BAE Systems has agreed a partnership with a leading e-textiles developer, Intelligent Textiles Limited (ITL), to deliver Broadsword Spine, an innovative piece of wearable technology which can turn clothing into networked technology, in high volumes at low cost.

The new product has been designed by a leading provider of defence, aerospace and security solutions specifically as an alternative to the heavy portable data and power supplies currently carried by military and emergency service personnel.

Broadsword Spine

Broadsword Spine is an e-textile based layer that when added to a user’s clothing is said to create an invisible electronic network and power supply, by using conductive fabrics instead of wires and cables.

With the innovative network, users can plug vital electronic devices straight into their vest, jacket or belt and have them instantly hooked into power and data via USB – all delivering an estimated 40% weight saving per user versus alternative solutions, according to the manufacturer.

Working together, BAE Systems and ITL will be delivering these lightweight devices to personnel including the armed forces, fire and rescue services and law enforcement. Broadsword Spine is also designed to be robust enough to operate in the harshest environments, including being resistant to water, fire, humidity and shock – and can be recharged in the field via in-vehicle charging points or through simple battery replacements.

Lightweight alternative

“Broadsword Spine will deliver a lightweight, cable free and better alternative to existing systems. It is the first product of our partnership with ITL and uses its revolutionary e-textile allowing power and data to move through fabric,” commented Paul Burke, Defence Information and Technology Director within Military Air and Information.

“It will be more flexible, robust and lighter than the heavy, unwieldy harnesses which are currently used. Broadsword Spine offers an open architecture, meaning it could be used to power communications used by anyone from a soldier on the battlefield to a first responder called to an emergency.”

Partnership

Asha Thompson, Director and Co-founder of ITL, added: “Our partnership with BAE Systems builds on a long-standing relationship, and is our logical next step in providing our customers with a cost-effective product.”

“It allows us to retain our agility and innovative nature for developing other technologies, yet gives Broadsword Spine the support of BAE Systems' international reputation and footprint. This puts Broadsword Spine on a fast-track to delivering benefits to customers.”

www.baesystems.com