Panhard and IMI Display Integrated Vehicle Protection Solutions at Eurosatory 2010

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Jun 12, 2010

Panhard and IMI are cooperating in Eurosatory 2010 to show an integrated display of Panhard vehicles equipped with IMI’s Active Protection Systems (APS) and advanced weapon stations. Panhard’s latest armored vehicle, the VBR, a medium armored vehicle, is displayed at IMI stand fitted with vehicle protection system, comprising the IMI Wave 200 Advanced Stabilized Remote Weapon Station, mounting an 0.5″ heavy machine gun and Iron-Fist Active Protection System (APS).

integrating all-weather, real time situational awareness, ‘soft kill’ electro-optical jamming and ‘hard kill’ interceptors, Iron FIst is capable in defeating threats such as anti-tank missiles and RPGs. The VBR comes with high power-to-weight ratio, and high-level protection and large payload-capacity and roof-area to accommodate different mission payloads. VBR can be modeled to carry turrets of various sizes or specific mission payloads.

Panhard also shows the Petit Véhicule Protégé (PVP) light armored vehicle, fitted with IMI’s Bright Arrow – a weapon station integrated with Iron-Fist – based components to perform as an APS. Bright Arrow is developed specifically for light and small armored vehicles. PVP was developed for liaison and protected security tactical missions. The vehicle is in service with the French Army.

Photos: Noam Eshel, Defense-Update

RADA Unveils “Sentinel” Radar for Active Protection Systems

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Jun 11, 2010

RADA Electronic Industries Ltd. will be showing at Eurosatory 2010 a new radar sensor designed specifically for Active Protection Systems (APS). The Sentinel (RPS-10) is the first entry of RADA into the land systems’ field. The development of the radar was accelerated to meet the tight development schedule of the IMI Iron Fist system, destined for the Israeli Namer Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). The new radar was successfuly tested as part of the system-wide demonstration conducted by IMI for potential customers.

Sentinel is a compact and lightweight, yet armored, pulse-Doppler radar that operates in the “S” band, detecting and tracking incoming threats (missiles, rockets, projectiles). The static radar “stares” over a sector of 210 degrees, enabling two identical and interchangeable units to cover a complete sphere around the protected vehicle. This digital radar is easily programmable and configurable, interfacing with its peripherals via standard Ethernet links. According to the company, the new radar technology is applicable to a wide variety of force protection systems and solutions, whether stationary or mobile, for Defense and Homeland Security applications.

The first application of RADA’s radar technology is the Sentinel Radar for Active Protection Systems for AFVs, which was developed in a record time and has already demonstrated excellent performance through rugged, live fire field tests conducted by Israel Military Industries (IMI)”, said Alon. Following extensive evaluation of several radars, IMI has selected Sentinel to be the primary sensor for their Iron Fist second-generation Active Protection System (APS).

Innocon Ltd.

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Jun 10, 2010

Innocon Ltd., a privately held company, has been developing and manufacturing UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) ranging from micro-UAVs weighing a mere 6 kg to 1000 kg full-size UAVs, equipped with the company’s proprietary command and control systems.

Company clients include leading defense companies BAE Systems and Elbit Systems for which the company developed the Hermes 90 design. Innocon’s developed and manufactured UAVs are in service in the U.S., Latin America and Israel as well as in a number of Asian and African countries.

Enter the Namer

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Jun 9, 2010

An update on the Merkava based Infantry Fighting Vehicle

“For 38 years we produced only tanks, but in the last two years we have expanded into a family of vehicles, with the development and production of the Namer IFV.” Brigadier general Yaron Livnat, Merkava Tank Program Manager (PM) told Defense Update. “The Mk 4 entered service four years after its development started. The development of the Namer began in 2007, and by mid-2010, a mere three years later, it is under full-rate production, with sufficient number of vehicles supplied, to equip several infantry battalions.” The Namer is based on the basic technology of the Merkava, but is actually a completely new vehicle concept. These differences already became evident from our visit to the production line, where many vehicles of the two types filled the various work stations and final assembly lines, sharing the same manufacturing facilities, previously used exclusively for Merkava Mk 4 production process.

Designed to carry a full infantry squad and a crew of three, Namer not only keeps pace accompanying the tanks in battle, in fact it is faster, more agile, maneuverable and protected, compared to the Merkava Mk 4. Handling the roughest terrain, ranging from the mountainous, rocky Golan Heights and Southern Lebanon, to the sand dunes of the Negev and Sinai desert, Namer also offers a level of protection that exceeds any other vehicle in its class. Namer uses a 1,200 hp powerpack already used in the Merkava. It also retains the high-performance suspension and automotive systems, developed by Ashot Ashkelon for the Merkava, enabling uncompromised mobility in rough terrain. Its internal and external design is modular and versatile, accommodating different mission-kits, as they are being introduced.

The Namer family of vehicles will comprise two sub-groups – fighting vehicles and combat support vehicles. Among the fighting vehicles are the infantry carriers, currently in production, a command vehicle having the same silhouette, but internally configured to work as forward command post, and a weapon carrier, modeled with an overhead unmanned weapon station, carrying guided missiles and a medium caliber automatic 30mm gun or the 120mm CARDOM mortar. The combat support group will include a medical evacuation vehicle, technical support vehicle, recovery vehicle and an engineering support vehicle. Eventually, Namer derivatives will replace many different vehicles, currently in service, including the Puma engineering vehicle, based on the long, old Centurion tank chassis, the Achzarit infantry carriers based on modified T-55s and under-protected M-113s still employed in different combat support roles.

At present, Namer is produced in the infantry fighting vehicle configuration, equipped with a stabilized remotely operated weapon station produced by Rafael advanced defense systems. Multiple display computers are delivered by Nir-Or Systems, providing the crew and passengers full situational awareness, under armor protection. Overpressure filtration and air conditioning system made by Kinetics render life support, in harsh environmental conditions and under chemical or biological attacks. A fire-suppression system supplied by Spectronics is also part of the vehicle’s survivability package. The forward located power- pack, characteristic of the Merkava, adds to the crew protection in the frontal arc. All- around, advanced, modular hybrid armor, provides high level protection, against all types of threats. “The weight saved by eliminating the turret was ‘reinvested’ in beefing up the armor” Livnat explained, “this has resulted, with Namer having better protected from belly charges and IEDs, than any other armored vehicle”. This becomes an important life-saving asset, in case the vehicle hits roadside or under belly IED. The armor suite uses a modular format, which is already designed to accommodate an active protection system (APS), planned to be installed in the future. The ‘Iron Fist’, currently under development at IMI, is being considered for the Namer. Providing a stand-off interception of incoming projectiles and missiles, Iron Fist will offer a hemispherical protection from threats fired from close-range and extended range alike.

Namer – to be Made in the U.S.A?

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Jun 9, 2010

An update on the Merkava based Infantry Fighting Vehicle

At present all the Namer AFVs are produced for the IDF, sharing the production capacity created for the Merkava tanks. Since the IDF Ground Forces Command would like to field more vehicles than the plant can currently produce, in an effort to quickly phase-out obsolete APCs, the IMOD is facing a tough choice – whether to minimize or even sacrifice the production of the Merkava tanks, to rush more Namer vehicles into the field, or to turn to the U.S. and spend part of the Foreign Military Funding (FMF) military assistance Washington is allocating to Israel, for the acquisition of defense products made in the U.S.A. Israel is hopeful that if the Namer will be assembled in the U.S., and be shipped to Israel for completion, with locally made systems, the IDF will be able to accelerate the fielding process of more vehicles to active units.

“This is a tough decision we’ll have to consider very seriously” Brigadier general Yaron Livnat, Merkava Tank Program Manager (PM) told Defense Update. “While economically it is an attractive proposition, we must assure that industries supporting the program will not be forced out of business, by such a move. We also must be prudent in retaining our indigenous armored vehicle production base. Since we consider the tank program being a more challenging and a complex undertaking, we decided to retain the full set of tank development, engineering and production capabilities well into the future.” Livnat added. Thus, by eventually producing the Namer overseas Israel will be able to retain the local currency budget, to finance the Merkava production line at its present pace, “This process will also prevent aging of its tank fleet, as we will continue to replace earlier generation Merkava tanks with brand new Merkava Mk4, in parallel to fielding Namer vehicles in an accelerated delivery, as requested by the IDF.”

According to General Livnat, requests for proposal were recently released to three US companies – General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS), BAE Systems and Textron Defense. “They are all excited about the program and we await a final decision soon,” said Livnat. Producing Namer AFVs in the U.S. could also become an export opportunity, “The Namer addresses many of the requirements stated by the U.S. Army for its Ground Combat Vehicle, however, we are interested in buying vehicles, and are not selling, or promoting them abroad” said Livnat. However, all three U.S. companies approached with whom Israel is discussing co-production of the Namer are excited to learn more and all were keen to have the potential to offer elements or derivatives of the vehicles addressing the U.S. army plans.

Conceived in a Virtual World

The vast experience gained with the Merkava tank has helped the program office to turn the Namer, from a design concept into a fully operational combat vehicle, in surprisingly short lead-time, less than three years. Electronic design and modeling was a major element in the success of the program; the vehicles designers have used state-of-the-art simulation tools to improve, test and simulate the ergonomic aspects of the vehicle, its subsystems and components, and the effect they might have on the occupants and operating procedures, maintenance and support. For example, simulations assessing extended operations, in the fully loaded vehicle, could assess how seats should be spaced for optimal comfort and safety, simulating how fully loaded soldiers move around in the vehicle, access equipment and conduct their tasks, while the vehicle is moving. In the past, such assessments required extensive and lengthy experimentation with ‘hand made’ technology demonstrators and prototypes, that preceded the final design.

These vehicles were extensively tested in the field, but after all these efforts they seldom represented a compromise, rather than best solution. Testing and improving the Namer in the virtual world enabled the designers to perform more extensive and complete simulations, particularly as to the ergonomic design of the vehicle and its systems. Different occupants could be simulated, male and females, tall or short, big and small models could all be ’stuffed’ into the virtual prototype and measure the comfort, performance, flexibility and other important ergonomic qualities of the vehicle. Such simulations contributed to improve and accelerate this process, saving immense costs of remodeling, retooling and reproducing the actual vehicles. Another aspect of the design was the definition of standardized assemblies and attachments, enabling the introduction and insertion of future elements, along the operating methods of the ‘telescopic Design’. This practice, developed during the early days of the Merkava tank, enables the engineers and designers, to schedule and insert an element in the future, thus enabling the accelerated deliveries of the initial production series completion, although they may still be lacking some non-critical elements. For example, the first production batches of the Namer were produced without air conditioning. These systems were inserted few months later, after the vehicles were already deployed in the field.

MERKAVA – 40 Years of Action

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Jun 9, 2010

Merkava 4 with its Trophy Active Protection System to Become the Hub of Israel’s Pavilion at Eurosatory 2010

This year the Merkava tank is celebrating its 40th years anniversary. For four decades the Merkava program remained on track, keeping pace major revolutions in technology, strategy, economy and political. “It was not an easy task” Brigadier general Yaron Livnat, Merkava Tank Program Manager (PM) told Defense Update. In 2006 the program reached its lowest point, awaiting the general staff decision to pull the plug on the Merkava program and, in fact, the entire armored corps. 12 months later the program was back on track, as the IDF realized its erroneous judgment, recovering from the second Lebanon War, where the Israelis suffered significant hits but also proved their prowess, land maneuver reestablished its validity and necessity.

With a fully funded long-term recovery plan to evolve the tank into a ‘family of vehicles, supported at the highest levels of GHQ and MOD,’ the IDF fully embraced the development and fielding in the introduction of a new armored vehicle, more than 40 years after deploying of the first M-113 APC, the Namer armored infantry vehicle emerged as a totally new concept.

“The Merkava program represents a highly sophisticated, heavy industrial complex which has only few counterparts worldwide. The program, established by General Israel Tal 40 years ago, remains virtually unchanged” said Livnat, “we still have the same departments and quite a few of our technical experts are working here, after more than 30 years. The same organizational formation is still valid, although we implemented state of the art computing tools and machinery. That stability helped retain the engineering, operational, combat experience and technical expertise, gained through the program’s evolution” Livnat added.

From a program focused on the automotive, protected platform of the 1970s the Merkava Program Management office (PM) evolved and expanded into new fields of vehicle electronics, software design, electro-optics and advanced armor technology, which are all part of the Merkava Mk4 and Namer IFV designs.

“Unlike its counterparts worldwide, the Merkava PM office represents a special breed – a military unit under IDF command and a branch of the Ministry of Defense (MOD) which is running a ‘business’, managing an operation in the methods used in the commercial world. This approach enables us to address our customers as piers, while ‘speaking the same language’ with our suppliers” explained Livnat.

Merkava 4 – The Tank of the 2000s

The development of the current generation Merkava Mk4 began in 1999 and represented a major step toward a modular, ‘open platform’. This unique approach enabled us to transform the tank from an armored vehicle, designed to fight other tanks, into a versatile platform optimized for a changing battlefield – from low-intensity asymmetric warfare to high intensity counter-armor operations. “In 1999 our charter was to design a tank that will survive changes and evolve with the time. We did not them call it ‘Asymmetric Warfare’. Back then we realized we will have to outmatch future threats with advanced protection, or active protection systems (APS), which did not exist at the time. But these were already included in the requirements and conceptual design of the tank, as we defined the interfaces of the armor, to accommodate future growth, as such technology would become available. Today, Merkava Mk4 tanks are rolling out of the assembly line, equipped with the latest Trophy Active Protection System, integrated as a standard element of the protection suite.”

Similarly, it was clear that information technology will develop at a rapid pace and we wouldn’t like to be left behind, so we packed enough electrical and computer power, by designing powerful computers that use a scalable, distributed computing architecture, sharing common, interconnected protocols and networks on board, providing the tank’s systems flexible means to perform multiple tasks in an efficient, redundant and reliable manner.

In fact, rather than having a specific processor committed to individual tasks, the many processors employed on the Merkava Mk4, provide ‘services’ to applications, each service is prioritized by parameters like importance, urgency and process-duration. These processors can be located in different areas of the tank and are interconnected into ‘rings’, over multiple network paths, providing a resilient and survivable infrastructure. This approach also offers exponential growth, as specific elements are not restricted by memory, computing power or other operating parameters. The original network developed for the Merkava, preceded the Digital Army Program (DAP) known as Zayad, which was introduced in later versions of the tank and is gradually being applied to the current fleet.

Design versatility is also characteristic in other areas, including weapon systems, armor protection and combat support tool attachments, enabling the user to rapidly and flexibly configure the tank with mission-specific kits, designed for different applications.

For example, an electrically controlled coax weapon-attachment is mounted on top of the main gun barrel, accommodating an automatic grenade launcher (AGL) or 0.5” heavy machinegun (HMG). This weapon enables the gunner to employ an alternative kinetic effect weapon, in situations that do not require firing the 120mm main gun. “To operate the AGL or 0.5” HMG the gunner uses the same firing and aiming procedures through the same sight, operating the tank’s ballistic computer, which is informed on the specific weapon’s ballistic characteristics” Livnat explains. The weapon is automatically aligned with the gun and connected to the gunner’s optics and fire control, through a common interface, embedded in the tank. This interface indicates the type of weapon and ammunition being used, enabling the ballistic computer to instantly lay the weapon in the correct aiming solution. “This versatility was the key in the transformation of the Merkava mk4 in recent years, from a main battle tank, into a versatile warfighting platform, capable of effectively engaging soft and urban targets, in less-intensive warfare, without sacrificing its operational capabilities in high intensity combat”, General Livnat concluded.

In the past, tanks normally fought and survived within rigid formations. Today, they can operate in looser ‘packs’, seamlessly sharing targets, coordinating activities amongst themselves and cooperating with other elements, over the DAP C4I network. After 10 years and numerous improvements in software, we still operate the same displays and user interface displays, although the version currently in service, has improved dramatically in the level of details and situational presence it provides to the user. We expect to replace these only when we shall implement the next phase-upgrade of the battle management network.”

The multiple networks embedded in the tank are also enabling rapid introduction of new electronic equipment, enabling the Merkava Mk 4 to remain up-to-date, with the highest standards. “Previous generations of tanks are not as easily upgraded, and their modernization process is extensive and laborious, and, therefore difficult to justify in times of budget cuts.” Applying the unique Merkava Program Office versatile process, is one of the reasons for Livnat’s confidence about the future of the Merkava production. “The IDF and MOD are supporting continued production of Merkava and Namer vehicles, at least throughout the next decade. This continuous production of Merkava Mk4 will enable the IDF to gradually phase out older tanks, that are more difficult to maintain and difficult to upgrade” said Livnat.

Israeli Active Protection Systems for Armored Vehicles

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Jun 9, 2010

merkava4_trophy — Merkava Mk4 tanks rolling out of the production line are equipped with the Trophy APS as a standard feature. The Trophy system has also been evaluated by a number of international armies, for use on various types of armored fighting vehicles. Photo: Rafael

Based on its latest combat experiences, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is moving forward with the development and fielding of active protection systems (APS) for tanks and armored infantry fighting vehicles (AIFV). Both systems are utilizing destroying threats without ever having to initiate their warheads, at ranges that significantly reduce risk to dismounted infantry or collateral damage. The fact that the IDF and the Defense Research & development Directorate (DRDD) at the Ministry of Defense decided to support two parallel developments of two different APS technologies indicates the high priority Israel is providing to active defense systems – for tanks and armored vehicles – with the Trophy from Rafael Advanced defense Systems and Iron Fist from IMI; in air and missile defenses systems – such as Rafael’s Iron Dome and David Sling and IAI’s Arrow, and at sea, with the IAI Barak 8 missile system.

The first is the Trophy, (also known as Aspro A), developed by Rafael. After extensive technical qualification and operational testing, the Trophy system was approved for production and became an integral part of the Merkava 4, it is now included in every tank rolling off the production line, making the Israeli tank the first Armored Fighting Vehicle in the world to field an operational APS as standard equipment. Rafael’s Trophy employs a network of four radar sensors covering a 360 hemisphere around the protected tank. The radar is integrated with the platform’s battle management system through the system’s processor, providing instantaneous detection of a threat immediately when firing a missile or projectile at the tank. Laser warning could precede the radar detection, if the tank is equipped with a Laser Detection System (LDS).

However, while LDS commonly provide a warning as to the estimated quadrant of the threat, the Trophy radar provides an accurate solution enabling the crew to engage the firing source even when the they have launched missile is in the air, effectively suppressing the guidance or eliminating the threat altogether. Furthermore, using network centric connectivity, the location of the target can be transferred to other weapon systems for suppression, while the tank takes evasive actions. Only when the threat closes in to a certain distance from the tank, the ‘hard kill’ element of the Trophy kicks in.

trophy_closeup — A close up view showing details of the Trophy APS components, including one of the the radar sensor, the hard-kill countermeasure mounted on its pointer pedestal, and blast deflector protecting personnel and equipment that could be exposed to the automatic system's blast effect. The deflector is necessary since the Trophy is initiated automatically upon the approach of an imminent threat. Photo: Israel MOD..

The kill mechanism used by the Trophy utilizes Multiple Explosively Formed Projectiles (MEFP). Mounted on an aimable pedestal, this module is pointed at the direction of the incoming threat and explodes, sending an ultra-fast sheath of melted fragments destroying the threat. This hard-kill countermeasure is effective against all types of Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM), Anti-Tank Rockets or High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) projectiles. The APS is considered the only effective countermeasure against warheads containing tandem warheads, designed to penetrate reactive armor systems. Relying on a highly directional explosive for both propulsion and kill mechanism, the Trophy APS delivers response time and kill probability significantly higher than other systems. The Trophy system can simultaneously engage multiple threats arriving from different directions and is effective on stationary or moving platforms.

Rafael is already developing follow-on versions for the Trophy. Future models will be able to engage a wider target set, including kinetic threats. Another evolution already in the pipeline is known as ‘Trophy 2’ – a more compact and lighter system, applicable to lighter vehicles including armored infantry fighting vehicles and armored personnel carriers. Trophy 2 follows the same principles of the the current system, optimized with the experience and know how gathered through the development of the first generation. Rafael has already conducted several successful firing tests with the system.

Like the Merkava tanks rolling out of the assembly line fitted with APS, Israel’s Namer AIFV will soon be delivered with a different APS – the Iron Fist, developed by Israel Military Industries (IMI). Unlike the main battle tank, expected to operate in independent small units or in support of other elements, AIFVs like the Namer will operate closely with dismounted infantry, particularly in urban combat. Therefore, its APS has to address different safety requirements for this type of operation. The Iron-Fist has completed development and is undergoing integration with the vehicle and its systems and is scheduled to enter production soon. IMI has recently completed a series of demonstrations of the Iron-Fist for Israeli and foreign officials, as part of trials conducted for the Namer program. Realizing the growing demand for such capabilities, IMI embarked on cooperative development with leading defense manufacturers, launching marketing efforts to introduce the system to a number of new procurement and upgrading programs.

Unlike the Merkava which absorbs the explosion of the MEFP brick on the side of the turret, the Iron Fist uses a mortar like interceptor tossing a projectile to engage the threat at a predetermined distance. This delivery method is considered faster and more responsive, compared to rocket propelled projectiles, optimized for intercepting targets farther down range. Like the Merkava tank the Namer will be equipped with two launchers mounted on each side of the vehicle. However, Iron Fist covers the protected hemisphere with two static sensors, rather than four flat panels used on the Merkava. IMI has designed the Iron Fist to operate a multi-layer protective system, comprising of situational awareness and early warning provided by radar and electro-optical sensors, soft kill elements utilizing an infrared jammer and hard kill.

iron_fist1 — IMI Iron Fist has been in development for several years. The system has begun integration on the Namer AIFV. Iron Fist and its components also being evaluated by interational customers and system integrators, considering employing the system's components as part of their own solutions. Photo: IMI

Iron Fist’s hard kill elements comprise of two twin-tube rotateable launchers employing fin-stabilized cylindrical shaped interceptors, built of a casing made of composite material filled with explosive charge. Shaping the blast’s shock wave provides an effective kill mechanism crushing ‘soft’ threats such as shaped charges or deflecting and destabilizing long-rod kinetic energy threats, significantly reducing their lethality and penetrating efficiency. The projectile is fully consumed by the blast leaving no hazardous fragments. Furthermore, the wavefront of the shock wave dissipates rapidly beyond the protected area, therefore, eliminating potential risk to nearby troops or non combatants.

iron_fist_interceptor — An interceptor of the IMI Iron Fist system displayed along with a surrogate RPG used for testing. Photo: Defense-Update

Like the Trophy, Iron-Fist provides situational awareness and integration with battle management and sensors and effector systems, and can handle multiple targets simultaneously, by employing the two launchers, in addition to soft kill countermeasures.

Iron-Fist is part of IMI’s comprehensive, multi-layered survivability concept, ranging from signature reduction, situational awareness and counter-strike, soft and hard kill countermeasures to reactive and passive protection. Iron-Fist fulfils a number of these measures, comprising an advanced, all-weather sensor suite enabling target detection, classification and tracking by radar and infra-red cameras. The Sentinel radar was developed and optimized for the system by Rada Electronic Industries. The passive, electro-optical sensor array, produced by Elisra, operates in parallel to the radar identifying potential threats at combat ranges.

‘Soft Kill’ Countermeasures Engaging 2nd Generation Threats

While ‘hard kill’ systems are being developed as part of Active Protection Systems (APS) countering threats of RPGs and anti-tank missiles, ‘soft kill’ countermeasures are also being considered, primarily against 2nd generation anti-tank missiles, where electro-optical (EO) jamming systems can be employed to defeat guided missiles, diverting them from their intended target. Certain types of anti-tank missile targets could be defeated by the system’s ‘soft kill’ two new VIRCM (Vehicle IR Countermeasure) systems, utilizing an advanced, solid-state, directional laser emitter developed by Ariel Photonics or the fiber-laser solutions developed by Elbit Systems for the MUSIC family of EO jammers. Both systems are displayed at the Israeli pavilion at the Eurosatory 2010 exhibition.

Operating as part of a comprehensive multi-layered protection system, such systems operate contniuously or automatically enter the active-defense mode when detected targets are attributed as threatening the protected platform. When a specific threat is identified the system will first attempt to engaged second generation anti-tank missiles, by soft-kill, employing infra-red light sources to disrupt the command line, forcing the missile to divert from its course and miss its target.

Elbit Systems offers its EoShield as a stand-alone system, that operates continuously, covering 360 degrees simultaneously (no moving parts are needed). The system operates automatically, without the need for any intervention of the platform’s crew. The EO Shield maintains a low profile and low signature, does not require connectivity to Missile Warning Systems (MWS) as it interfaces with the vehicle’s existing threat warning systems. The system contributes to increase the vehicle’s survivability by engaging certain targets at long range, thus eliminating the need for expendable hard-kill interceptors, which are usually available in short supply.

Elbit Systems’ EoShield is a vehicular derivative of the Company’s airborne IR Countermeasure line of products, consisting of the MUSIC system, a multi-spectral infrared countermeasure that protects military aircraft and helicopters from shoulder-launched missiles. Elbit Systems has also developed the C-MUSIC system – a commercial derivative of the military MUSIC system, which was selected for use by Israel’s national carriers.

Another mode of protection is evading detection and deception. At the Eurosatory 2010 exhibition IMI and Eltics are announcing the integration of Eltics’ Active Stealth and reactive technologies and the hybrid armor solutions from IMI, to introduce an ‘Invisible Reactive Armor Protection’ (IRAP). According to Rami Sokolower, IMI Marketing & Business Development manager for IMI’s Slavin division, IRAP modules will be developed, produced and marketed by IMI and Eltics, addressing the world market of medium and heavy armored combat vehicles, including main battle tanks, armored infantry carriers and Mine Protected Vehicles (MRAP, MPV). The IRAP will be provided as a medium weight solution, to be employed as part of the vehicle’s multi-layered survivability system.

Does Israel Need Two Active Protection Systems?

Is there a real justification for the IDF to field two different active protection systems in parallel? “The Rafael Trophy design, is more mature and is already operational, equipping tanks rolling out of our production line. The integration and maturation of this system took almost four years,” Brigadier general Yaron Livnat, Merkava Tank Program Manager (PM) told Defense Update, “we anticipate a similar process for Iron Fist. The two systems provide different defensive measures and at present, the latter system is in ‘pre integration’ phase, completing development and then proceeding to integration on the vehicle.” For actual fielding the system will require further formalities, IMI and Rafael are still competing on the supply of the Namer APS.

IMI is offering a multi-layered system, that consists of several layers of defense, from the detection and location of threats, by electro-optical and radar sensors, through soft-kill countermeasures against guided missiles, to the use of ‘hard kill’ interceptors, against the incoming threats. Rafael plans to offer a scaled- down version of the Trophy known as ‘Trophy Light’, designed to match the specific requirements of the Namer. Can Israel support two parallel development programs? Successful exporting of these systems will determine the validity of these ambitious thrusts. The Israeli MOD has realized the important role of exporting these technologies, and is actively assisting the two industries in exporting their APS systems, at the 2010 Eurosatory show and other international events.

This Metal Piece Could Save Your Life!

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Jun 8, 2010

Today’s armor solutions significantly increase vehicles survivability by preventing objects from penetrating the crew compartment; however, even without perforating the armor, the shockwaves created by the blast are propagating through the frame with deadly effect to the vehicle’s occupants. The human body is not designed to endure the accelerations and shock waves transferred through the rigid vehicle body, especially in the vertical direction (see IED Blast Related Brain Injuries). In order to protect the occupants from such threats, energy absorbing systems are employed to augment the vehicle’s protection, by isolating the crew from the vehicle’s body and floor.

The unique Energy Absorption (EA) technology developed by Mobius PS‘ experts is integrated in various blast protection mechanisms employed in modern military vehicles, designed to protect soldiers from mines and

mobius_blast_test — A chart depicting an actual blast test demonstrating the performance of Mobius Protection System Energy Absorption (EA) technology, reducing extremely high accelerations of 600g, to around 25g, a level considered survivable by the human body. Chart: Mobius PS

Improvised Explosive Devices (IED). When such a vehicle is effected by a mine or IED, the vehicle is exposed to extremely high accelerations caused by the blast and its associated effects, exposing passengers and the crew to accelerations of 250 to 600 g, a level 20 to 30 times beyond the acceleration survivable by the human body. The technology developed by Mobius PS rapidly dissipates the energies transferred by the vehicle in multi-hit scenarios.

A single EA element designed going through drastic deformation through the explosion is responsible for this phenomenal process, effectively taming the violent explosion forces into a human survivable jolt. Unlike other EA techniques that relying on complex assemblies, suspensions and moving parts susceptible to degradation by environmental conditions and corrosion, the Mobius PS EA protects from IEDs mines without compromising on performance, safety, ergonomics and user comfort.

To evaluate durability and survivability, hybrid crash-test dummies are used in drop-tower tests and live blast tests. The evaluation parameter is called DRI (Dynamic Response Index) indicating the probability for injury. According to Brig. General (Ret) David Engel, Mobius Protection Systems innovative technology broke the charts with outstanding results and very low DRI measures. Being very versatile, the technology can be implemented in various platforms for a very wide range of impact input patterns and available space. (charts: Mobius Protection Systems)

bench_mobius — Mobius PS have integrated their Energy Attenuation solution into wall mounts, floor mounts, benches and folding seats of different types, providing effective blast protection to all typoes of vehicles, including light vehicles having limited space for conventional blast protection systems. Photos: Mobius PS

Three Light Armored Vehicles to Compete for A$1 Billion Land 121 Phase 4 Procurement

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May 26, 2010

Ocelot, Hawkei and Eagle IV downselected for Australia’s Next Generation Light Protected Mobility Vehicle

Three Australian led teams were downselected earlier this week to develop protected mobility vehicle prototypes, competing for the ‘Project Overlander’ Land 121 Phase 4, a procurement of about 1,300 of the next generation of light protected mobility vehicles, worth over A$1 billion. The vehicles will be provided to the Army’s combat units and Air Force’s Air Field Defence Guards and will be designed to operate in future conflict environments. “The protected mobility vehicles will play an important role in keeping Australian troops safe in combat roles, including command, liaison and light battlefield resupply.” Said Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Materiel and Science.

Each of the teams will be awarded a A$9 million contract for the development of these prototypes. The three teams are led by Thales Australia, Force protection Europe and General Dynamics Land Systems Australia. Force Protection has established a wholly owned local subsidiary in Australia. Thales Australia has facilities in Bendigo, Victoria. General Dynamics Land Systems Australia has facilities in the suburbs of Adelaide in South Australia.

Two of the vehicles proposed for the Australian programs are new designs – Force Protection is offering the Ocelot, currently downselected for the British MPPV program; Thales is offering the new Hawkei, designed in association with Israel’s armoring expert Plasan. The vehicle has recently completed more than 10,000 km of on-road and off-road testing, meeting all its performance benchmarks and exhibiting high levels of reliability. In parallel, the vehicle also passed mine blast, side blast and ballistic protection tests verifying the performance of the vehicle’s protection suite.

GDLS Australia is offering a version of the Eagle IV, a mature design which has already been selected by several European armies, including Germany and Denmark.
The Australian announcement follows a decision by the Government in 2008 to participate in the current US Joint Light Tactical Vehicle program which is also working on the development of protected mobility vehicle prototypes.

Army Begins GCV Contractor Selection Process

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May 21, 2010

The U.S. Army closed the industry Request for Proposal (RFP) submission process today, effectively launching the formal Ground Combat Vehicle (GCV) contractor selection process. The Army will award up to three competitive contracts in late fourth quarter of Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 to build and test GCV ‘Technology Demonstrator’ vehicles, over a period of 27 months. “We have had good response from industry and now the source selection process will begin immediately. Due to the sensitive nature of this procurement and the Federal prohibition on the release of procurement information, the program office will not release further source selection details until the close of the process,” said COL Bryan McVeigh, program manager GCV.

The Technology Development Phase involves risk reduction, refinement of requirements, competitive sub-system prototyping activities, and planned technical reviews leading to a Preliminary Design which demonstrates the maturity to enter into Engineering and Manufacturing Development EMD phase.

Following the completion of the Technology Demonstration phase the subsequent EMD phase would run through the first quarter of FY 2016, and include delivery of the first prototype vehicle in FY 2015. The Army is approaching the GCV’s development in an incremental fashion — designing it for adaptability, modularity and scalability to adjust to and incorporate technological change. The source selection process is used during competitive, negotiated contracting to select industry proposals that offer the best value to the Army.

Among the teams submitting proposals are General Dynamics, teamed with Lockheed Martin, Raytheon Company teamed with MTU Detroit Diesel and BAE Systems teamed with Northrop Grumman. SAIC and Boeing, the team that have led the Future Combat Systems program, which included the predecessor of the GCV is also believed to be competing for the new program. Two foreign companies, Krauss Maffei Wegman and Rheinmetall Defence Systems are also participating.

Oshkosh Defense Unveils New M-ATV Ambulance Variant

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May 20, 2010

Oshkosh Defense is unveiling a new version of its MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) tactical ambulance variant at the 2010 Association of the United States Army’s (AUSA) Institute of Land Warfare (ILW) Army Medical Symposium and Exposition, which is being held May 18-20 in San Antonio, Texas.

“We’ve created an additional M-ATV tactical ambulance variant to offer a side-by-side patient litter layout in response to feedback from the military,” said Ken Juergens, Oshkosh Defense vice president and general manager, Joint Programs. “We developed the M-ATV ambulance to allow military operations to provide critical casualty care services in the unforgiving landscapes where tactical missions must operate. It is very important to us to attend events like the ILW Army Medical forum to meet with the officers and soldiers who will be using our vehicles in theater. Their input is crucial as we build the best possible vehicles for our Warfighters.”

The tactical ambulance variant offers a new mission profile and expanded medical capabilities while maintaining the durable, best-in-class mobility and superior crew protection of the original M-ATV offering. The vehicle seats three crew members plus two litters or four ambulatory patients. Like the standard M-ATV, the tactical ambulance variant provides 16 inches of independent wheel travel and uses 370-horsepower engine, an Allison 3500 SP transmission and a two-channel central tire-inflation system with four terrain settings. To ensure medics can reach and safely evacuate wounded Warfighters in the severe and uneven terrain where they must operate, the tactical ambulance uses the Oshkosh TAK-4 independent suspension system to achieve a 70 percent off-road profile capability.Oshkosh continues to expand the M-ATV into a family of vehicles. This tactical ambulance variant joins another version of the M-ATV ambulance as well as the M-ATV utility variant. To date, Oshkosh has received orders to deliver 8,079 M-ATVs for operations in Afghanistan, where those M-ATVs already fielded are providing superior off-road mobility for harsh mountainous landscapes and unimproved road networks.

B-52

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May 18, 2010

As the U.S. Air Force’s B-52 Stratofortress turns 60, the B-52H is being upgraded and modernized to continue assuming long-range strike missions under the Air Force Global Strike Command. Lt. Gen. Jim Kowalski, commander of the Global StrikeCommand said the modernization and sustaining the nation’s long range strike aviation capability is a top priority for the command. The Air Force is marking both the 50th anniversary of the last delivery of a B-52H to Minot AFB, N.D., and the 60th anniversary of the first test flight of the YB-52. Kowalski attributed the reliability and combat capability of the dual-role bomber to the talented maintenance personnel, outstanding depot support and the Air Force’s continued investment in the airframe.

The B-52H is a dual-capable aircraft designed to carry nuclear and conventional weapons in support of a range of military operations. It has been projected for a number of upgrades that have already been made to two B-52H test aircraft currently deployed to Edwards AFB. These upgrades are integral to ensuring the B-52H is both effective and able to fully integrate with other services, as envisioned in the Air Sea Battle concept, according to command officials. “Long-range, payload, persistence … these three attributes underlie key capabilities provided by Global Strike Command’s B-2 and B-52H fleet,” said Col. Rick Mitchell, the Bomber Requirements Division chief. “These attributes become increasingly important to combat the ‘tyranny of distance’ posed by the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.

Among the upgrades being introduced to the B-52H is a guided “smart weapon” capability integrated in the B-52H’s internal weapons bay, increasing the guided weapons payload by 66 percent. Another current program is an upgrade to the latest Advanced Targeting Pod, which will increase the B-52H effectiveness when performing close air support and other missions. The B-52H usually carries the Litening and Sniper targeting pods.

One of the test aircraft at Edwards AFB also featured an improved on-board communications upgrade called Combat Network Communications Technology (CONECT).

The CONECT program brings the B-52H from the analog into the digital age, according to command officials, providing an invaluable data link over which to pass mission and threat data.

With the new defense strategy placing a greater emphasis on the Pacific, it’s really important that our bombers are fully networked and integrated with the joint force, Kowalski said.

The command provides a fleet of B-52Hs and a cadre of Airmen from Minot AFB and Barksdale AFB year-round in support of the continuous bomber presence mission in the Pacific, which ensures stability and peace in the region.

“Integrating a beyond line-of-sight data link and installing new controls and color displays on the aircraft decreases the crew workload significantly,” Mitchell said “A controlling agency can now send mission updates to the B-52 via the data link without having to rely on voice communications.

“Because the data link is integrated with the aircraft offensive avionics system, the aircrew simply has to accept the mission change which is then automatically loaded into the avionics and weapons,” he continued. “Our current and temporary datalink solution does not provide us with this capability. The ability of CONECT to accomplish this retargeting allows for standoff weapons survivability and shorten the close air support kill chain.”

These digital enhancements will ensure the viability of the B-52H well into the 21st century, Mitchell said.

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BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. (AFNS) — During a recent visit to Edwards AFB, Calif., the commander of Air Force Global Strike Command spent time with B-52 Combined Test Force officials to preview the combat capability enhancements made to the B-52H Stratofortress.

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BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. — The B-52H Stratofortress has been a cornerstone of U.S. air superiority for decades. With its around-the-globe range, massive payload and intimidating appearance, the aircraft will remain in service for years to come.

In order to remain relevant in today’s force, the aging aircraft must periodically undergo technological upgrades. One significant upgrade the B-52 received was the addition of the Northrop Grumman LITENING II Advanced Targeting Pod. According to the Northrop Grumman website, the ATP is a self-contained, multi-sensor weapon aiming system that enables the crew to detect, acquire, auto-track and identify targets for highly accurate delivery of both conventional and precision-guided weapons.

“The ATP brings the B-52 several capabilities from self-deriving coordinates to designating laser guided bombs,” said Capt. Benjamin Poole, 2nd Operations Support Squadron instructor radar navigator.

It also expands the aircraft’s nontraditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, he added.

Before the addition of the $1.4 million ATP, the B-52 relied on an outdated radar system which limited its accuracy.

“Now, the B-52 can prosecute non-radar significant and/or moving targets with unparalleled accuracy,” said Capt. Jeffrey Morris, 2 OSS instructor radar navigator. “The B-52 is now in-line with targeting accuracy and many of the characteristics found in jets a quarter of its age.”

In addition to the advanced weapon guidance capabilities, the ATP also allows the crew to stream live line-of-sight video to special operations forces and Joint Terminal Attack Controllers on the ground.

The ATP was fielded beginning in 1999, and has been integrated on several aircraft including the A-10, B-52H, F-14A/B/D, F-15E/D, AV-8B, F-18, F-16 as well as many international military aircraft.

The B-52 is also testing an alternate system, the Sniper Targeting Pod, to determine the most effective asset for the aircraft. Upgrades like this are part of the ongoing effort to keep the B-52 on the leading edge of bomber technology. With the aircraft projected to remain in service for decades to come, leaders in the bomber community are always keeping their eyes on the future of combat capability, Morris said.

“In the future, the B-52s offensive suite software will continue to better integrate LITENING/Sniper capabilities,” said Morris. “The B-52 will continue to find, fix, track, target, engage and assess enemy resources at any point in the world thanks to continued improvements like the LITENING II ATP.”

General Atomics Proposes Carrier-Based Avenger to the U.S. Navy

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May 17, 2010

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. is proposing a new carrier-based derivative of the Predator C (Avenger) known as ‘Sea Avenger’, designed to address the U.S. Navy’s unmanned carrier-launched airborne surveillance and strike (UCLASS) system requirement.

Anticipating a future requirement for a carrier-based UAS, GA-ASI designed specific features into its Predator C Avenger to facilitate subsequent development of an aircraft uniquely suitable for carrier operations that would also integrate seamlessly into the carrier air wing. These include a highly fuel-efficient engine and inlet design, retractable electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor, internal weapons bay, and folding wings. The aircraft’s structure was also designed with the flexibility to accommodate carrier suitable landing gear, tail hook, drag devices, and other provisions for carrier operations.

“Sea Avenger fulfills the Navy’s need for a carrier-based unmanned aircraft system that offers long-endurance, proven ISR [Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance] and precision-strike capabilities,” said Frank Pace, president, Aircraft Systems Group, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

General Atomics claims that the Sea Avenger presents a low-risk, high technology ready procurement option, leveraging more than 18 years of Predator-series UAS development, manufacturing, and system support, along with one million flight hours of operational experience. The new system employs many Predator-series elements, components, and subsystems already provide mature, proven, and affordable mission capabilities desired by the Navy for a UCLASS system.

Sea Avenger is based upon its predecessor, Predator C Avenger. Predator C is designed to perform high-speed, multi-mission persistent ISR and precision, time-sensitive strike missions over land or sea. The current configuration features a 44-foot long fuselage and 66-foot wingspan, is cable of flying at 400 KTAS for 20 hours, and can operate up to 50,000 feet. Avenger incorporates a pure jet power plant and carries a Lynx Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), various EO/IR camera systems, and up to 3,000 pounds of internal ordnance, as well as other sensors. The aircraft is based on an open, modular architecture that provides “plug and play” system configuration, configuration management, and significant flexibility for rapid, controlled change, adaptation, and growth. Developed on company funds for near-term military use, Predator C Avenger is successfully continuing through its planned test program, with a second aircraft currently under development and expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Stealthy Hy-DRA Takes Hybrid-Electric Technology Off-Road

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May 17, 2010

Raytheon is entering the automotive market with an innovative new All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) aimed at the special forces market. Hybrid-Defense Reconnaissance Assault (Hy-DRA) was officially launched at the Special Operations Forces Exhibition (SOFEX), held in Amman, Jordan in May 2010. What sets Hy-DRA apart from other all-terrain vehicles is the advanced, hybrid-electric drive system (HED) enabling the vehicle to perform with unique stealth capabilities. The vehicle has a top speed of 96 km/h (60 mph). Its range is 563 km (350 miles) in hybrid mode. Employing its silent ‘stealth mode’, the Hy-DRA can travel on battery power only for about 29 km (18 miles) at up to 80 km/h (50 mph).

According to Raytheon, Hy-DRA offers near-silent vehicle operation with four high-torque electric hub motors that provide four wheel drive capability. The electric motor can also be used in a static mode as a power generator, supporting deployed forces with up to 30 kilowatt of power. The vehicle uses an advanced electronic control panel with embedded moving map navigation display.

The HyDRA can carry a payload of 453 kg (1,000 lb) or tow 1.4 tons (3,000 lb.) It is configured to accommodate a crew of three – driver in the front, and two team members in the back seats, facing forward. The vehicle can be used as a weapons platform, deliver supplies off-road used for combat evacuation, carrying two litters.
The vehicle weighs 1.088 tons (2,400 lb) and is designed for internal load inside a Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft. Each Osprey can carry a single vehicle while a Chinook medium-lift helicopter or can carry multiple Hy-DRAs. Even the Black Hawk can sling-load a Hy-DRA.

Defense-UpdateMilitary Technology & Defense News

Defense-UpdateMilitary Technology & Defense News

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