Qinetiq and Thales UK have been jointly awarded an initial £1.7m research contract by the MoD to demonstrate techniques for use with Tactical Air Battlespace Management Systems to identify and track targets.
The contract to enhance airborne C4ISTAR tracking systems, is an example of how the former government-owned research agency is forming links with commercial companies such as Thales UK in order to find commercial applications of its technology.
“This programme is an excellent example of the closer relationships we are forging with industry to deliver real value and benefit to MoD,” explained Peter Baynham, MD of Qinetiq's Command & Intelligence Systems.
Qinetiq will lead on the initial research phase and the intention is for Thales UK to lead on the implementation once the concepts are proven. Both companies are sharing the upfront risks and both are involved and benefit throughout the full integration.
Richard Deakin, MD of Thales UK's aerospace business said: “We see the potential to apply our skills to a broad range of future C4ISTAR programmes.”