UK MoD To Get Kelvin Hughes Control Radars For Tanker Fleet

Kelvin Hughes Surveillance has won a contract from the UK MoD to supply integrated bridge systems (IBS) and helicopter control radars for four fleet tankers being built for the UK Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA). The ships are the first phase of the UK MOD's Military Afloat Reach and Sustainability (MARS) programme, commissioned to maintain the Royal Navy's ability to refuel at sea and provide fuel to warships and task groups. The IBS is based on its state of the art solid state SharpEye radar sensor and Naval MantaDigital (NMD) display, bringing significant operational benefits such as a low integration risk, enhanced operational capability and reduced whole-life cost. Each shipset will consist of three SharpEye radars, accessed and controlled via multiple console mounted NMD tactical displays. The system will also include a suite of navigation sensors and other third party equipment. Rohan Dearlove, head of business development for the naval market sector, said, "This contract represents the first implementation of SharpEye on a key UK maritime platform and demonstrates customer confidence in our solid state technology and the inherent benefits it brings". At over 200 metres long, the four tankers will support deployed amphibious, land and air forces close to the shore, will be able to operate helicopters and are planned to enter service from 2016, replacing existing RFA single hulled tankers. The ships will carry fuel, stores and provide logistic support for maritime and expeditionary forces including Carrier Strike. The versatility of the tanker platform means that simultaneously it can refuel an aircraft carrier and destroyer whilst undertaking helicopter resupply of other vessels.