The Centre of Defence Enterprise (CDE) is hosting 2 seminars on “Personal Robotics Support Vehicle" from 09:30 and “Lightweight Soldier Weapon System” from 13:30 on 23rd April 2009 at the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus.
The CDE is the Ministry of Defence's new gateway for UK science and technology industry, academia and innovators to help ensure that the Armed Forces have access to the best equipment, science and technology, now and in the future. The Centre provides a quick first response to ideas with a range of advice, assistance and research funding.
The CDE are calling for proposals in two specific areas as part of the “Reducing the Burden on the Dismounted Soldier Capability Vision (CV)”, see the Defence Technology Plan on the MoD website for more details on the wider CV programme. On 23 April they present two separate seminars on these topics.
0930-1230 Personal Robotic Support Vehicle is a system that can follow an Infantry Section (8 soldiers) and can carry some of their equipment (i.e. has the same mobility and can go to the same places). Creative ideas that will provide additional functionality should also be included, for example:
- Fire support
- Logistics carriage
- Autonomous route following
- Casualty evacuation
1330-1630Lightweight Soldier Weapon System can reduce the burden through the use of novel technologies and materials that reduce the weight of the small arms (weapons) and ammunition carried by an Infantry Section (8 Soldiers).
For both calls the CDE will award a number of contracts to demonstrate the proof of principle (PoP) of innovative technologies and innovative applications of technology. For the Personal Robotic Support Vehicle they are looking for ideas to improve the mobility and support for an infantry section. For the Lightweight Soldier Weapon System they seek ways to significantly reduce system weight and improve the firepower of the Section.
These subjects cover a wide range of topics across robotics, materials, vehicles, energy, human factors, ammunition and weapons.
The total budget for Personal Robotics Support Vehicle and Lightweight Soldier Weapon System calls is £200k each. Proposals for these short focussed demonstrations need to be submitted to CDE by 4th June 2009. Successful proposals will get a contract award within a few weeks for demonstration of their proof of principle within 3-4 months after contract award. Submissions for each call will be considered separately and on individual merits.
A networking lunch will be available between 1230 and 1330 and there will also be an opportunity to learn about the Centre for Defence Enterprise and the Ministry of Defence. You must register for each seminar separately and spaces are strictly limited. Early application is advised via the CDE website. Confirmation of attendance along with joining instructions and directions will be sent once registration has closed. MoD does not charge for attendance at CDE seminars.