Systems and engineering consultancy Frazer-Nash has announced that it is working with the MoD on a study into the provision of water to personnel in action. 

Supported by Atkins, Frazer-Nash is overseeing research into the opportunities for utilising new technologies in field water supply systems.  For many years the military has relied heavily on bottled water supplies; however, the study is looking at alternative means of managing, sourcing and supplying water.

Frazer-Nash was appointed through its role in a consortium led by SEA which is overseeing a range of research projects for the Defence Technology & Innovation Centre (DTIC) and Equipment Capability - Expeditionary Logistics and Support (Cap(ELS)).

The project has been divided into several work strands, to firstly examine ‘high maturity’ technology suitable for imminent introduction, before researching lower maturity technologies which may offer improvements to effectiveness in the future.  The research has considered technologies within each stage of the process, from the identification, planning and management or raw water sources, to the treatment, testing, distribution and issue of potable water.

Commenting on the project, Frazer-Nash Business Manager Mark Dorn said:
“As part of this project, over 300 potential technologies have already been identified through a structured methodology which has included the assessment of manufacturers, university research programmes and the technologies employed by foreign military forces.  This has been combined with expert knowledge from the civil water and waste water industries, provided by Atkins.

“Working with MoD stakeholders, a number of these ‘high maturity’ technologies have been selected for further cost/benefit analysis, and technology roadmaps have been developed.  The project is now concentrating on assessing a number of the lower maturity technologies which could provide effectiveness improvements in the future.”

The project is due to be completed in August this year.  As an additional piece of work, Frazer-Nash will be now also looking at opportunities for commonality between water and fuel supply systems to realise effectiveness improvements or cost savings.