QinetiQ introduces ViewFinder combat management system
The software, successfully trialled on the Royal Navy’s Duke Class Type 23 Frigates, features 3D environment representation and enables the identification of multiple hostile and benign craft. It continually monitors and identifies friendly, neutral and hostile tracks and highlights abnormal activity as soon as it develops, reducing the burden on the operator and maximising the available reaction time.
David Beatty, QinetiQ’s Chief Engineer for Maritime Investment and Technology, said: “ViewFinder’s strength lies in its ability to seamlessly integrate sensors and hardware from multiple manufacturers and combine it into single, detailed picture of the ship’s surroundings. This, combined with data inputted by the operator, offers unrivalled situational awareness by speeding up assessment, reducing operator workload and minimising potential for user error.
“QinetiQ is ideally placed to deliver this system thanks to its many years of experience as a trusted advisor to the Royal Navy. We do not manufacture hardware, so can be relied upon to provide impartial advice on integrating hardware from multiple suppliers. We are excited by this opportunity to pass on our naval capabilities and expertise to the international defence market.”
ViewFinder is set to further strengthen QinetiQ’s Overseas Mission Systems package, which offers analysis, procurement advice and guidance, system design, installation, testing and evaluation, and diagnostic remediation.