-
VEMS and MERS
With considerable expertise in mine warfare technology and operations, the BAE Systems Integrated System Technologies range of market-leading solutions provides complete systems for the training and assessment of MCM forces.
Versatile Exercise Mine System (VEMS)
The Versatile Exercise Mine System is a training and assessment tool for MCM forces. In service in a number of navies worldwide including the US Navy and the UK Royal Navy, VEMS is designed specifically to simulate the fire-control mechanisms of known threat mines.
For accuracy of threat simulation, VEMS comprehensive training and assessment provides:
- signature measurement and minefield planning
- threat within exercise mines for correct response
- data gathering and analysis for performance measurement.
MCM Evaluation and Range System (MERS)
The MCM Evaluation and Range System is a mobile cable-less multi-influence range for measuring the underwater signature of co-operative and non-co-operative vessels and to influence mine sweeping systems.
Building on the functionality of VEMS, the MERS is a dual-role system that includes evaluation mines for the assessment and training of MCM forces. An organic system that can be operated from the host MCM vessel, MERS is suitable for forward area use and is designed for rapid deployment, recovery and turnaround on deck.
The MERS sensor array is formed of three sensor bodies for signature movement, designed for accurate measurement of multi-influence signatures. These are capable of emulating the fire control mechanism of known threat mines, in real time. Each sensor body is fitted with an Intel 486 based processor with multiple Motorola 56000 Series digital signal processors. An acoustic link allows communication with the sensor bodies on the sea bed, indicating simulated mine fires in real-time.
Signature modelling software enables the three-dimensional influence fields of the ship to be modelled using data measured on a single ship transit. These models enable prediction of the ship’s fields at different depths and distances.
Evaluation Mines
Exercise mines in a variety of configurations can be supplied as fully instrumented evaluation mines or “dumb” mine hunting targets. All exercise mines contain self-recovery systems allowing them to be recovered by acoustic command, without divers.
MCM training and assessment solutions
The MERS analysis tools enable assessment of three areas of MCM performance:
• level of damage to the ship, drone or off-board equipment following simulated mine fire
• performance probability of each MCM unit in terms of detection or actuation, correct classification of disposal, time taken and coverage range
• performance of MCM force as a whole, predominately in terms of reduction of minefield threat to target ships.
TRAINING
MCM forces face an increasingly difficult challenge with large numbers of mines of increasing sophistication.
In today’s climate, the optimum method of ensuring sufficient training and performance analysis in as near a live scenario as possible is to operate in an exercise minefield that accurately simulates a real minefield. Analysis of the results will then identify areas requiring further development or training, ensuring your MCM force remains at the top of their game to provide a professional and accurate response to a threat.
PLANNING AND THREAT SIMULATION
For accuracy and validity of exercise performance results, it is essential to correctly plan the location of the mines. The Mine Response Simulation (MRS) software package predicts the actuation range of a mine against a specified ship’s signature. This enables an adjustment of sensitivity to match actuation and damage ranges for the exercise target.
MINE SWEEPING
With over 30-years operational and technical support experience to the UK Royal Navy, we offer proven mine sweeping technology to suit all requirements.
