Author: Ross Newman

The Precinct
DefenceX Office

DefenceX Expands its Horizons: Unveiling New Offices at The Precinct

Aug 1, 2023 by Ross Newman

Greetings to all our valued supporters and curious passersby! We are thrilled to announce that DefenceX has officially moved into our new state-of-the-art offices at The Precinct. The heart of our innovative enterprise has now found a new home, and it is an exciting time for us as we embark on this new chapter of growth and development.

As part of our expansion, we have created a dedicated space to build out a cutting-edge capability demonstrator for a generic architecture in the land domain. This new addition allows us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of defense and technology. We are confident that this demonstrator will serve as a testament to our commitment to advancing the field and providing the best solutions for our clients.

Stepping into our new offices, you will immediately notice the transformation brought about by the new branding. Our office space reflects our dynamic and innovative approach, with a modern design that inspires creativity and collaboration. The fresh look reinforces our vision to stay at the forefront of the industry and continue delivering exceptional results.

We extend a warm invitation to everyone passing by our new location. Drop by and say hello to our passionate team, who are always eager to share our latest developments and insights with you. You will find us conveniently situated next door to our good friends at the Queensland AI Hub. This proximity fosters a fertile ground for knowledge exchange and potential collaborations, which excites us to no end!

At DefenceX, our journey is driven by our unwavering dedication to excellence, problem-solving, and constant innovation. Our new offices symbolize a step forward in realizing our goals and enhancing our capabilities. We eagerly anticipate the projects and partnerships that will flourish in this new space and are excited about the possibilities it will bring.

So, whether you’re a defense industry professional, a tech enthusiast, or simply someone curious about the future of the land domain, we welcome you to visit us at our new offices at The Precinct. Together, let’s shape the future of defense technology and forge a path towards a safer and more secure world.

See you soon!

The DefenceX Team

ADIN

A Night to Remember: AIDN QLD Gala Dinner Highlights and Gratitude

Jul 28, 2023 by Ross Newman

AIDN QLD recently hosted a magnificent Gala Dinner at the prestigious Brisbane City Hall, and it was an evening to remember. With over 345 ADIN Members and esteemed guests in attendance, the event was filled with camaraderie, insightful discussions, and memorable moments. In this blog post, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who made the evening a grand success and highlight some of the remarkable moments that made the event truly special.

Welcoming the Guests:

AIDN QLD President, Frank Harrington, set the tone for the evening as he warmly welcomed the attendees to the Gala Dinner. He took the opportunity to acknowledge the generous sponsors, esteemed guests, and the recent achievements of the AIDN QLD Defence Industry.

Thought-Provoking Speeches:

The evening featured a lineup of distinguished speakers who delivered thought-provoking and forthright speeches. The Hon. Di Farmer MP, Minister for Employment and Small Business, Minister for Training and Skills Development, and Minister for Youth Justice, emphasized the vital role that local SMEs play in Queensland and the government’s commitment to support them.

AIDN CEO Brent Clark expressed concern over the impact of the Defence Strategic Review on Australian Defence Industry businesses, reflecting the sentiments of many in the room.

Passionate Industry Perspectives:

Ben James, CEO of Platinum Sponsor NIOA Australia and New Zealand, delivered a passionate speech on the urgent need for action within the industry. He highlighted how a vibrant and functional defence industry is crucial in achieving strategic depth in an increasingly challenging global landscape.

Insightful International Perspective:

The Gala Dinner was graced by the presence of His Excellency Vasyl Myroshnychenko, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Australia. He shed light on the current challenges faced by Ukraine and emphasized the significance of Australia developing and maintaining its own sovereign capability.

Celebrating Excellence:

Two significant highlights of the evening brought immense joy to the crowd. Firstly, Kev Carroll AM was inducted as an AIDN Lifetime Member, acknowledging his invaluable contributions to the organization. Secondly, the 2023 AIDN QLD Young Achiever of the Year Award was presented to Rudraksh Goel of ECLIPS Logistics, recognizing his exceptional accomplishments.

Gratitude and Electric Atmosphere:

AIDN QLD extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who attended the Gala Dinner. From dignitaries and loyal members to other esteemed guests, your presence made the event truly special. The atmosphere in the room was electric, surpassing our own expectations.

Conclusion:

The AIDN QLD Gala Dinner was a resounding success, bringing together industry leaders, government representatives, and young achievers to foster meaningful conversations and celebrate excellence. We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making this event unforgettable. As we look back on the inspiring speeches, passionate perspectives, and remarkable moments, we are reminded of the power of collaboration and unity in driving the Defence Industry forward. We eagerly anticipate future gatherings that will continue to shape the industry’s progress and success.

Qld AI Hub

Pushing Boundaries with AI Acceleration and the Generic Vehicle Architecture

May 22, 2023 by Ross Newman

Introduction:

DefenceX, a leading innovator in the defense industry, has recently taken a significant step forward in revolutionizing the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) at the defense edge. The company proudly announced its participation in the Queensland AI Hubs Launch AI accelerator program, aimed at refining their product offerings and leveraging open standards to bring AI to the forefront of defense operations. Working alongside a community of talented entrepreneurs in the AI space, DefenceX is poised to make groundbreaking advancements in situational awareness and command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR).

Unlocking the Power of AI at the Defense Edge:

The Defense industry is no stranger to innovation, constantly seeking ways to enhance operational efficiency, decision-making processes, and overall situational awareness. By participating in the Queensland AI Hubs Launch AI accelerator program, DefenceX has shown its commitment to pushing the boundaries of what AI can achieve within defense operations. This collaboration with other visionaries in the AI field provides DefenceX with a unique opportunity to refine their product offerings and explore new possibilities.

The Power of Open Standards:

DefenceX recognizes the importance of open standards in developing cutting-edge solutions for the defense industry. By leveraging open standards, DefenceX can create flexible and interoperable systems that seamlessly integrate with existing defense infrastructure. This approach ensures that the benefits of AI technology can be harnessed without compromising the integrity of existing defense systems. The company’s dedication to open standards further demonstrates their commitment to collaboration and compatibility across the defense industry.

Showcasing Capabilities: The Generic Vehicle Architecture:

As part of their commitment to pushing the boundaries of AI in defense, DefenceX is actively developing a Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA) technology demonstrator. This project, housed in their new office space located in the Fortitude Valley Precinct, will serve as a showcase for DefenceX’s cutting-edge capabilities. The GVA technology demonstrator is poised to revolutionize vehicle operations within the defense sector, offering advanced features such as autonomous navigation, real-time data analytics, and enhanced situational awareness. By leveraging AI and open standards, DefenceX aims to provide defense forces with a future-ready vehicle architecture that enhances operational effectiveness and response capabilities.

Looking Ahead:

DefenceX’s participation in the Queensland AI Hubs Launch AI accelerator program marks an exciting new chapter for the company. By collaborating with other talented entrepreneurs in the AI space, DefenceX is at the forefront of driving innovation within the defense industry. The upcoming completion of the GVA technology demonstrator in their Fortitude Valley office space is a testament to their dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in defense technology. As DefenceX continues to refine their product offerings and expand their capabilities, the defense industry eagerly awaits the transformative solutions that lie ahead.

In conclusion, DefenceX’s participation in the Queensland AI Hubs Launch AI accelerator program signifies their commitment to bringing AI to the defense edge and revolutionizing defense operations. By leveraging open standards and collaborating with talented entrepreneurs in the AI space, DefenceX is positioning itself as a trailblazer in the industry. The development of the Generic Vehicle Architecture technology demonstrator further showcases their dedication to delivering cutting-edge solutions for enhanced situational awareness and C4ISR capabilities. As DefenceX continues to make strides in AI technology, the future of defense operations looks promising with increased efficiency, effectiveness, and adaptability on the horizon.

Autonomous Vehicles
UK Army with autonomous platforms

A communications backbone for the autonomous battlespace.

May 13, 2023 by Ross Newman

When considering communication protocols for cross-platform communications and control of autonomous platforms in defense applications on the battlefield, several factors need to be taken into account. Key considerations include reliability, latency, security, scalability, and interoperability. Here, I’ll provide a comparison of some commonly used communication protocols and evaluate their applicability in this context:

Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT):

  • MQTT is a lightweight publish-subscribe protocol designed for constrained devices and low-bandwidth, high-latency networks.
  • It provides a simple and efficient way to distribute messages among multiple devices using a broker.
  • MQTT’s low overhead makes it suitable for resource-limited autonomous platforms, but it may not be ideal for scenarios requiring high-speed real-time control due to its reliance on a centralized broker.

Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol (XMPP):

  • XMPP is an open-standard communication protocol primarily used for instant messaging and presence information.
  • It enables real-time messaging and supports various extensions for additional functionalities.
  • XMPP offers strong security features and good interoperability but may not be the best choice for high-performance control applications due to its focus on messaging and presence rather than low-latency communication.

Data Distribution Service (DDS):

  • DDS is a middleware protocol specifically designed for real-time, high-performance, and scalable data sharing.
  • It uses a decentralized publish-subscribe model with a data-centric approach.
  • DDS provides low latency, reliable data delivery, and supports Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms for prioritization and data filtering.
  • DDS is well-suited for autonomous platforms in defense applications that require real-time control, data synchronization, and scalability. It is widely used in mission-critical systems.

Advanced Message Queuing Protocol (AMQP):

  • AMQP is an open-standard messaging protocol that provides reliable, message-oriented communication.
  • It supports both publish-subscribe and point-to-point messaging patterns.
  • AMQP offers features such as message acknowledgement, queuing, and routing, making it suitable for reliable and secure communications.
  • While AMQP can be used for cross-platform communication, it may not be as performant as DDS in terms of latency and scalability for control of autonomous platforms.

Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/IP):

  • TCP/IP is the foundational protocol suite of the internet, providing reliable, connection-oriented communication.
  • It offers a wide range of protocols, including TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol).
  • TCP/IP is highly interoperable and widely supported, making it a good choice for cross-platform communications. However, TCP/IP may not be the best option for real-time control due to potential latency and the need for additional protocols or mechanisms to handle reliability and synchronization.

gRPC

  • gRPC is a high-performance, open-source framework developed by Google for remote procedure calls (RPC) across different platforms and languages.
  • It uses the Protocol Buffers (protobuf) serialization format for efficient and compact data transfer.
  • gRPC supports bidirectional streaming, flow control, and authentication mechanisms.
  • It provides strong support for load balancing and service discovery.
  • gRPC offers excellent performance, low latency, and scalability, making it suitable for cross-platform communication in autonomous platforms.
  • However, gRPC may require additional security mechanisms for defense applications due to the sensitivity of data being transmitted.

Representational State Transfer (REST)

  • REST is an architectural style that uses the HTTP protocol for communication between systems. It is based on a client-server model where clients send requests to servers, and servers respond with the requested data.
  • RESTful APIs provide a standardized way to interact with resources over the web using HTTP methods such as GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE. REST is widely adopted, simple to implement, and supports stateless communication.
  • It offers good interoperability and scalability, making it suitable for cross-platform communications in defense applications. However, REST may not provide the same level of real-time capabilities as some other protocols mentioned in this article.

Conclusion

Considering the requirements for control of autonomous platforms in defense applications, DDS appears to be the most suitable protocol. It offers low-latency, real-time communication, reliability, scalability, and a robust set of QoS mechanisms. However, the final choice should consider specific use cases, system constraints, and interoperability requirements within the defense application environment.

DDS is already widely used in Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA) enabled land vehicles and autonomous cars, where it facilitates the exchange of sensor data, control commands, and situational awareness information. It’s also the communications bus underpinning Robot Operating System (ROS2).

The same underlying principles that make DDS suitable for vehicle architectures can be extended to cover autonomous drones. Drones require similar capabilities for coordination, communication, and situational awareness, making DDS an excellent choice for their control and swarming capabilities.

Updated:

Over on LinkedIn there were expressed some concerns regarding the mixed message formats, transport protocols, security, and latency considerations in the context of radio communications for autonomous systems. Let’s address your points one by one:

  1. Mixed message formats and transport protocols: It’s true that there can be various message formats and transport protocols used in autonomous systems, including TCP/IP and UDP. The choice of format and protocol depends on the specific requirements and constraints of the system. While the article might have presented a mix of formats, it’s important to select the appropriate combination that suits the given application.
  2. Security: If you are using a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) radio that supports TCP/IP and UDP, the security measures can be implemented at the radio stack level. In such cases, additional security measures at the message format level might be redundant. However, it’s worth noting that security is a critical aspect in any communication system, and it’s always advisable to implement multiple layers of security to ensure robust protection against potential threats.
  3. Latency on RF networks: RF networks can introduce latency due to factors like signal propagation, interference, and network congestion. Achieving near real-time communication can indeed be challenging in RF networks. When designing autonomous systems, it is crucial to consider these latency limitations and build mechanisms to handle delayed or intermittent communication. The suggestion of having a decision tree, such as the Primary, Alternate, Contingent, and Emergency (PACE) model, is a valuable approach to ensure system functionality in various communication scenarios.

A recommendation to start with RF considerations and design the system accordingly is a prudent approach. Understanding the limitations and uncertainties of wireless communication in autonomous systems is vital to ensure reliable operation even in challenging environments.

If you would like to further discuss this topic or require additional information, please feel to reach out on LinkedIn.

Press Release

VivoeX: Dropping the ‘Lite’ and Lighting Up Military Vehicle Software Development!

May 6, 2023 by Ross Newman

We are excited to announce that we are renaming our C4ISR toolkit from Vivoe Lite to VivoeX. This updated edition offers a more complete solution for developing C4ISR applications implementing the Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA). Our updated Software Development Kit (SDK) is available under open source licensing and now comes with additional features to support media streaming (with MediaX) and cross-platform HMI renderer for developing military vehicle software for multiple roles on a vehicle.

Our commercially supported edition, VivoeX Pro (out later this year), is designed to provide even more robust support for Land Data Model (LDM) services developed as part of the Land Open Combat Architecture (LOCA). With this edition, you’ll also get access to tooling and AI modules (with SituationX) for rapid development of in-vehicle and soldier-worn applications.

The renaming of our C4ISR toolkit from Vivoe Lite to VivoeX reflects the evolution of the tool’s capabilities, making it even more powerful and flexible than before. VivoeX Pro will offer a complete solution for developing C4ISR applications, including GVA support, media streaming with MediaX, cross-platform HMI renderer, and LDM services developed as part of LOCA.

We believe that open source licensing will help drive innovation and collaboration among developers in the military vehicle software space. The new features of VivoeX, along with the existing capabilities, will enable developers to create cutting-edge applications with ease.

“VivoeX Pro is our flagship product, designed to provide developers with the necessary tools and modules for rapid development of in-vehicle, autonomous and soldier-worn applications. The inclusion of Land Data Model (LDM) services developed as part of the Land Open Combat Architecture (LOCA) is a crucial aspect of VivoeX Pro. With these services, developers can create applications tailored for land-based operations, ensuring our military personnel have the right tools for their missions.” – Ross Newman, Founder of DefenceX.

Overall, we are excited about the new capabilities that VivoeX offers. The renaming of our toolkit reflects our commitment to continuously improving our software and supporting developers in the military vehicle software space. We believe that VivoeX will enable developers to create innovative and powerful C4ISR applications, providing military personnel with the tools they need to carry out their missions effectively.

Press Release
PRM Engineering

DefenceX supports PRM Engineering

Apr 17, 2023 by Ross Newman

DefenceX to provide consultancy and engineering resources for upgraded Sentinel Vision Vision A.I. Human Recognition & Warning System

PRM Engineering, a leading provider of industrial machinery safety systems, has announced that it has partnered with DefenceX, a renowned defence technology company, to upgrade its Sentinel Vision AI enabled Pedestrian Recognition & Warning System. The upgraded system will feature enhanced reliability, increased vigilance and better object collision avoidance than a human spotter.

The Sentinel Vision AI system, which can be retrofitted to any machine, is capable of monitoring hazardous zones for pedestrian detection and object collision avoidance. The system features pre-warning and audible alarms that provide the operator and pedestrian with an opportunity to take action, either by stopping the machine or moving away safely. Additionally, the system has an optional Motion Stop integration that allows machine control if the operator or pedestrian fails to stop or move away safely.

Customers have reported superior detection distance, low light performance, ruggedness and reliability of detection compared to older technologies. Furthermore, the detection zones are fully configurable to any shape by width and distance, and larger machines can utilize more cameras for rear blind spot detection.

“PRM Engineering is excited to partner with DefenceX to upgrade our Sentinel Vision AI enabled Pedestrian Recognition & Warning System,” said a PRM Engineering spokesperson Avril Davis. “The collaboration will ensure that our system continues to offer cutting-edge technology to our customers. We look forward to working with DefenceX to provide our customers with the best possible solutions for their needs.”

DefenceX is equally thrilled about the partnership with PRM Engineering, stating that they are looking forward to providing consultancy and engineering resources for the upgraded system. The new system will undoubtedly improve pedestrian safety in hazardous zones, and the optional Motion Stop integration will further enhance machine control and safety.

About PRM Engineering Services

PRM Engineering Services are passionate about safety and with a long-standing heritage of safety system design and installation since 2002, PRM Engineering Services benefits from a total understanding of the earthmoving industry and the interfacing of systems for the OEM. We are consulted by and partner with, Government and Tier one Industry Leaders, to find solutions to ever-evolving machinery and people-interfacing capabilities. The company offers customized solutions that are designed to meet the unique needs of each client.

About DefenceX

DefenceX is a defence technology company that provides consultancy, software and engineering services to clients in the defence, security and aerospace industries. The company’s expertise includes C4ISR, artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, and unmanned systems.

Qld AI Hub

DefenceX is ready to Launch AI

Apr 11, 2023 by Ross Newman

DefenceX, a leading technology company specializing in defence and security, has recently joined the Queensland AI Hub accelerator program Launch AI. This move is aimed at exploring new and innovative ways to bring AI to military edge computing. Through the use of technology insertion, the company’s AI-enabled C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) system can better understand the environment, increase tactical awareness, reduce cognitive burden, and ultimately increase the effectiveness of tactical decision-making.

The use of AI in defence and security is not a new concept, but it is one that has gained increasing importance in recent years. The military has long relied on technology to gain an edge on the battlefield, and AI is no exception. In today’s rapidly changing and complex world, the ability to process large amounts of data in real-time is critical to maintaining the military’s operational advantage. DefenceX’s AI-enabled C4ISR system is designed to do just that.

By leveraging the power of AI, DefenceX’s C4ISR system can process large amounts of data from various sources, including sensors, unmanned systems, and other platforms. The system can then analyze this data in real-time, providing commanders with a more accurate and comprehensive picture of the battlefield. This increased situational awareness enables commanders to make faster, more informed decisions that are based on real-time data.

DefenceX’s C4ISR system is also designed to reduce the cognitive burden on military personnel. By automating many of the tedious and time-consuming tasks associated with data analysis, the system allows military personnel to focus on more critical tasks, such as mission planning and execution. This can lead to increased operational efficiency and a higher level of effectiveness on the battlefield.

Joining the Queensland AI Hub accelerator program Launch AI is an exciting step for DefenceX. The program provides access to a network of industry experts, investors, and mentors, who can help guide the company’s AI development efforts. This collaboration will also provide opportunities for DefenceX to showcase its AI-enabled C4ISR system to potential customers and partners.

Hardware

DefenceX add support for APC Technology GVA Display

Mar 21, 2023 by Ross Newman

Exciting news from DefenceX! We are proud to announce that our C4ISR software and solutions now support the Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA) and with support from APC Technology, we have updated our flagship product, Vivoe Lite, to run on their rugged display out of the box.

This represents a significant milestone for DefenceX, as we are now able to offer indigenous GVA-compliant hardware for the Human Machine Interface (HMI). Vivoe Lite is at the heart of a vehicle platform, providing the operator interface and services needed to build a complete architecture capable of interfacing with sensors, effectors, and subsystem components in the automotive domain.

What’s more, our HMI framework is open and free to download, and we are (as always) happy to give demonstrations to interested parties. With deep domain knowledge and expertise in this area, we are committed to helping our customers get their ground vehicle platform to market quickly and effectively.

At DefenceX, we are passionate about providing cutting-edge technology solutions that support the needs of the defence sector. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest levels of service and support to our clients, and we look forward to continuing to innovate in this space. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals.

Software

Website update

Mar 8, 2023 by Ross Newman

DefenceX, a leading provider of advanced defence solutions, has recently updated its website with a fresh and modern look. The new website features a sleek design that is easy to navigate, making it simple for visitors to find the information they need quickly.

The updated website reflects DefenceX’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in defence. The company is constantly striving to provide its clients with the most advanced solutions and services, and this updated website is just one example of this dedication.

Visitors to the new DefenceX website will find a wealth of information about the company’s products and services, as well as the latest news and updates from the world of defence. One area to explore is the company’s blog, which provides insightful articles about the latest trends and developments in the defence industry.

The blog aims to cover a wide range of topics, from emerging technologies to global security issues, and is updated regularly with fresh content. It is a great resource for anyone interested in staying up to date on the latest happenings in the defence industry.

DefenceX’s commitment to innovation and excellence is evident not just in its website, but also in its products and services. The company offers a range of cutting-edge solutions for defence and security, including advanced surveillance systems, sophisticated communication networks, and highly effective defence technologies.

The DefenceX team is made up of experts in their respective fields, with years of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges facing the defence industry. This expertise allows the company to provide its clients with the most effective solutions and services, tailored to their specific needs

Software

Vivoe Lite 0.4.0 Released

Mar 4, 2023 by Ross Newman

Introducing the latest stable release of Vivoe Lite, the ultimate software development toolkit for ground vehicles that enables C4ISR application development and rapid deployment. With Vivoe Lite, you can streamline the development process and deploy your applications with ease on both Windows and Linux platforms.

Vivoe Lite is designed to provide developers with a powerful toolkit that includes all the necessary features and tools for C4ISR application development. Its intuitive interface and customizable development environment make it easy for developers to create, test, and deploy applications quickly and efficiently.

Vivoe Lite has everything you need to create powerful, reliable, and efficient applications. Its advanced features include real-time data collection, monitoring, and analysis, as well as robust networking and communication capabilities.

With Vivoe Lite, you can develop and deploy applications faster than ever before, saving time and resources while increasing efficiency and effectiveness. Its compatibility with both Windows and Linux platforms makes it a versatile and accessible solution for any development team.

So why wait? Try Vivoe Lite today and see for yourself how it can transform your C4ISR application development and deployment process.