QinetiQ's Diver Reconnaissance System is ideal for shallow littoral waters

An underwater navigation and search system to increase the effectiveness of mine clearance divers is being exhibited at UDT Europe. The Diver Reconnaissance System (DRS) developed by QinetiQ, the global defence and security experts, is set to play a significant role in mines counter measures (MCM) operations, particularly those conducted in shallow littoral waters.

Incorporating a high frequency, forward looking sonar search capability with highly accurate navigation technologies, a data recording facility and user-friendly display, the DRS addresses a number of issues that currently hamper the effectiveness of divers in MCM operations. Traditional diver rope search techniques are man intensive, time consuming and difficult to conduct, particularly in tide.

Tim Sharman, QinetiQ's DRS Programme Manager, said: "We are excited by the potential of the DRS. Conducting mine clearance operations in littoral waters provides a range of tough challenges and our system has been designed specifically for this difficult environment. It also has scope to bring benefit to a wide range of civil and commercial diving environments, including police, oil and gas, salvage and archaeological."

In recent years emphasis in the development of MCM systems has changed to reflect the littoral water mine threat, in particular the threat to an amphibious landing or entry to a port. Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) are playing an increasing role in these types of operation. However, there are situations where preference is still for a specialist diver and QinetiQ's DRS provides the MCM commander with increased flexibility to pursue that option.

The DRS is based on a handheld swimboard concept and incorporates a fully functioning microprocessor which can receive various sensor data and log and display mission
information. The diver has full control over the system functions by means of underwater mouse controls fitted into the handles.

QinetiQ has drawn on expertise from its unique Centre for Human Sciences to develop a visual display that is easy to interpret by the diver. This design is key to enabling the diver to effectively undertake both underwater navigation and search tasks. Display formats other than visual could also be used, including tactile information displays that rely on vibration through the DRS handles.

With the option to combine data acquired by the DRS with that obtained from larger MCM vessels and UUVs, a commander is provided with a truly accurate survey of a large area of seabed, including the surf zone.
To learn more about QinetiQ technologies visit Stand 72/73 at UTD Europe.