IMWTS26 US we 1440

Introduction and Overview

Speaker Introduction

• Jeff Barkowski introduces himself and acknowledges the absence of CTO Dave Sheay, who was supposed to present. He humorously mentions borrowing slides for the presentation.

Presentation Topics

• The presentation will cover three main topics: a corporate update on Kraken, recent AUV and towed SAS integrations, and new circular SAS capabilities for man-portable vehicles.

Corporate Update on Kraken

Acquisition of Coalia Group

• Kraken is acquiring Coalia Group, which owns several companies including SonDerdine and Wavefront. This acquisition expands their workforce to 1,200 employees across 25 facilities with significant production capabilities.

US Operations

• In the U.S., Kraken operates as Kraken Defense Systems based in Longmont, Colorado, focusing on sales, support, engineering, and manufacturing for U.S. customers.

Combined Portfolio Overview

Product Offerings

• The combined portfolio includes various systems from both companies: Kraken's towed ALARS systems alongside Coalia's acoustic positioning and diver detection technologies.

Integration Capabilities

Sensor Integration

• Clarification that while they are not building an AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle), their systems can integrate with existing AUV platforms providing comprehensive sensor solutions like NAV comms and power systems.

Current Platforms Supported

• Mentioned platforms include Anderero LD/XL UUV, Euro Atlas Grey Shark, Teledyne Gavia among others showcasing versatility across different generations of vehicles.

Recent Integrations

Man-portable SAS Payload

• Introduction of a modular payload designed for retrofitting existing vehicles offering high-resolution imaging capabilities with varying operational times depending on vehicle type (3–10 hours).

Historical Context

• Jeff shares a personal anecdote about discussions dating back to 2017 regarding integrating Kraken’s SAS technology into MOD1 vehicles highlighting initial skepticism but eventual success due to belief in innovation by key individuals like Rob Simmons.

Current Navy Integrations

Ongoing Testing

• Updates on ongoing testing with various military units including CESASS for Lionfish MOD3 and EOD MOU unit 5 collaborations indicating active engagement in defense operations globally.

Towed SAS Developments

Catfish System Features

• Description of the Catfish system built on wet flood architecture allowing onboard servicing without returning it to Kraken post-delivery; emphasizing customer autonomy in maintenance processes.

Recent USV Integrations

• Highlighting successful integrations with Royal Navy’s ARSims USVs demonstrating adaptability across different vessel types including larger manned or unmanned vessels through ISO20 Lars configurations.

Full-size Naval Installations

Notable Integrations

• Showcasing installations such as Danish Navy MSF class vessels where flexibility allows integration over mine-laying railways depending on mission requirements illustrating operational versatility of their systems.

Circular SAS Technology

Background Information

• Explanation of traditional sidescan sonar limitations contrasted with Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS), emphasizing how multiple pings synthesize longer apertures maintaining constant resolution across ranges enhancing image quality significantly compared to conventional methods.

Circular SAS Design

• Introduction of MAN portable CASASS designed for quick deployment; available in multiple configurations catering to diverse operational needs while ensuring high-quality imaging through innovative dual-frequency transducer setups improving data collection efficiency during missions.

Image Processing Techniques

• Discussion around processing techniques that enhance target identification using simultaneous dual frequency outputs leading to improved detection accuracy during missions reducing overall timelines significantly compared to traditional methods.

Operational Efficiency Gains

• Emphasis on how these advancements allow single missions capable of detecting and identifying targets efficiently within reduced timeframes compared to standard procedures enhancing operational effectiveness in maritime environments.

Conclusion Remarks

• Closing thoughts reflect excitement about future developments following integration between Kraken and Coalia Group hinting at positive outcomes ahead while inviting attendees for further discussions post-presentation showcasing openness towards collaboration moving forward.