Systematic supports Hensoldt radar integration

Integration of radar system into SitaWare Headquarters bolsters maritime domain awareness

Systematic engineers have recently completed the successful integration of the Hensoldt SharpEye Mk 11 radar system into SitaWare Headquarters, in support of the Irish Naval Services’ (INS’) Samuel Beckett-class offshore patrol vessels.

Through the integration, absolute positions of vessels are identified by the radar, with tracks then added into the recognised maritime picture (RMP) in SitaWare Headquarters using an OTH-Gold data gateway.

“This integration gives the INS the ability to maximise the data gathered from its shipborne radar systems and distribute it across users in the maritime domain. By integrating it into SitaWare Headquarters, the ability to support the generation of a RMP that is updated and synchronised in near real-time brings major benefits to maritime operations,” says Systematic Lead Solution Architect Chris Harris.

Hensoldt’s SharpEye Mk 11 radar features the Kelvin Hughes solid-state SharpEye transceiver, with a solid-state pulse Doppler coherent radar system. The radar is designed to be used in poor weather, lighting, and visibility, and is used for marine navigation, collision avoidance, target surveillance, and situational awareness. The system provides advanced small target detection capability, as well as 2D surface surveillance capability.

Defence Forces Ireland (DFI) employs SitaWare Headquarters on a range of levels – from SitaWare Headquarters on its ships and maritime patrol aircraft, to joint operations centres ashore that help to co-ordinate operations in the country’s expansive exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Operations conducted in support of national security, such as narcotics interdiction and fisheries protection, have all benefited from the use of the SitaWare suite. In addition to SitaWare Headquarters, the INS employs SitaWare Frontline and SitaWare Edge on rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) and with boarding teams.

Featuring an open-architecture design, the SitaWare suite can be extended to support the integration of sensors and subsystems to ensure that the intelligence they create can be delivered around the battlespace. Leveraging over 20 different interoperability standards, the SitaWare suite is able to transfer and deliver data into a common operational picture in support of enhanced situational awareness. The synchronisation of operational data around the area of operations gives commanders the ability to have an overview of the disposition of their own units, contacts of interest, and more.

For more information, please contact Charles Forrester, Communications Manager (Defence), at Charles.Forrester@systematic.com.