Thales has invested in Canada-based Virtual Marine's embedded ship simulation system as part of a new multi-phase research and development project.
With an investment of more than $315,000, the project will involve development of a ship simulator for use across a range of platforms and projects in both naval, coastguard and commercial applications.
Primarily it will support advanced platform testing and integration requirements for the Royal Canadian Navy programmes such as Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships and Joint Support Ships In-Service Support (AJISS).
Virtual Marine chief technical officer and executive vice-president Randy Billiard said: “The Ship Simulator Research project will result in a more innovative and technologically advanced ship simulator software product that will build on existing simulation technologies to enhance integration support and training options for prime defence integrators.
“It will be tested by users who understand the need to properly de-risk systems for safe and full operational integration. This project will further position Virtual Marine as a leading and innovative provider of marine simulation solutions.”
The research project will leverage Thales's extensive software engineering expertise and capabilities in big data, connectivity, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to upgrade baseline technology.
The 12-month project will help provide the company with improved embedded navigation simulation capabilities support.
In August last year, Thales received a C$800m AJISS contract from the Government of Canada to provide in-service support, refit, repair, maintenance and training to the Canadian Navy's Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS) and Joint Support Ships (JSS).
https://www.naval-technology.com/news/thales-invests-ship-simulation-system/