MoD calls up small firms to reinforce military innovation

The British Army wants to use new materials to reduce the physical load on soldiers

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has for the first time disclosed its long-term technology needs to allow smaller innovative companies to compete for contracts.

Traditionally, the MoD has only worked with multinational defence technology suppliers such as BAE Systems, EADS and QinetiQ.

But now the department has published its latest technology plan online, and set up a portal so that small technology firms can tailor their products to potential MoD applications, as well as submit speculative proposals.

Minister for defence equipment and support, Quentin Davies, said the department is looking to embrace novel, cutting-edge technology ideas.

“It is more vital than ever that we exploit new and emerging technologies because the threats our troops face are always evolving,” he said.

“To do this, we need to make the best use of the defence industrial base, as well as the wealth of ability and expertise found among small businesses, talented individuals and the media.”

The new defence technology plan has five key strands:

• Reducing the physical load on a soldier to 25kg. Developing lighter hardware equipment is an important goal as soldiers of the future will increasingly be equipped with electronic communications kit.

• Developing lightweight vehicles that are as rugged as battle tanks, but faster and more manoeuvrable. They will be powered by hybrid electric drives and equipped with the latest IT combat systems.
  

• Reducing operational dependency on fossil fuels. Robust and efficient fuel cells, hydrogen storage, and more efficient IT can all contribute to improving the energy security of the armed forces.
  

• Increased use of unmanned aircraft for surveillance and intelligence purposes. Such aircraft will be remotely controlled and capable of penetrating 1,000km into hostile airspace.
  

• Improving defences against cyber warfare and electronic attacks. This three-year programme will provide an understanding of the threats to the local and global communication infrastructures of the armed forces.
  

The web site www.science.mod.uk will show the specific research and development priorities in each area and the broad funding allocation.

Paul Stein, director of science and technology at the MoD, said the site was not an open invitation to tender, but intended to open up a dialogue between the MoD and smaller companies.

“The online format has been updated to show our ongoing needs and where we need to invest ­ – we want innovative ideas to solve long-term defence challenges,” he said.

All-seeing robots, microwave radars and shock-absorbent armour – welcome to 21st century warfare

As part of its new approach to defence procurement, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced five new contracts with smaller technology firms to develop specific technologies for the battlefield. All companies will work closely with the MoD to make sure their technologies are adequately field tested.

Short-range reconnaissance robot. Essentially a remote-controlled car with a camera on it, this robot developed by Mindsheet is intended to be carried on the rucksack of a platoon member. It can be deployed by the platoon for short-distance reconnaissance missions and broadcasts pictures back to a handheld device. The test model can travel at 70mph.

Longer-range reconnaissance robot. This system of ground-based and air-based reconnaissance robots developed by Team Stellar will help plan attacks on known enemy positions. Thermal and optical imaging will help identify sniper and vehicle positions, while the robot itself can travel up stairs and be used to knock holes in buildings.

Robot swarms. Swarm Systems was awarded a contract to develop a co-ordinated swarm of aerial robots or “owls”. They are controlled as one from the ground and can build up a detailed picture of an area.

Helicopter landing radar. Teledyne Defence was awarded a contract to further develop a microwave radar that penetrates dust thrown up by helicopter blades to understand the ground below and aid landing. It can also help pilots landing at night.

Shock-absorbent armour. D30 developed an advanced shock-absorbing material for use in military armour. The specially engineered material is made to allow flexible movement and to absorb impact shock.