Lincad develops bespoke power source for Leonardo’s Guardian Shield EOD ECM System

Lincad, has developed a bespoke power source for a new explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) electronic countermeasures (ECM) system designed by defence and security equipment supplier, Leonardo.

Guardian Shield is crucial for protecting against the threat of remotely detonated explosives. It detects, locates and identifies threat signals before employing a precise and targeted ECM signal to neutralise those threats, protecting lives and property against a potential detonation.

The system has been designed and built in the UK and enters service with the British Army in 2025, following the contract being awarded in 2022. It will also be available for export to global customers in military, security and policing organisations.

The system consists of two main elements: a forward element hosting advanced electronic surveillance and electronic attack capabilities; and a rear element hosting command and control, and processing capability. The forward element of Guardian Shield can be rapidly deployed via a remote-controlled vehicle, or manually via EOD specialists.

Lincad’s power source supplies the forward element of Guardian Shield. With a unique dual battery interface adaptor (BIA) design, it allows two Lincad LIPS 15 batteries to be connected in parallel, providing the system with around 1.4kWh of energy at 24V. The dual BIA allows the LIPS 15 batteries to be ‘hot swapped’, thus ensuring a continuous supply of power when depleted batteries are being removed and replaced.

The power source has had to demonstrate excellent EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) and environmental performance, ensuring reliability in the field and resilience in hostile situations. Lincad’s LIPS 15 batteries are already in-service with UK MOD, in addition to a range of LIPS battery chargers designed and manufactured by Lincad, which has reduced overall system costs to the customer.

Peter Slade, Lincad’s Joint Managing Director said, “We are extremely proud to be working with Leonardo and its various industry partners on this new EOD ECM technology. We have provided power solutions to Leonardo for many years, and we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in lithium-ion battery technology and design. Leonardo trusts us to deliver on its requirements for these mission critical applications.”