Qinetiq and Vestas Wind Systems have successfully trialled wind-turbine technology that could release 9GW of potential sites blocked by objections from radar operators.
The ‘Stealth Turbine’ technology comprises a 44m prototype turbine blade that effectively reduces the size of the radar signature made by individual turbines. According to Qinetiq, the reduction is significant enough for wind turbines to be ‘factored out’ of air-traffic-control and air-defence systems.
Recently tested at a wind farm in Norfolk, the Stealth Turbine employs radar absorbing materials (RAM) that are integrated into the current manufacturing processes for turbine components, such as the blades, nacelle and tower.
For the trial, a prototype stealth blade was fitted onto a Vestas V90 turbine. Radar cross-section measurements were taken using the Qinetiq multiband pulsed-radar system, with results showing significant RCS reductions in line with expectations.
Stealth blade to free up turbine sites
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What a really good innovation, but wait a minute Vestas are a Danish company, why don’t we build them?
Thank you Michael Pickles. Yes Vestas are Danish. Qinetiq are 100% UK funded. These turbine blades were developed in the Isle of Wight using UK funding . Vestas sacked UK workers to ensure employment in Denmark.
What should we say to Vestas?
If we pay go away? Or something like that. The answer may be blowing in the wind. UK wind is ours!