Westica's 1.4GHz Multirate Radio has the ability to provide long haul radio links, smart card memory configuration, increased bandwidth efficiency and integration with other systems. The IP-based system also allows for the introduction of route diversity.

The PLA must cope with some 30,000 ship movements yearly.

The new system enables it to mange an increasing flow of voice and data transmission without the loss of quality or dependability.

The PLA has also recently signed a contract with the Maritime Research Institute Netherlands (MARIN) for supply of a ship manoeuvring simulator which will meet their operational needs. To be installed at the Gravesend operations centre, the simulator will consist of a complete bridge, equipped with six visual channels, radar, ECDIS, and all relevant controls and instruments. It will also include an instructor station and separate debriefer and modelling station.

With a lead time of seven months, MARIN and the PLA will continue to co-operate in the compilation of the database installation and final design of the simulator layout. A number of PLA pilots are currently being trained at the MARIN simulator centre at Wageningen in the Netherlands. Once commissioned, the PLA intends to make simulator training a central part of the training of all PLA pilots.

MJ Information No: 17439