Richard Hardy

Richard Hardy

Senior Consultant and Trainer for TÜV SÜD Academy

Tell us about yourself

I’ve spent over 30 years in EMC test houses and consultancy providers working across the Defence, Aerospace, Nuclear and Space domains, fascinated by the theory but informed and influenced by practical experience gained across a wide range of projects from armoured land vehicles through large MOD Infrastructure redevelopment to novel propulsions systems for space probes.

In 2016 I was persuaded unwillingly to present an EMC Training course for a customer and eventually found this area to be both fascinating and highly productive with over 50 courses both general and highly tailored now under my belt delivered to audiences from small sub-contractors to the MOD themselves.

What are your main areas of expertise?

I specialised in Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) for highly demanding sectors such as Defence, Aerospace, Nuclear, and Space. My expertise spans the entire process—from testing and trials to developing test, control, and management plans, as well as preparing all associated documentation. I also manage corrective actions and deliver training programmes.

In addition, I work with COTS/MOTS solutions and focus on areas such as signature management, shielding effectiveness, NEMP protection, lightning protection, RADHAZ, and TEMPEST compliance—covering everything from individual components to complete infrastructure systems.

What most excites / interests you about your role? What have been the highlights so far? Are there any interesting projects coming up?

After 30 years with my previous company, I’m relishing the different opportunities and new challenges at TÜV SÜD but dropping into a project and learning rapidly about a new system, platform, technology area or site will always be fascinating.

What future trends do you see developing in your area of work?

The increasing use of COTS and MOTS equipment in the defence and space domains, valid concern over RFDEW/EW, NEMP and TEMPEST threats, rationalisation of DEF STAN 59-411 and MIL STD 461 into NATO AECTP 250/500 together with the increasing complexity of defining how to test the next generation of systems and platforms while at the same time training and mentoring the next generation of EMC specialists.

What is your biggest challenge?

One of my biggest challenges is joining  a project at a later stage, as it can limit the opportunity for planning and preparation. I’ve learned that early involvement is never a waste of time, particularly in large or complex projects where fundamental early decisions can be difficult to change later. 

ADDITIONAL INFO 

Do you sit on any standardisation committees or any other relevant industry committees? 

Yes, I’m involved in future updates and ongoing maintenance to a number of Defence EMC Specifications and have been responsible for the development of bespoke, tailored EMC specifications for projects and sites.

Have you presented at any industry events? Provide event name, date and presentation topic. 

I have recently presented on: 

• High performance RF Shielding Techniques  
• Commercial Off The Shelf equipment into UK Navy Platforms 
• EMC Testing to MIL STD 461/464 on high power radar systems 
• NEMP and LEMP testing of deployable mobile assets 
• EMC matters and control across a large MOD Infrastructure project 

Anything else you’d like to add?

Outside of professional life I manage the family farmland, plant trees, dig ponds and I’am an avid chalkstream fly angler. 

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