RMS TDP Completes Build 2 Trials

The Remote Minehunting System Technology Demonstration Project has just completed its major Build 2 trial. The trial, the second of three trials planned, was based out of CFB Esquimalt from April 8 - 19/02 and marked the successful culmination of the collaborative efforts of DRDC - Atlantic, MDA Associates, ISE Research, MOG4, QHM Esquimalt, NUWC/Keyport, and FDU(P). The primary objective of the trial was to gather extensive side scan sonar imagery of deployed bottom and moored mine shapes. This data will subsequently be used in the development and training of computer aided detection and classification algorithms in the RMS TDP. Secondary trial objectives consisted of evaluating the performance of the following subsystems: a novel inverted short baseline positioning system; a +45 Mbps high bandwidth radio communication link; a towfish based inertial navigation system; and, a containerized command and control center consisting of a sonar display and analysis console, a tactical picture display, and a command and control console for the remotely piloted minehunting vehicle.

During the two weeks of trials: over 50 Gbytes of sonar data was collected; geocoded mosaics were used to locate the mine shapes; Adm. Fraser, Capt(N) Pile, Capt(N) Harrison, and MOG4 staff were briefed on the RMS TDP; and the system even participated in a search and rescue off Race Rocks near Victoria.

The RMS TDP is a $10M, 3 year project whose objective is to advise the Canadian Forces on the way-ahead for Remote Minehunting using semi-submersible technology. The project is scheduled to be complete on April 30, 2003.

Briefing Adm. Fraser on YDT Sooke.

Launching RMS TD in CFB Esquimalt.

Consoles in RMTC.