When it comes to defence platforms such as land vehicles, naval vessels or airborne systems, power system design plays a critical role in the platforms longevity and durability, which can often be underestimated.
At On-systems we work as a partner to defence, aerospace and military clients. Our team designs and manufactures power solutions that meet current requirements and protect the long-term operational value of the whole platform.
The Cost of Inadequate
Power Design
A defence platform with platform power that doesn’t consider performance, reliability, environmental stresses and platform level interoperability doesn’t always show limitations or failures straight away, it will often only become visible under real world conditions. Poorly specified power systems speed up wear on connected subsystems, generate excess heat, present electromagnetic interference (EMI) and create additional maintenance that adds up over a platform's service life.
The cost of substandard power design shouldn’t solely be measured by the procurement figures. It should also be measured in downtime, unplanned maintenance, early obsolescence and mission risk.
Why Power System Design Should Be Considered At The First Stage
Defence platforms are built to last for decades. For example, a frigate, armoured vehicle or aero platform could be expected to stay in active service for 20 to 40 years. The power system specified at the outset will shape all upgrades and refits that follow.
Getting the power design right from the start means considering several factors:
- Can the power system scale with extra loads as new equipment is added?
- Is heat dissipation designed for operational environments not controlled conditions?
- Does the system keep continued operation if one component fails?
- Is the design compliant with defence standards - DEF STAN, MIL-STD or RTCA DO-160?
- Is there enough efficiency to reduce the logistical burden over the platform's lifetime?
Ensuring that the power system design tackles each of these areas is more cost effective than adding solutions later.
Thermal & Environmental Stress Impacts Lifespan
As with many electrical and electro mechanical systems, power systems reliability could be affected by thermal stress. When power electronics operate outside their designed temperature range, there is a sustained impact on interconnects, passive devices and semiconductors.
At On-systems our design process takes into account the full environmental scope a platform will work in. Whether that’s from extreme temperatures, altitude pressure changes or vibration. We apply rigorous thermal modelling and environmental stress screening (ESS) to ensure that every power unit we supply is built to last.
Designing For
Upgrade & Insertion
Defence programmes require continuous capability development. A power system that cannot accommodate new equipment or sensors becomes an operational liability.
Power design with interfaces and margins built in for future load growth means that platforms can handle new technology without a redesign. This is an area where On-systems excels. Our team work with prime contractors and integrators so that power architectures stay flexible across the full programme lifecycle.
Platform longevity in the defence sector is a system level challenge. But power design is an integral factor. By investing in the right power supply at the beginning, you can reduce whole life costs, extend availability and protect long term capability.
At On-systems we bring technical expertise and an understanding of defence needs to every project. Whether you are specifying a new platform or updating an existing one we can help with power systems that last. Get in touch with us to discuss your power design requirements.
