Sensors and Low Observables

Information from sensors enables us to perform better in crisis situations. Sensors, or systems of sensors, can provide early warning, monitor events, help to manage response actions and clarify the extent of any damage.
 
Signature reduction (stealth technology) is about denying an adversary the effective use of his sensors.
 
FOI’s sensor research covers sensors for use both above water and underwater, as well as studying the special environment in which they operate. Important scientific disciplines include optronics, lasers, radar, acoustics and sensor signal processing. In particular, the possibilities offered by networks of sensors operating together are being studied.
 
Within the area of stealth technology, FOI is focusing on smart surface materials and the modelling of targets and backgrounds. We have contributed to world-leading initiatives such as the Visby corvette project, the Swedish Navy’s new class of vessel built using carbon reinforced plastic laminate which combines a number of very good properties such as rendering the vessel non-magnetic and difficult to detect using radar or infrared technology (IR).
 
FOI provides support for its principal customer, the Swedish Armed Forces. It contributes through participation in the development of new equipment and by undertaking studies of future possibilities. Recent examples of new customers are the EU, for which FOI is engaged in security research, Autoliv (automotive safety systems) and Rymdbolaget, the Swedish Space Corporation.