How the Norwegian military learned to use their exercise areas to the full while maintaining good relationships with their civilian neighbours.
Driving a 60 tonne Leopard 2 battle tank in an exercise area and knowing its exact location and the amount of noise it generates is challenging. That’s why the Norwegian military launched a comprehensive noise-measurement project for military equipment.
The aim of the project was to ensure that the military can continue to use its exercise areas to their maximum and still maintain a good, long-lasting relationship with their civilian neighbours by complying with the country’s strict environmental legislation.
An acquisition station was established in the field, connected to PULSE acquisition hardware. A second acquisition unit was placed inside the Leopard tank to measure throttle position and GPS location. They were both connected via wireless LAN to create a detailed noise map.
The data and results from the measurements ensure that, during future exercises, tanks stay within areas where the sound and vibration they create remains within acceptable levels for the surrounding community.
Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI) is the prime institution responsible for defence-related research in Norway.
The Establishment is the chief adviser on defence-related science and technology to the Ministry of Defence and the Norwegian Armed Forces’ military organization.
The demand for expert and flexible armed forces requires continuous renewal and Norway’s unflagging emphasize on defence technology keeps FFI busy. It is a true challenge to make significant contributions to the development of the Armed Forces – both in its principal national defence role as well as in its various roles as an effective participant in international security operations.
Relevant defence research now requires international cooperation. In order to maintain a position at the forefront of science and technology within chosen sectors, FFI collaborates with national and international scientific institutions and industry. The Establishment also has a close working relationship with its partners and customers.