EXPAL has celebrated the 25th Edition of the Santa Barbara Innovation Awards, an initiative organised by EXPAL parent company MAXAM to promote a culture of innovation at all levels within the organisation.
EXPAL chief technology officer (CTO) explained: “Any employee has the opportunity to identify and suggest new ideas and innovative solutions that provide a differential value.
“The teams working on the ground, in the production lines or in contact with the armed forces, are the ones that quickly detect any new need or challenge to provide safety, precision and the most advanced systems for any mission. For this reason, on many occasions, significant technological developments that respond to specific needs of the armed forces have emerged from the Santa Barbara Awards.”
Global head of people and resources Fernanda Cardama added: “Innovation is one of our fundamental values as a company and a distinguishing mark of each and every one of MAXAM professionals. We have a global, multicultural and diverse team, that drives us to innovate every day.
“Constantly exploring new paths and possibilities is the only way we know to continue creating value for all our stakeholders, while still contributing to the progress of society.”
The Santa Barbara Innovation Awards have sparked significant technological developments within the company over its 25-year history. In the last 10 years alone, prototypes of some of the most innovative EXPAL developments, aimed at increasing the operational capacities of the armed forces and the safety of troops, have participated in the awards.
EIMOS, the EXPAL 60/81mm mortar system on a 4X4 vehicle, is one of the most notable projects that derives from the Santa Barbara Awards. This innovative solution provides greater precision, reliability and better deployment time to contribute to the survival and safety of troops.
Another significant development that stems from ideas rewarded by the company has been rocket engine regranulation technology. EXPAL developed a system that lengthens the operating life of rockets by 15 years by renewing the solid propellant, which lost its properties with time and could become a safety risk.