Kelvin Hughes has broken new ground by obtaining European Type Approval for its revolutionary SharpEye™ solid-state navigation radar.

As a result of testing by QinetiQ, the UK’s Type Approval Authority, Kelvin Hughes’ SharpEye™ radar transceiver has been granted Type Approval. Peter Goddard of QinetiQ commented, “SharpEye™ is the first solid-state system we have seen and it represents the latest in technology. It has passed all the required tests and has a noticeably sharper picture than an equivalent magnetron-based system”.

Commenting Barry Wade, Kelvin Hughes’ Technical Development Manager said, “This is the first of our products making use of the new SharpEye™ solid state radar technology that we have developed over the last three years. This new technology will revolutionise the radar industry, providing performance and reliability that has previously only been possible with multi-million dollar military systems. The technology in both its S-Band and X-Band formats has application not only for navigation but will play an important role in security with its incorporation in VTS and coastal surveillance systems.

Russell Gould, Kelvin Hughes’ MD commented, “Building on its reputation for innovation, Kelvin Hughes has listened to the market’s demand for a radar with improved reliability, improved performance, increased safety, lower maintenance and lower cost of ownership and has designed a solution that achieves it all. We know this will delight our customers and provide significant operational and safety benefits. Together with our unique MantaDigital™ display technology, this new sensor underlines Kelvin Hughes’ position as the supplier of the world’s most advanced navigation systems.”

The first deliveries of SharpEye™ systems are due in April and with its proven world-wide installation and service capability, Kelvin Hughes has already secured global sales for the new system.