University showcase research at Farnborough International Air Show 2016

Published: 5 July 2016

The University is set to showcase its aerospace and defence expertise at the biennial Farnborough International Airshow, taking place this year from 11 to 17 July.

Based in the Innovation Zone (Hall 3, Stand 21) our exhibition will focus on three main themes: autonomy, sensors and cyber security.

These themes are closely aligned with University plans to secure greater collaboration with the aerospace sector, where key growth areas for investment exist.

Emphasising these themes will enable us to showcase the expertise within our strategic research groups for Autonomous Systems and MENSUS (Monitoring of Engineered and Natural Systems Using Sensors) and promote our broader cyber and security capabilities, including the recently established Cyber Security Academy. We also aim to exploit the growing aerospace requirement for optoelectronics technologies, enhanced sustainability, and improved logistic and operational efficiency.

A new and exciting initiative this year is the University’s inclusion in the Farnborough flying displays where a Southampton Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) will beam live photography onto TV screens across the exhibition halls.

Aerospace is a hugely important area for Southampton and we plan to showcase our extensive research at this important event. Undeniably the Airshow provides considerable opportunities to strengthen our industry relationships and present our expertise to the thousands of attendees.

Futures Day

Futures Day, on Friday 15 July, is one of the highlights of the Airshow calendar when the event opens its doors to over 5,000 younger people. It’s a chance for this audience to see the exciting career opportunities available in the Aerospace and Defence sectors, and participate in a variety of expert talks, educational activities, competitions and group work, all designed to raise awareness of related industries and careers.

Central to the day is the Innovation Zone, where students can experience aerospace technology of the future and meet with academic institutions. We will be demonstrating the University’s Human Flying Wing Suit and showcasing our flight test simulation as part of the PRiME project.

With student recruitment a high priority and a new aeronautical electronics degree programme launching shortly, the Airshow provides considerable exposure to industry and prospective students. Keen to identify and support home grown talent in Hampshire, we have initiated direct contact with Hampshire schools, colleges, universities and youth groups to urge them to visit our stand and take advantage of the opportunities Farnborough presents.

Futures Day activities and tickets are FREE.

Farnborough International Airshow - a truly global event

In 2014:

39 countries represented by exhibitors
53 countries represented by visitors
40 international media broadcast crews attended
Top five exhibitor countries: USA, RUSSIA, UK, ITALY and FRANCE
Total sum of orders and commitments over US$200bn
Over 100,000 trade visitors
Strong UK government attendance

Spottter flying display

The “Spotter” unmanned aerial vehicle was developed by the University as part of the 2SEAS-3i European Interreg project. Spotter is a twin engine, 4m wing span, fixed-wing aircraft which has been designed to perform long-endurance, all-weather patrol missions in coastal and maritime environments.

Below you can watch Spotter's flying display on day one at the Farnborough International Airshow 2016, sharing the runway with an A380, A350 and an A400M. Spotter will display everyday around 1pm, and a daily live stream is available on Youtube.