QinetiQ will support four separate work packages addressing a variety
of trials to support Acoustic, Magnetic signatures, weapon discharge
and electronic warfare calibration which will be conducted on QinetiQ
managed ranges and in the open sea. QinetiQ has a long and successful
history of providing extensive test and evaluation services for ships
and submarines including the previous two Astute class and the Type
45 Destroyers.
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Gary
Dunn, Requirements Manager Sea Trials, Submarine Production Team, MoD,
said: “In awarding this contract we were looking for more efficient
and effective ways of delivering the trials programme with a strong
emphasis on improving value for money. In addition due to the nature
of acceptance and testing programmes we need to work with a supplier
capable of dealing with short term changes of plan. We selected QinetiQ
because they have delivered a significant reduction in the defined programme
costs, underpinned by their ability to manage a complex programme in
a highly flexible and responsive manner.”
The acceptance and testing trials will cover static and underway acoustic
signature measurements, magnetic signature measurements and optimisation,
weapon discharge and electronic warfare calibration.
QinetiQ will manage the range infrastructures and all aspects of range
safety whilst coordinating the required skilled personnel and facilities
including those of its subcontractors. QinetiQ will also gather information
throughout the programme to produce comprehensive reports at the end
of each trial to support both the acceptance and the operational handover
of the submarine to the Royal Navy. QinetiQ will work closely with the
submarine and provide specific knowledge and expertise in areas such
as acoustics and magnetics as necessary.
Phil Metcalfe, Head of Stealth Information and Range Services, QinetiQ,
said: “We have developed a long and fruitful relationship with
the MoD sea trials team and are very pleased to be working on the third
of the Astute class of submarines. We are constantly looking at ways
to improve the value we deliver and increase the efficiency of the testing
and acceptance trials by reducing costs, generating actionable information
and improving the whole process.” |
