QuickShield, a textile-based, lightweight net designed to stop rocket-propelled grenade threats (RPG) from penetrating vehicle armor was unveiled by the U.K. Ministry of Defense netting today, as part of the ministry’s National Science and Engineering Week. QuickShield is applied as a ‘band aid’ for bar armor’ enabling armored vehicle crews to rapidly replace damaged bar (slat) armor on military vehicles in the field. The QuickShield net is stowed in the vehicle, and can be fitted immediately without any tools. It is due to be delivered to Afghanistan in April 2011 as part of a £2.6m contract.
Textile-based TARIAN armor (below) was developed by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) with Dorset-based AMSAFE in Bridport. TARIAN provides lightweight protection against RPGs, in places where bar armor cannot be applied. In 2009 MOD aquired the first sets of TARIAN to protect Heavy Equipment Transporters bound to Afghanistan.
Armored fighting vehicles face other challenges when operating in urban combat. They are exposed to snipers or anti-tank teams operating from elevated positions on rooftops or accessing underground shafts too close for the crew...
Operating drones low above ground and in complex terrain represents unique challenges, as most drone controls are limited to line of sight and uninterrupted satellite-based navigation. To endure in a GNSS-contested environment and operate indoors or underground, standard drones would not operate in such conditions. The drone platforms specially designed for subterranean or indoor environments require unique networking, sensing, navigation, and controls to enable such operations. Since these missions are complex and the drones are small, they are used in mission-specific roles such as autonomous mappers, FPV-operated lead elements, and armed effectors.
Rheinmetall has unveiled the Giga-PtX project, aimed at securing a resilient synthetic fuel supply for military applications. The project envisions a decentralized network of large-scale production plants utilizing hydrogen, CO₂, and renewable energy to produce synthetic fuels. This approach addresses the vulnerability of traditional fossil fuel supply chains in wartime, enhancing combat readiness and sustainability. Cooperating with PtX specialist Ineratec, Rheinmetall’s extensive experience in hydrogen technology underpins the development of efficient, cost-effective solutions for fuel production, crucial for modern military operations. The Giga-PtX project ensures a robust and scalable fuel supply, supporting the operational needs of armed forces.
BAE Systems’ fourth Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) prototype is being showcased at Eurosatory this week. Configured with a common top plate, also known as the External Mission Equipment Package (ExMEP), the prototype showcases the vehicle’s ability to integrate capabilities and equipment packages internationally. The new turret uses Oshkosh / Rafael MCWS turret selected by the US Army for the Stryker. BAE Systems has also introduced Elbit Systems UT30 gun turret, Patria's Nemo mortar turret and Moog Reconfigurable Integrated-weapons Platform (RIwP) for the CUAS variant.
TDW is introducing an improved weapon fitted with an RF datalink, which enables remote control over a longer distance (4 km). The remote control is used to arm or disarm the mine, enabling friendly forces to move along roads that are covered by PARM weapons.