Internet-of-Things firm completes asset tracking trial for UK MoD
HMNB Devonport is the largest naval base in Western Europe, making it a challenge to locate equipment efficiently. (Photo: Smarter Technologies)
A recent trial saw efficiency at Devonport naval base improved through an IoT data network to track equipment.
UK-based Internet-of-Things (IoT) solutions provider Smarter Technologies has completed a government-furnished equipment (GFE) asset tracking trial at HM Naval Base Devonport.
The trial, undertaken on behalf of the UK MoD, saw Smarter’s Orion IoT data network used to track ‘mission-critical’ GFE.
The MoD sought to trial how technology could be used to increase efficiency at the large naval base.
Some 200 pieces of GFE were selected to be tracked, including waterfront assets such as pontoons and mobile cranes.
Over 15 weeks, 3.2 million performance records were generated using real-time data that could be remotely viewed on demand.
During the trial, the average time to locate and check items was reduced by over two thirds due to the ability to track the location of assets in near real-time.
Smarter Technologies said other benefits included monitoring contractor performance and capturing trends in equipment and fleet usage.
Orion uses a low-power ultra-narrow low band 433MHz UHF radio system.
More from Defence Notes
-
![Global tensions drive defence supply chain scrutiny]()
Global tensions drive defence supply chain scrutiny
Governments worldwide are scrambling to decouple defence supply chains from dependency upon strategic rivals, but countries could struggle to do it all themselves.
-
![How deepening AI usage can boost efficiency and maximise effects for forces]()
How deepening AI usage can boost efficiency and maximise effects for forces
Saab has outlined how it is using artificial intelligence to make training more like electronic gaming, while the UK’s Power Size Technologies is applying the same technology to better evaluate and design vehicle capability, moving AI-enabled innovation further upstream from the frontline.
-
![From systems integrator to multi-domain solutions provider (video)]()
From systems integrator to multi-domain solutions provider (video)
Philipp von Brandenstein, Head of Corporate Communications at Rheinmetall, explains how Eurosatory 2026 marked a new stage in the company's evolution.
-
![US Pentagon pushes for major reform of defence acquisition system]()
US Pentagon pushes for major reform of defence acquisition system
The US Department of Defense has requested new contracting authorities from Congress, using the Army's MV-75 Cheyenne programme to demonstrate how competition, digital engineering and closer industry collaboration could accelerate acquisitions.
-
![US speeds up B61-13 nuclear bomb production as programme moves further ahead of schedule]()
US speeds up B61-13 nuclear bomb production as programme moves further ahead of schedule
The US government plans to accelerate production even further after achieving key B61-13 milestones months ahead of schedule, as the programme advances amid growing US-China strategic competition.
