Saab announces a new feature for its Barracuda Ultra-lightweight Camouflage Screen (ULCAS) giving armed forces the possibility to combine protection from the enemy with the possibility to communicate with friendly forces. Barracuda camouflage nets provide vital protection for a soldier, hiding the operator from for example radar sensors. However, the same characteristics that provide that protection, also limits the use of GPS and/or VHF communications to and from underneath the net. Saab’s new Frequency Selective Surface technology (ULCAS-FSS) allows selected radio frequencies to pass easily either way through the camouflage net, while protecting against the higher frequencies of electromagnetic waves used by radar systems. The represents a significant advancement in modern signature management technology. Saab’s camouflage solutions, including the ULCAS with FSS feature will be shown during the DSEI 2023 event in London, 12-15 September at stand H7-210.
“Thanks to our expertise within signature management, we are taking camouflage to the next level with this novel feature. It changes how soldiers communicate while keeping multispectral protection, and so introduces a new era of tactical communication flexibility, offering unparalleled capabilities,” says Henning Robach, head of Saab’s business unit Barracuda.
Multispectral, lightweight and flexible camouflage net, ULCAS provides a low probability for detection when deployed. ULCAS is the most innovative camouflage technology on the market today. The multispectral properties throughout its service life, enhancing survivability by challenging sensors in all relevant parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. ULCAS has a 3D surface structure and is made up of two layers of textiles. A garnish layer is quilted on a backing to give the net its non-snagging properties. This provides a long-life expectancy and facilitates rapid deployment and re-deployment. Size and shape is possible tailore to the customer’s requirements.
Saab is a leading defence and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 19,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer, more sustainable and more equitable world. Saab designs, manufactures and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden. It has major operations all over the world and is part of the domestic defence capability of several nations.
