NEWS. SEA in to the future. Fleet communication systems. Next generation sonar systems. Future soldier vision development

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1 NEWS #42 SEA in to the future Fleet communication systems Next generation sonar systems Future soldier vision development Eco-friendly transport solutions

2 Hello... Welcome to the latest issue of SEA News, highlighting our latest successes and milestones. Recent months have been extremely busy for us, highlighted by developments in our capabilities and exciting collaborations that extend our services and global breadth. We recently announced our new collaboration with Australian defence company, Daronmont Technologies, who we are delighted to partner with as part of our solution to address the Royal Australian Navy requirements outlined in the Future Submarine (SEA 1000) and Hunter Class Frigate (SEA 5000) programmes. By bringing together our combined experience and ability to deliver leading-edge technology, we are establishing our role to support these once-in-a-generation naval shipbuilding programmes. Closer to home, we recently introduced the latest upgrade to the Naval Systems Integration Process Service (NSIPS) database Griffin, which will simplify and speed up the process for naval vessel updates. Ultimately delivering time and cost efficiencies for the MoD, NSIPS will transform the process for upgrading vessels. In recognition of SEA s expertise in the research and development of integrated solutions, we are hugely proud to announce SEA will lead the physical and technical software integration of soldier personal area networks with the British Army s current body armour and load carrying systems, on behalf of the MoD. Working alongside Blacktree Technology Limited, BAE Technology, Black Diamond Advanced Technology and Ultra Electronics, we are demonstrating how armed services professionals may benefit from a seamless communication experience is set to become another successful year for us as we expect to see many of our programmes come to fruition and carve their own path for new opportunities and call for our innovative solutions. We would like to thank our teams and partners on their continued support and achievements. Steve Hill Managing Director Neal Parmar Graduate successes The SEA Graduate Scheme is going from strength to strength, and this latest intake includes talented individuals excited to embark on successful engineering careers. Pratik Joshi The scheme is a two-year rotational programme, which allows each graduate to experience a variety of projects across a diverse range of disciplines. In their second year, they are placed within a specific division most suited to their skillset. This year we are delighted to welcome Systems Engineering graduate Pratik Joshi, and Electrical Engineering graduate Neal Parmar. Neal said: I immediately felt very welcome and was shown around the various projects SEA is working on. I couldn t have asked for a better induction to the company. Current graduates Beth Simpson and Jon Craig have now completed their first round of rotation which saw them involved in high-level project work. Beth, an Applied Mathematics graduate, said: I have developed my engineering and software skills in order to solve exciting problems, and had access to fantastic training opportunities which have further expanded my skillset. The majority of graduates go on to hold a permanent position at SEA. Of those completing the scheme this year, Sam Kent has been employed permanently as a Mechanical Engineer at our Barnstaple site, Fergus Cowie has taken up a role as a Data Scientist at our Beckington office and Aly Stroud has recently been offered the role of Junior Java Developer. For more information, contact: graduates@sea.co.uk

3 Around the World with SEA We have an extensive exhibition and conference schedule planned for 2019 allowing us to showcase our capabilities and range of products to customers across the globe. Where ever you are in the world we look forward to meeting with you at the following events where our team will be on hand to discuss your future plans and requirements. Keep in touch: us prior to the event Find out more Follow us on social media for all our latest news and Meet us in 2019 Subsea Expo UDS LIMA Parkex LAAD UDT CANSEC Future Surface Fleet Offshore Europe DSEI Defsec Pacific Aberdeen 5-7 February Southampton 5-7 March Langkawi March Coventry 2-4 April Brazil 2-5 April Stockholm May Ottawa May Portsmouth 4-6 June Aberdeen 3-6 September London September Nova Scotia 1-3 October Sydney 8-10 October

4 SEA to deliver the future of fleet communications Peter Hodgkinson, Business Development Director at SEA says the company is set to play a pivotal role as demand grows for open submarine communications systems. The UK Royal Navy took a positive step forward ten years ago when it commissioned the design and test of an open architecture submarine communication system. This was a watershed moment, paving the way for major developments in subsea communications. An open design allows the Royal Navy to benefit from all of the advantages of an open system such as cost-effective maintenance and system upgrades while ensuring resilience and security are maximised in the demanding maritime defence environment. Today, these systems are established and in service on the Trafalgar and Astute class submarines, and following their success, the Royal Navy is hoping to adopt the open design as the chosen communications system across its fleet. Looking to the future, the demands on open communications systems are expected to increase exponentially as Network Centric Warfare grows and autonomous systems are introduced. But this is where these systems really demonstrate their true value in making time and cost efficiencies, as they enable an increase in capacity and individual platforms to be quickly modified to accommodate new technologies and capabilities for specific missions. Communication requirements will increase over the next decade along with the need to reduce manpower and to make systems as efficient as possible. Beyond this, we expect the next generation of these systems to extend the range of external submarine communications, enable communications from a greater depth and allow for user-driven communications through an automated system. The next generation of these systems will see communications move on to a common core computing environment. Extending the submarine s wireless network allows wireless message management that will reduce workload and improve decision making, by allowing communication at any time, in any location via personal devices. This also supports the creation of a wireless combat system with open access to Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications. We now have the technology and the security systems to move communication systems into a new era. By working with our partners, we have the technologies for Generation 5 (5G) communications systems that we are ready to deliver. Providing an enhanced user experience, management and operations functions as well as system performance, 5G communications will improve reliability and system speed. We are proud of the fact that SEA will be at the forefront of this new age of subsea communication.

5 The next generation of KraitArray Four years after it's launch, Alex Key, Product Manager at SEA reveals the enhanced KraitArray. Building on the strengths of the original version, improvements include the ability to link modules together, increasing the length of the array to 150m, increasing the number of hydrophones to 128, improve hydrophone performance, increasing the strength to support tow speeds of 30 knots and adding smart power management. In delivering the latest generation of KraitArray, SEA has addressed a number of challenges. Distributed Digitisation To increase the number of hydrophones, the digitisation system needed to be miniaturised to fit within the 16mm hose. This had to be done while improving the electrical noise floor of the system to remain below Deep-Sea State 0 across the entire frequency range of the array and minimising the power consumption of the array. New Hydrophone & Pre-Amplifier To improve the noise floor of the KraitArray hydrophone and add built-in test functionality, SEA has invested in a new hydrophone design. This incorporates SEA s specialisation to achieve an exceptionally small, low power, low noise pre-amplifier. Novel Strain Member & Interconnections A new approach to strength requirements was needed to allow the KraitArray to be towed at high speeds while staying within the 16mm form factor. Extensive testing of novel materials and manufacturing techniques yielded a mechanical structure that far exceeds the requirements for high speed towing of a 150m array. SEA has drawn on decades of experience in the world of naval and subsea engineering in developing the next generation of KraitArray. This process has been a fantastic opportunity for developing talented apprentices and graduates who will become the future engineers in our industry. Trials underway of enhanced KraitArray ASW sonar SEA s Krait Defence Anti-Submarine Warfare system is taking a leap forward in capability with the final trials of the extended 150m ultra-thin towed array. The trial is set to increase the worldwide awareness and ongoing development of KraitArray for ASW. The new evolution of KraitArray uses multi-module assembly philosophy and is established in-service for use with ASV, AUV and small surface vessels. This 150m KraitArray extends the range and increases the bearing accuracy enabling a full ASW capability on small ships and OPVs. The KraitArray now delivers similar performance to much larger and costlier towed arrays but is more efficient to launch and recover, minimising the footprint on the host vessel and handling requirements. The modular construction of the KraitArray offers flexibility, resilience and is easily repaired or replaced on board, improving cost effectiveness, while offering extended life.

6 Torpedo Launcher Systems Nick Poplawski, Portfolio Manager at SEA takes a closer look at what makes our Torpedo Launcher Systems a global success. We re very proud of the fact that SEA s Torpedo Launcher Systems (TLS) are now installed on more than twenty surface ships across five navies a clear demonstration that the system is valued and in global demand. The system s success is ultimately determined by three key characteristics: flexibility, availability and reliability underpinned by cuttingedge innovation and technology. Initially based on the UK Royal Navy system that SEA designed and developed, and that continue to support throughout its in-service life, the TLS s electronics suite was updated to incorporate state-of-the-art launcher control and torpedo selection panels. The system can be controlled from the combat management system, a torpedo selection panel in the combat information centre or locally by a launcher control panels, due to its ethernetbased structure. Offering near limitless options, the system is weapon-agnostic and can launch a variety of NATO standard Light Weight Torpedoes (LWT), including the Sting Ray, Blue Shark, MU90, A244S, MK 44/46 and MK 54 weapons. An inherently flexible system which features modern electronics and rugged tube assemblies, the Torpedo Launcher System offers a future-proof solution. In addition, SEA s latest generation of TLSs use modern, commercially available electronic components, durable materials such as GRP tubes and flexible architecture. This means that upgrading and replacing unused or outdated components is easier. The use of GRP tubes also allows the system to be deck-mounted and exposed to the elements, providing a truly flexible solution. Light-weight GRP tubes have been used by the UK Royal Navy for many years due to their low maintenance costs and reduced radar cross-section making them a much more effective material when compared to steel tubes. Reliability is vital to our clients and our TLS delivers - with its track record demonstrating a performance at more than 99%. Its use by by the UK Royal Navy, one of the world s most forward-thinking armed services, is a major endorsement of its capabilities, and is one of the main factors behind its desirability. Flexible, weapon-agnostic solutions are increasingly in demand from navies across the world, and with a performance record that can be trusted, it s not a surprise for us at SEA that our TLS is the solution of choice. We are currently bidding for a number of major global contracts, hoping to further expand our reach and work with nations to develop new in-country expertise in this highly specialist area.

7 High hopes for the future SEA, and JSK Naval Support Inc., a trusted provider for the Canadian Government, have entered into a joint venture to support the development of Canadian expertise in Torpedo Launcher Systems (TLS) as part of its bid for the forthcoming Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC) programme. The bid specifically focuses on the manufacture of surface combatants to replace Canada s Iroquois-class destroyers and Halifax-class frigates. The TLS system is compatible with all lightweight NATO standard-sized torpedoes, while the electronics suite provides calculation of a fire control solution predicting target position from the sonar and ship s data. SEA Managing Director Steve Hill said: Our joint venture with JSK is a great example of supporting in-country manufacturing expertise. We re very proud to be able to work with trusted experts in the countries in which we operate in order to develop world-class naval solutions and provide a legacy in terms boosting skills and jobs. New partnership to pursue Australian submarine and naval shipbuilding programmes SEA has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with wholly Australian-owned defence company, Daronmont Technologies, a local specialist in the design, engineering, integration and support of complex high technology electronics and software-intensive systems. Conclusion of the MoU provides a basis for the two companies to bring to Australia some of the world's most advanced combat and communications systems to specifically address Royal Australian Navy requirements outlined in the Future Submarine (SEA 1000) and Hunter Class Frigate (SEA 5000) programmes. Initial activities will see the establishment of a specialist cell at Daronmont s facility in Adelaide next year that will be populated by innovative SEA Training & Simulation capabilities. Drawing upon its established UK and international business activities, SEA is well placed to bring to Australia its flexible, open-architecture communication system and vendor-independent weapons launcher systems to meet Australia s Future Submarine and Frigate requirements. Through the combination of their respective technology, IP and expertise, the SEA-Daronmont partnership will look to generating sustainable Australian Industrial Capability that is based on uniquely indigenous solutions, robust supply chains and whole of life-cycle support solutions. On behalf of the South Australian Government, Defence SA Chief Executive Richard Price offered his Congratulations to South Australia s Daronmont Technologies and the UK s SEA on their strategic partnership to work collaboratively on major Australian naval shipbuilding projects. South Australia is home to a strong and capable defence industry, and it s fantastic to see our innovative local companies forging international partnerships to maximise business opportunities and play a critical role these once-in-a-generation naval shipbuilding programmes.

8 Royal Norwegian Navy use SEA s portable virtual reality trainer The Royal Norwegian Navy (RNN) is the first to use SEA s upgraded portable DECKsim Virtual Reality (VR) Trainer. Featuring accurate 3D models of sea and land-based airfields, and oil platforms, the DECKsim flight simulator helps Navy professionals develop their aircraft handling skills. The system can be easily configured for specific airframes, platforms and scenarios. The RNN has used SEA s fully-integrated Flight Deck Officer (FDO) simulator DECKsim at its naval training base in Bergen since The updated system will enable the RNN to offer training onboard any ship or at any land-based facility. Discussing the updated system, Ian Cox, SEA s Head of Training Simulation, explained: We have harnessed the latest developments in VR technology and embodied them within the modular DECKsim system. The result is a truly portable solution which efficiently addresses FDO currency training and testing, which is a challenge for all naval organisations." To date, the use of DECKsim has reduced FDO-related live aircraft flying hours by approximately half. Simulation of both routine and emergency operating conditions equips armed forces with essential experience for scenarios where live aircraft training cannot be safely roleplayed. SEA and partners showcase the future of modelling and simulation to the MOD SEA has led an industry-wide delivery team in Architectures, Interoperability and Management of Simulations (AIMS) and presented findings on the future of modelling and simulation to the UK MoD. The AIMS team, comprising SEA, BAE Systems, QinetiQ and Thales provided a practical demonstration of Modelling and Simulation as a Service (MSaaS) to key MoD stakeholders based on its four years of research. Showcasing how MSaaS can support future training and joint-force exercises, the team addressed key elements of the concept including a registry and repository of simulation assets, simulation composition tools and use of cloud computing technologies. The AIMS delivery team was supported by the Dstl Synthetic Environment Tower Community of Practice. Jon Lloyd, Dstl Technical Partner for AIMS contract, commented: As Defence IT infrastructure is modernised in line with the Defence Information strategy, MSaaS helps to ensure Modelling and Simulation capabilities are ready to exploit the benefits of technologies such as Cloud-based hardware solutions. While AIMS has developed the UK concept for MSaaS, it has also contributed to the parallel NATO Modelling and Simulation Group activity to provide a consistent approach to MSaaS across the partner nations.

9 Leading the way for future soldiers SEA has been contracted by a UK government agency to lead a team in the area of Soldier System Research and Development. Under the contract, SEA will lead a team of specialist companies in developing a weapon system combining novel and emerging small arms technologies to produce an integrated system that delivers greater efficacy for the individual soldier on the battlefield. Andy Thomis, Chief Executive of Cohort, said: This contract recognises our position at the forefront of Soldier System Research and Development and our capability as a prime contractor. By combining emerging technologies within a single weapon system, our solution ensures that soldiers have the very best capabilities at their disposal.

10 SEA s Legacy Locker prevents costly delays for Chrysaor In the space of just 36 hours, SEA provided remanufactured and recertified electrical jumper assemblies to North Sea oil and gas independent, Chrysaor, through its Legacy Locker service. Securing a circular economy The term circular economy is increasingly finding its way into the consciousness of individuals, businesses and governments, as sustainability becomes a top priority for all. In the oil and gas industry in particular, sustainability is largely only thought of in terms of recycling, and not reuse which is a wasted opportunity. Reuse is a core principle of the notion of the circular economy, and in the longer term will present a multitude of benefits in the oil and gas industry. Standardisation and commoditisation will permit the reuse of larger and higher value equipment, resulting in reduced field development costs without compromising safety. Reuse is an important aspect of Legacy Locker; the range of services SEA provides to oil companies to support legacy operational subsea assets. Due to long lead times for new parts and components quickly becoming outdated, Legacy Locker offers the refurbishment and recertification of hardware for the subsea production controls market. Helping companies extract the maximum value from their assets, through refurbishing and recertifying products so that they can be reused - in most cases due to system risks or failures, Legacy Locker helps prevent useful and reusable materials ending up in scrapyards. By supporting a more circular economy, the industry can get the most from its existing components and help reduce future field development costs. Providing used and refurbished equipment for the oil and gas industry, SEA s Legacy Locker service is underpinned by the reuse principle of the circular economy. Matt Blair, Subsea Engineering Director at SEA, said: By using spare parts stored within Legacy Locker s inventory, we were able to engineer and recertify the assemblies with the correct connectors to provide Chrysaor with the equipment that it needed. This removed what would have been a long wait to remanufacture and supply the jumper assemblies and meant that an existing piece of equipment could be reused. After the project was completed, Mike Bavidge, Subsea Controls System Engineer at Chrysaor, commented: SEA s Legacy Locker was able to provide support for this project very quickly. The responsiveness of the Legacy Locker team mitigated pressure and stress from the situation so that the equipment and vessel could head offshore as planned.

11 ROADflow continues to enhance school safety Road safety across England has been improved following the installation of 20 SEA traffic camera detection systems outside schools in Bedford and on bus lanes in Newcastle. New commissions for Derby and Plymouth will also see the ROADflow technology installed to address bus stop infringements. Driving an eco-friendly future SEA has launched an eco-friendly version of its mobile traffic enforcement system and upgraded the underlying technology to boost camera surveillance capability. The zero emissions-platform uses a Citroën C-Zero vehicle to house the latest version of SEA s ROADflow system, designed for traffic enforcement in problems areas including bus lanes, schools, yellow box junctions and restricted parking areas. The upgraded ROADflow technology trebles camera surveillance capability - utilising tabletbased hardware and improving the layout of the vehicle. The system also offers improved 4G communication links for secure data transfer. Already used by 51 local authorities across England to monitor road traffic offences ranging from yellow box infringements to unauthorised manoeuvres, ROADflow technology supports vital traffic enforcement and is an effective deterrent for offences. Steve Hill, SEA Managing Director, commented: Research from insurance companies suggests that over 1,000 children a month are involved in collisions within 500 metres of school gates. ROADflow technology is proving a valuable resource in improving road safety near schools, for example providing a deterrent to vehicles dropping off or picking up passengers in non-designated areas or bus stops outside school gates. SEA believes it is the first supplier in the UK to offer a mobile system with enhanced tablet hardware. There are currently 52 active ROADflow mobile enforcement systems operating throughout the UK. Jon Hargroves, SEA Systems and Technical Director, said: Reducing carbon emissions in urban areas is high on every local authority s agenda; we believe that using eco-friendly vehicles for detecting traffic infringements is an essential part of the future.

12 SEA Crew set sail for Reginald Fessenden Challenge SEA participated in the Reginald Fessenden Challenge 2018, an annual charity sailing event in support of the Not Forgotten Association. We believe in supporting and engaging with local charitable organisations and our colleagues from across the business work together to raise funds for these worthwhile causes. The charity is military-focused, supporting serving or former individuals who are wounded, injured or sick and any veterans with a disability, illness or infirmity. The challenge took place in the Solent, in perfect weather conditions and great fun was had by the mixed crews of service and defence industry personnel. Overall, the event raised a staggering 20,000 for this long-established and hardworking service charity and although SEA s team wasn t victorious they were incredibly proud to have been part of the event. Systems Engineering & Assessment Ltd Beckington Castle, 17 Castle Corner, Beckington, Frome, Somerset BA11 6TA United Kingdom Telephone: info@sea.co.uk A Cohort plc