PacTec develops SPIN prototype
PacTec has developed a prototype personal radio-locator system called Squad Positioning Intelligence Network (SPIN) for dismounted soldiers, the UK Ministry of Defence announced on 19 April. The system is being developed with the support of the Centre for Defence Enterprise (CDE).
SPIN runs on a self-aware network (SAN) where all members of the SAN are aware of each other’s location. It is designed to operate in buildings or GPS-denied areas - an important capability when considering that individual geolocation will likely form an integral part of next-generation military communication, navigation and command and control systems.
The technology could lead to more reliable, secure and robust personal communication, navigation and situational infrastructure to support the soldier in the field.
Paul McCormack, managing director, PacTec, said: ‘CDE support and financial assistance has provided industry-standard endorsement for our technology, it has ensured that our technology and expertise is visible and that our route-to-market has been greatly enhanced. In short, CDE has provided us with a Kitemark for our product.’
Further development of SPIN will concentrate on direction-facing and personal awareness functions together with voice and grid reference data. Potential applications of the technology could include mobile search-and-secure tasks in anti-terrorist and urban warfare operations.
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