#Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA)

[xtruss]

Experts Craft Life-Saving 'Robot Medics' For Triage in High-Risk Places

Developed by Researchers at the University of Sheffield, this Revolutionary Technology has the potential to be a life-saving intervention in high-risk places.

— Mrigakshi Dixit | January 19, 2024 | Interesting Engineering

The MediTel Project, Which Includes Two Robotic Arms. University of Sheffield

In environments deemed too hazardous for doctors to access, the use of robot medics becomes a crucial solution.

This fundamental idea has driven the creation of a high-tech vehicle equipped with robotic arms to conduct essential medical triage in perilous situations like humanitarian disasters and conflict zones.

Developed by researchers at the University of Sheffield, this revolutionary technology has the potential to be a life-saving intervention in high-risk places.

Examining Victims Within 20 Minutes

Built upon the innovative "medical telexistence (MediTel) solution," this state-of-the-art mobile robotic-controlled uncrewed ground vehicle (UGV) incorporates virtual reality (VR) technology.

It enables seamless communication with doctors, facilitating the remote execution of critical medical triage and eliminating the necessity for them to put their lives at risk in hazardous situations.

The completely integrated vehicle, which was created in just nine months, is made up of two high-tech robotic arms that can operate medical instruments remotely.

Within 20 minutes, this robotic medic can do a thorough first examination of victims.

This includes checking vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate, palpating the abdomen, and giving pain treatment using an auto-injector. Real-time data is continuously sent to the remote operator during the entire evaluation process.

“Our MediTel project has demonstrated game-changing medical telexistence technology that has the potential to save lives and provide remote assessment and treatment of casualties in high-risk environments such as humanitarian disasters,” said David King, Head of Digital Design at the University’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC).

Robotic Arms being tested on a Dummy Model. University of Sheffield

“Developing and field testing a state-of-the-art, complex system such as MediTel in just nine months has been an incredible achievement and a testament to the skills and capabilities of the entire project team,” added King, in the press release.

This cutting-edge technology represents a big step forward in improving medical facilities in difficult and life-threatening situations, opening up new avenues for remote healthcare interventions in emergencies.

MediTel was one of three telexistence technologies to obtain financing through a two-phase £2.3 million innovation competition conducted by the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA). This program was carried out on behalf of joint funders, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.

“Telexistence technologies have the potential to remove end users from harmful environments and/or rapidly insert specialists as required," said Nicky Armstrong, technical lead at Dstl, in the release.

“The prototype technologies developed under the Dstl Telexistence project have enabled us to demonstrate the art of the possible to end users so that we can better understand where telexistence could add value to defense and security environments," Armstrong concluded.

[militaryleak]

VRAI Awarded British Army Contract to Develop Simulator for Multi Launch Rocket System (MLRS)

Newcastle based training technology company VRAI have won a pathfinder contract from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to develop a data driven tactical simulator for the Multi Launch Rocket System (MLRS), which is based in the 101 Royal Artillery Regiment in the North East of England. The £288k pathfinder project, funded through the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) 1st Customer fund, will provide the British Army with an initial MRLS Tactical Capability Trainer capable of collecting user performance data from a simulated MLRS cab, in order to improve crew performance, while reducing the cost and carbon footprint of training. VRAI’s mission is to redefine exceptional human performance through better training, unlocking every individual’s full potential in order to help save lives. VRAI has developed an industry leading product called HEAT that integrates with simulators of all kinds to provide an analytics layer that delivers actionable insights into human performance. #military #defense #defence #militaryleak

Newcastle based training technology company VRAI have won a pathfinder contract from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to develop a data driven tactical simulator for the Multi Launch Rocket System (MLRS), which is based in the 101 Royal Artillery Regiment in the North East of England. The £288k pathfinder project, funded through the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) 1st Customer fund, will…

[thxnews]

DASA Funds Toxic Gas Detection Tech

DASA Launches Initiative to Enhance Public Safety

Introduction: Innovating for Safer Spaces The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) has announced a new Themed Competition titled ‘Rapid Detection of Toxic Gases’. Funded by the Home Office, this competition offers up to £1.6 million for innovative solutions that can quickly detect toxic gases in busy spaces, ensuring public safety and security.   The Challenge: Detecting Toxic Gases in Crowded Areas The rapid release of toxic gases in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces can happen accidentally or through malicious intent. The swift detection of such gases is crucial to prevent adverse health effects and ensure the safety of people in these environments. This competition aims to find technological solutions that can tackle this significant health, safety, and security challenge.   Key Dates and Funding Details - Total Funding Available: £1.6 million for Phase 1, with a cap of £200,000 per proposal. - Proposal Submission Deadline: Midday (GMT) on Thursday 28 March 2024. - Informational Webinar: Scheduled for Wednesday 7 February 2024. - 1-2-1 Webinar Sessions: Set for Wednesday 14 February and Thursday 22 February 2024.   What DASA is Looking For DASA seeks innovative detection methods suitable for monitoring air quality in potentially busy spaces. Key aspects include early warning systems for unsafe toxic gas levels, estimating concentration levels, minimizing false alarms, quick identification, and integration potential with smart facility management systems.   Participating in the Competition Launch Q&A Webinar: An opportunity to gain more insights into the challenge areas and proposal submission process. The webinar on 7 February 2024 will include a Q&A session. 1-2-1 Sessions: Applicants can register for 15-minute teleconference sessions on 14 February and 22 February 2024 to ask specific questions related to the competition.   Submitting a Proposal Innovators with ideas for novel technologies that can provide early warnings for unsafe levels of toxic gases are encouraged to participate. The full competition document, available on DASA's website, provides detailed information on the challenge and the submission process.   Conclusion: A Step Towards Enhanced Public Safety This initiative by DASA, backed by the Home Office, is a significant step towards using innovative technology to enhance public safety. By addressing key defence and security challenges, this competition aims to create safer environments in potentially busy spaces across the UK.   Sources: THX News & Defence and Security Accelerator. Keywords: - DASA Toxic Gas Detection, - Public Safety Innovation Challenge, - Home Office Funded Competition, - Rapid Toxic Gas Detection Solutions, - Safety in Crowded Spaces, - Air Quality Monitoring Technologies, - Defence and Security Accelerator, - Toxic Gas Early Warning Systems, - Public Security Technology Innovation, - Smart Facility Management Integration. High-Ranking Keyword: Rapid Toxic Gas Detection Solutions Meta Description: DASA launches a £1.6 million competition for rapid toxic gas detection solutions, aiming to enhance public safety in crowded spaces. Title: "DASA Funds Toxic Gas Detection Tech" Sub-title: "In a major public safety initiative, DASA launches a £1.6 million competition to develop rapid toxic gas detection solutions for crowded spaces." Read the full article

[hellotranzeduniverse]

Why would we need such a thing?

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/defence-and-security-accelerator-dasa-open-call-for-innovation/ifa035-making-science-fiction-a-reality-future-directed-energy-weapons

[spaceexp]

Self-eating rocket whets appetite for development

Glasgow UK (SPX) Oct 13, 2020 A 'self-eating' rocket engine which aims to put small payloads into orbit by burning its own structure as propellant has won financial support from the UK Government. The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), part of the Ministry of Defence, has pledged 90,000 pounds for further development of the autophage engine, which is being built at the University of Glasgow's James Watt School of Full article>>

[rafbrizenorton]

47 Squadron's Engineering Competition Entry Leads to £1m Innovation Funding to Boost Military Decarbonisation Drive

On 11 January 2020, the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) announced £1m funding for innovative technology to recycle waste aircraft oils and lubricants – saving the Armed Forces money in waste charges whilst delivering environmentally-friendly by-products in the process.

DASA – on behalf of the Royal Air Force – has awarded contracts to three universities and one engineering firm to develop the new...Continue reading (opens in a new window).

[energysolutions]

DASA and BEIS host webinar on Windfarm Mitigation for UK Air Defence

The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), in partnership with the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) are exploring a Phase 3 of the 'Windfarm Mitigation for UK Air Defence' competition, to build on current activities which seek to advance innovative technologies to enable the long-term co-existence of offshore windfarms and Air Defence radar. Courtesy DASA The competition is funded by the BEIS Net Zero Innovation Portfolio (NZIP) and is undertaken in partnership with the Royal Air Force (RAF), the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and DASA. On 27th January 2023, DASA and BEIS hosted a webinar to test the programme’s vision with the wider market and provide the opportunity to inform the programme. The scope of Phase 3 is likely to support technologies across the three broad categories: radar stealthy materials alternative tracking based solutions. The competition is aimed at any technology providers within those 3 categories, as well as original equipment manufacturers, onshore and offshore owner/operators and developers who would be interested in collaborating with the technology providers as part of Windfarm Mitigation for UK Air Defence: Phase 3. If you are interested in submitting a proposal when the competition launches in 2023, watch the above webinar. What is covered in the webinar? Recap of Phase 1 and Phase 2 Windfarm Mitigation for UK Air Defence: Phase 3 scope and timelines Proposed Delivery Model Collaboration survey Q&A Collaboration Survey For a potential phase 3, DASA encourages collaboration between suppliers. To support this, they have a short survey to collect details of suppliers who wish to explore collaboration possibilities. This collaboration list will be circulated to all those who have signed up on a weekly basis. In contrast to phases 1 and 2, the potential phase 3 will likely be a grant competition and require match-funding from the bidders. The importance of Windfarm Mitigation for UK Air Defence Offshore wind will play an increasingly critical role in the UK’s renewable energy supply to enable Net Zero ambitions, as manifested by a 50GW target by 2030 and a Climate Change Committee (CCC) central scenario of at least 75GW of capacity by 2050. The offshore windfarm installations may adversely impact the quality of data obtained from the long-range Primary Surveillance Radars (PSR) which are the backbone of the UK’s Air Defence detection capability. A mitigating solution, or combination of solutions, is needed to enable the co-existence of windfarms and Air Defence and enable the deployment of offshore wind. Through the Joint Air Defence and Offshore Wind Task Force, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is currently working on procuring mitigation solutions in the near term, to enable the next generation of large-scale offshore windfarms to be built that will become operational from 2025 and beyond. This BEIS funded innovation programme is complementing the MOD work and focuses on helping to find solutions that will enable the long term co-existence of Air Defence and offshore wind. What happened in Phase 1 and 2? In Phase 1, £2 million worth of contracts were awarded to fast-track ideas for technologies that could mitigate the impact of windfarms on the UK’s Air Defence radar system. Learn more here . In Phase 2, seven projects were awarded a total of £3.8 million funding to develop technologies that support the coexistence of offshore windfarms and UK Air Defence systems. Learn more here .              

This content was originally published here.

[ultrajaphunter]

Delighted to start work this week on a new @innovateuk project, prototyping entirely new, user-portable, light-vehicle crossings Entire 60' bridges transported inside 5' hollow deck-planks Allowing any light vehicle to carry its own bridge kit #EasiBridge #GetOverIt @thinkdefence

Army gets behind new portable bridge system

17 May 19 The inventor of a new portable bridging system is working on his first military order.

Exeter-based EasiBridge is producing three bridges, three conveyors and a footbridge for the Royal Engineers Trials & Development Unit (RETDU) to try out.

EasiBridge was formed in 2017 in Exeter by Stephen Bright, a structural engineer previously with Cass Hayward.

He says his system is “the world’s first truly man-portable, long-span rescue/assault modular-bridge system”.  An 18-metre assault-bridge can be installed and crossed by just one man in under 20 seconds, he says.

His bridges can be transported and installed by a solo operative even with access from only one side.

The Defence & Security Accelerator (DASA) invested £77,086.80 in July 2018, tasking EasiBridge to adapt its product for defence and wider government use. With help from the Defence Science & Technology Laboratory, EasiBridge products have already been put through a series of military trials.

And the product range has developed, from footbridges to materials-handling ladder conveyors, fence-breaching frameworks to blast-resistant roofing systems – all from one kit of parts, using common, 5ft ladder sections.

Lucy Mason, head of DASA said: “This is a cross defence innovation success story. By embedding exploitation at the beginning of the innovation process and having the end user in mind throughout, it can lead to faster adoption of innovative ideas into defence and wider government. DASA is committed to supporting small businesses with great ideas and providing a platform upon which they can shine; EasiBridge did just this, attracting both UK and international interest.”

Stephen Bright said: “I am delighted that the Royal Engineers will be the first military unit to benefit from it. DASA support has been instrumental in developing a whole new range of gap crossing, force protection and specialist access capabilities.  I cannot tell you the renewed impetus this project has given us. After three years scratching around the wilderness, the last several months have already started to change everything. Exactly what DASA was intended to do, I’m sure.”

Got a story? Email news@theconstructionindex.co.uk

[truthshield]

DASA supports Dstl to supercharge science and innovation for defence and security

DASA supports Dstl to supercharge science and innovation for defence and security

Innovation experts from the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) participated in the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory’s (Dstl) Supercharging Science engagement day, held in Newport on 7 June 2022. The event set out the Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) most ambitious science and technology (S&T) programmes to date with details on Dstl’s technical challenges and requirements. Minister for…

[mellissatrabazojdm40]

Spire Receives UK Government Funding for an RF Signal Detection and Geolocation Project

Spire Receives UK Government Funding for an RF Signal Detection and Geolocation Project Spire Global, a leading provider of space-based data, analytics and space services, has been awarded significant funding by Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), a UK Government-backed program, as part of its Space to Innovate Campaign’s Themed Competition. The award, which represents the largest funding to date awarded to a Scottish innovator, will support the demonstration of radio frequency (RF) signals detection and geolocation from multiple satellites in Spire’s low earth orbit (LEO) nanosatellite constellation.

The RF spectrum is frequently at risk of unauthorized use, interference or manipulation and as a result, the monitoring of RF activity has become increasingly important to government entities. Spire’s capabilities in building and operating LEO multi-payload satellites capable of collecting and analyzing a wide variety of signals can play a crucial role in supporting this monitoring process. The company will demonstrate its ability to geolocate RF signals emitted near the Earth’s surface, focusing on L-Band SATCOM signals, and investigate further geolocation techniques using Spire nanosatellites designed and manufactured in Glasgow, Scotland.

The Space to Innovate Campaign was launched in collaboration with DASA and the Defence Technology Laboratory (Dstl) space program, to promote space resilience and operational effectiveness. The campaign seeks proposals that can maintain the UK’s freedom of action in the space domain by developing future space technologies that enhance and protect space military and civil potential.

The campaign format is unique from other DASA competitions and comprises space-related challenges that will be released in ‘drops’ throughout 2021 and 2022. This approach enables greater variation of contract values and durations to be issued by DASA, which provides larger and longer contracts for more mature technologies, whilst also enabling less mature innovations to be explored.

Theresa Condor, EVP & GM Spire Space Services at Spire Global said: “It is an honor for us to be selected by DASA for this mission in support of the UK Government and its defense activities and to be recognized as part of Scotland's innovative space technology scene. Using Spire expertise in signal detection and geolocation, the project will take advantage of our capabilities as a space services provider and utilize the expertise and heritage of our low earth orbit nanosatellite constellation, consisting of more than 100 satellites and 17 ground stations globally.”

Debra Carr, Innovation Partner at DASA, said: “I’m thrilled that Spire has been awarded this funding – the largest award we have given to an innovator in Scotland. They are a fantastic company to work with, and their impressive technology that helps us understand the present and potential impact of RF signal detection and geolocation is a great showcase of Scottish contributions to the space domain. This fund decision further reinforces the unique type of technologies that Scotland can offer defense.”

[billieluikartxct40]

Spire Receives UK Government Funding for an RF Signal Detection and Geolocation Project

Spire Receives UK Government Funding for an RF Signal Detection and Geolocation Project Spire Global, a leading provider of space-based data, analytics and space services, has been awarded significant funding by Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), a UK Government-backed program, as part of its Space to Innovate Campaign’s Themed Competition. The award, which represents the largest funding to date awarded to a Scottish innovator, will support the demonstration of radio frequency (RF) signals detection and geolocation from multiple satellites in Spire’s low earth orbit (LEO) nanosatellite constellation.

The RF spectrum is frequently at risk of unauthorized use, interference or manipulation and as a result, the monitoring of RF activity has become increasingly important to government entities. Spire’s capabilities in building and operating LEO multi-payload satellites capable of collecting and analyzing a wide variety of signals can play a crucial role in supporting this monitoring process. The company will demonstrate its ability to geolocate RF signals emitted near the Earth’s surface, focusing on L-Band SATCOM signals, and investigate further geolocation techniques using Spire nanosatellites designed and manufactured in Glasgow, Scotland.

The Space to Innovate Campaign was launched in collaboration with DASA and the Defence Technology Laboratory (Dstl) space program, to promote space resilience and operational effectiveness. The campaign seeks proposals that can maintain the UK’s freedom of action in the space domain by developing future space technologies that enhance and protect space military and civil potential.

The campaign format is unique from other DASA competitions and comprises space-related challenges that will be released in ‘drops’ throughout 2021 and 2022. This approach enables greater variation of contract values and durations to be issued by DASA, which provides larger and longer contracts for more mature technologies, whilst also enabling less mature innovations to be explored.

Theresa Condor, EVP & GM Spire Space Services at Spire Global said: “It is an honor for us to be selected by DASA for this mission in support of the UK Government and its defense activities and to be recognized as part of Scotland's innovative space technology scene. Using Spire expertise in signal detection and geolocation, the project will take advantage of our capabilities as a space services provider and utilize the expertise and heritage of our low earth orbit nanosatellite constellation, consisting of more than 100 satellites and 17 ground stations globally.”

Debra Carr, Innovation Partner at DASA, said: “I’m thrilled that Spire has been awarded this funding – the largest award we have given to an innovator in Scotland. They are a fantastic company to work with, and their impressive technology that helps us understand the present and potential impact of RF signal detection and geolocation is a great showcase of Scottish contributions to the space domain. This fund decision further reinforces the unique type of technologies that Scotland can offer defense.”

[navalpost]

Sonardyne and Wavefront showcase obstacle avoidance capability on UK’s test XLUUV

Sonardyne and Wavefront showcase obstacle avoidance capability on UK’s test XLUUV

Sonardyne and Wavefront’s underwater obstacle avoidance technology was successfully demonstrated onboard an extra-large, uncrewed underwater vehicle (XLUUV) constructed and operated by Plymouth-based MSubs Ltd. The Vigilant forward-looking sonar demonstration was part of the first phase of the UK’s Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) ‘Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle Testbed – Opportunity to…

[militaryleak]

Hadean Awarded Contract to Populate British Army Live Virtual and Constructive Training Using AI

Spatial computing company, Hadean, have been awarded competitive funding by the U.K. Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) to develop and scale a complex and representative synthetic human terrain for British Army simulations. This will take the form of a contract with the U.K. Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl). The project aims to enhance military training in land environments…

[thxnews]

DAIC Connect Ignites Defence Innovations

  A Gathering of AI Minds for Defence's Future

More than 70 AI companies showcased their cutting-edge innovations at the DAIC Connect event on Monday, November 27. The Defence AI Centre (DAIC), in collaboration with Chief Disruptor, orchestrated the event to create meaningful connections between industry leaders, academia, and defence teams.   Accelerating Innovation for Defence The primary goal of DAIC Connect was to foster a comprehensive understanding of the current AI market and facilitate new connections between industry players and the Ministry of Defence (MOD). This collaborative approach aims to expedite innovation, fortify the UK’s AI ecosystem, and strategically position the defence sector.  

Small Enterprises Make a Big Impact

The majority of attendees represented small and medium-sized enterprises, many of which had not previously collaborated with the MOD. Throughout the event, they engaged with senior staff and representatives from various defence teams. Eleven companies seized the opportunity to present a ten-minute pitch, outlining how their AI projects could enhance both current and future defence capabilities.   Networking and Collaboration Unleashed In the networking area, six sponsoring companies, along with DAIC, Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), and Defence Equipment & Support Digital (DE&S Digital) from the MOD, ran exhibition stands. This provided an additional platform for discussing innovations and addressing challenges encountered during AI development and adoption. Charlie Forte, MOD Chief Information Officer, stressed the importance of developing a dynamic and integrated relationship with a diverse group of industry partners. He highlighted that transformative solutions emerge through such partnerships, expressing delight at the event's diverse representation.  

Fostering Enthusiasm and Connections

Cdre Rachel Singleton RN, Head of DAIC, echoed the enthusiasm in the room, emphasizing the importance of events like DAIC Connect in fostering connections across the AI ecosystem. She highlighted the ongoing exploration of AI's potential in addressing defence challenges. Dina Kakaras, Head of Commercial X, shared insights into her team's efforts to drive the fast-paced acquisition of innovative military capabilities. She emphasized the role of SMEs in driving innovation, urging a start-small approach, embracing risk, and breaking down barriers for wider industry collaboration.  

Closing with Calls for Collaboration and Trust

The day concluded with speeches and a joint Q&A by Director of Defence Innovation John Ridge and Director of Strategy and Military Digitalisation, Defence Digital, Air Vice-Marshal David Arthurton. Ridge called for a collaborative approach, building on past efforts in achieving what he termed "Innovation 2.0." Air Vice-Marshal Arthurton highlighted the critical role of trust in uniting stakeholders for this transformative journey.   Industry Perspective on DAIC Connect Paul Jones, VP UK Business Development at CrateDB, expressed pride in being part of DAIC Connect. He described it as a unique event where MOD's leading AI teams showcased challenges and opportunities, generating enthusiasm and interest among participants.   About the DAIC The Defence AI Centre, established in 2022 following the 2021 Integrated Review, has the mandate to accelerate AI adoption in defence. Championing safe and responsible AI use, its mission is to enable innovation and bridge the gap between defence and cutting-edge technology.   Sources: THX News & Ministry of Defence. Read the full article

[xtruss]

British Military Aims to Be World’s First With ‘Zero-Carbon’ Aircraft

How much more aggression can you justify when you've got highly moral all-gay crews and "zero-carbon" aircraft?

— Highly Moral Empire | Not Satire | Andrew Chuter

— Defense News

“the service is looking to invest in a privately held company that produces a novel organic refining capability to generate a more stable and higher calorific fuel than Jet A-1 using apples and lavender” ???

Britain’s Royal Air Force has set a goal of becoming the first military service in the world to register and certify a zero-carbon aircraft.

The service has already tapped industry for exploitable technology to start replacing a fleet of RAF light training aircraft. If the program goes as planned, Britain could have their first zero-carbon platform flying by around 2027, according to a market exploration document released in July by the government’s Defence and Security Accelerator organization.

“The decision has been taken to ensure that the next generation aircraft will produce zero carbon emissions at the point of use. This target must be achieved through more environmentally sympathetic aircraft using a sustainable fuel source such as electric or hydrogen; the goal is to achieve the first military registered and certified zero-carbon aircraft in the world,” the DASA document read. “An entry into service date of circa 2027 is anticipated.”

However, Armed Forces Minister James Heappey was more vague about a possible in-service date when he responded to questions about the project in Parliament on July 21. “It is expected that the RAF will have its first zero-emission aircraft operational by the end of this decade,” he told lawmakers.

The new aircraft is to replace 90 piston-powered Grob 115 aircraft, colloquially known as Tutor T1 planes, currently providing elementary flight training for the British military.

The aircraft project, led by the RAF’s Rapid Capabilities Office, will feed into a wider program known as Project Telum — an end-to-end solution aimed at modernizing elementary flight training, including the use of synthetic and virtual training.

The competition for Project Telum is slated to start in 2023, but Heappey said the date remains unconfirmed.

The zero-carbon aircraft would replace the Tutor T1 planes, shown, currently providing elementary flight training for the British military. (Adrian Dennis/AFP via Getty Images) (AFP via Getty Images)

The original intention had been to replace the Tutor T1 planes with another conventionally powered aircraft, but the change in thinking is being driven by a much wider RAF effort toward achieving zero-carbon by 2040, 10 years ahead of the government’s national policy of being carbon neutral by 2050.

Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Mike Wigston said in a July 14 speech to the Global Air Chiefs’ Conference in London that he had set the net-zero goal’s deadline of 2040 before it was imposed on him by the government. “Everything I see and hear tells me that [the government’s] 2050 date will come forward,” he said.

In an article in a Royal Air Forces Association magazine earlier this year, Air Marshal Andy Turner, the service’s deputy commander for capability, hinted at the possibility of achieving emission-reduction goals sooner than 2040, saying the force would like to do it by “2030 if we can.”

The RAF is not looking to tackle the challenges of achieving zero emissions in isolation, though. Wigston wrote to global air force chiefs in June advocating for a climate convention later this year to coordinate, cohere and catalyze change across the world’s air forces. As of press time, there were no concrete plans for such a climate convention.

An emissions-free trainer by 2027 is an ambitious target, but it would be an eye-catching achievement for RAF sustainability, not least because the service is one of the biggest government offenders when it comes to environmentally unfriendly emissions.

Industry responses to DASA — created by the Defence Ministry to find and help fund exploitable innovations in the defense and security sectors — are due by Aug. 17. That could be followed by an industry day for potential technology suppliers in September.

In its market-testing document, DASA said it was aware of multiple initiatives in the development of unconventionally fueled platforms in the general aviation sector, but that several of the requirements for the military were quite specific and potentially unique.

Included in the DASA list of essentials for an elementary trainer was a requirement for 90 minutes of endurance and a 20-minute turnaround.

An electric or hydrogen-powered trainer would be just the tip of the iceberg, as a rapidly increasing number of initiatives with the ministry and armed services, particularly the Royal Air Force, are progressing under carbon-neutral goals laid out in the government’s recently published “Climate Change and Sustainability Strategy Approach” road map.

Specifically, the Rapid Capabilities Office is leading work on synthetic fuels to reduce RAF emissions. Wigston told the air chiefs conference that the effort “includes exciting advances in waste-to-fuel technology through to electrofuels.”

“These new approaches are environmentally friendly and sustainable. They are also secure in their supply, and the chemically purer fuel we are producing indicates cleaner engines that results in lower maintenance; longer equipment life; and lower noise, heat and visual signatures, such as contrails,” he said.

Air Chief Marshal Mike Wigston talks to Royal Air Force personnel from 903 Expeditionary Air Wing in the operational hangar at RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus, in 2019. (Cpl. Nicholas Egan/British Royal Air Force) (Cpl Nicholas Egan)

The Royal Air Force’s sustainability efforts have already shown positive results. In 2019, for example, F-35 base RAF Marham installed an anaerobic digester that produced 95 percent of the base’s energy needs, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 14,000 ton per year and saving nearly £300,000 (U.S. $413,640) annually in energy bills.

Turner also noted potential energy-saving ideas during the RAF Association interview, from recycling hydrocarbons using microbes to extending the reach of synthetic training into new areas of activity.

But it’s the replacement of conventional fuel with cleaner, sustainable methods of powering the aircraft that has generated the most interest as the RAF heads toward the extensive use of sustainable aircraft fuels, or SAF. Last September saw the defense standard for aviation fuel changed to allow a 50 percent blend of SAF with hydrocarbons. A move to 100 percent use of SAF for some types of RAF aircraft is now on the cards, offering potentially significant gains in emission reductions.

During a panel session at the Farnborough Connect event in mid-July, Turner told participants the RAF hopes to “fly a 100 percent SAF-powered aircraft this side of Christmas, and move that fleet to 100 percent in about two years’ time.”

Turner didn’t divulge the aircraft type destined to make the initial conversion to synthetic fuel.

An RAF spokesman told Defense News on July 22 that “there are three options running on this timeline. However, for commercial reasons we are not able to offer any detail at this stage.”

Flying the RAF’s current assets with a 50-50 mix is already possible; the main reasons that hasn’t happened are supply limitations and price. Turner said SAF is currently up to four time more expensive than conventional Jet A-1 fuel, and Wigston said there’s a lack of “an assured supply.”

To overcome those roadblocks, the service is looking to invest in a privately held company that produces a novel organic refining capability to generate a more stable and higher calorific fuel than Jet A-1 using apples and lavender.

The RAF spokesman said an investment deal with the unnamed company was in the works, but not completed. He said more information may be available in September.

— Source: Defense News

[easycompzeeland]

MoD seeks security tech to harden military systems

MoD seeks security tech to harden military systems

The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) has launched a new Innovation Focus Area, or IFA, to seek out and develop technologies that will reduce the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD’s) exposure to cyber attacks on its systems and platforms. Dubbed Reducing the cyber attack surface, the new IFA is being run on behalf of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) and Defence Science and…