Israel Tested Two Arrow-3 Interceptors Today

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Jan 18, 2022

Arrow31812022-1021 — Two Arrow-3 interceptors, part of the Arrow Weapon System (AWS) were launched today on a test in Israel. Photo: IMOD

Today, Israel conducted a successful flight test of the Arrow Weapon System (AWS) and the Arrow 3 interceptor, which is designed to intercept ballistic missiles outside of the earth’s atmosphere. The test was performed at a test site in central Israel, and led by the system’s prime contractor Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). The test is a part of IDF’s multi-year plan and is portrayed as a deterrent measure and testament to Israel’s capability to respond to developing threats in the region. Arrow 3 conducted the first successful test in February 2018, this test was followed 17 months later with another test flight over the Pacific Ocean in 2019.[playht_player width=”100%” height=”90px” voice=”en-US-JennyNeural”]

The test was conducted at dawn on 18.01.22. As part of the test, the system’s operational radar array detected the target launched at Israel and transferred its data to the Battle Management Control (BMC), which analyzed that data and established a defense plan. Implementing this plan, two Arrow-3 interceptors were launched and successfully completed their missions.

Two Arrow-3 interceptors, part of the Arrow Weapon System (AWS) were launched today on a test in Israel. Photo: Avichai Socher

[wlm_ismember]Operational since 2017, the Arrow 3 interceptor provides a quick-reaction, upper-tier exo-atmospheric defense layer of AWS. The large kinematic envelope short time-of-flight enables a large number of interception opportunities. Flying at hypersonic speed, the interceptor maintains high divert and maneuvering capability in space, using thrust vector control and dual-pulse second stage motor for an effective hit-to-kill endgame.

A view from the Arrow 3 launch site showing the launch of the second interceptor and the smoke trail of the first launch, taking place a few minutes before. This intercept has likely tested a ‘Shoot-Look-Shoot’ scheme unique to the Arrow-3 due to its unique kinematic performance and hypersonic flight capability. Photo: IMOD

These capabilities provide a cost-effective defense against long-range missiles, early at their mid-course by using a ‘Shoot-Look-Shoot’ strategy, enabling the system to launch one interceptor at the target, and follow with another one, if the first has missed. Shorter range missiles are employed in a ‘Shoot-Shoot-Look-Shoot’ strategy, which requires more interceptors to achieve the high probability of kill for defense. Arrow 3 is highly effective against the missile’s warheads, including non-conventional ones. (a.k.a Iranian nukes, when they become a real threat.) IAI is developing the Arrow-4 interceptor to augment and replace the Arrow 2 on the lower tier. Together, the multi-tier defense achieved by the Arrow Weapon System (AWS) is tighter, with reaches near-zero leakage rate.[/wlm_ismember]

The IMOD statement did not mention whether the target was physically engaged and destroyed in space or in the atmosphere. Since Arrow-3 is designed to destroy its targets outside of the earth’s atmosphere, such an intercept could cause debris that may risk satellites in low earth orbit. That’s one of the reasons why such an intercept would be avoided.

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Subscribe to Read More about Arrow 3 and AWS

[/wlm_nonmember]According to Moshe Patel, IMDO Director, the challenging test was part of the continued enhancement and upgrading of the Arrow Weapon System and the Arrow 3 interceptor, as part of Israel’s multi-tier missile defense capabilities against emerging threats in the region. “Since the successful series of tests in Alaska in 2019, we have significantly expanded the Arrow Weapon System’s capabilities,” Patel added.

“This test was designed to challenge every element of the Arrow Weapon System, and it performed beautifully. Data collected from this test guide future development of the AWS,” said MDA Director Vice Adm. Jon Hill. “MDA remains committed to assisting the Government of Israel in upgrading its missile defense capability against current and emerging threats.”[playht_listen_button]

According to Boaz Levy, President & CEO of IAI, the system was tested against ‘future threats’, in a challenging scenario. The flight test gathered essential information that will be used by the defense establishment and the company’s engineers for the development of future technologies.

Hungary to Upgrade its Leased Gripen Fleet

By

Tamir Eshel

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Jan 12, 2022

Gripen-C1021 — Hungary operates 14 Gripen C/D fighter jets leased from Sweden. Photo: Saab

Hungary will soon operate improved Gripen fighter jets similar to those used by the Swedish Air Force, following the modernization of its leased aircraft to the latest version MS20 Block 2 version. This upgrade brings several improvements in sensors, weapons, and avionics. The Swedish Air Force first introduced this upgrade in 2016.

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The radar is upgraded to the PS-05/A Mk 4 version, extending the target acquisition range, particularly at low altitudes. This allows better detection capability of small air-to-air targets and improved clutter suppression. It also enhances the performance of air-to-ground synthetic aperture radar (SAR) mode. The new version provides growth potential for further developments in the air-to-air and air-to-ground modes, as SAAB has been working on AESA technology for this radar.

The MS20 Block 2 upgrade for the HunAF Gripen fleet also enhances the communication capabilities by enhancing Link16 (NATO Datalink) functionality and updating voice communication to the latest NATO secure communication standard. Ability to identify coalition aircraft will also be improved by introducing the latest Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) NATO Mode 5.

Hungary operates 14 Gripen C/D fighter jets leased from Sweden. Photo: Saab

Saab announced today that the Hungarian Government Commissioner Office responsible for defense development and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) had completed the negotiations for the MS20 Block 2 capability upgrade to the Hungarian fleet of Gripen fighter aircraft.

The upgrade will allow Hungary to choose from a wider selection of weapons to fit their Gripens: IRIS-T – infrared Within Visual Range (WVR) Air to Air missile and Meteor – advanced, beyond visual range radar-guided missile (BVRAAM), GBU-49 – dual-mode (GPS/SAL) air to ground laser-guided bombs and GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs, to name just a few.

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After Sweden and the Czech Republic, Hungary was the third nation to start operating Gripen C/D. The first Gripen lease contract was signed between the Swedish Defence Material Administration (FMV) and the Hungarian Ministry of Defence in February 2003 to supply 14 Gripen C/D fighters (12 single-seater and two two-seater aircraft). Hungary extended the lease in 2012 with a ten-year contract and is now extending it until 2026. The extension required the Swedish Defense Material Command (FMV) to upgrade the HunAF Gripens to the MS20 version, clearing to add more flight hours (from 16000 to 20,000).

North Korea Conducts a Successful Tests of a Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV)

By

Tamir Eshel

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Jan 12, 2022

missile-launch — North Korean HS-12 missile launched with a HGV as a warhead, on January 5, 2022. Another test with the same HGV was conducted a week later, on 11 January from the same place.

A week after the second test of a missile with a hypersonic warhead, North Korea conducted another test flight of such a missile. According to the flight map released by the Koreans, the missile was launched into a ballistic trajectory. According to missile expert Tal Inbar, upon release from the missile body, the hypervelocity glide vehicle (HGV) pulled up (bounced) and deviated sideways from the ballistic path, demonstrating maneuvering at the hypersonic speed. North Korean authorities stated the missile precisely hit a target some 1,000km (621 miles) away.

Screen from KJU observation vehicle – THIS one was used for real time rendering of the missile’s trajectory. pic.twitter.com/eICGpYcotz

— Tal Inbar (@inbarspace) January 11, 2022

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Three days later, on 14 January afternoon, North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan. The missiles landed about 430 km and reached an apogee of around 36 km. This launch seems to be unrelated to the hypersonic testing but emphasizes the North Korean muscle-flexing campaign.

This was the third reported test of a hypersonic glide vehicle reported by North Korea. South Korea and Japan both detected this launch, saying a missile had been fired from North Korea towards the sea of Japan. The launch was detected around 7:27 a.m. local time (22:27 GMT Monday) from North Korea’s Jagang Province toward the ocean off its east coast, the same location as last week’s test.

North Korean Hwasong 12 missile with HGV launched on 11 January 2022.

“We assess that this is more advanced than the missile North Korea fired on Jan. 5, though South Korean and U.S. intelligence authorities are conducting detailed analysis,” the South Korean joint chiefs of staff (JCS) statement said. According to the JCS statement, the North Korean missile traveled more than 700km (435 miles) to a maximum altitude of 60km (37 miles), and has reached a top speed of Mach 10. Hypersonic missiles fly at least five times the speed of sound, at relatively low trajectories, making them harder to detect and intercept by conventional air and missile defenses. The difference between the 700 km range reported by the South and 1,000 km, claimed by the north is probably the flight segment of the test where the HGV flew at relatively low altitude and in conditions impairing its detection by radar. Pyongyang said this segment was approximately 240 km long and the HGV performed at least two course changes in this phase of the flight, bringing it to impact on the target.

Hwasong 8 missile and its HGV were first displayed in Pyongyang during the Self Defense exhibition in October 2021. The HGV used on the 5 and 11 January 2022 launch are of a different design.

High res photos are coming in slowly, but with available images we could already be sure that the 11 Jan and 5 Jan 2022 HGVs are of the same design, which is different from the HGV design of Hwasong-8. https://t.co/7L7jpcvue6 pic.twitter.com/zcoaPzwQTl

— Taepodong (@stoa1984) January 12, 2022

With this successful test series North Korea joins Russia, and China which both have advanced and, to some level, deployed such weapons. The United States is still in the development phase, initial launches of HGVs were done but actual weapon fielding could take years.

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Multi-Drones Provide Situational Air Picture for Joint Multi-Domain Ops

By

Tamir Eshel

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Jan 11, 2022

ASI_LegionPod_1021 — Avenger UAS carrying a Legion Pod IRST21 on a test flight. Photo: GA-ASI

General Atomics has recently conducted a flight demonstration of two Avenger unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), each equipped with Lockheed Martin’s Legion Pod IRST21, an Infra-Red Search & Track pod designed to detect aerial targets at long range, without using radar.

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The information obtained by the pods was processed on board with advanced fusion software that blended the sensor data from both pods, and the Avengers streamed it to the ground station in real-time, delivering a situational air picture at the command center. “The Avenger with Legion Pod demonstrated how collaborative autonomous platforms with advanced sensing can deliver persistent, shared air domain awareness.” GA-ASI Senior Director of Advanced Programs Michael Atwood explained.

“This is the first time IRST systems on multiple autonomous aircraft have delivered merged air threat data to users on the ground,” Scott Roberson, director of Sensors and Global Sustainment Advanced Programs at Lockheed Martin, added. Lockheed Martin designed the Legion Pod to passively detect and track targets for tactical fighter pilots in radar-denied environments. This capability provides the data necessary to enable unmanned vehicles to track and engage hostile airborne targets without human intervention.

Avenger UAS carrying a Legion Pod IRST21 on a test flight. Photo: GA-ASI

The fusion technology was previously tested in F-15Cs equipped with Legion Pods and datalinks deployed to the Northern Edge operational exercise in 2021, where the pods demonstrated their ability to detect and track targets of interest at long ranges autonomously. The Avenger autonomy flight test series began in December 2020 to demonstrate next-generation air-to-air applications of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. The integration of the pod and the unmanned platform enables the drone to maneuver for optimized target engagement autonomously.

This capability brings drones one step closer to having autonomous systems that support manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) in joint all-domain operations. Carried on F-15Cs, Legion Pods have already demonstrated passive cueing of targets for AIM-120 and AIM-9X missile tests.

General Atomics MQ-20 Avengers N901PC & N903PC “SKYBORG01 & 03” arriving into El Mirage Field this afternoon, outfitted with Lockheed Martin Legion Pods. (October 26th, 2021). pic.twitter.com/Cqg5jXUVTR

— Aircraft Spots (@AircraftSpots) October 27, 2021

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The sensor’s Open Mission System (OMS) design readily supports Joint All Domain Operations (JADC2) requirements for alternative datalink architectures. The OMS allows for rapid integration, making the technology transportable among aircraft platforms and reducing the timeline and complexity to integrate on new platforms. The fusion engine’s ability to take in multiple sensor sources makes it a central node that connects multiple Legion Pods on manned and unmanned platforms. Lockheed Martin has plans to test the Legion Pod with datalink capability among F-16s and F-15-to-F-16 sensor fusion.

General Atomics is one of two companies selected to develop an unmanned sensor platform for AFRL’s OBSS program. Photo: GA-ASI

Before entering the OBSS project, GA-ASI introduced the Defender at the Air Force Association Meeting in Washington DC (September 2021). It is a jet-powered escort UAS that can be equipped with sensors and air-to-air weapons, ready to escort and defend high-value aircraft, and stay ready on missions for days at a time. Photo: GA-ASI

Apart from this company-funded activity, GA-ASI is also involved in an Air Force demonstration program known as ‘Off-Board Sensing Stations’ (OBSS). This program calls for developing an unmanned platform that will operate alongside current or future fighters, provide sensor support, and perform as a ‘weapon bay’ under the command of the, thus keeping the manned aircraft in a quarterback position far from danger. Operating far forward and carrying IRST sensors, such OBSS drones could deliver situational pictures and provide passive cueing for long-range missiles launched from stand-off range. This capability will enable 5GEN and 4GEN fighters to engage low-observable (stealth) targets and launch missiles without activating their radars, thus denying the enemy any early warning.

General Atomics is one of two contractors developing such platforms; the other is Kratos Defense. In November 2021, both companies were awarded a $17.8 million contract from the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to design an OBSS aircraft. By year’s end, AFRL expects to select one of the designs and invest an additional $30 million to build and fly the new drone by 2024.

Drones Weaponised with a Smart Shooter – Killers from Above

By

Tamir Eshel

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Jan 10, 2022

SMASH-Dragon1021 — SMASH Dragon comprise a light weight robotic mount and the weapon mounted SMASH Dragon sight. Photo: Smart Shooter

Today, fire control systems expert SMART-SHOOTER introduced the SMASH Dragon application for armed drones. The new system employs an advanced remotely controlled robotic weapon payload on different drones or unmanned aerial platforms. The system completed live firing tests and is currently under advanced stages of development.

[playht_player width=”100%” height=”90px” voice=”en-US-JennyNeural”]While drones are highly versatile weaponized platforms when deploying precision-guided weapons, mounting direct firing weapons is challenging due to stability issues. So far, using weapon stations designed for ground platforms proved ineffective mainly due to the weight and delayed control loop limiting fire accuracy even at short range.

The remotely operated SMASH Dragon features Smartshooter’s proprietary target acquisition and tracking algorithms that implement computer vision to acquire the operator’s target. Then, the fire control system takes over and releases the shot when the target is in sight, thus ensuring precise hits even in complex situations.

SMASH Dragon comprises a lightweight robotic mount and the weapon-mounted SMASH Dragon sight. Photo: Smart Shooter

The system can mount various assault weapons and sniper rifles, 40mm grenade launchers, and other weapons. Despite the platform’s instability, the robotic system aims and fires the gun with high precision.

[playht_listen_button]Designed as a lightweight mount, SMASH Dragon integrates a unique stabilization concept embedded with the SMASH technology to enable the weapon to release an accurate shot with high hit probability against static and moving targets while flying. The compact, lightweight system allows long mission endurance. SMASH Dragon is the latest spinoff from Smart Shooter’s technology, implemented in unmanned systems. Other applications included using SMASH derivatives in counter-drone (C-UAV) platforms and lightweight remotely operated weapon stations for light combat vehicles, Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV), and dismounted uses.

UAE to Equip its A330 Tankers with Israeli DIRCM Systems

By

Tamir Eshel

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Jan 3, 2022

Elbit Systems has received an order from the UAE to supply J-MUSIC Directed Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) systems to protect the country’s Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) fleet. The UAE acquired three such aircraft from Airbus in 2013 and has recently ordered an additional two to be delivered in 2024. As part of the deal with Airbus, the existing aircraft will also be upgraded to the same configuration as the new MRTTs. The order announced by Elbit Systems is likely a part of this plan.

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J-MUSIC is Part of Elbit Systems’ aircraft self-protection capabilities. The system comprises missile warning sensors and a directional laser-emitter that point to the incoming threats and transmits powerful optical signals that disrupt the missile seekers, thus deflecting them from the protected aircraft. The system operates automatically and autonomously – no crew involvement is needed during an engagement.

The dual-band laser generating the countermeasures is placed in a hyper-hemispherical dome for maximum coverage. Each band is independently programmable, and the entire system is open to accept user-defined jamming codes to address user-specific requirements and threats. The missile warning system can also operate with other countermeasures against radar-guided missiles. The open architecture solution can also integrate other Missile Warning Systems (MWS) to meet customer requirements.

MMF Aircrew inspects the new self-protection systems on their A330 MRTT. Photo: NSPA

The J-MUSIC fiber-laser DIRCM will be part of the self-protection suite protecting the german A400M Atlas transport aircraft. Photo: Elbit Systems

Elbit Systems DIRCM and Electronic Warfare (EW) self-protection systems have accumulated more than 350,000 operational flight hours to date and are installed onboard more than 25 types of aircraft.

Based on an open architecture design J-MUSIC supports a broad range of aircraft types, in both single and multi-turret configurations, including Germany’s A400 aircraft and CH-53 helicopters, NATO’s MRTT A330 fleet, Portugal’s KC390 aircraft, all of Israel’s commercial aircraft airliners’ fleets and Heads of State and VIP customers.

The UAE plans to upgrade its existing three A-330 MRTT to the latest configuration by 2024. Photo: Airbus

The integration on the A330 MRTT was done by Elbit Systems, Airbus and NATO’s joint procurement organization (OCCAR), and NATO Support Agency (NSPA) as part of the fielding of the aircraft with NATO’s Multinational tanker Fleet (MMF). During these flight tests, the J-Music DIRCM system demonstrated flawless functionality. It showed the ability to defeat multiple threat types simulated at the A330 MRTT aircraft while conducting a series of flight maneuvers. The integration flight tests also established that the J-Music DIRCM system could handle simultaneous threat scenarios and overcome head-on, tail-on, and side-on threats, from several ranges and different altitudes. The MMF is expected to announce initial operational capability this month and reach its total capacity of nine aircraft by 2024, supporting 1,200 flight hours per year. The aircraft carries 111 tons of fuel and can deliver a maximum flow rate of 2,200 liters per minute with boom, hose, and drogue mechanisms supporting all NATO aircraft, including F-16, F-35, C-17, Typhoon, Gripen, and Tornado.

The MRTT has gained much appreciation among users worldwide, 49 aircraft have already been delivered and 19 are on order. The aircraft is operated by the Air Forces of Australia, Singapore, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and France. In the UK, 14 aircraft are leased by Air Tanker Services, serving the training and operational activity of the Royal Air Force. Spain has ordered three and Egypt has requested to buy two planes recently. India and the USA are also potential customers.

The first of nine Airbus A330 MRTTs operating with the Nato MFF at Eindhoven in the Netherlands. Photo: Airbus

Israel to Get the First of 12 New CH-53K Helicopters By 2026

By

Tamir Eshel

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Dec 31, 2021

CH53K1 — Israel places order worth 2 billion $ for 12 CH53K Helicopters

Israel has signed an order for more than two billion $ for the purchase of 12 CH-53K helicopters, with an option to purchase six more.

The first helicopters will arrive in Israel by 2026 and will replace the old CH-53D Yasur helicopters, that are planned for decommissioning in 2025.

The CH-53 Sea Stallion was developed by Sikorsky in the USA in the early 1960s. The CH-53A entered service with the Marine Corps in 1966. It was also adapted for special missions as the MH-53 Pave-Low, and served with the US Air Force combat rescue operations during the Vietnam War, where it was known as the ‘Jolly Green Giant’. These special models have been adapted to fly at night and in adverse weather. Over the years, the helicopters were improved with more powerful engines enabling increased carrying capacity. Some were also modified by the US Navy for minesweeping operations.

Israel received the first helicopters of this type in 1969, these were D Models. About 35 were deployed over half a century. IAF CH-53 helicopters are known as ‘Yasur’, they have undergone several phases of mid-life extensions and improvements, the most recent extended their service life through 2025

For their replacement, the Air Force considered two options – the CH-53K helicopter, made by Sikorsky, now part of Lockheed Martin, which succeeds the CH-53E in the service of the US Marine Corps, or the CH-47F Chinook made by Boeing, which was selected by the US Army and some NATO countries.

As mentioned, Israel preferred the CH-53K helicopter. The Knesset receives a brand new helicopter, which is similar in appearance to its predecessor, but is a leap forward in operational capabilities – it is the most powerful helicopter in the world, built for operation in a maritime, desert, and the mountainous environment – factors that often limit the operational capabilities of other aircraft.

The helicopter is powered by three T408 jet engines that drive the 24-meter 7-blade rotor, supporting a maximum take-off weight of about 40 tons. The helicopter can carry a full payload of up to 16.3 tons, including internal and external loads hanging from three hardpoints. Its flight range is three times the range of previous models. It can fly at a speed of about 300 km/h, and climb to an altitude of about 18,000 feet. On an operational flight, it can carry 12 tons of cargo to a radius of 200 km. That is twice over the previous model. For example, it can carry a JLTV armored vehicle weighing more than 10 tons on its sling, with an infantry platoon seated in the cabin. To extend the operating range it is equipped with a refueling probe.

Provided with advanced flight instruments and night vision, aircrews enjoy improved flying capability in degraded vision conditions, which allow for safe landing under brownout conditions, this is the thick dust clouds that the helicopter produces when flying near the ground. Fly By Wire and sophisticated automation help improve the flying and maneuvering capability, and in the future, will allow implementation of autonomous flying capabilities in these helicopters. According to the manufacturer, the CH-53K was designed to allow rapid conversion of maintenance crews who are already experienced with legacy CH-53 helicopters.

Israel has an Urgent Need for Aerial Tankers

By

Tamir Eshel

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Dec 21, 2021

Israel requests Washington for urgent delivery of two KC-46A aerial tankers, to bolster its capability of operations at long ranges. While the IAF already has several aerial tankers based on the Boeing 707, they are too old and inefficient to support a full-scale operational campaign of the size and complexity the IAF requires. This episode discusses the options Israel has to support this capability.

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The Final U.S. Withdrawal From Iraq

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Tamir Eshel

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Dec 8, 2021

What would happen to Iraq as US forces complete their withdrawal from the country? Will Shi’ite-oriented Baghdad be able to control the country’s Sunni-dominated regions? What will be the role of Iran and how this will affect the region? Our podcast provides some room for thoughts and poses questions.

JCPOA – Bluffing the Way to an Agreement

By

Tamir Eshel

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Nov 30, 2021

JCPOA3 — P+4 JCPOA gathering in Vienna, April 2021

Gathering in Vienna to discuss a renewed agreement, all sides seem to ignore the facts. Iran is galloping to achieve the nuclear threshold. Unless a credible threat is put on the table, continued sanctions will only slow the process. Israel should not be left alone to deal with what seems to be the most serious threat to the stability of the region, and an existential threat to the Jewish state.

Russian Military Aircraft Making International Debuts at Dubai 2021

By

Tamir Eshel

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Nov 13, 2021

Mi-28NE1021 — Making its international debut at Dubai Airshow 2021 Mi-28NE 'Night Hunter' performed aerobatics at the minimum allowed altitude and speeds, demonstrating its combat capability and survivability. Manoeuvres included turns, nose diving, pitch-up, rearward flight, hovering and climb with rotation. Photo: Russian Helicopters

Russia is leading the way bringing military aircraft that are making their debut at the Dubai Airshow. Unlike the Paris Air Show or Farnborough, Dubai provides a stage for aircraft companies from east and west, including China and Russia. Among the Russian aircraft making their debut here in Dubai is Sukhoi with a model of Checkmate, and Russian Helicopters with Mi-28NE, KA-52, and Mi-226T.

Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate made its international debut (still as a model) at Dubai Airshow 2021

The new light tactical fighter Su-75 was unveiled at the MAKS 2021 airshow in Moscow earlier this year. The fighter jet introduces an affordable, lightweight and advanced fighter jet making 21st-century aerospace technology available to operators that neither have access, nor can afford the first line 5th or 6th generation aircraft such as the F-35, J-20, or Su-57. “Checkmate has attracted great interest abroad, the Emirates is an excellent platform for presenting the aircraft to a wide range of potential partners.” Rostec official said.

Su-75 Checkmate offers an outstanding range, speed, and weight-lifting capacity for its class, as well as unique avionic characteristics, low visibility, and the ability to counter both modern and advanced air defense systems. The aircraft will be shown abroad for the first time at the international Dubai Airshow 2021. To further promote interest in the aircraft Rostec has revealed a perfume line dedicated to the fifth-generation fighter. A new video aired as part of the international debut depicts some of the unique characteristics of the new jet fighter. According to the philosophy of the Russian fighter product line, Checkmate is the knight chess piece positioned on a geopolitical chessboard: a very light and valuable combat unit capable of deciding the outcome of the game.

Mi-28NE will be on show in the static and dynamic flight display at Dubai Airshow 2021.

Airshow 2021 provides Russian Helicopters’ Mi-28NE attack helicopter. This export modification of the “Night Hunter” will be presented both at the static exposition and in the flight program of the Dubai Airshow 2021. Making its international debut at Dubai Airshow 2021 Mi-28NE ‘Night Hunter’ performed aerobatics at the minimum allowed altitude and speeds, demonstrating its combat capability and survivability. Maneuvers included turns, nose-diving, pitch-up, rearward flight, hovering, and climb with rotation.

Mi-28NE “Night Hunter” is designed for reconnaissance and attack missions. It is capable of defeating main battle tanks and armored vehicles, as well as infantry and low-speed air targets. The helicopter is capable of operating day and night and under adverse weather conditions. It is designed to survive harsh battle conditions and, due to its small visual signature robustness and partly armored fuselage, can resist significant battle damage. The powerful engine and unique rotor design enable the Night Hunter to perform complex aerobatics, which will be demonstrated during the live display. The Mi-28NE was shown for the first time, at the Moscow Air Show in 2015. In 2016 the first export deliveries of the helicopter were made.

KA-52 will also participate in the Dubai Airshow 2021. Photo: Russian Helicopters

Another modern Russian attack helicopter Ka-52 Alligator also took part in the Dubai Airshow for the first time. The Ka-52 Alligator reconnaissance and attack helicopter will also be making a debut in Dubai. This rotorcraft was first deployed by the Russian Navy and is now operated by the Egyptian Navy. The Ka-52 “Alligator” also maintains a low visual and acoustic signature. To further reduce vulnerability it is equipped with an integral electronic protection system and active countermeasures. The unique coaxial rotor is highly suitable for operations on landing decks and below deck hangars of ships, where space is tight and landing requires quick and precise maneuvering provided by this unique rotor system.

The Ka-226T Climber is an upgraded version of the Kamov Ka-226. Photo: Rostec/Russian Helicopters

Another platform using the coaxial rotor design on display in Dubai is the Ka-226T. This helicopter is a modernized version of the Ka-226, that has a refined design with improved aerodynamics. The fuselage is made using modern lightweight materials. Ka-226T has received a new rotor hub, blades, and main gearbox, as well as a crashworthy impact-resistant fuel system, which meets increased safety requirements. This upgraded helicopter was first presented at the international aerospace show MAKS-2021, is making its international premiere in Dubai Airshow 2021. “The modernized Ka-226T is the first helicopter in Russia to be manufactured according to digital design documentation. This initiative made it possible to significantly reduce the time for building the machine and to start flight tests in a short time. For its special capability of operations at high altitude, this helicopter won the name “Climber”.

Mi-171A2 differs from the previous modifications by more powerful and efficient engines, main rotor with composite blades of improved aerodynamics, X-shaped tail rotor, fundamentally new avionics equipment, as well as an improved automatic control system. Photo: Russian Helicopters

Dubai Airshow 2021 is also to become a platform for the heavy multipurpose Mi-171A2 debut in the Middle East. The aircraft presented at the exhibition will be handed over to the first operator of Mi-171A2 from UAE at the end of the air show. Mi-171A2 differs from the previous modifications by more powerful and efficient engines, main rotor with composite blades of improved aerodynamics, X-shaped tail rotor, fundamentally new avionics equipment, as well as an improved automatic control system.

Innotech 2021

By

Tamir Eshel

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Oct 31, 2021

INNOTECH 2021 – Israel’s International Cyber, Homeland Security Technologies, and Innovation event will take place on 17-18 November 2021 in Tel Aviv Israel. The in-person, two-day event includes an exhibition with national pavilions and more than 150 companies, accompanied by, an outstanding conference where Brig. Gen. (res.) Dr. Danny Gold, Head, DDR&D (MAFAT), the R&D directorate of the Israel Ministry of Defense will deliver the keynote address, followed by thought-provoking panel discussions. Defense-Update is proud to be a Media Partner of Innotech 2021. We will provide on-site coverage of the event on Defense-Update and Defense-Brief, our new Podcast series.

Due to the growing cyber and HLS challenges – such as critical infrastructures, municipal cyber and intelligence challenges, smart cities, smart transportation, cloud security, communications, terrorist attacks, public security threats, as well as criminal actions and natural disasters – municipalities, districts, and states have
been looking for innovative and ground-breaking technological solutions.

The COVID-19 pandemic has only emphasized the importance of technological innovation in the development of a rapid response to every evolving crisis and substantially accelerated digital processes.

At iHLS INNOTECH you will be able to showcase your advanced technologies, meet the startups operating in this technological arena, take a firsthand look at the innovative technologies currently being developed, and meet your own business arena: industry leaders, decision-makers, experts, entrepreneurs, customers, and partners.

iHLS INNOTECH 2021 provides the perfect forum for presenting the latest technological innovations in the field, effectively meeting the needs of the sector as a whole and addressing current threats.

The thousands of guests, hundreds of companies, and startups will get a close look at the Israeli ecosystem of cyber and HLS technologies.

Iran Intensifies Drone Attacks Throughout the Middle East

By

Tamir Eshel

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Oct 29, 2021

Iran is intensifying drone attacks in the region, directed against rival forces including the US, Saudi, and Emiratis as well as at civilian ships in the Gulf. Most targets are still unprotected and suffer significant damage and sometimes casualties under such attacks. Aware of the risk of UAS and loitering weapons for many years, Israel has developed effective countermeasures which are now being considered by its allies in the region.

US Army Deploys the Iron Dome to Guam

By

Tamir Eshel

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Oct 28, 2021

The US Army is deploying one of the new Iron Dome batteries to Guam, to be tested as part of the Island’s defense against cruise missiles. This deployment is far away from the hot spots in Syria and Iraq, where US forces suffer repeated attacks and could use Iron Dome’s combat-proven capabilities to defeat missiles and drone attacks.

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Defense-UpdateMilitary Technology & Defense News

Defense-UpdateMilitary Technology & Defense News

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