Vanguard Magazine

22 JUNE/JULY 2019 www.vanguardcanada.com plex and contested maritime environment. The Victoria-class is an extremely im- portant capability for the RCN and the Government of Canada, and DNR is working hard to advance this moderniza- tion program. Q Since unmanned aircra systems (UAS) are an integral part of Canadian warships, what type of capabilities are you looking for in the future and in what sort of timeline? As outlined in SSE, DND has committed to acquiring Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to provide near real-time intelli- gence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) information to ships at sea. These unmanned aircraft systems will provide critical over-the-horizon situational awareness and generate a tactical advantage for commanders while minimizing the risk to Halifax or Kingston-class ships and/or their maritime helicopter, in support of ba- sic to complex multi-threat operations. For ship captains, the Intelligence, Sur- veillance and Reconnaissance capability provided by a UAV is extremely important in the conduct of operations and the de- fining of the battlespace. A deployed UAV offers 24/7 coverage in support of Joint and Maritime operations. The integration of Scan Eagle previously onboard Hali- fax-class during operations in the Indian Ocean was extremely valuable. Similarly, the PUMA UAS onboard Kingston-class ships has been tremendously successful. The PUMA UAS has proven its value dur- ing Operation CARIBBE in the interdic- tion of vessels participating in illicit trade in the eastern Pacific and Caribbean Sea. For the Halifax-class, DNR is work- ing towards the installation of a vertical take-off and landing system that can pro- vide ISTAR information from a minimum range of 50nm for deployment in 2020. This project will shape the development of requirements for RCN ISTAR, the follow- on UAV program for the RCN. Q Training continues to be a major factor for both the future fleet and the legacy fleet. How is this evolving in particular with System of Training & Operational Readiness Modernization (STORM)? As the RCN embarks on the largest fleet recapitalization in peace time history, it recognizes the need to develop an inte- grated training system that leverages tech- nology and modern learning methodolo- gies. The System of Operational Training and Readiness Modernization (STORM) project reflects recognition. Under this project, we are looking to ac- quire Technology Enabled Learning sys- tems to enhance core-skills training, and to maintain Halifax-class training through the end of the platform's service life. We are also working with the Arctic and Off- shore Patrol Vessel, Joint Support Ship, and Canadian Surface Combatant proj- ects, to coordinate on new training tool requirements. The vision is that our officers and sailors will enter a training system that is powered by the latest technology which will both excite and engage them. Through the use of modern training methods and technol- ogy we will be preparing our officers and sailors for the challenges of operating in the modern battlespace and thus enabling excellence at sea. The young Canadians joining today's fleet need to be provided the most cutting edge in technologically advanced training methods that leverage Virtual and Augmented Reality. The goal is to provide as realistic training as possible to more rapidly and better prepare our sail- ors for operations at sea. Q In closing, what would you like to leave us with? When I reflect back over my two years as Director Naval Requirements, I can hon- estly say that I have enjoyed and valued the opportunity. It has been an honour to serve with the outstanding and dedicated members of the DND and RCN Force Development team to advance the RCN's Major Capital Program. I would be remiss if I did not also high- light the exceptional efforts of organiza- tions both internal and external to the CAF that have supported and enabled the execution of the RCN program, includ- ing the Chief Financial Officer, the ADM (Material) Group, the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff-Group, Public Services and Procurement Canada, Innovation, Science and Development Canada, and the Cana- dian Association of Defence and Security Industries, to name only a few. I truly appreciated the opportunity to work and collaborate with industry to im- prove DNR's overall understanding and vision for moving the RCN forward. I would encourage industry to continue to engage with the RCN Force Development Team in these efforts, as I know that this will contribute to the success of the future Royal Canadian Navy. We recognize that you (industry) are part of the greater defence team: YOU think as we do, and YOU are critically important for delivering capability to the Fleet. interview The Scan Eagle UAV from the flight deck of Her Majesty's Canadian Ship REGINA. Photo: Cpl Michael Bastien, DND. Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Summerside conducts Unmanned Aircra System trials at sea. Photo: Master Seaman Ronnie Kinnie, DND

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