The Indian Air Force has concluded the technical assessment of six fighter aircraft proposed for the Medium MultiRole Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) program, paving the way for the Ministry of Defense to decide on the Air Force’s US$10 billion (Rs 42,000 crore) acquisition of 126 new fighters plus options for additional 63. The six proposals considered by the Indians included the Typhoon, proposed by the European Eurofighter consortium, the French Rafale from Dassault, the Russian MiG-35 from United Aircraft Corporation subsidiary RSK-MiG, the Gripen E/F, proposed by the Swedish Saab group; Two proposals were submitted by U.S. companies – Boeing offered the Super Hornet F/A-18 E/F and Lockheed Martin proposed the F-16 E/F Fighting Falcon. The Air Force report provides a technical assessment of the six candidates.
Dassault Rafale F-3 Omnirole Fighter, loaded with an air-to-air and air-to-ground weapon mix. Photo: Dassault. Photo: Dassault
The commercial proposals, including industrial cooperation and local participation will be evaluated by the MOD beginning this week. According to unconfirmed media reports, the Indians, seeking a modern fighter, have rated both European fighters – the Rafale and Typhoon as the most preferred types and both are shortlisted for the next phase with the Boeing Super Hornet considered a ‘marginal option’. The Swedish Gripen was determined to be redundant to India’s indigenous Teja; both the Russian MiG-35 and the U.S. F-16E/F are based on obsolete platforms (both are based on 40 year old platform designs) and hence are not conforming with the program’s primary directive.
However, the weight of the technical parameters in the final evaluation is not exclusive and determinant, since final decisions on the MMRCA will be based on the economic and political interests. New Delhi’s aim to tighten its relations with Europe is clear, and such deals are likely, since India has signed significant orders with Franch and the U.K. in the past.
However, Russia still has the inroad to India’s military and politics and, therefore, despite its financial alleged insufficient engine lifespan shortcoming, “the MiG-35 is likely to remain in the picture until the end” according to Sergei Kornyev, the department head of Russia’s Air Force special equipment and services at a press conference in Farnborough last month. Facing serious consequences of the planned reduction of 90 Typhoons destined for the RAF and Italian Air Force, Eurofighter is hopeful that winning the MMRCA program could compensate for these production losses and boost the program research and development for the advanced, multirole Tranch 3 phase.
For Dassault, being shortlisted by the Indian could drive Brazil to finally announce its FX-2 decision in favor of the French fighter. Winning both program could transform the Rafale from a lame duck into the leading fighter in the export market, offering the French, Indian and Brazilian aerospace industries attractive prospects for the future.
The final decision on the Indian MMRCA fighter of choice could be taken around 2011-2012. Indian Air Force officials are hopeful that Initial deliveries could be expedited and arrive in India two years after the contract award.
In addition to the ongoing MMRCA selection, India defense ministry has announced plans to increase India’s orders for Su-30MKI fighters by 42 aircraft, to be delivered over four years beginning 2014. The $4.3 billion deal will increase the number of aircraft to be produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) to 200, setting India’s inventory of Su-30MKI fighters at at 250. India is also cooperating with Russia on the development of the next generation T-50 (PAK-FA) fifth generation fighter developed by Sukhoi. The program, valued at about US$8 billion is partly financed by New Delhi.
Elbit Systems is expanding its family of man portable unmanned ground systems with the introduction of two new models. During a recent exhibition the company displayed the new robots, in addition to a wide range of advanced land and C4I solutions. The new members of the VIPeR family of intelligent and portable robots include the Mini-VIPeR and Maxi-VIPeR, which join the VIPeR robot, already operational in the Israel Defense Forces under the Hebrew name “Pazit.”
All VIPeRs are designed for portability and high mobility; the robots are configurable for multiple types of missions by add-on sensors, modules and payloads, tailored to specific tasks. The Viper is controlled by a single operator, and is designed to negotiate obstacles typical of an urban environment, such as climbing stairs and rubbles, when performing surveillance, reconnaissance and support troops in urban warfare missions.
The VIPeR vehicle uses the “Galileo Wheel”, a patented wheel that can be transformed on the move into a triangular track, developed by Galileo Mobility Instruments ltd. This unique automotive system enables the robot to climb stairs, negotiate difficult terrain, move over barricades, dense vegetation and other obstacles.
The Mini-VIPeR and Maxi VIPeR robots use a more common track system. While the two new robots bear some resemblance to the Beagle, developed by Elbit Systems of America, a closer look at the two new robots reveal more similarities to the locally designed VIPeR. The larger version uses a wide, heavy duty track system, adapted from the VIPeR for outdoor operation over rugged terrain. The smaller robot uses a narrow track, more suitable for indoor operation.
Both have body mounted sensors, flat top and bottom surfaces, for the mounting of mission payloads. The Mini-VIPeR is a light-weight, one-person portable system (weighing approximately 3.5 kg), equipped with advanced sensors that allow full operation in adverse terrain. Thrown into a dark tunnel or tossed through a window, into a room, the mini-Viper allows warfighters to survey structures before entering. The larger, yet compact Maxi-VIPeR robot is designed to carry sensors and tele-operated manipulator arms, for the handling of unexploded devices and other hazardous materials including radioactive materials.
It has been widely established by counter-terror agencies around the world, that terror groups remain highly interested in such “dirty playthings” writes Defense-Update.com analyst David Eshel in today’s post. Al Qaeda’s senior leadership has publicly expressed a desire to acquire some weapons of mass destruction, including radiological weapons, with which to attack western states. Since September 11, U.S. officials have recovered many documents detailing al Qaeda’s pursuit of such weapons.
Just two weeks ago, Adnan el-Shukrijumah, 35, an American citizen, high on the FBI’s most-wanted list, was named as an accomplice in the New York subway bomb plot with Najibullah Zazi, an 25 year Afghan-born al Qaeda weapons expert, residing in Colorado. He was arrested in 2009, charged with conspiracy to commit murder with weapons of mass destruction. Meanwhile, Shukrijumah a trained nuclear technician, is still a fugitive, hunted by the US Intelligence agencies offering $5 million for for information leading directly to the capture. He was allegedly tasked by al Qaeda with carrying off a so-called “American Hiroshima”, having sought radioactive material from a university in Ontario, Canada. News reports alleged that this was an attempt to construct a “dirty bomb”.
Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) is developing a new Kinetic Energy Net (KEN) armor concept for military rotorcraft and aircraft, which could also find application in future combat vehicles. In April 2010 the company has won a US$1.5 Million from the U.S. Army Applied Aviation Technology Directorate to continue continue development of the KEN armor design.
KEN is a modular, lightweight composite armor system offering high protection weight levels lighter than current aircraft armor. One of the advantages of KEN is its integration into the aircraft structure, instead of attaching plates to the fuselage. By applying advanced ballistic materials and experimental strike faces, current KEN applications save about 13 percent of weight, compared to advanced ceramic and composite armor designs. Lockheed Martin’s goal is to achieve further weight reduction up to 40 percent in the next phase of development, without losing protective capability.
The company’s Missiles and Fire Control division also develops the TekShield – a unique ceramic design claimed to be superior and lighter than legacy ceramic armor. TekShield provides a balanced protection from blast and ballistic threats, including high speed projectiles and fragments. This new armor technology is scalable to meet specific threats, from small caliber rifles and mid-range cannons to IEDs and other explosive devices.
Ceradyne [Nasdaq: CRDN] has signed a licensing agreement with Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] for the development and production of the TekShiled armor material developed by Lockheed Martin. TekShield is based on a unique ceramic design claimed to be superior and lighter than legacy ceramic armor.
TekShield provides a balanced vehicle protection from blast and ballistic threats, including multiple hits of high speed projectiles and fragments. The TekShield module combines a ceramic macro-composite material encased in shock-absorbing polymers with a metallic strike face and spall plate. According to Lockheed Martin Missile and Fire Control division, where the new armor was developed, the production of TekShield should be considerably cheaper than contemporary ceramic armor modules. The new armor technology is scalable to meet specific threats, from multiple hits by high velocity small caliber rifles and mid-range cannons to IEDs and other explosive devices. The new material weighs about half of a comparable steel armor.
According to Reggie Grant, director for Advanced Programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, the new TekShield has been tested against a variety of ballistic threats, from hand grenades to bomb blasts. “This level of vehicle protection has never been delivered in such a lightweight design” said Grant. TekShield can be configured as opaque, transparent and semi-reactive applications.
Denying terrorists access to radiological materials that can be used in a dirty bomb attack – one that could bring western economy to a standstill and render areas uninhabitable for decades – is still a major security challenge.
Should a dirty bomb or multiple dirty bombs be detonated in any major city, port complex, airport or train station, the result could be considerable loss of life with widespread panic. Billions of dollars would have to be spent in clean-up and medical care, not to mention extended interruptions in seamless commerce and everyday life.
It has been widely established by counter-terror agencies around the world, that terror groups remain highly interested in such “dirty playthings”. Al Qaeda’s senior leadership has publicly expressed a desire to acquire some weapons of mass destruction, including radiological weapons, with which to attack western states. Since September 11, U.S. officials have recovered many documents detailing al Qaeda’s pursuit of such weapons.
In 2006, Abu Hamza al-Muhajir, then the leader of al Qaeda in Iraq, called for nuclear scientists and explosive experts to help his organization in making “simple” biological and radioactive weapons. That same year, British citizen Dhiren Barot (aka known as Bilal, Abu Musa al-Hindi, Abu Eissa al-Hindi, and Issa al-Britani), pleaded guilty, conspiring to detonate a radioactive “dirty bomb”. Among others, he admitted planning to target underground parking garages in the U.K. and U.S. institutions such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, the New York Stock Exchange, and offices belonging to Citigroup and Prudential Financial.
Now, just two weeks ago, Adnan el-Shukrijumah, 35, an American citizen, high on the FBI’s most-wanted list, was named as an accomplice in the New York subway bomb plot with Najibullah Zazi, an 25 year Afghan-born al Qaeda weapons expert, residing in Colorado. He was arrested in 2009, charged with conspiracy to commit murder with weapons of mass destruction. Meanwhile, Shukrijumah a trained nuclear technician, is still a fugitive, hunted by the US Intelligence agencies offering $5 million for for information leading directly to the capture. He was allegedly tasked by al Qaeda with carrying off a so-called “American Hiroshima”, having sought radioactive material from a university in Ontario, Canada. News reports alleged that this was an attempt to construct a “dirty bomb”.
An exclusive focus on “loose nukes”, which US internal security agencies are pursuing, could mean missing the threat that western nations are facing in their own backyard: the dirty bomb, which is far easier to assemble from ingredients that are widely available commercially in any modern country. Highly dispersible radiological materials like cesium-137 or cobalt-40 are used every day in medical procedures at hospitals and in universities. These components of modern medicine remain usually underprotected.
Although many responsible hospitals are eager to upgrade their security for these radiological elements, they demand government financial assistance to do so, which in times of recess, unfortunately remains under low priority budget allocation.
Meanwhile, the clock is already ticking loudly! Entry to most hospital laboratories and depots is relatively easy for those elements seeking what they are looking for. Radiology departments usually control access, but a basic tool kit can be used to break into a blood irradiator and seize a substantial amount of radiological material. Once combined with a simple explosive device, a crude radiological weapon is right around the corner.
Despite those chilling facts, the US White House has slashed the domestic radiological protection budget over the past few years. Other nations are doing the same. Repeated warnings by counter terror agencies are being ignored, in face of other national priorities, which include funding for the security of “loose nuke” programs, which at least so far, have little interest to “dirty bomb” terrorists. With such a device maybe underway in one of the many million containers, heading toward a major port in a western country, time might be running out already. A serious wake-up call is imperative to avert disaster from happening.
The Russian Defense Ministry is going to set up a joint assembly line with the Italian automaker Iveco to produce LMV M65 tactical vehicles in Russia, the Kommersant daily reported today. The decision is raising significant opposition among local manufacturers. The local alternative to the Italian vehicle is the Russian Tigr (Gaz-233014 ), also dubbed as the ‘Russian HMMWV’. This vehicle has entered service with the Russian Army in 2006. The Tigr was developed by the privately owned company Russkie Mashiny. The Russian vehicle is currently going through a modification, applying a balanced armor and mobility package that will bring it to par with comparable western designs and will position it competitively with the locally produced LMVs.
The Russians are interested i buying 1700 locally assembled M65 LMV from Iveco. Photo: Iveco
The LMV M65 is a light multirole armored vehicle developed in 2001 by Iveco Defense Vehicles. It is designed with high level of protection against anti-tank and anti-personnel mines, small arms and IEDs. The LMV has successfully operated in Iraq and Afghanistan, primarily with the Italian forces. The Brits have recently deployed to Afghanistan their ‘Panther‘ version of the vehicle.
According to the Russian sources, the local production of the vehicle could be done by the Russian state corporation Rostekhnologii, currently negotiating with Iveco on launching the joint venture with planned minimum capacity of 500 vehicles per year. The production could utilize one of the assembly lines of truck manufacturer KamAZ and. The vehicles are destined for the Russian Interior Ministry and Federal Security agencies. The Russian Defense Ministry plans to spend about one billion US$ (30 billion rubles) on the program, acquiring 278 Italian vehicles in 2011 and 2012, and during the next two years the volumes of supplies will be increased to 458 vehicles per year. In 2015, the ministry will buy 228 vehicles and 75 vehicles in 2016. The cost per vehicle is expected to be around US$400,000.
The growing proliferation and increasing deadliness of missiles around the world pose a direct threat to the U.S. and its allies, making funding missile defense systems vitally important for America’s national security. Israel, positioned as one of the most threatened countries, is establishing a multi-tier ballistic missile and rocket defense system, positioned to improve the country’s resilience against such attacks. This effort is winning bipartisan U.S. support, with generous U.S. support funding most of Israel’s missile defense research, development and acquisition programs. Since 2007, the Appropriations Defense Subcommittee has allocated more than $750 million in federal funding for the Arrow and David’s Sling anti-missile systems.
Including this year’s allocation of $205 million toward Israel’s Iron Dome program, the Subcommittee has allocated nearly one billion dollars toward these three missile defense systems over the past three years. “This is only the latest example that when it comes to defense, military, and intelligence cooperation, the relationship between the U.S. and Israel has never been stronger.” said subcommittee member, Representative Steve Rothman (D-NJ).
Last week the Appropriations Defense Subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives has approved more funds than ever before toward joint U.S.-Israel and Israeli missile defense programs. The Appropriations Defense Subcommittee has just appropriated $217.7 million in funding for essential joint U.S.-Israel missile defense programs, which is an increase of $95.7 million in funds over the original request. “This is only the latest example that when it comes to defense, military, and intelligence cooperation, the relationship between the U.S. and Israel has never been stronger. Chairman Norm Dicks, myself and all the members of the Defense Subcommittee understand how important it is to be at the cutting edge of anti-missile technology, both to safeguard our own citizens and troops, but also those citizens and troops of our allies and friends such as the people of the Jewish state of Israel.” he added that, given the concern and attention Congress is focusing now on government spending for all purposes, including the defense of the United States and its allies, it is a mark of the importance of these projects that they were all funded so robustly and fully by our Subcommittee.
The ENVG is the first helmet-mounted night vision monocular to combine the strengths of both image intensification (I2) and infrared (IR, or thermal) technologies into one device. In 2005 ITT was selected by the U.S. Army to be the sole source for the system.
ITT’s ENVG optically combines an I2 image and an uncooled Infrared (IR – thermal) image, allowing for improved mobility and situational awareness. The monocular system uses I2 to provide clear target identification and IR to provide improved target detection. By combining the strengths of both technologies into one unit, soldiers are able to complete their missions more effectively.
Enhanced Night Vision Goggles (ENVG) Photo: U.S. ArmyENVG - Eyepiece View
The I2 capability operates by enhancing ambient light, whereas the infrared imager detects heat radiated from people, animals and other objects. His technology facilitates faster threat recognition and thereby reduces the possibility of collateral damage and fratricide. The I2 image generally provides better definition of details but cannot operate in conditions where ambient light is low or non existent (such as in caves, tunnels etc). I2 technology is also limited when ‘blinded’ by strong light or in daylight. Fusing the two channels systems can function under all operating conditions.
The development of the ENVG began in 2004 and first models were fielded in 2008 with special operations units. By early 2009 the 10th Mountain Division was the first regular Army unit to receive few hundred items. Sofar ITT has been producing the first generation Army’s AN/PSQ-20 ENVG under a sole source contract worth about $560 million. This contract expires by the end of 2010.
The current systems are more expensive, consume more power and heavier, compared to the systems they are intended to replace – PVS-7 and PVS-14. A future digital system ( ENVG – D) is expected to overcome these weaknesses and meet the Army’s objective weight and cost requirements.
Meanwhile, based on early lessons learned the Army made some improvements in the ENVG system, its fit and function, overcoming the weight. To compensate for the added weight, the helmet mount’s center of gravity was moved closer to the face, to increase comfort and stability. In addition, the system is now more compact and easier to stow in the pouch. The system is compatible with aiming lasers currently in use, allowing for a fully integrated system of thermal, laser, and image intensification.
ENVG
The future ENVG (D) is expected to be lighter, more rugged and consume less power. One of the main advantages of the future system is its ability to become a display system for the soldier systems (weapon sight, wearable computer). It will also support digital image transfer to Digital Video Recorders (DVR), remote computing devices and communications systems. This new system is expected to incorporate digital image intensification sensors and new long-wave focal planes supported by advanced fusion algorithms, low-power electronics and microdisplays are expected to reduce power consumption. Parallel development of the Digital ENVG is underway at ITT, BAE Systems and DRS. The Army is expecting to field new and improved digital fused imaging goggles by 2014.
In August 2010 the U.S. Army Research Development and Engineering Command (REDCOM) selected three companies to provide 660 Enhanced Night Vision Goggles (ENVG) for testing. After the test and evaluation of these systems for about a year, the Army plans to exercise options included in these contracts, for the procurement of full rate production ENVGs over a period of two years. The awarded companies are ITT, L-3 Insight Technology and DRS Systems. The three contracts, each valued around US$250 million, cover the delivery of the 220 systems in the base year, (2010) and options for the delivery of production quantities in the years 2011-2013.
The U.S. Navy Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) has selected the InSitu Integrator unmanned aircraft for the Small Tactical Unmanned Air System (STUAS)/Tier II system, and awarded the system developer Insitu Inc., – a wholly owned subsidiary of the Boeing Company – a contract worth nearly $44 million for the development and fielding of the service’s next generation tactical UAS, this contract will support low-rate initial production of two systems, one each for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps. Reportedly worth around $450 million, STUAS/Tier II calls for an initial fielding of 56 UAV systems, beginning in 2013. This follow-on contract worth up to $450 million. Initial operating capability is expected in fourth quarter fiscal 2013.
Insitu Awarded Small Tactical Unmanned Air System/Tier II Contract
“I’m looking forward to fielding the capabilities of STUAS to our forward deployed forces,” said Capt. JR Brown, PMA-263 Program Manager. “This critical system will greatly increase their intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities in theater.” According to Insitu Vice President of Emerging Programs and STUAS/Tier II Program Manager Bill Clark, the Integrator provides unsurpassed growth capability for expanding into new and future missions. The Integrator STUAS team led by The InSitu also includes the Harris Corporation, Corsair Engineering and Black Ram Engineering Services. Each Integrator system will comprise three or four unmanned aircraft, multi-sensor Electro-Optical (EO) payloads and a ground segment including launch, recovery and mission control elements.
The U.S. Navy Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) has selected the InSitu Integrator unmanned aircraft for the Small Tactical Unmanned Air System (STUAS)/Tier II system, and awarded the system developer Insitu Inc., – a wholly owned subsidiary of the Boeing Company – a contract worth nearly $44 million for the development and fielding of the service’s next generation tactical UAS, this contract will support low-rate initial production of two systems, one each for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps. Reportedly worth around $450 million, STUAS/Tier II calls for an initial fielding of 56 UAV systems, beginning in 2013. This follow-on contract worth up to $450 million. Initial operating capability is expected in fourth quarter fiscal 2013.
Early Deployment Could See Mixed Integrator, ScanEagle Units
Under the initial $43.7 million contract awarded last week (29 July 2010) Insitu will begin the 24-month engineering, manufacturing and development phase to build and test its Integrator UAS satisfying STUAS/Tier II system requirements. Following this phase the Corps will have an option to buy up to five Integrator UAV systems in fiscal 2011 for quick deployment alongside the currently fielded ScanEagle. Such an early stage operation could expand the current operational capabilities offered by ScanEagle beang leased from Boeing. ScanEagle and Integrator could share the same launch and recovery systems. The ScanEagle UAS that recently completed 340,000 combat flight hours was also built by Insitu has been leased by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps since 2004, operated and supported in the field by civil contractors.
The Integrator uses a stabilized multi-sensor payload developed by Hudd Technologies' Alticam Vision.
Introducing a New Multi-Sensor Payload
As with any UAV system, the sensors, the mission systems and, primarily the sensor payload is the main driver for the system’s success. Insitu’s continued to rely on its successful partnership with Alticam systems, currently called Alticam Vision, a division of Hood Technology that provided InSitu with EO sensors for the Scan Eagle since its inception. The Integrator will be equipped with a new EO payolad developed by Alticam Vision. The company’s gyro-stabilized 10″ diameter Multi-8000 turret that weighs 5.5 kg already provides simultaneous daylight and Near Infrared (NIR), Long Wave Infrared (LWIR) and Mid-Wave Infra-Red thermal imaging (MWIR) covering the 3-5, 8-12 micron and the 400-900nm visual and Near InfraRed (NIR) spectral bands. A laser range finding and laser marking, effective to distances of about 3,000 meters and, ultimately, laser target designation were a mandatory requirement by the U.S. Marine Corps. The Multi-8000 stabilized turret uses a matching aperture for each sensor, contributing to the distinctive look of the Integrator’s foresection. For daylight and low-light level the 350,000 pixel CCD camera is fitted with a x36 optical zoom, while the FLIRs operate a fixed field of view with the 640×480 pixel MWIR using two magnifications – 2.5° and 10° while the 320×240 pixel LWIR, used mainly for orientation and situational awareness, opens a wide field of 24°. Hood Technology has already tested a miniature ‘Nano SAR‘ system that could also be fitted to the Integrator. Sensor images will be transmitted through an encrypted line-of-sight digital data link provided by L-3 Communication Systems-West. Harris Corporation will provide the next generation communications relay payload to support secure ground communications.
[nonmember] In an effort to expand its domestic supplier base, India’s Ministry of Defense is planning to open the tender for medium transport aircraft beyond the government owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) last week opened the US$2.6 billion (12,000 crore) global tender to foreign vendors that can partner with a domestic private company to manufacture 56 transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force, replacing the obsolete fleet of Avro planes.[/nonmember]
In an effort to expand its domestic supplier base, India’s Ministry of Defense is planning to open the tender for medium transport aircraft beyond the government owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) last week opened the US$2.6 billion (12,000 crore) global tender to foreign vendors that can partner with a domestic private company to manufacture 56 transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force, replacing the obsolete fleet of Avro planes.
According to local defense sources the first 16 aircraft will be delivered four years after the contract award, to be manufactured abroad by the foreign vendor while they partner with a local private or public sector firm to transfer production to India. The next 16 aircraft will have to have 30 per cent indigenous component, while the remaining 24 planes will have 60 per cent locally-procured and produced items, DAC determined.
HAL produced 89 HS748M Avro aircraft since 1964. Part of the fleet has already been replaced with Russian Antonov An-12 and An-32, which itself is due for replacement by the jointly developed Russia-Indian Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA). The Ilyushin IL-214 MTA is being developed under a collaborative $771 million program between United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) of Russia and HAL in India. The Indian Air Force plans to buy 45 these 20-15 ton class tactical transport planes.
The logistical transport mission would be carried by a smaller plane, designed to replace the remaining fleet of 60 year old Avro HS748M. While Russian Ilyushin or Ukrainian Antonov are theoretically considered, most likely contenders are European EADS Casa C-295 and Italian Alenia C-27J Spartan. The aircraft should be able to transport 6-8 tons of cargo over 2,500 – 2,700 km range, at a cruising speed of cruise speed of 800 km/h. The aircraft should have a rear ramp and short-field capability, which both C-295 and C-29J provide.
These aircraft are transporting personnel and cargo between airbases. Indian defense officials said the 56-aircraft project would help in developing a domestic aerospace industry and capability to undertake such projects, opening new offset opportunities for foreign contractors seeking to expand business with India.
The decision has opened doors for private sector players like Tata, Mahindra and Reliance, which can form a consortium with the foreign vendors. Mahindra has already embarked on an ambitious plan to produce the Airvan 18 and Nomad N24 airplanes, versions currently designed to carry loads below the 7-8 ton goal foreseen for the Avro replacement.
While the contract opens new opportunities for the private sector, leading companies are not too enthusiast to come abroad, without a government commitment to quadruple their orders.
Our first impressions from the Farnborough AirShow this year are that short termed, urgent requirements, have finally reached the air forces, traditionally known for their long term visionary and meticulous planning processes.
The recent conflicts fought at high profile, in Southwest Asia and Iraq, leave the military with minimal tolerance for error and, under these circumstances, they want everything right now and at the lowest cost.
With the absence of a major enemy, western air forces tend big ticket spending on buying new aircraft, while dragging procurement decisions on almost everything that does not directly support current combat requirements.
F-16 Fighting Falcon Photo: Lockheed Martin
Fighter aircraft development and procurement programs are only one symbol of this trend. With a single, next generation fighters dominating the market for the foreseeable future, and the apparent commitment to buy few thousands F-35s over the next decades, the options open for air forces drill down to two – act now or wait and see. Some have already made their choices. The Canadians have recently decided in favor of the next generation fighter, as well as the Australians and British, but firm orders for production quantities are still pending. The U.S. Marine Corps are the most desperate for the new fighter, and the new accelerated test plan, currently underway, seems to brighten the future for the corps’ aviation, held in limbo as its current Vertical Take Off Short Landing (V/STOL) AV-8B and F/A-18C/D Hornets wear out under an extremely intensive operational regime.
Lockheed Martin, which has the highest stakes in the next generation fighter, opted to avoid the debate and visibly maintained a low profile with its F-35 program at Farnborough, leaving the scene for the competition. Wether this was a wise move or not, the future will tell, but it should certainly be scrutinized and questioned by the media.
F-35 AF-1 & AF-2 Arrival at Edwards Air Force Base. Photo: Lockheed Martin
The slow pace and escalating costs of the F-35 open rare opportunities for competing fighter manufacturers, despite not being ranked ’Fifth Generation’. They offer many advantages over F-35 – this can be better range or mission endurance, two-seat configuration, access to the aircraft avionics, integration of mission specific, or nation specific operating modes, and weapons that may not be included in the F-35 list. Better communications integration capability, or generally, implementing modern technologies that cannot be integrated into the F-35, due to its ’closed system’ approach add further to the dilemma.
This concept is best exemplified in the Gripen NG fighter, developed to respond to evolving requirements for modern fighters throughout the world, among those nations that are not prepared to pay for, or do not have the need for the 5th Generation stealth technologies associated with the F-35.
Whether 5th Generation fighters are justified or not is already a hotly debated issue, but the fact that major air forces, among them India, South Korea and Brazil and Japan are deferring their decision on 5th generation fighters to the middle of the decade, is encouraging countries like Denmark, Norway and Netherlands to re-evaluate their decisions on F-35.
Gripen NG. Photo: Gripen InternationalSpanish Air Force twin seater Eurofighter Typhoon from ALA-11 based. Photo: Eurofighter Typhoon
Others, like Switzerland, have reiterated their support for current generation fighters, over are moving to the next one. Aircraft manufacturers are encouraging these trends pouring new life into their systems through modernization programs.
The F/A-18E/F, andF-15SE from Boeing, Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale and Saab Gripen are being offered in new and enhanced multi-mission configurations. Typical enhancements include advanced Electronically Scanning (AESA) radars, enhanced electro-optical (EO) sensors and new cockpit architectures.
Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornets. Photo: Lockheed Martin
The next wave in cockpit design introduced at Farnborough mimics the large F-35 flat-screen panel, with integrated helmet display and sight. The two companies leading this trend are Elbit Systems, with their CockpitNG architecture and L3, the developer of the F-35 cockpit display system. Emerging technologies even offer distributed EO systems giving the pilot panoramic vision and improved situational awareness over an entire hemisphere.
Even the JSF’s uniquely designed cockpit combining a single large-area and helmet display, is now becoming available for aircraft upgrading and new designs.
In terms of communications, Generation 4.5 and modernized aircraft offer more flexibility to adaptation of new communications, and datalinks, including line-of-sight (LOS) and Beyond-Line-of-Sight (BLOS) Satellite links, having industry shift to ‘defensive modes’, focusing on modernization, enhancement and improvements of existing fighters.
Elbit is offering the new design for fighters, trainers as well as for helicopters, providing mission optimized design and significantly reduced workload.
Elbit Systems Cockpit NG - Smart 22" HD central display. Photo: Elbit Systems
Even stealth is no longer the exclusive domain of 5th generation fighters. Boeing is already developing the semi-stealth F-15SE, designed with conformal, internal weapon carriage capability and canted tails, that dramatically reduce radar cross section.
While its signature reduction is not expected to match that of the F-35, F15SE could offer significant advantage for the average missions of modern air forces, reducing requirements for full stealth platforms. Another trend is to adapt a ‘wait and see’ strategy, waiting for the unmanned combat air systems (UCAS) to emerge.
In fact, most of the missions carried out by manned fighter and attack aircraft could in the future be performed by unmanned assets, particularly in asymmetric scenarios. Manned missions would be reserved to gaining air superiority and maintaining air supremacy, which would require the skills, agility and rapid response of a manned piloted fighter.
Furthermore, UCAS are designed as unmanned systems, however, Boeing has already shown a future concept vehicle that could be produced as an optional, manned or an unmanned system, operating in a ‘pack’.
Boeing performed the first flight of the F-15E1 'Silent Eagle' flight demonstrator on July 8, 2010 Photo: Boeing
The opposition is also improving. Russian and Chinese fighters are evolving in a pace equal, and in certain areas, even superior to that of western platforms, matching the West in terms of aerodynamic performance, maneuverability and weapons. Traditionally inferior in avionics and mission equipment, Eastern fighters are currently rolled out of the assembly lines in Russia, China and Pakistan, equipped with the latest European technologies, as they are not bound by U.S. technology transfer limitations.
While top of the line fighter programs strive for the best performance and superiority at any cost, air forces engaged in recent asymmetric combat are realizing that such platforms are too expensive and relatively limited when called to perform ‘dull and dirty’ missions, requiring long endurance, efficient area surveillance, and precision strike capability in support of land forces. For these missions commercial aircraft are modified into special mission platforms, equipped with sensors, communications and operator stations to perform missions in the air, or relay intelligence and sensor data to ground-bound mission centers.
Northrop Grumman Long Endurance Multi-Intelligence Vehicle (LEMV). Photo: Northrop Grumman
Typical platforms are utilizing the Hawker Beechcraft 200 and 350, which has proved itself in operational missions in the Middle East and Afghanistan. Another aircraft being used extensively as special mission Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance platform is the DA-42 Guardian from Diamond Aircraft. Such aircraft are operating throughout the world by more than 20 countries, in support of police, law enforcement and government agencies.
To extend mission durations, the U.S. and other users are examining long endurance platforms, including airships that could remain on station for weeks, months and even years. One such system is the Long Endurance Multi-Int Vehicle (LEMV) airship, developed by Northrop Grumman and British airship manufacturer Hybrid Air Vehicles.
The DA42 Dominator is designed for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions with an all-composite construction that provides durability, reduced maintenance and lower aircraft weight to enhance mission endurance. Photo: Defense-Update
While special mission aircraft are traditionally also used to support other forces, an emerging trend evolving in tandem with armed UAVs, is the use of manned ‘armed reconnaissance’ platforms. Representative of this trend are the AT-802U Air Tractor, Embraer’s Armed Super Tucano and AT-6B from Hawker Beechcraft.
Unlike other surveillance aircraft, the Air Tractor was built to be operated from farm fields and dirt roads, and maintained out of the back of a truck. Photo: CAV
On the weapons domain, aerial weapons are becoming more precise, agile and offered at a lower cost. Few models displayed at Farnborough charting the path for the future, include the Saber from MBDA North America, a 10 pound precision-guided weapon, utilizing semi-active laser homing device and GPS/INS midcourse guidance and a scaled down ’Diamond Back’ wing kit, adapted from the Small Diameter Bomb which the company has been produced for several years. Another lightweight, high- precision weapon is the Mini Talon, produced by FTS, a Florida based MOOG subsidiary.
The U.S. Air Force has deployed the 30th and last MC-12 ISR Aircraft to Afghanistan in July 2010. Photo: US Air Force
Light combat brigades could be fielded by 2015 as part of the U.S. Army Brigade Modernization Plan. The Armed Robotic Vehicle-Assault (Light) (ARV-A-L) currently in development, could be ready for operation by 2014 and is currently planned for delivery to the first brigades by the years 2014-2015.
According to Lt. Colonel Jay Ferriera, Product Manager Unmanned Ground Vehicles, a key system for the ARV-A-L is the Autonomous Navigation System (ANS) being developed by General Dynamics Robotics Systems. ANS is scheduled to be ready for Integrated Qualification Testing on these robotic vehicles in 2012, anticipating initial operational capability with an airborne, air-assualt or light brigade by 2014.
Featuring an integrated weapons and reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (RSTA) package the ARV-A-L (designated XM1219) will support the dismounted infantry’s efforts to locate and destroy enemy platforms and positions. This robotic platform will support both anti-tank and anti-personnel weapons systems that to be remotely operated by network linked soldiers.
The 2.5 ton ARV-A-L will be sling-loadable under military rotorcraft. Its chassis is designed as the Common Mobility Platform (CMP) – a common chassis shared by different robotic vehicles developed under Multifunction Utility/Logistics and Equipment (MULE) program which has not survived the wave of cancellations that followed the termination of FCS.
Three larger unmanned combat vehicles were part of the FCS concept from its inception, but these combat capable robots were eliminated from the program in early 2007, in an attempt to save over $3 billion getting the program back on track. Setting the ARV aside for a while may have saved this vehicle, as it was developed ‘in the background’, and could be brought forward after the entire program collapsed. ARV-A-L is currently part of Capability Package 14-15, which will begin fielding in 2015. The CMP will provides superior mobility built around advanced propulsion and articulated suspension system rendering unique combat advantages, like extreme offroad mobility, and negotiation of complex terrain, cross obstacles and gaps that a dismounted BCT squad will encounter.
The CMP uses a 6×6 independent articulated suspension, coupled with in-hub motors powering each wheel. This design has proved to offer supperior performance, far exceeding that of vehicles utilizing more conventional suspension systems. The vehicle will be capable of climb at least a 1-meter step, far exceeding requirements, and provides the vehicle with the mobility performance and surefootedness required to safely follow dismounted troops over rough terrain, through rock and debris fields and over urban rubble. This technology also allows the ARV-A-L to cross 1-meter gaps, traverse side slopes greater than 40 percent, ford water to depths over 0.5 meters and overpass obstacles as high as 0.5 meters, while compensating for varying payload weights and center of gravity locations.
Optionally driven vehicles will also become reality by the second half of this decade. Future infantry vehicles like the Ground Combat Vehicle (GCV) will eventually be operated by the squad it transports, without committing additional crewmen – driver, commander and gunner. The vehicle’s systems could be operated from inside the vehicle or by a dismounted team members via remote controls. However, this vision is not het hammered into the current GCV plan or schedule awaiting further maturation of the ANS or comparable technologies.
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Welcome to the latest episode of Defense-Update News Summary! In this episode, we dive into this week’s developments in defense technology, military acquisitions, and strategic partnerships worldwide.
Some of this week's highlights include:
Elbit Systems...
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