Reutech

Reutech Radar Systems

Primary brands, products and services
Develops and manufactures ground and naval search and tracking radar systems. Significant contracts include the supply of sensors and software for the country’s Ground Based Air Defence System programme, tracking sensors for the Valour-class frigates and more recently, helicopter management radar for the Royal Norwegian Navy.

Mining radar sensor systems used in open-cast mining operations are supplied internationally in increasing quantities as the product range expands.

Operational areas
Based in Stellenbosch

Market sectors
Products are developed for open cast mines, local and foreign defence forces. Renewable energy is a new market sector being explored.

Standards & verifications
ISO 9001: 2010

Intellectual property rights
Floodlight radar system for detecting and locating moving targets in 3D

Current BBBEE level

2012 target

Number of mines using our radars 46

Radar Systems enjoyed a successful year, with financial performance exceeding targets on the back of increased sales in existing and new markets. With the development of new products, the business has successfully broadened its client base beyond its traditional defence sector focus.

During the year, the RSR 210N radar system was successfully trialled by the Norwegian Navy and installed on its frigates, with further systems due to be installed in the new financial year. This order represents an important step into the European and international defence markets. We are also investigating an entry into the Middle East homeland security market. Such has been the success of the Norwegian implementation that we are confident of replicating this success with other customers such as India and Canada.

Similar export success was achieved with sales of mining surveillance radar systems. Mining today represents more than half of Reutech Radar Systems’ revenue. These radar systems are currently being used at 46 mines around the world, up from 29 the previous year and just 18 in 2009. The systems hold a dominant position in the South African market and have been well received in North America, Europe, Australia and Papua New Guinea. A major target for 2012 will be to establish a market presence in India and other emerging markets.

During the year a new facility in Stellenbosch was commissioned to manufacture mining radar systems. This new facility currently produces two to three units per month, and we hope to increase production in 2012. Radar Systems will be launching a new-generation mining radar solution in 2012, which is expected to maintain Reutech’s leadership position in this area.

In addition to a solar tracker system for use in various solar power applications, Radar Systems is developing specialised radar for the mitigation of the negative effects of wind turbine generators on air traffic radar. The research and development team in Stellenbosch is able to develop local intellectual property related to renewable energy projects in conjunction with offshore partners as well as cooperating with other companies within the Reunert group for the rollout of large-scale renewable energy products. This augurs well for the future.