Sentinel Robotics Solutions (SRS) Group recently demonstrated a fully integrated communications network during the Port Security and Emergency Response Pilot Project in Hampton Roads. The network increased the capability and utilization of unmanned vehicle systems, proving to be robust, efficient, and flexible enough to support various unmanned vehicle systems. This technology can enhance communication and coordination within teams, with real-time situational awareness, and can be deployed in complex urban and maritime environments.
SRS deploys an IP-based command and control mesh communication network manufactured by Silvus Technologies
SRS, based in Wallops Island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, has deployed an Internet Protocol (IP)-based command and control mesh communications network manufactured by Silvus Technologies. The mesh network transmits high-fidelity voice, high-definition video streaming, and high-bandwidth data, enabling improved communication and coordination with real-time situational awareness in the complex urban and maritime settings at the Port of Virginia.
The network transmits high-fidelity voice, high-definition video streams, and high-bandwidth data to improve communication and coordination, with real-time situational awareness
The network demonstrated impressive results during the Port Security and Emergency Response Pilot Project in Hampton Roads, where it was utilized for unmanned vehicle systems. The use of a mesh network allowed for unmanned systems to operate with improved communication and coordination, which increased efficiency and effectiveness in Port Security and Emergency Response situations. The network transmitted high-fidelity voice, high-definition video streaming, and high-bandwidth data, creating a seamless interface for the unmanned vehicle systems.
Unmanned vehicle systems require a robust communication network to operate
“Unmanned vehicle systems depend on a robust communications network to be operational,” said Tracy Tynan, the director of the Unmanned Systems Center at VIPC. The demonstration by SRS has reinforced the importance of a strong and dependable communications network for operating unmanned vehicle systems.
SRS supports first responders during widespread incidents by demonstrating the need for a self-sufficient and dedicated communications network.
“SRS demonstrated the need for a self-sufficient, dedicated communications network to support first responders during widespread incidents when traditional networks may not be available,” Tynan said. SRS’s demonstration has highlighted the importance of having a backup communication network in situations where traditional networks may not be available.
SRS utilizes the communications network for a variety of surveillance and control nodes that the company has developed
During the demonstration, SRS utilized the communications network to operate an assortment of surveillance and control nodes the company had developed. The use of the communications network allowed the nodes to operate with increased efficiency and precision. As the surveillance and control nodes played a critical role in the success of the project, the stable and reliable network was fundamental to their operation and management.
A tethered aerostat was equipped with a Silvus handset to establish a communication relay node and increase the coverage area of the network
Additionally, during the demonstration, a tethered aerostat was equipped with a Silvus handset. The aerostat was used to establish a communication relay node to increase the network’s coverage area. This extension allowed the unmanned vehicle system to cover a more substantial range of the surveillance area, increasing the safety and security of the port.
The Center for Naval Analyses (CNA) will publish a report analyzing the benefits of technology demonstrations
The Center for Naval Analyses (CNA), a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) headquartered in Arlington that provides research, analysis, and advice to the United States Navy, Marine Corps and Department of Defense, will publish a report analyzing the benefits of technology demonstrations. The report will be a testament to the efficiency and reliability of the communications network, which can support various unmanned vehicle systems in complex environments.
The report is anticipated to be released this summer
CNA anticipates releasing the report this summer. It is expected to highlight the technological advancements in unmanned vehicle system communication networks and reinforce the need for self-sufficient, dedicated communication networks to support first responders in emergencies.
“It’s impressive that many of these solutions were developed in Virginia, which further demonstrates the state’s leadership in unmanned systems technology,” said Dr. David Bowles, the director of the Virginia Space Authority (VISA). SRS’s demonstration has shown the importance of robust and reliable communication networks in unmanned vehicle systems. The technology has proven to be efficient and flexible enough to support the demands of complex urban and maritime environments. With CNA’s report expected later this summer, we can only anticipate the advancement and sophistication of unmanned vehicle systems communication networks.