday 22 to Thursday 24 April 2025 and focused on organisational and
resource management, planning and logistics, supplier management, industrialisation and quality, and production excellence.
"We are very proud to have reached the Bronze level in the AeroExcellence evaluation. This result reflects the dedication and hard work of the teams to achieve excellence in all aspects of our business. We will continue to innovate and improve our processes to contribute to a high level of excellence in the Aeronautics sector and to meet the expectations of our customers and partners." said Ludovic Duval-Arnould, Industry Sales Manager at Hutchinson.
About Hutchinson
A global leader in sealing solutions, Hutchinson designs and manufactures O-Rings, Bonded Seals, and tailor-made solutions for various industrial sectors including aerospace, automotive, and defence, ensuring a high level of quality and constant regulatory compliance. With 40,000 employees across 25 countries, the French group achieves a turnover of 4.8 billion euros, with the ambition and mission to contribute to safer, more comfortable, and more responsible mobility for the future.
Powering Readiness:
The Strategic Role of Generator Rentals in NATO Exercises
Modern military exercises, especially those on the scale conducted by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), require an immense level of coordination, resources, and infrastructure.
Among the many logistical needs often overlooked is the consistent and reliable supply of electrical power. As NATO operations increasingly simulate real-world scenarios, the demand for mobile, adaptable, and dependable energy solutions grows. In this context, the strategic use of rented generators plays a critical role. This article explores why generator rentals are essential to the success of NATO exercises and how they contribute to overall readiness and mission success.
The Scale and Complexity of NATO Exercises
NATO exercises are vast, multi-national events designed to test interoperability, communication, rapid deployment, and combatreadiness among member states. Exercises such as Trident Juncture, Steadfast Defender, and Defender-Europe involve thousands of personnel, dozens of national contingents, and operations spread across various terrains and climate zones.
To coordinate such large-scale events, temporary bases, command posts, medical units, communication hubs, and logistics centers must be established rapidly. These temporary installations often occur in locations without existing infrastructure, making a reliable power supply not just helpful but mission-critical.
Why Not Fixed Infrastructure or Own Equipment?
While NATO members possess their own power equipment, relying solely on internal resources presents several challenges:
• Availability: Member nations may not have sufficient equipment available due to concurrent deployments, maintenance cycles, or national needs.
• Interoperability Issues: Differing standards, voltages, and equipment types can hinder seamless integration.
• Cost-Efficiency: Renting generators for specific periods avoids the capital expenditure and maintenance responsibilities associated with ownership.
Advantages of Generator Rentals
The rental model offers several benefits tailored to the dynamic requirements of military exercises:
• Flexibility: Generators of varying capacities can be sourced and scaled as needed.
• Rapid Deployment: Rental providers often have logistics capabilities to deliver and set up units on short notice.
• Technical Support: Many rental agreements include on-site support, ensuring uptime and minimizing the risk of operational disruptions.
• Modern Equipment: Rental fleets are typically updated with the latest technology, ensuring fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and compliance with current regulations.
• Redundancy: Backup systems can be added easily to ensure continuity in case of failure.
Powering the Mission: Real-World Use Cases
Several examples illustrate the critical role generator rentals play in NATO exercises:
• Field Hospitals: Temporary medical installations require consistent power for lifesaving equipment, lighting, and climate control.
• Communication Networks: Satellite uplinks, data centers, and mobile command units all rely on uninterrupted power to function.
• Base Camps: Accommodating hundreds or thousands of troops involves power for cooking, sanitation, heating/cooling, and administration.
• Training Simulations: High-tech training systems, including virtual reality environments and battlefield simulations, are energy-intensive.
Without reliable generators, these critical components would be at risk of failure, undermining the entire exercise.
Environmental Considerations
Environmental sustainability is an increasing concern for NATO and its member states.
Modern generator rentals often include:
• Low-emission models: Designed to minimize environmental impact.
• Hybrid systems: Combining diesel with solar or battery technology.
• Fuel management: More efficient consumption and reduced logistical burden.
By working with reputable rental companies, NATO can align operational needs with environmental goals.
Strategic Partnerships and Local Engagement
Generator rental also opens opportunities for cooperation with local industry. Engaging local suppliers:
• Boosts local economies
• Facilitates regional integration
• Improves logistics through proximity
• Enhances civil-military cooperation In exercises conducted in Eastern Europe, the Baltics, or the Arctic region, local rental partnerships have proven vital in ensuring energy supply continuity.
Planning and Procurement Considerations
Integrating generator rentals into NATO exercises requires forwardthinking procurement and planning:
• Early coordination with logistics and engineering units.
• Standardization of requirements across units and member states.
• Vendor vetting to ensure reliability and security compliance.
• On-site training for military personnel on generator use and basic troubleshooting.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Mobile Military Power
The future of power supply in military exercises is evolving. NATO is exploring:
• Smart energy grids: Adaptive systems that distribute power efficiently based on demand.
• Increased use of renewables: Solar and wind integrated into field operations.
• Autonomous energy units: Self-deploying and self-regulating generator systems.
Generator rental companies that invest in innovation and militarycompatible technologies will be key enablers of this future.
Conclusion
In the theater of modern military preparedness, power is not just an enabler—it is a weapon. Without electricity, communication falters, medical support stalls, and operations grind to a halt. Generator rentals offer NATO a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective solution to ensure energy resilience during exercises. As global tensions persist and readiness remains a priority, the demand for strategic energy partnerships will only grow.
By recognizing the indispensable role of mobile power—and securing
info@skpab.se
Tel: +46 20 226600
www.skpab.com
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?
The Need for Stabilizing Unmanned Surface Vessels
Quantum’s new e-FIN - the future of stabilizing the unmanned fleet Reliability is
not just
a requirement, but a need.
There have been many advancements in military technology in recent years, but few as ground-breaking as Quantum’s fully electric stabilizer, the e-FIN. The built-in capacitor technology allows for power savings and power smoothing capabilities. Furthermore, extended service intervals along with little to no crew required for operations or maintenance, are added advantages.
The Rise of the Unmanned Surface Vessel
In recent years, navies have started to diversify and modernize their fleets. A combination of different vessel types, including multi-role support vessels, extends operational capabilities across more platforms and prevents a fleet from being too broadly focused. Hereby, Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV’s) are relatively low-cost, high-endurance solutions with ample capacity for carrying various modular payloads. USVs are also favored by navies for their ability to operate over greater distances, without the limitations of human endurance. They are suitable for long-duration missions while having the ability to support larger fleet operations.
Why Stabilize an Unmanned Surface Vessel?
• Data Quality: Sensor data output can be affected by vessel motion. A more stable platform, enhances the quality and value of the assets’ data output.
• Stable platform for munitions: A stable platform ensures accurate targeting and safety of onboard assets.
• Safe underway refueling: No docking required for refueling operations – ensuring capabilities at higher sea state.
• Increased sea state for helicopter landings: Securing helicopter maneuvers for take offs and landings.
• Preservation and survivability: A good stabilizer will increase the longevity of equipment and structural integrity of the vessel.
• Operations at a higher sea state: Limited crew can operate safely and effectively regardless of sea state.
Features of the e-FIN
Quantum’s e-FIN is the company’s first-ever, fully electric stabilization system and is the result a collaboration between 15 of Quantum’s inhouse Engineers and Naval Architects from the US and The Netherlands. Its design started with a “clean sheet of paper” approach and makes it unique to any other electric stabilizer on the market. The key features of technology behind the e-FIN are:
The E6 Controller & HMI Screen
The new E6 Control is based on the latest 5000S Control platform and features full capabilities for Quantum’s Remote Access Service. This enables remote troubleshooting and/or making refinements to the control system, without time delays or the expense of a site visit. Additionally, the E6 Controller features an active maintenance algorithm and modular programing for independent functionality, which is wellsuited for the unmanned application.
Energy Storage System through Capacitors
The e-FIN’s innovative capacitor technology makes operations considerably more efficient than a traditional power unit. In addition, the e-FIN storage system can be charged when the fin movement is low, and discharge energy to the drive motor when fin movement increases. Furthermore, in underway mode, the fins can recover energy, that can be stored for future use.
Benefits of an e-FIN for Unmanned Surface Vessels
The e-FIN offers the latest in stabilization design and engineering and comes with numerous advantages:
• Smaller hull unit & fewer components
The smaller size of the hull unit compared to a traditional one, along with fewer components to install, makes the e-FIN easier and faster to install and service.
• In-house custom designed reduction gearbox
The e-FIN’s purpose-built gearbox is capable of handling over 10 million cycles, extending service intervals beyond any traditional system and doubling the service interval to 16,000 hours.
• Minimal Heat Dissipation & Quieter than a Traditional Hydraulic System
The e-Fin doesn’t require any cooling due to the efficiency of the system. With fewer noise generating components, it is the quietest system Quantum has built to date.
• Certified and Easy to Connect
Quantum’s e-FIN easily connects to AC or DC Bus, making it suitable for Unmanned Surface Vessels with a plug and play operation. Its electric power unit (EPU) is designed to meet electrical safety requirements and is compliant with EEE45 rules, DNV, Lloyds and ABS and CE Certified.
• All Aluminum Construction
The e-FIN has the best weight to torque/power ratio, making it very compact without needing to sacrifice system efficiency.
Why Stabilize Unmanned Surface Vessels with a Quantum e-FIN
In a world where navies are allocating significant, financial resources into “unmanneds,” it is necessary to secure these assets with proper stabilization. The Quantum e-FIN is capable of running continuously for over 30+ days, without service, making it perfectly suited for unmanned applications with minimal to no crew. Additionally, the system’s power savings through the proprietary capacitor technology make operations more sustainable and budget friendly.
Finally, the e-FIN was developed with the unmanned platform in mind. This effective and efficient form of stabilization will enable Unmanned Surface Vessels to protect the integrity of the vessel and its assets, operate a higher sea state and provide a secure platform for munitions.
Are you intrigued? Head to:
https://quantumstabilizers.com/products/e-fin-electric-system/ for more information on Quantum an the e-FIN, or contact sales@quantumstabilizers.comadvantages, higher reliability and greater efficiencies at sea.
e-FIN Assembly
DEFENCE SUPPLY
A WHOLE BODY CONTACT SPORT WHICH TAKES PLACE BOTH ON AND OFF THE PITCH - SSL AND THE PROVISION OF HELICOPTER UNDERWATER EGRESS TRAINING (HUET)
Over the course of the last three years articles in MS&T about Survival Systems Limited (SSL) and the provision of HUET utilizing SSL’s Modular Egress Training Simulators (METS®) brand have shown that there is both rhyme and reason to how SSL operates.
The company’s approach is a rounded all-encompassing activity designed to provide customers, clients, investors, users, students, and maintainers with a turnkey solution to both long term and
whole life solutions if not more since the METS® frequently outlast the platform type in service. Included in the bargain is helping to save lives of those individuals unfortunate enough to find themselves in distress. Truly whole life.
This article is about support, often the last thing on the clients “to do” list but actually it is one of the first issues that should be considered. If a company and a client are good at their work, support should start before the concept stage. The first activity is advising the client on the options for approaching the problem involving the art of the possible in the timeframe under discussion with the money that is available. Experience is invaluable at this stage. With HUET it involves the concept of training, where that concept fits into the training system, cycle and ethos, and critical factors such as infrastructure and similar issues. Too frequently
beset with a customer mind frame and financial model that emphasises bricks and mortar above other issues the HUET provider is forced to work within an existing, or designed and approved, building envelope rather than being able to design the building around the training system from the outset.
Being presented with an envelope into which a system must be crammed is nothing new. The author has seen it replicated in several other fields not just HUET. Being good engineers, defence suppliers will always come up with a solution but in their heart of hearts they, and the clients, especially the users, know it could have been so much better, probably less money and more capable and flexible too. Part of this is a deep seated belief within Treasuries that a project has to be defined within an inch of its life and all the “t”s crossed “i”s dotted and every column of numbers added up from top to bottom. These then become targets. Failure to give certainty the targets will be hit leads to cancellation or amendment of the project. Over the lifetime of any project life simply is not like that and cancellations and amendments just cost more money. To turn the argument on its head when has any Treasury ever been right about anything? Far better to define the purpose, by all means spend time on this, not whether the bolts are M10 or M12. Instead allow people to come up with solutions then look at the figures and look at those figures in the context of the system, its life, and whole life costs as well as the advantages the entire system bestows and the problems taking a piecemeal approach or not having the system will cause. Current mindsets simply make acquisition of meaningful defence capability more and more difficult.
Having established that support starts before conception, it is important to understand that it continues through gestation and life until after death. Get this stage wrong and the support costs become larger and larger. Some would say change the support mechanism e.g. outsource maintenance to a specialist support company. All that does is sell the originator’s IPR to a third party creating a competitor and removing the incentive to innovate or produce at reasonable cost keeping a weather eye open for future programmes. It also prevents the feedback of information to the central design authority where knowledge rests. It ensures that ideas and lessons are not incorporated into modifications and development rather than should a problem be identified, sending people rushing for lawyers’ telephone numbers.
So how to overcome these issues. First and foremost, Treasuries must recognise there are different ways of harvesting efforts put into innovation. In many cases it is not about making a lot of money at point of sale and then retiring. It is about continuing to enable the company to grow so that owners and workers can see a future. The legendary golfer Arnold Palmer once said, “The more I practice the luckier I get.”. Apply that to the defence field and the more a company gets involved in defence and understands the depth and breadth of the requirements the better it and its products will become. To take this a stage further the Mk 1 equipment may well be good, but the Mk2 will improve performance and many other issues making it more durable and easier to operate and maintain.
This process reduces costs of procurement, ownership, and operations as well. If the OEM is changed every time there is an upgrade and that OEM does not benefit from the ingrained knowledge of looking after the equipment, the capability upgrades will become a series of irregular steps rather than a smooth exponential progression. From its outset SSL has rejected short irregular steps and works on developing long-term relationships, supporting whole life not just in meaning but in practice. Whole life support means just that.
There is then a need for clients, especially defence clients, to engage with companies, other innovators, and manufacturers early in the process and not discourage resourcefulness with regulation and procedures. Improved engagement occurs when teams from both sides of the fence are routinely discussing issues and getting to understand each other’s intentions, mindset and aspirations. Too often the dreaded phrase, “Sorry I am not allowed to discuss that.”, is trotted out when everyone knows it is exactly what needs to be discussed.
Thirdly, there needs to be attitudes of: “That looks good or sounds useful, can we try it, or can you make some prototypes so we can try it and see?”, “OK I understand what the issues are, have you
thought about this as an approach?”, “Where can we make this work better and maintain the warranty and improve the results in the most cost effective way?” When none of these happen usually where people have tried, and usually failed, to capture the issues on paper and then in a contract failure beckons. What is required is deep understanding of the use, life and times of the system.
Finally cost of ownership is frequently about longevity of equipment. That increases with dedicated maintenance and logistic teams working together to make certain the equipment is improving, meets warranty requirements and allows for in service upgrades. Employing a “Spanners and Screwdrivers R’Us” approach to maintenance rarely works as well. From its inception SSL has taken an holistic approach to Underwater Egress Training utilizing METS ® in conjunction with SSL’s personnel rated lifting systems, other training equipment such as the Helicopter Rescue Training Similator (HRTS™) in an environmental effects Survival Training Simulation Theatres (STST™) believing that by doing so:
• Whole life costs/costs of ownership are reduced
• Fewer training days are lost to mechanical and electronic issues
• The systems work together better with a common design and implementation team supported by a maintenance team that is frequently assisted by people involved in design and manufacture. They own the equipment as well as the owner!
• Throwing together components from different manufacturers to make a system, inevitably results in
rough edges. Understanding what the system has to do, how to integrate, and where it does it, allows the jig-saw pieces to fit together more naturally.
• Being a user/maker team reduces rough edges resulting in less need for modifications.
• Upgrades become seamless because there is progression. It’s like a child developing to being a toddler then adolescence and becoming an adult. They are not born adult.
• Safety is as far as possible built in because people understand the issues. This allows the manufacturer to issue longer warranties. Then because they have owned the maintenance, when units are no longer needed, systems can more easily be repurposed with other users
• There is a higher degree of commonality and certainty across training standards.
Support fits across these issues. It allows the designer and IP owner to collect experiences, theirs and the users, and incorporate them into upgrades and future equipment. The synergies of this arrangement are frequently exhibited in the motor racing industry. An issue identified in one race is frequently redesigned, tested and incorporated into a car by the next meeting. Defence is like that too. Continuous development is a necessity. Sitting smugly on your backside with a new shiny bit of kit ignores the enemy who will work jolly hard to defeat that new shiny bit of kit. It was ever thus. Whilst a HUET training system might not be as time sensitive as something used in combat it
might deal with an issue which will take a life if left unresolved. It allows assets to be employed more effectively, holistically and may well lead to airframe upgrades, configuration changes, or replacements being dealt with more quickly and for less money because the HUET evolves rather than starts anew.
Support also enables real monetary savings. Working closely with the French Navy, La Marine nationale also informally known as La Royale (The Royal One) SSL has radically changed training in underwater egress. Previously egress training was carried out in two basic stages. The first involved use of a hydraulicallyoperated Egress Training simulator in a pool, the second at sea with all the costly activities and issues required to ensure safety; rescue diver swimmers, rescue boats and helicopters, parachute and dropping aircraft or helicopters, crews and additional safety teams often drawn or stood by from other duties, suitable meteorological and sea conditions and when one is not available/right the whole having to be reformed on another suitable day. Time and money wasted. Innovative and pragmatic, the French have opted to cancel the second “at sea” phase instead using a Survival Training Simulation Theater (STST™) (another SSL support facility) to accurately simulate at sea conditions. A little more Capex spent but a huge Opex saving many times that amount on an annual basis. In addition, by consistently replicating sea conditions, training is consistent and qualifications have the same meaning and worth. Wins on many levels and what support is all about.
Pulling all the factors considered in these articles:
• R&D, managed by the peerless Mike Taber and the late Dr Chris Brooks, that lays the foundations of science and engineering behind the products and concepts
• Engaging with potential clients before items are specified to ensure the client gets the best value for their money across the whole life of a unit and programme
• By early engagement making certain the client, especially the user buys into the solution and gets what they need
• Understanding the need for unit fidelity leading to accurate representation of the platform appropriate to the training
• The financial aspect leading to modular design resulting in multi vessel configurations easily changed using only one lifting platform and radical thinking about training concepts and procedures
• A system of systems with the lifting system and the METS® matched to the control system to ensure maximum safety in a dangerous activity
• A maintenance and certification team that brings the manufacturing and design team into the day to day involvement with the deployed units and their operators
• Factory/company qualified maintenance personnel and teams who can recertify units and training staff, lengthening warranties and ensuring that when a user has finished with a unit, they can gain best value through SSL who can repurpose them as they are replaced
• Commonality of standards and procedures ensuring better and more international and inter service operability.
It can be seen that SSL makes certain that support is embedded in everything they do to ensure the customers and users get the best value for money from these innovative systems.
NP AEROSPACE UK DEFENCE FACILITY
NP Aerospace, the global vehicle integrator and armour manufacturer, has formally opened its new 5.73-acre facility in Coventry, supporting UK job growth and global defence needs.
The opening ceremony was conducted by Mary Creagh CBE, MP for Coventry East and NP Aerospace’s leadership team and workforce.
Located in Coventry, the 80,000 sq. ft. indoor site and large outdoor space for military vehicle fleets, will enhance vehicle integration, armour production, and engineering capabilitiescreating jobs and strengthening the UK supply chain.
New Facilities
Facilities include vehicle assembly, fabrication, customer support and spares, engineering development, specialist equipment handling, machining and final finishing, and sustainable energy production.
L-R James Kempston, CEO NP Aerospace, Mary Creagh CBE, MP for Coventry East, David Petheram, MD and SVP VSSS.
The new site is also situated close to NP Aerospace’s armour production site in Foleshill, the area of the city where the company was established as part of Courtaulds Group, approaching 100 years ago.
NP Aerospace Growth and Investment
NP Aerospace is a trusted global supplier of defence-related products and services for UK MOD and global defence forces. With this new facility, NP Aerospace is in the ideal position to deliver greater capacity for UK-based assembly and integration of full or partial defence systems, including vehicles and armour, for military customers and vehicle OEM industry partners. It also demonstrates NP Aerospace’s investment in the development of people, skills, and engineering know-how, whilst supporting growth in domestic and export business.
Mary Creagh, MP for Coventry East MP, said: “It’s a great pleasure to open NP Aerospace's latest UK defence facility, here in the heart of Coventry. Last week, the Prime Minister showed he knows what it takes to deliver the deals we need for economic growth. This means well-paid skilled jobs, more money in your pocket, and more access to markets so UKbased companies like NP Aerospace can thrive. By opening this new facility, NP Aerospace is expanding their export capabilities and strengthening the UK supply chain. NP Aerospace already has a strong reputation in this city, in the
industry, and internationally. In seeing this new facility for myself, I understand why.”
James Kempston, CEO of NP Aerospace, commented: "I’m thrilled to be opening our new UK facility today, and I’d like to thank Mary Creagh MP for joining us to cut the ribbon and mark this important milestone alongside our team. This investment represents a major step forward for NP Aerospace, strengthening the foundations for our continued growth. As a key defence employer in the West Midlands, we remain committed to developing our people, advancing skills and know-how, and expanding our engineering capabilities— delivering lasting benefits to both the region and the wider UK economy."
LEADING COATING SUPPIERS
DEFENCE READY COATING SOLUTIONS
For over a decade, Trimite has been a key supplier of DEF STAN and specification coatings to the defence industry. Our coatings are engineered to protect and perform under the most demanding conditions, with a comprehensive range that includes: CARC, IRR, and non-slip products
Primers, Intermediates, Undercoats, and Finishes
Single-pack air-drying and stoving systems
Two-pack epoxy and polyurethane coatings
MISSION-CRITICAL CARC COATINGS
As the threat of chemical weapon attacks increases, Chemical Agent Resistant Coatings (CARC) have become essential for safeguarding personnel and equipment. Specified by the UK Ministry of Defence and approved by the UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratories (DSTL), Trimite’s CARC coatings are trusted to: Enable effective decontamination of equipment. Support rapid return to operational readiness.
Our CARC solutions feature prominently in major European military programs, including the Mastiff, Ridgeback, Jackal, and Warthog armoured vehicles. We’re also proud to have contributed to a wide range of Urgent Operational Requirements (UOR), delivering high-performance coatings when they’re needed most.
TRIMITE’S NATO GREEN: ENGINEERED EXCELLENCE IN A TRUSTED DEFENCE ICON
NATO Green stands as a foundational element of Trimite’s defence coatings portfolio. Renowned for its effective camouflage properties, it is the preferred choice for woodland and temperate operational environments. Trimite ensures exceptional colour consistency, meeting the military’s exacting standards for long-term durability and resistance to fading.
The uniformity of NATO Green across all production batches reflects Trimite’s commitment to precision manufacturing and rigorous quality control. This consistency guarantees that every application delivers the performance and reliability expected of a true defence-grade coating.
BUILT ON INNOVATION. TRUSTED FOR DEFENCE
With more than 80 years of expertise, Trimite Global Coatings has earned a reputation as a trusted and dependable partner to the defence industry. Synonymous with reliability, innovation and uncompromising quality, Trimite delivers solutions that not only meet the stringent requirements of DEF STAN 80-225 but consistently exceed client expectations. Through close collaboration with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Trimite plays a key role in equipping military assets to perform in today’s complex and demanding operational environments.
Trimite’s dedication to excellence is further reflected in its active membership in the British Coatings Federation (BCF) and the Made in Britain affirming the company’s commitment to British manufacturing and its leadership on the global defence stage.
DEF STAN 80-225: PROVEN PROTECTION
DEF STAN 80-225, established by the UK Min standards globally for military coatings. It sets extreme environments from the intense heat temperatures of the Arctic. Trimite’s DEF exceptional durability and protection, having s testing conducted by the Defence Science an Down, a testament to their proven reliability.
For Trimite, achieving DEF STAN 80-225 c reflection of an ongoing commitment to inno equipment continue to evolve, Trimite stays technologies that not only meet today's string the challenges of tomorrow.
BUILT TO SHIELD
Trimites DEF STAN 80-225 compliant system is s standards required by the UK Ministry of Defence. but ensures equipment durability in extreme enviro to the UV-intense deserts of the Middle East. E critical role in creating a robust, high-performance
At the core of this system is SurTec 650, a cuttin for aluminium and other metals. It delivers supe making it an ideal foundation for subsequent coa RoHS regulations, SurTec 650 represents an exceptional durability under extreme environment suited for demanding marine and aerospace applic
HP20 Etch Primer, a high-performance solutio between the pretreatment and the topcoat. Suitab HP20 offers excellent flexibility, corrosion resistanc integrity of the coating system, delivering durable demanding environments.
Trimite D00383 is a premium polyurethane p applications. Developed with advanced techno versatility, and protection. This innovative primer abrasion and environmental exposure, ensuring lo extreme conditions. Designed for ease of use, it adhesion and a high-quality finish with minimal industry standards, Trimite D00383 is fully co Resistant Coating) systems, making it ideal Purpose-built for mission-critical equipment, it sig performance of the coating system.
Completing the system is the D00294 NATO compliant with DEF STAN 80-225 and widely rec This topcoat offers exceptional UV stability, performance, making it the trusted choice for milita NATO Green colour not only provides effective environments but also resists fading and environm
Together, these four products create a comprehe unmatched protection, performance and complianc
nistry of Defence, is one of the most rigorous demanding requirements for performance in of Middle Eastern deserts to the freezing STAN 80-225 compliant systems deliver successfully passed comprehensive CARC nd Technology Laboratory (DSTL) at Porton
compliance is not just a milestone, but a vation. As operational demands on military s ahead by developing advanced coating ent standards but are designed to address
specifically designed to meet the rigorous This system not only provides protection onments from corrosive saltwater regions Each component of this system plays a finish.
ng-edge chemical pretreatment designed erior adhesion and corrosion resistance, atings. Fully compliant with REACH and environmentally responsible choice. Its tal conditions makes it particularly wellcations.
n formulated to ensure strong adhesion ble for both aluminium and ferrous metals, ce and bonding strength. It reinforces the e, long-term protection in even the most
primer engineered for high-performance ology, it delivers exceptional durability, offers superior resistance to corrosion, ong-term reliability even under the most allows for smooth application, excellent effort. Manufactured to meet rigorous mpatible with CARC (Chemical Agent for specialised defence environments. nificantly enhances the overall protective
Green Topcoat, a polyurethane finish ognised for its durability and adaptability. chemical resistance and long-lasting ary vehicles and equipment. Its distinctive camouflage in woodland and temperate ental wear.
nsive defence coating system, delivering ce with the highest military standards.
UNMATCHED EXCELLENCE IN DEFENCE COATINGS
TRIMITE GLOBAL COATINGS: REDEFINING STANDARDS IN MILITARY PROTECTION
Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to excellence, Trimite’s DEF STAN 80-225 compliant coating system has redefined industry standards combining high-performance military-grade protection with exceptional durability and the refined finish required by today’s defence sector.
At the heart of this specification lies a cutting-edge paint system, featuring the D00383 Polyurethane Primer and D00294 NATO Green Polyurethane Topcoat. This system functions as a Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) and incorporates Infrared Reflective (IRR) technology, engineered to withstand the rigours of chemical warfare while minimizing infrared detectability.
Built for the most challenging operational environments, this coating system stands as a top-tier solution. NATO Green, a cornerstone of Trimite’s defence colour range, is widely respected not only for its robust performance but also for its distinctive, iconic appearance.
PRECISION ON THE FRONT LINE: The Critical Role of Resolution in Radiation Detection for Defence
In a time when geopolitical tensions are high and radiological and nuclear (R&N) weapons technology is progressing, we need to keep up.
Speed and accuracy are non-negotiable, but so is high-quality data. Radiological and nuclear incidents are often far from straightforward and therefore require reliable, high-quality spectral data to underpin accurate risk assessments and effective strategic decisions.
Why resolution matters
Resolution is a key factor that influences data quality, impacting the ability of those on the ground and further afield to accurately identify and differentiate between various radioisotopes.
Resolution refers to the width of a single energy peak at a specific energy on a spectral data plot. A higher resolution detector produces energy peaks that are sharper, more distinct and clearly separated, meaning different radioisotopes can be identified with precision. This is particularly important when faced with complex mixtures: radioisotopes with overlapping signature peaks can be distinguished with increased accuracy and confidence.
Medium resolution – a balance between performance and portability
Medium resolution detectors provide advanced isotope identification capability. For instance, the <4% resolution of the D5 RIID allows for a more definitive confirmation of the radioisotopes present. Highly defined spectral peaks give way to increased confidence in remote, secondary adjudications, enabling more informed and timely decisions. The medium resolution of the D5 RIID also enables an accurate adjudication of the origin of the radioisotope(s) detected, further informing courses of action with high quality adjudication spectra. For instance, based on enrichment levels, it can be deciphered whether Uranium or Plutonium contaminants are from naturally occurring sources, or otherwise.
In the cases where multiple isotopes are involved, having a medium resolution detector ensures even the most similar radioisotopes are accurately differentiated during spectral analysis. For instance, Plutonium can be easily masked by medical isotopes of Iodine due to their main energy peaks being very close together. Therefore, to a lowresolution device, this would appear as a truly legal shipment of Iodine, with significant consequences.
The medium resolution and high sensitivity of the D5 RIID allows a definitive confirmation of radioisotopes present in weak, mixed shielded and heavily masked sources. As a result, illicit radioactive sources at a border can be stopped effectively and next steps accurately informed in remediation procedures.
High resolution detectors, although producing extremely precise spectral peaks, are typically less practical for use in Defence applications on the front line or at the site of an incident compared to medium resolution detectors. Whilst supplying users with a sufficient resolution for complex identification, the D5 RIID is optimal for use in the field with its ruggedised build, ease of use and rapid loading speed. Individuals can pick up a D5 RIID and head straight to the site of an incident for precise, real-time in-field spectral analysis.
Accurate identification with safety and without delay
Alongside the high-quality data it supplies, the D5 RIID also ensures those on the ground are primed to take immediate action when necessary with instant alarms and a low false alarm rate.
Remote Mode adds an extra layer of user safety through creating sufficient distance between the user and high-risk environments. The D5 RIID can be mounted onto vehicular platforms and any UGV meaning large areas can be checked for R&N threats and rapid emergency responses initiated. Agnostic data is delivered in real-time to the remote operator via a wired or wirelessly connected device, whilst ANSI N42.42 data files can be sent to remote technical authorities for secondary adjudications.
The rapid reach back capabilities of the D5 RIID along with the ability to integrate it into any existing alarm or communications network ensure remote decision-makers are consistently supplied with actionable intelligence to ensure the appropriate next steps are taken, even in the most complex and demanding situations.
When low resolution takes the stage
Not every mission demands a granular isotope breakdown. More costeffective, lowresolution detectors, such as Kromek’s D3S ID and D3M alerts needed by those completing routine surveillance to act quickly to protect themselves and critical infrastructure. CBRN specialists can then later perform a secondary adjudication with a higher resolution device to attain more detailed spectral data on an R&N incident, further informing next steps.
The D3M has the unique capability of supplying users with RIID quality spectral data alongside high-performance detection. Over 100,000 spectral files can be extracted by CBRN specialists for secondary adjudication. Discreet, wearable and lightweight, the D3S ID constantly scans for radioactive threats. Receiving alerts through Bluetooth via a paired phone or earpiece, the detector is imperceptible to the public or any suspect.
Meanwhile, the D3S ID supplies users with the extra capability of real-time isotope ID, informing context-specific action on the ground discreetly from a paired phone or earpiece. The D3M can be paired with a phone to enable this extra capability of real-time isotope ID as well.
Countering rising risks
As the risk and complexity of R&N threats increases, so must threat detection and identification capabilities. Rapid, accurate, and informed responses are vital and made possible by medium-resolution detectors like the D5 RIID. Striking an optimal balance between fieldready practicality and analytical precision enables confident secondary adjudications and swift, timely decision-making. At the same time, lower resolution devices such as the D3S ID and D3M can provide crucial frontline surveillance and immediate alerts, facilitating constant situational awareness.
Together, these tools form a layered defence strategy, supplying those on the ground as well as remote decision-makers with the right level of insight at the right time, helping to continue to effectively protect the public, those on the front line and critical infrastructure.
Leonardo DRS
TO DEVELOP PROTOTYPE NEXT-GENERATION WEAPONS CONTROL SYSTEM FOR U.S. ARMY M109A7 PALADIN
Leonardo DRS, Inc. (NASDAQ: DRS) announced today that it has received a prototype project award by the U.S. Army to modernize the Paladin Electric Servo Amplifier (PESA) electric weapon control system for the M109A7 Paladin self-propelled howitzer. The OTA award is worth $16.9 million.
The PESA is a critical technology to the operation of the M109A7. Under the project award Leonardo DRS will develop a nextgeneration prototype with current electrical technology to improve the producibility and maintainability of the line replaceable units and enable the continued operation of the vehicle with no degradation to current capabilities.
“Paladin is a mission critical combat system, and our agility and leading-edge capabilities ensure our U.S. Army partner has the necessary capabilities to support
our warfighters for the long term,” said Denny Crumley, senior vice president and general manager of the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business unit. “We are thrilled to be providing this next generation of technology to the Army’s M109A7 Paladin combat vehicle.”
Leonardo DRS is a leading designer, developer, and integrator of sophisticated electrical, electromechanical and electronic systems, subsystems, and assemblies across the U.S. military. The work on PESA is another example
of providing best-of-breed technology and capability to deliver on a wide range of customer needs from electrical power, network computing, and advanced sensing. www.LeonardoDRS.com
PROVEN ON THE BATTLEFIELD. TRUSTED BY THE WARFIGHTER.
The battlefield is no place for compromise.
War昀ghters shouldn’t have to choose between mission-critical performance and innovation. That’s why Leonardo DRS’ proven platform computing & AI, GVA compliant processing systems are both. Our sensor and network integrated systems are linking legacy, current and future capabilities together - connecting war昀ghters to the actionable mission information they need, all while protecting from cyber threats and reducing size, weight, power and cost (SWAP-C) — ultimately enabling situational understanding.
In hypersonic defense, speed and precision win battles — but protection wins missions. ThermoDyne delivers ultra-high-performance thermal systems that endure extreme heat, minimize energy loss, and meet the toughest size and weight demands — key to extending 昀ight time to target.
We don’t just insulate — we engineer thermal intelligence. With decades of innovation in aerospace and defense, we’re the design authority behind integrated thermal protection systems that perform when it counts.
/ F: 00-1-574-293-0047
Available in two sizes, the isofit helmet protection system acts as a liner and protective layer inside the ballistic helmet. This functions as an upgrade of the helmet, offering:
• More comfort
• increased stability
• superior and battle-proven impact protection
• extremely light-weight protection
The patented isofit liner is easily adjustable with one hand by means of a turn dial, operable for both left- and right-handed users. The liner is 360º adjustable, meaning that it snugly fits all around the head, instead of just on the nape and forehead.
The impact protection is provided by SKYDEX pads, which are easily placed with a hook-and-loop system (like Velcro). Derived from the blast-energy mitigating technology which has also been battle proven in 35.000+ armoured vehicles worldwide, the pads protect the operator’s head upon impact by a projectile, adding
to the safety and security provided by the ballistic shell of the helmet. The pads compress, reducing the kinetic energy down to compliant levels. The SKYDEX pads are light weight, easy to place and to clean and still function after impact, outperforming traditional foam solutions in multiple characteristics.
Ballistic Trauma Reduction Layer (BTRL)
Complementing the SKYDEX Isofit helmet Protection System is the range of trauma protection layers for ballistic vests. These thin and lightweight sheets, the BTRL, are designed to be used in synergy with the ballistic plates. Together, they provide optimal protection, significant weight savings and a reduced backface signature and chance of injury after impact. An energy reduction of up to 50% can make the difference between being injured & sidelined and continuing the mission.
Visit www.better-helmet.com for more information about Skydex Isofit Helmet Protection Systems.
Visit www.tssh.com for more information about TSS International BV and Armour Mobility products, such as SKYDEX blast mats, Heavy Duty Runflat Wheel Assemblies, brake upgrades, suspension systems, self-sealing fuel tanks, vehicle intercoms and more.
