The customer needed a full console upgrade to bring current, reliable technology to the Mine Hunter fleet while retaining the consoles’ original look and feel. As CAD models of the legacy designs were unavailable, they required complete reverse engineering support from existing paper drawings and samples. The design had to meet strict operational requirements, including the use of low-magnetic signature materials and integration of the equipment with accessible servicing capabilities. Additionally, they needed a single, UK-based partner to manage all aspects of production, from prototyping through to final assembly, ensuring consistent quality and efficient delivery.
Captec Subsystems Engineering provided end-to-end support, starting with the reverse engineering of CAD models and on-site collaboration during prototype development. Acting as a technical bridge between multiple defence primes, we ensured seamless coordination on design requirements. Our project management extended through the mechanical build, coordinating subcontractors and overseeing a complex Bill of Materials (BOM). Stainless steel construction reduced the consoles’ magnetic profile, essential for mine-hunting activities, while a custom VME subrack enhanced serviceability. Precision-engineered fixtures enabled reliable assembly, ensuring the consoles retained their original footprint for easy retrofitting.
Captec’s streamlined supply chain management consolidated all metalwork manufacturing and assembly, allowing the customer to focus on their core day-to-day projects. The newly developed CAD data provided a sustainable design reference for future orders and updates. Successfully retrofitted across multiple Mine Hunter vessels, the consoles deliver enhanced functionality with familiar usability, effectively extending the operational readiness and lifespan of the fleet.
