64 · MT 4/2022 Industrial Focus Safran was able to deploy this architecture on three very different types of platforms included in the FURIOUS system. The optional tranche now announced aims to optimise this architecture, and make the autonomous functions developed more robust (tracking passage points, replaying trajectories, monitoring the leader, autonomous target homing, etc.) within more complex – even unstable – environments. Safran Electronics & Defense builds on its skills and expertise to ensure the autonomy of both land platforms (robotics) and airborne platforms (drones): automated planning and control, navigation and geolocation, 3D environment perception based on semantic segmentation, artificial intelligence-based processing and critical embedded software. The company has proven its credibility through real-world projects such as FURIOUS in France, and its European counterpart, iMugs, financed by the European Defence Fund. Critical building blocks for future programmes could be developed in the short term, based on the operational advantages of autonomous functions in a number of scenarios, the applicability of a judicious incremental approach and a clear convergence towards adaptable modular solutions. From this perspective, the launch of the planned Vulcain robotics unit by the French army, designed to formalise the army’s robotics needs by 2030, is a clear sign for the players involved of the viability of this approach. Safran has over 70 years of expertise in all underlying technologies. HRG technology has proven its capabilities for demanding civil and military applications in all environments: land, air, sea and space. Indra Acquires Simumak Simumak’s tactical vehicle simulation solutions lie at the heart of the company’s contribution to Indra’s continued growth in the simulation and training business. (Photo: Indra) Indra has boosted its capabilities in the simulation and training business by acquiring Simumak, a specialist developer that has delivered over 5,000 simulators to 20+ countries, the company announced on 5 July. The acquisition strengthens Indra’s leadership in simulation, with new, complementary solutions and capabilities that advance its growth strategy in international markets, and contribute to the consolidation of the sector in Spain. Indra will also be able to develop, in a much more agile manner, the tactical training systems that its civilian and military customers are increasingly demanding. The simulation sector is undergoing a profound transformation with the emergence of new technologies linked to artificial intelligence, virtual hook for a total of 96 as the contract unfolds. The Army’s stated requirement is for 504 vehicles, with which it intends to equip four battalions (approx. 168 vehicles) by 2030. The first LRIP vehicle is due to be delivered by the end of 2023 and the first MPF-equipped battalion could be stood up some time in 2025. “Our team worked tirelessly to deliver our prototypes in time to support the Army’s evaluation plan, and we incorporated soldier feedback into the final design […] The MPF vehicle has been purpose-built for the IBCTs to give them decisive lethality, mobility and survivability on current and future battlefields,” commented Gordon Stein, GDLS VP/GM for US Operations. Indra Combat Systems for German and Norwegian Type 212CD Boats Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has awarded a contract valued at over €70 million to Indra for combat systems for the German and Norwegian Type 212CD submarines under construction (two and four boats respectively). The Spanish company is to supply intelligent EW systems and low interception probability navigation radars. The advanced intelligent EW system is based on wideband interception and analysis of signals, the use of interferometry to determine the position of potential threats and digital reception technology to generate radar and communications intelligence. AI/ML techniques incorporate the capacity to adapt to future threats, and the system also has a combined antenna integrated into the mast to optimize platform use. The dual continuous-wave X-band radars feature high-precision detection pulse and low probability of intercept – a solid-sate digitised system with high-frequency agility and bandwidth, able to detect targets with low radar cross-section in the worst electromagnetic clutter conditions, resisting jamming attempts. The Indra suite of systems will be integrated with Kongsberg’s ORCCA combat system, playing a key role in providing situational awareness advantage. Safran Wins New Contract for FURIOUS Programme Safran Electronics & Defense has won an ‘optional tranche’ contract from the DGA for France’s FURIOUS (FUturs systèmes Robotiques Innovants en tant qu’OUtilS) programme, a science and technology program that aims to develop innovative robotic systems for mounted and dismounted warfighters. The announcement follows successful field trials of the FURIOUS robotic system, carried out by Safran in late 2021 at the French army’s urban combat training centre at Sissone – a key advance, culminating in the firm contract phase. During this phase, participants focused on the modular architecture concept (hardware and software), designed to ensure the autonomous operation of any ground crewed or unmanned platform. The FURIOUS robot. (Photo: Safran/R Brives)
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