WASSP delivers Wireless Naval Solution
Sep 20, 2017
New Zealand based manufacturer of Multi-beam technology WASSP Ltd has
recently delivered three rapid-deploy WASSP Wireless systems to the
Royal New Zealand Navy.
The New Zealand Ministry of Defence (MoD) identified that the Obstacle
Avoidance Sonar (OAS) that was fitted to the RNZN Multi Role Vessel
Canterbury was outdated and needed replacing.
Studies by the MoD had indicated that obstacle avoidance capability for both floating and fixed obstacles
A review of the concept of operation provided an alternative solution
that more clearly reflected the practical requirement for obstacle
avoidance and safe ship navigation in particular scenarios.
The MoD selected the Obstacle Avoidance requirement for the Protector
fleet be provided using Rigid Hull Inflatable (RHIB) mounted multi-beam
sonar technology.
In order to meet the capability need, WASSP Ltd, a ENL Group company,
offered three semi-self-contained rapid-deploy multi-beam systems based
around their new DRX platform. Combined with wireless link technology,
it allows RHIB’s to be deployed from larger surface vessels to map
seafloor topography and assimilate sub-surface data and provide a rapid
area assessment that is wirelessly transmitted back to the “mothership”
in a real-time 3D animation. The result is delivery of real-time
underwater situational awareness to the ships bridge and its decision
makers.
“We are immensely proud that our WASSP systems will be employed to
provide the Royal New Zealand Navy Protector fleet an increased level of
awareness in their operations domestically and abroad, with technology
developed locally and now utilised in over 40 countries in various
operational uses”, says Gareth Hodson, CEO ENL Group.
“The rapid deployable Wireless WASSP systems are just a part of the
product portfolio WASSP Ltd is developing to meet customer requirements,
we also have many high end superyachts utilising similar wireless
systems we manufacture to explore poorly charted areas, as well as fixed
mount systems for work boats and fisheries” says Hodson.
1. Pre operational checks on RHIB
2. Underwater imagery provided by WASSP System
3. WASSP DRX Hardware