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Saab Double Eagle
The Double Eagle Concept uses a modular approach to provide
flexible systems for MCM applications (Mine Hunting, Mine
Disposal). It is aimed at providing a hydro dynamically stable,
highly reliable system with exceptional performance and low
life cycle cost.
The Double Eagle is used by Navies around the world on many
types of ships.
Example of ship types where installation of Double Eagle
System exist
It has also been adapted to the craft of opportunities (COOP)
concept where the Double Eagle is integrated in a container
that can be easily installed on almost any type of
ship.
Example of containerized installation of a Double Eagle System
The design of Double Eagle was from day one targeted on
modular design and open architecture with the possibility to replace
main system elements. This allows upgrades and reconfiguration, enabling
use of new technology and changes in naval tactics/strategy as part of
an evolutionary strategy. This has lead to a system where core functionality
and core subsystems have been reused in several products and configurations,
all to provide system with extreme stability yet still highly manoeuvrable.
Operational possibilities
Mine Disposal (ROV-M)
In mine disposal configuration (ROV-M),
the Double Eagle is fitted with a relocation sonar and a
disposal charge. The precise manoeuvring allows the ROV to
place a medium sized Mine Disposal Charge (MDC) within
a few cm's of the mine. This is achieved with the minimum
of noise and without complicated control systems that add weight, size,
complexity, and cost to the system. In addition to the MDC, the ROV
can also deploy an explosive cutter to counter moored mines.
Mine Hunting (ROV-S)
Traditional mine hunting is performed
by a MCM ship provided with hull mounted - or towed sonar.
The new generation of mine hunting system is to integrate
a sonar on the powerful Double Eagle running several hundreds of meters
ahead of the ship in a “dog
in the leach” driving mode mission (ROV-S). This arrangement not
only increase the ship and crew safety, but also increases
the performance of the sonar as it is possible to vary depth
and viewing angle to the target.
Based in the well proven Double Eagle
control system a high power vehicle has been developed to
provide extreme power enabling the use of the Double Eagle
in high current environment.
Double Eagle MkIII configured as a ROV-S
with a trainable
forward-looking sonar
SAROV
The SAROV package gives Double Eagle autonomous capability
and still retains all the features of the basic system. It
consists of fairing components, a battery pack, modules for
communication and navigation and a docking unit. The SAROV package
requires factory modification of the ROV.
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| Double Eagle MkII configured as SAROV |
SAROV Package |
SAROV package enhances the capabilities of the Double Eagle
family of ROVs. It adds autonomous operation and underwater
docking to the capabilities of the existing systems. It allows the ROV
to be operated both with and without a tether cable. This increases the
range and versatility of the Double Eagle ROVs. It extends their capabilities
for mine hunting and maritime security operations into difficult areas
such as shallow waters and harbours. It also enables the ROVs to be used
from remote platforms and multi vehicle operations. Of course the Double
Eagle is available in a SAROV configuration direct from the factory when
originally delivered.
Tools
The ROV can be supplied with a hydraulic manipulator
tool pack. This tool pack is installed underneath the ROV
partly using the same mechanism that holds the MDC. It can
therefore be easily installed and removed according to needs.
Additional tools can be carried and deployed by the manipulator.
An example is a salvage claw that is intended to use for
picking up objects that are heavier and more bulky than what
the vehicle can pick up with the regular grip.
Tether Protection System
The Double Eagle ROV-S/ROV-M system
is a tethered vehicle. As such the tether has a large influence
on performance, operation and safety. To minimise this influence
and allow the ROV to operate as freely as possible a tether management
system consisting of a Tether Protection System (TPS) and a constant
tension winch has been developed. The winch, ROV and TPS work together
to keep the tether under even tension at all times. This ensures tether
safety and ROV stability during a ROV in a “dog in the leach” driving
mode mission. Tether position is calculated based on deployed
tether length, tension and water conditions. This information is transferred
to the tactical system ensuring that the system can be operated
in a safe way.
A TPS will to a high degree expand the operational envelope
of the proposed ROV-M(S) system.
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