MIRA Ltd - Defence Vehicle Engineering Design, Development, Integration and Test

MIRA is a leading independent engineering company specialising in delivering automotive technology to the defence sector. MIRA’s capabilities cover whole vehicle design, integration, testing and certification. MIRA has globally renowned expertise in chassis systems, advanced hybrid powertrains, electrical systems, power management and unmanned and autonomous ground vehicles.

To support our engineering activities we have over 30 major test facilities including EMC, climatic chambers, vibration testing facilities, vehicle dynamics facilities and a comprehensive proving ground with over 80 km of different types of tracks and features. MIRA has nearly two acres of secure workshop space and subject matter expertise in all areas of vehicle technology. In particular, our defence business is focused in EMC, environmental engineering, unmanned vehicles and power management systems.

EMC testing and development for military vehicles

MIRA is the largest independent EMC test and development centre in Europe and our engineering capabilities are world-class. We have been delivering fully compliant vehicle EMC solutions for both the MOD and OEMs. Our scope covers the full military and defence EMC standards to def-stan 59-411 and MIL-Std 461 as well as the global homologation standards.

Military vehicle environmental engineering

At MIRA we have undertaken many vehicle environmental engineering programmes using a wide range of advanced tools and techniques including simulation, component and vehicle-level testing. We have expertise in reproducing battlefield missions for all military vehicles for virtually any territory under controlled and repeatable conditions through both simulation and proving ground testing. These trials ensure that vehicles developed by MIRA meet the exacting requirements for reliability and durability.

HVAC and powertrain cooling systems for military vehicles

Vehicles operating in higher ambient temperatures and with increased engine loads, due to increased mass puts increasing demands on powertrain cooling systems and makes air conditioning essential. MIRA has engineered many HVAC and powertrain cooling systems for all types of vehicles.

Unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) and autonomous vehicles

MIRA has managed several UGV programmes and has developed bespoke vehicle platforms as well as ‘drop-in’ systems for the conversion of legacy vehicles. All systems incorporate elements of MIRA’s modular UGV electronic control systems configured to meet the required application.

High-performance high mobility universal UGVs

For example MACE 2, MIRA’s second generation UGV, is a high-performance high mobility universal platform. Controlled via a 5km range non-line-of-sight communications system, the vehicle incorporates semi-autonomous systems which significantly reduce operator workload. On-board intelligence includes waypoint following, local obstacle avoidance, haptic feedback and cruise control. Situational awareness is provided to the remote commander through cameras, on-board vehicle diagnostics, GPS and other data. Further operator aids are under development.

Its smaller forerunner ‘MACE 1’, a fully autonomous vehicle, collected the prize for “Best Use of Autonomy” at the high profile MOD Grand Challenge 2008.

Hybrid and electric powertrains & power management systems

MIRA has an impressive track record in delivering hybrid vehicle programmes, for example the development of a series hybrid system for the new Jaguar XJ. Our expertise focuses on systems definition, powertrain and battery system design and integration. Our ability to design, develop and comprehensively test the vehicles on one site is a significant advantage to our customers.

MIRA has developed batteries and conditioning systems for electric vehicles and other applications such as silent watch. Our battery management systems capability has been developed over many years to ensure refined power delivery and battery longevity. MIRA’s hybrid and electric powertrain systems offer clean electrical power generation. Engineering specialists at MIRA served as primary advisors to DSTL for the latest issue of Def-Stan 61-5 and our Power Management Systems are compliant with this updated requirement.

Programme management for wheeled and tracked vehicles

MIRA’s Defence Group has significant expertise in the development of both wheeled and tracked vehicles and their systems. We have been responsible for the delivery of products and engineering solutions for many customers such as BAE Systems, General Dynamics, NP Aerospace, Lockheed Martin and the MOD.