Ventia has been awarded a contract with BAE Systems Australia, one of the world’s largest aerospace, defence and information security companies

To deliver a new chiller plant system for the Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN), a critical component of Australia’s defence infrastructure. 

The new contract spans three years and underscores Ventia’s expertise in providing high-performance, reliable solutions for complex and demanding environments.

One of the world’s most advanced OTHR systems

JORN is a cornerstone of Australia’s Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. It provides wide-area surveillance of the northern approaches to Australia and covers a range of up to 3,000 km from the country’s shores. JORN’s Over-The-Horizon Radar (OTHR) technology allows it to monitor air and sea movements continuously, making it one of the most advanced OTHR systems in the world.

JORN’s origins can be traced back to a simple ‘concept demonstrator’ in the desert near Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. It has evolved over half a century to become a world-class OTHR, which significantly contributes to Australia’s national security. (read more about JORN here: Ventia | Breaking ground on JORN defence project) 

BAE Systems Australia

BAE Systems Australia maintains the three High Frequency (HF) Transmit (Tx) and Receive (Rx) sites on behalf of the Commonwealth that form the backbone of JORN. These sites are strategically located in remote areas of Australia. The maintenance and operation of these sites are crucial for the continuous and effective functioning of JORN.

Ventia’s Scope of Work

Under this new contract, Ventia will undertake all activities necessary to deliver the new chiller plant and ensure it is fully operational. This includes: 

• Design Verification: Ensuring the design meets all specified requirements and standards.
• Finalising the Design: Completing detailed design work to prepare for manufacturing.
• Manufacture: Producing the components of the chiller system.
• Installation: Setting up the system at the designated sites. 
• Testing and Commissioning: Conducting thorough tests to ensure the system operates correctly and efficiently before it goes live.

Unique Challenges

The chiller system for JORN is not a standard commercial or industrial system and must meet several unique and demanding requirements.

Firstly, the radar systems in JORN generate significant heat due to their high-frequency operations and extensive coverage area. The chiller system must handle these high thermal loads consistently and efficiently to ensure the radar equipment operates reliably under all conditions. 

Secondly, JORN’s radar stations are located in some of the most remote and harsh environments in Australia. The chiller system must be robust and reliable, capable of operating with minimal maintenance in these challenging conditions. 

Additionally, the system must integrate seamlessly with the advanced radar technology used in JORN. This includes precise temperature control to maintain the optimal performance of sensitive electronic components. 

Ventia’s Group Executive – Telecommunications, Mark Ralston said: