Chess Dynamics’ vehicle surveillance system, Hawkeye MMP, has demonstrated a world-leading electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) performance as part of the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency’s (NDMA) Observation Targeting and Surveillance Systems (OTAS) project. In meeting stringent requirements set by the NDMA, Hawkeye MMP has demonstrated its ability to meet the needs of the modern battlefield and survive, communicate and operate in the toughest electromagnetic conditions. The unique requirements set out by the NDMA included standard EMC tests such as MIL-STD461 and specifically the precise Nuclear Electro Magnetic Pulse (NEMP). This was alongside more bespoke requirements to ensure compatibility with the vehicle’s existing high frequency, very high frequency and ultra-high frequency radio systems without any internal frequency interference.
Chess developed the Hawkeye Modular Mission Pod (MMP) which consists of a thermal imaging camera, a high-powered daylight camera, a laser range finder (LRF) with a 30km+ range and a laser pointer. Combined with Chess’ advanced geo data algorithms, the system achieves Category 1 TLE rating, the highest standard of accuracy enabling it to observe, target and understand the battlespace out to ranges of 20km+. The system is integrated into a wide area Battlefield Information System (BIS) or, in the absence of a BIS, into a local Combat Management System (CMS) developed by Chess. Combined with Chess’ cutting-edge AI target classification and tracking tools, the system provides the end user with un-paralleled situational awareness. Mounted on combat vehicles operating in the harshest climates and traversing the most arduous terrain, the MMP has been electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) verified and environmentally tested to withstand a temperature range of -30 to +40 degrees Celsius.
The customer said, “Chess Dynamics was able to provide a solution that passed the EMC tests, proving Hawkeye MMP’s ability to perform while remaining resilient on the battlefield. We look forward to our continued work with Chess as we look to continuously improve our surveillance capabilities.”
Chris Henderson, Electronics Group Leader at Chess Dynamics said, “The demands of the battlefield today are increasingly complex and require adaptable, high-performance solutions. The NDMA required a technology of this kind that also met its own strict EMC requirements, and we are thrilled to have succeeded in this. This is a major achievement for Chess, and we believe this technology will be vital as resilience becomes increasingly important to surveillance capability.”
Chess developed a multi-staged approach which included board-level testing, meeting UK-based EMC qualifications and complete vehicle system tests, as well as designing novel modular solutions to pass the NEMP testing at the first attempt. Steps were taken alongside the NDMA so that requirements were met while ensuring environmental and usability needs were not impacted. Based in Horsham, Plymouth, and Wokingham, Chess Dynamics is a Systems House providing surveillance, fire control and special project capability for Land and Maritime domains. Chess’ portfolio of proven surveillance and fire control solutions also includes counter-sUAV (drone) protection systems, the Vision4ce branded real time video and image processing solutions for electro-optic systems. The company also provides a complete service including survey, installation, training, and maintenance across its entire product range, including bespoke engineering solutions.
