The reduction of size, weight, and power consumption (SWaP) is a major stake in the military environment. Advanced and sophisticated sensors come with increased power requirements and larger physical footprints – Reducing SWaP is consequently essential to ensure that modern military systems remain lightweight, compact, and energy-efficient while still delivering high performance.
User experience and feedback are key for Bertin Exensor, as they allow us to keep developing Flexnet according to real requirements coming from the field. There is one aspect our team mostly composed of ex-military personnel has perfectly understood: decrease the SWaP of the equipment is critical to reach effectiveness and contribute to the success of combat missions.
Each Flexnet sensor shares common characteristics with the other parts of the system: Integrated battery, GPS, radio, and electronic components. Combining all these in a small, lightweight, and low-power device is a challenge that Bertin Exensor managed to achieve so soldiers can remain mobile and preserve their endurance, to maneuver more effectively on the battlefield. This is particularly important in modern warfare scenarios that often involve rapid deployment and dynamic operational environments. Overall, a low SWaP provides benefits across the entire logistics chain (transportation, maintenance, and storage).
Many Flexnet kits and configurations exist depending on the use case, from a handful of sensors to a fully extended system comprising dozens of devices deployed over a large area. Nonetheless, a basic Flexnet manpack composed of several sensors and hardware to operate the system weights under 20 kilos and fits in a 40L backpack, while giving remote Intelligence gathering, surveillance and early warning capabilities for two different locations simultaneously.
With a low SWaP also comes enhanced stealth and concealment capabilities, as the equipment can contribute to reduced signature profiles. This is significantly important for military units operating in hostile environments, during reconnaissance, surveillance, and special operations missions.
In summary, the importance of a reduced SWaP in Flexnet and military systems in general stems from its ability to enhance mobility, operational flexibility, logistical efficiency, soldier endurance, and stealth, ultimately contributing to a tactical advantage over the opponent.
