THE CSIR

DOF SCIENCE ANDossier TECHNOLOGY FOR DEFENCE AND SECURITY

BIO-THREATS: Instant response Joining Understanding forces for the explosive threat growth and development ROBOTIC DESIGN RADAR AND ELECTRONIC AVIATION: THE GREAT WARFARE LABORATORY AUTOMATION DEBATE IN THE SKY INSIDE THE FOXHOLE OF COUNTER-POACHING

PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

AIR POWER | SOLDIER HEALTH AND SAFETY | MARITIME | CYBER | SPECIAL OPERATIONS Land-based defence: IN THEIR SHOES

What if? Experiments in reality...... 8 A behavioural science approach to strengthen military ranks...... 10 Withstanding the blast...... 12 Driving is believing...... 14 Thinking tank...... 15 Ready for a rapid response to Special Operational Force’s needs...... 16 “Halt! Who goes there!” Mobile wireless networks for connected soldiers...... 17 Rapidly real...... 18 Keeping it green...... 19 Power to operate...... 20 Moving about...... 21 Lighting to land...... 21 Plant biopharming offers rapid response to pandemic and bio-terror threats...... 22 Nutri-drink for mission readiness...... 23 Point-of-care diagnostics for infectious diseases...... 24 Technology-enabled healthcare...... 26 Medical care in resource-limited environments...... 28 1 CSIR & SAPS...... 30

Aerospace: SUPPORTING3 2A special report: STRATEGIC AIR FIGHTING FROM POWER THE FOXHOLE Wind tunnel testing: Relevant or relic?...... 50 Fast, faster, supersonic!...... 52 Longer endurance unmanned aerial systems...... 54 The mission area: A joint operation centre in Skukuza...... 33 Advanced gas turbines...... 55 Those who have been called...... 34 Infrared electronic warfare: Getting to know the enemy Connecting the dots in wildlife crime...... 37 on-screen first...... 56 UAVs in counter poaching...... 38 Flying machines: The great automation debate...... 57 Prevention is better than countering...... 40 Violent fluid shloshing...... 59 Canines to rhino rescue...... 40 Air-to-air missile development: Fighter pilots at the forefront...... 60 Tactical ranger trailer...... 41 Shake it off: Flutter excitation...... 61 Cmore: A super-advanced spyglass for Angle-of-attack indicator: Panacea for safe handling and enhanced modern security...... 42 performance?...... 62 Taking the guesswork out of gunshot detection...... 46 Better design of airport pavements...... 65 5 Maritime research: Electronic defence systems: THE BIG BLUE THE DETECTIVES4 Defending our seas ...... 91 Agility supports supremacy at sea ...... 92 Radar development: 70 years and counting ...... 67 Zama-zamas of the seas: Pasop! ...... 94 A short story on radar warning receivers ...... 70 No place to hide ...... 96 Aerostats: Taking a second look ...... 72 Radar technology and tracking of small boats at sea ...... 98 Inundu: Channeling the ingenious radar mimicry of the Optronic sensor systems in maritime domain awareness ...... 99 cunning tiger moth ...... 74 A simulator for safer landings on vessels ...... 100 Non-cooperative target recognition ...... 76 Augmented reality, not just for catching Pikachu ...... 101 Phased array development ...... 77 Sonar underwater monitoring and surveillance ...... 102 After 20 years: Still the pulse of national radar capability ...... 77 Numerical models contribute to safer fishing in False Bay ...... 103 SEWES exposes modern electronic warfare engagements ...... 78 Physical modelling for coastal engineering ...... 104 Passive radar research makes a comeback ...... 80 National satellite calibration and validation site ...... 81 Modern remote sensing: Synthetic aperture radar ...... 82 Beyond the radar: Making the most of measurements ...... 84 Building a stronger cyber intelligence network ...... 85 Network emulation and simulation virtual laboratory for About the CSIR IT security testing ...... 87 The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is Hacking 101 ...... 88 South Africa’s foremost R&D organisation and a strategic Social media ...... 89 national capability. It undertakes directed research and technology development across scientific domains Industrialisation: in areas specifically linked to social and industrial development. The main focus areas are defence and security, health, industry & advanced manufacturing, GROWING SOUTH the built environment and the natural environment, and energy. The CSIR is the biggest research council in Africa AFRICAN INDUSTRIES and its activities are supported by a variety of expert facilities and infrastructure, laboratories, virtual platforms Ready for take-off: Technology-based enterprises grown and instrumentation for testing and evaluation, design at the CSIR ...... 106 and technology experimentation. Small business: Opportunity on the radar ...... 108 Locally made printed circuit boards enter new space ...... 109 Key objectives for the CSIR are contributing towards Photonics prototyping facility ...... 110 technical skills development, healthy industrial growth, Robotics for rails, crops and mining ...... 112 and forging strategic relationships where the shared aim Supporting SMMEs in the biomanufacturing sector ...... 114 is a positive impact on people and nations. Avoiding risky business ...... 115 LENS shapes the future of local manufacturing of parts ...... 116 Aeroswift to revolutionise additive manufacturing ...... 117 Laser technology for biometric and biomedical applications .....118 Using national infrastructure for industry development ...... 120 Developing industry suppliers levels the playing field ...... 122 The South African Composites industry...... 123 6 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

JOINING FORCES

By Dr Rachel Chikwamba, CSIR Group Executive: Strategic Alliances and Communication

Science and technology has productive partnerships. National partnerships in By showcasing a sample a substantial and critical Combining our wisdom and government aid the efficiency of our work in defence role to play in the socio- experience, discoveries and of state. Partnerships in economic development lessons, amplifies the impact industry open doors to and security, the CSIR of any country. This is an we achieve in the improvement create new enterprises invites collaboration inspiring opportunity that of our societies and industries. in different sectors. from current and continues to drive the CSIR We share the imperative of International partnerships in its efforts to contribute contributing to the security new stakeholders. As create platforms for learning. towards improvement in of our countries. We also Partnerships in science fuel allies we can amass a the competitiveness and face similar adversaries in skills development and new considerable force in prosperity of South Africa fundamental challenges such and its people, and indeed as poverty, rapid population thinking. the advancement of growth and urbanisation, and people on the African science and innovation. continent. the associated pressure on infrastructure, natural resources, Science does not effect efficient service delivery change by itself. It requires and job creation. These are committed contributors, challenges that can be causal and – importantly – robust, to territorial disorder.

2 INTRODUCTION

FORCES FOR GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

By Erlank Pienaar, Acting Executive Director: CSIR Defence, Peace, Safety and Security

Technology is essential for and positive change and we have in government and growth and transformation of achieving improvement impact. Not only the direct industry in defence and security. the local defence sector. benefit of the utilisation of a and progress. particular technology, but also We are devoted to forming This is how we stand to mutually beneficial international contribute to the South African In the defence environment, to use technology development research and development knowledge economy of the technology development as a driver for growing skills partnerships within the future as we join forces to fight happens at a rapid pace, and stimulating the sector by framework of intergovernmental poverty and inequality. against significant stakes and to sparking new hi-tech enterprises agreements. severe standards of precision. and small businesses. This collection of articles is a From the hotbed of innovation, We are committed to gear small sample of the thinking We are proud of the these technologies are our technical pioneering of experts, innovators and increasingly finding their way accomplishments of towards stimulating business some of our partners in the into other fields of application our core of scientists, and providing platforms for field who live with technology decisions in their day-to-day – both civilian and commercial. engineers and entrepreneurs. The technical skills underpinning operations. It offers a glimpse technologists. Their these technologies need to We are inspired by the into what technology stands develop concurrently. ingenuity is our currency opportunity to use technology to achieve in government and to achieve impact. to grow the next generation of industry, the opportunities for The CSIR views science, scientists, engineers and new entrepreneurship and where our engineering and technology We are appreciative of the industry players to become future opportunities for impact as a gamemaker for progress strong collaborative networks leaders who will drive the lie.

3 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

Conflict doesn’t follow a predictable trajectory. It is a chaotic human activity that follows no rational process. To think we can fully predict the future battlespace, is naïve. We can assume it will be similar to the last war - or we could track the obvious trends. This is the habit of most militaries in order to uphold doctrine, tactics, techniques and procedures that were successful before. This traditional approach will no longer do. In the words of former US Secretary of Defence, Donald Rumsfeld: “We have to put aside the comfortable ways of thinking and planning, take risks and try new things so that we can prepare our forces to deter and defeat adversaries that have not yet emerged to challenge us.”

How then, do we equip ourselves for the unknown? How can technology development provide us with a means to have ‘a fighting chance’ in the future?

Military institutions have come Understandably, more R&D to understand the importance takes place in the civil of investment in R&D as one environment where commercial means to gain the upper hand. benefit is found. High Technological inequalities consumption of technology between adversaries can shape products leads to shortened the 21st century battlespace development cycles and and determine battle strategies. reduced costs. It has also The underdog must be more spurred demand for cutting- innovative, versatile, and - edge technologies to be easily importantly - adapt rapidly to available, reliable, convenient challenge the “technologically and efficient. Examples are superior” opponent. Adversaries Wi-Fi and several commercially- can gain an operational edge off-the-shelf (COTS) products based on how fast they move for connectivity, communication from defining the required and surveillance. technology to implementing it in As the human habitat theatre. underwent a ‘technofication’, READY However, historically, technology the modes of technology development cycles are lengthy, development and uptake have costly and resource intensive. also shifted. In fact, a root challenge to Despite challenges in the the military is the protracted AGILE planning processes – sometimes military ecosystem, the with horizons of 20 to 30 years, defence force needs to Technology involving changes to policy and ensure full exploitation resources. Capability acquisition of its technology projects are similarly conducted development in development capability to & over multi-year time spans. Long processes are typically costly ensure it is equipped for future forces processes. Subsequently, the operational campaigns of major technology breakthroughs today and tomorrow. and development projects have been left to deep-pocketed In addition, the commercial Article contributed by Mr Mthobisi Zondi, multinational corporations and industry provides opportunity Chief Defence Materiel, Department of Defence the more wealthy governments. for dual use technologies to go

4 INTRODUCTION

beyond the military into the civil The answer lies in the two Technology development: capabilities and co-funded, joint domain. Another opportunity dimensions of technology The strategic edge development programmes with is establishing commercial development, namely the allies. Allies across the system Technology development is a partnerships with industry attainment of operational of innovation are important systems effort that reduces risks players to expand the capability advantage and the achievement avenues for leading technology within the acquisition strategy. It and market involvement. of strategic independence. development. Consider the requires specific environmental benefits of having access to The technology edge has components: For example, The operational advantage blue sky research and in-depth shifted from rich armies to the the ability (skills, knowledge, means having the upper hand research at universities, the most innovative armies who expertise) to understand and an increased chance of evaluation and development at can adapt civil technologies success and protection of assets. capabilities of specific technologies, how best to apply independent science authorities to their military operations. Mission-centric technologies and operate them, and what – all the way through to the Unfortunately, adversaries are must be considered, technology innovative too. Adaptation of their underlying strengths and partners in technology transfer, life-cycles must be short and easily-available technologies weaknesses are. This includes commercialisation and uptake. development processes must is contributing to the changing evaluating technologies in terms be agile to match the volatile face of the threat. of performance, interoperability, Industry has a critical operational environment. cost and value-for-money before role to play in creating The quantum of the Coupled with this, the armed acquisition. an enabling environment challenge forces need to choose Technology development successful technology the niche technologies for Declining defence budgets have ultimately creates the ‘smart development. However, caused serious repercussions strategic independence and buyer’ approach. A smart industry would only for militaries the world over. invest in long-term technology buyer understands capabilities It has caused the erosion of development programmes from sub-systems level to the commit R&D resources defence industry capabilities, that will result in technology system-of-systems level – plus where clear market plus a diminishing capacity to demonstrators and technology ensures the capacity for life- uptake is evident. It support and maintain existing products that are ready for cycle management. A defence capabilities. Importantly, it has uptake by industry to support force should maintain adequate is therefore prudent also refocussed acquisition their participation in acquisition in-house capability that can that government works strategies away from ‘bespoke’ projects. at least assess operational with industry from the products towards adaptable and safety risks of technology COTS products which are Why is strategic products. onset to identify such usually also cheaper and faster independence important? opportunities. acquired. Another important component Strategic independence in this is agility. The dynamism and One approach could be a The match between defence context includes the ability to uncertainty of the prevailing network of smaller companies planning and capability apply capabilities to achieve battlespace demands a defence with high technical density acquisition is also important. national goals and preserve capacity that is agile, adaptable that are able to manufacture Currently there is no alignment national interests without and able to re-organise swiftly sophisticated technical between the acquisition dependence on or intervention according to instantaneous products rapidly and in small strategies and the ‘defence from third party states or entities; operational requirements. quantities. This supports the planning assumptions’, which Forces must be able to agile acquisition environment are based on defence threat Strategic independence affords generate capabilities to solve driven by prototype assessment. Forces acquire the country the freedom to an imminent security challenge production. Original equipment as and when needed, with capabilities based on the choose how, where, and when manufacturers should include immediacy. The practical ‘might’ they aspire to project. it applies its defence capabilities SMMEs in the supply chains response to the uncertainty and These end up collecting dust – while it enjoys the capacity to through complementary unpredictability of future conflict due to maintenance cost, lack support, operate and maintain collaborations that benefit a of suitably trained staffing and is institutional and operational such capabilities independently. sustainable defence industry. misfit with prevailing operational It creates opportunities to agility. Decision-making should requirements. generate intellectual property be decentralised to levels that Technology development is an at system or sub-system level of allow swift response with less area that can be leveraged Agile capability bureaucracy. technology products, and have to generate effective, suitable So, how do we visualise the the freedom to decide on how Financing is a serious challenge. and relevant capabilities to future technology development to utilise it. Once strategically Initiatives to reduce cost across deal with the asymmetric future process? How can technology essential technologies have the development life-cycle can combat scenario. This calls for development make our been defined and developed, assist. Examples include using agile and innovative institutions acquisition strategies more they need to be protected and civil technologies, customising that efficiently combine relevant and aligned to our safeguarded from falling into the and modifying COTS human acumen and the right mandate? wrong hands. technologies to be MOTS technology choices.

5 A special report:

DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 Land-based defence:

Landward operations are typified by a human-centric focus that The increasing availability of these technologies as commercial- has to show responsiveness and sensitivity towards the national off-the-shelf can be exploited by the military. However, the imperative, the needs of societies, communities and individuals. challenge would be to adapt and integrate these ‘commoditised’ With a duty such as this, land-based forces are no longer just a technologies to be fit-for-purpose, practical and effective. military component of the South African National Defence Force Ultimately, science, engineering and technology support is (SANDF) but an instrument of socio-economic development and required to achieve the balance between high-tech and low-tech peacekeeping in the country, the region and the larger African solutions and combinations thereof in a financially constrained continent. Great opportunity exists for close cooperation with environment. foreign national forces, and unprecedented levels of civil-military cooperation involving other government departments, foreign and The CSIR supports the approach of first understanding a local agencies, and the local civilian population. problem or need through scenario development and analysis, The key figure remains the soldier. A solder that is well educated working to develop the solution with operational concepts, and trained in the realities of the task, fit and healthy, skilled, architecture (processes, organisational and technical systems), disciplined and professional. Not only does this figure contribute effectiveness analysis and trade-off studies, as well as supporting to the power of the force, but also serves as a role model of implementation. The value of this approach lies in reduced competent leadership in civil society. risk through increased integration, more efficient, longer-lasting solutions due to more stringent consideration of options, and Key ‘hard core’ technologies will be required to improve the soldier’s situational awareness; night vision; man-portable innovation in security and operating concepts at an inter- drones; unattended ground sensors; data mining of other departmental level, plus architecture at a departmental level. battlefield sensors like UAVs; communications (including smart The complexity and dynamism of the future ‘battle space’ will phones); lethality that includes less-than-lethal means; the ability to call for fire support and designate targets to precision require a dynamic and responsive landward force. To this end, munitions; survivability through improved personal protection; the future landward force requires science, engineering and detection of Improvised Explosive Devices; battlefield medical technology support to ensure smart strategy, smart operations, support; sustainability through better rations, hydration and and a rightful place as a smart user and buyer. In short, have the power supplies; mobility and load reduction. power base to operate as a ‘smart force’.

6 IN THEIR SHOES

The complex realities of the landward operational threat environment include female and child soldiers, formal military forces, rebels, private security agencies, the occurrence of atrocities, genocide, terrorism, asymmetric warfare, famine, water scarcity, the scramble for precious minerals and resources, frustration and violence especially among the youth, refugees, illegal immigrants, natural and manmade disasters, civil disobedience, extremism, passive resistance, use of IEDs, to name a few. It is clear that our landward forces face an entirely new war. A war that requires combat on the one hand – and peace keeping and enforcement on the other. Yet, while the battle space has expanded considerably, resources – both human and financial – have not increased accordingly.

7 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 WHAT IF? Experiments in reality

For South Africa, border safeguarding entails the challenge of Improved border safeguarding requires close cooperation and an extensive borderline and several hundred ports of entry. The integration between a number of government departments borderline comprises approximately 2 798 km of coastline, responsible for defence, immigration and policing. Beyond 4 471 km of land border and over 1.2 million km2 of air space. safety and security, the phenomenon also has social, economic, There are approximately 730 registered airports of which 10 are education, health, transport and issues of migration. recognised international airports, more than 52 formal land border posts and 111 seaports. Rich in valuable, sought-after natural In the practical implementation of effective border control, assets (precious minerals and stones, rhino horn, abalone), located command, control, communications and surveillance technologies on an increasingly active trade route and with often non-existing, inefficient land border structures, the risk expands to economic are key components. With limited scope for technology investment, losses through piracy, poaching, smuggling, illegal entry and the the opportunity for novel and innovative thinking can lead to ways potential to unhinge regional safety and security. of doing more with what exists.

Data from aerial views, camera surveillance, called in on radio or cell and detected through sensors, are channelled through an interoperability gateway into a software system that gives the full border picture and can pinpoint incidents of concern. This means that improved surveillance – without sending armies of patrol staff – and the information as a deterrence mechanism or best-suited combatting tactics, is available to commanders.

8 IN THEIR SHOES

A practical and affordable conferencing and sharing of The centre allows for a flexible border safeguarding – with option is using an integrated remote computer desktops. environment with a strong interdepartmental participation, concept development and networking, multimedia and and supporting community experimentation process to Although not new tools in the server infrastructure in which policing forums and operations of surface optimal solutions. military environment, the key different information display the South African Police Service, is effective collaboration and This entails incorporating configurations can be easily and which also includes crowd-control synchronisation. The pivotal existing infrastructure, using quickly prepared to be used for concept demonstration. readily available surveillance requirement is the means to different experimental scenarios to technologies and ensuring better facilitate and enable inter- aid in better planning. It employs Smuggling, alien influx departmental collaboration. integration of different platforms. equipment and software platforms and illegal grazing across This implies the important that can support, display, Field experiments are conducted interplay between humans and analyse, integrate and interpret our borders are the results in border zones to rigorously processes – these also need to diverse sets of data quickly and of lacking or vandalised test the use of sensors, be interoperable for optimal and efficiently. fencing and insufficient communication mechanisms effective collaboration. capacity to deploy on and networks in combination. As an example, in counter- The ultimate aim is to manage Experimental poaching efforts, such an patrols. By combining defence scenarios a solution as an interoperable integrative ‘war room’ means various surveillance and brought to life officials and decision-makers can system that adds scope to detection technologies in the detection and provides instantly see collated data, for The CSIR’s concept development intelligence guide command instance on poaching incidents, integrated communication and evaluation centre becomes decisions and patrols. mapped out in near real-time with and command systems, the nerve centre of a mission when statistics such as how many rhinos various sources are integrated the CSIR works to assist The right ingredients were killed, how many shots into one, comprehensive view. its defence clients by and the right were fired, how many poachers Information from diverse systems such combination were caught as well as game expanding their ability to as radar, satellites and video feeds ranger and poacher movements. watch over our territories. Challenges are created to add acquired from unmanned aerial By integrating a large amount of to the stringent testing – these telemetry systems, communication information on a central platform, The CSIR works in a include geographic spread, smart devices, etc. can be displayed on patterns can also be analysed coalition with the South phone technology integrated screens to provide an invaluable and anticipated – for instance with other communication integrated overview of a defence identifying when poachers routinely African National Defence platforms. Technology options scenario. The centre is used for target a certain area or a specific Force and industry include use of unmanned aerial operations planning to create border part of a fence for easy access. partners in the testing systems capturing video views, security response strategies, centrally cellular telephone intercepts, monitoring counter-poaching efforts Other domains for and evaluation of suitable GPS jamming, video and audio and training. experimentation includes solutions.

9 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 A BEHAVIOURAL SCIENCE APPROACH TO STRENGTHEN MILITARY RANKS Article contributed by Adelai van Heerden, head of CSIR Behavioural Sciences research The field of psychology has never been more important to the military than it is today

People are at the centre of to combat operations such have been working closely people within specific groups all military efforts. People as counter-terrorism and with the South African and deploying informed, operate the weaponry and counterinsurgency operations, National Defence Force testable interventions on technology; they make the to lethal combat in responses for more than a decade. the ground, is central to life and death decisions to threats to national interests Through applied military managing modern conflict on that guard our way of life or threats found at multiple psychological research, the African continent. in so many aspects. With levels. Wide-ranging the focus is on an African The CSIR’s behavioural this in mind, military thinkers skills are required by the warrior expected to perform research develops methods are now starting to look at soldiers to fulfil their role diverse roles in highly stressful and solutions to assist the new approaches guided as peacekeepers, as they circumstances. Specific South African National by behavioural sciences to experience stress on various attention is paid to the Defence Force in identifying assist in ensuring the combat levels. prediction and understanding readiness of soldiers. of individual attributes candidates that show The challenge posed within and contextual factors that potential to succeed as The importance of having the South African behavioural contribute to success within qualifying soldiers early on soldiers with the right science domain has been the military environment. In in their training. The costs combinations of knowledge, to proactively work towards studying human attributes, involved in training military skills and abilities has combining theory building the importance of including candidates are high, with become critical in a context with practical knowledge studies of contextual factors significant resources being where, according to the application within the such as the influence of invested in each person 2015 South African Defence indigenous African context. national culture on an who signs up. The research Review, conventional and Only through the exploration of individual’s current behaviour focus is on organisational unconventional military contextually relevant research, is important, as the context (contextual) and individual operations will span the can there be impact. often determines how they processes including methods spectrum from participation view and approach the world of assessment, selection, in disaster relief and support Behavioural science around them. Consequently, instruction, development and to government departments researchers at the CSIR researching what motivates reinforcement of core soldier

10 IN THEIR SHOES

behavioural attributes, such as mental Of critical importance in the complex toughness and performance motivation. era of modern warfare on the African Work being conducted by the CSIR continent, will be effective interpersonal defence-related behavioural science During recruitment and training skills, such as cultural and emotional capability include: phases, attention is given to physical, intelligence, leadership, human psychological and contextual factors that relations and teamwork. In addition, • Creating an indigenous South may have an influence on a candidate’s technical, technological and tactical African approach to behavioural ability and will to succeed in adverse proficiency will always be important science research through the circumstances. Research is focused on attributes in addition to having numerical evaluation and development identifying the personal characteristics comprehension and problem-solving of psychometric and other associated with success during military skills. assessments, appropriate for South training, complemented by exploring the African populations; military candidates’ values, beliefs and The African philosophy of Ubuntu is frames of reference as these relate to famously explained as, “I am what I am • Selection, training and development intrinsic motivation and coping abilities. because of who we all are.” The good of soldiers; soldier in the modern era of war on the After the selection phase, the focus shifts African continent is an individual with • Career development and retention towards the individual and group levels a strong moral compass that can switch of soldiers; of analysis through research focused roles between being a defender of the • Psychological profiling, focusing on on specialised skills and abilities peace and an African warrior fighting matching personality dimensions that support soldiers’ military career for peace. Leadership and followership with role requirements; progress in terms of personal life skills inspire both individual effectiveness and group co-operation. The CSIR’s development, career development, • Investigating positive psychology behavioural science researchers apply leadership development as well as constructs in the context of resilience this principle from the perspective of financial planning and retirement measurement and training; planning. On the organisational level of focusing on all the important attributes that make up the whole individual analysis, relevant research is conducted • The development of leaders as while also developing teamwork skills. in support of contextual requirements. well as life skills development that In many ways, this life philosophy can enables the soldier to function What makes a good soldier? be applied to the camaraderie found effectively on individual, group and within the military organisational culture societal levels; and A good soldier will possess a balanced where the individual and the group are combination of personal characteristics interlinked during military operations, • The behavioural aspects of cyber that include cognitive as well as non- resulting in good soldiers becoming warfare. cognitive skills and abilities. great soldiers.

11 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

WITHSTANDING THE BLAST

In a war zone, improvised Transfer of Anti-personnel Mines. explosive events of net explosive where forces generated by an explosive devices (IEDs), land The treaty, known as the Ottawa content from less than 100 g, explosion do the most damage mines, grenade launchers and Treaty, has since been signed up to 50 kg in open air. and where better protection is anti-aircraft, anti-vehicle or by 162 nations. needed. anti-personnel devices are used Using a combination of for their effectiveness against their There are two common types high-speed or flash X-ray Buried blast threats are difficult target. A direct hit immobilises of landmines: anti-personnel photography and CSIR- to identify. Adding to the units faster than anything else. and anti-vehicle explosive developed test-rigs, such as the danger, is the fact that the soil devices. Researchers at the CSIR lower-leg impactor, researchers they are buried in enhances Unicef stated in an online specialise in studying the effects can study the effects of a blast the blast effects enormously. article that more than a million of these devices at a research event in up to a million frames Having the focused DBEL people have died since 1975 facility in South Africa’s Gauteng per second. Crash test dummies available in conjunction with from landmines detonating province. The Detonics, Ballistics (or ATDs – anthropomorphic test the specialised research beneath them. They estimate and Explosive Laboratory devices) are used as surrogates equipment and processes, the that landmines kill around 800 (DBEL) caters for the testing and for vehicle occupants and CSIR has launched a number of people per month, despite evaluation of vehicles, boots are fitted with data-collecting research activities into the effects these mines being outlawed and other protective gear that sensors that measure how the of soil on both concealing in the 1997 Convention on aim to reduce the damage done impact or shockwave of the the explosive threat and the the Prohibition of the Use, to people exposed to explosive explosion travel through the parameters that make the blast Stockpiling, Production and events. DBEL can handle ATD. Data collected indicate more effective. This leads to

The Emily blast chamber; previously a submarine hull.

12 IN THEIR SHOES

better protection, as well as and a fenced area for research and explosive ordinance A thorough knowledge and detection, which is ultimately into the effects of landmines disposal. A custom-built human understanding of explosives better. exposed to prolonged exposure shelter on site offers a safe is critical in developing to sunlight or soil. haven for clients and visitors technologies, systems and With the increased risk of from where the blasts can be doctrines needed to offer civilians and soldiers being Ballistic research is a fascinating viewed on video screens. effective protection. For exposed to extremist threats in career and many a young example, effective foot towns and cities, it is paramount chemical, electrical and A critical aspect of explosive protection when stepping to understand the effects of mechanical engineer have and ballistic impact research on a landmine may provide blasts in built-up areas. Emily, arrived at DBEL bright-eyed and protection is the ability a section of a decommissioned and ready to see some action to scientifically replicate both enough of a shield that the submarine hull, was modified (and learn a few things in the standard military threats as soldier will still survive the blast to offer the perfect conditions to process). As a state-of-the-art well as the ubiquitous and with a functioning knee joint study explosions that happen in training facility run by seasoned widely spread IEDs. DBEL has – vital when learning to walk confined spaces. professionals, it offers forces, the equipment and methods to with a surrogate leg. For this In addition to the larger such as the South African Police safely develop and test new reason, the CSIR has enhanced facilities, DBEL also caters Service and other special explosive threats and unique the infrastructure, data and for small arms and automatic operational forces, a controlled IED-type applications, as well capabilities to offer explosive grenade launchers, cubicles environment to test and train on as provide a range of validated threat and protection research for the testing of small charges, how to deal with IED disruption scientific surrogate threats. and development.

THE EXPLOSIVE THREAT: Studying the human response to an explosive event

SIIMA SIIMA is a Scientific Instrumented Impulse Measuring Apparatus used to measure the impulse generated by an explosive charge. Data collected from SIIMA are used to quantify the threats, characteristics and the protection capacity of the protection solutions under investigation; for example, the effect the depth of burial has on the impulsive loading the target will experience. Other variables studied include stand-off distance, the shape of the charge and the soil conditions. SIIMA is The primary threat to the human body is the overpressure from also used to compare the effectiveness of various protective the blast. It exists for a few milliseconds but can cause immense structures on a scaled level. damage to the internal organs. Soft, air-filled organs such as the lungs, ears and stomach, where tissues of differing densities meet, By understanding the mechanisms that actually cause the injury, are the most at risk. Exposure to an explosive event may cause and researching human tolerances that indicate how much the haemorrhaging and organ rupture. The second most dangerous human body can actually take, CSIR researchers can improve effect is the impulse that can propel a body into surrounding the design of vehicles or personal protection equipment aimed obstacles. The body is further exposed to loading caused by at reducing the damage humans suffer during blast events. velocity shock waves, structural impacts, and impulsive loading.

13 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

DRIVING IS BELIEVING: ENHANCED MOBILITY, FIREPOWER AND PROTECTION

To properly demonstrate of various defence-related onto the vehicle in the next three “To be clear, this is not a vehicle various applied technologies that have been to five years for testing and designed to replace any vehicle and will be developed at the demonstrations. in the South African National technology outputs CSIR. This includes technologies Defence Force fleet; nor does it and their value on the to enhance mobility, firepower “The LTD demonstrator platform compete with industry in terms battlefield, the CSIR and protection, soldier systems, is based on existing vehicle of being a military vehicle in autonomous vehicle systems and technologies and reflects a and of itself. It is primarily a is creating a test-bed other research. current six to eight-ton military mobile laboratory to evaluate, military vehicle called the vehicle to allow the South demonstrate and leverage “Seeing may be believing, but Landward Technology African National Defence technologies developed as when it comes to proving the Demonstrator, or LTD, Force to easily assimilate our a result of applied research value of enhanced landwards in protection and firepower technologies into their domain,” which promises to be a defence technologies and systems, soldier systems, says Malherbe. mean testing machine. capabilities, first-hand unmanned systems and various experience will trump ‘seeing’ The various ‘bolt-on’ aspects of mobility.” “Seeing is believing, as the every time. The LTD gives our technologies that will be fitted saying goes,” says Deon stakeholders the opportunity to Apart from being a mean onto the LTD could include Malherbe, chief designer of the drive in a vehicle that is actually machine in terms of CSIR camouflage research, LTD at the CSIR. outfitted with these systems.” demonstrating the value protection and firepower of enhanced landwards “We want to allow our major The mobility platform for the LTD research (including augmented technologies to the defence stakeholder, the South African has already been commissioned reality displays), and industry, the LTD will also add National Defence Force, to and various technologies that unmanned vehicle research value as a visible demonstrator physically experience the impact are in the pipeline will be fitted technologies. of the country’s innovative spirit.

14 IN THEIR SHOES THINKING TANK? Creating autonomous vehicle navigation on the battlefield

One of the primary long distances or across rough using only local sensors active identifiers, with plans to challenges in unmanned terrain. Currently, most of these such as cameras and inertial demonstrate the capability by systems primarily make use of measurement systems.” connecting it to a light military mobile ground systems is GPS, static radio frequency vehicle.” real-time path planning (RF) beacons or satellites to This sentiment is supported by a CSIR project manager, and navigation in the navigate. Broad Agency Announcement Nombulelo Soyifa says, “The absence of global of the USA Combating Terrorism “The problem is that in Technical Support Office, autonomous navigation research location information dangerous or hostile issued in February 2015, project is currently training such as a GPS. The CSIR environments, these systems where it requested international and developing researchers is developing such a could either be absent or can assistance in this area of to enhance scientific and system for potential use in often easily be compromised or research. technological capabilities.” The establishment of these military vehicles. disabled, and they also have very limited use indoors,” says “This is why the CSIR is capabilities will also allow the A lot of work is being done Danie de Villiers, a systems developing an advanced CSIR to support the strategic globally to develop vehicular engineer at the CSIR. autonomous navigation system. trajectory of the South African or robotic unmanned mobile The purpose of this project is National Defence Force, as ground systems that can, for “Reliance on these systems to demonstrate autonomous described in the 2014 Defence instance, navigate through is therefore undesirable and navigation of an unmanned Review, as far as using the best hazardous environments such as there is a global need for a ground vehicle using on-board that technological innovation earthquake rescue zones or that system capable of determining sensors only, without using GPS, can offer in pursuit of a safe can haul military equipment over accurate location information RF beacons or other external and secure South Africa.

15 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

READY FOR A RAPID RESPONSE to Special Operational Force’s needs The men and women in the Special Forces specifically. These As an example, the CSIR formal engineering and design armed forces form the rapier of tasks have to be completed was tasked to assist with the approach that is documented a nation’s defence muscle. At the within 24 to 72 hours and deployment of fully equipped and quality controlled. frontlines, operational efficiency typically require a customised, field stations, needed at the is key. This includes access to solid – yet cost-effective – time of the Soccer World Cup. Longer-term projects for the tools, tactics and technology solution to address an urgent These tented field command interventions to deploy, engage, force deployment need. centres needed to be such that the Special Forces typically respond, regroup and make rapid it could literally be packed The CSIR is able to support look at sustainment, decisions – tried and tested tools up, dispatched anywhere and these requirements not only due that are optimal for operational rapidly erected – including custom weaponry and to its ready engineering and scenarios. No guessing. the required command and technical capability, but also equipment. A power pack communication infrastructure A changing theatre of war because of its understanding of such as screens, projection that charges multiple means changing the arsenal the importance of confidentiality equipment, etc. The solution? of technology options and on work performed for the devices is one example. Custom-made suitcasing and approaches. This is innovation SANDF. Hardly any of the rigging, still used by operators The mantra is: every with urgency. project achievements can be for deployment anywhere, any publicly disclosed. Deployments kilogramme of weight The special operations capability time. range from hostage situations, reduced, means one more of the South African Defence anti-piracy or poaching, to Despite the speed at which these Force enlists a particular brand litre of water to take safekeeping, rescue or other tasks have to be performed, the of soldier – able to operate military operations such as those CSIR follows a disciplined and along. under difficult and dangerous encountered on the circumstances. These operatives African continent. are carefully selected and rely on equipment of particular Requirements are wide sophistication and precision. ranging: from creating Often this requires customisation. a custom object by 3D Often the operational need printing, to mobility is extremely urgent. This is solutions such as the challenge to creativity, specialised GIS and invention and superfast product map data for smart development. phone, or adaptations to existing technology The CSIR performs a number of tools or weaponry so-called ‘quick reaction tasks’ – making it smaller, throughout the year for the South bigger, collapsible, African National Defence Force wearable, waterproof, (SANDF), and the South African airborne, limitless.

16 IN THEIR SHOES

‘Halt! Who goes there!’ Mobile wireless field networks for connected soldiers

As part of its Soldier to set up traditional fixed WiFi Technology Integration infrastructure,” said Danie de Villiers, a Systems Engineer for project, the CSIR is the CSIR’s Soldier Technology creating peer-to-peer Integration project. wireless field network “The objective of this work systems that will enable is to study wireless network advanced early warning technologies and sensors and friend-or-foe and integrate appropriate identification for modern technologies into a system which can be used by a landwards soldiers. soldier, who becomes a node in The CSIR’s wireless mesh these networks. network topology developed for “At this stage we are industrial control and sensing, is investigating the possibilities a point-to-point or peer-to-peer of using these ad hoc network system which essentially creates technologies in the soldier an ad hoc, multi-hop wireless environment. From that, some network without the need for a prototype concepts will be central WiFi router. A node in developed and tested.” these networks can send and receive messages, and can The CSIR’s Soldier Technology also function as a router to relay Integration project is messages to its neighbours. used to test new soldier These networks, in other words, technology concepts by building communicate wirelessly without prototype systems. The CSIR a fixed infrastructure. mandate in this regard is to develop a capability to assist “As such, these wireless the soldier through requirement mesh networks have valuable analyses and the integration of potential applications for new technologies. The systems modern soldiers, including being and prototypes developed will able to instantly distinguish be transferred to the industry for between friend or foe, or the final development if accepted ability to create temporary base by the South African National protection in the field through Defence Force as the main early warning, without having client.

17 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

3D printing has a number of uses in quick reaction tasks, for example manufacturing custom parts or casings, and once-off products.

RAPIDLY REAL 3D printing is not a novel It also enhances the advanced bath; 3D printing, which uses How we work: technology any longer. mechanical engineering injection technology to create 1. Clients request specialised Much faster than manual capability, especially a thermos-plastic structure; and mehanical parts or electronic or numerically controlled when complex mechanical selective laser sintering that housings or fitting to be manufacturing, the process engineering solutions are uses a laser to fuse powder printed. is also more cost-effective, required. The designer can (nylon, polycarbonate, 2. The CSIR invents or formulates reduces labour cost and use direct manufacturing to polymer and metal). Because an idea of concept. increases turn-around time, produce the following: scaled colour terrain models are a 3. The CSIR creates a design models of actual structures, reduces material waste particular requirement of the using CAD software. terrains, areas, prototypes of associated with conventional client, the CSIR uses a 3D 4. The client and the CSIR team parts, actual items (if a small forms of manufacture, plus printer that uses colour ink review the design and upon volume is required and the lowers energy use, and allows jet technology. Similar to a agreement a prototype is material is acceptable), and for the design of unusual and normal printer that would print printed. as a high production volume 5. The prototype is more organic shapes and a photograph, this equipment input to investment casting (for prints layer after layer using a assembled and inspected, forms. patterns), injection moulds (for material that builds up on the improved or finalised. hard tooling), sand moulds, In the defence environment, previous layer of material. The 6. Delivered to client. and soft tooling (for cores). the technology is used for input into the printer has to scaled models of actual Direct manufacture comprises be created either in computer structures, terrains, areas, the stereolithography aided design software, or by prototypes of parts, small apparatus where a laser using a 3D scanner to capture volumes of items, patterns, sets a layer of wax or all dimensions of a particular moulds and tools. photosensitive material in a object or shape.

In the case of 3D terrain products, input data from GIS experts are used to recreate all aspects of an area, as well as any specific information required by the client, in colour.

18 IN THEIR SHOES Keeping it green

South Africa’s borders are as research into finding solutions diverse as the people who that protect both the soldier and live within them. The country the environment. Ranging from shares fences with six other the most basic solutions such as nations and has a massive air horns and mobile electric exclusive economic zone in the fences, to more advanced oceans surrounding it. The size, technologies. penetrability and ecological risks, among others, require Waste management partnerships between the forces A CSIR waste management tasked with securing the borders advisory committee was and those responsible for the formed in 2015 and its aim research and development is to assist the defence force’s of border safeguarding Environmental Management technologies. Office with waste management Such a partnership exists issues, specifically in matters between the Joint Operations relating to dismounted Division of the South African soldier deployment and National Defence Force upstream waste management. (SANDF) and the CSIR. Since its Multidisciplinary expertise establishment in 2010, the main provides waste management focus of the collaboration has advice and guidance, as well been operational border area as the development, testing and deployments. evaluation of custom technology solutions that will minimise the Projects vary from quick impact of long-term deployments reaction tasks that address in protected areas. immediate operational needs, to medium- and long-term solution Power management requirements. Power supply for deployed Sustainable use of natural soldiers to remote positions resources has a role to play remains a challenge as in improving the deployment equipment critical to mission conditions, capabilities and success, such as a GPS or effectiveness of the soldier, communication systems, needs deployed on mission-specific to be recharged. The CSIR has tasks, where combat systems developed several technologies are not suitable for these unique in this regard, one being Knowledge and experience gained will be applied to rolling deployment scenarios. ‘Muscle’, a power management system that uses available out advances to other areas of deployments, expanding Large areas of the South energy sources in the field, to green deployments and managing and improving the African border run through replenish equipment batteries. environmental footprint of SANDF deployments. Longer-term conservation areas, such as By using Muscle, a soldier is research will look at introducing cost savings by making small the Kruger National Park. able to recharge a radio using remote deployments completely self-sustainable. The CSIR will Soldiers deployed in these a vehicle battery, solar power, areas require protection from or power mains in countries with further increase the scope of waste management to include dangerous animals and the electrical outputs that differ from water purification and the management of waste water. CSIR has invested significant South African plugs.

19 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 POWER TO OPERATE

Muscle is a power management system Power management systems powered by internal that uses various sources of energy – mains require a holistic R&D batteries, this means carrying power, vehicle batteries, solar panels – to approach to fully understand different sets of batteries and charge battery packs that power electronic and optimise the power chain replenishment items. from the replenishers to the equipment in the field. The pack can support energy storage units, to the The CSIR’s Muscle, loads ranging from 10-32V. equipment to be powered. an integrated power Each item in this chain has management system reduces unique characteristics and the weight and space burden requirements. Each item must of the dismounted soldier be optimised for efficiency, significantly. It is also more performance, reliability and reliable and more versatile, safety. for example one solar panel The dismounted soldier’s could charge any of the equipment includes electronic equipment items. By testing equipment ranging from and evaluating energy radios to navigation and sources against the needs of situational awareness deployed forces, a fit-for- equipment. Typically purpose solution is found.

20 IN THEIR SHOES

MOVING ABOUT The operational requirements of the future African battle space present the South African National Defence Force with additional mobility challenges. Confronted with a battle space environment that varies from desert to water-rich surfaces, will challenge the defence force to provide support in operational scenarios such as peacekeeping, border security and disaster relief. Although the defence force will have to retain some conventional capability, balancing those requirements for operations other than war with those necessary to sustain a conventional capability, will be challenging.

LIGHTING TO LAND Codenamed ‘Candle’, a portable landing light system is rapidly set up to mark a drop zone or lay a landing strip – using either visible light or infrared, detectable only with night vision equipment. Light weight yet rugged, the system is operated remotely, either by a pilot or troops on the ground. Candle has been used in peacekeeping operations by pathfinding operatives who are dropped in areas where there is no landing strip.

The system consists of 12 lights, each fitted with a transmitter/receiver with a remote control effective up to 600 m and 200 m between lights. With six lights on either side, a landing strip of 1 000 m and longer can be marked out – space enough to land a transport aircraft the size of a Hercules.

21 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 PLANT BIOPHARMING OFFERS RAPID RESPONSE TO PANDEMIC AND BIO-TERROR THREATS

The world is on high alert with haemorrhagic fever-causing Plant biopharming is the vaccines have completed Phase the threat of infectious diseases pathogens, such as Ebola and expression of therapeutics II human clinical development. spreading through the entire zoonotic diseases are real and The US Department of Defence’s in plants. It is able to human population. Emerging present dangers. Defence Advanced Research global pandemics include produce large amounts of Projects Agency has invested At a global scale, there is a drug-resistant forms of protein in a short period heavily in plant-based antigen serious concern that should the tuberculosis, bird flu, swine expression technology as part of outbreaks turn into a full scale of time, which makes flu, super staph, severe acute its rapid response strategy. respiratory syndrome, drug- pandemic, there would be it the perfect solution resistant malaria and the desperate shortages of vaccines when a fast response The CSIR and its international and treatments to protect citizens. continuing major threat of to a pandemic disease collaborators have established HIV. The use of biological cutting-edge technologies to In response, governments have outbreak (or bio-terror weapons in hostile quarters is express functional therapeutics implemented strategies to also a threat not to be ignored. attacks) is needed. tackle these threats through the in plants. The consortium’s first Pathogens of concern include establishment of vaccine and product, an antibody product various forms of plague; Ebola; Biopharming can rapidly medicine stockpiles, as well against rabies, is undergoing anthrax; haemorrhagic fevers; produce preventative vaccines as installing infrastructure and preclinical development with and zoonotic diseases, such as and antidotes for those already capacity to rapidly make and highly positive indications Rift Valley fever. infected. deploy biologics to counter the to date. On the basis of Military personnel are threats. To adequately deal with The production of effective this model, the CSIR and its particularly vulnerable as they an outbreak, it is imperative bio-therapeutics in plants is no collaborators already have the form part of the first responder that capacity exists to model the longer the stuff of science fiction, capability of producing other team. For the South African disease spread, and to have but rather a reality with the first antibody antidotes and subunit defence forces operating in in place a strategic logistics high-value biopharmaceutical vaccines for diseases (such peacekeeping missions in plan for access to vaccines and products already on the market. as Ebola) for which antibody East, Central and West Africa, other therapeutics. Plant-based pandemic influenza therapy is viable.

22 IN THEIR SHOES

Nutri-drink for MISSION READINESS

A security force requires proper balanced nutrition for optimal physical performance and endurance. The CSIR has developed Nutri-drink, a nutritional drink formulated from a variety of leafy vegetables and indigenous gluten- free cereals and soya. It contains key nutrients required for physical stamina such as protein, iron, zinc and vitamin A. In addition, the drink alleviates hunger, and is high in energy and dietary fibre, which is important for healthy digestion.

Not requiring cooking, boiling or heating, Nutri-drink is the perfect meal on-the-go. It comes in a sachet of dry ingredients that is mixed with water.

23 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

POINT-OF-CARE

DIAGNOSTICS CSIR researcher Zandile Nxumalo holds a peripheral blood smear during the process of FOR INFECTIOUS capturing the morphology of the blood cells onto a digital pathology DISEASES database 24 IN THEIR SHOES

The diagnosis of diseases at the point-of-care, for example, at farms and nature reserves, reduces long-term testing costs, improves sample viability and minimises the need for cold chain storage and transport of samples. In most cases, it reduces the turnaround time of test results, which is pivotal in the event of a disease outbreak.

The CSIR has developed an isothermal polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology that enables complete point-of-care testing.

This gene-based technique outbreak is detected, relevant At least 60% of human diseases risk due to frequent travelling allows for disease authorities can be notified and are spread by animals and and deployment at various high- testing results made available about 75% of emerging risk borders. Moreover, many diagnosis from relatively as required. A streamlined infectious diseases are zoonotic biological agents can spread crude samples that can testing procedure will ensure in nature. The emerging threat rapidly once introduced into that crucial results are available of the ability of relatively be easily adapted for society. The adaptable point- when needed, with a significant unknown diseases to infect and the detection of a specific of-care diagnostics technology reduction in the risk of spread in humans highlights the can be applied to mitigate pathogen. misplaced test results. importance of having diagnostic technology that can be readily the risk of both common and The complete isothermal PCR The scope for this diagnostics modified and can be used to emerging disease outbreaks. technology includes a built-in technology is vast and can be detect at the point-of-care with a The military applications communications system, that adapted for the diagnosis of rapid turnaround time for results. instantly disseminates test results specific human diseases following also become a serious to a laboratory for verification basic method development and Sectors such as defence and consideration when and database storage. The relevant certification. The CSIR security can benefit greatly from dealing with the detection setup improves compliance has already developed testing the use of the PCR integrated and removes the possibility of methods to detect zoonotic diagnostics technology. Many of bio-warfare agents at testing bias. When a disease diseases, such as avian influenza. personnel in this sector are at the point-of-care.

Polymerase chain reaction technology has been optimised at the CSIR for the diagnosis of livestock diseases, such as foot-and-mouth disease.

25 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016 TECHNOLOGY- ENABLED HEALTHCARE

A spin-off application of this technology is the treatment of tumours by subjecting them to the intense heat with minimal damage to neighbouring tissue, unlike the damage encountered with radiation and chemo treatments. Due to the nature of sound waves, only the targeted region is exposed to the intense acoustic energy. Frequencies used are high so that precise control of the treatment region is possible and highly defined.

26 IN THEIR SHOES

CSIR CELLNOSTICS: ANALYSING CSIR NHLS DATABASE: BLOOD ON-SITE FOR QUICK IMPROVING THE TRAINING OF DIAGNOSIS PATHOLOGISTS

Diagnostic tools are required to identify the presence and The CSIR and the National Health Laboratory Service cause of a disease, to suggest potential treatments and (NHLS) have developed a national digital pathology to monitor the effects of interventions. When healthcare database which is being used to improve the training of centres are located far from centralised laboratories, the pathologists. It also extends expert pathology services to delays caused by transporting blood samples and test areas outside of major cities where specialists are mostly results may be detrimental to the quality of patient care. concentrated.

The South African public health system provides healthcare A CSIR NHLS team constructed a national digital services to the majority of its people. Many of its facilities pathology database containing 105 anonymous medical are in remote locations and some face serious resource case studies. For each of these case studies, an expert constraints, such as skills shortages and the lack of pathologist from the NHLS recorded the clinical features appropriate healthcare information at the point-of-care to and full blood counts of samples with detailed annolations facilitate diagnostic, treatment and referral decisions. that identify specific abnormalities. These database submissions were then reviewed by other experts to ensure To address some of these challenges, the CSIR developed that the information was accurate. a device to perform quick and effective on-site blood tests to reduce the time between tests and diagnosis and The database facilitates the training of pathologists, subsequent treatment. The portable, wireless blood analyser improves the number of accurate diagnoses in remote named Cellnostics has an embedded electronic device and under-resourced areas, and aids in reducing providing two-way communication between the clinic and referrals. It is an up-to-date ‘digital textbook’ of cellular central laboratory. Users receive results without having to pathology specifically relevant to South Africa’s disease transport blood samples from remote areas to a laboratory burden, which can be used as a reference database for for analysis. In addition to rapid blood-based diagnosis, comparing anomalies when detected. NHLS staff can use Cellnostics is designed to support other diagnostic the information to further educate themselves and increase equipment that can benefit from the two-way wireless their accuracy in future diagnoses. communication between healthcare workers and off-site specialists. The CSIR monitors the activity and usage of the database.

CSIR HIFU: HIGH INTENSITY, HIGH TEMPERATURE HEALING

Ultrasound technology has been in use in medical fields for both imaging and treatments for many years. Physiotherapy and the disintegration of kidney stones are just two examples of major relief for patients.

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is an exciting new application of ultrasound technology in the medical field. Now with advanced imaging and control, it is finding use in more precise targeted tissue procedures.

HIFU is based on high frequency, high energy sound radiation. International research has proven that HIFU technology, which uses a high-intensity ultrasonic beam, can stop internal bleeding successfully in a specific area. As a result, the temperature of this specific area is raised to above 70 °C.

Controlling internal bleeding of vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, spleen and arteries (deep tissue bleeding) has always been a challenge for medical personnel responding to an emergency or on the battlefield with almost no technology available to stabilise wounded soldiers or civilians. The current project, which is at conceptual demonstrator stage, can provide a means to stop bleeding in casualties in the ‘golden hour’ after a trauma. This is critical for life preservation and for limiting the blood loss and allowing time to evacuate the casualty from the scene to a more secure and prepared treatment centre.

The CSIR designed a unique transducer for the biomedical application of this technology making it suitable for use in the field. Moving out of the clinical environment and providing a portable solution suitable for casualty stabilisation has been a key driver of the project. Traditionally, researchers used a fixed focal length transducer using external water sacks to vary the depth of penetration according to the need – a rather clumsy and inaccurate approach. The CSIR’s HIFU demonstrator provides a very small footprint of energy at a controlled variable tissue depth which can then be used to precisely target specific areas.

27 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

MEDICAL CARE IN RESOURCE-LIMITED ENVIRONMENTS: Laser-based drug delivery within HIV infected cells

The use of femtosecond membrane on mammalian mammalian cells by such antiretroviral (ARV) drugs into laser pulses in the targeted cells with ultrashort laser photo-poration methods. It human immunodeficiency introduction of genetic matter pulses. These generate has also been demonstrated virus (HIV-1) infected cells and drugs into mammalian electrons that react photo- that it is possible to optically using femtosecond (fs) laser cells is escalating rapidly. chemically with the cell transfect mammalian cells pulses. The main objective of This novel optical technique membrane, lead to the via an axicon tipped optical this study is to optimise the in achieved through a tightly creation of transient pores fibre, thus opening the future vitro drug photo-translocation focused laser light beam is that allow entry of a vast prospect of coupling this parameters to allow future called photo-poration. variety of extracellular photo-poration methodology design of an efficient drug- media. For example, it with endoscopes for a host of delivery device with potential Briefly, the process has been recently shown in vivo applications. in in vivo drug delivery is described as the that gold nanoparticles applications for HIV-1. accumulation of numerous can be optically tweezed In the CSIR study, researchers Some applications include free electrons resulting to a desired location and specifically investigate in the development of a laser- from irradiating the plasma subsequently introduced into vitro targeted delivery of based drug-delivery patch

28 IN THEIR SHOES

for individuals working in developed to promote uptake resource limited environments, of foreign genes, drugs such as military personnel. and other macromolecules into living mammalian cells. The human immunodeficiency Each of these delivery virus still remains one of the systems carries specific world’s most serious health limitations. However, for both challenges even after years of in vitro as well as in vivo in-depth research. A positive procedures, a drug delivery and successful intervention in scheme possessing minimum the past decade uses powerful cytotoxicity, which can be new tools to prevent people applied under sterile tissue from becoming infected and culture protocols and can from dying from acquired offer targeted treatment of a immunodeficiency syndrome large number of individual (Aids)-related causes. This has cells, is highly desirable. led to a decline in the number of new reported infections Optical drug delivery globally, and a decline in techniques using a fs-laser the number of children dying light source satisfies these from Aids-related causes criteria. and acquiring HIV infection. However, national epidemics The most commonly used still arise in many parts of laser source in the area of the world, and the burden of laser-facilitated delivery the epidemic varies between is the fs-laser since it countries. emits extremely short pulses and has a broad Antiretroviral therapy, taken spectral range in the near orally, is the recommended infrared regime extending treatment of choice for HIV within the 700-1000 nm infection. The use of highly region. When focused to active antiretroviral therapy a diffraction limited spot, (Haart) as a combination fs-laser pulses possess high treatment prevents HIV from peak powers and sufficient replicating and destroying the photon density to trigger immune system, and therefore non-linear effects such as enables the body to fight off multi-photon absorption of opportunistic life-threatening infections, cancers, and also photons confined at the arrests HIV infection from laser beam focus. Therefore, advancing to Aids. Each employment of fs-laser pulses of the drugs used for Haart for optical drug delivery in has adverse drug reactions HIV-1 infected cells offers which may vary from one a high degree of spatial patient to another and even confinement of the deposited be severe in some patients. pulses leading to precise This sometimes leads to non- local disruptive effects at conformance to medication the targeted area and very which may further complicate minimum collateral damage. the prognosis of the illness. The research uses fs-laser The major challenge with pulses to facilitate targeted Haart is the inability to reach optical drug delivery into HIV-1 the viral reservoirs where infected cells. Additional the HIV-1 remains latent and benefits are that optical drug persistent, leading to inability delivery setups are non- to fully eradicate the virus. invasive and can be easily Various methods including integrated with other optical chemical, cationic polymers techniques such as confocal and lipids, viral, or physical laser scanning microscopy approaches have been and optical tweezer systems.

29 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 The future high-level R&D relationship between CSIR& SAPS

The CSIR’s role is to conduct science, research, technology and innovation in order to advance the wellbeing of the people of South Africa. Crime is an obvious challenge to the wellbeing of our people, communities and our economy. In keeping with that role – and with a track record in safety and security acquired over decades – the CSIR and the South African Police Services (SAPS) entered into a formal strategic agreement in 2013. The main driver is to provide the SAPS with access to the broad multidisciplinary skills base within the CSIR.

To further strengthen its technology-driven policing capabilities, the SAPS made the decision to amalgamate its R&D activities into a single, robust department.

30 IN THEIR SHOES

The South African Police Service (SAPS) deemed necessary to establish Division: Research and Development under the leadership of Divisional Commissioner: Lieutenant General (Dr) Bongiwe Zulu.

The main function of the Division is to determine the SAPS as well as designing and developing the new products and Research Agenda and facilitate research execution within the processes for the SAPS, which will enhance service delivery. SAPS. It focuses on the R&D matters with the purpose of: The relationship will inter alia assist in:

– Developing ideal policing systems, models and – Improving innovation and modernisation in policing. strategies. – Determining the relevance of new products before – Improving service delivery. development commences.

– Enhancing innovation and modernisation in the SAPS. – Determining ideal specifications for the proposed products. – Infusing professionalism in policing. – Designing and development of new products. The SAPS National Management Forum has recently adopted the SAPS Research Agenda for 2016-2020 which is premised – Validating that the developed products and processes on four pillars (Fig1). To institutionalise this Research Agenda, meet regulatory requirements. the SAPS will be working with different service providers including Tertiary institutions and NGOs. The SAPS will also be – Evaluating the return-on-investment on the SAPS assets utilising the existing Memorandum of Understanding with the and human resources with the aim of enhancing the SAPS CSIR to execute this Research Agenda. products and processes, as well as introducing the new solutions to solve the pre-identified problems in the SAPS. The R&D relationship between the CSIR and the SAPS will include the collaboration in conducting extensive research to The SAPS and the CSIR are both excited by this challenging support the review of the existing SAPS products and processes and brain teasing relationship.

RESEARCH PILLARS

SAPS RESEARCH AGENDA 2016-2020

Enabling Enabling Assets Better Service Building Resources for for Policing Delivery Ideal Policing Policing Systems

SAPS MOVES TOWARDS

31 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 A special report:

32 FIGHTING FROM THE FOXHOLE

A joint operation centre in Skukuza By Gen Johan Jooste (ret), Commanding Officer Special Projects

A few years ago, the intensity of as many as 80 ground actions were developed and applicable a data-driven model, which the campaign against poaching occurring at any one time. technologies applied. is used mainly for making in the Kruger National Park, These operations are supported predictions. necessitated the establishment by up to ten helicopter and Of specific note is the CSIR- of a ‘nerve centre’ for joint fixed wing aircraft sorties. All developed Cmore system that These systems are adding real operations and command and of this is well coordinated with serves as an innovative situation value and contributed to the awareness and decision-support control. This centre houses the neighbouring parks and other stabilisation of rhino losses. platform. It addresses the need Ranger Services, the South agencies in South Africa and For the first time in a decade, African Police Service and the Mozambique. for shared awareness among 2015 showed a downward South African National Defence users, through the consolidation trend in rhino slaughtering. The Force on a permanent basis, This task could not be executed of information from various and up to six other departments without empowered staff sensors and external systems, alliance between the CSIR and from time to time. The centre with access to technology. real-time analytics and the SANParks will ensure the further deals with an average of nine The required situational collaboration between multiple pursuance of the technology poaching incidents per day. awareness, well-packaged parties from various domains. roadmap that gave direction management information and to counter-poaching efforts in Joint operations are conducted means of communication is a In addition, the CSIR’s predictive 2013. This will ensure a joint over two million hectares, an prerequisite for proper planning modelling plays a significant operations centre operating as area roughly the size of Israel, and execution. That is why role to assist counter-poaching defending a thousand-kilometre the South African National units to deploy sensors and aware and wary as a fox – a boundary. Foot, vehicle and air Parks (SANParks) selected an manpower at the right time, at facility that lives up to its name, patrols are executed 24 hours alliance with the CSIR. From this the right place. This tool utilises Foxhole, always ready for any a day, seven days a week with alliance, customised solutions both a statistical model and contingency.

33 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 Those who have been CALLED

Article contributed by Elise Daffue, founder of StopRhinoPoaching.com

South Africa stands as the last over South Africa. Numerous As the years have passed could be a man earning stronghold for rhinos on the rhino initiatives – well-meaning, we have learned more about a legitimate wage – for African continent. The first rhino but fragmented – sprang to life. poachers and the organised war, affecting the southern Africa criminal networks that feed the example, an employee region, diminished in the early Correctly applied public funding illicit global wildlife trade, and of the reserve with inside 1980s but in 2008 new alarm boosted rhino protection with this knowledge has come knowledge – recruited by efforts; field rangers underwent bells started ringing in South the frightening realisation that those who profit from the Africa’s conservation circles. specialised training; security the enemy is far more sinister

strategies and emergency than could ever have been rich spoils of poaching. An unprecedented 83 rhinos had response plans were drafted; anticipated. More often than not he could be been poached for their horns, law enforcement efforts kicked a hardened criminal accustomed far more than in previous years. in; trust networks developed; A poaching syndicate is to committing aggressive acts 2009 saw this figure rise to 122 and while a shared sense of made up of a chain of of crime like vehicle hijacking, animals killed and, by 2010, dedication and urgency drove favouring the low-risk high-reward with the signs of the looming roleplayers forward it was clear individuals working within margins offered to a rhino rhino poaching crisis increasingly that the poachers were many a complex structure that is poacher. Organised crime thrives apparent, South Africa started to steps ahead. They simply moved ever evolving. in corrupt environments, which mobilise. to softer targets or changed their A rhino poacher can take is exactly why the syndicates tactics. A deep determination to ‘save many forms. He can be, have infiltrated almost all levels of the rhino’ took hold and while Since 2008 over 6 000 (known) as is often perceived, a society, as well our rhino reserves. reserves in the harder hit areas rhinos have been poached. In Be it by brute force (death threats poor member of a local started to fortify their defences to that time tens of millions of Rand to the individual or their families), protect their animals, a wave of have been invested into rhino community desperate to through blackmail, or through the public outcry and support swept security and protection initiatives. put food on the table. He lure of wealth, a rhino poacher

34 FIGHTING FROM THE FOXHOLE

It will be up to all of us to keep supporting our rhinos, and the men and women who feel duty bound to protect them.

can just as easily be a policeman risk of encountering aggressive to assess that spoor and call ensuring that the escalation of or even a ranger. The syndicates poaching groups who don’t it in, knowing that he has just incidents as seen in previous have woven their tentacles into hesitate to shoot on sight. committed himself and his team years has not re-occurred. the once sacred heart of those to hours of follow-up in the dark sworn to defend and protect. Poachers have the upper hand, with a possible shoot-out awaiting Right now, across a wide while the rangers are governed them at the end? What makes a spectrum of roleplayers and Conservation has always by strict rules of engagement and staff member on a reserve refuse amidst a complex web of been seen as a calling. Tough, a split second decision to pull the a bribe? What makes a law wannabe’s and people with either bush-wise rangers, weathered trigger could result in a murder enforcement officer stand up to corrupt or misguided intentions, by years of experience under docket being opened. To be a the pressures of a corrupt system? lies a group of individuals who the African sun, committed to ranger in a rhino reserve means What makes an investigator, or stand between our rhinos and conserving our wildlife heritage. that your life depends on the man prosecutor, or reserve manager, the poachers. They get along Brave men and women who covering your back, and it’s when or specialist consultant, or NGO, with what needs to be done in were once responsible for entire these individuals are exposed as or the little girl selling cupcakes to their quiet and humble way. They eco-systems now barely get to being involved, that the depth of save the rhino go that extra mile? remain true to their word and to focus on anything but the rhino. betrayal becomes an abyss. Something in our moral fibre, and the sanctity of trust, and it is these The cost to conservation has been a deep sense of duty. high, the cost to these individuals What makes a ranger, heading individuals who will ultimately even more so. Gone are the home after a day of patrolling, At the time of writing, rhino save the rhino. days of enjoying the bush, of a stop to assess a human track poaching has been stabilised sense of achievement, of family- crossing his path? He could just in South Africa. Although every It will be up to all of us to keep time or off days. The bush now as easily have turned a blind rhino life lost is one too many, supporting our rhinos, and the symbolises poachers, relentless eye, knowing that he is going and although these numbers men and women who feel duty incursions, dead rhinos, anti- home to his family and a warm remain high, huge efforts and bound to protect them…those poaching patrols and the daily bed. What makes him stop collaboration at every level is who have been called.

35 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

CONNECTING THE DOTS IN WILDLIFE CRIME

Integrated approaches to dealing with security

Complexity theory differentiates single actor or organisation. be changed. Furthermore, communities. As another between ‘complicated’ and The key is the integration of superficial collaboration ignores example; in as much as parks ‘complex’ problems. The efforts undertaken by the various the importance of power which are necessary for conservation, former is patterned and players. The CSIR is providing could disrupt, stall or undermine parks fragment land and people. predictable. All you need is interactive approaches at any effort. more information. The latter different levels to improve Peacebuilding as a community is fraught with multiplicity, security in the national interest. Hence, the CSIR’s approach intervention that addresses its elements are diverse, in This does not only mean of vertical and horizontal stakeholder needs, contributes constant interaction, and developing another piece of integration – from a whole- to the constitutional imperative ultimately, unpredictable. equipment. Such thinking would of-society approach to of “peace and harmony” while ignore the importance of sharing enterprise engineering, systems dealing with specific root The phenomenon of rhino engineering and technology and agreeing to objectives and causes. With peacebuilding as poaching falls within the management for complex goals, shared approaches and one of the interventions, it offers complex category. It is an problems. This approach deals strategies to get synchronisation an important alternative to entanglement of factors ranging and avoid groups working with matters at a broader scope. “militarisation of conservation”. from human greed and folklore, against each other. Also, by including stakeholders to fraud and differences In the case of wildlife crime, in the development of between legal systems. All of However, collaboration alone different aspects of the which disrupt conservation and does not create deep change problem are interconnected, interventions increases the impact community security. nor does it surface paradigms. but stakeholders are tempted chance of these interventions Does this mean there is no It might improve tactical and to address the problem in being successful. solution to wildlife crime? Some operational level situations parts, consequently creating The complexity of wildlife argue that the crucial element but it does not address new problems. For example, crime requires a vertically lies in people and how they problems which require while law enforcement is and horizontally integrated are engaged. strategic interventions. In the understandably frustrated by its case of complex problems, all inability to get ahead of wildlife approach with the problem South Africa faces complex levels need to be addressed crime, it cannot refer to its context and interventions on security challenges. None simultaneously. The paradigm efforts as a “war on poaching” one side, and methodology on of these can be solved by a underlying the problem must and then hope to work with the other.

36 FIGHTING FROM THE FOXHOLE

Ellicit wildlife product distribution network Wildlife conservation

Whole-of-society: Transnational organised crime Peacebuilding Foresight/intervention Demand Management

Poaching network Communities

Department of South African South African Enterprise Environmental Affairs National Parks Police Service engineering

Law Enforcement Systems Physical security engineering

C3 Surveillance Responder Technology technologies technologies technologies management

Refer to the image above for – The second level includes the surveillance technologies and – The technology management a graphic presentation of this government departments and responder technologies. level develops, acquires and concept. other organisations involved matures new technologies. in interventions. One of The integrating methodologies A number of levels are of the interventions is law corresponding to the various Each of these make use of levels above are: concern and one level should enforcement which includes discipline-specific methodologies, not be assumed to be more the South African Police – A whole-of-society approach such as scenarios in the context important than another. Services, the Department of is concerned with developing level. The approach is problem Activities occur on all levels Environmental Affairs, South interventions outside of focused as opposed to discipline simultaneously: African National Parks and departmental mandates, focused or organisation centric, NGOs, among others. This individual organisations – The context level is important and vertically integrated level provides capabilities and communities based on in terms of understanding with enterprise engineering/ for the intervention. Other foresight and drawing on the problem. One of the architecture and technical interventions might include different disciplines. temptations is to ignore the demand management, or systems. The timeous flow of context and jump towards community interventions such – Enterprise engineering information in both directions a solution quickly. In the as peacebuilding. (single departments and along the vertical and horizontal case of poaching, the interoperability between dimensions is critical for context level includes the – The third level is a these) focuses on capability appropriate responses to security particular capability within end-users of wildlife products evaluation and assessment risks. an organisation, such as in Southeast Asia, the illicit against strategic requirements. physically securing the product distribution network, This is not just about ICT but What is being learnt by the Intensive Protection Zone in includes organisational design the syndicates involved in CSIR in the context of wildlife the Kruger National Park. (leadership, rewards and transnational organised crime can also be applied recognition, and culture). crime, poaching networks – The fourth level includes the in cyber security, water and in southern Africa, wildlife technologies for a particular – Systems engineering energy infrastructure security, parks, and communities capability, such as command, concerns technical systems and disaster management, around parks. control and communications, and capabilities. among others.

37 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

UAVs IN COUNTER POACHING

Many industry roleplayers, as auspices of the Rhino Protection The CSIR applied knowledge The challenge put to the well as the public are asking why Programme. The programme gained from the defence technology: For counter-poaching unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) places substantial focus on environment to formulate three operations, UAVs can be applied or drones are not applied to developing advanced technology concepts of operations for for reconnaissance flights; to counter-poaching. Many think it is solutions through which to combat the use of UAVs in counter- search, locate, track and follow the ultimate solution, yet there are wildlife crime and protecting poaching and five concepts potential poachers before and also those who feel the technology South Africa’s rhino in the wild. A for conservation management. directly after an incident as well as is a waste of time in this domain. partnership was formed between Tests and evaluations looked a deterrence tool. For conservation CSIR test and evaluation experts the CSIR, PPF and the South at how UAVs can be applied management the systems can be conducted extensive field trials to African National Parks (SANParks) effectively to enhance the current used to study temporal and spatial determine the answer. to determine if and how UAVs can be applied in operations operational capabilities within dynamics of savannah elephants, Partnerships formed dealing with environmental asset SANParks. Further analysis aimed as a survey tool for rhino guardian Peace Parks Foundation (PPF), protection, for example countering to determine which functionalities strategies, for fire management, through generous funding from the rhino poaching; or environmental are required from an Unmanned the monitoring of aquatic systems Dutch Postcode Lottery, initiated the asset management, for example Aerial System (UAS) for successful and for the detection of radio UAV evaluation project under the aerial environmental surveys. implementation. frequency collared animals.

38 FIGHTING FROM THE FOXHOLE

The UAV platform provided was a fixed wing electric powered aircraft with a mean take-off mass of 4.5 kg and a wing span of 2.4 m. The mean take-off mass includes a maximum payload weighing no more than 500 g that consisted of a night vision, or colour, or low-light black and white camera gimbal. The UAV is operated by two operators from a command and control vehicle.

How they tested it at different times of the day in a 24-hour cycle. Different scenarios For this project, the test and were created during the third phase Critical requirements to take note of before evaluation process was developed to represent the operational concepts operating this type of technology are: in such a way that it can be applied to assess the functions, features and for the test and evaluation of several – SACAA regulatory compliance for licensing of the performance under representative types of UASs. operating conditions that are required area of operations, systems and pilots; UAV and Drone Solutions (UDS) was for locating objects of interest in the – Sustained budget (owning vs renting the system); selected by PPF as the UAS supplier. Kruger National Park environment. – Life cycle and running costs; They provided an unmanned aircraft And now to implement – Integration with enforcement capabilities; and with its supporting sub-systems for the – Integration with other sensors and technology duration of the testing. From the test results it was clear that solutions. The system was optimised by UDS UAVs are a remarkable support and tested by the CSIR in three tool if included into the arsenal of national parks located in South counter-poaching technologies and Types of unmanned aerial systems to Africa over a period of nine months. capabilities already hard at work. consider: Phase one looked at whether the To optimally use this technology, the system can operate stealthily and if study further found that success will lie – Fixed wing; so, at which altitude above ground in developing operational procedures – Rotary wing; and level would it need to fly to not of how to integrate a UAS into – Multi rotor. be heard. In phase two, the optic current concepts of operations as sensors were tested to determine well as to employ these capabilities if objects of interest could be on actionable intelligence of poacher Classes of unmanned aerial systems to located at varying altitudes. The activities threatening protected areas. consider: objects included people, vehicles, flashing lights and human size high- The CSIR will continue to support – 1A (<1.5 kg); resolution test targets. The tests were SANParks in the testing and – 1B (<7 kg); conducted in three different veld evaluation of proposed UASs to – 1C (<20 kg); types that represented savannah, be used in environmental asset bush and mountainous areas. Optic management and protection – Refer to SACAA RPAS regulation 101 surveillance systems were also tested operations.

39 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016 Prevention is better than countering Predictive modelling assists in counter-poaching

CSIR researchers specialising predictive modelling tool was rhino positions. The tool will be states that poacher prediction in data fusion and mathematics originally developed to assist optimised to predict poacher and rhino behaviour anomaly plan to extend a predictive the South African National Parks positions more accurately, detection will form a part of modelling tool currently (SANParks) with better decision- using historic and recent their analytics service offering, implemented in the Kruger making in the deployment poacher tracks, natural terrain “Predictive modelling, tracking National Park to private of technologies. “The Kruger features and other sources of and anomaly detection are nature reserves. This newly National Park is vast in terms contextual data. In this way examples of services that can implemented model assists of surface area with a limited rangers can be deployed to be easily integrated into the counter-poaching units to deploy number of rangers available for intercept poachers. Another Cmore platform with modest sensors and manpower at the patrols. This tool will help them plan is for rhino behaviour to be development effort. This right time, at the right place. better direct rangers and deploy analysed in real-time to detect provides a mature front-end and technologies such as radars, anomalous behaviour. Once graphical user interface with In collaboration with the perimeter surveillance systems strange behaviour is detected, a vast collection of geo-spatial Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), and other sensors used to detect a ranger or unmanned aerial analysis and collaboration researchers will extend and poachers. If you have resources vehicle (UAV) can be tasked to tools to host, display and utilise contextualise the tool to be of to cover a small percentage investigate.” analytics results.” use in the private and provincial of the park, you have to know nature reserves surrounding the where to focus your efforts. CSIR software engineer Pieter CSIR applied mathematician, Kruger National Park. Botha is the project leader of Hildegarde Koen, started “Smaller private reserves the social network-inspired working on a concept of a tool Dr Pieter de Villiers, a principal typically have more accurate collaborative command and that could potentially tip the CSIR researcher, said that the information on ranger and control platform, Cmore. Botha balance back in the favour of

CANINES

The canine unit, functioning as part of the TO RHINO Kruger National Park’s counter-poaching operations, has proven itself as one of the most effective groups in the war on RESCUE rhino poaching. Dogs like Killer have become household names – known and loved by many South Africans, and feared by the poaching syndicates. The CSIR assisted South African National Parks with determining specifications for dogs to be acquired, and aided in the deployment of the dogs and handlers. Inherent health, willingness to work, and an outstanding ability to track were among the top qualities sought in the highly trained dogs chosen for this challenging task.

40 FIGHTING FROM THE FOXHOLE

the rangers. “When the poaching Technology group of laboratories There is no single solution problem flared up in 2010, I based in the Netherlands. to the rhino crisis. decided to focus my PhD study Only through collective on developing a model that could Data science researcher and project team member, Dr Vukosi effort and a range of theoretically predict poaching Marivate, commented on the incidents. As I started working on technologies, such as the possible implications of a it I quickly realised that there were predictive modelling tool, successful prediction, “At the no existing rhino poaching models moment there are many experts will poaching incidents be and very limited information working on the poaching reduced. available. We decided to problem. By adding computers build an expert knowledge that are continuously crunching model based on the experience numbers and providing possible and information provided by locations to the team, you experts working on counter- can give forces on the ground poaching programmes in the a better chance of catching Kruger National Park. We try to poachers.” consider the variables that would influence poaching events, such The benefit lies in assisting as proximity to water, vegetation SANParks and neighbouring density, or moon cycles,” said private reserves in decision- Koen. making and it helps key roleplayers to better understand A complex problem such the causal contextual factors that as wildlife crime requires promote or reduce poaching. innovative solutions built through It will also directly impact the collaboration. In addition to the arrest rate by directing rangers EWT, CSIR safety and security and air support that are in hot experts, as well as data mining pursuit of poachers, with the and data science researchers help of smartphones carried by are working together with the rangers that are integrated into University of Pretoria’s Statistics the system. It is much easier Department and researchers chasing someone if you have an from the Thales Research and idea of where they are heading.

TACTICAL RANGER TRAILER The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency’s special counter- poaching team, which operates clandestinely in rhino reserves, received a tactical ranger trailer re-designed and optimised by CSIR engineers seasoned in adapting existing equipment according to mission specification. Rangers, in groups of five, are often deployed for days at a time in areas without any infrastructure. The standard Jurgens trailer (originally donated to StopRhinoPoaching.com by Jacaranda FM’s Purple Rhino Project, who then donated it to the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency) needed to be modified to offer specialised support for these teams. The requirements included a mobile electric fence that would offer protection from wild animals, accommodation, shower facilities, water and storage for cooked food for five days. A silent fossil fuel generator and solar panels were further included for power generation, energy storage and the charging of batteries for command and control systems, as well as camouflage for concealment and safe storage space for sensitive equipment.

41 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

A SUPER-ADVANCED ‘SPYGLASS’ FOR ENHANCED MODERN SECURITY

Ever watched a crime drama for roll call, operations, See more, do more During complex operations, or spy film and marvelled at and resource tracking and many different sensors can those scenes where a team management, with some Basically, Cmore is an therefore be deployed, for of technicians are sitting in added systems integration. advanced, innovative situation example radar, optronic, a darkened room full of big, All of these concept awareness and decision- electronic warfare, tracking fancy monitors that enable demonstrators and ideas then support platform that exploits or detection systems. Cmore them to constantly track and found their way, through the modern web and mobile allows for the filtering of follow a Jason Bourne-like CSIR, into supporting border technologies to address the information to mitigate need for shared awareness assailant with great precision, safeguarding experiments information overload. It among users. It consolidates in real-time, while being in joint operations with the allows users to only see the information from various in constant communication South African National information that is relevant sensors and external systems, with a team of operatives Defence Force (SANDF), to them at a specific point in uses real-time analytics and and controlling traffic lights where interdepartmental and time. This assists in decision- enables collaboration between and surveillance cameras multinational agencies are making and provides useful multiple parties from various seemingly at will? That is the required to collaborate. The shared situation awareness to domains. kind of advanced shared idea was to use smartphones all members involved. situational awareness that the as sensors and collaboration Situation awareness is the Cmore system can enable. devices in a network. After a ability to perceive and Cmore’s flexible Recently, it’s been making couple of tries, Cmore was comprehend a situation and information model and born.” life a lot tougher for rhino being able to predict how a focus on simplicity of poachers in the Kruger situation may unfold – similar One of the first versions of use makes it suited National Park. to where Jason Bourne Cmore was demonstrated (or his terrorist or poacher for domains such during the SANDF’s Musina “It all started with the CSIR’s counterpart) might be going as conservation, preparations to support the Border Safeguarding next, and how to stop him. disaster response and 2010 Soccer World Cup, experiment in February 2013. where the idea of creating A big change in approach for Cmore is able to exchange management, public web-based applications developing Cmore came when information with a diverse services, as well as safety it was decided to deploy for command and control set of services and sensors, and security. The system purposes originated,” says the technology in the Kruger such as detection systems and has the ability to fully Pieter Botha, Senior Software National Park in support of various other entity tracking Engineer. counter-poaching activities, systems. Cmore also allows exploit the geographic from July 2014 onwards. for the secure distribution of nature of events and “Those applications did not Currently, Cmore is used information with the ability to real-world entities, and result in the Cmore we know by many organisations and share and collaborate with today, it was simply some users in the environment asset other users in the community eloquently facilitates standalone applications protection domain. from anywhere in the world. interoperability.

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CSIR_16907_Pull up banner_2.indd 1 2016/07/01 9:07 AM FIGHTING FROM THE FOXHOLE

“Most people are amazed at what is possible with Cmore and how good it looks compared to the conventional shared awareness systems they’ve been exposed to,” says Alex Turlunen, Senior Software Engineer.

“Cmore takes interoperability a Vawda, lots of systems exist Border Safeguarding Experiment level up. It provides the ability that can do bits and pieces of Musina to integrate diverse data and what Cmore can do, but the information sources. This also system is unique in that it does holds for external applications everything in one place. and services. All of this combined with the appealing “The most important aspects visual design language and missing from comparable user experience-based design systems are secure sharing make for a compelling case and collaboration support. in security and defence Cmore also sports a flexible application. It also simplifies data model, but still provides and enhances the use of the benefits of a common smartphones for gathering real- static data model, without time information and enabling prescribing a specific domain. 11 useful data sharing.” It is in essence ‘domain Currently, Cmore is a web and agnostic’, making it applicable mobile application enabled for in a variety of domains and use on smartphones using the applications,” says Vawda. Google Chrome web browser and Android 4.1 or later. iOS The other aspect where Cmore support is also in the pipeline, shines, according to Botha, is which will significantly in consolidating various kinds broaden the potential user of sensor inputs in a single base. place.

According to another of the >> Continued on CSIR’s Cmore experts, Shazia following page

43 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

>> Continued from events in Cmore, for example improved crime prevention “It really puts you in previous page a number plate may be and reaction. However, the the field, as it were, queried against the national main tests of Cmore’s mettle to even though you “We can bring in stolen vehicle database and date have centred on counter- may be in an air- information about the the outcome recorded in poaching efforts in the Kruger conditioned office movement of ships, Cmore.” National Park. outside of the park. aircraft, vehicles and In terms of information Comprehensive We can see in real people through the security, all network counter-poaching capabilities time which rangers various systems that communications are encrypted. Cmore was are where in the track them. We can bring The number of rhino poaching conceptualised with security in park and what they in detections made by mind, right from the start. incidents has escalated dramatically in the past have encountered on smart devices such as “We’ve had other units in decade as the demand patrols,” says Swart. motion cameras and the CSIR perform black and for poached rhino horn licence plate detection grey box penetration testing increased. Housing the largest too.” to ensure system integrity. As concentration of rhinos in with most other web-based South Africa, and also worst “Finally we have a section systems, the greatest risk lies hit by poachers, the Kruger dedicated to the interfacing with the individual users that National Park has become with services external to are given access to Cmore the focus of a number of Cmore done by third parties. and don’t take care when interventions to protect these Some examples are systems safeguarding passwords,” vulnerable animals and that perform analytics or said Botha. improve the ability of park predictive models on Cmore officials to deal with poachers. and other data and then Collaboration efforts have send results back to Cmore. started with the South Cmore is currently being used External databases can African Police Force (SAPS) as the core shared awareness also be queried to augment to incorporate Cmore into platform in the fight against information about captured community policing forums for rhino poaching. Cmore

44 FIGHTING FROM THE FOXHOLE

assists the Mission Area According to Swart, the “This helps us to better plan about 50% of the rhino Joint Operations Centre to biggest advantage of our patrols based on where population in South Africa, plan and run anti-poaching Cmore shows poachers may with limited participation operations and provides the Cmore is that it gives strike next or what times of from Mozambique and capability to manage events, users the ability to have the month poachers might be Namibia. These efforts will report on the current situation a complete picture of more active, and so forth.” be replicated in the Southern and, crucially, to work what is happening in African Development jointly with neighbouring Swart says Cmore has Community region to serve parks, reserves and partner the park at any given undoubtedly increased the as a collaboration platform organisations to combat moment, and from effectiveness of counter- for conservation groups and poaching. A number of anywhere. poaching efforts in the Kruger partners for the purpose of related organisations have National Park. providing a South African, started to collaborate on “With Cmore we can plot African, and ultimately a “Specific cases are still Cmore and contribute to the trends and identify patterns to global view of conservation. sub judice but it has made platform as a result of the get ahead of the poachers. a massive difference in successes achieved in the We plot where carcasses The CSIR continues to the park. Also, by adding Kruger National Park. were reported or where refine and expand Cmore’s sensors and new data poachers or suspicious capabilities by collaborating streams, the system just keeps The CSIR’s chief Cmore persons or vehicles were with diverse stakeholders, getting stronger and more coordinator and operational spotted, or where poacher such as the SAPS, Eskom, useful. The rangers have analyst in the Kruger National tracks or scent were picked Denel, and the Department of also gotten used to how Park is Charmaine Swart, up. Over time a picture Environmental Affairs. More Cmore works and have truly who has been involved in the emerges of problem areas than 77 organisations are embraced the technology.” rollout of Cmore as a counter- and how poachers are already registered users of poaching measure and the the Cmore system. moving in the park and, Cmore is already, apart training of game rangers in importantly, where they may from the Kruger National the use of the technology. be getting into the park. Park, being used to cover

45 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

Taking the guesswork out of GUNSHOT DETECTION

Public gatherings pose a noise triggers the transfer of security challenge to the services the detection and localisation tasked with maintaining law and information to a software order and, most importantly, platform running on an auxiliary safety. The chaos that can computer. This graphical user emanate from crowd unrest or interface displays the signal protest situations necessitates and gunshot information to the fast, accurate information. For user in a real-time polar form example, being able to pinpoint indicating relative and actual if a gunshot originated and from bearing. It is possible for the where will assist safety forces system to identify the calibre of to respond in a controlled, the gun from the signature of the measured manner. Information such as the source coordinates, shot. All the data parameters the type and range of the shot is are recorded and available for key data in assisting authorities post-analysis, if required. to provide a fast, effective and The system can interface with informed response that can save command centres via Cmore, lives. an advanced, innovative A prototype acoustic situation and decision support platform, providing tactical gunshot detection system, information and situation recently developed by the records. The potential to CSIR, is able to identify coordinate with other systems (or dismiss) if an impulse and provide common feedback noise (such as a sharp, will provide both field and loud bang) was a real command centre operatives live data and situational feedback. gunshot and can identify This ability to rapidly dispatch where the shot came from. information to a designated control room or operations The demonstrator comprises sensors in a unique three- centre will provide the situation dimensional array, related commanders with the agility to analogue and digital electronics respond tactically to evolving with a dedicated processing events – key data that the unit running custom algorithms authorities require to formulate that provide the real-time and execute a response equal signal processing. A sudden and appropriate to the threat.

46 FIGHTING FROM THE FOXHOLE

Previous page: Prototype sensor array mounted on a car Right: Processing electronics Bottom: Operator’s interface

Out in the field

The system is small and cost-effective to produce. It has the potential to operate from both static and mobile installations and from varied power sources such as batteries and solar power, rendering it adaptable to local environments.

The mobile system can be vehicle mounted and used in applications such as crowd control operations by the SAPS, peacekeeping missions and in border patrols to detect and localise hostile activity.

A static installation is ideal at strategic points in game reserves or border areas for intelligence gathering. In a distributed configuration, the system can also support neighbourhood security.

The system could also be mounted for naval use when patrolling rivers.

47 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 Aerospace:

Supporting strategic air power

In conventional or asymmetric This requires well-integrated as search and rescue, support warfare, the adage that airspace surveillance and to other security services, “he who has the best toys, command and control systems. diplomatic interventions, wins” seems to remain true. While static systems provide humanitarian assistance and Aeronautics has arguably been much of this capability, South disaster relief. the beneficiary of the most rapid Africa’s deployed forces can rate of technological advance of also rely on mobile, organic As part of a joint defence all sectors. air, land and sea systems for responsibility, an integrated protection. air defence system is critical Air forces globally agree that to providing collaborative ‘going high-tech’ in air defence South Africa’s range of airborne intelligence from air assets and is tempting, can be cost- assets is used to protect the electronic sensor data. This is effective and certainly provides country against air threats, where innovative engineering a competitive edge. Smaller provide fire-support to our forces can best deliver real-time air forces that argue against and infrastructure protection intelligence and threat analysis. the cost of new technologies through interdiction and close-air are in danger of finding support. Our key air capabilities The CSIR supports the South themselves outmanoeuvred by are also used in peacekeeping African Air Force in its efforts to better equipped opponents. missions and combined security operate as a strategic defence Still, technology choices have operations, as well as providing capability, to support force to be taken judiciously on a air transport for ordered and development and air operations; case-by-case basis and must diplomatic commitments and support industrial initiatives and be well-supported by superior air support to civil authority and the growth of a healthy base technology testing, evaluation for South Africa’s international of aeronautics engineers and and development. This is where obligations. innovators. scientific testing and evaluation ensure competitiveness by The use of our air capabilities The ultimate aim is to ensure that enabling smart buying, smart has, in fact, become South Africa’s Defence Force usage and smart management indispensable to defence is configured and equipped to of capabilities. support operations. Our air defend and secure its national force is often called up to assist interests and protect its people, Effective air defence depends in military evacuation and rapid as well as participate in on detecting, identifying, deployment, strategic lift, air peacekeeping missions and tracking, intercepting and supply and airborne operations render military assistance to destroying potential air threats. or civil society operations such other nations.

48 HIGHER ORDER: STRATEGIC AIR POWER

Technology choices must be well-supported by superior testing, evaluation and development capabilities.

49 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

WIND TUNNEL TESTING: RELEVANT OR RELIC?

Mauro Morelli, facilities manager at the CSIR’s wind tunnels

Modern times have seen conducted an important transonic the control surfaces of an aircraft, how to broaden the scope of our significant advances in the wind tunnel test for an international mainly the wings, during flight, wind tunnel testing services.” modelling and simulation of client that manufactures aircraft. by using smart, flexible materials structures and their responses We are expecting more to come,” and adaptive technologies to The challenge is to keep in various scenarios. It saves says Morelli. He is not ignorant of enable the aircraft to fly at a large these industrial facilities developers and designers massive the advantages the digital world number of operating points while operational and available to amounts of resources, including can offer, “We are striving to maintaining maximum efficiency. the local and international time and money, when a newly improve our integration with digital This will make flight more efficient developed structure can be tested technology that will surely enhance and cost-effective. The international industry within a scientifically in a virtual world that simulates our offering to the clients.” team is also developing the tools poised community and reality to perfection. that will allow the analyses and When questioned about the most funding agencies. The simulations necessary to evaluate This begs the question, are wind interesting test Morelli and his team CSIR and the South African the effectiveness of these proposed tunnels with their huge infrastructure conducted in a wind tunnel, he solutions. Department of Defence and high running costs still said, “It must be the tomato plants have done their fair share to relevant? we tested in the seven-metre wind The CSIR’s suite of wind tunnels make this task easier. tunnel. This was conducted for a includes the previously mentioned Mauro Morelli, the facilities study on the resistance created seven-metre tunnel, a low-speed Morelli has had a long and manager at the CSIR’s wind by tomato plants to the airflow in tunnel, a high-speed tunnel and successful career at the CSIR. He tunnels, has been part of the the hot-house where they were Morelli’s favourite, the medium- has mentored many young and aeronautics team for as long as growing. We really did it! We speed wind tunnel. “If I must aspiring aeronautical engineers it has been in existence. Well, placed the plants in pots, on choose a wind tunnel that I like who now have successful careers almost. He has spent the better shelves in the tunnel!” more than the others, it must be the part of two and a half decades of their own. Reflecting on his medium-speed wind tunnel. Not testing and evaluating numerous In terms of engineering, he time at the CSIR, he states that he because it is imposing, transonic, airframes in the CSIR’s suite of stated that the NOVEMOR a has deep appreciation for his expensive and the youngest, but wind tunnels. project was of particular interest. colleagues who are specialists in The CSIR’s aeronautic team because I got my degree through their respective fields. Together they “25 years ago I was guaranteed collaborated with a European it. I grew professionally through form a dedicated experimental that digital technology and consortium to test a passenger it, spent blood, sweat and tears aerodynamics research group. The mathematical modelling was transport airframe with morphing in it. Being now the manager experience and expertise can be going to render the wind tunnels control surfaces. In this project, of the whole suite of tunnels has invested in technologies that are obsolete. ‘Soon’ they said. I am researchers and engineers are endeared all of them to me. I have rare in the world and exclusive in still waiting. In March this year we studying the possibility of moving learned the strengths of each and South Africa.

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THE CSIR’S SUITE OF TUNNELS

MEDIUM-SPEED LOW-SPEED WIND TUNNEL WIND TUNNEL The low-speed wind tunnel – Scaled racing vehicle tests; The medium-speed wind tunnel – Force and pressure is a continuous, single return – Flow visualisation (oil flow, is one of the best-equipped and measurement; wind tunnel with a closed test tufts, liquid crystals); most sophisticated tunnels of its – Flow visualisation; section. Strut-mounted models are – Helicopter intake kind in the southern hemisphere. – Flutter testing; suspended from an overhead six- characterisation; and A 20 MW electric motor drives – Dynamic testing capability; component virtual-centre balance. – Propeller tests. a three-stage axial compressor and An auxiliary pitch sector allows with variable guide vanes and – Aerodynamic damping tests. sting-supported models to be Low-speed wind tunnel stator blade angles for accurate mounted on a variety of internal specifications: Mach number control. This Medium-speed wind tunnel strain gauge balances. – Speed range: 5 m/s to variable density transonic tunnel specifications: Low-speed wind tunnel test 120 m/s; operates continuously for optimum – Mach no. range: M 0.2 to capabilities include: – Test section: 2.1 m x 1.5 m productivity and accuracy. The M 1.4; – Scaled aircraft loads and rectangular with corner square test section is slotted, – Test section: static stability; fillets; with a porosity of 5% for the 1.5 m x 1.5 m x 4.5 m; – Pressure distribution; – Atmospheric tunnel; and best possible flow at transonic – Reynolds number: – Air data probe calibration; – Reynolds number: Mach numbers.The test types in 31 x 106/m (M 0.8); – Flutter; 6 x 106/m. the medium-speed wind tunnel – Closed circuit, variable – Two-dimensional oscillating include: pressure, continuous wind aerofoil; – Captive trajectory (store tunnel; and separation) tests; – Stagnation pressure: 20 to – High angle of attack tests; 250 kPa

HIGH-SPEED WIND TUNNEL

SEVEN-METER WIND TUNNEL

The high-speed wind tunnel is a – Flow visualisation (colour The seven-meter wind tunnel is – Flow visualisation (tufts, oil trisonic, blowdown wind tunnel Schlieren). a continuous, open circuit tunnel flow, smoke); equipped with a colour Schlieren powered by 28 axial flow fans – Flow field measurement system for flow visualisation. High-speed wind tunnel of 30 kW each. Uniform flow (multi-hole probes); Subsonic and supersonic Mach specifications: distribution across the speed – UAV test rigs; and numbers are tested using the – Mach no. range: M 0.6 to range of the tunnel is given by – Propeller test rigs. standard wind tunnel setup, M 4.0; running the fans in one of 13 while tests in the transonic regime – Test section: 0.45 m x 0.45 m; different symmetrical patterns. The Seven-meter wind tunnel employ an extra cart that is fitted – Run time: 10 to 30 seconds; test capabilities in the seven-meter specifications: with a plenum evacuation system – Reynolds number: wind tunnel include: – Speed: 2 to 32 m/s in and porous walls. Typical test 6 to 50 x 106/m; – Force measurement (internal discreet steps; types in the high-speed wind – Stagnation pressure range: balance, platform balance – Test section: tunnel include: 70 to 950 kPa; and and rotor balance); 7,5 m x 6,5 m x 13 m; and – Force measurement; – Trisonic intermittent – Pressure measurement – Continuous, open circuit. – Pressure measurement; blowdown wind tunnel. (Scanivalve system); – Inlet flow measurement; and

51 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 Fast, faster, supersonic! Three young female aeronautical engineers are helping to push the envelope at the CSIR’s medium-speed wind tunnel with research across the whole subsonic-supersonic spectrum that will significantly expand South Africa’s aeronautics expertise and testing capabilities.

From left to right, Janine Schoombie, Lara Nel and Alesha Saligram at Mach speed: In aeronautics, the Mach number refers to the ratio of flow speed (such as wind speed) past a boundary compared to the local speed of sound. Mach 1 is equal to once the local speed of sound, Mach 2 is twice the speed of sound, etc.

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FAST FASTER Up to Mach 0.3 Mach 0.8 to Mach 1.4

Janine Schoombie, an aeronautical engineer at the CSIR, is A Master’s student in aeronautics from the University of the currently working on testing and adapting a conceptual design Witwatersrand (Wits) and CSIR bursar, Alesha Saligram, is engineering method, which focuses on non-linear effects of developing an electronically controlled induced mass flow system wing-body interference for missiles with low aspect ratio wings. for aircraft inlet speeds between Mach 0.8 and Mach 1.4 testing at the CSIR’s medium-speed wind tunnel. “The method was developed in 2013 by Dr Sean Tulling for use at supersonic speeds, but my main objective is to extend the “We currently only have the ability to perform full aircraft application of the method to incompressible subsonic speeds aerodynamic testing. The medium-speed wind tunnel facility (below Mach 0.3). This will also aid in exposing limitations of the therefore requires the ability to also perform testing on aircraft method,” said Schoombie. inlets,” said Saligram.

The method is used during the conceptual design “My system will allow for the careful control of mass flow through phase of missiles to calculate the lee side flow inlets at speeds of between Mach 0.8 to Mach 1.4. In other words, the system will allow the air flow characteristics of aircraft characteristics for the particular configuration and inlets to be verified, thereby allowing for optimised designs.” other properties such as lift, pitching moment, centre of pressure position and vortex positions. With such a system in place, engineers will be able to study not just the air flow around an aircraft, Some of these engineering level codes exist, but are not readily available in South Africa and many are not applicable to but will also be able to predict the aerodynamic missiles with very low aspect ratio wings. The benefit of using an characteristics of the aircraft inlet under investigation. engineering level method is that it is very quick and cost-effective When completed, the capability to test aircraft inlets at a reasonable accuracy. will be added to the suite of capabilities available at Janine Schoombie, whose father is a commercial pilot and who the CSIR’s wind tunnels. grew up around aircraft, initially wanted to become a pilot herself. Her parents wanted her to first earn a degree and she naturally Alesha Saligram’s father is a lecturer in electronic engineering and chose aeronautics. “I fell in love with engineering and now I her two older sisters are computer science engineers. So when don’t want to do anything else,” she said. She enjoys working it was her turn to choose a career, she wanted to do something on defence aircraft because she has found it to be “much more different and to challenge herself. She chose aeronautics, and complex than standard aircraft, and the scope is vast”. hasn’t ever regretted her decision. SUPERSONIC Mach 1 to Mach 5

Lara Nel, another Wits student and CSIR bursar currently busy with her PhD in aeronautics, is studying shockwave/expansion fan interactions between bodies in close proximity at supersonic speeds (between Mach 1 and Mach 5). She’s looking at how shockwaves and expansion fans interact with each other when aircraft are flying in close proximity or when aircraft are carrying or releasing weapon systems at supersonic speeds.

“There hasn’t been a lot of research that looks at shockwave/expansion fan interactions at supersonic speeds. On the one hand I’m looking at the basic physics involved, and I’m also working on developing aeronautics models that will assist with supersonic engine inlet design or the testing of store carriage and release from aircraft (missiles, bombs, fuel tanks, etc.), and formation flying,” said Nel.

“Other researchers have mostly looked at shockwave/shockwave interactions, but very little research has focused on shockwave/expansion fan interactions. My research will help to fill that gap.”

Where similar research studies have mostly relied on two-dimensional modelling, Nel’s work combines data from wind tunnel tests with computer-generated flow visualisations to create three-dimensional models of the interactions observed.

By understanding how shockwaves and expansion fans interact when aircraft and aircraft, or aircraft and weapons systems, are in close proximity at supersonic speeds will greatly assist in the design of supersonic engine inlets and aircraft store carriage and release mechanisms.

Lara Nel has always loved science and finding out how things work, especially when it comes to flight and flying. “At the Wits open day there was a Mirage F1 on display during the aeronautics laboratory tour and I was sold!” Studying supersonic aeronautics appealed to her for a simple reason: “The faster, the better! It’s amazing that we can travel that fast. At those speeds the shockwaves become very interesting and the flow visualisations make for amazing pictures that can even be considered art.”

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Longer endurance unmanned aerial systems

The CSIR flagship Modular demonstration in a relevant handling characteristics of the through-the-night mission, Unmanned Aerial System flight environment. The airframe. and electric motors that can (UAS), first flown in 2009, Modular UAS is unique in be turned on intermittently has been under continuous that is has a twin-fuselage, The latest modifications are for up to an hour of almost developed. Serving as a electrically powered modular to extend the span to 6 m to silent surveillance. A locally research platform, it is used design. The two fuselages provide a longer endurance developed stabilised camera to validate advanced novel are spaced sufficiently far capability. This version utilises system is fitted to the central technology components apart that the wing joining a small internal combustion payload pod. and basic sub systems them plays a significant engine to provide the flight by integration and role in the performance and duration required for a

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FAR AND AWAY: Extending guided missile range and UAV capabilities with advanced gas turbines

Advances in electronics and (CAT) and Stellenbosch University, The 200N engine is currently thrust for helicopter applications other developments have seen is currently working on both being assembled for testing, and UAVs, respectively,” says gas turbines and micro gas a 200N (Newton) micro gas while the larger 1 000N Snedden. turbines becoming some of the turbine engine for the hobby engine is in the detailed design most promising technologies market, UAVs and potential phase with specific sub-systems The work being done for powering unmanned aerial small diameter precision guided being manufactured for on these engines, with vehicles (UAVs or drones) and weapons. The CSIR is also component testing. According assistance from the extending the range of guided developing a 1 000N turbojet to Snedden, the core for both missile systems. The CSIR has engine capable of vastly designs are based on mixed Aerospace Industry significantly expanded its activities extending the range of large flow compressor design, Support Initiative (AISI) of in gas turbine design, building on guided missile systems. simultaneously enabling high the Department of Trade developments that were made in mass flow and pressure ratios in the 1980s and 1990s. “With ground-based air defence single stages. The compressors and Industry, is helping to systems becoming more capable, launch a local gas turbine With the lack of a propulsion that have been tested thus long-range stand-off weapons are systems capability in South far all show that the designs industry that could be of becoming increasingly attractive should meet their targets. The Africa having been identified as great economical value to to air forces worldwide.” says a deficiency in the aerospace technology has many potential the country. industry, and with a clear market CSIR principal engineer of gas applications and spin-offs. for an emerging gas propulsion turbines, Dr Glen Snedden. “Apart from the turbojets “Gas turbines are extremely sector, an ideal opportunity was “Extending the range of these currently envisaged, which high value-added sub-systems,” presented to create a local gas types of weapons is the themselves have spin-off concludes Snedden. “The turbine industry and enable the focus for building the next potential in the self-launch potential to create a high value continued development of South generation of such systems. glider market, there are many export commodity, combined Africa’s considerable capability in The correct gas turbines variant designs possible; for with the skilled jobs that will be guided weapons development. have the potential to extend instance, by adding turbine created for our manufacturing The CSIR, in collaboration with the range of these types of stages or converting the engine sector, make it a very attractive Cape Aerospace Technologies weapons to over 200 km.” to bypass engines with higher project for South Africa.”

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Air safety starts on the ground

A specialised weapons integration capability provides the required aero- mechanical knowledge and expertise to help define the aircraft carriage and release armed envelopes. Naturally, the performance and handling of aircraft is impacted with the addition of fire power because its flexibility and aerodynamics are adversely affected. Stores that are individually stable, could react differently in the INFRARED ELECTRONIC WARFARE: flow field of an aircraft. Aerodynamics can adversely affect the trajectory of a Getting to know the enemy on-screen first weapon when released. This means it may not be delivered accurately and may strike the operator’s aircraft. Infrared (IR)-guided man portable air Using these measurements, accurate defence systems (or shoulder launched computer models are developed of the surface-to-air missiles) pose a serious aircraft and countermeasure flares for threat to both civilian and military airborne use in the modelling and simulation platforms. This is especially true on the environment. African continent, where terrorist and In the past, to test a design, hardware insurgent groups are suspected to possess was built and tested in the field. In many thousands of such systems. cases prototypes were damaged beyond Understanding the threat and its repair or, in the case of electronic warfare capabilities is critical for any research, missiles, completely destroyed. This development and effective deployment build-and-break experimental method of infrared countermeasures to ensure the has almost been completely replaced by simulation-based design and testing. survivability of the platform and aircrew.

The characterisation of IR-guided threats The modelling and simulation started in the 1960s and over the years approach provides earlier the CSIR has built up strong capabilities understanding and validation, and facilities to enable the characterisation as well as the opportunity for and analysis of threats. The result of the characterisation process is a model of refinement and improvement. the missile both from infrared seeker and This approach is particularly relevant aerodynamic perspectives. for the development and evaluation of complex systems, such as aircraft self- This process progresses further with the protection countermeasures against missile infrared measurements of the potential attacks. The use of simulation also extends target (the aircraft) carried out using the evaluation to beyond that which is imaging radiometers, as well as an feasible with hardware-only evaluations. imaging Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectrometer. The Using the results of the simulation runs, FTIR collects spectral data to characterise field trials are then undertaken by the CSIR objects spectrally, spatially and temporally. with the client to provide further validation, Measurements, using the imaging enabling the client to compare the actual radiometers, are executed in the short-, hardware (aircraft and flares) operating as medium- and long-wave infrared bands. recommended by the simulations.

56 HIGHER ORDER: STRATEGIC AIR POWER Flying MACHINES The great automation debate

Arguably, innovative engineering the lack of basic situational knowledge and experience. Very little seems to be made of and technological advances awareness and handling Today, however, personnel the fact that engineers have not have increased aviation capabilities in the cockpit staffing the regulatory bodies yet succeeded in designing zero- efficiency and safety at a higher because of the attraction of are mainly ‘old school’, with defect equipment. In addition, rate than in any other domain. automated flight. In several little or no understanding of the their backup of quadruple However, how the benefits accident cases, the causes impact of modern technologies. redundancies statistically could be traced back to a of advanced technology are The problem stems from the reducing failure to better than pilot’s inadequate ‘hands-on’ directed, is raising concern. fact that smart avionics, smart 109, have not lived up to abilities or loss of situational aerodynamics and smart flight Civil aviation regulators, aircraft expectations in the real world. awareness operating the latest control systems have made design engineers, pilots and test generation aircraft. It is no secret modern aircraft a lot easier The loss of the Air France Flight pilots form a growing community that engineers seized upon the to fly and, consequently, pilot 447 Airbus over the Atlantic that recognise the irony of fickleness of pilot judgement to workload has decreased in 2009, saw a series of 24 technological advances in aviation deliberately design ‘pilot error’ significantly – to the extent Aircraft Communications and over the past 113 years of out of the cockpit. that the ‘pilot out of the loop’ powered flight. Based on accident Reporting System messages philosophy increasingly poses statistics, the technology revolution The universally accepted 72% sent automatically for a duration a threat in the decay of piloting has become a serious challenge to of accidents attributed to ‘human of four minutes, indicating skills. the aviation community at large. factors’, spurred engineers to – among others – speed introduce automation technology Engineers have led pilots to the measurement inconsistencies, the Have training regimens to ameliorate pilot handling point where trust in technology disconnection of the autopilot kept pace with innovative and judgement inadequacies. has overwhelmed their faith and the airplane going into technologies and engineering? In fact, in an effort to improve in their own ability to recover ‘alternate law’ flight control Do pilots of highly-automated the flight experience of paying from a ‘bad situation’. Also, mode indicating multiple failures aircraft get sufficient ‘hands- passengers, some airlines to a certain extent, the pilots of redundant systems. on’ flying experience? And, generally prohibit manual flying themselves are complicit in importantly: Could automation of an aircraft, except the take-off 228 people died. Previously this situation; the luxury of error be the new ‘human factors’ and landing. considered a minor failure – automation is turning pilots into contribution to accidents? namely an airspeed indication Over the years, regulators ‘better informed passengers’ due to icing – left the pilots with Internationally, the pilot have exercised their mandate with inadequate physical cues to community is registering a in directing safety conventions handle emergency situations in information overload and a total general concern regarding in accordance with existing some cases. lack of situational awareness, resulting in loss of control of the aircraft manually under the Article contributed by adverse weather conditions. Maj Gen Des Barker Preliminary findings by the accident board indicate the (SAAF ret) who is a serviceable aircraft stalling and military experimental impacting the ocean at nearly test pilot assigned to 11 000 ft/min rate of descent. the CSIRs Aeronautics The question, “How was this Systems. possible?”, resounded across the aviation community.

>> Continued on following page

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Research undertaken by challenge of integrating human FAA human factors specialist factors with automation. Flying MACHINES Dr Kathy Abbott published Certainly, a compromise in 2014, catalogued the solution would require closer The great automation debate evidence of disharmony collaboration between design between crews and their highly engineers, test pilots, line >> Continued from Coupled with the threat automated aircraft. Recurring pilots and regulators to better previous page of technology and handling problems that pilots understand the impact of demonstrated included lack technological innovation on the The simple failure of a radio engineering, the emphasis of recognition of autopilot/ fickleness of the human psyche. altimeter led to the delayed on ‘paper licences’ by auto-throttle disconnect, lack attempts at stall recovery of the civil aviation authorities, of monitoring and failure Regulators need to ensure that Turkish Airlines Boeing 737 Flight training regimens adequately without an equivalent to maintain energy/speed, 951, in which the investigators’ incorrect upset recovery and address the human factors, focus on handling skills preliminary report confirmed that inappropriate control inputs. issues of skills regression and the pilots allowed the automatic and decision-making – reduced situational awareness. systems to decelerate the aircraft typically transferred from Abbot delivered a telling Design engineers and test pilots to a dangerously low speed as judgement on the impact of need to allow for cognitive classroom to cockpit – is it approached Schiphol Airport. automation on pilots, stating saturation and pilot workload With very late detection and also of concern with the that failure assessment of the following failures. By the same pilot response at only 450 ft ‘old hands’. automation was difficult, failure token, test pilots need to play above ground level, the pilots recovery was difficult, and that a stronger role in ensuring scrambled to accelerate out of The removal of stalling and the failure modes were not better understanding between the stall before it crashed to the spinning from the basic flying adequately anticipated by the engineering and the line pilot. ground, killing the three flight training syllabus as a mandatory designers. Airlines, charter companies deck crew and six others on basic handling requirement, has and flying schools should The issue of ‘automation board. The radio altimeter had been debated for many years acknowledge the extent of the addiction’ has been intensely ‘informed’ the automatic flight and is being accepted by civil challenge of integrating the deliberated and debated system that the aircraft was eight aviation authorities in some next generation of pilots safely within the airline industry and feet below the surface when cases. Add to this engineers into technologically advanced aircraft manufacturers. They it was still actually 2 000 feet offering stall- and spin-free cockpits through adequate conceded that the rapid pace above ground level, which handling qualities in their latest training on automation. of engineering innovation held caused the auto-throttle to pull products to reduce accident risks, the potential for a regression back the power to idle, as if are in fact, indirectly, producing Finally, pilots of the automation in pilots’ handling skills and the plane were flaring for the ‘handling’ deficient pilots. The generation (otherwise known as situational awareness. landing. result? Pilots with a lack of ‘children of the magenta line’), recognition of high angle-of- will be required to more fully However, there is no going The Amsterdam incident was at attack characteristics and low understand the matrix of failures back on technological progress. least the fourth in a 13-month confidence in handling aircraft at linked to integrated systems. In It would also be impractical and period in which pilot error high angles-of-attack; accidents fact, pilots need to grow their unrealistic, given the significant caused an airliner to stall and that should not occur. levels of technical knowledge positive contributions of crash. The accident findings almost to the level of aviation technology to aviation safety. intensified the debate over the A recent Federal Aviation engineers. Automated systems Administration (FAA) study found dangers of pilots losing their Fact remains that the threat are complex. Without fully serious flaws in pilot training basic flying skills and situational is real; automation is getting understanding the intricacies and suggested that flight crew awareness as a result of relying ahead of, and out of sync and multiple permutations of were not properly trained for on the sophisticated electronics with the pilot’s abilities and complicated matrix systems, operating highly automated that control airliners through regulator knowledge. Advanced failures will leave pilots at the aircraft, and that for many of most of their flights. technologies instituted to mercy of automation. the problems they have to deal ameliorate human deficiencies Amazingly, following the with, there are no checklists, could turn out to be a bigger As US Airways Capt. Chesley accident, Boeing was prompted 1 leaving the pilots to rely on threat to safety than the human “Sully” Sullenberger said: “We to issue an unusual worldwide ingenuity and airmanship. factor, unless methods of cannot afford pilots and the alert covering procedures that Inadequate crew knowledge of reconciliation can be found technology failing together! If should be second nature to automated systems was a factor between test pilots, aircraft we only look at the pilots – the aviators: “to carefully monitor in more than 40% of accidents design engineers and regulators. human factor – then we are primary flight instruments during and 30% of serious incidents ignoring other important factors; critical phases of flight”, such as between 2001 and 2009 The pertinent question seems we have to look at how they take-offs and landings. worldwide. to be how to manage the work together.”

1 Automation in the air dulls pilot skill, by Kells Hetherington, The Daily Caller, 30 August 2011. http://dailycaller.com/2011/08/30/automation-in-the-air-dulls-pilot-skill/

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NUMERICAL MODELLING TO UNDERSTAND VIOLENT FLUID SLOSHING IN AEROSPACE VEHICLES

Violent fluid sloshing in large fuel The code has been extensively The facility is used to perform ventilation for mines or hospitals, tanks causes impact loading on applied and benchmarked complicated mathematical and the automotive sector. structures and can threaten the in simulating the sloshing of modelling and simulation for a dynamic stability of the vehicle liquid-gas mixtures in tanks. variety of applications such as The CSIR uses both they are contained in – typically The intellectual property was store integration and transonic commercial and customised airliners and space launch rockets. developed at the CSIR within flows, industrial flows, coastal in-house computational the open source ‘OpenFOAM®’ defences, ventilation analysis, A tool that efficiently predicts these framework. space science and launchers, codes to address complex structural and dynamic effects, two-phase flow analysis and aerodynamic, fluid- is of great value in the design Some of the new algorithms are: molten metal flows. These dynamic, multi-physics and of such platforms, as well as for – A compressive surface applications are used to fulfil fluid-structure problems. evaluating the effectiveness of capturing formulation for requirements across a number different approaches for reducing modelling free-surface flow of sectors including aerospace, sloshing. using the volume-of-fluid manufacturing, building designs, approach; The new methods were – A weakly compressible implemented into an open-source free-surface flow solver for computational fluid dynamics liquid-gas systems; and framework and demonstrated – An improved pressure improved accuracy in realistic discretisation scheme aerospace sloshing scenarios for non-orthogonal compared to industry-standard computational meshes. methods. It has proven to be particularly efficient and accurate The CFD laboratory in modelling exceptionally violent sloshing cases, such as those The CSIR’s computational experienced inside aircraft wing fluid dynamics laboratory fuel tanks and liquid rocket fuel consists of 325 powerful tanks. computers working in parallel for integrated wind tunnel and The tool enables the modelling experimental fluid dynamics of the flow dynamics of two studies. immiscible fluids (fluids that cannot be mixed). The fluids may be separate phases, such as liquid and gas, or the same phase (gas-gas or liquid-liquid). The code calculates the evolution of the position of the interfaces between the two fluids, the velocity field throughout the domain and the pressure field. These detailed calculated fields form the output, from which any derived quantities may be obtained – for example loading of baffles, damping ratios, centre of mass, mixing ratios, etc.

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An artist’s impression of the SAAFs Gripen, launching Denel Dynamic’s 5th generation air-to-air missile. (Image: Denel Dynamics)

AIR-TO-AIR MISSILE DEVELOPMENT: Fighter pilots at the forefront Article contributed by Maj Gen Des Barker (SAAF ret) who is a military experimental test pilot assigned to the CSIRs Aeronautics Systems.

The South African air combat some significance since civilian defence companies in fighter-trainers, and capability got an additional it demonstrates southern are involved in the programme the Brazilian Air Force’s sting in its technology power hemisphere cooperation together with counterparts modernised F-5M fighters and with the coupling of a in cutting-edge technology from the Denel team. They its Gripen NG. 5th-generation air-to-air missile whereby we supply our air are involved both in the th th As a 5 -generation missile, (AAM) with a 4 -generation forces with an AAM capability. development of the missile as fighter and the benefit of a well as in technology transfer the A-Darter missile is highly helmet sighting system. The two countries have invested to Brazil – representing an agile and able to manoeuvre considerable effort into excellent match between at high angles of incidence. Currently under joint establishing the framework for the two countries, the two Its agility is supported development, the South Africa/ cooperation. The partnership air forces, and the two significantly by thrust vector Brazil/Denel Dynamics’ is well supported by departments of defence. control, similar to that found A-Darter air-to-air missile commonalities in their national on the latest military aircraft. gives South Africa and Brazil objectives and defence posture. The new missile is geared The A-Darter missile is able independence in a key for use by the South African to operate in an environment area of defence technology. Some 30 engineers from Airforce’s (SAAF) Gripen saturated with enemy electronic This is a programme of the Brazilian Air Force and fighters and Hawk lead- countermeasures (ECMs) and –

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in order to do that successfully the seeker head locking onto the aircraft to hunt for targets The A-Darter design is a low- – it is equipped with a number the target once it comes within while maintaining radar silence drag wingless airframe which of ECM techniques to counter range. This is called ‘lock-on- (radar transmissions can be gives it an extended range any hostile advances. The after-launch’. Even if the target detected by hostile forces using in comparison to previous- A-Darter missile will be guided is within visual and IR-homing electronic support measures). generation IR-homing AAMs. by a highly sensitive thermal range, the radar could still be imaging seeker, with a large used to designate the target – The missile’s large-look angles, It is generally accepted field of regard. the seeker head would added to its considerable that technological ‘lock-on-before-launch’. agility, will make it possible for The fighter pilot is able to the pilot to launch it at high off- superiority is the deciding designate a target for the ‘Lock-on-before-launch’ boresight angles (boresight is a factor in modern warfare. missile in one of three ways: would also be the mode in If the target is outside visual the other two methods of narrow cone of vision straight Denel Dynamics’ A-Darter and infrared (IR) homing target designation. These are ahead of the fighter, using the missile gives the SAAFs helmet sight). In other words, range, it will be designated designation by the pilot using Gripen pilots ‘the edge’ using the aircraft radar, and the helmet sight, or using the the pilot will not have to turn his the missile launched on the missile seeker head to scan for aircraft towards the enemy in and puts them on course requisite intercept course, with targets itself. This mode allows order to engage him. for mastery of the skies.

Shake it off: FLUTTER EXCITATION

Flutter is a very dangerous dynamic instability that all aircraft can The flutter exciters used by the CSIR include: encounter. The purpose of a flutter exciter is to impart a vibration – Bonkers: An explosive charge that provides a single excitation. into a structure. Carried by the flight test aircraft, it distributes This was used on Buccaneers, Impalas, Mirage F1s, etc. energy into the aircraft structure to excite all the natural modes. – Rotation cylinder exciters: The CSIR co-developed this type Structural vibrations are measured by accelerometers and the of flutter exciter. The rotating cylinder provides excitation over responses are used to determine if flutter onset is likely or not. a programmable frequency range and duration. The picture shows the system as fitted to a SAAF Cheetah. The technology comprises two flutter exciters (port and starboard – Annular wing exciters: This type of system is currently used side) and a cockpit control unit. The exciter unit is incorporated into on civilian and high speed military aircraft. The annular wing selected stores that the particular aircraft will carry (be it bombs or excitation system provides excitation over a programmable missiles) and has to be cleared. Being store mounted, the aircraft frequency range and duration. configuration is not changed significantly.

61 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

ANGLE OF ATTACK INDICATOR: Panacea for Safe Handling and Performance?

“You will write out 1000 times by tomorrow morning: “The AoA indicator is not only a stall warning indicator”; these were the orders of the ground instructor to a student pilot during an aerodynamics lecture at Flight School.”

Origins of the AoA those with delta wing planforms an increased use of AoA Owners and Pilots Association indicator such as the Mirage III, generated indicators. The latest push focused (AOPA) Air Safety Institute also drag curves in which minimum on bringing this technology enthusiastically supported the Historically, angle of attack (AoA) drag speeds were typically 300 to general aviation aircraft. cause. indicators were regarded as the KIAS and managing the aircraft The FAA’s Advisory Circular sole domain of flight testing and Weight as a performance energy was the single biggest AC23.1309-1C states: “To then, later on, in third generation parameter contributor to pilot workload. improve the safety of the aircraft fighters as an aid to pilots during Surprisingly, 100 years later, it fleet by fostering the incorporation Every pilot worth his wings knows combat manoeuvring. In the is still not a common instrument of both new technologies that that a wing will stall at a specific world of flight testing, AoA has on general aviation aircraft, address pilot-error and weather- angle and that the stall airspeed always been one of the most despite the Federal Aviation related accidents and those is a direct function of aircraft critical measurement parameters. Administration (FAA) requiring stall technologies that can be certified weight. Since aircraft efficiency In fact, the Wright brothers had warning devices on certificated affordably.” is an indirect function of weight, only one instrument on their first aircraft. aircraft: A protrusion from the by logical deduction, to maximise The Advisory Circular emphasised nose of their aircraft with a piece FAA push efficiency, one would need to fly that AoA gauges allow pilots of yarn attached to it from which the aircraft at a specific optimal to quickly assess their stall they could estimate AoA. Due to the number of loss-of- AoA for specific flight/weight control accidents in general margin, and went on to declare profiles to produce maximum The century series fighters such aviation, both the National affordable AoA instruments efficiency. as the F-100 to F-106 types with Transportation Safety Board and one of its most-wanted safety relatively low aspect ratios, plus the FAA have recommended improvements. The Aircraft

Article contributed by Maj Gen Des Barker (SAAF ret) who is a military experimental test pilot assigned to the CSIRs Aeronautics Systems.

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In fighter combat missions, large levels in the statistics for each phase have had AoA indications available weight differentials of 50% between of flight over the years. for years and general aviation now take-off and landing depend on also has an affordable indicator. maximising critical performance Most accidents occur during take- General aviation can no longer parameters for successful mission off or landing, followed closely sit back thinking it does not need accomplishment, namely: by manoeuvring flight. An AoA an AoA indicator because of the indicator could help prevent such audio stall warning that is scanned – Maximising range and accidents. in conjunction with the airspeed endurance; indicator (ASI). The AoA benefits go According to the FAA, the final beyond than just stall warning. – Maximising turn performance ‘killing event’ is uncontrolled flight during air combat (a survival into the ground due to stalls and ASI vs AoA indicator tool); and spins. The AOPA’s Air Safety Foundation (ASF) states that “stall/ The AoA sensors in GA aircraft are – Optimising speed control spin accidents tend to be more rare and therefore airspeed is used on approach for landing at deadly than other types of GA as a proxy to get the approximate airspeeds of up to 200 KIAS [General Aviation] accidents, angles for various flight profiles. and stopping the aircraft in the accounting for 10% of all accidents, However, the ASI has its own unique available runway length (drag but 13.7% of fatal accidents”. inherent inadequacies such as lag chutes required to stop). and sideslip over/under read errors The ASF study also found that Optimising energy was, and still due to asymmetric input to the static stalls/spins are most likely to occur is, a primary control parameter vents. Unfortunately, pitot-static errors in manoeuvring flight such as for fighter pilots. The single, most increase with airspeed decrease aerobatics, ‘shoot ups’ with steep important indicator of aircraft and provide very little information vertical pull-ups, agricultural flight efficiency, is AoA. However, the about the lift conditions of the wing; steep turns to reverse directions, collateral benefits of AoA go beyond that is what an AoA indicator does. engine failures after take-off with the performance enhancements. In pilot trying to return to the runway, Add to that the idiosyncrasy that 1957 the United States Navy and and steep turns to final approach pilots generally only know the Marines reportedly cut their fatality (‘hammerhead’) when trying to correct approach airspeed for gross rate in half in one year after they correct an overshoot from base weight at sea level on a standard perfected using AoA as the primary to finals. A NASA study in the day – which means that if the aircraft management of energy in carrier late 1970s found that GA aircraft is light, they tend to come in fast landings. typically require about 1 200 ft and curse the ‘floating’ landing, the Times have changed to fully recover from a spin, which bounce or the excessive braking would be undoable in most GA required to stop on the shorter The cost of fuel is a critical factor in aircraft. runways. At the other end of the aviation, and cause for optimising scale, the problem is getting too performance to be able to afford Most airliners have AoA sensors, but slow, resulting in a ‘hard landing’. flying. Also, general aviation output is only through to the flight accidents worldwide have remained management systems and not readily >> Continued on following in roughly proportionally consistent visible to the pilot. Corporate aircraft page

1  Aviation Consumer, Staff Report, January 4, 2013, Alpha Systems.

63 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

>> Continued from Real-world applications the average GA pilot, however, efficiencies are achieved by previous page landing on a 5000 ft runway, flying at the correct angles for Some AoA advocates point to the situation is quite different best rate, best angle of climb, Benefits of AoA the recent Asiana 214 incident – airspeed control on final maximum range, etc., all for an indications in San Francisco as an example approach matters a lot more than investment of under $1500 for of the type of accident that could a new instrument in the panel. most light aircraft. Stall warning, An AoA indication can provide have been prevented. However, increased precision of flight, the pilot with information to it also demonstrated exactly The simple fact is that airspeed is improved stall/spin situational increase the safety and efficacy why AoA is not the panacea for an effective proxy for AoA most awareness, fuel conservation of the aircraft: control woes. Obviously pilots of the time and general aviation and building confidence in pilot’s have to look at the instrument for pilots fly in a very small envelope – The indications are valid handling, are just some of the it to be of any use. In the case of +/- 10º in pitch and 30º of under any flight condition, at benefits. of the Asiana accident, the crew bank in most cases. Within those any airspeed, altitude wing ignored the airspeed indicator, boundaries, monitoring airspeed loading and density altitude. A visible AoA indicator is and got almost 30 knots slow is sufficient to avoid stalling. similar to ‘monitoring’ the – The indicator is sensitive at on final approach. Another Most of the base-to-final stall/ wings’ lifting potential at any airspeed and changes instrument would not have spin scenarios occur because in AoA are immediately prevented this disaster. any stage of flight. This in the pilot got too slow. Basic air apparent. turn enhances the safety Besides looking at the instrument, speed control would therefore – There is a specific AoA that pilots have to know how to improve safety more than a and efficacy of the flight. react to its indications. For the new instrument in the cockpit. provides maximum range For this reason, the FAA/industry GA pilot struggling to log 25 However, accuracy of speed and endurance and even the panel recommended the use hours in a year, the physical stick control on final approach minimum sink speed. of AoA-based systems by GA and rudder skills will be more remains a challenge to the GA to reduce fatal loss-of-control – Vx and Vy are all functions of important than the recognition community at large; naysayers accidents in the approach AoA and occur at the given skills. Furthermore, an AoA will claim that: “We don’t have and landing phases of flight. AoA. Using the same pitch indicator won’t help a pilot who an instrument problem, we have Bolstering that conclusion, FAA attitude for low and high does a ‘shoot-up’ at 20 feet, a stick and rudder skills problem. Administrator Michael Huerta density take-offs may place or prevent a stall caused by Instead of spending a lot of has called for the addition the aircraft in the ‘region of over-gross weight take-off on a money on new instruments, let’s of AoA systems and other reverse command’ but by hot day or other scenarios in the teach pilots how to maintain the potentially life-saving equipment flying the proper AoA on category of ‘loss of control’. proper airspeed on final. Now, to GA aircraft. Kirk Hawkins, rotation, will ensure a proper that would be revolutionary.” attitude regardless of density Fighter pilots readily sing the former Air Force F-16 Pilot altitude or gross weight. plaudits of an AoA system Tangible benefits supported the directive: “Angle because it’s a religion in the of attack well executed, is a – All approaches should be military. Many of them are Is the system worth the expense? game changer in any aircraft – flown using a specific AoA therefore surprised that general There’s more to consider than just and it’s long overdue.” regardless of gross weight, aviation pilots are still flying some extra protection against Any air tactics manual should bank angle, turbulence or solely on airspeed. However, becoming a stall-spin statistic warn: “Speed is Life.” A good density altitude. a counter argument from GA or floating a bit on landing, mantra for fighter pilots, but pilots is that an AoA indicator is although that may be enough – Provides a stall indication/ time lessons have taught us most probably required when for many pilots. Every landing at number that is correct whether that in GA, it is probably more landing on the pitching deck of the right speed is that much less straight and level or in a turn. appropriate to remember “Angle an aircraft carrier at night. For wear and tear on brakes, tires and undercarriage. Increased of attack is life.”1

64 HIGHER ORDER: STRATEGIC AIR POWER

BETTER DESIGN OF AIRPORT PAVEMENTS

Roads are the lifeblood of an designs, and construction damage. Using a specially over the past four decades economy; at a cost of between techniques that extend designed heating/cooling and as a result, the CSIR is R15 million and R8 million for pavement life and expedite chamber, the surface of the recognised as one of the global a kilometre of highway with construction to minimise the pavement can be cooled leaders in pavement design a relatively short lifespan of impact on users. Evaluations down to below zero or heated and evaluation. At present, 20 to 40 years, a country’s include the impact of increased to above 60 °C to access 18 of these massive roadside roads infrastructure has to be tyre loads and tyre pressures the structural performance of laboratories have been scientifically constructed and on existing and proposed the pavement under extreme exported to active duty in the maintained to maximise cost- pavement structures. temperature conditions. Water USA, Sweden, China, South effectiveness. can also be introduced onto or Korea, Indonesia, Mexico, Runway applications inside the pavement. India, Saudi Arabia and Costa The CSIR-developed Heavy Rica. The HVS has also been The newer generation of Vehicle Simulator (HVS) is a The CSIR-developed HVS used for research in Finland, large aircraft have complex high-tech accelerated road- platform holds the key to better Slovenia and Poland, with gear configurations and high testing field lab with unique design of civilian and military two units available in South wheel loads. To assess the instruments that measure airport pavements. The HVS Africa, one belonging to the damage caused by these and analyse the engineering has been the pillar of the Gauteng Provincial Department ‘monster’ aircraft, the standard performance of runways or CSIR’s comprehensive research of Roads and Transport and HVS was upsized to test road structures and material programme carried out in the other to the CSIR. Over the airport pavement structures layers to test whether a conjunction with provincial, past 18 years, the international to a maximum wheel load specific road will have an national, and international programme has generated of 450 kN. The two HVS-A acceptable lifespan. With transport authorities. significant direct foreign income machines currently in use are the accelerated testing and for the country – brought home 37 m long, 5 m wide and can This platform has had a laboratory-associated research, as a result of quality research test pavements using full-size significant impact on pavement researchers can simulate the and technology development aircraft landing bogies and engineering in South Africa damage over 20 years caused and sound commercial decision- their wheel configurations. The and internationally by heavy traffic volumes to making. road structures within a short latest one was delivered to the time span of up to three Federal Aviation Administration months. These results are in Atlantic City, in the USA in invaluable to taking corrective 2012. action in road design and Environmental effects selecting the best construction on roads also under materials and methods when investigation planning the construction of long stretches of new roads. Apart from simulating the damaged caused by tyre The simulator can also be used loads, the HVS is able to to evaluate new or improved simulate environmental pavement materials, structural

65 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

Electronic defence systems:

66 THE DETECTIVES

RADAR DEVELOPMENT: 70 YEARS AND COUNTING Article contributed by Francois Anderson, a CSIR Chief Radar and Electronic Warfare Systems Engineer

The first radar echo in South Defence Force (SADF). Led by Dr and scientific advisor to the Prime TRL. They continued supporting Africa was received on the Basil Schonland at the Bernard Minister. In 1946 he formed the the SADF with propagation 16th of December in 1939. Price Institute for Geophysics (BPI) Telecommunications Research predictions in support of HF It signalled the beginning of a on the campus of the University Laboratory as one of the founding radio communications as well as field of science and technology of the Witwatersrand, the team institutions of the CSIR with nine radar acquisition, site selection that has since blossomed into a based their work on information core members drafted in from the and data network planning for modern, strategically important transferred from the United SSS Radar Team. One of them, the new air defence surveillance radar capability in South Africa Kingdom. Dr Trevor Wadley and his staff radar network established under to an extent unexpected in a went on to apply their wartime Operation Nassau to help protect The war years relatively small, developing knowledge and experience the industrial heart land of South Africa against air attack. country. The capability is During the war years, radar in radar to the invention and increasingly being utilised to development of the now famous expertise in Africa grew 1950s and 1960s help satisfy the country’s defence exponentially and within a Wadley Loop HF Receiver and security requirements. In this remarkably short period of time, and the Tellurometer, the first 1951 saw the beginning of the way, the local radar capability is the wartime radar network microwave electronic distance development at the CSIR of the contributing to increased peace, included 30 coastal radar stations measuring instrument in the JB51, a next-generation long- safety and security in southern in South Africa as well as mobile world. It was first demonstrated range surveillance radar for the Africa while helping save foreign radars deployed and operated in 1955, patented, industrialised South African Air Force (SAAF). exchange and contributing in East Africa and near the Suez and produced as the worldwide In 1957 a prototype of this radar to South Africa’s talent-based Canal. The team grew to consist golden standard in long distance was deployed at Pienaars River industrial development and job of 60 radar professionals at the surveying applications for north of Pretoria. For many years creation. BPI and 200 radar technicians. A decades, to be replaced only it was used by the SAAF in air staggering 500 female graduates in the 1990s by GPS-based defence training. Unfortunately, JB0 was the first South African were employed as radar surveying methods. However, when selecting the long-range radar demonstrator developed by operators. even today Tellurometers are surveillance radars to be used a team consisting of seven South still being used in a number of as part of their modernised air African engineers and scientists In 1945 Schonland established specialised applications, for defence radar network in the from South African universities. the CSIR at the request of Prime example inside mines. early 1960s, the SAAF project At the start of World War II, Minister Jan Smuts, who saw team decided against the use of the team was drafted into the science and technology as crucial After WWII, Schonland South African radars in favour of South African Army Corps of to the post-war reconstruction campaigned hard for continued radars produced in the UK. This Signals to form the core of the and growth of South Africa military related R&D at the CSIR subsequently led to the demise Special Signal Services (SSS), a and its fledgling industrial base. and succeeded in 1947 with of the original radar team’s work wartime codename for the radar Schonland was subsequently the establishment of the South on surveillance radars in South capability of the South African appointed as both CSIR President African Corps of Scientists at the Africa.

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However, this was not the end people in woody savannah of radar at the CSIR. In the early foliage on the northern borders led 1960s, the military authorities to a number of experiments and in South Africa concluded that the development of early versions the country had a strategic need of VHF foliage penetration radars. to follow the example of other militaries at the time and develop From the mid-1970s onwards a capability in missile design, this technology base in radar development, test and production. was used to develop another They approached the CSIR to capability that was seen as establish such a capability. In strategically important in the light 1963, this led to the establishment of the increasing threat perception of the National Institute for Rocket caused by the introduction of Soviet Research, to be greatly extended weapons systems into southern in 1965 into the National Institute Africa. This was the local design for Defence Research (NIDR). and development of electronic countermeasures (ECM) against The NIDR established R&D groups radars and of electronic counter- focusing on the design and counter measures (ECCMs) in development of the subsystems radars against such ECMs. During of modern missile systems at the the next decade, a range of locally time, including missile seeker designed microwave and antenna radars, altimeters and proximity components and first generation fuses as well as Ground Based digital processors were developed Air Defence System (GBADS) from first principles in support of surveillance and fire control ECCM hardening programmes radars. This renewed radar of SAAF and South African capability at the CSIR was Navy (SAN) radars. In addition, extended by another technology increasingly capable radar transfer, this time from France as warning receivers, self-protection part of the acquisition of a low- chaff and flare dispensers and level GBADS missile system for ELINT receivers were developed the South African Army. In March for use on South African aircraft 1964, 20 NIDR engineers were and ships. sent to France to take part in the development of the system called Towards the end of the ’70s, the the Crotale in France (renamed South African missile industry was the Cactus system in South Africa). finally established. Missile R&D, The target acquisition radar production facilities and staff were was an S-band pulse Doppler transferred from the CSIR to form radar while the target tracker Kentron (Pty) Ltd, a new company used for command-to-line-of-sight established by Armscor that later missile guidance was a Ku-band became Denel Dynamics. They monopulse tracking radar. nowadays perform the design and development of radar- 1970s based missile seekers in-house. Meanwhile, national defence During the early 1970s local R&D and test and evaluation teams at the NIDR designed, remained at the CSIR with a built and tested technology continuing focus on radar and demonstrators of missile-related electronic warfare (EW) research, radars including an X-band seeker development, test and evaluation and radar altimeter for a sea (RDT&E). skimmer missile and an X-band, coherent pulse compression 1980s and 1990s surveillance radar, intended for the modernisation of the Super The 1980s saw an escalation Fledermaus air defence gunnery in the requirements for the system of the South African Army. modernisation of both the South Requirements for detecting armed African Army and South African

68 THE DETECTIVES

Air Force GBADS. The radar its outdoor integration and part of a programme called A radar capability to be team at the CSIR utilised some testing environment on the CSIR AwareNet. To cover such wide proud of of the latest developments in campus and a transportable areas effectively, radars need to Ka-band technology to build sensor RDT&E command centre. be located on high sites looking In his overview of the history an experimental development down on the terrain or, where of radar in South Africa at the model of a range-only tracking Starting with training courses in such sites are not available, IEEE Radar Conference held in radar called NIMBUS, which the early 1980s, digital pulsed airborne radar technology is Johannesburg in October 2015, Doppler radar knowhow was was followed by the FYNKYK required. One option being Francois Anderson, Chief Radar established at the CSIR throughout pseudo-coherent monopulse explored is the use of aerostats and EW Systems Engineer at the 1980s and 1990s. Some tracking radar. FYNKYK as airborne radar platforms that the CSIR, remarked that over of this new-found capability became quite famous in the can be flown at low operating the past 75 years a surprisingly was used to provide technical South African Defence Force cost for periods as long as 30 strong radar capability for a support to the SAAF and Armscor (SADF) when, deployed as days at a time. small, developing country had during the acquisition of the part of the Red Forces during been built in South Africa. force preparation exercises, it airborne multifunction radar for In order to detect the small defeated SAAF countermeasures the Cheetah C fighter aircraft objects of interest in the Nowadays the country educates and flying tactics and was upgrade programme during the AwareNet programme, its own radar engineers with a credited with as many as 27 1990s and the radar for the (including small boats at sea; dedicated postgraduate radar ‘kills’ of ground attack fighter Gripen fighter during the 2000s. small, low-flying aircraft and course being presented at the aircraft during a single week of The MECCANO digital, pulsed individual people on foot University of Cape Town. It intensive ‘operations’. FYNKYK Doppler, monopulse tracking crossing the land borders); track performs independent radar digital monopulse tracking radar radar technology development them; classify them and estimate RDT&E at the CSIR and IMT. It technology was transferred to programme was contracted at the which of the thousands of has a number of mature radar industry during the late 1980s CSIR in 1989 and culminated in similar looking objects represent industries supported by a large the early 2000s with technology and formed the basis of the threats to which the country’s number of small, medium and transfer to and joint production newly created tracking radar defence and security forces micro enterprises (SMMEs) with RRS of high-performance division at ESD, now known as need to react, a range of new that together are capable of naval tracking radars. These Reutech Radar Systems (RRS). pulse Doppler radar detection, developing, industrialising, radars formed part of the optronic tracking, classification and data producing, integrating and During the 1980s and 1990s radar trackers (ORTs) that became fusion technologies are being maintaining radar systems the CSIR developed, built, operational in 2006 as part of developed. locally. Finally, at Armscor the maintained and operated a the air defence fire control system country has people specialising range of national facilities on the Valour Class Frigates of the The CSIR also recently restarted in the professional acquisition in support of radar and EW SAN. its SAR capability that had been of radar systems on behalf of RDT&E. Besides specialised on ice since the early 2000’s. In the late 1990s and up to the South African government. microwave, RF, digital and It plans to develop and fly a the early 2000s the CSIR These South African radar-related radar integration laboratories SAR demonstrator in 2016 and collaborated with UCT to at their buildings on the use it to investigate the use of organisations are represented develop a VHF polarimetric Pretoria campus of the CSIR, high resolution, polarimetric and in an officially registered body, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) these included the national interferometric SAR imaging, the South African Radar Interest system and fly it on a SAAF antenna measurement range at moving target detection and Group (SARIG). Dakota. The focus was on Paardefontein, a transportable radar target recognition for exploring foliage and ground Anderson concluded his wideband radar cross-section civilian and military applications. penetration applications. presentation with the following (RCS) measurement radar called The programme envisages the statement: “Our research is being FYNMEET, a reference tracker development of SAR systems for More recently published internationally and based on the FYNKYK tracking UAVs and in the longer term for South African radar engineers radar technology demonstrator, Besides the development of satellites. the STATIC inverse synthetic further enhancements of the have a strong international aperture RCS measurement tracking radar technology base Other modern technologies network and partners. It is a facility at Air Force Base in support of performance being developed include wonderful time to be a radar Waterkloof and an increasingly improvements of the ORTs during monostatic and multistatic engineer in South Africa and more capable range of digital the 2000s and early 2010s, phased array radar systems, we are looking forward to RF memory-based EW T&E the focus of the CSIR radar radar reflectivity calculations and an increasingly vibrant radar facilities called ENIGMA. area shifted to the development radar performance modelling industry in the country, capable In the 2000s these facilities of cost-effective wide area and calculations. All of these of satisfying important defence were extended to include persistent surveillance solutions are supported by a capability and security-related needs in the transportable MECORT for safeguarding the vast areas to validate the models and Africa with systems optimised for pulse Doppler tracking and around South Africa’s maritime, calculations by means of full- the conditions and requirements measurement radar facility, air and land border lines as scale measurements in the field. of our continent.”

69 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

The elusive radar, baffled experts and an unlucky politician: A SHORT STORY ON RADAR WARNING RECEIVERS

Article contributed by Christo Cloete, CSIR Electronic Warfare Systems Engineer

In the 1970s the CSIR was requested to design a Radar Warning Receiver to protect South African Air Force aircraft from Soviet Union-supplied surface-to-air missiles and fighters. In response, the CSIR designed the Radar Warning Receiver III, one of the first of its kind in Africa.

The system consisted of a four However, one specific radar on again, they would be able to enough information to establish the channel (spiral receiving antennas) being used at Lusaka Airport detect it. make, model and manufacturer 500 MHz to 18 GHz, crystal in Zambia remained unknown. of the radar. The unfortunate In 1975 South Africans saw detection receiver. Two extra To detect and define that politician remained unaware television broadcasting in their channels were later added radar, permission was given by of the fact that he unknowingly homes for the first time. One to enable the detection of the Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) to fly shared state secrets while being evening a news broadcast aired Spoon Rest radars A and B, these to the Kariba Dam, about interviewed and never knew the an interview with a politician at secrets he was giving away that worked in the 80 MHz and 150 km south of Lusaka. The mission proved unsuccessful as Lusaka Airport. Radar researchers night. 150 to 170 MHz region. The the team was unable to detect watching recognised the familiar channels were received by two the radar at Lusaka. A brave pilot ‘buzz’ of a search radar interfering South African electronic warfare large omnidirectional antennas researchers celebrated their first then decided to risk flying closer with the audio recorder. This sound that were fitted in the existing victory through the electromagnetic to Lusaka at 45 000 feet, which was promptly recorded on an wooden section of the Canberra spectrum. A lot has changed is above the maximum height of audio recorder when the news since 1970 with technological aircraft’s tail. The display had eight Zambia’s Rapier missiles. This broadcast was later repeated. advances in the electronic warfare lamps to indicate the direction too was unsuccessful as they still The recording was then analysed environment being achieved of the radar detected. To reduce could not detect the illusive radar. on a specialised computer system every year. The CSIR radar and radar signals being heard on The next day intelligence sources used to control a vibration test electronic warfare teams continue the intercom, each sector had a reported that the reason they station. This computer was able to push R&D boundaries through push button to disable the radar’s could not detect the radar was to run a Fast Fourier Transform that collaboration, innovation and sounds from that sector. An audio because it was unserviceable and determined the Pulse Repetition excellence. recorder captured the necessary in the process of being repaired. Interval and scanning pattern of the radar. This provided intelligence of all the intercepts. The South African Air Force then used the opportunity to conduct During that time all the known photo reconnaissance missions radars’ detection parameters were with the knowledge that there defined, and as test flights were was no search radar working. conducted, the system proved to The team remained hopeful that work exceptionally well. when the radar was switched

RWR3’s electronic box and display as fitted to the Canberra.

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71 Discussion and Questions

DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

AEROSTATS – TAKING A SECOND LOOK Article contributed by Francois Anderson, a CSIR Chief Radar and Electronic Warfare Systems Engineer

Criminals and adversaries use of advanced, integrated Medium size aerostats can systems during the Cold War are well versed in avoiding sensor systems, including remain airborne at heights up period resulted in the phasing detection. They know, for Doppler processing radars and to 1 500 m above the ground out of most aerostats and airships example, to operate at night or multispectral cameras to detect for periods up to Aerostar30 days at TIFduring-25K the latter being half of thelaunched in poor visibility, fly low using and track surface and low a time while carryingat Siouxpayload Falls,20th century. USA small aircraft or sail out from level air targets-of-interest and masses in the 300 kg to 500 kg Over the past two decades deserted beaches or small separate them from targets-not- range, thanks to a combination the need for long endurance harbours to big ships using small of-interest using a range of non- of buoyancy and lift generated airborne platforms with much inflatable boats. Even the most cooperative target classification by an aerodynamically shaped lower operating costs than fixed sophisticated wide area sensor and threat estimation techniques. body. This enables them to wing aircraft, helicopters and systems will have a hard time To obtain continuous low level remain within 13 degrees of even unmanned aerial vehicles finding them when they operate coverage over undulating the vertical above the mooring have seen aerostats regaining among similar, non-threatening terrain and to ranges beyond platform, even in winds as high 39 prominence in 4th-generation entities and at some unknown the normal radar horizon, such as 130 km/h. Aerostats are warfare, counter-insurgency, location along South Africa’s sensors need to be based on stabilised by tailfins and tethered counter-terrorism and border 4 471 km of land border line, high ground, or in areas without to the surface with a composite safeguarding operations. 2 798 km of maritime border access to appropriate mountains, tether that not only anchors the Improved aerostat envelope and line and the air border extending on airborne platforms. aerostat to its mooring platform, 7 660 km over both of these. tether materials combined with The CSIR AwareNet team but also provides fibre-optic better lighting protection, more The CSIR started its AwareNet became aware of the increasing communications links to its stable aerodynamic designs and programme in 2004 in response use of modern Aerostats in payload, three-phase power and enhanced standard operating to the border safeguarding security and 4th-generation an earth conductor for lightning procedures have dramatically requirements formulated by the Joint warfare operations. For protection and the prevention of reduced the risks involved Operations Division of the South example, the United States and static electricity build-up. in deploying and operating African National Defence Force, Britain used them extensively aerostats. Aerostats and air ships have the South African Army, South in Irak and Afghanistan to been in use as observation African Navy and South African Air provide situational awareness The USA, UK, Brazil, Russia and platforms since the French Force, as well as other members of and targeting information China, among others, currently Revolution, including during the Justice, Crime Prevention and to commanders. The team own operational aerostat systems the United States Civil War, Security Cluster of government. included an investigation into the and have deployed them to the 1899 South African War, The programme aims to develop possibility of utilising aerostats provide situation awareness as well as during both the technology required for much and air ships as low-cost, along land and coastal first and second world wars. improved situation awareness over long-endurance airborne sensor borderlines, near forward However, a number of well vast areas to increase the efficiency platforms into the AwareNet operations bases and to help and reduce the costs of these programme. published accidents including guard assets including national stakeholders’ operations. the Hindenburg disaster, the strategic installations such as Aerostats are lighter-than-air tremendous surge in heavier-than- power stations, oil platforms, The AwareNet programme aerial platforms using helium air aircraft development, and dams, and harbours as well as has been looking into the or hydrogen as a lifting gas. successes in air defence weapon targets for terrorists such as high

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THE DETECTIVES

visibility events at stadiums and and satellites. These include currently planning an aerostat African maritime, land and air convention centres. Ship-based the much-increased ranges to evaluation programme. This border areas as well as in a aerostats flying at 1 500 m the radar horizon, the reduced is planned to continue for wildlife park. above the surface and providing height of the null caused at low two years from early 2017. It If this programme proves up to 70 000 km² coverage of elevation angles by reflections includes the development of the successful, aerostats and the sea surface around a ship off the surface and greatly required capability to deploy the specialised sensors and can dramatically increase the reduced effects of terrain and fly aerostats safely and shadowing. However, unlike communications developed to efficiency of a maritime patrol in South Africa legally. It also aircraft- and satellite-borne exploit their unique characteristics vessel. includes experiments to measure radars, an aerostat-borne radar could become important and their movements and determine Aerostats are particularly is virtually stationary relative to relatively affordable force the performance of sensors the terrain below it. This allows multipliers for peace support well suited for ship-based and communications systems more persistent surveillance over and crime fighting operations in operations as the air over large areas than is possible with integrated on them. The project South Africa and in sub-Saharan TCOM 71M with Northrop AEWTCOM Radar 71M Programmable Radar the sea is usually quite aircraft-based radars. Relative to targets six locations in the South Africa. stable and provides for satellite radars, the higher update easy flying conditions. rates (seconds, rather than days) and higher sensitivity as required They can operate in up to detect small targets, are some to 130 km/h winds which of the advantages. In addition, even allows for operations also because they are relatively stationary above the terrain from fast-moving vessels. below it, aerostat-borne radars Aerostats can be deployed can achieve superior suppression Aerostar TIF-25K being launched from a helicopter flight of interfering echoes from the31 30 deck on a ship and then terrain and detect targets at very at Sioux Falls, USA low speeds while using relatively be tethered to another low-cost radar antennas and area of the ship to allow signal processing techniques. helicopter operations to Integrating avionics on an continue while the aerostat aerostat is also easier and much less costly than doing so on is flying. normal aircraft. 39 Potential advantages of Modern aerostats in Aerostat-borne radars South Africa Airborne radars operating from Aerostats of the sizes and What is an Aerostat System? aerostat platforms are being flying heights required for the developed internationally to operations described above detect low-flying aircraft and have not yet been flown in South Lockheed Martin PTDS (36 m) in Iraq • Lighter-than-air aerial platform cruise missiles as well as Africa. As a result, it is not known micro-light aircraft and to what extent environmental • Flies thanks to buoyancy and helicopters over both land and and logistical issues may affect aerodynamic lift generated by sea. Some are designed as the availability of systems lifting body when wind blows gap fillers for ground-based based on them. The potential air defences and for airspace described above had not yet • Can use helium or hydrogen control radars. Others are been verified by means of tests as lifting gas designed to safeguard maritime conducted under South African economic exclusion zones conditions and against current • Stabilized by tailfins from the coast to ranges that threats. Acquisition project teams • Tethered to a mooring platform would be over-the-horizon for a for wide area surveillance and normal coastal radar network. communications projects in • Tether provides strength Increasingly, aerostat radars South Africa have therefore been member, power, fibre-optic are also being used to help hesitant to include aerostat-based communications and earth safeguard land borders against systems as part of their solution conductor for lightning protection illegal immigrants, smugglers, options. and prevention of static traffickers and terrorists. The CSIR in its role as science electricity build-up Aerostat-borne radars share and technology partner of the many of the advantages of departments of Science and radars on surveillance aircraft Technology and Defence is 16 http://issuu.com/robcrimmins/docs/chapters1 and 2 73 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

Inundu is an isiZulu word for tiger moth – an insect that uses clicking sounds to disrupt and confuse INUNDU the finely tuned echolocation ability of bats, making it nature’s own cunning ‘acoustic warfare expert’. It is therefore a fitting monicker for a smart radar deception capability.

Channeling the ingenious radar mimicry of the cunning tiger moth

The CSIR has developed an innovative airborne electronic warfare capability that allows any aircraft to mimic the radar signatures of other aircraft, either to test new radar technologies or to fool opposing radar systems. Fitted with an Inundu pod an aircraft can pose as any type of friend or foe aircraft, as an incoming missile or even as a squadron of aircraft, making it possible to test electronic warfare systems in-flight, to intimidate enemies or to pass by opposing forces undetected and unhindered.

The Inundu technology support the growth and modular pod onto a plane “Imagine you want to test demonstrator pod was recently transformation of the local and being able to fool enemy an electronic warfare system fitted onto Denel’s Cheetah fighter radar into thinking you are a designed to confuse the industry.” jet for an important test flight as friendly aircraft, Inundu has tracking radar of a missile in part of the trials for this exciting ‘Look mom, I’m a missile!’ massive potential for the testing order to divert the missile, as a new technology. of new radar systems in real-life countermeasure. With Inundu, an The CSIR’s Inundu pod can be scenarios.” aircraft can make itself ‘look’ like Erlank Pienaar, Acting Executive viewed as a novel system for Director at the CSIR unit for a missile and the effectiveness of conducting airborne evaluation Radar and electronic warfare Defence, Peace, Safety and the new system to identify and and testing of radar and are critical elements of a defence Security, views the recent disrupt a missile can be tested electronic defence capabilities. capability. It requires specialist successful test flight as a historical in-flight, live, without actually The modular payload can be infrastructure to accurately event. having to fire a real missile at the reconfigured for various research, measure and analyse targets development, test, evaluation test bed.” “The platform will play and to test the effectiveness and training scenarios. Inundu of countermeasures. While The Inundu system is the product a crucial role in our has the unique ability to perform laboratory tests are useful of a collaboration between technology development experimentation and testing live, indicators of a system’s aeronautical and radar and in the air. effort in advanced performance, the ultimate test electronic warfare engineers at electronic warfare, as “Apart from the obvious benefit of systems for aircraft, is in-flight the CSIR – plus a team of partners well as in our efforts to of being able to easily fit a performance validation. from industry.

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The pod is similar in look, size The main use of Inundu will be will automatically switch on at a Yanga Tekane and Mcebisi and mass to the BL-755 store, to evaluate the effectiveness of certain distance from the target Solilo gained valuable, practical which was a popular choice on electronic warfare interventions. base stations and switch off at knowledge in the radar and fighter aircraft. This means that It also allows engineers to another predefined distance. All electronic warfare domain. The many fast jet types such as the experiment with different of this happens automatically. duo have started working with BAE Systems Hawk, Alpha Jet, electronic warfare techniques CSIR engineers to apply their Testing scenarios using Inundu Hawker Hunter, F-16, Tornado, and is an excellent platform for skills by developing the Inundu’s can also be used to train F-4 Phantom and the Mirage the training of young electronic CSIR-designed ram air turbine, electronic warfare and radar III can carry the system without engineers. to serve as an energy source to operators against airborne requiring a costly store integration replace the current battery-driven Inundu has become a mechanism threats. Such exercises assist with programme. power pod. for the establishment of much operational support for doctrine The technical details needed small enterprises in the development and optimisation, as Special focus is placed on radar and electronic warfare well as acceptance testing of new developing the radar and The radome in the front of the sector. Through the establishment systems. electronic warfare sector in South pod supports radio frequency of a Defence Transformative Africa as it has been identified The payload is temperature transmission and reception. Enterprise Development as a sovereign capability in the controlled and isolated from Inundu underwent stringent Programme, the CSIR and the 2014 Defence Review. The shock and vibration. A platform- weather and wind testing Department of Defence are CSIR aims to contribute to this independent power supply is during 2015. By September using this opportunity to transfer capability by developing the currently being developed. The of that year, it was ready for its technology to a set of small, country’s intellectual and skills simulator hardware in the pod is capital in the radar and electronic first flight trials to evaluate the medium and micro enterprises based on high-resolution digital warfare domain. effect of fast-jet flight on the pod (SMMEs) and to train their radio frequency memory, radar structure and to characterise its engineering base. signal processing, and data All along the watchtower internal environment before the capturing and radio frequency final electronics payload was The Inundu pod interfaces with The South African National technology developed by the added. The electronics payload a base station via a telemetry Defence Force has an extensive CSIR. was subsequently flown and link for in-flight control. The pod’s and diverse border to protect from on-board equipment includes successfully demonstrated at the Valuable training platform land, air and maritime threats. 2015 Paardefontein deployment an inertial measurement unit Radar and electronic warfare that coincided with the Electronic used for determining position As part of an industry measures and counter-measures Warfare South Africa conference. and velocity in space and time, development project that aims can provide armed forces with as well as a global positioning to allow engineers who own much needed information during Over the past few months, the system, which enables scripted, or are employed by SMMEs to safety and security operations focus has been on developing waypoint programming of work alongside seasoned CSIR along national borders. a ram-air turbine that allows the modes and techniques. This engineers to further develop Technology such as the Inundu pod to generate its own power, means that the pod can perform their skills, two engineers from pod can significantly contribute to independently of the parent according to pre-established Sovereignty Systems joined the training of operators and the aircraft. This upgrade will greatly behaviour based on defined the CSIR team during the development of technologies used facilitate aircraft integration. conditions. For example, the pod development of the Inundu pod. in border safeguarding.

75 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

ADVANCING TOWARDS NEXT GENERATION RADAR: NON-COOPERATIVE TARGET RECOGNITION

Since World War II radar has resolution measurements, which As threats reduce in well as tutorial presentations at played an essential role in the when combined with a target’s size, radar recognition IEEE Radar Conferences. Aided detection of objects that pose movement can be used to produce by the recent well-publicised technology can assist by possible threats to nations. This two-dimensional Inverse Synthetic advancements in machine has proved to be immensely Aperture Radar (ISAR) images. classifying detections as learning, radar recognition is valuable. However, merely Other recognition technologies birds or UAVs, providing going to be a critical component knowing that something is developed include micro-Doppler the operator with a more in the new generation of intelligent present and not being able to techniques that exploit information filtered, uncluttered radar systems. The CSIR has an identify it, limits the ability to provided by the method of established competence base from respond appropriately. In military view that allows focused propulsion of a target, such as which to impact the development operations the inability to correctly rotors, propellers, turbine blades, attention on objects that are of these systems through identify an object can be the wheels, tracks, or limbs. actually of interest. partnerships with industry. source of significant problems that include fratricide, deception With the increasing threat The development of a target Radar target recognition by decoys and acting on tracks recognition capability at the CSIR of terrorists using drones as signatures: (Top) ISAR originating from objects that are started in 2001. Over more than not of interest. In operations other weapon delivery platforms, a decade, the team has produced images of aircraft and than war, unidentified objects non-cooperative target results and technology that have maritime vessels and cause inefficiency or even failure recognition can contribute been increasingly recognised in the policing of poaching, (Bottom) Micro-Doppler greatly to building globally. This is evidenced by a smuggling, piracy and terrorism. number of local and international modulation from different defences against these collaborations on the topic as classes of aircraft. As a result, radar-based threats. non-cooperative target recognition has received widespread Many of the smaller drones attention from researchers globally are specifically chosen by working in both the military terrorists because they are and civilian environments. As a difficult to detect visually. sensor, radar offers significant Radar systems able to detect advantages through its long-range objects that are small will performance; the ability to operate also detect targets that are in diverse weather conditions, and not of interest, such as birds. during the day or night. Detecting and tracking these As a well-respected radar sensor targets places strain on data research and development processing resources and institution, the CSIR has developed makes it nearly impossible technology that enables early for a human operator information gathering for object monitoring the radar display identification. These radar target to pay close attention to all recognition techniques make of the information presented. use of information related to a Consequently, detections target’s physical characteristics, and tracks that are of interest such as shape, length, width, or may go unnoticed and wingspan. These characteristics unexamined, leaving areas are measured using high-range to be protected exposed.

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PHASED ARRAY DEVELOPMENT

The CSIR recently developed affordable and cost-effective phased array radar technology. The innovative design allows for low-cost, steerable phased array transmit antennas. Coupled with multi-channel digitally beam-formed receive arrays using low-cost compact receivers developed in collaboration with Lochtron, these exciting technology developments will pave the way to reduced size, weight and power for next generation radar concept demonstrators and measurement facilities.

After 20 years STILL THE PULSE OF NATIONAL RADAR CAPABILITY

Enigma 4 is a multi-channel electronic warfare simulation system used for target characterisation.

Information technology consists of two subsystems, namely the Radio Frequency Environment Simulator (RFES) and the Electronic Warfare System (EWS). The RFES has two channels that can be used to simulate two independent radars simultaneously. It is used to simulate moving target echoes with correct frequency, power modulation as well as accurate return time. The RFES can also receive the instantaneous target distance data and simulate a variety of different jamming modes. The EWS makes use of instantaneous frequency measurement technology that provides the system with an immediate situational awareness capability of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Users of the technology include the South African Air Force and Navy, local research institutes as well as international research institutes where the CSIR has the opportunity for skills and technology transfer and joint technology development. At the CSIR, such a system is used for ongoing research. The CSIR radar and EWS outputs are built to be used in combinations to establish robust, complex, integrated electronic defence platforms.

77 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

SEWES EXPOSES MODERN ELECTRONIC WARFARE ENGAGEMENTS

Fifteen years ago, the approach engagement tool. It is a key models. The parameter level outputs are export ready and of ‘know your enemy’ was all a capability in the radar and simulation of the systems and user-friendly for other applications pilot needed on the battlefield. He electronic warfare research interactions are modelled to a as well as display and or she had a ready plan of action groups within the CSIR, for a detailed level. All relevant system visualisation. for certain predictable outcomes, number of reasons. parameters in the simulation can he even had a few minutes to be displayed and stored while A plan of action should be It is pivotal in planning, training implement new manoeuvres when the engagement scenario is established before entering and effectiveness evaluation challenged with unforeseen and visualised in 3D. the battlefield, due to the that ensures mission success. life-threatening conditions. The The simulated environment gives Architecture sophistication of present-day complexities of modern radar future buyers the opportunity to electronic warfare engagement and electronic warfare systems, simulate systems of interest to The innovative architecture environments. The ability to coupled with an increasing predict performances, aiding in enables the user to easily develop elaborative scenarios number of unknown threats, acquisition decision-making. modify the simulation to specific and evaluating key factors however, presents significant requirements and to interoperate improves the protection of challenges to the modern pilot. with other simulations. It allows Modelling and simulation platforms, such as aircraft. for a fully scalable distributed SEWES (Sensors and Electronic is the preferred scientific SEWES offers fundamental simulation in terms of the number Warfare Engagement Simulation) approach to developing of platforms in the simulation, system parameters that aid in is a few-on-few electronic computational models of the number of systems that the development of electronic warfare simulation environment. the platforms or systems can be added to the various warfare. The platform also Any number of platforms, platforms and the number of provides information, such of interest. For instance, consisting of any number of processing units in the cluster. as the distance at which an sensors and warfare simulation knowing how to respond Naval, air or ground platforms aircraft is detectable, or how systems can engage each other to threats can be tackled can be selected. Each platform effective a particular jammer in a simulated environment. The by modelling the threat has its own command and is against electronic counter platform is used by defence control function which manages and simulating it against measures. It is able to ensure the research institutes for research all interactions between the best performance of electronic and development and by a model of one’s own various system models. It is also warfare systems against defence contractors for system system. responsible for the logging and development and optimisation. display of the timeline behaviour unfamiliar threats. The Matlab and Simulink of the systems. Developed in the early 2000s environments provide an With the strong modelling and SEWES has proven itself to the advantage in terms of rapid Visual dislay and management simulation capability of SEWES, extent that it is an internationally prototyping, readability and of the simulation enable quick the survivability of pilots is recognised electronic warfare understandability of implemented and easy operation. Generated enhanced.

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SigmaHat is a radar the profile. The parameters scattering prediction tool of these scattering points for large complex objects. It are exported to SEWES, can provide estimates of the which integrates the data The digital radio frequency as single point reflections RCS of naval, air or ground into the scenario simulation. memory (DRFM) is the with only one pulse played platforms. In the integrated SigmaHat’s real-beam image hardware closing the loop back per target. The latest setup, platform-profile shows the distribution of the with the radar under test module simulates targets information from SEWES platform’s scattered field that responds in real time as a collection of point can be used by SigmaHat intensity, indicated as varying to radar signals. The DRFM scatterers. It is essentially to calculate the RCS for all colour profiles. SigmaHat records pulses received multiple DRFMs in one. This target aspect angles in a is based on innovative from the radar system, and DRFM represents a high profile. calculation techniques which then plays the recorded standard of capabilities in provide a blend of scale, pulses back towards the high-speed mixed signal The RCS data are then speed and accuracy, perfectly radar, which now perceives hardware, firmware and used to extract dominant suited to radar and electronic these pulses as reflections digital signal processing. scattering points of the warfare applications. from a target. Traditionally, platform for each frame in DRFMs simulate targets

SEWES’ visualisation and analysis tool depicting a ground platform with a tracking radar and surface- to-air missile against an airborne aircraft with jammer on board. The aircraft jammer responds by jamming the tracking radar, successfully evading the tank’s surface-to-air missile. The detailed graphs display the power of the targets in the radar tracking gate allowing for in-depth analysis.

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Passive radar research makes a comeback Research in passive radar technology development is a joint effort between the CSIR, Armscor, the University of Cape Town and Peralex Electronics.

Passive radars do not transmit any Passive radars are still seen as signals, they only receive. They an emerging technology in the Apart from having exploit illuminators of opportunity international radar community and massive practical as their source of electromagnetic are yet to gain market acceptance applications, the passive illumination, which means they for industrialisation. A factor not receive signals that are already in on the side of industrialisation radar performance the air. This is in contrast to active is the lack of the performance characterisation study will radars that do their own heavy lifting characteristics of such systems be well recognised within by emitting and receiving signals. (over an extended period of time) the global passive radar as opposed to traditional active community. Passive radar architecture was radars that are well characterised. the first step in the development of To address this technology gap, the active radars, taking a backseat CSIR’s radar and electronic warfare when active radar research research groups are developing a became prominent. “Interest in national multi-static passive radar passive radars experienced a facility to gather sufficient data for recent resurgence due to the the characterisation of the detection increasing congestion of the and tracking performance of electromagnetic spectrum over a locally developed frequency the last decade,” says Francois modulation (FM) based passive Maasdorp, a CSIR radar specialist. radar. They aim to complete the performance characterisations Apart from being a low-cost (this includes varying weather alternative, passive radar conditions) in the next three years. systems offer other benefits Knowledge gained could then be as well. They are smaller and used to motivate passive radar more mobile, a perfect fit for technology as a reliable and covert operations in both the cost-effective sensor to be used in military and civil domains. situational awareness applications. Three possible applications As a result, radar R&D giants may include air traffic control in Lockheed Martin, Thales, areas where there is a lack of Cassidian, BAE and Selex, as infrastructure (specifically in Africa), well as academic and research peacekeeping mission support institutions are enthusiastically and to fill the current gaps in investing great effort into studying active radar networks in the border passive radar technology. safeguarding environment.

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Established in 2011, the Paardefontein satellite radiometric calibration site was developed with Department of Science and Technology funding. Located far away from the ocean and other immediate sources of atmospheric aerosols (in northern Gauteng), it is perfectly suited for CalVal operations. Optronic sensor systems SATELLITE CALIBRATION AND VALIDATION

Space technology increasingly given the capability to perform provides essential information for measurements that are traceable socio-economic areas, such as to international standards, sustainable water, food security, therefore giving credibility to biodiversity, logistics and measurements performed with renewable energy. Applications the calibrated instrument. CalVal of satellite data will make key activities span the complete contributions to innovative lifecycle of a satellite mission services and significantly from conception through to de- improve the international market orbiting or disposal. position of these sectors. When the provision of data from space The CSIR, in collaboration with is guaranteed, many more smart the South African National applications can be developed. Space Agency and other partners, has developed a Calibration and validation first-of-its-kind capability in (CalVal) processes for southern Africa to effectively earth observations form perform CalVal operations for earth observation systems. the foundation of quality The first South African satellite data products, fit for radiometric calibration purpose and trusted field campaign using the by the scientific user Paardefontein site, took place in July 2014 for a two-week community. period. A resounding success, Calibration is defined as the the campaign proved that the process of determining the South African space community quantitative response of a is a world leader in this field system or measuring instrument, and should pave the way for to known and controlled inputs. the eventual establishment of a It is the fundamental process complete space capability in the by which an instrument is country.

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An L-band synthetic aperture radar image of an agricultural region in the Western Cape, created using a CSIR developed airborne synthetic aperture radar system.

MODERN REMOTE SENSING: SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR

Article contributed by Dr Jaco de Witt, CSIR Principal Radar Engineer

Synthetic aperture radar has been established globally as a key remote sensing technology with applications in both the military and civil domains. The CSIR has been using synthetic aperture radar imagery collected by foreign sensors in a variety of applications ranging from marine domain awareness to the mapping and monitoring of forested biomes. The CSIR is also developing synthetic aperture radar sensor technology aimed at manned and unmanned airborne platforms in order to exploit lower cost synthetic aperture imagery in selected applications.

Modern remote sensing has employs radio waves that phenomena because of the The number of possible come a long way since the are emitted from an antenna technology’s typical operating synthetic aperture radar advent of photography by placed on a moving platform frequencies. Cloud cover, mist remote sensing applications Joseph Nicéphore Niépce in to form an image of the or dust will however negatively are growing at a rapid rate, the nineteenth century. Today, illuminated area. The end affect optical systems. ranging from mapping, a multitude of highly advanced result resembles a grayscale disaster management sensors are being used both aerial photograph (with some Synthetic aperture radar and precision agriculture, on satellite and airborne significant differences). As a imaging contains intensity to military and security platforms to enable the remote sensing technology, information (strength of the applications. monitoring and understanding synthetic aperture radar received signal) as well One of the most well-known of our planet and the universe complements and offers as phase information (the applications of synthetic in which it exists. These substantial advantages specific position in the cycle aperture radar is land-cover sensors are not limited to only over passive sensors, such of the waveform) for each and land-use classification. optical sensors and include as cameras or telescopes pixel in the scene. This means This provides a description both passive and active currently operating in the that it is possible to detect of the physical material sensors operating within other optical domain. changes between two images that covers the surface of a regions of the electromagnetic of a scene which may be Synthetic aperture radar particular area, for example, frequency spectrum. All of as small as a fraction of the sensors are active sensors grasslands, forest, water these provide unique benefits transmit signal wavelength for particular applications. that transmit their own energy, or bare soil. In addition to (typically a few centimetres), comparable to an optical standard features in the radar even though the resolution Synthetic aperture radar has imaging sensor employing a image that relate to shape or of the image may be much been established as a key powerful flashlight to illuminate texture, land cover or land use coarser. This allows for remote sensing technology an area of interest. This applications may also analyse example the detection of for both civil and military characteristic enables both the polarisation information newly formed tyre tracks in applications, with an ever- day and night use. of each image pixel. This increasing presence in the sand or the detection of the polarisation information airborne and space-borne The sensors are also cutting of vegetation in an reveals clues relating to the arena. This technology unaffected by most weather area. scattering mechanisms that

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detect small, centimetre-scale academic institutions height changes in the areas and various government of interest. This capability departments, including the becomes extremely useful in South African National applications concerned with Defence Force. Ultimately, monitoring subsidence, for the CSIR would like to apply instance in areas of mining synthetic aperture radar activity. technology to improve the quality of life of people in The CSIR makes use of South Africa and Africa. synthetic aperture radar data collected by foreign sensors in various research and Remote sensing: development activities, such as Extracting information An optical (left) and synthetic aperture radar image (right) maritime domain awareness, over Salton Trough, Mexico. The SAR image has the surface subsidence monitoring from an object without polarisation information of the scene embedded as false (a downward shift of the making physical contact colour, providing a clear distinction between different crop earth’s surface over time) in with it. In the context types and growth stages, as well as man-made structures mining areas, and sink holes of this article, remote and the natural environment. Optical data courtesy of in urban areas. The CSIR is Google, UAVSAR data courtesy of NASA/JPL-Caltech. also exploiting data to map sensing refers to forested biomes in order to gathering information estimate woody biomass on a were responsible for the return, making it, for instance, possible about the earth or our national scale. to more clearly discern man-made objects such as buildings universe by means of from trees, fields or crops in the natural environment. In the marine environment, sensors on-board aircraft the CSIR uses synthetic Synthetic aperture radar images can also be used to generate and satellites. aperture radar data to derive digital terrain models by comparing the phase information high-resolution ocean wind, from two images of the same scene recorded at different Typical operating wave and surface-current heights. If repeated over time, it is possible to construct a frequencies of synthetic information to investigate differential synthetic aperture radar interferogram able to physical processes in coastal aperture radar systems: and shelf regions. A three-year Most satellite-based strategic research programme Synthetic Aperture is currently focused on the Radar systems operate combined use of synthetic aperture radar technology and at frequencies ranging optical systems to monitor key between L-band planning parameters in urban (1-2 GHz) and X-band and peri-urban environments. (8-12GHz), while To unlock lower-cost airborne Synthetic exploitation of synthetic Aperture Radar sensors A differential synthetic aperture radar interferogram (left) aperture radar imagery, may operate as low as generated by the CSIR shows an area undergoing surface the CSIR is developing subsidence due to shallow underground mining. The airborne synthetic aperture VHF (30-300MHz)or as associated deformation map (right) reveals that almost radar sensor technology high as Ka-band 33 cm of deformation took place over the 46-day period. aimed at unmanned aerial (27-40 GHz), with vehicles and further down extreme examples the line, satellites. This local sensor, image formation operating at even and application capability higher frequencies. will benefit local industry,

A CSIR concept design for an X-band synthetic aperture radar sensor payload for an unmanned aerial vehicle, enabling left or right-looking imaging geometries.

83 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

An example of a standard output of SigmaHat, called a real beam image (RBI) shows the distribution of the platform’s scattered field intensity, indicated as varying colour profiles. BEYOND the radar: Making the most of measurements

The advantage of radar This approach rules out many of in platform modelling and RCS modular radar system cross section (RCS) the challenges of measurement – calculation. designed to be used for RCS including making it easier to obtain measurements of objects measurement is that the extensive coverage in a This is the result of research in from an airborne platform. output represents ‘the real cost effective way. RCS conducted since the 1980s. The capability can be used Measurement facilities developed world’. Measurements are to measure the RCS of large When it comes to targets, RCS and employed by the CSIR include: objects such as ships and of actual, known platforms provides signature data to evaluate record radar research data – Ground based dynamic – be that a chopper or detectability, classification and such as environment returns management performance of RCS measurement facilities: fighter aircraft; making as recorded from an airborne sensor systems, develop doctrine, Systems used to perform RCS platform. use of purpose designed specify or develop new radar in a number of operational, measurement Radar. sensors for specific targets – again test and evaluation exercises, Since 2008, the CSIR has actively with the benefit of ongoing testing on acquisition decision been involved in the development of The downside? Firstly, measuring and evaluation to ensure an support and to support several custom Radar signature calculation platforms is an expensive optimal capability. research programmes. Second software. The tools originated from a exercise. Also, the calibration generation facilities are also specific requirement for generation of In this way, the true benefits of RCS of radar sensors is complicated capable of performing high Radar signature data that could not data can be realised: The owner of and measuring a platform from resolution RCS, evaluation of be satisfied with the existing products platforms can better manage radar all aspects can be problematic. countermeasure (chaff and on the market. The resultant software signatures and test detectability and It is difficult to get full coverage, jammer), training on radar toolbox, named SigmaHat, is used classification by enemy sensors. including frequency, angle, systems, acceptance testing and for the calculation and analysis of This also means the ability to resolutions, etc. In this process of evaluation of electronic attack the radar cross section (RCS) and develop improved self-protection flight measurement campaigns, the and platform protection systems. other electromagnetic (EM) scattering systems and amending doctrine. All costs escalate quickly. features of objects of interest in of these can then again be tested – Ground based static turntable radar and electronic warfare (EW) Enter the world of simulated and evaluated. RCS measurement facility: Used in more controlled engineering. It is based on asymptotic reality. Creating a modelling and This does not imply the modelling environment a RCS range is (high frequency) EM calculation simulation environment enables solution is simple. It is critical used to measure an airborne techniques and can be used to greater control and flexibility to obtain highly accurate, platform where the target is calculate and predict the RCS of because the software and model electromagnetically representative in the near field of the radar, electrically large complex 3D objects can be reconfigured. Modelling CAD models of the platform and and corrections for the distance such as aircraft, land vehicles and enables details investigation into results need to be validated. is made, using sophisticated ships. The innovative implementation dominant contributors to the RCS With a suite of electromagnetic software. of the calculation techniques provides of a platform. (For example, modelling tools – many of these a blend of scale, speed and investigating an aircraft with self-designed – the CSIR has – Airborne dynamic RCS accuracy, perfectly suited to radar and various payloads.) established a mature capability measurement system: A electronic warfare (EW) applications.

84 THE DETECTIVES Building a stronger NATIONAL CYBER INTELLIGENCE NETWORK

Cyber attacks are on the increase in severity, complexity Partnerships in cyber defence and frequency, negatively affecting citizens, government and businesses. Security and defence stakeholders in many developing Stakeholders in the defence and security environment need to countries are short of the required capacity and capability to start sharing cybersecurity threat intelligence in an inherently adequately defend and protect the national cyberspace against collaborative manner that requires cooperation among members of fast moving and persistent threats and attacks. the cybersecurity community. Since sharing of threat intelligence can also occur at strategic, tactical and operational levels, it is important Within the cyber domain, the various defence force roleplayers that an appropriate sharing model is formulated and agreed upon can no longer rely on traditional solutions to detect, defend and by those involved. respond to the forever changing cyber threats and cyber attacks. In order to improve cybersecurity risks and strengthen the cyber The model needs to first focus on stakeholders’ involved resilience of the nation, strategic cybersecurity information sharing understanding of their operating environments; if an organisation in the defence environment must take priority. does not understand its assets, infrastructure, personnel and business operations, it cannot understand if it is presenting opportunities Threat intelligence to malicious actors. The information being shared among the stakeholders in the defence environment must also be at the level Threat intelligence is not a new phenomenon; it has been in higher than cyber information, which is mostly useful in reactive existence ever since defence forces have sought for actionable operations (e.g. cyber incidents, observables, and indicators of intelligence information to give their army the upper hand, either in compromise). The cybersecurity threat intelligence involved should decision-making when weighing attack against evading or when be contextual and actionable, and enable proactive and predictive information can be used to detect and prevent attacks. responses to cyberattacks and cybercrimes. It should be possible to provide operational information about threat actors, their campaigns, Threat intelligence services analyses information about the intent, cyber behaviours, and their tools, techniques and procedures. This opportunity and capability of malicious actors. The challenge, information shared between various stakeholders in the military however, lies in the collection, analysis and interpretation of raw environment could prove vital in threat intelligence. data used in creating threat intelligence. Raw data can be difficult to understand, which makes basing an actionable decision on it Sharing lessons learned and cybersecurity best practices between complicated. allies will yield a resilient and better protected cyberspace.

In order to combat fast-moving cyber threats, cyberattacks and The CSIR is currently in the process of the establishing a custom cybercrimes, organisations need to have the most immediate cyber threat intelligence platform for the exchange of threat threat intelligence information available. This is only possible information to support South Africa and other SADC countries. if organisations have the ability to quickly gather, analyse and This platform will consist of several threat sources as well as the turn raw data from different sources into usable actionable threat opportunity to anonymously add threats identified in participants intelligence essential to cyber defence. As cybersecurity challenges networks. The threat intelligence platform will make it easier for South are multi-disciplinary by nature, no single organisation can address African organisations to proactively respond to cyber incidents and them on their own. at the same time prevent cyber-attacks before they occur.

85 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

The Network Emulation and Simulation Laboratory can be accessed via the Internet or through a facility located at the CSIR Pretoria campus in South Africa’s Gauteng province. The facility allows for the physical testing of IT security devices.

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NETWORK EMULATION AND SIMULATION VIRTUAL LABORATORY FOR IT SECURITY TESTING

Information technology is conduct various tests focusing and tools test the concepts ingrained in every aspect of on securing the implementations with the simulation of real- modern life. However, the before deployment. Time and world legitimate traffic that Network Emulation duality of cyberspace has funding required to develop includes malware, resulting Simulation Laboratory been highlighted by daily these mechanisms has proven in the identification of criminal activities targeting not costly and ineffective. One security vulnerabilities and capabilities include: only organisations but also reason for this is attributed to ineffectiveness in computer individuals. the fact that the development of – Configuration networks. Therefore, these mechanisms takes place the laboratory provides validation The evolution of technology has in an environment that does given birth to two new concepts cybersecurity researchers not resemble the operational – Ne twork whereby these technologies will environment. with the ability to perform further advance cyberspace network bandwidth modelling, performance and into the physical space of In response, the CSIR cybersecurity training, device behaviour testing society: The Internet of Things developed a Network research and advanced (IoT) and Smart Cities. Both Emulation and Simulation analytics to study cyber risks – Security and testing these technologies are in their Laboratory that provides a in an environment that mirrors infant phase and are inherently platform for the high fidelity – User experience reality. insecure for various reasons, replication of existing or and training including miss configuration planned networks through a This enables the delivery of and vulnerabilities in computer mixture of physical and virtual tested, proven, effective and – Emulation of networks. devices. practical security solutions. environments As a country’s critical The platform caters for the The platform is ideal for use for advanced by researchers, including infrastructure can be exposed design, development and cybersecurity through the integration deployment of cybersecurity postgraduate students in product research of IoT and Smart Cities processes and tools which cybersecurity as well as implementations, the need resemble the production companies developing exists to develop a platform to environment. These processes cybersecurity products.

87 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

HACKINGCyber defence expert Schalk Peach shares some insights about101 the hacking world.

Hacking is not a bad or dark art. It only really becomes something to fear when the hacker decides to exploit stolen information for personal gain or to advance an ideal. If you really feel that you have a knack for computers and computer systems, you should consider a career as a cyber defence expert. In my line of work I get access to some of the most technologically advanced network and security systems in the world. An added benefit is that I get to work for the good guys.

Hacker idealism has stolen the to gain access to features ‘The Mentor’, a famous identity is known he or she is hearts and minds of many IT previously hidden can be hacker who made a name definitely not formidable. enthusiasts. Global headlines considered a hacker. for himself back in 1983, have named the practice One of the most interesting How did you first as a formidable force when wrote an article titled ‘The hacking incidents I’ve come come into contact with conventional methods of Conscience of a Hacker’ across is a group of Russian hacking? gaining access to information shortly after he was hardware hackers who are busy have failed. For example, the reverse engineering the original Unfortunately, mine is not a arrested. In it he offered hacker group, Anonymous, has unique story. The 1995 movie, PlayStation’s central processing an interesting insight into exposed corruption in multi- Hackers, and its over-stylisation unit to build a better emulation national organisations and of hacking played a big part. the type of personality system. governments it perceives as That, coupled with my interest that would be drawn to ‘false’ or corrupt. The hacking group in computers, made following hacking. a career in all things cyber Anonymous has made Let us start at the very logical. I think I specifically “I’m in junior high or high headlines all over the beginning, call it hacking became a cyber defence expert school. I’ve listened to teachers world. A friend to value 101. What is it? because my mom instilled a explain for the fifteenth time or foe to fear? Hacking is the art of gaining deep respect of the law in how to reduce a fraction. I me. It will always outweigh access to systems and understand it. “No, Ms Smith, I It really depends on who any perceived reward illegal information that is considered didn’t show my work. I did it in you are. If you are hiding hacking may offer. private. This may include my head...” Damn kid. Probably information that can potentially copied it. They’re all alike.” personal data stored on Stieg Larsson’s The Girl expose you, especially in areas home computers or sensitive where you are endangering with the Dragon Tattoo Since its publication the article information stored on secure portrayed hackers has been widely published human rights, animal rights, are network servers owned by as dark, mysterious and accepted by many as the a danger to the environment massive organisations such as individuals who simply hacker’s manifesto. or plan acts of terrorism, banks, government agencies or cannot follow the rules. Anonymous is definitely not your industries. The threat of hacking Is that, in your opinion, Who is the most friend. If, however, you abide lies in the potential to exploit the average personality impressive hacker in by the law, you need not fear information gained for profit or of a hacker? your opinion? them directly. Their acts may political advancement. The typical hacker has an The most formidable hackers in indirectly affect you if they target In the wider term of the word, inquisitive nature. They feel a need my mind are those who labour a company they perceive to be any person that modifies a to know what information is being for passion and not for gain ‘evil’ and gain access to your component or exploits a process hidden and why it is hidden. or notoriety. If the hacker’s real personal information.

88 THE DETECTIVES SOCIAL MEDIA A GATEWAY FOR CYBER WARFARE? How to stay safe when using social media:

– Restrict the people who can view your profile by selecting the strongest parameters in the security settings on Facebook; – Limit the amount of personal information available on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; – Frequently monitor your Facebook security settings – Facebook is known to make regular changes; and – Test that you are protected by using graph search on other profiles to check what personal information on your account is available to friends and strangers.

Arguably one of the greatest through computers – are being attacks. Many social media The security threat dimensions threats to personal, national described as weapons of mass users are not aware of these violated by the graph and international security, disruption for individuals in attacks and do not understand search feature includes cyber-conflict has also society, businesses, governments how these platforms could be privacy, confidentiality and become part of modern-day and countries alike. Originally used against them. authentication that leaves the warfare. The interconnection designed for communication digital door open for identity Facebook’s graph of communications systems in between researchers, the theft, vandalism, harassment, search cyberspace is the backbone of Internet has become a global stalking and spam. tool with a proliferation of the information exchange that With over a billion active users, devices, from laptops to Facebook’s graph search integrates and synchronises Facebook is one of the biggest smartphones, connecting to it. could also be used for cyber national infrastructure in most social media sites in the world. This means that cyberspace warfare purposes. Terrorists and countries in the world today. A It encourages friends and – all the parts of the World ‘hacktivists’ can use it to identify backbone that is critical to the people with similar interests Wide Web – has become a targeted group of people economy and national security to share information such as virtually uncontrollable. of a country. messages, pictures, videos, with specialised criteria, such as location, interests, Social media has been widely website links and other digital While there is great benefit age and political views. The adopted as part of everyday media. With a large number from fast connectivity and vastly information could be used to life in society. By using social of active users, Facebook increased data storage space recruit potential members for media, users are meeting upgraded its searching of Internet broadband, it has an organisation, or to plan like-minded people, discussing capability to enable a graph also increased exposure to the attacks targeting a particular ideas, making new friends search. The feature allows threat of cyber attacks – an group. Conversely, government and keeping up to date with users to search Facebook using attack that could delete personal and law enforcement agencies trending news. queries phrased in simple wealth, disrupt economies, English. When a query is could use the graph search to destroy critical infrastructure Cyber criminals have added executed, the results from the assist with crime and terrorism or affect military capability. social media to their arsenal, search can reveal personal investigations by designing Cyber weapons – mostly subsequently targeting innocent information of friends as well as specialised queries to locate malicious software launched users with a wide variety of strangers. criminals.

89 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 Maritime research: BLUE

90 THE BIG BLUE

AN INTRODUCTION TO Defending our seas

With over 95% of South of natural resources (minerals, Once anticipated or detected, respond, deploy counter Africa’s trade reliant on sea- energy and marine life) a surface combat capability measures, launch operations borne trade, the freedom requiring protection against is required to prevent, deter to effectively deal with threats of the seas, the right of irresponsible harvesting and and counter conflict as and sustain the combat. The innocent passage and the poaching. well as surface and sub- commander needs a situational protection of the trade routes surface threats. Typically, this picture that is transferred A considerable rise in piracy for merchant shipping have capability is vested in Frigate- between different command along Africa’s coastline, made the maritime domain a type vehicles and vessels. centres and deployed forces. has caused concern for the fundamental matter of national However, the challenge is This includes compatible peace, security and stability security. that perpetrators use both data links and associated of the continent and is seen conventional threats (missiles, equipment that are able to South Africa has one of the as a direct threat against guns, torpedoes, mines, etc.) transfer the situational picture longest coastlines in Africa the international sea-lines as well as asymmetric threats, to other users in real time. At stretching for about 3 924 of communication from the not only at sea, but also in the present, the CSIR houses an km at the high water line, Americas and Europe to the littorals and the confines of active interoperability centre with an exclusive economic Middle East and Asia. anchorages and harbours. on behalf of the South African zone exceeding 1.5 million National Defence Force, km2 of which the areas The South African Defence Detection technologies include which is continuously further around Marion and Prince Force has the responsibility to radar for long and close-in developed as command and Edward Islands comprise ensure the security of South detection from both ships and 2 control needs evolve. 474 400 km . This implies Africa, its people, sovereignty, ashore. Oftentimes the targets that South Africa is obligated territory and national interests. are mainly small contacts, Even where technology to control and enforce state This means having the ability such as fishing boats used by solutions exist, time is the authority over 4 340 000 to anticipate, deter, prevent, abalone poachers. In addition, enemy and obsolescence km2 of maritime territory. In intervene and stabilise electro optics and infrared and reliability become this, it also requires strong any potential threatening sensors provide the means problematic. Research into inter-related linkages with occurrences. Within our joint to detect and also classify upgrading technology to neighbouring land-locked maritime defence capability and evaluate the hostility of a newer generations, enhanced countries – especially in the involving surface, sub-surface threat. sustainment and support Southern African Development and air dimensions, a major to smart acquisition are Community (SADC) – also component of responsibility Underwater, sonar dependent on maritime trade rests with the navy. technologies provide a some means of addressing for economic prosperity. means of detection. The this. Increasingly, ersatz This requires a superior level electronic warfare domain tools are playing a role in South Africa’s dependence of technological sophistication has gone to sea as vessel preparing for real threats: on maritime transport is a and being equipped to be acoustics, communications simulation and modelling are factor of its being an island responsive, effective and and electromagnetic signals affordable means of testing economy: The bulk of the have the robustness to sustain fall prey to interception and scenarios – for doctrine country’s gross domestic a powerful marine security analysis. development, training product is generated through capability. For immediate urgent and enhancing standard trade which is conducted via action, and for the longer The question is not whether operating procedures, and are seaborne transport or merchant term, robust technologies are the required technologies exist developed at ever increasing shipping. For example, 75% critical – as is the means of and whether South Africa has levels of complexity. of oil importation – a critical providing an integrated maritime the capability to engineer economic resource – reaches domain awareness capability. A these into robust defence and The CSIR has been involved in South Africa from the Middle combination of static and mobile security systems. The critical maritime security since South East via the sea. Not only platforms and sensors, off-shore issue is the integration of Africa required capabilities to a trade route, our oceans and seaborne command and various detection systems, project maritime force, and also underpin an important control mechanisms need to form interoperability in the extreme this force remains critical to fishing industry and a wealth part of this. with the means to rapidly maintain.

91 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

BRAVO ZULU! AGILITY SUPPORTS SUPREMACY AT SEA

Piracy has been an intrinsic part of maritime activity and in the modern day is linked to hostage taking, and the trafficking of drugs, weapons and people.

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Following an escalation in seaborne piracy along the East African coastline, the Cape of Good Hope has become a preferred option for shipping companies. This offers a multitude of benefits to South Africa’s BRAVO ZULU! economy and its own import-based commodities and sectors. The challenge is to ensure the integrity of this maritime territory and assure shipping agents of the safety of the waters around the tip of Africa.

AGILITY SUPPORTS One component of counter fitted into an ISO container the ships’ boat bay on CSIR- African National Defence Force’s piracy operations is the speed footprint mounted and adapted developed cradle systems. mandated responsibilities within at which the navy can respond on the ship’s deck. The system the SADC and African Union SUPREMACY AT SEA to suspected or reported comprises a wave compensating The system was put to stringent security environments. sea trials along the Cape maritime crime. If the majority hydraulic davit system mounted Peninsula with various different The extended off-board patrol vessels in the fleet are on a load vector compensating boats from the Maritime capability further supports visit, frigates, options are limited. base. The base also houses the hydraulic drive system with its Reaction Squadron, South board, search and seizure Enter a simple electronic and manual controls; African Special Forces as well missions, interdiction, insertion solution… stored energy to move the boat as the South African Navy. and recovery over beaches, as between the stowage point and During trials it was successfully well as augmenting search and Davit systems are used as the water; as well as the logistic used in an actual counter-piracy rescue capabilities. cranes in the suspension or support equipment needed for operation, earning the project lowering of lifeboats. Turning the boat. The davit system can team a Bravo Zulu from the The hoisting systems have such a system into a platform accommodate boats of various commander – Navy-speak for a attracted international attention for rapid surface craft created hull shapes weighing up to five job well done. for licensing partnerships. It also a way to add faster force tons. The boats as well as crew creates business opportunities response than what frigates can be lowered and retrieved Apart from successfully for small and medium could manage. safely by the davit system with supporting integrated naval enterprises in engineering and the hosting ship underway. operations on the east coast of manufacturing to become part CSIR maritime engineers were Two of these davit systems are Africa, it also supports extended of the lucrative and fast growing quick to devise a mobile normally fitted to a ship, with naval operations up the west ship building sector in South system that could rapidly be another two boats housed in coast of Africa, fulfilling the South Africa.

With such technology as a building block to a highly mobile, integrated maritime capability, the South African Navy is in a stronger position to counter maritime threats, protect maritime assets, including natural resources, as well as the economic sea-lines of communication against multi-national crime syndicates and safeguarding the integrity of waters along the South African – and broader African – coasts.

93 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

ZAMA-ZAMAS OF THE SEAS: PASOP! A technology to monitor large-scale illegal fishing in South Africa’s exclusive economic zone

South Africa’s coastline and harsh sea, and for months on 1.5 million km2 area. To to be and whose transponders beyond is teeming with all end if necessary. When the date, South Africa relies on are off,” he explains. sorts of fish. And therein lies time is right; and they are sure catching these vessels in the “These are large vessels the problem. Our abundant they are not being watched, act. However, with the help that we are talking about, fish are an allure to ‘scaly’ they slink into our exclusive of technology from the CSIR, weighing over 300 tons. They chancers of the deep. economic zone. authorities can now anticipate with a high degree of certainty are all legally mandated to Illegal fishing vessels They plunder our fish by the where illegal vessels will have their transponders on,” he says. “But if they are in a lurk in the fringes of our tons, make off with the loot, be, and police those areas. and cash in on their nefarious holding pattern just outside exclusive economic zone. This is because the CSIR’s activities, always hiding in the technology is able to spot and our exclusive economic This is an area beyond our vastness of the deep blue. identify vessels bent on theft zone or moving through our coastline mandated to us by analysing their behaviour, marine protected areas, with They are the Zama-zamas of their transponders off, we for our fishing and marine says Dr Waldo Kleynhans, the seas. a research engineer. “We know these vessels are up to exploration activities. something,” he adds. The panopticon use satellite-based synthetic The perpetrators turn off their in space – we are aperture radars to monitor Chancers be warned transponders – a mandatory watching the deep ocean in order to tracking signal transmitted to detect and identify vessels that The CSIR has just completed receivers mounted on satellites Authorities cannot constantly exhibit suspicious behaviour,” a test case of the platform in or onshore base stations – to be on the look-out for these he states. “We are particularly Marion Island. “We observed hide their ignoble intentions. poachers. It is near impossible looking for vessels that are Marion Island over a period They lie in wait in the cold to constantly police a where they are not supposed six weeks. A satellite would

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take images of the area, twice a tool that warns authorities about Contributing to is a component of the Phakisa week,” says Kleynhans. “Image vessels moving through our Operation Phakisa Oceans Economy Programme data were then fused with exclusive economic zone and and SeaFAR is one of the automatic information system marine protected waters. We “We are able to monitor prioritised decision-support tools data from transponders. We can also detect bilge dumps,” the vast areas that form for OCIMS. used our bespoke algorithms for he adds. Vessels sometimes the exclusive economic detection and estimation,” he dump their pollution or bilge in “We are exploring the export zone in this manner,” adds. “Through this exercise, our exclusive economic zone as potential of the SeaFAR system. we managed to detect ten it is cheaper than pumping it out says Lee Annamalai, We already have an interest suspicious vessels within our at their port of origin. the competence area from several African coastal exclusive economic zone.” nations who are also combating manager where SeaFAR “Our aim is to show that illegal fishing in their exclusive The CSIR is already in talks suspicious vessels follow a is being developed. “If economic zones.” with the South African Navy; pattern and can be found they sail into our territory the South African Maritime in specific areas within the Safety Authority; the Department again, we will be on to exclusive economic zone at of Agriculture, Forestry and them,” he states. Fisheries; as well as the specific times because they are Department of Environmental following the fish. With better Annamalai is also the contract Affairs to report the results of data, authorities can police manager for the development of the Marion Island test and to those areas and put plans in the Department of Environmental further demonstrate the platform’s place to curb the illegal fishing Affairs Oceans and Coasts effectiveness. “Our platform, of our marine resources,” says Information Management dubbed SeaFAR, is an alerting Kleynhans. System (OCIMS). The system

95 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 NO PLACE TO HIDE The SeaFAR system is able to detect vessels without Automatic Identification Systems – a genuine leap for South African maritime domain awareness monitoring. When used together with the CSIR-equipped wave glider, it will quickly become a significant cause for concern for those who exploit South African waters.

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South Africa’s exclusive economic this is hampered by excessive using algorithms that detect vessels able to positively identify zone extends beyond 1.5 million costs, manpower demands, and exhibiting suspicious behaviour to a dark target at a fraction km2. Over a third of that is the limited time-space presence. locate ‘dark targets’ on the ocean. of the cost, while providing remote waters around Prince These dark targets are typically Edward Island in the Southern A possible solution in the form of vessels without the lawfully valuable ecosystem a wave glider – an autonomous Ocean – a distinctly valuable required Automatic Identification information at the same marine vehicle carrying sensors stretch of ocean, rich in natural Systems (AIS). With increased – is currently under investigation time. resources. As a fishing mecca, poaching, smuggling and human by maritime domain awareness this area needs to be effectively trafficking infecting South Africa, The ecological data alone specialists at the CSIR. managed to prevent overfishing the need to identify dark targets offer insight into governance, and subsequent severe economic Equipped with suitable sensors, quickly and accurately is critical. ecosystem management, and and ecological consequences, it addresses key shortcomings of When a dark target is detected, climate change challenges at a such as the extinction of fish other technologies. A fleet of these a vessel from the Department of fraction of the cost of conventional species. marine robots can gather maritime Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries methods. domain awareness, as well as or the South African Navy is To safeguard an oceanic area of The CSIR’s wave gliders will be climatic data on a level that is tasked to intersect – a costly this size, the custodians require able to detect, identify and relay unprecedented. response to what can easily be domain awareness, a proper a legitimate fishing boat with a positional information of shipping understanding of the area’s SeaFAR, another maritime faulty transponder. activities to other CSIR-developed climate, ecosystem and weather awareness platform, is a platforms for shared awareness, conditions, as well as the ability CSIR-developed satellite-based A wave glider fitted with such as SeaFAR and Cmore. to manage the much sought-after surveillance system that makes Information gained will offer acoustic and optical sensors resources. Traditionally, this has use of synthetic aperture radar, decision support in command been done via satellite coverage optical satellites and satellite could offer an alternative and control in the maritime and ship-based monitoring, but automatic identification systems solution as it would be environment.

97 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

Radar technology for the detection & tracking of small boats at sea

These measurements enabled make the data accessible via an the CSIR to develop a number of online database at www.csir. validated mathematical models co.za/small_boat_detection. of the amplitude, temporal and This provides researchers spatial statistics of the radar from all over the world with reflectivity of small boats as much needed data to validate well as of sea clutter under their models and algorithms, conditions relevant to those and creates opportunities for that can be expected in some collaborative research. of the application domains of the AwareNet system in The CSIR completed its first southern Africa. The datasets MATLAB-based technology also enable the development demonstrator capable of the real- Radar is one of the only expected range of environment and evaluation of detection and time detection and tracking of technologies capable of conditions, geometries, radar tracking algorithms on recorded multiple radar targets in 2012. providing wide area surveillance system parameters as well as data of a relevant environment. During the first phase of the The detection algorithms were over ranges in excess of target manoeuvres and radar development of this technology designed specifically to discern 100 km, day and night and in cross section characteristics. It is demonstrator, the focus was on between the return from sea poor visibility. Detection and important that the modelling and developing the framework and clutter and the return from other tracking of maritime surface simulation results be verified through algorithms required to detect and objects. These objects include vessels has been an important real-world measurements, at least at track maritime surface vessels a number of critical samples in the targets of interest such as small research topic at the CSIR for the only. The final objective is to be boats, as well as objects not of past number of years. This is a multi-dimensional parameter space. interest such as birds. Detections able to detect and track surface- demanding problem as the radar Once results have been verified, that are deemed to be of interest based (land and sea) as well as returns from small boats are often trade-offs between various radar (based on position, radial speed airborne targets. comparable to radar returns from system design parameters, such as the radar operating frequency, or amplitude, for example) may the sea surface itself. The future will see dwell time and revisit time can be be extracted from the output of the detection algorithm whereby additional measurement In addition, the performed. spurious and interfering signals are campaigns and the characteristics of the To verify a number of such discarded. Tracks are then formed continued exploitation environment in which the models available from the on the detections of interest. This literature, and to evaluate the surveillance radar must tracking involves the association of of the recorded datasets performance of some proposed detections with existing tracks or operate are continually to improve on existing detection and tracking algorithms creating new tracks with detections models and algorithms. changing, and the radar under realistic conditions, the that cannot be associated with any CSIR conducted a number is required to adapt to this existing track, smoothing/filtering The research focus will also include of measurement campaigns changing environment to of all the tracks, estimating the topics such as the simultaneous at various locations in South speed and heading of the targets, detection, tracking and classifying maximise its detection and Africa. Three large campaigns predicting their future positions and of targets, the feedback of tracking tracking performance. specifically aimed at recording calculating estimates of the errors and classification information comprehensive datasets of the in these estimates and predictions. During the development and radar reflectivity from the sea to detection algorithms and the evaluation of an effective radar surface and small maritime Following the suggestion of enhancement of tracking algorithms target detector, signal models are vessels were held in 2006, radar specialists in the United when target classification required for both the small maritime 2007 and 2010 at Overberg, Kingdom who considered the information is also measured by the vessels and the environment in near Arniston, on Signal Hill recorded datasets to be some radar. The results of this research which these vessels operate. in Cape Town and in Simon’s of the best of their kind in the will be incorporated in future These models should span the Town, respectively. world, the CSIR decided to technology demonstrators.

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The CSIR’s optronic research R&D team is located at the CSIR’s main campus in Pretoria, which makes actual testing at sea a challenge. All optronic sensors would be subject to the movement of the motion (which can sometimes be severe), and like the atmospheric factors, this motion must be catered for. To deal with this challenge, the optronics team devised a motion simulator that emulates the ship’s movement at sea based on pneumatics and custom mechanical design. This means that continued development of these systems could be done on land, and not even near the ocean, as well as giving the assurance that the eventual system will deliver effective visual outputs, despite the rise and fall of the ship it is used on. OPTRONIC SENSOR SYSTEMS in maritime domain awareness “Situational awareness is the ability to identify, process, and comprehend the critical elements of information about what is happening … with regards to the mission. More simply, [it is] knowing what is going on around you.” - The United States Coast Guard

Not knowing what is going with the expertise required to background of waves and image de-warping, image on around you in the maritime integrate these technologies white caps. The CSIR’s camera- stabilisation, motion de-blur domain is akin to being blind, present within the CSIR. It is based surveillance system and super resolution. The and in the military world this obvious that such systems need consists of five high-resolution real-time implementation is could mean the difference to be rugged, incorporate cameras (4000 x 1000 pixels achieved using multiple central between life and death, winning power and communications at 20 frames per second), processing units or graphics the battle or suffering defeat. considerations and involve each capturing a section of processing units. This capability multiple elements of the surrounds instantaneously. is particularly useful when To provide an effective opto-mechatronics design. Footage is then ‘stitched looking at real-time video during situational awareness capability together’ to create a real-time, surveillance missions. for the South African National Real-time, 360-degree 360-degree video-based view Defence Force, as well as for of the entire area surrounding In the maritime domain, being surveillance is the ‘golden any other stakeholder operating a vessel. Calibration of these able to see an object at a in the maritime domain, the chalice’ in security; cameras is carried out using distance and to then ensure CSIR undertakes R&D activities having that ‘all seeing the CSIR’s patented Automatic that the atmospheric effects are using radar systems, sensor eye’ to detect clearly Photogrammetric Camera mitigated, are the initial steps in technology and rapid response Calibration System. ensuring situational awareness mechanisms to monitor or what is happening in is achieved. This capability is defend any oceanic terrain. Atmospheric factors play a the full spectrum of your taken further by being able to role in affecting the quality surrounds in order to One specific area of interest of the image that the sensor detect a particular target of is the use of optronics for respond rapidly and ‘sees’. These factors include interest, track that target, as well improved surveillance at sea. appropriately. atmospheric turbulence, mist as identify and classify it. For This technology can act in a or rain, and platform motion, example, the commander of a stand-alone capacity, or as Optronic sensors offer an for example when an optronic maritime surveillance campaign part of a system of sensors that important complementary choice system is mounted on a would be able to positively could include radar systems. The of surveillance to the generally ship in stormy weather. To identity a vessel as a pirate stand-alone capacity can, in used radar systems on ships. It is this end, several algorithms vessel and would then be able turn, be composed of a variety better able to detect even small have been developed by to track the movement of this of different sensor types (visual objects, such as smaller wooden the CSIR’s optronic experts threat. This can be carried out cameras, infrared cameras, boats often used by poachers, for tone mapping, low in real time, ensuring quick and night and/or day cameras) against the highly cluttered light image enhancement, sound decision-making.

99 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016 A SIMULATOR FOR SAFER LANDINGS ON VESSELS

The CSIR and Cybicom Atlas Defence have jointly developed a prototype helicopter simulator primarily to help the South African Navy with helicopter flight deck training.

A helicopter flight deck trainer – the team operated new manufacturer of locally The distributed simulation was designed to provide as a single entity with a developed simulator products. training for flight deck controllers We have also succeeded environment integrates three common purpose. Each and marine helicopter pilots. It in replacing an imported man-in-the-loop simulator provides a safe, cost-effective role-player brought its component through the local stations: solution to train personnel manufacture of the display own expertise to the – A helicopter flight in a realistic and controlled cladding and mounting,” he project and the team was simulator with a pilot environment. The flight deck says. interface that models the trainer is a flexible, modular able to ensure seamless helicopter, the airflow system that can be supplied in integration between Cybicom Atlas Defence and the over the deck and the various levels, from a simple, CSIR are also working towards hardware and software ship interaction dynamics portable, desktop trainer, to a industrialising the training as well as between image complete with an image- multichannel, high-performance system. generation, control generation system that tracking system that can displays the external accommodate multiple trainees software and highly The product envisaged will be suitable for small-scale world view to the pilot. and provide a 360-degree, realistic flight dynamics,” high-fidelity simulation with full- production and will cater – A ship bridge simulator says Dave Viljoen, environment simulation. to both the commercial and that includes sea-state, Managing Director of defence markets. This is being rain and cloud-cover “The success of this Cybicom Atlas Defence. undertaken with the support of models with a bridge project illustrates the the Aerospace Industry Support interface for the captain. “The South African aerospace Initiative (AISI). The AISI is an advantages of the industry can only benefit initiative of the Department of – A deck landing officer collaboration between from the introduction of Trade and Industry hosted and station. industry and the CSIR Cybicom Atlas Defence as a managed within the CSIR.

100 THE BIG BLUE

AUGMENTED REALITY not just for catching Pikachu The recent Pokemon Go craze distracting the general geek population, brings to mind the defence applications of augmented reality.

Article contributed by Natalie Ausmeier, CSIR Image Processing Researcher.

Augmented reality allows developers (or commanders, in due time) to send sensory Augmented reality for Augmented reality out in information, such as a video feed, to situational awareness the field, or not someone’s viewer. This allows soldiers to see in the dark, around corners or through fog. Augmented reality allows developers Augmented reality applications are (or commanders, in due time) to nearly limitless. By combining image The CSIR’s augmented reality send sensory information, such as recognition and augmented reality, experts or developers can assist researchers are investigating further a video feed, to someone’s viewer. technicians with dismantling and training applications in a military, This allows soldiers to see in the repairing complicated equipment in dark, around corners or through specifically naval, environment. the field from anywhere in the world. Research is currently focused on fog. Points of interest, waypoints or The developer will be able to see the readings from wearables, such has developing platforms that will allow technician’s view in real time, give heart monitors, can be overlaid on a verbal instructions, as well as draw trainees to test their manoeuvring semi-transparent display, allowing full and annotate directly into their view skills using a real water-borne awareness of the current surroundings while wearing an augmented reality vessel against virtual vessels. Using – an enhanced reality. headset. augmented reality in this way creates a safe training environment that is as close to the real thing as possible.

Training simulators using mixed reality

The world has seen significant developments in virtual reality technologies. The Oculus Rift and HTC Vive, once magical technologies found only on the silver screen, is suddenly on your son’s Christmas wish-list. Developers have taken virtual reality even further by combining virtual worlds with the real world, creating a mixed reality, or an augmented reality. A world where real and virtual objects co-exist. Users are able to interact with virtual objects in real time. Imagine sitting in a virtual cockpit controlling an aircraft with real controls or driving a virtual car with a real steering wheel.

101 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

SONAR UNDERWATER MONITORING AND SURVEILLANCE

A recent development at the CSIR has This brings a new dimension to object been the work on an underwater, 3D recognition and image perception. imaging technology demonstrator. The current 3D array development The system, currently at technology includes extensive research into readiness level six, is undergoing trials in dams and harbours. It is processing to enable a reduction of set to be exploited in numerous the array transducers and improved scenarios including national port and clarity of the image. Increased coastal security, detecting threats computing availability has now and navigational dangers, as well reduced the execution time to a as sub-sea profiling from ships and few seconds of processing to allow Autonomous Underwater Vehicle faster image composition. The layout Systems. and wide bandwidth of transducers enable a virtual array of thousands The research and development is at of transducers to be created from just the cutting edge of developments in a small 32 x 64 array. Optimised sonar imaging and the innovations are electronics and processing platforms attracting interest from the international have also reduced the costs without maritime environment. losing functionality or resolution. Ultrasonic sensor Instead of single-frequency ‘pings’, the manufacturing broadband transducers use ‘chirps’, swept across a wide frequency band. The South African naval acquisition The advanced processing enables the programme has used foreign-sourced building of 3D pictures over a range sonar technologies for its frigates and submarines. Collaboration with in excess of 500 m. Sonar images international partners in the field cannot be accurately termed ‘real- of wet-end sonar transducers has time’ due to the time of flight delay facilitated local manufacture of these of the acoustic signal, as determined transducers, lowering the production by the speed of sound. However, the and maintenance costs. received signals are processed and displayed within seconds, still creating The specialised sonar transducer the ‘realist’ time acoustic picture of the manufacturing and test facility has sub-surface scene. The imaging is not been accredited by European sonar restricted to only static features but the institutions. This facility is capable of potential exists for moving targets to supporting the South African naval be resolved with speed and heading. sonar systems as well as foreign Another advantage of the multi- navies with their maintenance and frequency array is the image clarity testing requirements. An additional whereby millimeter level resolution capability of this facility is the ability has been obtained compared to the to modify or redevelop legacy sonar more conventional tens of centimetres. transducers for clients.

102 THE BIG BLUE

Numerical models contribute to safer fishing in False Bay

By leveraging existing environmental The CSIR has created a and oceanographic numerical mathematical, numerical model that models and data, oceanographers uses satellite and model data from have created an early-warning the United States’ National Center SMS system to provide three-hourly for Environmental Prediction as forecasts aimed at preventing boundary conditions. It incorporates drowning along the Western Cape CSIR spatial varying wind forecasts coast. and existing CSIR oceanographic models to create an accurate, “We no longer have to go to sea, holistic spatial wave and flow over long distances and then decide climate model for the entire False that we will not fish due to the strong Bay area. currents,” says Charmaine Daniels who has been fishing for line and The model takes most abiotic cray fish for the past 19 years. environmental, weather and oceanographic data into account, is The SMS Coastal Early therefore quite comprehensive, and Warning System combines has so far proven to be reasonably climate, weather and ocean reliable. New information on wave, current and wave data sets current and wind measurements are received every three hours. to create detailed nine- Therefore, every three hours the hour, short-term forecasts model can provide a new nine- of use to fishermen on small hour forecast for ocean and wind fishing vessels. Information conditions in False Bay. includes current strength Easy to use and direction; wave height, The SMS format was chosen direction and frequency; because it creates a simple, as well as wind speed and affordable and quick communication direction. system – and because fishermen do not typially take smartphones or The National Sea Rescue Institute tablets out on the ocean. advised CSIR researchers of the many drowning incidents involving The fishermen simply send an SMS swimmers and rock fishermen, code to a specific number and who often knowingly take big risks within seconds they receive an SMS when fishing on exposed rocky reply with the latest nine-hour forecast areas. The tool is designed for those for False Bay’s current strength individuals and small commercial and direction, wave heights and fishing vessels that are particularly direction, and wind conditions. vulnerable to sudden worsening sea conditions. False Bay was The CSIR met with members of the chosen as a pilot site for the system Department of Agriculture, Forestry because it has a thriving commercial and Fisheries and local fishermen fishing community. “We use the from False Bay, where fishermen SMS information often, it is useful were briefed and trained on how especially in our area where the to use the system. CSIR researchers weather changes very fast,” says also used this opportunity to gain Daniels. insight from the fishermen.

103 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

Physical modelling for coastal engineering

104 THE BIG BLUE

An exposed coastline, frequent infrastructure assessments, input winds. These threats to harbour technologies that are on par violent storm surges, coastal on rehabilitation and future operations can be managed with, or even outperform other erosion and the volatility caused expansion plans. by adjusting the mooring laboratories in the world. At the by climate change factors, systems, and by installing early same time, the CSIR’s Coastal create constant waves of Numerical models are created warning systems which are Engineering & Port Infrastructure onslaught on the marine life and of port or coastal infrastructure based on real-time, stand-alone research group actively maritime structures along the and then used to create measurements of environmental participates in international and South African coast. accurate physical scale models parameters. local working groups (the World that are tested in the hydraulics Association for Waterborne The CSIR hydraulics model facility. Subsequent The CSIR has numerical models Transport Infrastructure, the laboratory is the only one experiments and induced wave for different mooring scenarios – South African Institution of Civil testing generate accurate wave forces and hydrodynamics of its size and capability Engineering and the Engineering datasets which provide an impacting on a vessel or floating Council of SA), and supports in Africa and is used understanding of the dynamics structures, forces impacting on the University of Stellenbosch for hydraulic research of waves, coastal structures a moored ship caused by the to provide academic training and development on and ship motions. In this way, passing of another ship in a of Transnet coastal and port breakwaters, ports, it is possible to determine force channel, and the ship motions engineers, and cooperates with limitations and design life of and mooring line forces at a other world-class international and other maritime planned infrastructure. quay or jetty due to waves, engineering institutions (e.g. in engineering domains current and wind. the Netherlands and Denmark). such as vessel motion and Numerical modelling The eight commercial harbours Human capital on South Africa’s 2 798 km mooring forces. Long waves represent one of development coastline – Richards Bay, the two major threats to moored The laboratory has attained Durban, East London, Ngqura, ships. Visible only as surges of The engineers and technologists, an international reputation and Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay, up to 35 cm on a harbour wall, backed by programmers, has worked on contracts as far Cape Town and Saldanha – are long waves build up at sea and technicians and applied afield as Australia and the Gulf. managed by Transnet National have a peak period of between mathematicians, are exposed to Ports Authority, with expert 100 and 200 seconds. This international scrutiny in terms of Locally, investigations are support as and when needed done on national commercial frequency resonates with a service provision, work quality from the CSIR’s research group ports for clients such as moored carrier and can result in and overall innovative design on coastal engineering and port Transnet Capital Projects disruption of harbour operations and execution. This requires that infrastructure. and Transnet National and even broken mooring lines, the best international standards Ports Authority, to provide especially if combined with high are applied while creating novel

105 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

Industrialisation: GROWING

Ready for take-off:

TECHNOLOGY-BASED ENTERPRISES GROWN AT THE CSIR

The CSIR and the Department programme is funded by the of Trade and Industry (the administrative support the of Defence (DoD) launched a DoD and implemented by the dti) Black Industrialist Policy companies would require. An commercialisation programme CSIR. The primary goal of 2015. additional two SMMEs will be to support black industrialists the programme is to create added to the programme. and entrepreneurs in the and support sustainable and The first three small businesses defence sector with technology competitive black-owned were identified through a The defence sector – as many development, enterprise small medium and micro process. Inclusion of their others – faces the challenge of development and technical enterprises (SMMEs) in line technical teams in project enlisting scarce skills in high- human capital development. with objectives of the Defence activities have already technology domains as well as Review of 2015, the National commenced and the process to transform its landscape to The Defence Transformative Development Plan - Vision is underway to supply the represent a fully inclusive, active Enterprise Development 2030, and the Department necessary business and South African economy. At a

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higher level, the sector aims to industrial development. “This to our defence industry programme into fields such contribute to positive economic is a focused and directed transformation and growth as optronics, aeronautics, growth and addresses national programme for effective and enhancing the technical landwards, maritime, cyber, challenges of unemployment, technology commercialisation skills base to foster industry secure communication, and that will support black business poverty and inequality. competitiveness. In this case, it is modelling and simulation. The development – and support an injection into the field of radar intention is also to grow the According to Bernad its sustainment,” he says. “This and electronic warfare which is programme involvement with Mangwane, programme leader is one of the CSIR’s key focus a critical and undersubscribed other national departments such at the CSIR, the programme areas, namely supporting field of engineering.” allows the science and industrial development.” He as Science and Technology, entrepreneurship system to adds, “The other is to make a The CSIR and DoD will be the dti, and Small Business contribute directly to techno- real and lasting contribution seeking means to expand the Development.

107 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

SMALL BUSINESS: OPPORTUNITY ON THE RADAR

What does it take to start and Affairs, for Reutech Pty Ltd as “Having been in the industry Collaborate run a small, medium and micro Executive Director and I was for so long it felt natural for my enterprise (SMME) in the defence CEO of Paramount South Africa partner and I to start Floida. Our Making contact with the right people and fostering strong industry? After 16 years of holding within the Paramount Group. main aim was to help grow the strategic partnerships is essential top positions for some of the scarce skills so needed in the “The defence space is unique in order to grow. You need to big hitters in the defence sector industry in South Africa, and to and having co-founded Floida because you often work for pair up with people who have put mechanisms in place to retain Engineering Services, Florence organisations that manufacture been around the block and who those skills,” she says. Musengi is more equipped than state-of-the-art technologies and know the industry and its players. equipment that help to keep most to tackle the question. “Beyond that, it’s always been the peace and keep people Focus on your strength my goal to own a technology “After a stint working for the safe. The sophistication of the development entity. I find it United Nations I got head-hunted technology makes one want to be You know what you do well and extremely fulfilling to design, into the defence industry. It was part of the solution to the global what you can bring to the table quite a culture shock at first, but defence challenge.” develop and commercialise a that others can’t, so focus on that the ever-evolving technologies that new product.” and just go for it. drive the industry make it unique, Floida Engineering Services is So what does it take to start and Wise up challenging and also exciting,” a 100% black female-owned company that primarily does run an SMME in the defence says Musengi, an MBA graduate The defence sector is an who is currently CEO of Floida research and technology industry? Musengi lists the extremely sophisticated industry. Engineering Services and owner development for the radar following valuable tips: Get to know the relevant of WAYAM Communications cross section (RSC) facility. The Find a niche products, research and future Consulting and WAYAM company receives funding from technologies for the market you Clothing, as well as a seasoned the Department of Defence If you want to start any successful are trying to enter into. You empowerment coach. as part of a collaboration business you need to find a have to apply a bit of a different programme with the CSIR. “I’ve worked for multinational gap where there is a need mindset and skillset than in most Saab South Africa as Vice Musengi decided to co-found Floida for a product or service. The other industries, simply because of President and Head of Engineering Services as a natural same applies to the defence the technical advances involved, Communications and Public extension of her career in defence. environment. but it’s all doable.

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LOCALLY MADE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARDS ENTER NEW SPACE

A localisation project initiated by reliability electronic products. work requests from the SKA, it processes to ensure that any the Aerospace Industry Support has also received work from the future requirements of the SKA Initiative (AISI) and supported by Meeting Class 3 standards European organisation for nuclear can be catered for. Component the CSIR’s Technology Localisation will also require development research, CERN, and locally manufacturers are a big driving Implementation unit is set to of new ISO documentation, from the Gauteng Department of force in this technological evolution benefit the Square Kilometre quality assurance reports and Education. as they create smaller and more Array (SKA) and the broader traceability reports. Apart from complex components, requiring aerospace industry by increasing training of laboratory personnel, Once the project is completed, more intricate interconnects and local capability to develop high- specialised training of computer- TraX will not only meet Class 3 complicated stack ups within the end electronics and mechanical aided manufacturing engineers acceptance requirements and PCB design. In particular, TraX systems, accelerating product is necessary. Training will be provide the necessary first article required key process improvements development and time to market. provided by two engineers from inspection reports, but it will also in resin-, copper-, and thermally At the same time, it will protect NCS in India as this expertise is be able to deliver a number conductive paste-filled vias (vertical South African intellectual property. not yet available in South Africa. of services to the SKA and the interconnect access), in pad via, broader aerospace and defence and mechanically drilled micro Among others, this project With regards to technology sectors, including manufacturing vias. concerns upgrading and upgrades, TraX was assisted to all of the SKA’s PCBs as well as enhancing the capabilities of acquire a new direct imaging multilayer PCBs with varying, Marié Botha, AISI Project printed circuit board (PCB) machine, probe testers as well as complex specifications. Manager, explains, “Part of our manufacturer, TraX Interconnect. reverse pulse plating technology. goal is to increase impact by The company will be positioned This strategic upgrade of its plant This investment will position TraX supporting and implementing as a supplier of Class 3 PCBs enabled TraX to meet the ever to tender for other PCBs making supplier development enablers, to the aerospace and defence increasing technology demands of up the sub-systems of the MeerKat transferring technologies to industries in South Africa. its customers telescope. improve SMME capabilities, Although not a stranger to In the longer term, higher TraX has already processed more and ensuring the appropriate institutions in these industries, education institutions will benefit than 600 PCB designs and skills and knowledge have been TraX realised that to be able from the training, process and improved its quotation turnaround transferred to sustain SMME to manufacture the many PCBs software improvements as part of time as well as quotation economic participation. TraX currently made offshore, it had TraX’s ongoing partnership with accuracy. A number of other Interconnect was an ideal SMME to upscale its manufacturing these institutions. software upgrades were also for this purpose. The project will capability to meet Class 3/A completed. prepare local industry to offer performance requirements – While the project is not yet more significant contributions to the the industry standard with the completed, TraX has started to Special attention was given international SKA project once it toughest requirements for high- reap the benefits. Apart from to continuous improvement of starts construction in 2018.”

109 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016 PHOTONICS PROTOTYPING FACILITY

SHEDDING LIGHT ON TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

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Photonics is the science of address societal challenges competitiveness of the South The photonics prototyping light, describing a research such as energy generation, African photonics industry. The facility offers a world-class field that aims to generate, facility is established within the facility that houses Class 1 000 healthcare and security, manipulate and detect particles CSIR’s National Laser Centre, an clean rooms and technical and of light called photons. It is it is a driving force in innovative research environment optical equipment ranging from an essential component of accelerating economic in close proximity to several electronic, mechanical and everyday technologies including growth to which South universities that serves as a nexus diagnostic equipment for a variety medical instruments, lighting Africa has a minuscule for industrialisation. of wavelengths. The facility will sources, such as lasers or LEDs, also house scarce skills such as market share of less than As the name suggests, the and telecommunications and knowledge and experience in principal function of the photonics information processing. 0.3%. optics and photonics and offer prototyping facility is to facilitate assistance with photonics-related Just as the invention of the One of the major contributing the development of prototypes, factors to this lack of impact is prototype design and testing. transistor and integrated circuits which results in products that the fact that photonics-based revolutionised the 20th century satisfy a market need associated There are six key economic technologies developed in with electronics, so the invention with photonics-based technologies sectors that have been identified South Africa are typically of the laser and optical fibres is at and devices. It aims to address within photonics in South Africa never commercialised or the centre of the next technology the current ‘innovation chasm’ that would benefit from prototype prototyped. This is caused by a revolution. The 21st century is experienced in the South African development. These include lack of scientific and business photonics industry by providing defence, security and sensors; becoming the era of photonics. expertise needed to industrialise the necessary skills and facilities technologies, as well as a lack industrial manufacturing; energy; to support the industrialisation and The global photonics of funding needed to develop lighting and displays; information commercialisation of photonics- market is currently worth the necessary infrastructure and and communications; and life based technologies. This will help facilities. sciences. 300 billion euros, with a develop South Africa’s expertise projected market value To address these challenges, a in photonics product development The photonics prototyping facility of over 600 billion euros photonics prototyping facility, and prototyping, stimulating the welcomes industry, entrepreneurs growth of the country’s photonics and public research institutions in 2020. Apart from funded by the Department of Science and Technology and industry by forming small, medium to participate in innovative implementing photonics- the CSIR, has been developed and micro-sized enterprises and prototype development projects of based technologies to to stimulate the growth and creating sustainable jobs. photonics-based technologies.

The facility: • Premier facilities: Three Class 1 000 clean rooms. • Access to skilled resources: Optical engineers, industrial engineers and photonic scientists. • Characterisation equipment: Diagnostic equipment, optical components and laser sources. • Technical support: Mechanical, electronic and industrial design.

111 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016 Robotics for rails, crops and mining In an ever changing and evolving world, scientists are paying closer attention to automation solutions. Automated and robotic systems are ideal for situations where safety and endurance are key considerations. The CSIR has undertaken research and development on automation solutions to improve the competitiveness of various industries in South Africa and has developed a number of cost-effective platforms for various sectors.

Autonomous solutions for farming nature from being put to work. The researchers developed the platform to be Dassie is a CSIR-developed robotic system both capable and durable by ensuring that can inspect and monitor horticultural that it had more than the required weight crops on local farms. The automated, carrying capacity and energy to drive intelligent robotic system has the potential the machinery. Computer-aided design to improve the monitoring, production, allowed for the simulation of performance harvesting and processing of produce. before construction and deployment of the platform. Following the successful development of a prototype that was tested in laboratory Robotic in the mines to ensure conditions, field trials of this precision- safe environment farming tool were undertaken to monitor vineyards in collaboration with the Another robotic solution contributed by the Department of Viticulture and Oenology CSIR is the Mine Safety Platform, which and the Institute for Wine Biotechnology at uses a novel thermal imagery system to Stellenbosch University. help prevent uncontrolled rock fall. The mine safety platform makes use of infrared One of the key considerations in technology to create images of the heat developing the technology was durability, of the hanging wall, thereby highlighting as the harsh South African climate and possible points of loose hanging rock. The landscape have in the past prevented platform can be used to reduce fatalities in advanced robotic technologies of this South African mines.

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Autonomous railway inspectors

SID (Survey and Inspection Device), was developed by the CSIR and is tasked with inspecting railways. A set of predetermined parameters allows SID to identify points of interest on rails and surrounding infrastructure that could pose threats to passing trains. The autonomous vehicle is capable of travelling vast distances on very little fuel between depots and sidings.

SID sends the information it gathers via a mixed set of wireless communications as they become available along the route. It captures a real-time view of the environment using on-board cameras. SID can be used for inspection missions in areas where platforms that run on wheels operate.

The vehicle can also operate as an early warning system when it travels ahead of trains, sending back alerts on track obstacles and level crossings.

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Supporting SMMEs in the biomanufacturing sector

Science and technology has a key role to play in developing industries that support economic growth and address unemployment, inequality and poverty.

The development of a South which 16 are owned by black of an environmentally friendly preserving the sustainability of African biomanufacturing sector entrepreneurs, including 10 black deployment solution. natural environments,” says Lalloo. is contained in several national women-owned enterprises. To date, Core components of the technology strategies. In 2013, Cabinet 42 products with applications in It was found that eco-friendly include biological screening and adopted the National Bioeconomy the cosmetics, nutrition, water and products and practises were one of selection, applications testing, the requirements needed to assist Strategy tabled by the Department sanitation, and biotechnology high-density bacterial fermentation, the SANDF in remote operations. of Science and Technology. industries have been developed downstream processing and Examples include biological and transferred to enterprises. formulation, which yield highly cleaning products, biodegradable The vision for South Africa’s engineered products through One of the SMMEs in the personal care products, water bioeconomy is to be a biotechnology. programme, OptimusBio’s chief treatment products, ablution, waste significant contributor to the technical officer, Dr Raj Lalloo, treatment and recycling solutions. The products feature microbial gross domestic product of points out that the BIDC’s market enzymes produced in a self- One such solution was found pull approach has enabled regulating system, coupled the South African economy in OptimusBio, a CSIR spin-out companies in the programme to to biodegradable surfactants by 2030 through the company that specialises in identify market opportunities. This, and mimic the look and feel creation and growth of novel in turn, has allowed the companies eco-friendly biological products and solutions. OptimusBio uses of conventional products. The industries that generate and to use the science and technology technology is an enabler to start the platforms of the BIDC to rapidly technology developed at the CSIR’s develop bio-based services, waste treatment process at source, develop product prototypes to offer BIDC for product manufacturing. thus reducing the burden on waste products and innovations, solutions to large industry partners. These next generation products use management, improving the well- with a corresponding the concept of biomimicry to put Supporting SANDF ‘nature’s machines (active bacteria) being of people and preserving the increase in new and existing deployments in to work’ in cleaning, water environment. companies that provide and environmentally sensitive treatment, sanitation, agriculture, Products are currently available utilise these solutions. areas aquaculture, environmental in Botswana and Namibia and bioremediation and solid waste there is ongoing impetus to share In 2013, the CSIR established A CSIR team recently visited South treatment. a Biomanufacturing Industry African National Defence Force these products with other countries Development Centre (BIDC) to (SANDF) deployments at the Kruger “Our propriety technology has in the African region. Because support small, medium and micro National Park as part of its ongoing been tested to liquefy and degrade of the BIDC support, OptimusBio enterprises (SMMEs) involved support to the SANDF. The aim of solid waste material, industrial is currently setting up its own in biomanufacturing. Since its the visit was to assess conditions and domestic effluents, reduce manufacturing facility and creating inception, the BIDC programme found in these remote deployments odour and reduce prevalence of jobs in a new biotechnology sector has supported 19 enterprises, of so as to propose the development disease-causing pathogens, while of the economy.

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AVOIDING RISKY BUSINESS The ‘how to’ of growing an engineering business with reduced risk

Business owners know that each other on a national and and knowledge to develop – The facility can be used by a main element for hedging international level. sophisticated products and South African companies against internal and external risk services. The PLM platform to design their products, With products becoming is by having the right systems for will also be made available and exchange ideas and ever more sophisticated and your enterprise. The benefits of as a cloud service, allowing product information with complicated, more specialised this become obvious when the industry participants to use the clients and partners. This producers are necessary. This business grows in a sustainable technology to develop and is a way to streamline the and consistent manner. results in large supply chains enhance their own products supply chain and make with many participants, often and make their engineering Substantial, even exponential, spanning the globe. Products that it easier for the various services globally available. growth can be achieved are designed and manufactured participants to deliver their This will significantly lower the in a low-risk environment if by many different organisations products and services. barrier for South African small, it is carefully planned and represent a huge integration medium and micro enterprises – As more organisations systematically executed; and problem, because the information to enter large modern supply use the PLM platform, one of the easiest ways to that describes the components are chains and expand their the CSIR will facilitate achieve this is by integrating typically inaccessible. distribution and market share. your product set into the product relationships between Additionally, gaining access to portfolio of a larger, national or The initiative will help South businesses, investors and the latest engineering software international manufacturer. The African businesses to participate government, contributing to and systems; with appropriate benefits are obvious – a larger in these supply chains, by supplier development and market for your solutions, a more providing the tools and assistance and training readily localisation programmes. certain and steady order book, techniques to deliver designs available, and a way to easily a smaller sales effort for larger and products with the right set of deliver their designs and product – Finally, the initiative will order volumes, etc. information, allowing products specifications to their national become the modern and solutions to be integrated and international customers. version of the components However, embarking on a and used by national and global catalogue. A procurer As a long-term initiative with programme of ‘running with manufacturing organisations. could use the system to the potential for huge impact the big dogs’ can be very find products, components The initiative also enables on your business and the South daunting for a small business. and services or at least Three steps can make a world industry participants to co-create African economy, the CSIR something similar to what of difference in growing your globally competitive products offers the following: is required. The contact small business: a desire to win; and services using a PLM – A PLM facility to serve information of the supplier a mindset that says, ‘I can do platform that streamlines the flow multiple goals. It showcases of those items or services this’, and leveraging national of multidisciplinary information the value of PLM, provides will be available, making it programmes created for giving about products, services and practice-based training, small businesses a boost. related processes throughout a that much easier to build a complete lifecycle, to ensure that tests technical capabilities supply chain. The Programme Lifecycle the right information is available and serves as a work The message is simple: Management (PLM) initiative, in the right context and at the space where CSIR experts scientifically based systems for is established to address right time. can help clients to solve this, and is a way to connect complicated problems with growth and development are participants of the engineering Through this platform, industry the latest engineering tools the best ways to ensure success and manufacturing industry with can leverage CSIR skills and techniques. and minimise the risk.

115 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

LENS shapes the future of local manufacturing of parts

Refurbishment of industrial avoid such scenarios. The creates three-dimensional is thus fabricated layer by components is particularly facility comprises an Otomec parts without the need for any layer to achieve the final built important in the South African LENS 850R metal additive specialised tooling. It offers part. context. South Africa’s manufacturing system. the designer new freedom to manufacturing industry relies on design geometries which are The CSIR has teamed up The laser-engineered net- imported equipment, and critical not possible to realise using with Eskom as an industry shaping (LENS) technology spares have to be kept in stock conventional manufacturing partner to further investige the focuses on blown-powder laser or be imported from overseas. techniques. The technology use of the LENS system as a metals deposition additive Where high-value parts are supports the concept of technology platform of choice manufacturing. involved, manufacturing time compression in product in its refurbishment processes. development, in that no hard R&D activities are focused on companies have to choose With LENS technology, between expensive spare part tooling is required, and that the refurbishment of high value companies can rebuild inventories or the possible loss product updates can be steam turbine blades. The first of production due to downtime their existing parts, and made by simply updating the success came in the form of while spare parts are being thus realise substantial computer-aided design models a process which enables the restoration of tenons on the imported. time and cost savings. used to define the component build. LENS also supports the tips of blades which had to be The CSIR, along with its This facility is unique in upgrading or refurbishment of removed from the rotor shaft. partners, the National Research the southern hemisphere, components. It feeds blown Previously, these blades had to Foundations (NRF) and the and is housed at the CSIR powder from a nozzle into be scrapped regardless of the Aerospace Industry Support National Laser Centre’s a laser-generated melt pool, condition of the blade, but by Initiative (AISI), has invested in laboratories. In addition which rapidly solidifies into rebuilding the tenons it is now a research and development to refurbishment of existing the designed computer-aided possible to reinstall the blade if facility to help companies parts, LENS technology also design model shape. The part needed.

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Unique technology platform, Aeroswift, set to revolutionise ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

Additive manufacturing is a manufacturing sector will be one This technology will allow the developed for targeted aerospace relatively new manufacturing of the primary industry sectors on production of large geometrically components, commencing during technology, and is generally which the consortium partners complex items, typically focusing Phase 3 of the programme. A considered as one of the key will focus. The system allows the on parts which are prohibitively commercialisation strategy for technologies to support the printing of components up to 2 m expensive or impossible to make the technology is also being production of complex, high value long, 600 mm in width, and using traditional methods. implemented. and low volume parts for industry. 600 mm in height. It will also utilise a hot and inert processing This development is at present Aeroswift will revolutionise The technology allows the environment, which will ensure being funded through a grant from processing of difficult-to-machine that the components produced the Department of Science and additive manufacturing, materials, and can produce Technology. The project is central comply with strict aerospace in that it will be able to parts with little material wastage. manufacturing standards. to South Africa’s national titanium Research and development beneficiation strategy, which produce components in work is continuing globally to Aeroswift is based on the aims to transform the country from a cost-effective way, with mature additive manufacturing processes of selective laser an exporter of raw materials to minimal waste. New design as an accepted manufacturing melting, in which an object is an exporter of semi-finished or technology. produced from powder which is finished goods, which can be approaches made possible arranged in layers and fused by sold at a premium compared with A consortium consisting of the by the design freedom a high-power laser. In general, the material in its raw state. CSIR National Laser Centre additive manufacturing lends itself that this technology offers, and Aerosud identified a to the development of unique The consortium has already combined with the fact that number of shortcomings with components from a range of achieved production speeds present commercially available material utilisation can be materials. greater than currently available metal additive manufacturing commercial selective laser melting optimised, has the potential technology. At present, processing Compared to conventional machines. Phase 1 of Project to dramatically cut aircraft speed is still relatively slow, and Aeroswift was to design and manufacturing technologies component production there are limitations on the size of construct the system. The system is which are often subtractive parts that can be produced. currently still in the commissioning costs. (i.e. materials are phase, which is running in parallel An innovative way to address with Phase 2, which focuses these limitations was demonstrated removed via a cutting on process development and by the consortium in 2009, which or milling processes), optimisation. During this phase, led to the establishment of the additive manufacturing the processing parameters will be Aeroswift programme in 2011 to relies on various energy optimised, all hardware systems develop the Aeroswift High Speed Large Area Laser-based Additive depositing technologies will be tested and improved, Manufacturing technology to fuse materials into and system reliability will be tested to ready the technology platform. three-dimensional for adoption as a standard This technology platform is unique functional near-net-shape manufacturing technology. It in the world. It will be the biggest parts. It accelerates the is important to ensure that the laser-based 3D printer of metal manufacturing cycle, reduces technology becomes mature and components for the manufacturing that there is confidence in the waste, minimises cost, industry. The technology is manufacturing technology before focused on titanium metal, and reduces energy use and can manufacturing procedures and the commercial aerospace reshape supply chains. part qualification processes are

117 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

LASER TECHNOLOGY for biometric and biomedical applications

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As part of a Department of is within the coherence length are preferable when imaging Science and Technology- of the light, then interference non-transparent tissue due funded project, the CSIR has will occur at the detector. to the better penetration developed a high-speed, This then generates an image depth. Ophthalmology is large-area optical coherence after processing the resultant performed at 800-850 nm tomography (OCT) system for interference signal. OCT due to the transparent nature measures the echo time delay fingerprint biometrics. of the eye in this band. High- and intensity of backscattered resolution applications require light. Unlike conventional The OCT system is shorter wavelengths. Longer microscopy, the depth and capable of acquiring wavelengths are considered for lateral resolution are separated. both external and The depth (axial) resolution samples with higher scattering internal fingerprints, thus is dependent on the spectral properties. bandwidth of the light source, enhancing fingerprint The type of OCT system the broader the bandwidth, the acquisition and providing employed can be a simple, lower the coherence length and fake detection. the higher the depth resolution. cost effective solution or a The lateral resolution depends complex, highly specific and Researchers have demonstrated on the optics used. fast system depending on the the ability to acquire live and application. The CSIR’s OCT latent (forensic) fingerprints There are different system is not limited to this one using the system. Light-based configurations of OCT but application. The system can techniques are popular in all are based on the same image a large surface area different spheres of diagnostic principle. These configurations (25 mm by 25 mm) to a depth and therapeutic applications are Time Domain OCT and of 11 mm (sample dependant). due to their non-invasive, non- Fourier Domain OCT. The Resultant 3D images (512 x contact properties. The OCT former involves scanning the 512 x 2048 pixels; XYZ) are technique was first reported reference mirror back and forth by Huang in 1991 and has to match different depths in the acquired in less than three since made significant strides sample to within the coherence seconds. The heart of the in different fields such as length of the light source. system is a 200 kHz swept dermatology, ophthalmology, Fourier Domain OCT uses laser source and two-axis polymer characterisation and a fixed reference mirror and galvanometer-based scanner. biometrics. Lasers permeate measures the spectral response Signal acquisition is made the world in a myriad of of the resultant interferogram. possible through a high-speed ways. Optical coherence The interferogram is encoded analogue-to-digital converter tomography (OCT) is a non- in optical frequency space and capable of speeds greater than invasive, non-contact imaging undergoes a Fourier transform 1GS/s. technique, capable of yielding to yield the reflectivity profile of both surface and sub-surface the sample. Fourier Domain can Due to the contactless nature morphology (in 2D and 3D). be further divided into Spectral of OCT, this technology can High-speed, high-precision Domain OCT and Swept acquire latent fingerprints OCT systems employ lasers as Source OCT. without destroying potential the optical source. In addition useful DNA material for to numerous applications in the Spectral Domain requires a biomedical imaging field, OCT broadband light source for forensics thus allowing can also be used for biometric illumination and separates the multiple uses for one piece of acquisition and be a useful spectral components with a evidence. The 3D capability tool in the safety and security spectrometer. Swept Source of OCT also means it can be industries as well. uses a light source which used to get both the internal probes the sample with different and external fingerprints The technique is considered the optical frequencies sequentially. of a person thus protecting optical analogue of ultrasound The power is then measured against fake fingerprints. It and works on the principle of with a single photo detector. also has the ability to detect low coherence interferometry. sweat glands and thus detect A broadband or tuneable The OCT systems operate light source is split between at different wavelengths liveness. These are important a sample and a reference (depending on the application) features that enhance biometric mirror (reference path). When either in the infrared (800-900 security features for high-end the difference between the nm) or in the near infrared applications such as military, distance travelled for the light, (NIR) band (1250–1350 national security points and sample and the reference path nm). The NIR wavelengths forensics.

119 DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016

About the AISI USING NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE FOR INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT

The South African In line with government key localisation and improved Interdepartmental government, through objectives and national technology offerings. participation and development imperatives, the collaboration forms a the Department of Trade goal of the AISI is to assist in Marié Botha, AISI manager, and Industry (the dti), is integrating the South African says, “South Africa has an crucial part of realising impressive history in the addressing the barriers aerospace and defence this vision.” aerospace industry. This industry into the global supply to industrialisation, and background, along with Key national policies that give chain. The AISI’s programmes its flexible and innovative impetus to the continuation upscaling and sustaining recognise that SMME engineering expertise, places of initiatives such as the AISI the aerospace and development and BBBEE/ the industry in an ideal position include the National Industrial transformation-focused projects defence industry by using to establish itself as a reliable, Policy Framework (NIPF). The (specifically industrialisation of different instruments cost-effective manufacturing NIPF specifically focuses on the technologies) are a prerequisite partner. diversification of the economy which include policies for successfully supporting the away from its traditional and regulation, and national imperatives. “We strive to position reliance on increased the implementation of It places a premium on industry the local aerospace value-add per capita. It is characterised by increased strategic programmes. development and technology and defence-related downstream participation in support by investing in key industry as a global higher value activities and Part of its overall approach technologies and partnerships, value chain segments; and relies on using national technology platforms and leader in niche areas technological leadership in infrastructure to reach its the use of national experts and accordingly, South specific technologies. objectives. One such strategic and facilities, located at the African industry is programme of the dti is the CSIR. Economic benefits and encouraged to advance Serving as the foundation for Aerospace Industry Support related impact include job the Industrial Policy Action niche capabilities and Initiative (AISI), which has been creation, job retention, skills Plan (IPAP), it also supports the managed and hosted by the development, transformation, technologies through growth and diversification of CSIR for more than a decade. cost savings, technology industrialisation. South Africa’s defence industry.

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AISI programmes of industry in sectors reliant Committee (JASC), by hosting specialised capability for the on advanced manufacturing the JASC secretariat. The AISI loads analysis of aerospace Supplier development for aerospace and defence. also contributes to national fuel tank structures. Original equipment flagship projects identified by The strategic focus remains on manufacturers are encouraged the JASC and implemented Coordination, SMMEs with the objective of to include SMMEs as well by the AISI. Unmanned aerial promotion and ensuring industry transformation, as lower-tier suppliers, to vehicles, and in particular, awareness and the broadening of the ensure the continuous transfer ground control stations, have economic base participating The AISI plays a pivotal role of knowledge, expertise, been beneficiaries of this in coordinating information in the industry. The AISI capability and technology, programme. on the aerospace sector in supports and implements and in doing so, broaden South Africa. Its work enables supplier development enablers, the industrialisation base. Special projects it to connect and share transferring technologies to Manufacturing processes Hosted by the CSIR to address world-class, home-grown improve SMME capabilities, developed as part of this technology challenges, the technology solutions with a and ensuring the appropriate programme include additive AISI is also tasked with giving myriad of companies – from skills and knowledge have been manufacturing and laser industry access to national SMMEs, original equipment transferred to sustain SMME shock peening; and project expertise and infrastructure. manufacturers, international economic participation. Some beneficiaries include the Projects undertaken are leaders in the sector, to South projects in this programme South African National Space technology advancement African higher education include supply chain Agency, the Square Kilometre projects. In one example institutions, science councils, improvement and optimisation, Array and unmanned aerial of technology transfer to government departments and the process design of vehicles. an original equipment and like-minded support titanium fluid-cell forming. Sector strategic support manufacturer and validation programmes. Awareness Industry development initiatives through the use of national creation is achieved through and technology support infrastructure, a collaboration a number of mechanisms such The AISI acts on behalf of the between Denel Aerostructures, as print, electronic media and The programme focuses on dti and the DST, as custodians the CSIR and the University selected events and networking advancing the involvement of the Joint Aerospace Steering of Pretoria will establish a opportunities.

121 DOSSIER || PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE CSIR CSIR | | VOLUME VOLUME 1 |1 SEPTEMBER| SEPTEMBER 2016 2016

DEVELOPING INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS LEVELS THE PLAYING FIELD

Benefits derived through Apart from creating jobs, this insulation blankets for the The automotive sector has supplier development projects project has increased Denel Airbus military transport shown noteworthy results from are many and include Dynamics’ confidence in aircraft, A400M. These its participation in the NCPC- competitiveness improvement, Sinjana Engineering because blankets are currently acquired SA’s Industrial Energy Efficiency productivity improvement, it now works according to the from a company in Canada. (IEE) Project. International improved lead times, processes it has created. It is Aerosud sought to increase pressure is mounting for all improved quality, cost savings, also able to manufacture critical the local content in the parts it sectors to reduce environmental compliance to environmental manufactures. The manufacture components. risks and ecological standards, improved delivery of insulation assemblies was scarcities through sustainable performance, increased Another project focuses on the industrialised at an Aerosud development. customer satisfaction and job good strength-to-weight ratio certified location, as mandated offered by natural fibres. This, creation and retention. by aerospace manufacture Tenneco Automotive is one with the growing popularity certifications. The intention Two specific initiatives of the example of success. An of green technologies and the was to create a long-term Department of Trade and international automotive need to reduce manufacturing sustainable platform in Industry, and hosted by the supplier with more than 90 costs, contributes to natural partnership with local SMME CSIR, are great proponents of production facilities worldwide, fibres being seen as a substitute Dreamhouse to manufacture supplier development. Tenneco South Africa became for synthetic glass fibres. The insulation assemblies for capability developed within aware of the IEE project at a Aerospace industry delivery to Airbus for the this project is linked to the two-day Energy Management support duration of the A400M project. use of natural fibres in the Other supply opportunities Systems training session. Of its five programmes, the development of South African will be investigated in parallel Following a decision to join the Aerospace Industry Support Regional Aircraft, a national with the current supply chain. full expert course, Tenneco was Initiative (AISI) places by flagship programme by Denel Aerosud has formed new selected as the host company far the biggest emphasis on Aerostructures. The aim of the relationships with its suppliers to showcase the implementation technology based supplier project is to take natural fibres and customers around the of the ISO 50001 Energy development. It is through the from research to production. topic of insulation blankets. Management Standard. enabling mechanisms inherent The project is now entering Denel Aerostructures, with to this programme that industry production phase. Interventions focused on is assisted to improve its the support of the AISI, is compressed air systems, lighting competitiveness, productivity characterising the material National cleaner initiatives, automatic metering and and quality management properties of an epoxy resin/ production emission control, among others. flax fibre composite laminate systems and in doing so, Apart from being one of the first The National Cleaner optimise its operations and with the purpose of using this Production Centre of South companies in the sector to receive procedures to ensure South material in the interior liners Africa (NCPC-SA) enhances the ISO 50001 certification, Tenneco African industry integration into of the new regional aircraft South African industry’s efforts also achieved financial savings global supply chains. developed under the SARA of nearly R2 million and energy project. Two SMMEs were used to improve competitiveness savings of 2 537 179 kWh. Sinjana Engineering, a black- to develop the local woven flax and reduce its environmental owned SMME, is one such footprint by identifying areas fibre fabrics: Herdman’s spins Overall, since 2009, company that required help the long fibre flax yarn and where energy, water and R653 million in potential with its production planning supplies Svenmill, who weaves raw-material efficiency and savings have been identified and quality management it and supplies the flax fabric to waste management practices through RECP assessments. systems. A needs analysis Denel Aerostructures. can be improved through showed that it lacked a the implementation of highly Through the IEE Project, 80 production planning system and A third example of supplier subsidised resource efficiency companies have saved 866 a revised and updated quality development concerns an and cleaner production (RECP) GWh of energy and R759 management system. Aerosud project to supply methodologies. million.

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The South African composites industry geared to compete globally

Industry players have come to Botha. The AISI is a programme realise the need to move to of the dti, housed at and ‘green’ technologies, reduce the managed by the CSIR. cost of manufacturing and move away from using conventional “One of the benefits for the local aerospace industry will materials. In the composites be a cheaper alternative to industry, natural fibres are seen synthetic fibres, with the design as an attractive alternative – and manufacturing data for particularly due to its good aerospace-related composite strength to weight ratio. structures,” Botha says. The CSIR manages the The CSIR plays a coordinating Collaborative Fibre Composites role by facilitating and R&D and Innovation Programme, formalising the collaboration on behalf of the Department of with research and academic Science and Technology. institutions, and initiating The programme contributes to industry collaborations. transportation in the automotive, The scope of work is large, rail and aerospace sectors. ranging from the growing of The focus is on structural The programme comprises eight natural fibres (kenaf), to the projects: applications (e.g. roof sheets) development of prototypes and marine applications, such for measurements, testing and as boat building, as well as evaluation, as well as industrial renewable energy technologies product development. This has Natural fibre quality (e.g. wind turbine blades). intrinsic benefits to both the Marine eco-composites agriculture and manufacturing “The goal is to take natural sectors. Engagement with fibres from a research Natural fibre-reinforced roof sheet industrial partners is ongoing environment and industrialise it to ensure alignment of research Bio-composites rail panels in the aerospace manufacturing topics with the true development environment, with specific focus Interior trim for Volkswagen and Mercedes priorities in industry. on locally produced fibres. The Bio-composites for mass transit applications outcome will be a ready-to- A number of students also use design and manufacturing benefit from the programme at Weight reduction on composites structures process for the selected fibres various levels – from National in an aerospace structural Diploma level through to post- Residual stress measurement in composites. environment,” says Aerospace doctoral research – as another Industry Support Initiative (AISI) means for the CSIR to support programme manager, Marié the local aerospace industry.

123 Joining forces for growth and development Design and layout: www.blackmoon.co.za DOSSIER | PUBLICATION OF THE CSIR | VOLUME 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016 www.csir.co.za

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The CSIR mandate

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) was established on 5 October 1945.

The CSIR’s mandate is as stipulated in the Scientific Research Council Act (Act 46 of 1988, as amended from time to time), section 3:

“The objects of the CSIR are, through directed and particularly multi-disciplinary research and technological innovation, to foster, in the national interest and in fields which in its opinion should receive preference, industrial and scientific development, either by itself or in co-operation with principals from the private or public sectors, and thereby to contribute to the improvement of the quality of life of the people of the Republic, and to perform any other functions that may be assigned to the CSIR by or under this Act.”

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