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BATTLESPACEC4ISTAR TECHNOLOGIESISSN 1478-3347 Volume twenty three – Issue two November 2020

VEHICLES COMMUNICATIONS ARMOUR COMPUTERS SPACE

The Network for What’s Next

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3BATTLESPACE C4ISTAR TECHNOLOGIES

Contents

Editor: Julian Nettlefold

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Battlespace C4ISTAR Technologies(ISSN: 1478-3347) is published by Battlespace Publications.

Battlespace C4ISTAR Technologies(ISSN: 1478-3347) is published by Battlespace Publications

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In this months issue… News in Brief05 Meggitt Training Systems Announces Name Change to InVeris

Training Solutions06 Aimpoint Fire Control System FCS13RE MW Update08 TCI’s New COMINT Platform Coming in 202110 Kathryn marks milestone at 66 Features12 General Sir Patrick Sanders Lays Down The Digital Gauntlet

At The Airpower Conference By Julian Nettlefold

16 Leonardo DRS – Innovative Integration: Transforming Tactical Command & Control Capabilities By Julian Nettlefold

24 SERCO – A Leading Space Services Provider By Julian Nettlefold Business Feature28 HENSOLDT UK: A reliable partner for over 300 years

By Rohan Dearlove, Sales Director – UK & Ireland

36 Persistent Systems – Networking The Battlefield By Julian Nettlefold40 Spectra appointed as the UK distributor for Comtech Systems42 tpgroup – a trusted partner for innovation and delivery across

the world

Technology Feature44 Connecting the battlespace: A 21st century imperative

for warfighters

48 Oxley & SeaKing Partnership Offers Marine Navigation Lighting & Control System

16

28

36 24

4

Dear Reader,

Welcome to the second digital issue for 2020, click on some of the images and it will take you to videos we have linked. All of the advertisers have links to their websites. We hope you enjoy this digital version.

As the second wave of COVID-19 takes hold in Europe, we are seeing no change in government policy towards live exhibitions. This issue will coincide with the virtual iteration of Global MilSatCom 22020. Global MilSatCom 22020.

The 22nd annual Global MilSatCom Conference and Exhibition will be taking place on the 10th, 11th and 12th November as a virtual event.

As Europe’s leading military communications event for satellite professionals, Global MilSatCom provides an unparalleled opportunity to meet with senior decision makers from defence agencies, militaries, governments and industry from across the globe, providing fantastic interactive opportunities through conference sessions, networking receptions and a virtual exhibition area.

This year, the conference will highlight topics such as SATCOM resilience, hybrid capability, payload delivery, the impact of emergent LEO mega-constellations and more, providing a holistic view of the future of connectivity.

Delegates can expect to hear crucial updates on the SKYNET programme as it evolves into SKYNET 6, discover more about the emergence of the US Space Force and the DoD’s new ‘go fast’ procurement efforts, and explore international SATCOM programme developments, where opportunities for partnerships may be developed.

The understanding of COVID-19 and how to handle the spread of the virus is now better understood and the Armed Forces in particular are playing a major role in the Test & Track system.

As we went to press our readers voted Paul McCarter, leader of Serco’s UK Defence Business as our 2020 BATTLESPACE Businessman of The Year. Many congratulations to Paul, he will be presented with his award at our SSAFA Chepstow Raceday.

Your sincerely,

Julian NettlefoldEditor, Battlespace

Letter from the editor

Front cover: Courtesy of Viasat

http://www.battle-technology.comhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18d-Ck7GVwo


On October 7th Meggitt Training Systems Announced Company Name Change to InVeris Training Solutions. Meggitt Training Systems (the “Company”), the global leader in integrated live-fire and virtual weapons training solutions for military and law enforcement clients, today announced its new name, InVeris Training Solutions, effective immediately. “InVeris” connotes insight and truth. The rebranding reflects the Company’s pride in standing behind the bravest, best-trained men and women around the world and to providing comprehensive training solutions that prepare them to act at a moment’s notice to protect the communities and countries they serve. The Company remains headquartered in Suwanee, GA and partners with clients in the US and around the world from facilities on five continents.

“Over the past few months, we have undertaken a very thorough and thoughtful exercise to more closely align

our top priority. We’ve always backed our clients with quality products, proven innovations and dedicated support. We’ll continue to do that as we move ahead.”

InVeris Training Solutions combines an agile approach with an unmatched expertise in training technology to design and deliver customized, cutting-edge training solutions that keep military, law enforcement, and private and commercial range clients safe, prepared and ready to serve – Because Seconds Matter™. The Company has fielded over 15,000 live-fire ranges and 5,100 virtual training systems globally in its 90-year history, and it is the Simulation Training Program of Record for Domestic and International military forces. The Company’s advanced training solutions prepare clients in more than 55 countries to safely protect the communities they serve.

More information can be found at InVerisTraining.com

Meggitt Training Systems Announces Name Change to InVeris Training Solutions

News in Brief

our name and brand with our values in service of safety,” said Andrea Czop, Vice President of Strategy, Sales and Marketing “InVeris means trust and integrity – values that are core to our clients and that we live every day. Our clients give their all, and we’re honored and proud to serve those who keep us safe with excellence. Because we know that when our clients are prepared, and their people are safe, we all stay safe.”

As part of the rebranding, InVeris Training Solutions has also introduced a new logo, corporate colors, and website, InVerisTraining.com. The Company retains its ownership of its legacy brands, FATS® and Caswell technologies, the industry pioneers in the virtual and live fire training arenas, respectively.

Czop continued, “As we enter a new phase of growth in US and international markets, our commitment to our employees, clients, and partners remains

http://www.InVerisTraining.com

6 News in Brief

Background

Aimpoint’s FCS13RE is Dynamic universal reflex sight (DURS) for use on multiple weapon platforms. It was first developed for the 84mm Carl Gustaf to increase the hit percentage on that weapon system and it performed very well with that. During test firing with the FCS13RE on other weapon systems such as 12,7mm heavy machine gun and 40mm automatic grenade launchers Aimpoint saw that it performed extremely well on those weapon systems despite how small it is compared to other competing systems. FCS13RE MW was on target in the first firing sequence all the time. This is how the FCS13RE MW (multi weapon) came to life and FCS13RE is now in service in roughly 16 countries worldwide on a variety of weapon platforms ranging from M134 Minigun to 84mm Carl Gustaf.

General description

The FCS13RE MW consists of an eye safe 1550nm laser range finder, a ballistic computer with the capability to store more than 50 different ballistic algorithms, and a parallax free

optical channel with unlimited eye relief. The FCS automatically compensates for the ballistic drop of projectiles at measured distances, factoring in variables that affects the trajectory.

It is a direct view optic sight which will give the user full battlefield awareness all the time. The FCS is compatible with all generation’s night visions devices, this mean that the soldier can use their standard NVD to operate the sight during night operations.

The FCS13RE MW compensates for:l Distance to targetl Each munition’s ballistic

characteristicsl Terrain anglel Tilt angle l Propellant temperature l Altitudel Moving target

Aimpoint Fire Control System FCS13RE MW Update

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bH_rDC2nQJY

With the software in the FCS13RE MW you can choose between the following weapon platforms: All generations of 84mm Carl Gustaf, 40mm high velocity AGL such as H&K GMG and machine guns with caliber ranging from 5,56mm to 12,7mm.

FCS13RE can be mounted on which ever weapon platform in the inventory which will dramatically increase the hit percentage.

The user can easily change the sight from one weapon platform to another in a matter of a few minutes. The sight will automatically save the zeroing for each weapon type. Moving targets can be engaged completely dynamically, meaning that a target on unknown distances and unknown speed can be engaged. The red dot will adjust automatically with the correct lead angle and the user only puts the red dot on target and fire.

The FCS13RE MW can program the most common types of 40mm airburst ammunition. This will give the user ability to engage targets in defilade with different program modes so called “string of pearls.” The modern soldier needs to be an expert on a lot of things, with the FCS13RE MW the soldier only needs to know one sighting system for all his heavy weapons. This will greatly reduce the training time and thus cost of training. Very good hit probability reduces ammunition costs significantly.

Attachments

ThermalTH60 is a thermal clip-on that user attach to the FCS, it is an in-line afocal attachment. TH60 generates superior IR imagery ensuring target recognition at the maximum range for increased lethality. Magnifier3XL is a magnifying module with 3x magnification, designed for use together with the FSC13RE. It has a 15-degree field of view which allows the operator to see the full ballistic window.

ONCE AGAIN SELECTED BY THE

US ARMY AND MARINE CORPS

AIMPOINT® FIRE CONTROL SYSTEM - FOR USE ON MULTIPLE WEAPON PLATFORMS

The Aimpoint® FCS13RE is a Dynamic Universal Reflex Sight (DURS) for use on Multiple Weapon Platforms. It greatly increases first round hit probability on both static and moving targets. FCS13RE™ has once again been chosen by the US Army and Marine Corps.

www.aimpoint.com M03515BATTLESPACE C4ISTAR TECHNOLOGIES

http://www.aimpoint.com

8 News in Brief

TCI International, Inc. plans to expand its product line in mid-2021 with a new modular and scalable communications intelligence (COMINT) hardware platform. TCI leverages its 50+ years of RF spectrum expertise to provide the new COMINT platform with higher performance in multiple embodiments to maximize CONOPS flexibility for tactical electronic warfare operations. Performance enhancements include broader instantaneous bandwidths (IBWs); scalable and higher bandwidth digital downconverters (DDCs); faster scan rates; and expanded networking capabilities.

A rack-mounted version provides lower size, weight and power (SWaP) installations for mobile vehicle, shipboard and transportable applications supporting high levels of processing for operational and tactical operations. The new platform is backwards compatible with existing TCI COMINT systems to maximize reuse of existing assets and minimize total lifecycle cost.

A new man-portable version will supplement the capabilities of TCI’s current generation Model 903S with an integrated server processor, enhanced network capabilities and increased battery life in an IP67-rated form factor. These improvements provide electronic warfare platoons enhanced

signal detection, location and identification capabilities and a wider range of deployment options. Special forces operations will also benefit from the enhanced CONOPS flexibility, particularly where unattended covert operations are required.

TCI’s New COMINT Platform Coming in 2021

9

The new COMINT platform will operate TCI’s Blackbird NextGen signal detection, acquisition and processing software with new capabilities including: enhanced spectral shape capabilities; integrated, multi-site networking and data collection; a common emitter database and NATO symbology; and an improved common operating picture (COP). These capabilities improve both the local commander’s ability to rapidly visualize the electromagnetic operational environment and a central command center’s broader view.

TCI plans to implement a new radio frequency machine learning (RFML) capability on the new COMINT platform in 2021. TCI is developing RF signal processing that will apply machine learning to time-series I/Q radio samples and channel measurements, enabling it to learn from data.

RFML employs a form of artificial intelligence (AI) to learn the characteristics of RF signals in order to detect and identify them. The process includes training an RFML engine using real-world RF signals to enable their detection and classification in near real time. By training the system to learn signals from the I/Q representation, systems can achieve better performance than traditional decision-tree approaches. TCI will utilize real-world signals to train the RFML engine, ensuring the neural network is able to rapidly learn new signals and quickly adapt to changing RF environments.

TCI’s RFML implementation, dubbed Blackbird EDGETM, moves signal processing, identification and geolocation to the sensor at the edge of the network – a process known as edge computing. In tactical military deployments, TCI’s innovative solution enables faster RF situational awareness, threat assessment and countermeasures engagement. Blackbird EDGE can move decision-making down the chain of command to the front lines during rapidly evolving engagements, then supply actionable intelligence up the command structure to populate the broader common operational picture.

Thus, military forces can derive both operational and tactical benefits from COMINT / SIGINT without having to choose between the two.

From city streets to high-value assets to theaters of operations, TCI enables you to turn live or recorded signals of interest into actionable intelligence. Our COMINT systems empower you to identify potential threats and suspicious transmissions more easily and effectively than ever before.

Learn how TCI can help you master the spectrum.

tcibr.com

Empowering those who gather intelligence.

TCI126162m_Ad_COMINT_Halfpg_Battlespace_107x297mm.indd 1TCI126162m_Ad_COMINT_Halfpg_Battlespace_107x297mm.indd 1 10/2/20 1:53 PM10/2/20 1:53 PM

BATTLESPACE C4ISTAR TECHNOLOGIES

http://www.tcibr.com

10 News in Brief

Kathryn marks milestone at 66A ‘mature-preneur’ who started her own business at the age of 61 in cutting-edge technology is celebrating a landmark anniversary. Kathryn Clamp launched kc4business Ltd to provide outsource business development and sales support services after she was made redundant. Now she is marking the fifth anniversary of her own business, supporting innovative technology firms across the UK.

Kathryn, who is now 66, said: “Age really is no barrier to success.”

“It is incredibly rewarding to be able to use my many years of experience to support ambitious businesses of all sizes in their growth plans. Many of my clients are on the cutting edge of technology, and it is exciting to combine my experience with their new ideas to achieve results.”

Kathryn added: “To reach my fifth anniversary really is a milestone and I am very grateful to my clients and everyone who has supported me so far. There is plenty to look forward to and be positive about despite the ongoing impact of Covid, which makes relationship building and collaboration between businesses more important than ever.”

Kathryn began her career in Army before working as a business account manager and member of the UK management team at leading electrical component manufacturer E-T-A Circuit Breakers Ltd for more than 20 years. She supports firms from her base in Thame, Oxfordshire, predominately in the rail, defence, energy and aerospace sectors.

Kathryn pre-COVID would have be supporting Parmley Technologies on their stand at DVD 2020. With outsource services, kc4business supports businesses without the cost and need to employ a full-time member of staff. This includes relationship building, support at major trade shows, development of new and existing customers, and following up potential new clients.

Kathryn works in the defence sector with Parmley Technologies Ltd and in rail and defence with Hub Electronics. Parmley managing director Derek Parmley and Hub Electronics managing director Paul Latter were her first clients and remain with her. She is also working in digitalisation with smart remote condition monitoring firm FliteTrak Ltd and decarbonisation with next generation hydrogen energy systems pioneer tpgroup plc. Others she is helping to fly the flag for are NewMet Ltd, Flitetec Ltd and E3 Consultants Ltd.

Kathryn has business and moral support from her daughter Jo Dinnage, who is also a director of kc4business, as well as a wealth of family support. She is a member of the policy committee of the defence trade association NDI, which is part of Make UK. Kathryn is also a consultant member of the Rail Forum Midlands and community partner member of the Rail Alliance. She sat on the SME defence committee of the ADS trade body for aerospace, defence, security and space for many years.

About kc4business

Kathryn Clamp Business Development Services (kc4business Ltd) was founded in October 2015 and is based in Thame, Oxfordshire.

It provides hands-on outsource business development resources for UK manufacturing and distribution companies currently suppling into Rail, Defence, Aerospace, and Energy industry sectors.

Its managing director is Kathryn Clamp. Kathryn is a former longstanding member of the SME defence committee of the ADS trade body aerospace, defence, security and space.

She is member of the policy committee of the defence trade association NDI, a consultant member of the Rail Forum Midlands and community partner member of the Rail Alliance.

Website https://kc4business.co.uk/

Email [email protected]

Phone 01844 215968 and 07484 124614

LinkedIn https://uk.linkedin.com/in/kathrynclamp

Welcome to InVeris!(Formerly Meggitt Training Systems)

We proudly stand with you.

inveristraining.com

At InVeris, everything we do is in service of the people who keep us safe and secure.

That’s why we proudly stand behind the bravest, best-trained men and women around the world - innovating comprehensive training solutions that prepare them to act at a moment’s notice; to protect the communities and countries we have pledged to serve.

Our clients give their all, and we’re honored to work alongside them. Because we know that when our clients are prepared - and their people are safe - we all stay safe.

InVeris Training Solutions: Because Seconds Matter™

https://kc4business.co.uk/mailto:Kathryn.clamp%40kc4business.co.uk?subject=Enquirieshttps://uk.linkedin.com/in/kathrynclamp


Welcome to InVeris!(Formerly Meggitt Training Systems)

We proudly stand with you.

inveristraining.com

At InVeris, everything we do is in service of the people who keep us safe and secure.

That’s why we proudly stand behind the bravest, best-trained men and women around the world - innovating comprehensive training solutions that prepare them to act at a moment’s notice; to protect the communities and countries we have pledged to serve.

Our clients give their all, and we’re honored to work alongside them. Because we know that when our clients are prepared - and their people are safe - we all stay safe.

InVeris Training Solutions: Because Seconds Matter™

http://www.inveristraining.com

12 General Sir Patrick Sanders Lays Down The Digital Gauntlet At The Airpower Conference

General Sir Patrick Sanders Lays Down The Digital Gauntlet At The Airpower Conference By Julian NettlefoldIs Morpheus Dead Before It Starts?

General Sir Patrick Sanders, KCB, CBE, DSO, ADC, Commander Strategic Command, gave an informative and detailed brief at the 2020 Airpower Conference, ‘Information Advantage and Cross Agency Cooperation,’ regarding the future of multi-domain warfare in the Twentieth Century to defeat the advanced tactics being utilised by Russia, China and Iran in particular.

Strategic Command’s message is ‘Cohering Joint Forces to deliver Multi Domain Integration.’ The remit for Strategic Command is to deliver the two key elements of the Operating Concept, to be defence’s integrator and with the strategic capabilities they

hold, to sharpen the competitive edge sub-threshold.

His vision as outlined, reaches far beyond the £11 billion Morpheus Programme, so are we looking at ‘Son of Bowman,’ a tactical system which is already out of date and obsolete before it is even deployed?

It is worth looking at the Morpheus Programme as a comparison to the vision as laid out by General Sanders.

What is the Morpheus Programme?

Morpheus is a £3.2 billion defence

programme delivering the next generation of Tactical Communication and Information Systems (TacCIS) to forces operating in a Land Environment, inclusive of the Royal Navy in the littoral environment and elements of the Royal Air Force. The programme is delivered by the Battlefield Tactical Communications and Information Systems (BATCIS) Delivery Team in conjunction with Army HQ and Joint Forces Command. Morpheus will give access to fully integrated operational information technology that simplifies the user experience, allowing units to focus on the mission.

Morpheus is the first installation of Defence as a Platform (DaaP) in the

https://www.airpower.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Presentation-by-Gen-Sir-Patrick-Sanders-1.mp4


tactical environment. By evolving the current Bowman system into the next generation of tactical communications, Morpheus enables evolutionary capability development in a way that has been impossible before.

The benefits Morpheus will deliver to the frontline soldier include:l improved end-to-end shared situational

awareness from soldiers to HQl increased bandwidth and a more

resilient network, allowing soldiers to get the information they need, when they need it

l open architecture enabling interoperability by design, giving the ability to develop and deliver applications in the way soldiers want – leading to better usability and at a faster pace by selecting from across Industry rather than one Prime Contractor

The MoD does not have time on its side or the money to rip up the existing Morpheus timetable as GDUK is already engaged in a £300 million Programme to transition Bowman to Morpheus. In addition, many of the technologies in the Bowman system are reaching the end of their service life and need urgent replacement or upgrade.

Given the breadth of the future requirements outlined by General Sanders, one possibility could be an interim upgrade to the exiting Bowman system using new technologies and upgrades of existing systems such as being undertaken with the DRS rugged computers.

Information Advantage and Cross Agency Cooperation

Why does the Army have to focus on integration?

General Sanders outlined a plan to transition the existing joint operations in an era of industrial warfare. These have not shifted at the pace needed to be an integrated force able to operate and fight in the integrated age. Russia and China have already developed counter strategies to defeat the western method of waging war with its emphasis on full spectrum dominance, reaching the apogee in the First and Second Gulf Wars.

You can see this in the Russian Gerasimov Doctrine and the Chinese emphasis on restricted warfare that was set out as a concept in 1999.

In February 2013, General Valery Gerasimov – Russia’s chief of the General Staff, comparable to the U.S. chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff – published a 2,000-word article, ‘The Value of Science Is in the Foresight,’ in the weekly Russian trade paper Military-Industrial Kurier.

Gerasimov took tactics developed by the Soviets, blended them with strategic military thinking about total war, and laid out a new theory of modern warfare – one that looks more like hacking an enemy’s society than attacking it head-on. He wrote: “The very ‘rules of war’ have changed. The role of nonmilitary means of achieving political and strategic goals has grown, and, in many cases, they have exceeded the power of force of weapons in their effectiveness. … All this is supplemented by military means of a concealed character.”

The article is considered by many to be the most useful articulation of Russia’s modern strategy, a vision of total warfare that places politics and war within the same spectrum of activities – philosophically, but also logistically. The approach is guerrilla, and waged on all fronts with a range of actors and tools – for example, hackers, media, businessmen, leaks and, yes, fake news, as well as conventional and asymmetric military means. Thanks to the internet and social media, the kinds of operations Soviet psy-ops teams once could only fantasize about – upending the domestic affairs of nations with information alone – are now plausible. The Gerasimov Doctrine builds a framework for these new tools, and declares that non-military tactics are not auxiliary to the use of force but the preferred way to win. That they are, in fact, the actual war. Chaos is the strategy the Kremlin pursues: Gerasimov specifies that the objective is to achieve an environment of permanent unrest and conflict within an enemy state.

These states have grown adept at integrating all of the State’s levers of power to gain advantage and initiative, including through trade wars foreign aid, cyber and information warfare and crucially capturing control of key technologies like 5G, AI or space control. This approach broadens the definition of warfare well beyond the boundaries of within which the west’s approach to warfare can be brought to bear. The Strategic Command approach is to pursue integration, joint is no longer enough. Integration must take place across government with allies and across five domains to counter the threat and to protect the UK’s interest. The UK must focus and develop an integrated operating concept with a compatible force structure, one that is credible to deter above the threshold and be more competitive below the threshold and with global reach, to operate consistently and fight when necessary. Concurrently the UK’s adversaries investment in innovation and disruptive information age technology is leaving the UK behind, whether it be in ISR, creating a transparent battlespace, AI or synthetics or the vast power of open source data and cloud computing or indeed by

hypersonics and by previous and long-range multidomain precision fires, equally, integration is not yet ingrained in everything the UK does.

The UK’s approach to equipment procurement is siloed and still sees duplication and inconsistency across the fence which is an inefficient use of the resources the British Army has. Even the most recent capabilities have been fielded as platforms rather than as capabilities, and more starkly when procuring them standardization and integration in and across the domain has not be considered. The Army is not able to capitalise on the vast amounts of data that platforms can deliver as the Army is unable to share, swop or even integrate data at a speed which generates tempo and advantage.

Where does the Army need to get to?

For examples of the exemplar of multi-domain integration and the challenge the Army needs to overcome, look no further than the Chinese and Russian development of anti-access area denial which we can see this playing out in the Eastern Mediterranean right now. The interplay of Russian systems since 2015 from disinformation to the use of hard power has developed their own A2/AD bubble which they can turn on and off at will.

A2/AD is a military buzzword for the ability to deter, at a distance, an enemy’s deployment in a geographic area. With the aid of sensors that can see enemy targets at great distance and by using long-distance missiles, an enemy’s units can be resisted long before they reach their targets. A2/AD systems have been likened to ‘steel domes,’ or ‘bubbles,’ which make it impossible for an adversary to attack targets or send reinforcements to an area.

Active and passive countermeasures

There are several measures for countering A2/AD systems. Some are passive, such as flying around the coverage area of sensors, or stationing troops at a location in good time. Others are active countermeasures, both “soft,” in the form of electronic jamming or chaff dispersed from aircraft, and “hard,” where portions of overall capability are physically knocked out.

“One can neutralise an entire system by knocking out just one link in a functional chain, for example a data link or a fire-control radar. And since seeing over the horizon requires airborne radar, it may then be enough to shoot down the radar aircraft.” says Robert Dalsjö.

General Sir Patrick Sanders Lays Down The Digital Gauntlet At The Airpower Conference14

To support their thesis, the researchers find support from, among other things, the war in Syria.

“There, we’ve seen how aircraft have merely flown detours around the areas where the Russian systems can operate. We can also see that in spite of the fact that the Russians have sold one of their most modern anti-aircraft systems to Syria, the Syrians haven’t managed to shoot down a single Western plane and, in thirty years, only an isolated few Israeli planes.”

However, making Russia’s A2/AD capability into a manageable problem requires commitments, according to the report.

“Western armed forces have long been fighting against poorly equipped adversaries, such as for example the Taliban. Thus, capacity-building and investments are now required in areas such as electronic warfare, countermeasures and guided weapons.” concludes Robert Dalsjö.

To defeat the adversaries in environments like this, the UK must operate across all domains and at high tempo, anything else won’t work, it’s the only way to overmatch.

To do this the UK needs to achieve three things.

1. To integrate the domain but by design with a deliberate Programme.

2. Exploit data through common hosting and standardization.

3. Test and experiment the options virtually and a covertly in a secure or single synthetic environment.

How Do We Get there?

To achieve effects across domains Russia, Chain, Iran and North Korea all emphasise superiority and information as critical to success, the UK needs to do the same. The standardisation of the UK’s network, information exchanges and digital backbone is the critical enabler across everything the UK does. The UK’s networks must for the resilient train track be resilient the bearer data flowing from sensors to effectors. The UK must then exploit the data that is collected and not treat it as effluent.

Firstly, this requires a single cloud environment with computing power that can handle data to all common standards.

Secondly it requires agrees access protocols so that people can trust the data whether it’s our agencies or our allies.

Thirdly, it requires application commonality with an open plug and play approach.

Fourthly a sophisticated tool is required to run across the data, not least AI.

Fifthly it requires a gateway between the classification layers so you can browse down from secret and transfer up from secret.

This requires a quantum shift in the UK’s approach to technology and the need for a UK Digitization DARPA and the creation of an agile software centre that fuses expectation in data analytics, Machine Learning and AI along with robotics, blockchain, synthetics & visualization, quantum technologies and the Internet of Things. These will lie at the heart of data driven and software defined capabilities which will offer Asymmetric operational advantage into the 2030s. As well as a digital backbone, the UK also needs the right support spine for multi-domain integration and the ability to deter by projecting and sustaining our forces at the speed of relevance.

The UK needs to invest in its strategic base; digitization will again be key in the building the capacity we need into the network block the UK’s global strategic base to deliver this ambition. The UK needs a single federated support network to enable exploitation of bulk data that allows us to diagnoses and mitigate systems failure before it’s on us, will significantly enhance the UK’s ability to deliver support at the right time and the right place to avoid stockpiling. All of this underpinning work is geared towards enabling faster and better decision making, routed in deeper understanding from all sources and aided by data analytics and supporting technologies.

As far as Command & Control needed to execute this, the UK must inculcate instinctive inclinations to survey all domains multi-domain force objective. Commanders will need to be able to discern opportunities for advantage across the domain and all the levels of war which will need not just good

information but guile, cunning and emotional intelligence against a backdrop of cross-domain manoeuvre. Division is not one of computers in command but calibrating the level of augmentation according to the complexity of the task. To achieve this, it’s going to be a long journey there are many other lines of operation the UK needs to do; there are many other avenues which the UK needs to pursue.

The UK’s cyber resilience and cyber offensive capability, how we develop greater breadth and depth of special operations capability across domains and across domain to support our world-beating Special Forces. The transparent battlespace and how we build up understanding of synthetics and virtual training.

For now, the case in favour of multi-domain integration is clear and the digital spine for the backbone the UK needs to deliver is essential. Integrating by instinct and by design will deliver capabilities which can deployed to and in and exploit multi-domain to deliver tempo. The greatest value it will offer is the ability to provide UK commanders and politicians with as many effectives much capability to draw on as possible including non-military to apply combinations the adversary cannot expect or guard against.

General Sir Patrick Sanders BIO

General Sir Patrick Nicholas Yardley Monrad Sanders, KCB, CBE, DSO, ADC is a senior British Army officer. He currently serves as Commander United Kingdom Strategic Command.

Born: 6 April 1966 (age 54 years), Wiltshire

Years of service: 1984-present

Commands held: Strategic Command, 3rd (United Kingdom) Division, 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade, Task Force Helmand

Education: University of Exeter, Worth School, Cranfield University

Battles and wars: The Troubles, Kosovo War, Iraq War, War in Afghanistan

Awards: Order of the Bath, Order of the British Empire, Distinguished Service Order.

(Source: Wikipedia)


SMi Group Proudly Presents its 22nd Annual...

VIRTUAL CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION 2020

Europe’s Leading Military Communications Event for Satellite Professionals Conference: Tuesday 10th November - Thursday 12th November 2020

Virtual Conference and Exhibition | Online Access Only

MAIN CONFERENCE MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT SPEAKERS ALSO INCLUDE:

Squadron Leader Rob Bexley, Capability Manager Aerospace C4, Capability Branch, New Zealand Defence Force

Mr Joseph Vanderpoorten, MILSATCOM Advanced Concepts, Portfolio Architect, SMC, US Space Force

Colonel Eduard Schnabel, Branch Head Chief Digitization Officer, German Army

Lieutenant Colonel Seiji Manabe, Deputy Director, National Security Space Section, National Space Policy Secretariat/ Cabinet Office

Mr Charles Cooper, Associate Administrator, Office of Spectrum

Management, US Department of Commerce/National

Telecommunications and Information Administration

Lieutenant Colonel Jamie Mayorga, Head Coordination and

Space Programs, Satellite and Cyber Systems, Spanish MoD

Colonel Shane Taylor, Project Manager Tactical Network,

PEO C3T, US Army

HOST NATION KEYNOTE SPEAKERS: Air Vice Marshal Harvey Smyth, Director Space, UK MoD

Captain David Moody, Deputy Head, Space, UK STRATCOM

Barry Austin, Skynet 6 Program Manager and Deputy Head of Networks, ISS, UK MoD

Commodore (Ret’d) Ian Annett, Deputy CEO for Project Delivery, UK Space Agency

Dr Michael O Callaghan, Space S&T Programme Manager, DSTL

Wing Commander David Black, Skynet 6EC Project Manager, ISS,UK MoD

INTERNATIONAL KEYNOTE SPEAKERS:

Rear Admiral Alfonso Perez de Nanclares, Head of Satellite and Cyber Systems, Spanish MoD

Brigadier General Pantelis Arapis, Assistant Chief Of Staff ACOS J6 Cyberspace, NATO SHAPE

Ms Deanna Ryals, Chief Partnership Officer, SMC, US Space Force

Mr Cameron Stoltz, Director Space Requirements, Canadian Armed Forces

Mr Luke Brown, Assistant Secretary Space and Communication, Australian Department of Defence

Colonel Ryan Gulden, Director, SATCOM Integration, SMC, US Space Force

To keep updated with programme developments or to register, please visit:

www.globalmilsatcom.com/battlespaceADFREE for all Active Military and Government Personnel Only

Global MilSatCom Community #GlobalMilSatCom @SMiGroupDefence

GOLD SPONSOR SPONSORS

EXHIBITORS

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjoC4kZ3i-8&feature=emb_logohttp://www.globalmilsatcom.com/battlespaceAD

16 Leonardo DRS – Innovative Integration: Transforming Tactical Command & Control Capabilities

Leonardo DRS – Innovative Integration: Transforming Tactical Command & Control Capabilities By Julian NettlefoldWhen soldiers’ lives are on the line, detecting and locating the enemy or fellow soldiers on the battlefield is critical. Situational awareness is a crucial part of understanding current conditions in a Multi-Domain Battle environment to ensure the soldier can integrate Army, joint, interorganizational and multinational capabilities that allow him to visualize and create windows of multi-domain superiority through fire and maneuver to positions of relative advantage in decisive tactical and operational level operations for the mounted platform and dismounted user, leader, or commander. To do this, mission command uses a combination of hardware and software to enable centralized interaction while integrating

Command, Control, Computers, Communications, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR). Also integrating Electronic Warfare (EW) platforms and weapons subsystems into one holistic capability can give the warfighters the ability to monitor, control, and interact with the entire system simultaneously.

As an example, in 2014 Leonardo DRS, in partnership with key industry partners, undertook a substantial C4I demonstration of a new tactical command & control system for a Middle Eastern customer. The experience Leonardo DRS had derived from delivering similar capabilities to the US Army on FBCB2 as well as the Mounted

Family of Computer Systems (MFoCS) and with the British Army on Bowman was the basis upon which the Leonardo DRS communications and sensor integration capability has been designed and built. At the core of DRS’ approach to this new C4I capability was a highly innovative piece of technology called the Data Distribution Unit (DDU) also referred to as the ‘Magic Box,’ which enables voice, data, sensor and video applications and vehicle services to be integrated via a common, highly compact line replaceable unit (LRU). This is ideal for a tactical vehicle & command post environment where space is tight and an effective approach to size, weight & power and cost (SWaP-C) is a key requirement.

C5I MISSION SYSTEMS

LeonardoDRS.com/Mission-Command

EW

Fully-integrated networking, communication, power generation and cyber-protected systems deliver the tactical advantage in the toughest environments. Comprised of our Data Distribution Unit (DDU) Tactical Computer, GVA Displays, Vehicle Intercom System, Titan On Board Vehicle Power system and the seamless integration of mission-essential C4 applications and sensors, Leonardo DRS delivers scalable, platform-agnostic mission systems that offer your soldiers the advantage in every domain.

Integrate. Analyze. Visualize. Command.

POWER

VOICE

VIDEO

SENSOR

DATA

VETRON

ICS

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3je_2KC8xU

17

C5I MISSION SYSTEMS

LeonardoDRS.com/Mission-Command

EW

Fully-integrated networking, communication, power generation and cyber-protected systems deliver the tactical advantage in the toughest environments. Comprised of our Data Distribution Unit (DDU) Tactical Computer, GVA Displays, Vehicle Intercom System, Titan On Board Vehicle Power system and the seamless integration of mission-essential C4 applications and sensors, Leonardo DRS delivers scalable, platform-agnostic mission systems that offer your soldiers the advantage in every domain.

Integrate. Analyze. Visualize. Command.

POWER

VOICE

VIDEO

SENSOR

DATA

VETRON

ICS

http://www.LeonardoDRS.com/Mission-Command


On October 14, 2020 Leonardo DRS announced that it has been awarded a contract to provide advanced situational awareness hardware and software for an allied Middle Eastern customer. The total fixed-price contract is worth $44 million.

Under the contract, the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business unit will provide a significant number of tactical mission systems to be installed into a wide range of tactical vehicles and across a number of brigades. At the core of the architecture is the latest version of the Leonardo DRS tactical voice, data and video tactical server, data distribution unit – block 4 (DDU-4), an upgraded digital vehicle intercom system and new

rugged multi-touch commander’s display.

At the heart of the system, the new Leonardo DRS DDU-4 provides class-leading processing capability, an

integrated router, LTE and GPS along with communications cross-banding together with video and voice management. These new products share much of their DNA with the Mounted Family of Computer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lhuYXZJCIg


Systems (MFoCS) II tactical computing products being delivered to the U.S. Army and other allies.

“We are honored to be selected to deliver a world-class tactical C4i capability to support our allies in the Middle East,” said Bill Guyan, senior vice president and general manager of the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business. “Our solutions leverage many of the same technologies used in our products for the U.S. Army’s Mounted Family of Computer Systems (MFOCS) II program. We are proud to be the world’s leading supplier of mission-critical tactical computing and display solutions – a legacy that continues with this important contract award.” he said.

The tactical mission systems are designed to provide an ultra-reliable on-the-move computing capability with the latest cyber secure COTS technologies for mission-critical applications in harsh environments. In addition, the technology will deliver compatibility with other allied militaries using similar systems, including the United States.

Work on the systems will be completed in Melbourne, Florida. Delivery has commenced and will be completed during 2021.

The DDU-3, the version of the DDU used for formative phases of this key project is where all of the primary systems functions meet and get integrated. It is open and agnostic and supports multiple Virtual Machines (VM), one of these supporting the Systematic SitaWare BMS and Mission Planning Application. It also interfaces with the tactical radios. For this Middle Eastern customer as it is with many such systems, the ability to fully utilize the existing tactical communications infrastructure was vital. The DDU’s ability to interface to up to four (4) concurrent tactical radios, potentially each from a different vendor and with disparate waveforms, was a key to providing the voice and data interoperability. An inbuilt Wave-engine

provides the ability to securely cross-band between say a Harris 7850M and Thales PR4G or even a 4G/LTE connected user interface (UI) device. This capability, coupled with the ability to interface the same DDU-3 to SatCom and LTE systems, was a game-changer and provided a degree of flexibility not possible before. The DDU-3 also benefits from an embedded GPS (either commercial or Selective Availability Anti-spoofing Module (SAASM)) and as a backup to GPS, the option of interfacing enhanced long-range navigation (eLORAN) or L-Band for beyond line of sight Blue Force Tracking (BLOS BFT) services is also possible. The DDU-3 can also be interfaced to an INS/INU to provide system applications with a continuous dead reckoning of position and velocity. The DDU-3 was the foundation of delivering smart and cost-effective integration of the communications and sensor environment.

A highly effective Vehicle Intercom System (VIS) solution could also be integrated via the DDU-3, either to the network or standalone via its own Radio Interface Unit (RIU). The Leonardo DRS VIS is a digital-quality and resilient solution to providing cost-effective voice communication within tactical vehicles and command posts. The success of the live evaluation followed by implementation of an initial brigade of the new capability was the trigger for this key customer to roll out the system across additional Brigades where Leonardo DRS will be providing an enhanced version of the DDU in the form of the DDU-4 with upgrades to the Vehicle Intercom System and a new multi-touch Commanders Display.

Peter Hurst, vice president of International Projects & Strategy for the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business said, “The success of our DDU based tactical systems architecture was that it provided a means to integrate and manage extant networks seamlessly while hosting a multitude of new capabilities such as Tactical LTE. The openness of the DDU to host many concurrent third-party applications and integrate with the


vehicles real time systems was also a key enabler as it hands the end user effective control over how they want and need to develop their capability. The DDU does all of this while providing a new level of Cyber security assurance that is essential for today’s modern tactical networked environments.”

As tactical vehicle environments have become more complex over the years, Leonardo DRS has been required to develop new hardware and software capabilities for the DDU. The Galileo Situational Awareness system being delivered to a South East Asian customer integrates several primary vehicles’ systems into a capability that significantly reduces the reaction time taken to engage with this threat. The system also provides the means to share situational awareness both on the platform and with other networked vehicles in the same area of operations, as well as with high-echelon command posts and Headquarters (HQ). An interface connects the DDU and the shot detection acoustic array, with the weapons system turret and the infrared radiation (IR)/day camera and the Battle Management System (BMS).

The system integrates many C5ISR capabilities. A prime example of these capabilities, and one of the primary functions is to detect a

gunshot and locate the source automatically. The system can then geolocate the source of the shot, pass a message to the overhead weapons system and automatically put its weapon and

associated sensors, such as the camera and laser range finder, on the detected threat. The commander of the vehicle is presented with this data, and the related imagery from the weapons system and other vehicle cameras through the high-resolution touch screen display and can, in conjunction with other vehicle crew, decide how to engage with the

threat. This entire sequence takes seconds and dramatically

increases the ability to react rapidly to the threat.

The DDU is also connected

to the BMS and as a result, the

tactical network. The BMS application can be an application

running on the DDU or could be an existing BMS system hosted by another processor. The DDU application has several critical pieces of data that are crucial to sharing any given event with


other vehicles that it is deployed with and can assist in supressing the threat or would benefit from knowing about the threat. The DDU can pass this data to the BMS application, and in turn, the BMS application can plot the details of the detected shot on to a battle map that is shared across the network. Data including azimuth and inclination of the vehicle along with Laser Range Finder (LRF) data can also be shared, significantly increasing the level of situational awareness.

Leonardo DRS understands that enhanced situational awareness capabilities will be required to integrate with the military, civil and non-military land and sea platforms in a multi-domain battle environment. The integration includes hosting a variety of software applications on the DDU and interfacing with the various vehicle platforms, its subsystems, current military and commercial networks, and a variety of existing and new sensor technologies. This integration could potentially include platform sensor integration, leveraging additional military

and commercial radios and networks for failover communications, weapons systems integration, video collection and distribution, etc. Leonardo DRS has

a portfolio of fielded proven capabilities that could enhance any military’s position by providing a set of already developed mature technologies that together will provide enhanced situational awareness. These features include but are not limited to the following: advanced IP routing and switching, sensor integration including weapons systems, commercial and military radio integration, voice cross banding, video integration, Battle Management System (BMS) integration and the ability to leverage commercial cellular networks.

The fact that Leonardo DRS have such established positions with the US Army and Marines via its MFoCS project and are delivering similar tactical mission systems to various other allied nations should have a direct correlation to the needs of UK MoD as they develop their approach to future phases of LE TacCIS projects such as Morpheus, Trinity and NIOBE. At the heart of the Leonardo DRS product offering is a range of proven, off the shelf and sustainable technologies that provide the open systems and scalable infrastructure necessary to build coherent and secure mission systems.

The DDU’s functionality combines traditional computing, networking and distribution technologies into a small form factor, and embedded technologies allow the DDU to be deployed in a non-obtrusive manner without infringing on critical space or power requirements. The DDU provides an ‘everything over Ethernet’ backbone, allowing one or multiple users to access all electronics data within the vehicle. Numerous standard and non-proprietary interfaces are available on the DDU to allow connection to existing legacy mission equipment as well as support future integration requirements.

To learn more visit LeonardoDRS.com/Mission-Command

http://www.LeonardoDRS.com/Mission-Command

22 Caveat Emptor! Satellite 2019 Shows Huge Sea Change In Technology

Mercury Systems completes sensor-to-display performance alignment capability trial at ATDU.

Mercury Systems completed a month-long trial of its advanced vehicle display at the British Army’s Armoured Trials and Development Unit (ATDU) at Bovington, Dorset, UK. Supporting in this evaluation were Kent Modular Electronics, TECNOBIT and Foxbury Solutions.

A next generation of thermal imaging sensor-to-display capability was successfully trialed at the Armoured Trials and Development Unit (ATDU) over the period 10–28 June 2019. This new capability included a latest-generation 10-bit capable thermal imaging Centinela sensor from TECNOBIT (TNB), which provided live 10-bit video with a specific gamma rate correction setting to a 10-bit capable Mercury Systems and Kent Modular Electronics (KME) display.

This capability not only transforms the user experience by furnishing the commander with video that is easier to interpret; but crucially also enables the commander to detect, recognise and identify (DRI) targets and objects at far greater ranges than with legacy, 6–8-bit sensor and display capability on an in-service remote weapon station (RWS).

By using these enhanced capabilities, the commander will be able to effect at greater ranges as well — particularly in the new era of vehicles and weapon load modularity. This capability will enable simpler and faster changes of

weapons systems (both direct and indirect) on a single multi-weapon mount, giving commanders true variety and choice to their tactical capability.

ObjectivesThe objectives of the trial were to:a. Determine the DRI capabilities of a 10-bit video input

display.b. Undertake comparative testing against a current in-

service RWS 6–8-bit based thermal imaging sensor and matched video viewing/control screen.

c. Understand the benefits of the TNB Centinela HD sensor (10-bit) when used in conjunction with the APC/KME display (10-bit).

d. Showcase the combined capability to key UK MoD and Defence Industry personnel.

Jamie Boulet of Mercury Systems said, “Recent advancements in thermal sensors have required MoDs and industry alike to look at developing similarly advanced displays to accommodate images obtained from longer ranges. It is particularly important to avoid collateral damage. Our unique 10-bit technology, addresses this solution. The ATDU trial was undertaken on the basis of an 8 bit vs. Mercury’s 10-bit display. The results exceeded even our expectations.”

Conclusions Mercury Systems believes the trial was successful in proving that in comparison to the legacy in-service RWS, the trialed system of matched HD sensor 10-bit video and

Mercury Systems Inc. 50 Minuteman Road, Andover, MA 01810, USA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-QQS-g5cuU

23

10-bit display appears to have exceeded existing crew DRI capability and provides a much clearer picture at all distances. This new DRI capability is believed to surpass anything in current service with UK Land Forces. As a result, this means that crews should no longer have to rely on additional assets to perform or confirm DRI at increasingly greater ranges. It is worth noting that while the appetite for collateral damage remains very low, the increased detail afforded by these enhanced capabilities allows the operator to make better-informed decisions on engagements, and in so doing, reduces the risk of using imperfect identification information, especially in time-critical situations.

The local situational awareness enhancement afforded by this system is expected to aid operations across the whole mounted fleet; and will undoubtedly reduce collateral damage by increasing positive identification ranges certainty, thereby enabling greater (and more certain) prosecution of targets in low and no light.

It should be noted that this alignment display of thermal imaging and 10-bit video systems was only a first step in determining what is possible today. It is recommended that further testing, both in controlled lab conditions and in an operational context, be performed to provide valuable information and further insight into delivering more precise identification and the potential for engagement.

Target 1,400 metres

Current Technology at maximum range

New sensor and screen wide view

New sensor and screen narrow view

New sensor and screen narrow view x2

Actual target at ground levelwww.mrcy.com

http://www.mrcy.com

24 SERCO – A Leading Space Services Provider

SERCO – A Leading Space Services Provider By Julian NettlefoldBATTLESPACE Editor Julian Nettlefold met up with Paul McCarter, leader of Serco’s UK Defence business, responsibilities include Space, Maritime, Aerospace and Nuclear domains.

“Serco’s involvement in the international space industry has not been widely reported until recently with the formation of your team to bid for the Skynet 6 Service Delivery Wrap in 2019 and your Team Athena announcement in May. Can you give our readers an outline of Serco’s international space activities?” The Editor asked. “Serco’s first space contract was in 1988 to manage the RAF Fylingdales Ballistic Missile Early Warning facility North Yorkshire, UK. In May 2020, Serco was awarded a further three-year contract extension by the UK MoD to continue to provide operations and maintenance support to the Solid State Phased Array Radar (SSPAR), part of the UK/US Ballistic Missile Early Warning System located

at RAF Fylingdales. The current six-year contract ran from 1 April 2014 and was valued at over £15 million. This contract extension is the first of two three year options. Under the terms of the contract, Serco will continue to be responsible for the operation, maintenance and repair of the SSPAR and associated hardware and life support systems including Project Management and Software maintenance activities.” Paul McCarter said.

RAF Fylingdales is considered one of the key components of UK national security providing Ballistic Missile Early Warning Operations for more than 57 years. Serco is the only prime contractor to have continuously operated and maintained the facility since its installation, despite 11 competitive tender exercises. Some

of the Serco team have been supporting RAF Fylingdales since the very beginning, while Serco as a company has provided continuous support on site since its formation in 1988.

“How much revenue does the Serco Space segment contribute to Serco Plc.?”

“Given that many of the contracts are for a set period over many years, it does vary but it averages in excess of £100m per annum. Serco is a leading Space Services Provider with over 2000 skilled resources supporting more than 25 space missions on behalf of more than 10 Space or Government agencies around the globe. Serco offers space capability across the full space lifecycle from satellite testing to Launch services, LEOP to Space

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFmdIOG9xbM


craft operations, space surveillance to data management, and supporting downstream application development. With over 55 years history in the Space sector Serco is well placed to contribute to National strategies and blend best practice between both civilian and military domains globally. Here in the UK we support MoD and Allied nations with the security cleared Spacecraft operators, SQEP expertise in Orbital Analysis, Military Satellite Communications, Network and Ground station Operations, and the provision of a substantial number of the technical operations staff supporting the Skynet 5 Service Delivery.”

On November 5th 19 Serco announced its intention to bid as Prime Contractor for the future UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) requirement for a successor to the current Skynet 5 support contract, known as ‘Service Delivery Wrap’ (SDW), and will be leading a team of specialist system integrators and world class aerospace companies.

The Serco led consortium will comprise global defence and aerospace company Lockheed Martin, global IT specialist CGI and UK satellite operator Inmarsat, the world leader in global, mobile satellite communications, supported by a number of other highly skilled providers from across the domain. Serco and Lockheed Martin have worked together on a number of UK defence programmes over many years, whilst Serco, CGI and Inmarsat have worked closely together on the current Skynet 5 service from the start of its delivery. All the partners have a strong UK presence and track record with the UK MoD and wider space sector.

“We were delighted to be able to announce the formation of such a strong team last year, creating great balance between programme transition risk management as well as providing the MoD with access to best of breed capabilities and innovation. Of course, we have worked closely with Lockheed Martin, the world’s largest space company for many years on a number of projects. Our consortium brings many years of experience of working on UK eyes-only critical defence contracts, combined with world leading expertise and technology. The team has decades of experience of delivering mission critical military communications services to both UK military and ‘5 eyes’ customers. Together we can guarantee the UK MoD highly credible continuity of service as well as exciting opportunities for innovation. I’m afraid I can’t go into any more detail about the programme as all the consortia involved in the programme are subject to a Government NDA about the programme.” Paul McCarter said.

The MoD issued its Pre- Qualification Questionnaire for the Skynet 6 Service Delivery Wrap (SDW) phase on November

5th 2019, which will ensure successful transition and continuous delivery of service for future Skynet operations. The contract is expected to commence in 2021 with a one year transition phase prior to the end of the current Private Finance Initiative arrangement in 2022, under which both the current satellites and the support services were procured. The MoD is also expected to facilitate future technology upgrades and satcom approaches for a longer-term contract, known as Skynet Enduring Capability (EC). MoD recently announced the companies successfully down selected from the PQQ, to take part in the ITN phase, which includes the Serco led team.

“In forming this consortium of bidders, you have brought together many of the major players associated with the Skynet 6 bid, including Lockheed Martin. Do you expect more outsourcing of service contracts on a flexible basis and the use of satellite services providers, such as Inmarsat to meet the UK MoD’s Beyond Visual Line-of-Sight (BVLOS) Requirements?”

“Certainly we see the MoD looking at a much more flexible approach to their BVLOS future requirements using a mixture of civil and military satcom to enable multi-domain activities across the globe as well as the use of tactical radio communications linked to satcom on the battlefield. In recent operations, the MoD has learnt that a flexible approach not only gives the soldier access to seamless 24/7 communications in theatre but it has also given the MoD the allowance to switch providers in the event of any cyber intrusions, thus ensuring the strength and resilience of the networks.”

“Will Brexit give a boost to the space sector?”

“Brexit has had both positive and negative effects on the UK space sector. The obvious negative is the inability of the UK to now participate in Galileo, with the knock of effect to UK companies involved in that. However, this also brings opportunity for participation in a UK alternative. Space and space technology, in the civil and defence arenas, is seen as a growth area across the world with a number of countries including the US, UK, Australia and Japan forming their own dedicated space forces. A key consequence of the Brexit process has been to assess and understand the indigenous UK space capability in terms of technology, manufacturing and SQEP and explore how to use it to best effect. The UK has world leading space technologies and capabilities in some areas, which are certainly of interest to our allies and a strong base from which to grow. Examples includes small satellite design and manufacture, and also SSA. Another aspect of the Brexit process is for the UK to continue its commitments as a key member of 5 Eyes, maintaining or

enhancing its intelligence relationships, all whilst forging its new Global Britain identity.”

On June 24th a virtual conference was held by the Five Eyes nations to discuss ways to strengthen defence partnership. Five Eyes is an alliance comprising Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the US. Defence ministers of the mentioned nations participated in the video conference. The partner nations aim to support and defend a stable, rules-based global order. They also talked about commitment to advance defence and security cooperation on matters of mutual interest. Additionally, the group discussed the role of Indo-Pacific area for a secure, economically resilient community respecting the sovereign rights of all states. New opportunities to further strengthen the alliance relationship, hold regular meetings to address existing and emerging security challenges, as well as international rules and regulations were discussed.

Team Athena Launch

On May 19th, 2020 an announcement was made about the launch of a new UK-based space team to boost the sector and the economy in general. Serco, Inmarsat, CGI UK and Lockheed Martin UK have formed ‘Athena’ to develop additional UK space capabilities, win new business and boost the British economy. Athena is the UK’s new national team in space, formed by Serco, Inmarsat, CGI UK and Lockheed Martin UK. The four companies are world leaders in providing technology and services across defence, space, communications and information technology to governments, businesses and other organisations.

Athena has been formed to seize development opportunities that new space technologies will offer, driving economic growth for the UK and diversification across the British space sector as Athena succeeds. The combined capabilities and technologies available to Athena will enhance further the country’s ability to deliver the UK’s ‘Prosperity and Security in Space’ strategy, which aims to increase the value of space to wider industrial activities to £500 billion, generate an extra £5 billion in UK exports and attract £3 billion of additional inward investment.

Kevin Craven Serco Chief Executive, UK & Europe, said, “I am delighted to introduce Athena as an exciting new team that will deliver enhanced space-based technologies and services from the UK. Athena will boost British capabilities, as well as the economy, via growth in this fast-moving, developing sector. The launch of Athena also ensures diversity and choice in the UK space sector for future sustainable development.”

26 SERCO – A Leading Space Services Provider

Athena will work on a number of opportunities that leverage space-based technologies, their ground-based systems and end-to-end services as they arise, both in the UK and internationally in the export market.

The UK has significant potential for strong growth in the space sector, as it develops in importance worldwide to facilitate new technologies such as driverless transport, enhanced navigation, secure communications for defence and for industry via the Internet of Things (IoT) and, more broadly, as part of 5G and other hybrid networks.

While continuing to operate as separate companies, Athena will see Serco, Inmarsat, CGI UK and Lockheed Martin UK – already major employers in the UK – develop shared capabilities to meet future demand for space-enabled solutions for business and government customers. This will also aim to boost the UK economy, in partnership with the UK Government’s growing focus on the space sector and its priorities around ‘levelling up’ economic benefits across the country. Unleashing untapped potential in the UK space sector through future export business will deliver further growth and job creation at the four companies’ sites across the country as well as enhanced skills in the UK workforce.

“Outside the UK, you have considerable activities in Europe and the US?”

“Yes, in Europe we have been supporting the European Space Agency (ESA) for

over 30 years, delivering specialist space engineering skills, ground station satellite controllers, EO mission support and data management and support to space launch at Kourou, French Guyana. We are supporting delivery of critical missions such as Copernicus. In the US we have won significant new space contracts over the past year including in April 2020 a new contract from the U.S. Space Force to manage, operate and maintain the Ground-Based Electro-Optical Deep Space Surveillance (GEODSS) system. The contract has an eight-month base period and six one- year option years with a total value of $57 million. Our UK SSA and space ground station capability in the UK has been vital as referenceability for winning contracts with the USAF and US Space Command. In addition to the GEODSS win in the USA, in the same month, Serco’s Defence business was awarded a £25m contract by CACI to continue to provide operations and maintenance support to the US Air Force Satellite Control Network (AFSCN) at the Telemetry and Command Station (TCS) at Oakhanger, Hampshire, UK for a further four years until 2024. We were delighted to have been chosen to continue to provide these vital services for the US Space Force. This is an important contract win for Serco and strengthens our capabilities in the Space market in the UK, which we see as an area of growth. We will build on the success and experience of operating that site over the past seventeen years to continue to deliver and improve the services we provide in the coming years.”

The GEODDS system supports the U.S. Strategic Command and theater war fighters’ requirements through the detection and surveillance of deep space satellites using one-meter telescopes that are equipped with highly sensitive digital camera technology. The GEODSS system detects, tracks, identifies and reports on all deep-space man-made objects in the Earth’s orbit. Both new objects that are discovered and objects already in the catalogue require regular observations in order to keep the orbit information accurate. Under this new contract, Serco’s operators will be performing space observation, including operating the telescopes, maintaining and supporting the systems, and logging and reporting the findings in support of the Combined Space Operations Center (CSpOC), the National Space Defense Center (NSDC) and the 18th Space Control Squadron (SPCS); Serco operators will also be undertaking Space Object Identification tasks in support of the National Air and Space Intelligence Center (NASIC). Serco will provide operation and maintenance (O&M), along with exercise and testing, and mission systems maintenance including repairs, logistics management, civil engineering, and support depot modifications. Work will be performed at all three geographically-separated GEODSS locations in Socorro, New Mexico; Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT); and Maui, Hawaii.

Serco has been providing the operations, maintenance and site services at TCS Oakhanger since 2003 as part of the UK Skynet 5 programme, since when


customer satisfaction, reliability and safety have all been significantly improved. As part of Serco’s wider Space capability, there are c.75 highly skilled Serco engineers and technicians employed on the contract to support the US Space Force. CACI is the Prime Contractor for the Consolidated Air Force Satellite Control Network Modifications, Maintenance and Operations (CAMMO) contract providing worldwide operations and maintenance for the AFSCN. The Oakhanger site is owned by the MoD and is the busiest ground station in the AFSCN supporting over 38,000 contacts during 2019 with an operational performance of 99.99%. The AFSCN, operated by the U.S. Space Force’s Space Operation Command, provides support for the operation, control, and maintenance of a variety of United States Department of Defense and some non-DoD satellites. This involves continual execution of Telemetry, Tracking, and Commanding operations. In addition, the AFSCN provides prelaunch checkout and simulation, launch support, and early orbit support while satellites are in initial or transfer orbits and require manoeuvring to their final orbit. The AFSCN provides tracking data to help maintain the catalogue of space objects and distributes various data such as satellite ephemeris, almanacs, and other information.

“The establishment of Athena and your continued growth in international activities, particularly in Europe and the USA, will certainly cement Serco as a premier supplier of space services in the UK and beyond. Do you see this as the

beginning of the establishment of Serco’s space activities as the driving force of the expansion of Serco Plc over the next decade and beyond?”

“Athena and the many relationships Serco already had with OEMs and SMEs on existing space programmes around the globe has positioned Serco to take advantage of new opportunities for UK space activities, including our interest in a potential Launch Site Operator role in the UK Launch programme. There are 3 vertical launch sites in contention as well as 2 horizontal launch options and we have been tracking all five with interest

and have a number of capabilities to offer. Over the last two years we have created a Serco Global Space community, who regularly review cross geography ideas, expertise and best practise. Space is an international endeavour and its only right that we bring our international capability to bear to prosecute it to best effect for both the UK Government and other 5 Eyes Governments. We have factored in a number of opportunities to drive growth throughout the next decade, but certainly if one of the larger opportunities available comes to fruition, it will be a game changer for Serco’s space activities.”

Paul McCarter BEng CEng MIET MBA CV Bio

Paul McCarter served for twelve years in the Royal Signals and then developed a second career in the Technology and Defence sectors. His roles since military service have included Programme Management, Strategy, Business Development and, for the last 15 years, General Management as CEO or Managing Director of UK and International businesses. He has worked for Thales, Cobham and now Serco with an expertise and focus on Defence businesses with technology or engineering intellectual property at their core. His current role, as leader of Serco’s UK Defence business, has responsibilities that include Space, Maritime, Aerospace and Nuclear domains, with multiple critical national infrastructure assets. Through his career Paul has always been involved in adventure sports and ran several expeditions in his military career to train soldiers in skiing, scuba diving and free fall parachuting. During his second career he has supported Sir Ranulph Fiennes as his technology planner and advisor for all communications capabilities for ‘The Coldest Journey’. The expedition was an attempt to be the first ever unsupported Antarctic crossing during polar winter. Paul has a degree in Software Engineering, gained his chartered engineer in communications through the IET and his MBA through London Business School. He lives in Buckinghamshire with his family.

Paul McCarter is a candidate for BATTLESPACE Businessman Of The Year 2020.

28 HENSOLDT UK: A reliable partner for over 300 years

HENSOLDT UK: A reliable partner for over 300 years By Rohan Dearlove, Sales Director – UK & IrelandThe history of Kelvin Hughes can be traced back to the 18th century. Throughout, the company has been known for its innovation, agility and integrity. In 2017, the European sensors house HENSOLDT took the strategic decision to acquire the company, not only to benefit from synergies associated with its radar portfolio, but also to secure a United Kingdom (UK) based industrial facility with potential for growth. This decision was taken in recognition of the UK’s importance and global influence in Defence and Security matters, as well as the nation’s unique position post-BREXIT.

The acquisition paved the way for targeted investment in HENSOLDT’s UK business in order to bolster and extend the range and depth of its capabilities, capacity and expertise. The overall aim being to better serve the needs of HENSOLDT’s customers and partners within the UK through the employment of local resources.

Coinciding with the formal launch of HENSOLDT UK at the DSEI exhibition in London in 2019, HENSOLDT embarked on an ambitious and focussed growth strategy. This ensures that HENSOLDT UK is fully resourced and capable of undertaking the following work on behalf of the full HENSOLDT capability portfolio, from its UK headquarters in Enfield:l Business Development and Sales – close

engagement with UK stakeholders to understand requirements and inform solutions

l Proposal generation and management – from expression of interest through request for information (RFI), pre-qualification questionnaire (PQQ), invitation to negotiate/invitation to tender (ITN/ITT) and contract negotiation

l Programme Management and execution – in accordance with Ministry of Defence (MoD) principles and documentary requirements

l System Integration, Systems Test and delivery

l Trainingl Logistics support l Engineering and Service support

The company has made significant progress since its launch and the UK business is already capable of effectively leading the provision of a number of products drawn from the wider group.

“The most visible change, of course, is in the name. We are very proud to now operate under the name HENSOLDT UK,” explained Russell Gould, Managing Director of HENSOLDT UK.

He continued: “Since the acquisition we have found that adopting the HENSOLDT name has helped significantly in terms of the company’s aspirations beyond those sectors traditionally served by Kelvin Hughes. HENSOLDT UK benefits

Business Feature

Above: Russell Gould, Managing Director of HENSOLDT UK

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8Qv5f_Jvcs


from being integrated into a defence and security business with a truly global reach and portfolio to match. When you look back across nearly 300 years of trading, you find that we have changed our name many times – continuously evolving, improving, growing and becoming stronger. Becoming HENSOLDT UK is another step forward for us into a new and exciting chapter of the company’s history. In a challenging world, we remain a UK manufacturing and design company, but now with access to additional best-of-breed capability, enabling us to serve a wider range of UK customers in different market sectors”.

Going forward, HENSOLDT will further invest in its UK branch to extend the range of tasks and hence workshare undertaken locally in the UK. This will include full system and/or sub-assembly design and manufacturing, as well as the provision and local support of UK-specific product variants, where necessary, to assure UK sovereign operation and support. Thus, HENSOLDT is well placed to support the key tenets of HM Government’s Prosperity Agenda.

HENSOLDT’s Executive Committee recently commented that, through the establishment of its UK business, the company is looking forward to working ever closer with its UK partners, as the UK exits the European Union.

In September 2020, HENSOLDT became a publicly traded company on the Frankfurt stock exchange. The IPO was

a key step in the strategic development of the company, which was based on the understanding that value creation will continue to happen both, within and outside of Germany. The UK is and will remain one of the biggest defence markets in the world after BREXIT, and HENSOLDT aspires to play a larger role in its success.

Below: Royal Navy submarine – fitted with Kelvin Hughes radar

Above: XPELLER counter-drone system featuring SharpEye radar

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVQEpwatOnE


Current UK programmes

SharpEye – at sea and on land

Through its acquisition of Kelvin Hughes, HENSOLDT inherited and has further invested in the SharpEye range of 2D radars and integrated navigation bridge systems (INBS). These systems are used extensively by the Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Recent successes include the fleet-wide Navigation Radar Programme, and new builds such as the Tide Class Tanker INBS, River Class OPV and an as yet undisclosed platform.

Variants of SharpEye radars are also used by a number of UK customers for coastal maritime surveillance, vessel traffic management, offshore security and of course for vital counter-drone applications at UK airports.

For many years prior to the acquisition of Kelvin Hughes, HENSOLDT has been active in the UK, contributing to a number of key MoD programmes. Two significant examples are outlined below:

RAF Typhoon

HENSOLDT provides multiple advanced avionics systems for the RAF’s Eurofighter Typhoon, as well as contributing core technology and the major sub-systems comprising the aircraft’s CAPTOR-E radar system.

HENSOLDT remains in the vanguard of cutting-edge aircraft radar design. This was confirmed in July this year, when the German Government awarded HENSOLDT a significant contract to lead the development of the next generation of

radar for its own Eurofighter fleet.

Mode 5 IFF

Identification, Friend or Foe (IFF) systems allow military platforms (ships, armoured vehicles and aircraft) to be identified precisely by automatically sending interrogation signals, which are answered by transponders on board friendly units. Field commanders are thus able to quickly distinguish friendly from hostile forces. Unlike Mode 4 used hitherto, the future Mode 5 standard employs state-of-the-art encryption techniques to avoid hostile manipulation of the signal. In June 2017, the MoD awarded a significant contract to upgrade the IFF systems of 450 aircraft, ships and ground-based air defence systems of the British Armed Forces to the Mode 5 standard. This upgrade is being rolled out by HENSOLDT in partnership with Leonardo – an example of HENSOLDT cooperating effectively with partners in order to deliver a winning solution to the customer.

In its own right, HENSOLDT has delivered IFF systems to a total of 42 countries, including the majority of 29 NATO nations and their allies. HENSOLDT has approximately 450 IFF systems under contract for more than 80 different platform types.

2020 and beyond

HENSOLDT UK offers a comprehensive portfolio of sensors and systems for missions in all the various domains in which the UK Armed Forces and security agencies operate. Some examples are outlined below:

In the Air

PrecISR

HENSOLDT is well known for its expertise in the field of combat aircraft radar. Drawing on this heritage, HENSOLDT has developed a highly capable and

Above: HENSOLDT provides mission critical systems for RAF Typhoon

Below: PrecISR’s compact design

Below: Typical radar image


affordable airborne multi-mission surveillance radar, designed for Maritime Patrol Aircraft, helicopters and UAVs. This new radar, named PrecISR, translates the latest achievements in active array and digital receiver technology into a scalable high-performance sensor. PrecISR’s compact design is suitable for use on relatively small aircraft, where space and weight constraints are significant factors. Due to its software-defined radar modes and electronic beam steering, PrecISR can fulfill different tasks simultaneously. It is able to detect, track and classify more than a thousand objects.

Due to its innovative design and the fact that all radar related components are located outside the airframe, platform integration is significantly simplified compared to other radars. PrecISR’s superior precision and target accuracy make it the sensor of choice for surveillance of large maritime and coastal areas.

In 2019, HENSOLDT was awarded a contract to deliver a PrecISR system for aircraft conducting maritime surveillance and coastal range safety operations in the UK.

On Land

Multifunctional Self-Protection System (MUSS)

MUSS is a soft kill-based active protection system (APS) designed to defend armoured vehicles. It offers infantry fighting vehicles and tanks efficient protection against enemy laser and armour-piercing threats. These can be effectively countered by warning sensors that detect the threat from missiles or lasers and initiate appropriate countermeasures. The MUSS self-protection system is already in series production and has so far been delivered more than 350 times. HENSOLDT has recently fundamentally revised its technology. The improvements include a new laser detector that covers all modern laser threats.

The latest development, MUSS 2.0, offers improved and extended sensor technology, significantly improved software and modern countermeasures. MUSS is being further developed into a layered system and offers modern interfaces, which, among other things, enable the integration of a hard kill effector. In addition, MUSS 2.0 will be even smaller and lighter than before.

HENSOLDT UK recently completed a successful demo on the British Challenger II main battle tank.

Radar systems

HENSOLDT UK offers a range of radars to meet different operational requirements

Above: MUSS system installed on Challenger 2 tank

Below: Weapon location radar concept

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