Highly integrated electronic systems within combat vehicles make electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing essential before armored vehicles can be put into action. To expand its EMC measurement capabilities, Hanwha Defence Australia (HDA) has selected Rohde & Schwarz to provide a turnkey EMC test system for electromagnetic environmental effects (E3) testing at its Hanwha Armoured vehicle Centre of Excellence (H-ACE) located near Geelong in Victoria, Australia. The test systems include the R&S ESW series of electromagnetic interference (EMI) test receivers (see figure) with wide frequency coverage and dynamic range. At the site, HDA is building 30 Huntsman vehicles and 400 Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicles.
Managing Director of Rohde & Schwarz Australia, Gareth Evans, explained: “Rohde & Schwarz understands the complexity of modern combat platforms, where multiple integrated systems must work seamlessly to protect the platform. Even the slightest undetected interference between these onboard systems could profoundly impact a platform's combat effectiveness.” Evans added: “Our test solutions within the Hanwha E3 capability provide crucial electromagnetic interference/compatibility assurance, mitigating the impact of a contested and congested electromagnetic environment on the operational capability of military equipment, systems, and platforms and ensuring they are fully prepared for battlespace operations.”
In addition to supplying the test equipment, Rohde & Schwarz Australia will be responsible for training a technical workforce to operate the equipment and the facility. Acting Managing Director of HDA, Dean Michie, notes that the added measurement capabilities will serve many customers: “The EMI/EMC chamber at the H-ACE will support a world leading capability at our facility. We are looking forward to making use of the facility ourselves alongside offering the space to Defence and Defence Industry customers as a service.”
