Leonardo Unveils Cutting-Edge DSS-IRST Technology at Euronaval
On the occasion of the Euronaval exhibition, occurring in Paris, France, from October 18 to 21, 2022, Leonardo has unveiled its new electro-optical system designed to safeguard naval assets from various threats.
The innovative system is designated DSS-IRST (Distributed Static Staring-InfraRed Search and Tracking System), a cutting-edge technology crafted by the company to equip larger naval units, such as the Italian Navy’s latest LHD “Trieste” and Pattugliatori Polivalenti d’Altrura (PPA), with advanced capabilities and performance for addressing multiple, long and short-range surface, missile, and airborne threats along coastal regions (Littoral) and in open waters (Blue Water).
In addition to meeting the criteria of a conventional IRST system, the modular design of Leonardo’s new solution offers genuine 360° coverage by employing four mechanically stabilized, static (non-rotating) Search Head Units (SHUs). Lightweight and compact, these SHUs provide high-resolution capabilities, with an azimuthal range of 90° each. The next-generation IRST also incorporates three additional electro-optical (EO) Directional Head Units (DHUs) for the validation of detected traces – a feature that helps the system reduce the False Alarm Rate, identify targets, and, with the assistance of the SHUs, also facilitate active and passive distance measurement.
More specifically, leveraging advanced hardware and software innovations developed through Leonardo’s continuous investments in key areas such as Artificial Intelligence, autonomous technologies, big data analytics, and information management, the DSS-IRST is capable of concurrently detecting and tracking symmetric (e.g., sea-skimming missiles) and asymmetric (e.g., MPADS, small vessels) targets, automatically selecting the optimal algorithm for each unique scenario.
The DSS-IRST has been crafted as a primary asset for navigational and maritime situational awareness, even when the vessel it’s mounted on operates in silent mode (EMCON). In fact, during such operations, the system can deliver 360° IR panoramic, HD video imagery with cinematic-quality resolution (frame rate), around the clock, while simultaneously retaining the capability to detect and track multiple targets and produce CMS traces in 3D, facilitated by its passive target distance measurement (Passive Ranging) function. Additionally, with the capability to adjust the elevation of the SHUs, the DSS-IRST can also be utilized for Search and Rescue (SAR) or anti-intrusion Harbor Surveillance missions.
In addition to the four Search Head Units and Directional Head Units, Leonardo’s Distributed Static Staring-InfraRed Search and Tracking System primarily includes two Data and Video Management Units and an optional Local Console Unit. In its standard configuration, the system integrates seamlessly with a ship’s Combat Management System (CMS) and has been specifically engineered to cater to the new multi-domain demands of naval forces.
Leonardo stands at the forefront of Electro-Optical technologies and systems, delivering high-performance products tailored to the most stringent customer requirements globally. This leadership is grounded in the company’s extensive research and manufacturing expertise in the core elements of an EO system, including infrared detectors, stabilized EO directors, and image processing algorithms. The company boasts substantial integration proficiency in installing EO products on naval vessels, land platforms, and avionic systems.
Leonardo’s comprehensive solutions for the naval sector encompass command & control systems, weapon systems, sensors, underwater technologies, optronic systems, maritime communication solutions, aircraft, helicopters, unmanned vehicles, and space communication. Through its technologies, Leonardo fulfills all mission requirements for any class, type, and tonnage of ships.
Leonardo, a prominent global high-tech enterprise, ranks among the leading players in Aerospace, Defense, and Security and is Italy’s principal industrial entity. Structured into five business divisions, Leonardo maintains a significant industrial footprint in Italy, the United Kingdom, Poland, and the USA, where it operates through subsidiaries, including Leonardo DRS (defense electronics), and joint ventures and collaborations with ATR, MBDA, Telespazio, Thales Alenia Space, and Avio.
Leonardo competes in the most critical international markets by leveraging its areas of technological and product superiority (Helicopters, Aircraft, Aerostructures, Electronics, Cyber & Security Solutions, and Space). In 2021, Leonardo reported consolidated revenues of €14.1 billion and allocated €1.8 billion for Research and Development.
