https://www.qinetiq.com/
QinetiQ Group plc
A company registered in England and Wales
Registered company name QinetiQ Group plc
QinetiQ CEO Steve Wadey
Company registration no. 4586941
Registered office
Cody Technology Park
Ively Road
Farnborough
Hampshire
GU14 0LX
Qinetiq logo Sectors Expertise Solutions Search
Our History
QinetiQ was formed in July 2001, when the Ministry of Defence (MOD) split its Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA) in two. The smaller portion of DERA, was rebranded Dstl (Defence Science & Technology Laboratory).
The larger part of DERA, including most of the non-nuclear testing and evaluation establishments, was renamed QinetiQ and prepared for privatisation. QinetiQ became a public private partnership in 2002 with the purchase of a stake by US-based private equity company the Carlyle Group.
In 2003, QinetiQ signed a 25 year long term partnering agreement (LTPA) under which we provide UK MOD with innovative and realistic test and evaluation of military and civil platforms, systems, weapons and components on land, at sea and in the air. In February 2006, QinetiQ was successfully floated on the London Stock Exchange and the Carlyle Group sold its stake in the company.
What's in a name?
The name 'QinetiQ' results from extensive analysis of all of our capabilities and strengths. It is derived from the scientific term, kinetic, which means relating to or caused by motion. This in turn comes from the Greek kinetikos based on 'kineo', which means 'to move', with connotations towards energetic, enterprising and dynamic. 'QinetiQ' was seen as particularly distinctive and reflects our spirit of innovation and creativity, but also energy, motion and progress.
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Timeline
2014
An engineer working on TANAP pipeline
OptaSense wins two Queen's awards
Our work on the 1850km TANAP pipeline will be the world's largest fibre distributed sensing project, providing a single monitoring system that integrates leak detection and third party interference prevention.
3
TANAP pipeline spans across three countries
2010
Zephyr - an unmanned aerial vehicle
Zephyr, a high-altitude long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle, achieves three official world records
Today we have built on our unmanned aerial capabilities with the addition of QinetiQ Target Systems to our global offering.
40
QinetiQ Target Systems have customers in over 40 countries
2008
Qinetiq logo
QinetiQ bought Ball, Novare and Aerostructures, which now form part of our Australian business
In 2017 our Australian business won the Strategic Support Partnership Contract for the Australian Government's procurement of maritime patrol aircraft.
2003
The first rocket launching into space from UK soil
Long Term Partnering Agreement signed with the MOD for test and evaluation services
In 2015 the At Sea Demonstration took place at the MOD Hebrides range. There were a number of world firsts including the first rocket launch into space from UK soil.
ASD15
Enabled the first intercept of a ballistic missile in the UK
2001
Computer screen showing SPO-NX in practice
Millimetre Wave Camera invented
We are working with the US's Transportation Security Administration to develop SPO-NX, a stand-off detection system that locates potential threats concealed under clothing.
15
Scanning range of up to 15 metres
1977
Pressurised low-speed wind tunnel
Pressurised low-speed wind tunnel opens
Every few seconds a Boeing aircraft takes off and lands that has been tested in our low-speed wind tunnel.
3
Every three seconds a Boeing aircraft takes off or lands
1972
Qinetiq logo
A remote controlled robot 'The Wheelbarrow' is designed for use by the British Army bomb disposal teams
Today, we are one of the world's leading suppliers of military robots. Our latest security and first responder robot is capable of lifting over 50kg (110lbs).
50kg
lift weight
1971
Britain's first satellite - Prospero
Britain's first satellite 'Prospero' launched
Recently our experiments investigating how astronaut's bodies adapt to microgravity have been delivered to the International Space Station.
1963
QinetiQ logo
MOD patent granted for manufacturing carbon fibre
Our new material, TitanWeave, absorbs energy to make aircraft structures three times more resistant to impacts from birds or miniature drone strikes.
1953
The free-flight capable active gondola
The centrifuge in Farnborough opens
Today, the Flight Physiological Centre we operate in Sweden has a free-flight-capable active gondola used for high-G training and flight simulation.
30ft
The Dynamic Flight Simulator in Sweden has 30ft arm length
1943
The empire test pilot's school class
Empire Test Pilot's School is founded
In 2016 we won a contract to update aircraft and introduce a new syllabus to meet future military and commercial test aircrew training needs.
12
ETPS students have become astronauts, including Major Tim Peake
1908
Qinetiq logo
Samuel Cody makes the first UK manned aeroplane flight in Farnborough
In 2016, we delivered a world first, Unmanned Warrior, in partnership with the Royal Navy. It was the largest demonstration of unmanned systems alongside a major multinational naval exercise.
400+
participants
50+
unmanned vehicles
Products & Concepts
We develop products, technologies, tools and concepts to solve complex challenges for our customers.
From counter drone systems to electromagnetic attack detection, our teams of researchers, scientists and engineers innovate to ensure you remain ahead of unpredictable threats. We lead research into areas from advanced materials and power sources, to robotics and weapons, developing technologies of the future.
Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Aircraft impact protection material
TitanWeave™ is a patented technology that we have developed that relies on the efficient, controlled introduction of a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) into a fibre reinforced plastic. It provides cost-effective, lightweight and penetration resistant composites.
BROCHURE
TitanWeave Brochure
Challenge
With OEMs and airlines constantly striving to decrease emissions and lower costs, utilising technologies that reduce mass and manufacturing cost is increasingly important.
Fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) composites offer the required high strength, low mass material solution, and are starting to be used widely across the aerospace industry. However, optimising the use of FRPs materials remains a challenge.
Aircraft are operating in environments where foreign object impact (FOI) threats are considerable; for example, it’s estimated that one in every 1,000 UK flights is subjected to a bird strike. The relatively poor impact performance of traditional fibre reinforced plastics necessitates the design of far heavier FRP components to ensure post-impact structural integrity.
Solution
To address this challenge, we have developed TitanWeave™, an innovative patented process that combines fibre reinforced plastics with shapememory alloy (SMA), enabling the optimised use of composites and potentially reducing the mass of current composite components by up to 40%.
Our TitanWeave™ technology combines SMA wire, which can withstand large amounts of elastic and plastic deformation at high stresses, with traditional FRPs. The SMA element provides the enhanced ability to absorb energy before structural penetration, presenting a significant step change in FRP impact performance. The selection, geometry and architecture of the SMAs are controlled to ensure that the high specifications of the FRP are retained.
Additionally, TitanWeave™ is a multifunctional material; currently, composite structures that require protection against environmental effects or lightning strike typically use a parasitic material added to the surface of the structure, incurring additional cost and mass. Incorporating TitanWeave™ technology can eliminate the need for parasitic layers, offering further cost and mass reduction, and simplifying traditional manufacturing techniques.
Key Benefits
Three-fold increase in penetration resistance
Facilitates greater use of composite materials
Multifunctional material for impact energy absorption and additional functionality, e.g. lightning strike protection
Enables optimum use of composites, reducing mass and costStealth Wind Turbines
Stealth Wind Turbines
We have applied our vast experience in stealth technologies to the wind farm sector. Working alongside EDF Energies Nouvelles and turbine manufacturer Vestas, we integrated an innovative material that is applied without structural change to wind turbines to reduce their radar signature by up to 99%. This technology enabled France’s largest wind farm to be installed without significant interference to the weather radar located nearby.
Around the world it is increasingly difficult to find suitable areas for the development of wind energy. In France, around 80% of wind farm planning applications are currently refused if they are near to French weather radars. This is due to the interference caused by wind turbines to radar measurements. The signals reflecting off the tower and moving blades are indistinguishable to the radar from objects such as rain or hail that they are designed to detect.
We were able to utilise years of stealth expertise and research to develop lightweight, radar absorbing materials that could integrate with the turbines. This innovative solution was a world first, and demonstrated excellent enhancement and application of what was originally defence technology.
Radar impact assessment modelling, prototype manufacturing and testing using our multiband portable radar confirmed that our stealth solution could be integrated into the turbines without significantly altering their physical characteristics or manufacturing process.
Our innovative patented technology is enhanced with a well-established material supply chain, and represents a breakthrough for the wind energy sector. Radar weather stations are just one example of a system that could be detrimentally impacted by wind farms; other objections come from military and airfields where radar is essential – our technology can diminish this threat by making the apparent radar signature size of the turbine much smaller, giving stealth wind turbines a chance to thrive in what were previously unobtainable areas, and coexist with existing facilities.
AI, Analytics & Advanced Computing
Satellite based tracking
We have developed a simple highly effective ‘pay-as-you-go’ satellite-based asset tracking service, which enables you to have complete control of all your assets at any given time. The service provides truly global coverage, enhancing situational awareness by enabling the user to locate and track their assets 24/7.
Bushman Commander
A robust command and control terminal designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind. It builds on the success of the existing Bushman tracking system in use by the British armed forces. Providing a level of robustness proven by ISAF NATO operations in Afghanistan. The commander receives its data from two independent paths to ensure the user is always connected anywhere in the world.
Bushman Air
A flight cleared tracking solution for use in the airborne environment. The modem unit can be placed remotely in the avionics bay, while the control unit can be integrated directly into the cockpit. It includes a quick release mechanism to enable the tracker to be used by aircrew should they become compromised.
Bushman Dismounted
A lightweight handheld personal tracking device which can be easily attached to body armour or webbing for the combat fighting soldier. Highly flexible, the unit can be set into a range of modes including; motion activation, text messaging and immediate emergency alert notification.
Bushman Mobile
Capable of operating from either vehicle power or battery, Bushman Mobile provides NATO coalition forces with an accurate and up to date battle picture. The ruggedized device operates in the harshest of operational theatre environments matching the tempo and rigour of current military operations.
Cyber & Electromagnetic Technologies
Growing Threats and Hazards of Electromagnetic Disruption
Electronics are all around us. They are a part of everything we do in modern society, and we are heavily dependent on them to keep our world and our daily lives running smoothly. Anything containing electronics can be disrupted.
The threat posed by Electromagnetic (EM) disruption - also known as Intentional and unintentional EM interference (IEMI and EMI); EM Pulse (EMP); and Electronic Attack is increasingly critical given the reliance of today’s society on sophisticated electronics systems for critical functionality. Electromagnetic disruption is also unique in that, because it is a radiofrequency attack, it doesn’t require a physical connection to the equipment to attack it – it can be done at distance. As a result, it can not be detected by traditional cyber-physical security approaches, and quite often leaves no trace.
As our cities, services and key industries increasingly embrace technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Autonomous ‘everything’ as part of what is dubbed the 4th Industrial revolution; we are facing highly complex, interconnected environments which are increasingly dependent on the performance and resilience of digital electronic infrastructure. Combined with a historic lack of understanding of this threat, this rush for connectivity is creating wide vulnerabilities in systems and networks, which are leaving digital infrastructures open to Electromagnetic disruption. This presents serious and significant business continuity, reputational and life threatening risks.
Any organisation looking to protect its infrastructure should look to ensure that EM disruptive threats and hazards are managed in collaboration with cyber and physical security to form an overarching resilience strategy, in-line with legislative guidance.
The cornerstone of effective resilience and timely recovery is informed decision making and therefore detection and attribution of EM disruption is vital to this process.
SyBard Diode
SyBard Diode provides secure cross-domain data flow for high speed, high assurance, and guaranteed one-way data flow. Where security requirements or commercial sensitivities necessitate physical separation between networks, seemingly simple tasks such as applying application updates and patches can become manpower intensive.
Removable media (DVDs, USB drives) are often used to move data from one system to another which, in addition to being time consuming, can also prove difficult to audit. Moreover, near real-time data transfer, for example in support of protective monitoring, is practically impossible with these media. SyBard Diode overcomes these challenges.
Benefits
Provides a secure and accreditable means to alleviate the security issues associated with air-gapped networks
Can be easily integrated into existing architectures
Provides data leakage protection when deployed for data import
Protection from attack against the export system during data export
Unique selling points
In order to suit a range of deployment scenarios, SyBard Diode is available in four distinct configurations:
Standard Diode provides a simple solution to move data from a single source network to a single destination network.
Multi-headed Diodes are designed for data aggregation from multiple source networks into a single destination network, for example to monitor the status of a number of networks by consolidating log information into a single domain.
Multi-tailed Diodes are used to push data from a single source network to multiple destination networks. A typical use case for this is rolling out anti-virus updates to a number of separate networks.
Highly Available Diodes are suitable where the highest levels of resilience and performance are required, and ensure continuous service even in the event of system component failure.
Human Protection & Performance
Stand-off Threat Detection
works on the millimeter wave form so should be designated as a weapon system
SPO-NX is a passive stand-off system capable of screening large groups of people to detect potential concealed threats. It does not generate an image of individuals’ bodies, but will display a potential threat level on detection of an object concealed under clothing, such as large weapons, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and contraband.
The system is based on technology that has no Radio Frequency (RF) emission and is therefore harmless to individuals being scanned. SPO-NX can scan a crowd of people, without disrupting their movements, thus minimising inconvenience. When it detects a potential threat, an alarm is activated at the operator’s workstation, as well as a visual depiction of the potential threat.
The use of SPO-NX does not disrupt pedestrian traffic and reduces the burden of screening, queuing and inconvenience to the general public.
Benefits
Detects concealed threat objects under a person’s clothing
Can be used in an uncontrolled environment, negating the need for people to have to queue to pass through scanner systems, thus reducing delays and inconvenience
A visual display unit (VDU) provides a visual representation of a potential threat and gives an audible alert to the operator, enabling swift threat assessment and tasking of other assets to mitigate the threat
Does not impact on peoples’ ability to move through a crowded environment, but is still able to indicate untoward or threatening behaviour
Deployable in both internal and external environments to provide perimeter protection; when placed at the exterior of a perimeter, can provide early threat detection
Because it does not generate an image of the human body, there are no issues regarding invasion of personal privacy of those being scanned (holds a US Privacy Impact Assessment Certificate)
Readily portable; it can be deployed by a single person in less than five minutes and be operational a further five minutes. This provides an extremely flexible capability that can be tailored to the operator’s requirements
A stand-alone capability that does not require any fixed infrastructure
Unique selling points
SPO-NX can scan a large group of people and will give both a visual indication and an audible alarm when a potential threat is detected. The operator can then cue other assets to respond to this threat. Because there is no requirement for individuals to interact with the system when being scanned, the use of SPO-NX does not disrupt pedestrian movement through the area of interest and has no impact on the individuals being screened.
Essentially, it enables pedestrian movement to continue without inconvenience, but enables screening to be conducted in areas that would previously have been impracticable.
Vehicle Arrest System
The X-Net® Vehicle Arrest System: A non-lethal, man portable system to fully arrest vehicles with minimal harm
Conventional vehicle stopping systems, such as spike strip devices, rely on puncturing tyres; a result that can lead to out of control vehicles that can continue movement for a considerable time and distance. The inherent dangers that these devices carry have been addressed by QinetiQ’s Scientists and Engineers. The result of their work is X-Net®, offering distinct advantages over other systems.
Portable, quick, effective, safe
The X-Net® system was developed in the UK to meet the needs of a specific British Army requirement for a lightweight, heavy-duty-construction vehicle arrest system. In trials, as opposed to conventional systems, X-Net® reduced the risk of the target vehicle continuing for some time and distance before stopping. X-Net® was developed for this purpose and met all of the British Army’s requirements. Now in use by law enforcement and security customers around the world, X-Net® allows for the swift and safe capture of vehicles and decreases the risk of injury or death to occupants of the vehicle and surrounding personnel by being portable, quick, effective and safe.
X-Net® can arrest a vehicle within a similar distance to an emergency stop
The retardation force is less than 1g – providing a low risk to occupants
Larger vehicles can be stopped with X-Net®[3t] stopping power effective up to 3 tonnes and X-Net®[10t] effective up to 10 tonnes.
Laser Technologies
QinetiQ is proud to be part of UK DRAGONFIRE, a consortium working to achieve a significant step change in the UK’s high energy laser weapon systems capability.
Through a new laser capability demonstrator programme Team DRAGONFIRE will provide the basis for technology-driven operational advantage for UK MOD. The programme will mature the key technologies for a high energy defensive laser weapon system, enabling the engagement of representative targets on land and at sea in 2019. Using our testing and evaluation expertise, we are able to ensure a successful demonstration to conduct trials over land and water at various trials sites that we operate for UK MOD under the Long Term Partnering Agreement.
This will provide the body of evidence for future procurement decisions alongside developing UK industrial capability and know-how, so that collectively the UK can respond more effectively to both threats and the emerging business opportunities in the UK and overseas.
Platform and System Design and Assessment
QinetiQ’s suite of marine software solutions help designers, ship yards and operators create aesthetically pleasing vessels that are safe and efficient to design, build and operate. Helping you fashion effective stable hull forms, assess sea keeping attributes, optimise powering, study manoeuvring, test survivability and manage on-board loading.
Trusted partner to the maritime industry
QinetiQ’s software is trusted by Naval Architects, Engineers and Officers in over 200 organisations around the world to help them optimise the design and operation of everything from aircraft carriers and submarines to commercial ships and mega-yachts.
We have a rich maritime heritage with its roots in Froude’s model testing facilities at our Haslar Maritime Technology Park - which supports a wide range of design, modelling and physical test facilities and laboratories.
Co-located on a 12 hectare secure site, our software team work closely with our model experimenters, engineers and scientists supporting in-service fleets – offering a unique capability, confidentiality and the latest in design expertise.
Paramarine®
Paramarine® is an integrated Naval Architecture design and analysis toolset. It enables seamless collaboration between global teams and maximises the efficiency of your designer's creativity.
Modular Software
Paramarine® is a modular software package with Siemens PLM Parasolid® modelling tool at its heart. This means you, the user, can tailor the toolset to suit your needs by selecting the required modules in addition to the core modeller. Modules are fully integrated such that all design and analysis work takes place within one common environment thereby eliminating the need for data exports to other packages.
Team Paramarine
Team Paramarine® enables collaboration functionality for users located in different places wishing to work on the same design simultaneously. Paramarine®, the Naval Architecture toolset, is used locally on an individual's computer and links to a Team Paramarine® database repository hosted on a central server via an intranet or vpn connection. Administration of model manipulation tasks, user control, accounts, and other tasks are all handled within Team Paramarine® to deliver. A new and even more advanced, feature rich, version of Team Paramarine® is in testing and will be launched in the very near future.
Support and Training
Our development strategy ensures Paramarine® is updated both generically, and on a customer focused basis. Many of our users require specific functionality to analyse their innovative work. Implementation of agreed upgrades are provided as standard on future software updates. Additionally we provide training courses tailored to the customer’s needs, delivered either in country, or at our offices in the UK. Where necessary QinetiQ can provide design support services to assist.
Features & Benefits
Value for money naval architecture application for initial vessel design
Expandable with modules to meet your needs
3D NURBS geometry - easily visualise design and compartment definition
Reduced design time - rapidly generate complex hull forms/compartment subdivision
Intuitive GUI is extremely flexible and powerful, facilitating training and integration into the design office
Software is in continuous development
Bespoke solutions can be developed to meet customer needs
Supported by a range of training packages
Contact us
Paramarine@QinetiQ.com
+44 (0) 2392 334 003
Survive®
SURVIVE® is a comprehensive modelling and assessment toolset that helps Naval Architects ensure warships, commercial shipping and mega-yachts are designed to survive in an increasingly complex world.
SeaWeigh™
SeaWeigh™ is Paramarine's intuitive on-board loading & stability module. Used for planning and enhanced vessel loading, it additionally provides assurance of safe operation in port and at sea, and enables ship to shore stability reporting for management operations.
About QinetiQ
QinetiQ is dedicated to defending sovereign capability, protecting lives and securing the vital interests of our customers. We have 6,000+ people with unique science and engineering expertise. Operating across 50+ sites in Europe, North America, Australia and the Asia Pacific region, QinetiQ works with government, industry and academia to innovate for our customers’ advantage.
SeaWeigh™ is Paramarine's intuitive on-board loading & stability module. Used for planning and enhanced vessel loading, it additionally provides assurance of safe operation in port and at sea, and enables ship to shore stability reporting for management operations.
Effective Solution
Having extensive user control, whilst being fast, and primarily developed to be user friendly, Paramarine's onboard solution enables the Deck Officers to generate vital loading calculations, strength assessments and compliance checks in an efficient yet cost effective manner.
Primarily developed for complex ships as part of the Paramarine® Naval Architecture toolset, SeaWeigh™ provides a stable, robust and user friendly on-board solution to perform loading, strength and a host of other compliance checks. SeaWeigh™ is suitable for a range of vessels including Tankers, Warships, Cargo Ships, Yachts and Passenger Ships.
Type Approved
Benefiting from Lloyds' Register approval and certification process, SeaWeigh™ is approved for Type 1 and Type 3 loading, the latter being capable of intact and damage stability assessment for predefined damage cases based on Conventions or Codes, and for each loading condition. Additionally, further benefits include its Type 4 capability due to its ability to easily perform calculations for real loading conditions and actual flooding cases.
Proven
The software's capability is well proven through its use on MoD Warships, and is in constant use for loading and damage analysis. Features include Bridge Visibility compliance, Emergency Response Service capability, I/O linking to tank sounding system and other IMS feeds, with many other features as expected from a tried and tested product. QinetiQ's team of highly experienced software engineers and naval architects import your Paramarine® model, or vessel data, into SeaWeigh™ for uploading to an onboard computer.
Features and Benefits
Full 3D-model based calculations
Dual mode – planning and live
Class rule longitudinal strength
Warns users of non-compliance
User defined damages
Docking planner
SeaWeigh™ is Paramarine's intuitive on-board loading & stability module. Used for planning and enhanced vessel loading, it additionally provides assurance of safe operation in port and at sea, and enables ship to shore stability reporting for management operations.
Effective Solution
Having extensive user control, whilst being fast, and primarily developed to be user friendly, Paramarine's onboard solution enables the Deck Officers to generate vital loading calculations, strength assessments and compliance checks in an efficient yet cost effective manner.
Primarily developed for complex ships as part of the Paramarine® Naval Architecture toolset, SeaWeigh™ provides a stable, robust and user friendly on-board solution to perform loading, strength and a host of other compliance checks. SeaWeigh™ is suitable for a range of vessels including Tankers, Warships, Cargo Ships, Yachts and Passenger Ships.
Type Approved
Benefiting from Lloyds' Register approval and certification process, SeaWeigh™ is approved for Type 1 and Type 3 loading, the latter being capable of intact and damage stability assessment for predefined damage cases based on Conventions or Codes, and for each loading condition. Additionally, further benefits include its Type 4 capability due to its ability to easily perform calculations for real loading conditions and actual flooding cases.
Proven
The software's capability is well proven through its use on MoD Warships, and is in constant use for loading and damage analysis. Features include Bridge Visibility compliance, Emergency Response Service capability, I/O linking to tank sounding system and other IMS feeds, with many other features as expected from a tried and tested product. QinetiQ's team of highly experienced software engineers and naval architects import your Paramarine® model, or vessel data, into SeaWeigh™ for uploading to an onboard computer.
Features and Benefits
Full 3D-model based calculations
Dual mode – planning and live
Class rule longitudinal strength
Warns users of non-compliance
User defined damages
Docking planner
Power Sources, Energy Storage & Distribution
Solar Electric Propulsion
Our range of Electric Propulsion engines are robust, low cost and high powered systems designed for commercial and scientific applications. Our electric propulsion systems can be used for a range of missions:
Earth observation
Interplanetary science
Communications and navigation
Thruster
T5
T6
T7
Power class
1 kW
5 kW
7 kW
Mass
2 kg
8.5 kg
13 kg
Grid diameter
10 cm
22 cm
30 cm
Discharge type
Kaufman
Kaufman
Ring Cusp
T5 Gridded Ion Thruster
The T5 thruster is a Kaufman DC discharge, gridded ion thruster with flight heritage on ESA’s GOCE mission, and with a number of key functional assemblies with heritage from the UK-10 thruster, flown on ESA’s Artemis satellite.
The T5 is particularly well suited for a range of applications, including constellations, in-orbit servicing, debris removal platforms or bespoke institutional missions such as GOCE. This sub 1 kW class thruster has an inherently wide operational envelope allowing performance to be optimised according to the mission requirements, trading-off between thrust level and fuel efficiency (ISP) for the available power.
The T5 Mk5a is an up-to-date thruster which addresses obsolescences from the MK5 GOCE design. The T5 Mk6 features design enhancements to improve robustness and increase the maximum operating capability. Stated performance is indicative and can be optimised according to mission requirements.
Electric propulsion
T6 Gridded Ion Thruster
The T6 thruster is a Kaufman DC discharge, gridded ion thruster with flight heritage on ESA’s BepiColombo mission, for which four T6 thrusters form the primary propulsion system on the journey to Mercury.
The T6 is particularly well suited for GEO and MEO applications and high power interplanetary missions such as BepiColombo. This 5 kW class thruster has a wide operational envelope and can produce thrust in the range 24 mN to 230 mN with fine control at specific impulse (ISP) up to 4000 s. Setpoints in the range 75 mN to 145 mN have been qualified for BepiColombo and extensive testing has been carried out in the range 24 mN to 165 mN. Stated performance is indicative and can be optimised according to mission requirements to trade-off between thrust, ISP and lifetime.
The T6 Mk3 is a readily available product at TRL9. The T6 Mk4 is under qualification (TRL6) and benefits from improved mechanical robustness.
electric propulsion system
T7 Gridded Ion Thruster
The T7 thruster is a ring-cusp DC discharge, gridded ion thruster, and its development builds upon the heritage of the current T5 and T6 Kaufman type ion thrusters developed by QinetiQ. It is a larger thruster than its predecessors with an open grid area of 30 cm.
The T7 ring-cusp thruster development is being conducted in response to the market need for high-power gridded ion engines with improved capability in terms of lifetime and power to thrust ratio, whilst also addressing the need to produce a reliable and commercially competitive recurring product. The T7 thruster is currently targeting a thrust level of up to 250 mN and a specific impulse of up to 4000 s.
E-X-Drive®
As part of an electric tracked vehicle propulsion system, E-X-Drive® offers a lighter, more compact and efficient solution compared with conventional mechanical transmission systems.
E-X-Drive® combines electrical and mechanical components in a novel configuration that is efficiently packaged, incorporates mechanical regenerative transfer of steering power, range-shift mechanisms, and permanent magnet motor technology. E-X-Drive® is a demonstrated and low risk solution, with low stress levels in the motors, gears, shafts and bearing components.
Using E-X-Drive® as part of an electric propulsion system offers the opportunity for innovative tracked vehicle configurations founded on a fundamental shift in platform design trade space options. Not only is an E-X-Drive®-based transmission package smaller and lighter than comparable conventional transmissions it also lends itself to novel vehicle layouts to improve survivability, agility, and mission success.
Key performance advantages
Increased automotive performance and mobility
Full torque from standstill
High burst acceleration with Improved fuel efficiency
Engine downsizing and speed optimisation
Silent launch, with ‘on the move’ engine start
Energy storage to allow load-levelling, regenerative braking, and silent watch capability
Flexibility in powertrain layout – whether a decentralised system or a consolidated power pack
Hub Drive
Building on our technical expertise across highly integrated electromechanical transmissions, our new electric hub drive is intended to revolutionise the mobility and performance of wheeled military vehicles. As part of an electric propulsion system, in-wheel hub drives replace the main transmission and ‘drop-boxes’, differentials, and drive shafts with compact and extremely high-powered electric motors contained completely within the wheel rim. As part of a series hybrid-electric powertrain, this approach opens up dramatic new design possibilities that increase performance and improve safety and survivability of military vehicles.
QinetiQ offer a family of Hub Drive Units (HDU) providing a compact in-wheel solution that fits within a standard 20” tyre rim delivering more power, torque, and mobility compared with conventional mechanical transmission systems. Our Hub Drive is uniquely packaged containing a permanent magnet motor, 3-stage gearbox, integrated brake, with water based cooling.
The Hub Drive is offered with an accompanying umbilical system and Wheel Station Controller (WSC). Each hub drive is controlled by an individual WSC containing the power inverter, controller, and pneumatics for the gear shift. These are delivered through the custom built armoured umbilical system.
The hub drive system delivers two critical areas of benefits:
Mobility
Provides significant design flexibility for enhanced vehicle chassis, suspension and steering systems
High torque from a standstill for excellent acceleration and tractive capability
Reduced rotating driveline mass and low centre of gravity
Individual wheel station control for superior traction and yaw control, and emergency neutral-axis pivot turns
Improved velocity control and downhill decent through regenerative braking
Survivability
Removal of mechanical driveline components leaves a clean floor space and freedom for a purpose designed armour system
Ability to keep driving with the loss of one or more hubs
A liquid cooling circuit ensures control of hub temperature; external thermal shields blend the hub signature with that of the vehicle tyres
Silent driving and stealth operation achieved in pure electric mode utilising battery power
Understand the Hybrid Electric Powertrain system integration
QinetiQ offer customers a complete understanding of the impact integrating a Hybrid Electric Powertrain (HEP) system has on their vehicle including performance and cost through the use of our validated HYSIM® model.
HYSIM® – Capability Overview
QinetiQ offers simulation capabilities in the form of a validated computer model known as ‘HYSIM®’. At its core HYSIM® is a powertrain simulation tool used to assess various technology and configuration options for both conventional and hybrid electric drive systems in the context of wheeled and tracked vehicles. It is ideal for performing iterative concept studies (at a systems level) to quantify the benefits of transitioning to a hybrid electric system (from a conventional one). The model takes into account the major longitudinal forces that affect vehicle propulsion (i.e. aerodynamic drag, rolling resistance and gradient forces), and hence the influence on fuel consumption and acceleration.
HYSIM is capable of predicting vehicle performance and fuel consumption for various powertrain topologies including conventional systems, series HEVs (Hybrid Electric Vehicles), and parallel HEVs. It consists of a powertrain model built in SIMULINK that is linked to an MS-Access database of input, output and sub-model data. The primary components in the model comprise the ‘duty cycle’ definition, engine, generator, battery, transmission, and electric motor.
Key benefits are:
Military applications
HYSIM® is suitable for predicting the response of both military tracked and wheeled vehicles equipped with hybrid drive technology over various terrain and ground composition (excluding sand).
Proof of concept
HYSIM® will demonstrate the feasibility of a hybrid architecture during the early stages of development to deliver a more informed design.
Simple user interface
HYSIM® is designed to be easy to use allowing the user to operate the program via an MS-Access user interface without having to possess any prior knowledge of SIMULINK.
Batch testing
HYSIM® permits the rapid iteration of multiple test cases for situations where the user is required to make direct comparison between a set of options in terms of technology, component sizing or power management strategies.
Integration cost and planning
QinetiQ also provide the service of ‘True Planning’ to customers. This provides a clear insight into the cost of integrating a Hybrid Electric Powertrain to their vehicle, the required work-packages and schedule associated. This can be broken down into the prototype phase, production phase, and through life costing.
The cost analysis for the implementation, development, and through life is conducted through familiarity of market costs and a thorough market analysis to inform the price.
Additionally, a timeline is produced by breaking the project into work-packages illustrating what is required to achieve the final solution.
Q-Shift
Q-Shift has developed a high performance low cost gear change technology. It uses simple dog clutch components to pass the driving torque directly from one gear to the next without passing through a neutral state. Its sequential shift event is controlled mechanically via a simple barrel arrangement. Additional patents in the portfolio take this concept further, including a version which seamlessly multiplies the number of ratios.
For further details please download our concept sheet.
Key benefits
Rapid seamless up-shifting under full load and seamless down-shifting under engine braking.
High efficiency, no de-clutching or loss of torque during shifts.
Reduced part count and complexity compared to a manual synchromesh transmission.
Smaller, lighter and significantly cheaper than Automatics and Dual Clutch Transmissions.
Scalable from 2-15 ratios for light or heavy duty use.
Partnering Opportunity
Licensing of the Q-Shift intellectual property
Patent acquisition
Robotics & Autonomous Systems
Medium-Sized Tactical Robot
For over 15 years, TALON robots have been used worldwide for explosive ordnance disposal, chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, explosive reconnaissance, sensing, defense, security and rescue missions. These rugged and reliable robots have earned a reputation for durability, flexibility and performance in keeping military, first responders and civilians out of harm’s way.
TALONs have been used worldwide, from Ground Zero after the 2001 World Trade Center attack, to IRAQ and Afghanistan, searching for the Boston Marathon bombing suspect and assisting with security during major sporting events. Now on its fifth generation, TALON 5 is the first Interoperability Profile (IOP) fielded robotic system that has successfully gone through Army Test and Evaluation Command testing.
For more information visit https://qinetiq-na.com/products/unmanned-systems/talon/
Proven Leadership in Robotics
TALON robots have been in continuous, active service since 2000 when they were used in Bosnia for moving and disposing of live explosives. They were the first military robot to be used in active combat in Afghanistan and in Iraq. Now on it’s fifth generation, TALON 5 is the first Interoperability Profile (IOP) fielded robotic system that has successfully gone through Army Test and Evaluation Command testing.
Superb Mobility
TALON 5’s high performance drive motor option supports speeds up to six miles per hour, with enough torque to climb a 45° staircase. This rugged robot has proven to be operational in the most challenging environments and adverse weather conditions.
Features
IOP and SAE JAUS AS4 compliant
Easy to maintain and repair
Highly mobile
Rugged and reliable
Configurable for combat engineers, EOD, CBRN
Heavy-lift, multiple degree-of-freedom manipulator arm
Flexible controller options
User-defined graphical interface and programmable manipulator presets
Autonomy and mapping
Streaming high-definition video
Powerful, secure digital encrypted communications
Benefits
Keeps the Military, law enforcement and first responders away from danger
Provides real-time information and situational awareness to enhance security and support critical and often dangerous missions
Protects against CBRN, EOD, IED missions
Reduces costs of support logistics
Saves lives
Small unmanned ground robots
Our family of Dragon Runner robots provide world class support to military forces and first responders. These easily transportable systems have supports dangerous missions in some of the most hazardous conditions and terrains found on earth.
All Dragon Runners can be hand carried or transported inside a rucksack, and both can be remotely operated from many hundreds of meters away, providing protection and safety to their operators. Dragon Runners are available in two sizes.
For more information visit https://qinetiq-na.com/products/unmanned-systems/dragon-runner/
Modular Advanced Armed Robotic System
Powerful, modular and combat-ready, the Modular Advanced Armed Robotic System (MAARS®) is an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) designed specifically for reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (RSTA) missions to increase the security of personnel manning forward locations. MAARS keeps Soldiers at a safe distance from enemy fire while effectively executing security missions such as ambushes, hostage rescue, forced entry, booby-trapped areas, detainee riots, site security and IED. Remote placement of RSTA sensors into critical locations can be made up to several kilometers away, signaling threats and enabling an immediate response if required.
Equipped with multiple safety features, MAARS is operational only when receiving coded instructions from its operator. MAARS offers multiple options for the escalation of force when required by the Rules of Engagement (ROE)—from non-lethal lasers dazzlers and audio deterrents, to less-than-lethal grenades, to lethal fires from a grenade launcher or machine gun.
Squad-Packable Utility Robot
SPUR revolutionizes robotic capability for dismounted forces with its rapid deployment from its stowed state, tactical mobility and radio range, high-performance manipulator arm and QNA’s proven UC-LITE universal controller.
Designed to be back-packable, SPUR is equipped with advanced sensors and mission modules for dismounted forces to enhance mission capabilities. SPUR is transported by a single MOLLE II Assault Pack with a controller, pan-tilt-zoom camera and manipulator arm. It is deployed from the assault pack, without tools in less than a minute, enabling a quick reaction to be tasked with a mission.
Like a bantamweight fighter, SPUR provides exceptional strength, mobility and endurance. SPUR can easily navigate through rocks, water, sand and other rough terrain. Weighing less than 28 pounds, SPUR can nimbly climb stairs and surmount obstacles, yet is sized to operate effectively in culverts and sewer pipes that wider robots cannot penetrate.
Secure Communications & Navigation
Global Navigation Satellite System receiver
Building upon the success of the current QinetiQ Q20 GPS receiver product, QinetiQ is in the process of developing its next generation family of secured GNSS receivers. The first of these, Q40, is a multi-constellation, multi-frequency open-service Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver. Q40 provides high-integrity satellite navigation solutions for users for whom positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) is mission critical. Through new, advanced digital signal and navigation processing they will provide market leading mitigation against a wide range of interference, jamming, spoofing and cyber threats.
Intended for use in a wide range of applications including:
Timing applications
Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS), Internet-of-Things (IoT)
Personal navigation
Position location / reporting
Public Safety
Vehicles (land, rail, maritime, air)
Manned / Autonomous systems
Machine control
Test and Evaluation / Range instrumentation
High dynamic platforms, munitions and weapons
Key benefits
Multi-GNSS Constellation
GPS and Galileo satellite constellations ensuring a high level of availability, redundancy and accuracy. Support for other GNSS constellations including GLONASS, Beidou, SBAS and regional overlay support (including QZSS and NAVIC). Constellation inclusion/exclusion based on real-time signal assessment.
Secured, resilient navigation using open services
Simplified integration and use in the field with reduced cost of ownership, no key management.
High Performance, Low Power, Reliable Design
New advanced RF and digital ASICs giving class leading performance at low size, weight and power.
Resilient PNT
Incorporates multiple advanced techniques to provide mitigation of interference/jamming, spoofing, meaconing and RF cyber-attacks. Designed to be used with Controlled Radiation Pattern Antennas (CRPAs) for additional resilience.
Fast Time to First Fix
Unprecedented number of simultaneous time/frequency search windows, enabling very fast Time to First Fix in challenging scenarios including those associated with high dynamics.
Support for Use in Challenging Environments
Designed to support signal acquisition and tracking in challenging environments including those associated with high dynamics.
Product Capability Roadmap for Integrators
Common architecture and software offering incremental capability enhancements. Simplified integration with multiple interface protocols to aid use in a wide range of applications.
Support for integrated navigation (loose, tight, ultra-tight coupling)
Low power on-board sensors providing orientation, heading and baro-height. Interfaces to support integration with external sensors including Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs).
Low Size Weight and Power (Low SWAP)
Small, light and low power.
ITAR-free, exportable
Sensing, Processing & Data Fusion
