Sperry supplies IBNS for X-Craft

Northrop Grumman Corporation has supplied its latest Integrated Bridge and Navigation System (IBNS) for the U.S. Navy?s new Littoral Surface Craft, the experimental or ?X-Craft,?.

The vessel?s IBNS was designed, engineered, integrated and installed by Northrop Grumman?s Sperry Marine business unit and integrates more than 200 separate bridge and navigation components. It includes a naval electronic chart display and information system, meeting the Navy?s emerging standard for paperless charts, as well as a speed log, echo sounder, autopilot, radars, gyrocompasses, global positioning systems and weather sensors. The bridge system is also integrated with engine and steering control systems and closed-circuit TV that can be used to assist in docking.

“Working under a tight six-month schedule, the Sperry Marine X-Craft team produced an innovative cockpit-style bridge designed specifically for the unique requirements of a high-speed naval craft operating in near-shore waters,” said Steven Nordtvedt, X-Craft program manager, Titan Corporation. “Because the X-Craft will operate at speeds up to 50 knots, the IBNS is critical for optimal performance. For example, Sperry Marine?s innovative bridge layout provides the ship?s pilot and navigator with full control over multifunction display consoles from a seated position using ergonomic armrest controls.”

John Peuplie, high-speed naval craft engineer, American Bureau of Shipping added, “The X-Craft IBNS is highly unique as an integrated bridge system that is designed to meet both the International Maritime Organization High Speed Craft Code and the American Bureau of Shipping Navigation and Integrated Bridge System requirements.”

The X-Craft is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in April 2005 after extensive sea trials.