Verus Research announces the award by the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane Division in Indiana of a $52M, 56-month effort to establish a radiation combined environments test capability. Contracted under the “Cornerstone” Other Transaction Authority (OTA), the program will design, develop, integrate, test, and deliver a combined environment test capability comprised of neutrons and gamma radiation energy.

To meet NSWC Crane’s requirements, Verus Research will develop “Orthrus,” a neutron and gamma test capability comprised of a dense plasma focus (DPF) neutron source and an electron linear accelerator gamma simulator. Under a current contract supporting the Survivability Vulnerability and Assessment Directorate at White Sands Missile Range, Verus Research is already developing the Axial Radiator for Electronics Exposure System (AREES), the only DPF capable of meeting Crane’s neutron source requirements. Under the Navy effort, Verus Research will build AREES-II as the neutron source and has teamed with Treas Engineering and Element Aero to develop a new electron linear accelerator (known as “Tempest”) capable of meeting the needs for gamma/X-ray simulation.

The need for a high-intensity, pulsed neutron source combined with a prompt ionizing radiation dose is derived from the requirement for military systems to successfully operate in the presence of nuclear weapon detonations. When integrated, AREES-II and Tempest will provide a revolutionary combined radiation test capability suitable for ensuring the survivability and operability of U.S. systems in the harshest of environments.

Dr. J. Mark DelGrande, Verus Research Chief Technology Officer, took note of the work of the “entire Verus Research team that was able to successfully propose a large and intricate hardware integration effort a totally new customer in NSWC Crane.”  Dr. DelGrande went on to observe that “Verus Research demonstrated to NSWC Crane a level of technical and corporate maturity found in much larger companies, instilling confidence in the Navy and garnering one of our company’s most significant wins.”