L3Harris Firing on All Cylinders

L3Harris Firing on All Cylinders

BY GABRIEL OAKLEY

L3Harris Technologies (Booth 309) marks 40 years since the introduction of its Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS). This achievement will be recognized during CANSEC where L3Harris will celebrate its innovative technology and global applications. This Canadian technology remains one of the most successful Halifax-class program innovations to date. From this early RCN partnership, L3Harris has progressed to exporting IPMS to more than 300 vessels in 27 navies around the world. In Canada, L3Harris has participated on all legacy vessels as well as the new ships under the National Shipbuilding Strategy including the Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships, Joint Support Ship, Offshore Fisheries Science Vessel and the Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC).

The story of IPMS began in the 1980s when L3Harris developed the technology for the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). Contracted to develop the Shipboard Integrated Machinery Control System Advanced Development Model, the Montreal-based business was asked to design and implement a pioneering concept to reduce crewing onboard the Halifax-class frigates that were being designed. In response, L3Harris developed a single, integrated system that automated all major platform systems on the vessels which later became known as IPMS. This Canadian technology remains one of the most successful Halifax-class program innovations to date. From this early RCN partnership, L3Harris has progressed to exporting IPMS to more than 300 vessels in 27 navies around the world. In Canada, L3Harris has participated on all legacy vessels as well as the new ships under the National Shipbuilding Strategy including the Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships, Joint Support Ship, Offshore Fisheries Science Vessel and the Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC).

ENHANCING CANADIAN SURFACE COMBATANT’S CAPABILITIES

As part of the CSC program, L3Harris has been entrusted with the design and development of the IPMS for the new warships. This sophisticated control system will be used to manage the ship's propulsion, power generation and auxiliary systems. It will also interface with the ship's sensors, weapons and other critical systems. The system also incorporates advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine-learning and cyber management. It is also highly resilient and redundant, ensuring that the ship's systems can continue to operate even in the event of a failure or damage.

One of the key benefits of the IPMS is its ability to enhance the safety and situational awareness of the ship's crew. The system will provide real-time monitoring and control of the ship's systems, allowing the crew to quickly respond to any issues that may arise.

“It is a powerful system that will enhance the performance, reliability and safety of the new warships,” said Rich Foster, Corporate Vice President, Canada, L3Harris. “Our IPMS continues to be a significant contributor to the Canadian defence industry and a source of pride for our company and its employees.”

To mark the 40th anniversary, L3Harris has created a commemorative coin and will host an exclusive champagne toast for VIP guests at the L3Harris booth.

Over the past 40 years, L3Harris has been at the forefront of IPMS development and implementation. They are thought-leaders in shipboard platform integration that play a critical role in supporting navies around the word. Visitors to CANSEC are invited to visit booth #309 and learn more about the company’s latest innovations and their ongoing commitment to excellence.

In other news, Leonardo (Booth 1511) and IMP Group (Booth 813) have selected L3Harris Technologies to deliver four WESCAM MXTM-15 electro-optical/infrared systems to upgrade the RCAF’s fleet of 16 Leonardo CH-149 Cormorant Search and Rescue (SAR) helicopters. These upgrades will ensure the fleet meets military and SAR aviation standards.

As a major contributor to the Cormorant Mid-Life Upgrade program, the WESCAM MX-15 will help modernize the 20-year-old helicopters and address a critical need for improved image sensor technology. Advanced stabilization and high-definition infrared imaging will aid the RCAF in completing high-elevation rescues in extreme weather conditions, over rough seas and in the Arctic with increased effectiveness and situational awareness.

“Search and rescue missions demand the most from our EO/IR technologies,” said Kristin Houston, President, Electro-Optical, L3Harris. “We are proud that our long relationship with the RCAF has contributed to the safety of Canadians from sea to sea. We are committed to enabling Canadian and international SAR operators to save more lives.”

Manufactured in Canada, L3Harris’ WESCAM MX-15 has equipped the RCAF with state-of-the-art imaging technology for more than 25 years. It provides situational awareness on leading RCAF platforms including the CH-146 and CH-147, and aboard the CH-149 and CC-295 SAR platforms.

Finally, L3Harris Technologies, CAE (Booth 1611), Thales (Booth 1701) and Babcock (Booth 321) are excited to announce that 4 recipients of the Canadian Industrial Leadership Award (CILA) will have the opportunity to meet with Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED), the Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, at CANSEC 2023. This meeting will provide an excellent opportunity to highlight the importance of mentorship in the aerospace, maritime, defence and security industries.

In advance of the meeting, The Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry commented "By investing in the next generation of STEM talent, the Canadian Industry Leadership Award is helping Canada to cement its position as a leader in innovation and inclusion, and is promoting a more diverse and educated workforce. That’s why it is amazing to witness the success of the initiative in continuing to support young Canadian women in their careers within the defence and security sectors."

CILA was established in 2019 to enable industry to invest in future leaders in the defence and security industries while promoting a more diverse workforce. Since then, participating companies have awarded over twenty students enrolled in STEM programs at Universities across Canada with paid internships, executive mentorship and financial support to offset university costs. Additionally, each recipient is given the opportunity to participate in cross-company learning activities, exciting project challenges to meet their academic requirements and to develop their skillset as the next generation of STEM talent.

“We are grateful to Minister Champagne for his continued support of the CILA program as well as taking the time to personally meet with these exceptional young women. It is wonderful to see the positive effect this program has on the careers of young professionals in our industry,” said Rich Foster, Corporate Vice President, Canada, L3Harris.

France Hebert, Vice-President and General Manager, CAE - Defence & Security Canada added, “We are proud to offer eligible students the chance to intern at our companies and expose them to the strategic and executive aspects of our businesses.”

“Our hope is to inspire young professionals to pursue careers in the defence and security industries and to take advantage of mentorship opportunities available through programs like CILA,” remarked Jerry McLean, CEO, Babcock.

In addition to meeting the Minister of ISED at CANSEC, CILA students from the four participating companies will be attending a collaborative event at Thales’ offices in Montreal, QC in June where they will speak to executives, mentors and colleagues about the projects they have been working on and their experiences at their respective companies. The event will also feature a keynote on Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG). CILA’s annual cross-company events allow the award recipients to network, share experiences and learn about the industry, the companies and leadership opportunities.