A MALVERN high-tech research and development company is developing a wavelength system for helicopters it has appropriately called Elgar.

IQHQ, which is based on Malvern Hills Science Park, is creating a unique and secure video data waveform which will be adopted as the new standard for helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles in many different infrastructure and utility commercial applications. The system has already been registered as a trade mark and is named after the famous composer who walked the Malvern Hills to enjoy the skyscapes.

The company has been able to grow its business following a Worcestershire Expansion Programme grant. The Programme, which is supported by the Government’s Regional Growth Fund and delivered locally by Worcestershire County Council on behalf of the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, was put in place to enable local companies to realise their growth potential, strengthen their position in the market and lever in private investment, safeguard jobs and to increase productivity and growth.

IQHQ specialise in researching and developing radio frequency, microwave and video systems and have engineers who deliver innovative solutions for commercial organisations via both mobile and fixed wideband communications.

With £61,953 invested by the company, and matched by the grant, IQHQ are now able to further research and develop the unique waveform. The investment has led to six new jobs being created,while safeguarding another seven full time positions.

Company managing director Maurice Husband, said: “In order to maintain our leading edge capabilities in communication systems as well as expand our engineering base IQHQ wanted to invest in state-of-the-art test facilities. The Worcestershire Expansion Programme grant has solved these problems and allowed us to maintain our dominant position in the provision of the next generation of data link systems. Our Clients are well aware of the latest test equipment we need to deploy to meet the latest challenges that new technology has to meet. Such facilities are also important in maintaining the high degree of engineer expertise we have recruited now and in the future.”

Gary Woodman, executive director of the Worcestershire LEP, added: “It is great to see the difference that this funding is making to businesses such as IQHQ. There is an exceptional technology cluster in Malvern, with the National Cyber Skills Centre also based on the Malvern Hills Science Park, and it is great to see the cutting edge technology which is being developed right here in the County. It is also good news to see the growing workforce at IQHQ and their investment in skills for the younger workforce.”

The Worcestershire Expansion Programme overall has seen £2,265,892 invested levering £13,789,205 from the private sector. The programme will safeguard 103 existing jobs and create 240 new positions.