Nova Systems supported Roke Manor Research Ltd on a Home Office contract to demonstrate RF network coverage for the Emergency Services Network (ESN) Air Users at Critical Operating Locations (COLs) across the whole of Great Britain.
Solution
Nova Systems were able to provide our own EC-135 systems testbed helicopter which is configured to support a modular mission system. The test equipment was therefore able to be installed without additional modification to the aircraft, which significantly reduced the cost and time of integration.
Our T&E team provided direct support in the preparation and conduct of the flight trial. Our personnel possessed the required expertise in test flying, Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) operations to elevated hospital helipads, project management and aircraft system design.
We understood the complexity of operating in the congested airspace of central London and were able to coordinate with air traffic control to achieve the required testing without impacting the other users of the hospital helipads.
Outcome
Through Nova’s robust flight test assessment and assurance process the Test Pilot was able to not only conduct some demanding test points, but also work with the customer on developing more efficient test methodologies by providing a flexible and versatile capability to meet the requirements of Roke and the Home Office.
Moving from a Permit to Fly through to a fully cleared Supplemental Type Certificate for the instrumentation enables Nova to provide a flexible, responsive test solution for trials campaigns.
Following on from the success of this project, Nova Systems has supported further COL assessments in collaboration with Roke and the Home Office.