Issue 9: Defence Reporter spring 2014

Defence Reporter
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Defence Science and Technology
Spring 2014
Produced by Dstl
Sample citation
The components for a typical citation, as they
appear in Defence Reporter, are illustrated
below:
Collection system identifier
Title
R0001C6D0
Airframe Structural Integrity Research and
Technology Strategy - Phase 2
Dstl Porton Down (GB) (2009)
Within this report, Phase 2 of the task raised
by CASD-ASI to develop a Structural Integrity
Research and Technology Strategy is described.
Additionally, development of fatigue data
management systems to support several inservice aircraft fleets and expansion of low-cost
Operational Loads Measurement capability
development tasks are detailed.
Publisher, year of publication
Abstract
© Crown Copyright Dstl, 2014
Defence Reports
This section provides details of scientific and
technical reports added to the MOD’s ATHENA
Collection in the previous period.
How to request reports
Reports from MOD’s ATHENA Collection can be
requested from Knowledge and Information Services
Tel: 01980 613971
Email: [email protected]
Note: The report citations listed in this publication have been
generated using an automated document scanning process.
As a result, some references may contain formatting and/or
punctuation irregularities.
R0002FFCE
A Replication Study Of Body Mass
Index, Changes in Body Mass, Lifestyle
and Self Reported Health in the Royal
Navy 2007-2012
Environmental Medicine and Sciences, Gosport (GB)
(2013)
As part of the Royal Navy’s Stress Survey, in 2012
the “Work and Wellbeing Questionnaire’ was sent
to all personnel who responded in 2007. A sub-set
of data on body, stature health and lifestyle was
analysed in an attempt to replicate similar analyses,
conducted in 2011. A number of similarities were
found between the original and replicated findings,
with RN males displaying higher levels of obesity
than RN females, and ratings higher levels of obesity
than officers. A higher proportion of obese females
had lost weight since 2007 to become overweight
than did males, while the majority of healthy weight
personnel remained a healthy weight five years later.
The replication yielded a similar model of health and
lifestyle effects on future health risk. Similar findings
regarding the development of health complaints
were found as in 2011; high body mass index (BMI)
and change in BMI over time were related to the
development of high blood pressure, musculoskeletal
complaints, psychological strain and lower general
health in 2012. No effects of prior exercise on the
development of these complaints were found.
R0002ED12
A Retrospective Analysis of Admiralty
Interview Board Data as a Predictor of
Performance at Initial Officer Training
Institute of Naval Medicine, Gosport (GB) (2013)
Performance data were collected from 468 naval
officer cadets in Initial Officer Training (IOT) and were
matched with the corresponding selection assessment
scores from the Admiralty Interview Board (AIB). It
was found that the multi-stage fitness assessment
at the AIB was the best predictor of behaviouralbased training assessments at IOT, significantly
predicting mean and holistic score on the Assessed
2
Basic Leadership Exercise in week 7, pass/fail on the
Maritime Leadership Exercise in week 26/27, and
mean score on the standard report form which marks
the cadet on various attributes at the end of IOT. In
addition, AIB candidates who achieved a score of
6 or more out of 10 on the fitness test were nearly
twice as likely to pass IOT overall as those who scored
less than 6. These findings suggest that fitness score
should be considered as a separate assessment at the
AIB, as it distinguishes between officer cadets who do
well at IOT and those who do less well. In addition,
recommendations were made regarding the final board
mark cut-off at the AIB, as all candidates scoring
above the current cut-off of 180 had similar pass rates
at IOT, suggesting that this cut-off could potentially be
lowered without adverse impact on IOT performance.
Overall, it was concluded that the AIB is selecting
candidates who are generally successful at IOT (85%
pass rate), but some changes to the competency-based
scoring system might further improve the process. This
report supports some of the findings and conclusions
of previous assessments of the naval officer selection
process.
R000300F7
A survey of crew exposure to noise in a
‘Terrier” Manoeuvre Support vehicle
Institute of Naval Medicine, Alverstoke (GB) (2013)
Noise measurements were made in a tracked “Terrier”
Manoeuvre Support Vehicle that is used for digging
and moving earth. Time histories of sound pressure
were acquired onto an Edirol audio recorder from two
locations (commander and driver) with the vehicle
being driven over road, gravel track and cross-country
terrain. Recordings were made with and without
a trailer and whilst the vehicle was earth moving.
Measurements were made approximately 15 cm
from the right ear of the crew. The data have been
assessed and interpreted in accord with the Control
of Noise at Work Regulations 2005. Average noise
levels ranged from 91 dB(A), during earth moving, to
110dB(A), during travel over gravel track. Noise levels
were generally similar at the driver’s location and at
the commander’s seat. Exposure periods required to
reach the ‘upper exposure action value’ of 85 dB(A)
varied from about 1 minute to about 1 hour depending
on the operation of the vehicle. The noise exposure
of the crew would be expected to exceed the ‘upper
exposure action value’ specified in the CNAWR.
Recommendations have been made including provision
of information and training on the forms of action
that personnel may take to reduce their exposure to
noise, a rigorous programme of maintenance for all
hearing protection devices used and appropriate health
surveillance for noise-exposed personnel.
R0002FD0D
A Survey of Noise Exposure of
Personnel Unloading Vehicles From a
Point Class Vessel
Institute of Naval Medicine, Alverstoke (GB) (2013)
Noise measurements were made during the unloading
of vehicles from the Point Class vessel Hartland
Point at the Sea Mounting Centre, Marchwood. Time
histories of sound pressure were acquired onto a sound
level meter at personnel locations on the deck whilst
vehicles were unloaded from the ship. Measurements
were also made during other operations including; a
JCB; within the cab of a Support Vehicle Recovery
(SVR); as deck personnel operated a nut runner; and
whilst crew collected bolts and chains. The data have
been assessed and interpreted in accord with the
Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005. Noise
levels (LAeq) ranged from 68 dB(A), obtained within
the cab of the SVR, to 99 dB(A), obtained during
the operation of a JCB (vehicle reversing). Exposure
periods required to reach the upper exposure action
value’ of 85 dB(A) varied from about 20 minutes
(JCB reversing/Challenger II vehicle running) to 24
hours (in the cab of the SVR). Recommendations have
been made including provision of information and
training on the forms of action that personnel may
take to reduce their exposure to noise, the provision of
suitable hearing protection should personnel wish to
wear it, a programme of maintenance for all hearing
protection devices used and appropriate health
surveillance for noise-exposed personnel.
R0002F3A1
AAMOST 146 Vulnerability/Lethality
staff exchange
Dstl, Fort Halstead (GB) (2012)
This document discusses the major efforts of two
exchanged staff operating at DSTL Fort Halstead and
DSTO Edinbugh respectively. The overall aims of both
exchanges as well as the key benefits obtained for
DSTL are detailed This collaboration was undertaken
within the scope of the AAMOST agreement and
was principally focussed on the development of V&L
modelling using the UWM-WTI toolset.
R0002F1A4
Advanced Cabin Baggage Screening in
Aviation Security
Dstl, Fort Halstead (GB) (2013)
This report describes analysis conducted in support
of the UK Department for Transport. This analysis
has investigated different process options for both
using Bulk Explosive Detection Systems as part of the
aviation security search comb and the screening of
laptops.
R0002FFD1
An Assessment of Crew Exposure to
Diesel Engine Exhaust Emissions in a
Viking All Terrain Vehicle
Institute of Naval Medicine, Gosport (GB) (2013)
The Institute of Naval Medicine was requested to
determine crew exposure to diesel exhaust fume in
the troop-carrying variant of the recently ‘regenerated’
twin-cab Viking vehicle. In 2012, the International
Agency for Research on Cancer designated diesel
exhaust fume as a human carcinogen. Exposure
to the constituents of diesel fume was found to be
below relevant occupational exposure limits in both
the front and rear cabs of the Viking, when the rear
cab roof hatch was closed. The Viking vehicle has
an amphibious capability and, when ‘swimming’ or
during operational surveillance tasks, a watchperson
is required to stand up through the rear cab’s roof
hatch. This position is directly behind the exhaust
located on the rear of the front cab. The watchperson’s
diesel fume exposure was high and measures are
recommended to reduce fume exposure. Nitrogen
monoxide and dioxide exposures were also found to
be significant inside the rear cab, when the roof hatch
was open.
R0002EAA7
An Investigation into the Effectiveness
of Simulation for Armoured Fighting
Vehicle (AFV) Driving Training
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
Evidence for the effectiveness of simulation for
Armoured Fighting Vehicle (AFV) driver training was
required to underpin future decisions regarding the
most appropriate and cost-effective way to deliver
AFV training in general, and Warrior driver training
in particular. A controlled experiment (trial) was
conducted using the Warrior AFV as a training
case study. The trial was conducted according to a
between groups experimental design. Two matched
groups of Infantry participants (n=43 started the
trial) underwent elements of the current Warrior
AFV driver training course. The experimental group
were trained via a specially designed experimental
simulator and the control group were trained using
a live Warrior AFV (traditional training method).
Following completion of the training, both groups
were assessed in the live vehicle. The assessment
included a range of manoeuvring and cross country
driving tasks. Performance was measured both
through objective data (vehicle instrumentation and
task observation) and independent assessor ratings.
Participants’ perceptions regarding the training/
simulator were also captured via questionnaires and
follow-up semi-structured interviews. Instructors’ views
on the simulator system and simulation for teaching
were captured during semi-structured interviews. The
simulator training group performed as well as the live
group during the assessment on all tasks. Furthermore,
the simulator group expressed higher levels of interest
in the use of simulation, compared to the live group,
and exposure to simulation enhanced expectations
regarding its use for basic driver training.
R0002F756
An investigation into the practicality of
RFID document tagging and tracking
Dstl Porton Down (GB) (2013)
This report details an investigation into the robustness
of RFID document tagging and tracking technology.
Three separate tests were conducted, and it was found
that the technology would bring demonstrable benefits
3
to DGIFC if it were to be adopted in the Pathfinder
building at RAF Wyton and would provide at least as
much performance as the current barcode registry
system.
R0002F61C
R0002FB87
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
This document has been compiled in response to
tasking under STECH/008 from Naval Command
Headquarters (NCHQ) for a Master Data and
Assumptions List (MDAL) to provide an agreed source
of data for establishing Whole Life Costs (WLC) and
making the Through Life Financial Provision for the
FRS project. It records the agreed data and planning
assumptions from each of the DLODs and other
contributors to the wider CSS programme. The FRS
is the afloat support platform operated by the RFA to
deliver Forward Repair Capability (FRO) to Entitled
Units under the Operational Maintenance And Repair
(OMAR) strategy. This role is currently undertaken
by RFA DILIGENCE. Due to the lack of underpinning
documentation such as CONORS and CONEMP for
FRC or FRS, and the CONEMP for OMAR being only in
draft, this document is issued as a Candidate MDAL.
Baseline and occupational noise
exposure survey onboard RFA Fort
Austin
Institute of Naval Medicine, Alverstoke (GB) (2013)
Noise measurements were made in 310 compartments
and cabins at various locations onboard RFA Fort
Austin whilst the ship sailed from Rosyth, Scotland
to Plymouth, Devon. These measurements included
noise in 16 Marine Engineering (ME) spaces. The
data have been assessed and interpreted in accord
with the recommended maximum noise limits (MNL)
listed in the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Code
of Practice on Controlling Risks due to Noise on
Ships. Occupational noise exposures of personnel
of the ME section were also assessed in accordance
with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations
(2005). The A-weighted equivalent continuous sound
pressure levels show that fourteen compartments
onboard RFA Fort Austin exceeded the recommended
limits specified in the guidelines. Although these
compartments were seen to exceed the recommended
limits, those measurements that exceed the limits
by 1 dB(A) or less (3 compartments) should be used
with caution as the accuracy of the meter should be
taken into account. It is estimated that ME personnel
would be expected to reach the upper exposure action
value (85 dB(A)) based on a given typical working
day. Current hearing protection used by ME personnel,
if well maintained and used appropriately, should
provide sufficient protection against the high sound
pressure levels measured in these spaces.
R0002EE23
Briefing Note - Exercise Enduring
Sunrise
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
Exercise Enduring Sunrise will be jointly funded by the
Dstl Programme Office (PO), (in| response to Research
Goals (RG) identified by the Prep CPG), and the
Flight Simulation and Synthetic Training Project Team
(FsAST PT). Ex ES will be designed to accommodate
a number of research aims and objectives. The aims
and objectives will be aligned to meet both near and
longer term capability requirements from delivery
(FsAST PT driven), and future sustainment and
evolutionary perspectives (Prep CPG RG driven). The
need to conduct a War Fighter Experiment (WFE) that
affords the maximum opportunity to satisfy all aims
and objectives has been a critical factor in the design
approach of Ex ES. The Exercise will be drawing on
over 12 years of research into collective training and
will inform the requirements for DOTC(A) as the PT
move towards the tendering stage.
4
Candidate Master Data and
Assumptions List for the Forward Repair
Ship (FRS)
R0002F2BC
Candidate User Requirements
Document for the Forward Repair Ship
(FRS)
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
This document has been compiled in response to
tasking under STECH/008 from Naval Command
Headquarters (NCHQ) for a User Requirements
Document (URD) to define threshold and objective
Measures of Effectiveness (MoE) that describe the
delivery of capability by the Forward Repair Ship
(FRS). The purpose of this document is to create a
URD that can act as a baseline to help NC understand
what FRS provides and what it will have to provide
in the immediate future. It will also facilitate
procurement in the event of needing to replace the
current FRS capability. The FRS is the afloat support
platform operated by the RFA to deliver Forward
Repair Capability (FRO) to Entitled Units under the
Operational Maintenance And Repair (OMAR) strategy.
This role is currently undertaken by RFA DILIGENCE.
Due to the lack of underpinning documentation such
as CONOPS and CONEMP for FRC or FRS, and the
CONEMP for OMAR being only in draft, this document
is issued as a Candidate URD.
R0002F2BC
Candidate User Requirements
Document for the Forward Repair Ship
(FRS)
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
This document has been compiled in response to
tasking under STECH/008 from Naval Command
Headquarters (NCHQ) for a User Requirements
Document (URD) to define threshold and objective
Measures of Effectiveness (MoE) that describe the
delivery of capability by the Forward Repair Ship
(FRS). The purpose of this document is to create a
URD that can act as a baseline to help NC understand
what FRS provides and what it will have to provide
in the immediate future. It will also facilitate
procurement in the event of needing to replace the
current FRS capability. The FRS is the afloat support
platform operated by the RFA to deliver Forward
Repair Capability (FRO) to Entitled Units under the
Operational Maintenance And Repair (OMAR) strategy.
This role is currently undertaken by RFA DILIGENCE.
Due to the lack of underpinning documentation
such as CONOPS and CONEMP for Forward Repair
Capability (FRC) or FRS, and the CONEMP for OMAR
being only in draft, this document is issued as a
Candidate URD.
R0002F171
CDE22826 Secure Messaging using
Atomic Clocks - Capping Paper
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
This Technical Partner’s capping paper provides a
summary of project CDE22826, undertaken by the
National Physical Laboratory as part of the Trustworthy
Digital Systems CDE call. The project explored a
possible alternative to traditional encryption by
means of hiding plaintext data in random bit streams
whose position is known in terms of specific time
information. The timing position of the data is shared
and determined by sender and receiver maintaining
synchronised clocks, especially atomic clocks. A
demonstration system was built which successfully
showed the feasibility of the technical approach,
although the strength of the confidentiality protection
provided was not investigated. Research was also
carried out to characterise and compare quartz
clocks performance, in terms of stability, drift and
predictability, with that of caesium atomic clocks.
This paper recommends that the characterisation work
could be continued to cover other forms of atomic
clock technologies and emerging chip scale atomic
clocks.
R0002F0B9
COEIA Transparency Pilot Study Final
Report
QinetiQ, Farnborough (GB) (2013)
This study addressed the need to ensure that the
approvals process for the procurement of defence
equipment and services is consistent with the legal
requirements on transparency arising from the Public
Contract Regulations 2006, the Defence and Security
Public Contract Regulations 2011 (DSPCR), and
legal rulings such as the 2008 Newham ruling. The
study reviewed the potential of three Decision Theory
techniques - Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA),
utility theory and indifference curves - as methods
for evaluating and displaying the decision criteria
for COEIA-based defence acquisition decisions. It
identified the issues which the decision-making
process must address, and identified a possible
solution, in which the academic formulations of these
techniques have been developed into a workable,
repeatable and auditable process. The study developed
a potential solution, based on the established decision
analysis technique of Utility Theory, to the problem
developing transparent and publishable award criteria
for public procurements which are subject to the
requirements of DSPCR. The principal functions
required by the method were implemented, for test
and demonstration purposes, in an Excel workbook.
Using this workbook, a trial was conducted against
data from an actual COEIA conducted by Dstl in
2012. This trial showed that the method makes it
possible to generate, from an elicited joint utility
function, a cost-benefit indifference map against
which the cost-benefit tradeoffs offered by competing
acquisition solutions can be plotted and ranked;
and that the joint utility function and map could be
generated and published, as part of the Invitation to
Tender process, without prior knowledge of the options
to be submitted.
R0002F764
Depleted Uranium Environmental
Survey: QinetiQ Eskmeals 2011
Dstl, Alverstoke (GB) (2013)
Depleted uranium (DU) ammunition has been
historically test fired at the Eskmeals ranges. Routine
environmental monitoring has been carried out at
Eskmeals since 1981 to assess the environmental
impact of the firings on the terrestrial environment and
any associated radiological risks. This report presents
the findings of the terrestrial survey undertaken at
Eskmeals during 2011. Although some low level DU
contamination was detected on site, no sample was
radioactive within the meaning of the Environmental
Permitting Regulations 2010, nor exceeded a small
fraction of the relevant Generalised Derived Limit. The
levels detected were well below anything which could
be considered a health hazard either to those who work
on the range or those who live nearby.
R0002F15E
Dstl Review of ARTIST Deliverables
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
The ARTIST analysis programme conducted in 20112012 has used the data collected during the ARTIST
Wallops Island trials and has refined and developed
further techniques to mitigate shortfalls in the
maritime environment. In addition the ARTIST analysis
programme has included tasks that address shortfalls
in the Air domain (Ground Based Air Defence - GBAD),
but which are very similar to those encoutered in the
Maritime domain. Further experimentation has also
been conducted at the Cowes site to provide a more
comprehensive data set where required. Development
of data logging for Sampson and target generaton
equipment for Sampson has been conducted to
support the experimentation and allow quantification
of system performance. This report reviews the
deliverables from this programme.
5
R00030029
R0002F01D
DUST: Collaborative Weapons Sighting
Environmental Data for Range
Prediction Uncertainty Analysis
2D3 Ltd, West Way (GB) (2012)
The essential contribution of this report is the
demonstration of computer vision techniques
to provide an automatic method of optical
correspondence to improve the sighting accuracy of
a shared target. Widely available COTS devices for
determining position, heading, and range (including
GPS, MEMS IMUs, magnetometers, and laser TOF
rangefinders) have become small enough to be truly
man-portable. They are generally not sufficiently
accurate for use in targeting. Even with a limited
stand-off of 100m, a 3Deg error (not untypical for
a MEMS device) translates to a targeting error of
5m, which may be entirely unacceptable. Optical
correspondence, the operating principle of the
theodolite, permits targeting with as much precision
as the optics allows. The computer vision techniques
of matching feature descriptors (SIFT) and further
filtering matches by requiring a geometric constraint
(using RANSAC to find a valid homography) were
incorporated into a prototype system to provide
an automated optical correspondence method for
sighting shared target. The system was successfully
demonstrated to DSTL and DES on 22 Match 2012.
R0002F395
ELS JSC01 Task 3 Data for Inventory
Management Final Report
SEA, Beckington (GB) (2013)
This research activity was required to identify
Inventory Management (IM) data requirements, assess
present shortfalls and their impact, and identify
proposed practicable solutions. In particular, the work
was to be undertaken noting the requirements for the
Base Inventory and Warehouse Management System
(BIWMS). The work was conducted for Joint Support
Chain Support Chain Management (JSC SCM) under
the Defence Science & Technology Laboratory (Dstl)/
Expeditionary Logistics & Support (ELS) contract
managed by Systems Engineering & Assessment
(SEA) Ltd The research has identified a set of 24
“good practice” decisions derived from industry for
the effective and efficient management of inventory
throughout the support chain, supported by a set
of -120 data types that are necessary to inform and
support the “good practice” decisions. The report
recommends that JSC SCM considers using the “good
practice” decisions to inform the definition of the
series of blue prints and use cases intended to act as
surrogates for system or service requirements. These
should be constructed so that they capture the ability
of the proposed service to support the reviewed good
practice decisions using the validated data types.
Implementation of these recommendations will allow
JSC SCM to realise a number of benefits including
being better able to act as an intelligent customer for
IM services, and to better align the short term and
long term aspirations of IM Transformation in the
MOD.
6
Systems Engineering & Assessment Ltd, Frome (GB)
(2012)
This document describes an environmental modelling
approach for enabling the effect of enviromnental
factors on ranging algorithm performance to be
assessed. The approach involves the generation and
supply of eigenray data together with software which
enables the path data to be calculated for a given
environment, sonar and contact. The eigenray data
has been used together with an example sonar system
and contact to determine the environmental effects on
ranging algorithm primary measurements.
R0002F13E
Executive Summary to DSTL/TR71742:
Options for the Protection of MOD
Rotorcraft Engines from Sand and Dust
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
The ingestion of sand by gas turbine engines leads
to component damage, resulting in, at best, reduced
engine life and, at worst, in-flight engine failure. These
issues have been recognised for a number of decades
and have impacted UK rotorcraft operations in Iraq
and Afghanistan. Furthermore, the UK anticipates that
rotorcraft operations will continue for the foreseeable
future in locations where sand and dust presents a
significant threat and mitigation is therefore required.
A number of mitigation solutions exist and are in use
on MOD rotorcraft but these typically date back to
the early 1990s. Advances have been made in the
proceeding decades and advanced mitigation solutions
are available that may reduce through life costs and
alleviate risk. This report provides recommendations
on the work required to enhance the mitigation
solutions used on MOD platforms moving forward and
the required supporting research. A full technical
report has been prepared detailing the full findings
from this study which was delivered in May 2013. This
document consists of a standalone executive summary
to Dstl report TR71742 “Options for the Protection
of MOD Rotorcraft Engines from Sand and Dust” and
is intended to act as a quick reference to the key
findings and recommendations from the study.
R0002EDD5
FDUAS CCD OA Report
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
The Flexible Deployable Unmanned Air System
(FDUAS) Concept Capability Demonstration (CCD),
Trial Vigilant Vanguard, was successfully conducted
during December 2012. The CCD was sponsored
by Cap ISTAR and funded through Dstl’s maritime
research programme. This was the first time that an
Unmanned Air System (UAS) has been seamlessly
integrated into the South Coast Exercise Areas
(SCEXAS) and flown in accordance with Air Traffic
Control (ATC) procedures under a UK Military Aviation
Authority (MAA) Certificate of Use, in close proximity
to civilian maritime traffic. During the demonstration
the FDUAS was directed by ATC to manoeuvre or
relocate in order to deconflict with manned aircraft
and this process was carried out without incident. The
demonstration consisted of 5 flights and 15.5 flying
hours over a period of 4 days, with 100% system
serviceability. The demonstration was conducted
smoothly and according to the plan. Throughout the
demonstration, the FDUAS successfully detected and
identified surface contacts utilising its Electro-Optic
(EO) and Infra-Red (IR) cameras. The FDUAS was
also equipped with an AIS sensor which significantly
extended the AIS picture as received by the host
vessel. The FDUAS was successfully cued onto
surface targets via a Lynx Mark 8 helicopter, thus
achieving manned-unmannned integration. This OA
report, written by Dstl on behalf of the MWC, details
the background to the demonstration, an overview of
previous work, details on the sorties flown, a review
of the demonstration objections and sortie objectives,
and suggestions for further work.
R0002EA08
From Multi Level Security to Cross
Domain Solutions
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
An investigation is carried out ‘to identify options
for achieving a Multi Level Security (MLS) solution
for simulation interoperability’. Users across UK
defence are increasingly seeking to move from running
at multiple levels of security to a Cross Domain
Solution (CDS) which would allow information to
be shared between participants on a ‘need to know’
basis. This would improve both the interoperability
and consistency of simulations as well as having the
potential to reduce whole life costs across the whole
of training for UK defence. The main stakeholders and
the exploitation route for this work are the organisers
of and participants in training events across the
whole of Joint Collective Training for UK Defence,
including training undertaken in collaboration with
our coalition partners. Discussions were held with
a wide variety of national and international experts,
with further leverage gained through participation
in NATO Modelling and Simulation Group 080,
Simulation Interoperability Standards Organisation
(SISO) Workshops and the SISO Security in Simulation
Standing Study Group. The main recommendations are
to: Investigate the Naval System Telephone Network
(NSTN) further and ascertain whether this can be
used as a starting point for discussions with the
accreditation community to inform the development
of a full CDS. Re-engage with the accreditation
community to improve mutual understanding. Liaise
with defence education providers (e.g. Defence
Academy) to develop learning material covering the
accreditation of simulations, to be included in their
accreditor courses. Research promising alternative
candidate approaches to scenario design.
R0002F11F
Improvements to the Environmental
Background Model (EBM)
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
The aim of the work was to review the existing
Environmental Background Model (EBM), identify its
limitations and determine the extent to which these
could be overcome by incorporating more information
from published literature, and more importantly by
including information from an analysis of background
aerosol measurements and conducting validation
tests. Data from a Wide Issue Bioaerosol Spectrometer
(WIBS) was obtained at Marylebone Road in London
and was used in this validation process. A review of
the existing EBM found that, while the fundamental
basis was sound and the model included the best
available biological aerosol data, it had significant
limitations. These limitations meant that the model
was not realistic enough to support the development
or evaluation of generic detector technologies. Further
work was then undertaken to determine if the EBM
could be modified to provide sufficiently validated
outputs. Improvements were identified following a
literature review, reanalysis of the original input data
and the acquisition and analysis of high temporal
resolution aerosol data. This allowed the concentration
fluctuations predicted by the model to be assessed
for the first time. The proposed improvements will
address the most significant problems identified in the
review, and improve the credibility of modelled aerosol
concentrations in UK environments.
R0002EC00
Issues surrounding airworthiness of
firmware based electronic warfare (EW)
systems
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
This report discusses the issues surrounding
certification of firmware based electronic warfare
equipment onto military aircraft. The airworthiness
regime and the impact of the new MAA regulations
are discussed in relation to air safety of complex
electronics. Recommendations are made as how to
proceed with a method to ensure that EW system
firmware can be reprogrammed quickly to meet
operational needs whilst still ensuring flight safety.
R0002F158
Laboratory Scale Testing of the
Honeywell Catalytic Oxidation (CATOX)
Chemical and Biological (CB) Filtration
Technology for COLPRO Applications
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
This report presents test results from Honeywell’s
CATOX filtration technology when evaluated against a
range of toxic industrial chemicals (TIC) and chemical
warfare agent (CWA) simulants. The technology has
been shown to be effective at oxidising all of the test
compounds, meeting the requirements of AEP54 as a
collective protection (COLPRO) vapour filtration device
7
R0002EBA4
Maritime Influence Planning Tools
Review
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2012)
This report meets Navy Command Headquarters’
requirement to examine the fitness for purpose of
current influence planning tools, specifically the
Country Influence Plans (CIPs) and Maritime Influence
Matrices (MIMs). This study meets this requirement
by: a) Identifying whether the tools follow Influence
planning best practice. b) Identifying whether the tools
users think they are useful and provide the required
information in an easy to use format. c) Making
recommendations for improving the tools available to
conduct Influence planning. The report also briefly
compares the CIPs with their predecessor, the now
defunct Maritime Regional Engagement Plans, in order
to establish if anything can be learnt from previous
maritime Influence planning tools. This project is
funded as part of Dstl’s Human and Social Influence
programme of work and was commissioned by the
Cyber and Influence Centre. The primary customer for
this study is Fleet Operational Policy.
R0002F018
Materials technologies for Unmanned
Systems - Scoping Study for Technical
Demonstrator Projects for the Mine
Counter Measure Hydrography and
Patrol Capability
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
As part of the Royal Navy’s need to replace its aging
mine countermeasure (MCM), hydrographic and
patrol ships over the next decade DE&S Technology
Demonstrator Group is currently assessing the
potential of unmanned surface vehicles (USV). This
would allow any mother vessel, in this case likely
to be the planned MCM, Hydrographic and Patrol
Vessel (MHPV) to operate at length from areas of high
risk to maximise crew safety and enhance capability
through sweeping and covert route reconnaissance.
Traditionally this has been performed by vessels with
low magnetic signature such as the Hunt and Sandown
class vessels. In support of the “Unmanned Systems
Scoping Study for Technical Demonstrator Projects
for the MHPV Capability Requirement” Information
has been gathered from Dstl subject matter experts
(SMEs) based on a limited knowledge of the
equipment requirements for such a USV. Information
has been provided on lightweight structural materials,
composites and light alloys; current and future
technologies; signature management; and protection
technologies.
R0002E74E
Measures of Effectiveness for DOTC(A)
Options Analysis
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl)
undertook a study on behalf of the Flight simulation
8
And Synthetic Trainers Project Team (FsAST PT),
to provide supporting analysis for the Defence
Operational Training Capability (Air) programme.
(DOTC(A)) Eight conceptual options (nine including
‘Do nothing’) are presented as candidates for the
delivery of collective training for selected Fast Jet,
Rotary Wing, Intelligence, Surveillance, Target
Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) air assets.
The assessment draws upon analysis on Mission
Essential Competencies (MEC) to approximate a
training requirement. Structured workshops and
Military Judgement Panels (MJP) then provide the
context for the assessment of each option against this
requirement. The results underline the significance
and value of training in the collective environment and
also highlight the key components and capabilities
that must be represented in effective potential
solutions. Some additional recommendations are
made for further analysis that address capacity and
throughput, not fully addressed by this study.
R0002F17D
Modelling Aviation Security Screening
Strategies (MAS3) Update
Dstl, Fort Halstead (GB) (2013)
This document summarises the work conducted during
FY12/13 to develop a modelling capability suitable
for assessing and/or proposing potential screening
strategies and configurations for Outcome Focussed
Risk Based (OFRB) regulation for aviation security.
R0002E962
MSS_1213_01_06_01, “UK and NATO
Interoperability impacts of the US
LBUCS Programme
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
The report describes a joint US/UK programme of work
under a new Project Agreement (the “VLF Comms
PA”), intended to sustain interoperability in Very Low
Frequency (VLF) communications - the primary bearer
used for command and control of submarines. This
PA is necessary because the US has embarked on an
upgrade programme for its VLF system known as Low
Band Universal Communications System (LBUCS),
which is transforming both the shore infrastructure
and the over-air waveforms. Under the PA, the US
and UK will be developing interoperable modes and
identifying means whereby the two nations can use
each other’s VLF infrastructure to improve coverage
and reduce costs. Without this work, the RN will lose
interoperability with the USN, including the ability to
receive the US Special Intelligence (SI) broadcasts.
Doing nothing is therefore an unacceptable option.
A second strand of the work is in support of the
Submarine Communications Buoy Programme
Agreement and Technology Demonstrator Programme.
This buoy is being developed for the SUCCESSOR
SSBN project and is intended to replace the buoyant
wire antenna as the primary VLF receiving antenna
for UK and US submarines. To realise the full benefit
of this device, new modes and processing techniques
will be required to overcome phase variations caused
by the sea surface, and to enable operation at greater
depth - to minimise visual and radar signature.
R0002ED14
Occupational Stress and Voluntary
Outflow In The Royal Navy
Institute of Naval Medicine, Gosport (GB) (2013)
This report examines the effects of stress and other
physical health and psychosocial factors on whether
personnel voluntarily left the Naval prematurely
(VO) between 2007 and 2012. Questionnaire data
captured in January-March 2007 were examined in
relation to VO in male and female junior rates, senior
rates and officers. In general, most of the workplace
stressors (such as role conflict or peer support) were
not antecedents of VO in any group. Junior rates with
psychological strain in 2007, the adverse reaction
to work demands, had an increased risk of VO. Low
commitment to the Service in 2007 increased the
odds of VO in male and female junior rates and
female officers. Female junior rates with less effective
skills for coping with stress and who exercised less
frequently on a weekly basis were more likely to take
VO. An incidental finding was that the odds of VO were
three times greater in female officers with children
than in female officers with no children. Stress
management interventions focussing on effective
coping and sports and exercise participation targeted
at all junior rates may improve retention.
R0002F013
Olympics & Paralympics Search and
Screening: Games Time Data Collection
Dstl, Fort Halstead (GB) (2013)
This document details the data collection undertaken
by the cross-Government Search and Screening team
during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic
Games. It provides a summary of deployments,
analysis of the data collected and a description of how
it is intended to use this data in the future.
R0002F2D6
OPCW Proficiency Testing and Lessons
Identified (2012-2013)
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2012)
The analytical chemistry capability at Dstl is funded
by DST-Strategy, CB Threat Reduction through the
Chemical Analysis, Verification and Attribution (CAVA)
programme (Dstl Project 704835). The capability
provides chemical analysis and advice to a wide variety
of stakeholders across the MOD and government. A key
objective under the CAVA programme is to maintain
an accredited analytical chemistry capability for the
identification of chemical warfare agents and other
threat chemicals. As an international benchmark
for this capability Dstl participates annually in the
proficiency testing scheme run by the Organisation
for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).
In October 2012, Dstl participated in the 32nd
OPCW Proficiency Test. This report summarises the
outcomes and lessons learned through participation
in this test. Dstl was successful in the test and was
awarded a maximum A grade for correct identification
and reporting of the spiking chemicals. As a
result Dstl has maintained its status as an OPCW
Designated Laboratory. A small number of continuous
improvements to Dstl’s procedures and report style
were recommended based on internal scrutiny of
the test evaluator’s comments, internal meetings
and the annual Surveillance Audit carried out by
Dstl’s accrediting organisation the United Kingdom
Accreditation Service (UKAS).
R0002EAA4
Options for Softening of DGC’s Map
Library
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2012)
DGC’s map library holds over 600,000 hard copy
map products that have been collected or exchanged
through memorandums of understanding over the
years. Dstl have been asked to consider the options to
enable transition to a soft copy library. This will require
the hardcopy maps to be scanned, geo- referenced
and stored with appropriate metadata for search and
retrieval in future. The purpose of this report is to
consider the assumptions, technical specifications,
wider considerations, options and recommendations
for this transition.
R0002ED3B
Parsifal Core, Fundamental,
Underpinning, Enabling Research &
Advice Year 1, Work Item Update,
Capability Management of Dormant
Technologies
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
This letter provides a brief summary of the progress
being made to manage dormant capabilities within
Dstl; these capabilities being defined as research
technologies and “know how” that are not currently
funded by the Programme Office. The overarching
aim is that these capabilities can be resurrected
in the medium term should new threats develop
or old threats re-emerge. This work will categorise
technologies and threats that have been investigated
in the past and determine whether there is a likelihood
that they will re-emerge in the future. Effort has
also been used to generate technology time lines
and associated reference data sheets for selected
Armour Technologies. The work will be complemented
by a similar categorisation process by which novel
or emerging threats are addressed, supported by
guidelines on research processes and technologies
likely to counter such threats. A significant quantity of
legacy armour data has been identified, which is held
by Dstl in a number of different formats, including
paper files, photographs, vu-foils, x-rays, 1.4” floppy
discs, external hard discs and VHS videos. It is known
that critical armour design information is held within
this archive. Dstl are currently investigating the most
appropriate means by which this information can be
stored and efficiently retrieved when required.
9
R0002F116
Parsifal Core, Mounted Protection Year
1, Work Item Update, Mine Protection
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
Progress summary of the mines work item within
the mounted protection project in the Parsifal
Core programme. The work item has two strands:
one looking at the potential benifits of active blast
protection measures; and another looking at the
development of improved injury assessment methods
for mine blast testing.
R0002ED34
Patient Satisfaction in the Cold
Injury and Heat Illness Clinics for the
Environmental Medicine and Science
Division From 2009-2012.
Institute of Naval Medicine, Gosport (GB) (2013)
In accordance with Healthcare Governance
requirements, the current study audited patient
satisfaction with the cold injury and heat illness
clinics run by the Environmental Medicine and
Sciences (EMS) Division. Satisfaction scores were
obtained using the validated EMS Patient Satisfaction
Questionnaire (PSQ) from 3207 clinic patients
over the period of October 2009-October 2012.
Satisfaction scores on six separate subscales ranged
from 22% to 78% demonstrating that the level of
satisfaction varied greatly between the six areas
assessed by the questionnaire. The professional care
that the patients received resulted in the highest
satisfaction scores (78%) with the premises of the
clinic receiving the lowest satisfaction score. However,
the majority of patients seemed unconcerned with
the premises of the clinics as 53% gave a neutral
response. A similar pattern of satisfaction levels on the
six subscales has been found to the previous audit of
2008-2009, the satisfaction levels are slightly lower
in five of the six scales in the present audit. From the
Mann Whitney U analysis two significant changes were
show, the satisfaction with the clinic premises reduced
whereas the satisfaction with regard to the depth of
the patients relationship with the Doctor increased.
R0002EBD0
Residual Fatigue Life Estimation
using a Nonlinear Wave Modulation
Spectroscopy Method
University of Bath, Bath (GB) (2013)
Fatigue life estimation is an ongoing unresolved issue.
The objective of this research was to develop a new
technology, based on the principles of nonlinear elastic
wave spectroscopy (NEWS) for accurate detection
of accumulated fatigue damage and residual fatigue
life estimation in materials used in aircraft. In the
proposed work a novel nonlinear wave modulation
technique was developed, where an ultrasonic
probe signal was modulated by two optimized lower
frequency waves coupled to analytical models to find
the relationship between nonlinear parameters and the
10
residual fatigue life. The theoretical and experimental
data demonstrate that the estimation of residual
fatigue damage could be obtained using the proposed
nonlinear wave modulation spectroscopy. This report
details work funded by MAST STC under the CDE
innovation call 2011/12 aiming to seek innovative
materials and structures solutions for defence and
security.
R0002EC23
Review of technical options for Naval
Navigation Radar (NNR) Capability
Sustainment Programme
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
This note describes the technology options for the
radar element of NASAR, the RT1007, RT1008
replacement, briefly describes the main technologies
namely Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave
(FMCW), and pulse radars both magnetron and solid
state. The benefits of each are discussed, and from
these technologies a series of options are drawn down
for consideration by the project team.
R0002F29A
Review: Chemical Agent Fate Models
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
Releases of liquid chemical warfare agents (CWA) can
create long-lasting hazard areas. Droplets deposited on
a surface will result in a liquid contact hazard and an
inhalation hazard due to secondary evaporation of the
agent. The ability to model these types of scenarios
accurately will assist in hazard assessment and advise
on decontamination. This report reviews the existing
suite of models that predict the fate of CWAs and
recommends a number of improvements.
R0002EB3E
Secure messaging using atomic clocks.
National Physical Laboratory, Teddington (GB) (2012)
Datalink security normally assumes a need to encode
or encrypt data before transmitting as digital words
within a bit stream. A simpler concealment method is
to embed the bits carrying the message into a random
bit stream, without start and end signals, transmitting
the first meaningful bit at a previously agreed absolute
time. Only receivers sharing the transmitter’s time
reference will be able to locate the message directly.
Others would have to test for millions of possible start
times in order to intercept the message. Advantages
include a reduction in latency in data transfer and an
ability to communicate in the presence of jamming,
coordinating communications through a jamming
umbrella. Message concealment in this way is possible
with quartz crystal time references, but the drift of
these oscillators is such that only very low data rates
could be supported. High data rate transmissions
may become realistic with the advent of miniaturised
atomic clocks. The project has demonstrated the
use of clocks at both ends of a data link, initially
synchronised then free-running after separation, to
extract individual message bits embedded within a
continuous sequence of transmitted pseudo random
data bits. The time for which communication is
maintained before the reference clocks on the
transmit and receive boards drift sufficiently far
out of synchronisation has been investigated. Both
temperature-controlled quartz oscillators and caesium
atomic clocks have been used as the references,
demonstrating that the higher- performance clocks
allow communication to be maintained for a longer
time before it becomes impossible to identify the
message bits. The stability of each type of clock
was measured over periods of several days and its
predictability calculated and compared with the data
transfer measurements. A brief review has been carried
out of the key areas where the secure communications
concept might be exploited, and recommendations
made for further studies to investigate methods of
enhancing the technique.
R0002EFDA
Sonar processing using SAW devices
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
This short project investigated the feasibility of using
passive analogue Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW)
devices for real-time processing of sonar data. This
could greatly reduce the power burden of sonar
processing on unmanned underwater vehicles. The
study found that, in principle, it is possible to perform
some sonar processing (e.g. beamforming) on SAW
devices by using substrates with lower wavespeeds
than are traditionally used is required. However,
in practice, it was difficult to find low wavespeed
materials compatible with the SAW fabrication process
(they tended to be too rough, or would warp).
R0002EE87
The Historical Characteristics of
Successful Counter-piracy Campaigns
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
The aim of this study is to improve the MoD’s
understanding of successful strategies to counter
the threat of piracy. It discovered that all successful
historical campaigns under analysis utilised
appropriate ship types and intelligence to target pirate
bases and increase the risk to pirates of the loss of
life or property. The targeting of bases always involved
amphibious assault with supporting naval fires. During
contemporary and historical counter-piracy campaigns,
the decision to build a counter- piracy strategy around
the targeting of bases is a strategic-level decision,
with successful diplomacy or changes to laws usually
being prerequisites to the successful application of
military power. A cross-government approach is usually
required to overcome legal barriers, bypass ‘catch and
release’ syndrome and/or gain host nation support.
There have been no successful hijackings by Somali
pirates since pirate bases were targeted in May and
June 2012, primarily by the Puntland Maritime Police
Force, but also by the EU’s counter-piracy task force
deployed on Operation ATALANTA. Onboard Private
Security Teams (PST) and passive measures, such as
evasive manoeuvres, have a far greater role in repelling
pirate attacks, once launched, than naval forces
patrolling the Indian Ocean. Vessels with an armed
PST have never been hijacked by Somali pirates.
Options for further work include investigating the
viability of UK support to building the capabilities of
Puntland’s counter-piracy forces.
R0002EE7B
The Technical Cooperation Program
- Land Group Annual Report - March
2013
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
A review of the progress made by The Technical
Cooperation Program (TTCP) Land Systems Group
(LND) between April 2012 and March 2013 has been
conducted by consideration of the requirements of the
five Technical Panels (TPs) and Action Groups (AGs)
and the guidance provided by the TTCP Principals
from their annual meeting in October 2012. Specific
activity has been the review conducted by the UK
National Representative (NR) in support of the Land
Group action to establish an S&T Framework to
support TTCP Armies in the 2030 timeframe which
draws from relevant MOD Stakeholders and the UK
Future Land Operational Concept (FLOC). Other
highlights include the TTCP Team Award to the Action
Group on the Mitigation of Battlefield Trauma following
the successful completion of their programme. The 4
remaining TPs/AGs continue to make steady progress
against their respective plans but the organisational
changes and budget pressures currently in all nations
are impacting delivery. Notwithstanding this, the UK
continues to derive considerable benefit from TTCP
investment and based on current achievements and
progress the financial “gearing” is estimated to be
between 2.5 to 3 times the value of UK programme
“exposed” to TTCP valued at approximately £5 million
per annum.
R0002EB3D
Top Level Functional and Interface
Specification.
National Physical Laboratory, Teddington (GB) (2012)
This document describes the top level functional
design and interface specification for an experimental
rig to demonstrate the superior timing drift of atomic
clocks over the quartz crystal based clocks that are
used in present communication systems. Plextek
designed and supplied equipment to demonstrate this,
in support of a Centre For Defence Enterprise (CDE)
project on “Secure Messaging Using Atomic Clocks”
(CDE22826). The method is to align two quartz
oscillators to close to their specification and then let
them drift whilst using them to clock different ends
of a data link. The number of clock cycles that occur
at both ends of the link during the test is recorded.
This test is then to be repeated by NPL using atomic
clocks.
11
R0002EF4E
R0002F1D3
Training and Personnel HLOA Progress
Report March 2013
UK French Exchange Programme 2013
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
This is an update on progress towards addressing a key
gap in the provision of evidence-based advice to MOD:
the relationship between the people component of
capability and operational or strategic success. Using
existing human sciences literature and analysis of real
world military data sets across a variety of domains,
we have established clear and consistent patterns in
how people improve from training and experience. We
have used these insights to develop a working model
of training as a concept demonstration, representing
the training cycle of a Type 45 crew. Working with
industry partners via the Defence Human Capability
Science and Technology Centre (DHCSTC), we have
developed and demonstrated a new method of eliciting
and representing understanding about training
shortfalls and their impact on operational risk. Again
through the DHCSTC, we have reviewed the existing
capability to understand personnel issues within High
Level Operational analysis (HLOA)and identified key
gaps which future development should address. Taken
together, the work so far has demonstrated the credible
foundation of an achievable analytical “toolbox”
that can be used to provide advice on personnel and
training issues in a strategy and capability context.
R0002E95E
Training Experimentation Simulator
Systems (Land) - TESS(L) Final Report
on Tasks 2a,2b,2c
XPI Simulation Ltd., Chessington (GB) (2013)
This document is the final report for the Training
Experimentation Simulator Systems (Land) project
undertaken by an industry team for DSTL. The
project led by XPI Simulation Ltd. as lead contractor
consisted of 3 separate tasks, each led by a different
team member. Task 2a, led by XPI Simulation Ltd.,
produced a research oriented Warrior vehicle driving
simulator ; Task 2b, led by CAE (UK) plc, produced
a modified Common Instructor Operating System
(CIOS) and scoring module, which was interfaced
to the simulator produced in task 2a ; Task 2c, led
by QinetiQ Ltd., and assisted by Newman and Spurr
Consultancy Ltd. produced a paper study considering
crew, platoon and company level training for Warrior
Capability Sustainment Programme (WCSP). Tasks 2a
and 2b aligned to produce a system which was used
by DSTL Information Management Department (IMD)
for a human trial of driver performance “Effectiveness
of an AFV Simulator to Train Driving” - EASTD. This
scientifically controlled trial was designed to evaluate
the use of simulators for driver training. This report
contains a review of the project tasks, each written by
the relevant task lead. The industry team have made a
series of 14 recommendations.
12
Dstl Fort Halstead (GB) (2013)
HM Government has set a high priority on closer
cooperation with France, including in Defence
Research. On 2 November 2010, the British Prime
Minister and French President signed a Defence Cooperation Treaty. Dstl has a number of initiatives to
support this relationship including the UK French
Exchange Programme (UFEP). UFEP is a networking
event aimed at developing links between early-career
scientists, engineers and project managers working
within the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the
Direction Generale de I’Armement (DGA) in France.
The scheme was established in 2007 to support
the establishment and development of a network of
staff who in the longer term could help support and
initiate cooperation defence research and acquisition
programmes between the UK and France. This report
provides a summary of tranche 5 (2012-2013) of
the programme including the contact details of the
participants who took part, details of the events that
took place within the programme, and a review of
the scheme with recommendations for the next year
in the programme. The scheme has incorporated a
number of changes this year to maximise exploitation
opportunities, involving closer links with mentors.
Three small projects were investigated by the
participants. The title of the projects were: UAV
Integration onto Naval Ships Land Vehicles Mobility
Comparison of UK and French approach to the service
life of weapons
R0002EE84
UK National Military Utility Assessment
(MUA) of TacSat-4 During the 1 Year
Experimental Phase
Dstl, Portsdown West (GB) (2013)
This is the UK assessment of the military utility of the
Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO) TacSat-4 small satellite
UHF SATCOM system. It is based principally on the
observation by Dstl scientists and military staff of
experiments undertaken at the Trident Warrior 2012
exercise. The satellite system has utility in being able
to provide coverage at latitudes higher than provided
by GEO SATCOM and providing SATCOM using man
portable terminals with no requirements for antenna
pointing. A constellation of 3-4 such low cost/small
satellites would provide continuous coverage for a
single terrain hemisphere, including the Poles, North or
South.
R0002F150
Ultra high temperature ceramics Phase
II -Year 2
Dstl, Porton Down (GB) (2013)
This report describes a programme of work on ultrahigh temperature ceramics (UHTCs) designed to
provide Ministers with advice on their relevance to
re-entry vehicle concept development. The work
demonstrates that UHTCs are able to withstand
ultra-high heat fluxes, describes the development
of prototype ultra-high temperature structures and
recommends additional effort to be focussed on
extreme environment testing, joining and exploitation
of UHTCs. Details of collaborative work with the US
Air Force Research Laboratory are also included.
R0002ED3D
Whole-body vibration measurements in
an Armoured Engineer Tractor, “Terrier
Institute of Naval Medicine, Alverstoke (GB) (2013)
Whole-body vibration measurements were made in
an Armoured Engineer Tractor, ‘Terrier’. Acceleration
measurements were made on two seats (driver and
commander) and the vehicle floor with the vehicle
travelling over road, track and cross-country terrain.
Measurements were also made with the vehicle
involved in digging operations. Three translational
axes of vibration were measured in each seat and the
floor. The data have been assessed and interpreted in
accord with current standards concerned with health
and comfort aspects of human exposure to wholebody vibration: ISO 2631-1, PA(V)D and the Control
of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005. A maximum
single axis frequency-weighted vibration magnitude of
0.9 ms to the power of minus 2 r.m.s. was measured
on the driver’s seat during cross-country travel. When
assessing the health aspects of exposure to vibration,
crew exposure could reach the ‘daily exposure action
value’ after about 2.5 hours of travel over crosscountry. Higher vibration magnitudes were measured
during travel over cross-country compared with travel
over other surfaces and digging operations. Based on
the daily exposure limit value, travel over cross-country
terrain should not exceed a period of about 13 hours
per day. It is recommended that all crewmembers be
informed and trained on the forms of actions that they
can take to reduce their exposure to vibration.
Project ATHENA is a MOD-funded project run by Dstl
to provide MOD with a central repository for storing
scientific and technical (S&T) reports of current
and past research programmes and projects. This
repository is known as the ATHENA Collection and is
made available to MOD and Industry through a variety
of products and services.
For further information about Defence Reporter,
or to provide feedback, please contact:
[email protected]
Acknowledgements
This publication was supported by the Defence Science and
Technology Organisation (DSTO) of Australia and the Institute
of Naval Medicine, who have provided report citations for
inclusion in Defence Reporter.
Disclaimer: Defence Reporter is compiled from research
reports and is offered as a service by Dstl Knowledge and
Information Services solely for informational purposes.
The appearance of an item in Defence Reporter does not
constitute an endorsement by Dstl or MOD.
13

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