Cohort plc company SEA has completed a demonstration of new technologies that could revolutionise the way armed forces operate in combat situations.
The new systems have been developed by SEA and its team partners as part of the Delivering Dismounted Effect (DDE) Research project. SEA was prime contractor to the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) on the DDE Research project and headed a team from industry and academia delivering integrated dismounted soldier systems research to the UK MoD.
The new systems being considered include technologies for weapons, helmets, torso protection and night vision systems using each element as a separate weapons platform.
In particular, the DDE research investigated the technical feasibility, benefits and costs associated with integrating power and data onto the weapon and helmet. All the systems have been designed to meet the challenges required by an adaptable and flexible force dealing with evolving threats and it is envisaged will be part of the equipment and design of the future soldier.
It is also planned that the technologies designed under the DDE Project will lead to enhanced collaborative engagement across multi-national forces and will help the military and government consider the lethality-related implications of females operating in ground combat roles.
The research was displayed at a special event at the Infantry Trials and Development Unit (IT&DU) in Warminster.
SEA Managing Director Stephen Hill, said: “We are proud to have led this vital research project which will bolster the operational effectiveness of the next generation of soldiers.
“There is tremendous potential to increase the capability of weapons and equipment while at the same time improving data sharing and situational awareness between combat forces and their partners. The DDE project will provide a step change in the way our forces approach future combat situations.”
SEA was able to bring to Soldier System Research comprehensive knowledge of military operational environments and in-depth understanding of key technology domains. This has been developed over the past ten years through work on a range of research projects including Urban Operations Study, Future Dismounted Close Combat (FDCC) and Delivering Dismounted Effect (DDE) projects.
Cohort plc is an independent technology company and the parent company of five innovative, agile and responsive businesses, EID MASS, MCL, SCS and SEA, providing a wide range of services and products for UK, Portugal and international customers in defence, security and related markets.
SEA was acquired by Cohort plc in 2007 and today is a major supplier of applied research, technology development, systems integration, specialist electronic systems, engineering and software design services to the defence and security markets. Its engineering and project management skills include naval communications systems, maritime combat systems, through-life support, dismounted soldier systems, subsea engineering and traffic enforcement.
Complementing its work for the UK Ministry of Defence, SEA is growing its business overseas and extending its expertise into adjacent markets, including offshore, railways and roads. SEA employs circa 300 high-calibre staff and has offices in Beckington, Bristol, Barnstaple and Aberdeen.
