14 September 2011

Kelvin Hughes ensures radar meets evolving client needs

Kelvin Hughes has developed one of its leading radar products to incorporate a new suite of software and hardware upgrades.

The Naval MantaDigital™ (NMD) is a tactical radar display system that delivers exceptional performance with low through-life costs.

The new upgraded NMD features include a fully ruggedized pedestal and user interface option produced from 7000 series aluminium (where shock and vibration resistance is required), with grab handles either side of the TFT display. It also adheres to the low smoke requirements of modern navy operational and ATC rooms and has an enhanced helicopter landing mode to assist in rotorcraft recovery to deck.

The NMD combined with SharpEye™ solid state radar approved to IMO and IEC standards has recently completed final acceptance testing for the Royal Australian navy as a Short Range Helicopter Control Radar (SRHCR) and has also been integrated into the maritime systems of the Irish Naval Service.

Barry Wade, Director Kelvin Hughes Surveillance Systems said: We are committed to meeting the developing security and situational awareness needs of customers at sea and on land.

The new options for the NMD ensure that it remains at the forefront of technological innovation. The Fibre Optic slave display facility provides crisp images over extended distances and there is the option of ARPA or CRONIUSTM Advanced tracker produced in conjunction with QinetiQ.

The NMD can be a stand-alone radar system or provide multi-function capability when integrated into a bridge system. NMD also offers a fully integrated bespoke package for the individual specifications of the client.

The NMD's capabilities can be enhanced when combined with Kelvin Hughes' SharpEye™ radar transceiver. Key features include:
  • Full tactical features and display
  • SharpEye™ radar control
  • Enhanced Target Detection (ETD) mode
  • Dual radar PPI or camera view capability for enhanced situational awareness
  • Electronic Chart and Display Systems/Warship Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS/WECDIS) overlay functionality
  • Automatic acquisition zones
  • Integral simulator
  • Man over-board management
  • Route planning and monitoring functionality
  • ARPA/AIS contact fusion