The XM-501 Non Line Of Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS) will begin fielding with the first Brigade Combat Team in 2011. The system provides a unique, flexible, platform-independent precision engagement system, empowering light and heavy brigades with immediate and responsive precision fires against moving and stationary targets and against surface targets at sea. The system employs the Precision Attack Missile (PAM), designed to follow preprogrammed flight paths and in-flight target updates.
Using the two-stage boost-sustain rocket motor and GPS/INS to navigate to the designated target area, PAM can reach targets at a maximum range of 40 km. At close proximity to the target the missile employs automatic target acquisition and terminal guidance system, using the uncooled imaging infrared or semi-active laser seeker, to hit the target with high precision. The PAM can also be directed to hit a specific location, utilizing GPS/INS guidance to navigate to the predefined grid coordinates. The missile is loaded with high explosive shaped charge with fragmentation wrap, defeating armored and soft targets alike. Each Command Launch Unit (CLU) contains 15 ready to fire missiles and one computer and Communications System (CCS) handling the system’s networking and control.
The XM-501 Non-Line of Sight Launch Missile System (NLOS-LS) Command Launch Unit can be deployed by a variety of means, including by parachute, sling-loaded from a UH-60 helicopter, or by truck (top) The system is operated unattended, and can be reloaded by hand. Photos: US Army
Operating as networked assets, CLUs are operated as unattended units, remotely controlled directly by the supported unit. The CLU can fire missiles individually or dispense all missiles at a rapid succession in 5 seconds intervals. Being platform independent, loaded CLUs can be positioned at forward operating bases or pre-positioned in forward areas to support an unfolding operation. CLU can be moved on tactical vehicles (HMMWV) or medium trucks (FMTV), sling loaded under UH-60s or air-dropped form C-130.
By late 2009 the XM-501 performed a live test flight demonstrating the full capability of the Precision Attack Missile (PAM) using a live warhead. The missile was launched from the NLOS-LS container launch unit (CLU) and used its on-board, semi-active laser seeker to detect, lock on and destroy a stationary BM-21 rocket launcher at a range of 38 kilometers (23.5 statute miles). “The success of this test means we’re only steps away from putting this capability in the hands of soldiers and sailors” Said Scott Speet, executive vice president of NetFires LLC and Raytheon’s NLOS-LS program director.
“This test proves NLOS-LS is going to revolutionize the BCT’s ability to strike targets with beyond line-of-sight lethality for both stationary and moving targets,” commented Col. Doug Dever, the U.S. Army’s NLOS-LS project manager. NLOS-LS takes targeting information from the command and control cell and sends it to the NLOS-LS CLU’s computer and communications system for initial missile targeting. The missile can also use the command and control cell’s targeting information for in-flight updates.
During the test, the PAM missile received a tactical representative target location error, joined the network with its on board radio and operated as a node on the net throughout the flight. Prior to impact, the missile sent back a terminal target image to the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System.
AUSA, Washington DC, October 2009: An important aspect of military operations in counterinsurgency and stabilization operations is understanding the ‘human terrain’ – the environment which the unit is operating in. Deciphering this subtle social matrix is an anthropological challenge, and has never been part of the military commander’s skill set. However, these social domains are the terrain on which asymmetric conflicts are fought and won, and as such, military commanders should be prepared to assess the situation, avoid obstacles and seize the ‘high ground’, by solving some of the issues most concerning and critical to the local population.
In recent months Human Terrain Teams (HTT) have been embedded with combat units in Afghanistan, assisted with tactical, geospatial systems to learn, understand and interact with the local population. HTTs consist of soldiers, trained sociologists and anthropologists and regional experts, supported by U.S. based center of expertise providing a ‘Reachback’ pool of knowledge. Assisted by advanced technology, officers are able to rely on new software tools developed under the ‘Mapping the Human Terrain (MapHT) – a Joint Capability Technology Demonstration (JCTD) managed by the Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD). The system transforms random and disconnected events into more predictable and actionable decision-making process. The HTS program is the first systematic application of social science research at the tactical brigade level. MAP-HT is currently undergoing evaluation in Afghanistan and is scheduled for fielding with all teams through 2010.
Part of the Human Terrain System (HTS), MapHT is developed by BAE Systems, implementing the Tactical Ground Reporting System (TIGR) for reporting and services derived from Distributed Common Ground Systems – Army (DCGS-A), developed by Overwatch Technology, for data management and retrieval.
MapHT provides commanders with an understanding of socio-cultural information that can be integrated into the decision making process, assessing course of action within the cultural and social context of the target area. The system accesses and generates a situational understanding from surveys, interviews, patrol debriefs, human intelligence from local sources, ethnographic reports etc. Preparing and reporting on Shura meetings with local elders and religious leaders, encounters with local villagers and business owners. Post event reports can be shared with other elements in the area, having access to similar TIGR map-based reporting systems. Utilizing various analysis tools and access to expert and specialist support, commanders can develop more focused courses of action, apply feedback tools to measure and assess ‘human terrain’ operational effectiveness which assist in further improving the system’s operational model.
The ASV based armored scout vehicle shown with elevated sensor mast. Photo: Textron Systems.
AUSA, Washington DC, October 2009: Textron Systems took the AUSA opportunity to introduce a new and upgraded version of the M1117 family – designated ‘Mobile Survivable Vehicle’ (MSV). Textron engineers have increased the vehicle’s gross weight by 18%, to 38,000 lb, allowing an increase in spent armor protection and added payload capacity (220% increase). The vehicle has beefed-up exterior armor and appliqué composite armor interior. Better protection is also the result of the redesign process, for example, the utilization of blast deflection surfaces and non-structural elements designed to blow off during mine event. Elevating the vehicle has increased ground clearance by 44% and the larger; protected wheel wells have been vented and strengthened to provide better blast protection. The side windows and windshields were enlarged, providing better situational awareness from within.
The ASV based armored scout vehicle shown with elevated sensor mast. Photo: Textron Systems.
The crew and passengers have individual blast protected seats. The vehicle is equipped with a more powerful 365 hp diesel engine, bringing the heavier vehicle to the performance level of the original Armored Security Vehicle (ASV) scout – road speed of 100 km/h (65 mph) and 0 – 80 km/h (50 mph) acceleration in 30 seconds. The new 4×4 vehicle also retains the ASV’s mobility and obstacle negotiation performance, The MSV is equipped with 16 inch tires, and independent suspension. Other M1117 models introduced by Textron Systems include an armored personnel carrier. The vehicle is based on the baseline ASV, extended from 237 to 261 inches (6.0 to 6.6 meters) seating two crew members and eight troops.
This year the company has developed and tested an enhanced combat survivability kit for the ASV and its new variants. The kit comprises several protection enhancement designed to fit all ASV variants. The kit includes taller and higher rated suspension, larger (16 inch) tires, increased track, anti-lock brakes, improved seating and restraints and secure door/hatch system. Another variant proposed by Textron is the Reconnaissance, Surveillance, Target Acquisition (RSTA) vehicle – employing the sensor pod designed for the U.S. Army Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH). The 5-axis stabilized payload comprises a high resolution Safire LV FLIR with power zoom optics, daylight/low-light CCD, laser rangefinder and laser illuminator used for target marking and counter-sniper surveillance. The sensor is mounted on a telescopic mast, recessed in an armored stowage bustle. The two-man turret also mounts two weapons – an automatic grenade launcher and coaxial machine gun.
The map-pased display of ENFIRE system depicts the movement path of a patrol, automatically collecting route waypoints along its movement path. The system's instruments also enable precision measurement of special objects of interest for terrain recce - road details such as curves, slopes, bridges, culverts, obstacles are all measured, mapped and stored in the 'terrain' overlay of the operational digital map used by operations, intelligence, fire support and combat service support elements. Photo: Defense Update/Northrop Grumman
A new system, soon to be fielded with U.S. Army engineers teams and platoons is the ENFIRE Instrument Set, Reconnaissance and Surveying system, developed by Northrop Grumman. The system is designed as a map-based reporting system, supporting the processing of terrain reconnaissance – currently done sporadically through a complex and laborious manual process reserved only to few skilled professionals.
Current procedures require soldiers to be physically at a target to take measurements of road curves, bridges, minefields or buildings. ENFIRE, designed under the guidelines of the Army’s ‘Every Soldier is a Sensor’ (ES2) initiative, enables engineering reports to be filed by infantry squads equipped for the job. The system employs a short distance laser rangefinder to take measurements from remote locations. A long range Laser Range-Finder (LRF) is used to take bearing and distance from the users location at a range of up to six kilometers. Used in conjunction with the Defense Advanced GPS Receiver (DAGR) and ArcMap geographical database software, ENFIRE users are able to create overlays of bridges, roads, hasty minefields and locations of IEDs plotted on digital maps as they collect the information related to these targets. Digital images and short video files can also be attached to the report for more details.
The map-pased display of ENFIRE system depicts the movement path of a patrol, automatically collecting route waypoints along its movement path. The system's instruments also enable precision measurement of special objects of interest for terrain recce - road details such as curves, slopes, bridges, culverts, obstacles are all measured, mapped and stored in the 'terrain' overlay of the operational digital map used by operations, intelligence, fire support and combat service support elements. Photo: Defense Update/Northrop Grumman
NetReveal services developed by BAE Systems’ Detica, provide automatic processing and access to huge volumes of information, suggesting association and links between objects of varying formats and origin. Enabling analysts to gain an insight and develop situational awareness and understanding in rapidly unfolding scenarios, intelligence agencies can process large volumes of inbound, multiple format intelligence, dynamically and automatically comparing it to a historic back drop of millions of data items and reports in search of hidden links.
Conventional text based intelligence processing systems that rely on manual association between structured data objects, for example, identifying members of a terrorist cell by linking calls from a suspect’s cellular phone records. According to BAE Systems, NetReveal can identify and highlight entities and links over multiple domains of unstructured data. For example – correlating between two groups of people who called a certain phone number and drove a specific car, the two sets are unassociated events involving people who are non suspects, but the correlation of communications link and access to the same vehicle hints on the existence of a ‘network’, triggering an alarm for further investigation. The system automatically generates such ‘networks of intelligence’ using free text, structured and unstructured data, correlated with geospatial and time dimension. Based on the ad-hoc analysis of historic and current data mined from all available sources, including human intelligence and open sources, this process dynamically suggests associations between entities, anomalies, unveiling associations and underlying trends that analysts have not been aware of before. Data processing that could have taken days in past methods can be performed within minutes.
The system was implemented by the Joint IED Defeat Organization (JEIDDO) in a new intelligence collection and analysis system aiming to uncover and target the operational, financial and social networks involved in IED deployment.
AUSA, Washington DC, October 2009: A new version of the Stryker at AUSA 2009 in Washington DC, configured as a ‘Wheeled Combat Vehicle Demonstrator’ was also on display. The vehicle presents the achievements of a collaborative effort undertaken by a team of industries led by General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS). The team configured the advanced combat vehicle by integrating a range of readily available and mature systems, that can be fielded in the immediate or near future (TRL level 6-7) on current Stryker Brigades, during reset or retrofit or through new production for future brigades. Increased firepower is available with the new remotely controlled 25/30mm armored medium caliber Remote Weapon Station (MC RWS). The vehicle also introduced the new Mast Sensor System, developed by Lockheed Martin and Raytheon. The MC RWS and MMS can be employed together to form a ‘hunter-killer’ assembly.
The display of the mast mounted sensor, developed by Raytheon is different from the CMMS proposed for the sensor by Lockheed Martin. This display shows a combination of images from several sensors (driver's thermal imager and main FLIR), while other feeds are accessible on a click of an icon. It also shows the payload's relative position and a panoramic 'strip' at the center, providing an 'unblinking eye' for continuous coverage of the vehicle's perimeter and area under surveillance. Photo: General Dynamics Land Systems.
Other enhancements include a digital backbone, power management, improved armor, blast mitigating seats. The MC-RWS turret has its on-board optics capable of identifying and engaging targets at ranges up to 4,000 meters. Coaxial 7.62 mm machinegun provides added firepower and flexibility. The gun is loaded with 160 ready rounds. Unlike an overhead station that does not penetrate the armor deck, MC RWS do require minimal turret deck penetration. The advantage of this configuration is the ability to reload the gun under armor and firing the gun at high elevations of up to 70 degrees. The system has no turret basket, enabling the protected transport of a full squad.
GDLS plans to expand the Piranha based Stryker’s platform with a 450 hp C9 engine, coupled to a ZF 7HP902 transmission (7 forward 1 reverse speeds) through a single-speed transfer case, designed to provide enough torque to match the vehicle’s maximum gross weight of 55,000 lbs. This beefed-up Stryker can travel at 100 km/h (62 mph) on road, cross a two-meter wide trench and climb a 60% grade. The vehicle has an independent, gas spring hydraulic dampening suspension for each of the eight wheels, operated with computerized damping control and selectable height adjustment via height management system. Capable of adding significant weight, the updated Stryker could be fitted with modular add-on armor kits including appliqué armor against kinetic and fragmentation threats, IED, VB-IED and RPG protection, utilizing LERA hybrid-reactive modules. The vehicle’s counter-mine protection has been improved by selective strengthening of the hull, and implementing computer-controlled variable height, maintaining maximum vehicle ground clearance and height, under all terrain and road conditions. Further blast protection is gained by composite floor plates absorbing fragmentation and blast protected seats allocated to all crew members and troops.
The multi-spectral mast mounted system was installed in an unarmored configuration on the Stryker's five meter telescopic mast , providing 360 degrees coverage for reconnaissance and surveillance. Photo: Defense Update
The vehicle is equipped with a 570 amp alternator charging four HASF-FT batteries supporting the vehicle’s on-board electronics. On board systems can also talk to each other over the CAN-Bus digital network. Cameras located in key positions around the vehicle and at the rear, enabling the crew to develop situational awareness over 360º, keeping warfighters fully aware of activity in close proximity of the vehicle. Digital displays are available to all crew members, providing access to vehicle systems’ status which are automatically monitored by embedded diagnostics. Images from external sensors can also be displayed. Communications include JTRS, WIN-T and the new FBCB Joint Platform Tablet computer, extending FBCB2 situational awareness to dismounted use.
GDLS Artillery team has also been working on a self propelled howitzer, as part of an industry team developing artillery fire support systems utilizing the C-130 transportable Stryker platform and the South African Denel 105mm Self-propelled howitzer gun design. The main armament is a 52 Caliber 105mm gun, with effective range of 30 km with unassisted ammunition, and over 40 km with rocket assisted projectiles. The turret is fitted with an assisted rammer. The vehicle has ammunition stowage of 56 rounds. While offering equal effectiveness, the 105 ammunition weighs about half the weight of comparable 155mm projectiles. The 105 mm Mobile Gun System (MGS), the SpH can also fire armor-piercing discarding sabot (APFSDS) rounds in direct fire, at targets range of 0-3,000 meters. The Stryker SpH has a combat weight of about 45,000 lbs.
AUSA, Washington DC, October 2009: More details on the Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTV) have emerged recently with ongoing Technology Demonstration (TD) phase underway, with each of the three teams producing three basic configurations of the vehicle: Category A with payload capacity of 3,500 lb, seating four soldiers, B category carrying 4,000-5,000 lb payloads and seating six soldiers and Category C – utility prime-mover and ambulance, seating a crew of two and carrying up to 5,100 lb of payload. A common trailer is also part of each vehicle family. Once the vehicle enters production, JLTV is expected to become one of the largest military vehicle acquisition programs worldwide, hence, the US is inviting international partners to ‘buy-in’ their place in the project, similar to the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program. Interested nations must be fully on-board, prior to the beginning of the request-for-proposal process, expected after the current technology evaluation phase.
The first partner already signed in for the program is Australia, joining the TD phase by funding and testing eight test vehicles. Further participation with the U.K., Canada and Israel is also in discussion. While the TD phase could be too early for international partners to consider, the following Engineering, Manufacturing Development (EMD) and Production phases are more likely and will also be open for local and international competition. The Army and Marine Corps managing the program are considering multilateral or bilateral project arrangements for the EMD phase using the ‘buy-in’ approach, where cooperating nations will be required to pay to become a program partners. Interested nations must be fully on-board prior to the beginning of the EMD Request for Proposal (RfP) process. At the AUSA exhibition in October 2009 the BAE Systems-Navistar and Global Tactical Vehicles (GTV) teams both displayed Category B vehicles, while Lockheed Martin brought the new ambulance version of its Category C variant.
The Valanx vehicle built by the BAE Systems/Navistar team is built of an armor grade aluminum monocoque V-hull, providing basic small arms and mine protection in the basic design. Additional protection B-kit provides enhanced protection with thicker transparent glass, hybrid laminates of advanced armor steel and alumina providing side protection and titanium plates augmenting the underbody protection. The Valanx is powered by an International 6 liter V8 diesel engine coupled with an Allison 2500 6 speed automatic transmission and Cushman transfer case. The power pack employs a starter generator delivering 20 kW of electrical power on-board and 10 kW exportable power. Off-road mobility is enhanced by the independent, double control arm/ airbag suspension with active damped and adjustable height. Four wheel steering is provided in the longer (B and C) versions to reduce turn radius and improve mobility over rough terrain. The A category vehicle is shorter and is not equipped with the rear wheel steering.
GTV is building a single vehicle type common to all categories, extended in the B and C categories by the use of an interlocking trailer extension. The vehicle’s V-shaped monocoque hull is fabricated of aluminum, augmented with space frame in the upper section. B-kit armor enhancements employ ceramic armor appliqué; with segmented underbody protection made of alumina, and enhanced transparent armor on the windows. GTV is powered by the General Engines Products twin turbocharged I-6 Optimizer 3200 diesel engine delivering 300 and 500 hp, to suite the different weight classes. The powerpack includes the Allison automatic transmission with six speeds, a transfer case supporting high-low lock and four wheel drive. The vehicle has fully independent, short and long arm semi-active suspension with compressible fluid, supporting variable height adjustmentAs in other JLTV demonstrators, the engine is equipped to deliver power generation supporting 20 kW on board and 10kW exportable electrical power.
The JLTV technology demonstrator built by Lockheed Martin is based on a common frame associated with modular cabs – a shorter A version and longer B and C variants. The vehicle’s hull is designed with improved V shaped form, providesg a high level of protection in the basic version, necessitating minor B-kit enhancements for perimeter, underbody and transparent armored windows. The shorter variant is powered by a 4.5 liter Cummins diesel engine while the longer and heavier models employ the 6.7 liter engine. The engines are coupled to an Allison transmission and Arvin Meritor transfer case. Lockheed Martin used an independent suspension with double control arm, air spring struts and adjustable height.
AUSA, Washington DC, October 2009: Persistent surveillance is another field of improvement for the U.S. Army. Current assets, including aerial and vehicle mounted stabilized EO systems, are providing good performance. However their availability, mobility and mission endurance is measured in hours, not days, determined by platform, power and operator limitations. Being able to operate sensors over a wide area and perform surveillance over days and weeks could mean fewer gaps in coverage and lower exposure of units on roads. A wide range of systems displayed at AUSA 2009 suggested ways to improve persistent surveillance performance. Among these were the a range of Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS), a new mast mounted surveillance system, panoramic vision systems enabling effective views under armor protection and improved, lightweight remote video terminals for the users.
Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS) are a central element in the U.S. Army Brigade Combat Team modernization effort. Part of the FCS Spin-Out program are two UGS systems developed by Textron Systems – the AN/GSR-9 Tactical-UGS and AN/GSR-10 Urban-UGS sensors, (also known as the Urban Military Operations in Urban Terrain Advanced Sensor System – UMASS). The two sensors will operate with common communications hubs and processing elements, to perform mission tasks such as perimeter defense, surveillance, target acquisition and situational awareness. When deployed, sensors are linked to a gateway system that transmits target data or situational reports back to the user, over the brigade’s wideband data network. In future scenarios, these sensors will provide the outposts for small units, equipped with unmanned systems and precision attack munitions.
These UGS will be triggering alerts in the presence of potential threats, other sensors, such as the Honeywell T-Hawk unmanned system (Class I XM156). This backpackable ducted-fan UAV system is powered by a small gasoline engine and is equipped with a small electro-optical payload assembly that can carry a daylight or infrared camera. The T-Hawk can hover over the suspicious target for about half an hour, or perch for longer periods from a nearby vantage point. Images from the UAV are monitored by the controller at the infantry squad, and also transmitted over the wideband network to the platoon command post for further action.
Persistent surveillance for brigade and below is one of the fields of improvement planned for future Brigade Combat Team (BCT) Enhancement. Current systems offering persistent surveillance are operated at division and above, used primarily in combating and preempting IED emplacements. Among the future systems that could be considered are specialized ground based sensor arrays, including combinations of sensors triggering each other when a target appears. Other sensors utilize ground surveillance radars and panoramic surveillance systems to provide ‘slew-to-cue’ functions pointing narrow-field EO systems. Another spin-off from the FCS program is being developed collaboratively by Lockheed Martin and Raytheon is the Mast Surveillance Sensor (MSS), employing a mast mounted version of the medium-wave multisensor (EO) system developed for the cancelled Manned Ground Vehicle (MGV) project. The system is applied with an advanced mission management and control system enabling wide area surveillance, tracking of targets of interest and investigation, using the high power zooms. The system also employs other on-board sensors fused into a fused panoramic view of the covered area.
These peripheral imaging systems could utilize BAE Systems’ new Fused Vision System (FVS), providing both forward and rear viewing imagery. The FVS consists of an imaging sensor module combined with the front marker-light assembly and blackout drive lamp and containing the fusion engine, the driver’s output display module, and the central interface module.
360 degree surveillance can also be used to provide situational awareness for armored vehicles. Different cameras and imaging systems are currently available. HGH Infrared Systems has developed the IR-360 – a high sensitivity, high speed cooled infrared camera which sweeps over 360 degrees in one second, detecting and tracking multiple moving targets, in day or night, through fog, smoke or haze, detecting human movement in real time, beyond 1,000 meters. The system can be coupled with thermal/visual imaging system to support more detailed surveillance. The system is employing advanced image and IR processing systems developed by IEC Infrared Systems, which have also been integrated in two new systems introduced by IEC – the IntrudIR alarm and tracking system and M-1 NightStalkIR family of surveillance systems.
AAI's tactical remote exploitation terminal (T-Rex) can support 18 simultaneous video feeds from different sensors, supporting real-time sensing and live and after action analysis utilizing advanced data visualization and association techniques, text extraction, geospatial and temporal analysis. The terminal controls multiple sensors over the map-based interface, supporting simultaneous intelligence gathering missions from multiple platforms. It is interoperable with the DCGS-A and Prophet signals intelligence system. Photo: Overwatch/Textron Systems
As more imagery data and intelligence reports are gathered at the lowest-echelon, and with the introduction of wideband datalinks and networking extending connectivity ‘to the edge‘, distributing imagery away from the sensor, to improve situational awareness at the company and battalion level becomes imperative. Receiving imagery and intelligence in real- or near-real time, annotating, tagging and storing large masses of information, and retrieving and presenting it on demand becomes a critical factor for future intelligence and operational planning.Today’s combat network radios are limited in their data transfer capacity and are inadequate to transport large files and imagery, therefore necessitating the use of dedicated wideband networks and datalinks. Analog and digital video links are currently used to transfer video from UAVs to remote users, utilizing the video link and display terminal known as OSRVT. These capabilities are being extended and enhanced, with the introduction of digital links, that enable rapid processing of ‘kill chains’, enabling ground forces to task, and clear fires from manned (attack helicopters) or unmanned (Predator, Hunter UAVs) assets teamed with ground units at every level, as part of the land-based combat unit. The key to this capability is having the ground unit commander monitor the aerial sensor payload view of the target through the OSRVT, clearing firing command based on their knowledge of situation on the ground. This procedure is different from the air-force practice of air support, where assets such as Reaper and Predator, or manned aircraft are conducting their attacks under different conditions, relying on guidance form joint tactical air coordinators or aerial recce.
AUSA, Washington DC, October 2009: The network centric that transformed the capabilities of air and naval forces in recent years is finally settling with the land forces, where outdated platforms and communications technologies, coupled with complex integration challenges have hindered sofar the introduction of wide-scale network-centric capabilities. With wide-band networking services becoming accessible at theater, the services are beginning to outfit command vehicles with mobile wideband connectivity that connects them to the global network. This tasks will become simpler with the introduction of JTRS wideband networking radios as part of the Network Integration Kit, as part of the brigade combat team moderrnization process. As these floodgates are open, the procedures, equipment and applications used at the tactical operations centers must be modified to prepare for the handling of masses of information. Some of these services are tailored as mission specific, assisting combat platoons in mission preparation and debriefing or helping medics perform lifesaving support on medical evacuation. These Some of these elements were displayed at AUSA 2009.
A 4×4 Cougar MRAP displayed at General Dynamics C4 Systems at the AUSA 2009 exhibition demonstrated how this command vehicle can be tailored to offer company commander continuous connectivity on the move. This Cougar demonstrated how the company could access the ‘global information grid’ (GIG) using battalion command post as a ‘bridge’. The Cougar is also equipped with wireless networking to support local users, including smartphones, iPhones, notebooks and the GoBook digital dial tone mobiles.
To extend effective links to dismounted soldiers Soldier Radio Waveform (SRW) is employed linking with teams equipped with the AN/PRC-154 JTRS HMS rifleman radios. For the demonstration the armored vehicle was fitted via vehicular radios supporting the new Wideband Network Waveform (WNW), linking via Network Centric Waveform (NCW) to the battalion tactical operations center. To support the company in its forward position, the battalion operates a Tactical Communications Node-Lite (TCN-Lite) providing satellite WIN-T connectivity to support battle command and network services. ‘Point of Presence (POP) application, linking a company commander into the GIG through the current tactical net and broadband WIN-T network, to his battalion, and brigade networks, extending full situational awareness, video conferencing and C4I supporting the mobile users at the lower echelon.
A ‘side effect’ of the decision to modernize all brigade combat teams with new sensors, robotics and precision fires is the introduction of relevant networking infrastructure to make the sensors, weapons and unmanned systems work. This process will drive a technological transformation of the combat units, eventually leading to the replacement of all the Army’s 30 year old radios. The first phase of this process is the ‘Network Integration Kit’ (NIK). An incremental collection of radios, computer software and networking capabilities, NIK is required to connect between the new sensors and their operators. It will also enable information and images to be transferred to from the squad to the platoon, company, battalion and brigade, enabling all networked users to access all sensors.
While the primary goal is sensor access, the new networking infrastructure is not limited to sensor data – in fact, the entire brigade will rely on its wideband connectivity. Company and battalion command posts will become information and networking hubs, carrying data and images from the lower echelon, transferring it over WIN-T and satellite links to throughout the brigade and above. At its present form, the NIK comprises the integrated computer system (ICS) that hosts the Battle Command software and the new System of Systems Common Operating Environment (SOSCOE) software, along with Joint Tactical radio System (JTRS) Ground Mobile Radio (GMR) systems. NIK is currently configured as a vehicular system but future versions will also be developed to support man-portable applications.
The Battalion Tactical Operations Command post displayed at the AUSA exhibition represented this new concept. Utilizing existing systems, such as the Command Post Of the Future (CPOF) system, supporting collaboration between brigade and battalion commanders, Maneuver Control System (MCS) operational planning applications and the recently enhanced version of Force XXVII Battle Command Brigade & Below (FBCB2) Joint Capability Release (JCR), providing the ‘blue force’ tracking and ‘red force’ data to be superimposed on aerial imagery. The new FBCB2 also enables live streaming ‘picture in picture’ to be integrated on the display; it also provides for color marking of specific elements – a unit formation or vehicles in a convoy, obtaining better situational awareness in complex situations, where multiple friendly forces clutter the screen.
With the increasing flow of information and assuming more tasks beyond their combat responsibility – battalions are responsible for everything – combat support, civil affair, legal and media relations. The TOC, once the kingdom of the battalion commander has turned into a beehive, accommodating at least 20 staff officers and assistants, dealing with everything from combat decisions to communications, fire support to medical evacuation and intelligence to legal matters. Much of the complexity in operating these diverse tasks was coordination and update of the operational picture – developing situational awareness, providing early warning on hostile actions, preventing risk of friendly fire, managing movement of units, coordinating support etc. With the new networking systems, such coordination will be automatic. Distributing the tasks to different workstations performing collaborative work from different locations, thus relieving the pressure from the TOC, provide more time for decision making and analysis, in a less pressured environment.
An integrated information system literally designed to save lives is the Global Patience Care and Tracking System (GPCATS) developed by Sierra Nevada Corp. (SNC). The system integrates airborne medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) helicopters, medics on the ground and forward medical care facilities to assist the medics with modern telemedicine technology. A central element of the system is the Electronic Critical Care Flow Sheet (ECCFS), which handles all the patient’s treatment procedures and history. The system uses wireless communications to monitor multiple patients, administering necessary intervention when needed; providing hospital specialists will also be able to network with medics, assisting medevac and preparing the hospital to receive the patient on arrival.
Different aspect of military operations in counterinsurgency and stabilization operations is the understanding the ‘human terrain’ – the environment which the unit is operating in. Understanding this subtle social matrix is an anthropological challenge, which has never been part of the military commander’s skill set. Assisted by advanced technology, officers are able to rely on new software tools developed under the ‘Mapping the Human Terrain (MapHT) – a Joint Capability Technology Demonstration (JCTD) managed by the Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD). The Human Terrain System (HTS) developed by BAE Systems, utilizes the Tactical Ground Reporting System (TIGR) for reporting and services of the Distributed Common Ground Systems – Army (DCGS-A), developed by Overwatch Technology, to run the database and server services. The system tracks surveys, interviews, patrol debriefs, human intelligence from local sources, and ethnographic reports to create a situational understanding of the human, sociological and cultural environment related to the area of operation. MAP-HT is currently undergoing evaluation in Afghanistan and is scheduled for fielding with all teams through 2010.
A new 105mm self-propelled artillery system based on the Stryker vehicle is currently in development by an industry team led by GDLS and Denel. Photo: GDLS.
AUSA, Washington DC, October 2009: A major future improvement anticipated today is the precision enhancement of indirect fires, at brigade level and below. Sofar the anchor of the Brigade’s precision fires artillery was the 155mm gun-fired Excalibur GPS guided projectile. Soon, more choices will be available with the introduction of precision 120mm mortars bombs and Precision Guided Kits (PGK) for artillery projectiles, enhancing the brigade’s organic precision indirect fire capability. In addition, Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) missile to be fielded by 2011 will introduce direct, simple, and effective fire support methods, applied at the lower echelon, without the support of forward observers and air/ground liaison teams. Precision attack could be further enhanced by improved guided long-range rockets such as GMLRS+ and the Hammer loitering weapon.
A new 105mm self-propelled artillery system based on the Stryker vehicle is currently in development by an industry team led by GDLS and Denel. Photo: GDLS.
One of four priorities set for the second phase to be pursued by the new ‘Brigade Combat Team Modernization’ program is ‘enhanced precision mortar capability’, currently addressed by a number of companies, among them ATK, Raytheon and BAE Systems. One of the most mature products is the DAGGER GPS guided mortar bomb, developed jointly by IMI and Raytheon.
The Dagger 120mm guided mortar round, being developed under a collaborative program between Raytheon and IMI. Photo: Defense Update. Below: Two images depicting the PGK-1 precision artillery and mortar kits developed by ATK. Photos: Defense Update.
Similar effects for mortars and artillery rounds are obtained with the Precision Guided Kit (PGK) being developed by ATK. Raytheon is also offering the Spearhead PGK-2 guidance kits, configured for 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds. Fitting as replacement fuse on existing rounds, PGK uses Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) signals to monitor the flight path of the round and release corrects the trajectory of the projectile thus improving hit accuracy and reduce delivery errors to a circular error probable of 30 meters, regardless of the range fired.
The XM-501 Non Line Of Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS) will begin fielding with the first Brigade Combat Teams in 2011. The system provides a unique, flexible, platform-independent precision engagement system, empowering light and heavy brigades with immediate and responsive precision fires against moving and stationary targets and surface targets at sea. The system employs the Precision Attack Missile (PAM), designed to follow preprogrammed flight paths and in-flight target updates. Using the two-stage boost-sustain rocket motor GPS/INS to navigate to the designated target area, PAM can reach targets at a maximum range of 40 km and employs one of three attack modes – autonomous terminal homing, semi-active homing on a laser designated target or attack of a designated grid point. Being platform independent, loaded Command Launch Units (CLU) can be positioned at forward operating bases or pre-positioned in forward areas to support an unfolding operation. The CLU can be moved on tactical vehicles (HMMWV) or medium trucks (FMTV), sling loaded under UH-60s or air-dropped form C-130. Operating as networked assets, CLUs are operated as unattended units, remotely controlled directly by the supported unit. Once fielded, the CLU is expected to become a modular launch system accommodating a number of weapon types for different applications.
One system absent from the exhibition was the Griffin Small Guided Munition (SGM), currently under development at Raytheon. This small missile is expected to be a weapon of choice to be employed by UAVs and light helicopters, providing a localized, yet effective impact on the target, while minimizing collateral damage to non combatants and nearby troops.
The Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) has proved itself in combat as an accurate weapon system, delivering massive firepower rapidly and accurately over extended ranges. GMLRS+ is an evolutionary improvement of this weapon, being offered by Lockheed Martin under a product improvement initiative to enhance the capabilities of Field Artillery operating the M270A1 and HIMARS launchers. The rocket adds two retractable aerodynamic surfaces that increased the rocket’s aerodynamic performance and extended range. Coupled with the use of terminal area seekers, such as the DAGR semi-active laser seeker, GMLRS+ can engage targets from different directions, adjusting its flight path to arrive at the target ‘over the shoulder’ of the target designator, thus reducing the risk of missing the target or homing in on laser reflections. The rockets launched in sequence can be programmed to impact the target simultaneously, gaining a maximum effect on target with fewer rockets.
Another enhancement of the MLRS family could be the Hammer ground-launched multi-role loitering missile developed by Raytheon, unveiled at the AUSA exhibition. The Hammer was designed as a low-cost, land based loitering weapon system, based on the Miniature Air Launched Decoy (MALD) family, extending the Army’s electronic attack and Suppression of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD) capability. Powered by a TJ-150 turbojet engine Hammer sustains flight duration of 60 minutes at 30,000 ft. at a cruising speed of 0.6 mach. The missile can cover a range of 200-500 km guided by on-board GPS/INS navigation unit, offering long-range precision strike with unique re-attack capability. Flying an autonomous mission along a pre-programmed path, the missile can loiter over the target waiting for the radar or missiles to activate or receive and acknowledge target updated in flight, through a two-way communications link. A range of warheads available for the missile provide for different effects, from electronic attack, to semi-active laser targeting, to moving targets attack and all weather capability. The missile uses existing MLRS/HIMARS launchers, each loading one (HIMARS) or two (M270) six-pack containers.
AUSA, Washington DC, October 2009:The exhibition provided a preview of potential improvements for major platforms, such as the Stryker, Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle, Paladin self propelled gun, M-1A2 SEP / E3 Abrams main battle tank and M-1117 Armored Security Vehicle (ASV). It was an opportunity for several companies to present a conceptual approach to manned-unmanned operation of ground vehicles, such as in convoy operations.
The Army’s next generation Ground Combat Vehicle (GCV) was the hottest item on the premises, but neither the Army, nor industry has even a clue about how these vehicles will look like or if they will be tracked, wheeled or both. The Army wants its next generation combat vehicle to improve force protection, with the first increment of vehicles fielded by 2017 to providing all occupants explosive blast protection equivalent to Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP), as well as the ability to observe 360 degrees from inside the vehicle. All increments are expected to integrate advanced passive and active protection, as technology matures and lighter materials are available to provide comparable protection. The vehicle will provide full tactical mobility in rough terrain and confined urban landscapes. The first increment will be the Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), to be designed to maintain the maneuverability of the Bradley, while surpassing the protection level provided by the current tracked vehicle.
An option for such IFV could be the enhanced version of the Stryker infantry combat wheeled vehicle, which made its debut here as the ‘Wheeled Combat Vehicle Demonstrator’. The vehicle presents the achievements of a collaborative effort undertaken by a team of companies led by GDLS, that developed a combat vehicle, integrating a range of mature, readily available technologies that can be rapidly fielded with Stryker Brigades during reset, or through new production for future brigades. Among these new enhancements are increased firepower, provided by a new remotely controlled 25/30mm armored, Medium Caliber Remote Weapon Station (MC RWS) and a Mast Sensor System, developed by Lockheed Martin and Raytheon as a derivative from the Future Combat Systems program. Other enhancements include a full digital vehicle networking backbone, power management, improved armor and blast protection. GDLS also introduced the Infantry Squad Module Demonstrator – a developmental tool developed by GDLS to evaluate the survivability, situational awareness, power management and squad ergonomics assessing mission effectiveness of vehicle mounted infantry squad equipped with integrated soldier systems and equipment expected to be fielded by 2015. The module design is based on lessons learned from recent conflicts and the FCS program, and implements improved blast protection, power availability and battery charging requirements, situational awareness and connectivity to stowage access and placement, enabling rapid egress and ingress.
Force Protection has also unveiled new enhancements for the MRAP, among them the vehicle tactical functions management system known as the HUB. Installed as an add-on to standard MRAPs, integrating multiple electronic systems on the vehicle, the HUB connects surveillance and reconnaissance payloads, remotely operated weapons system, mission computers, radios, blue force tracking devices, GPS, acoustic fire detection systems, IED jammers, multiple radios and intercom – all are connected through the ‘vehicle network’ to enable the driver and commander to operate the systems in an efficient way from the cabin crew stations.
A different approach was demonstrated by Textron Systems, which took the AUSA opportunity to introduce a new and upgraded version of the M1117 family – designated ‘Mobile Survivable Vehicle‘. Targeting the upcoming Canadian acquisition of hundreds of new armored vehicles, Textron engineers have adapted their vehicle to the Canadian requirements, increasing the vehicle’s gross weight by 18%, to 38,000 lb, spent mainly on additional armor protection and increased payload capacity (220% increase).
All three Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTV) Technology Demonstrators (TD)were on display at the exhibition. Last year the JLTV program office has awarded three technology demonstration contracts to three teams, to produce three basic configurations of the vehicle – with payload capacity of 3,500 lb seating four soldiers in the front and back seats (A category), B category carrying 4,000-5,000 lb payloads and seating six soldiers, and a utility prime mover and ambulance seating a crew of two and carrying up to 5,100 lb of payload. A common trailers is also part of each vehicle family. At the exhibition, the BAE Systems-Navistar and Global Tactical Vehicles (GTV) teams displayed Category B vehicles, while Lockheed Martin displayed an ambulance version of its Category C variant. Once the vehicle enters production, JLTV is expected to become one of the largest military vehicle acquisition programs worldwide. Hence, the Army and Marine Corps managing the program are inviting international participation in the program, where foreign countries could ‘buy-in’ their place in the project, similar to the JSF fighter program. Interested nations must be fully on-board prior to the beginning of the request for proposal process expected after the current technology evaluation phase.
An M-1A2 SEP turret demonstrator on display at AUSA outlined a range of optional new systems integrated into the latest SEP-2 model. Among these were a thermal blanket from Saab, the CROWS II remotely controlled weapon station from Kongsberg, a new display for the loader, and a new head-up display applied on the standard vision block, designed by Oasis systems. Images and computer symbology projected over the vision block providing a ‘head up display’ effect, improving situational awareness for the tank commander.
The Army’s newest acquisition – M-ATV currently underway to Afghanistan, was represented at prime contractor’s Oshkosh booth. An M-ATV based technology demonstrator developed by Oshkosh hints about the future applications of tactical vehicles, based on autonomy, power and all-terrain mobility. The new technology demonstrator is implementing the TerraMax system, integrating sensors, artificial intelligence and drive-by-wire technology to function in autonomous, leader-follower or manually driven modes.
A different application of ProPulse employed on theA3 version of the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT A3) converts the vehicle into a power station, and load carrier configured to carry the modular Payload Loading System (PLS). This innovative application that made its debut here introduced a rapid deploying power station, utilizing renewable energy by a windmill and solar panels, utilizing the vehicle’s ProPulse system as a backup generator. The system is designed to produce 25 kVA of continuous AC power on demand.
Lockheed Martin is also developing technology to support a mixed manned-unmanned convoy, through the Convoy Active Safety Technology (CAST) – a modification kit that turns a conventional truck into an autonomous member of a convoy with a push of a button. Utilizing the company’s developed AutoMate sensor and actuator kit, CAST enables the unmanned vehicles in the convoy to control the vehicle’s lateral and longitudinal position along the road and relative to the leading vehicle, avoiding obstacles, and maintaining constant interval between vehicles to improve the safety and security of the convoy, and reducing crew fatigue and exposure to hostile attack. The system has already been integrated in Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) and M915 vehicles, demonstrating five vehicle convoy operations. The system is designed to support movement at speeds of 50 mph on paved roads and 35 mph on dirt roads, operating in day and night, under limited visibility conditions.
AUSA, Washington DC, October 2009: As the largest world operator of UAVs, the U.S. Army has flown over 760,000 combat flight hours with the growing fleet of UAVs. To date, over 1,400 UAS operators have been trained with 2,300 additional trainees competing their training in 2010. Among the new UAVs, the Army is taking delivery of the first Sky-Warrior Extended Range Multi-Purpose UAV among 11 systems (132 aircraft) planned for procurement, the first platform designed from Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Attack missions. Similar missions are being performed by the MQ-5B Hunter, while improvements underway for the RQ-7 Shadow small UAV will introduce closer cooperation with ground units, directly linking UAVs with scout and attack helicopters, via the new VUIT-2 system.
Enhancements are also performed with the RQ-11B Raven, deployed with a new digital datalink, thus increasing the number of Ravens operating simultaneously in an area from 4 to 16. A new addition is the new XM-156 T-Hawk UAV is planned to be deployed with all 73 brigade combat teams in the upcoming years. More supporting systems enhancing the use of unmanned systems are also being fielded – including common ground stations and controllers, and command, control and remote video terminals, enabling more users to take advantage of these indispensable assets.
Ongoing programs are underway to upgrade and increase the number of helicopters in the fleet, introducing models of UH-60M Black hawk and CH-47F Chinook built as new or re-manufactured from existing platforms. The Army is also fielding a new aviation brigade to be equipped with available assets. To sustain the new and existing units pressed hard under the deployment cycles and combat tempo, extensive pilot training is underway at Ft. Rucker, to fill the gaps in trained aviators and support personnel. Other programs are moving slowly or stalled altogether. These include in-theater transport, joint heavy lift helicopters, and aerial common sensor (ACS) SIGINT system. Instead, the Army promoted ad-hoc systems developed to meet urgent combat requirements, such as the Aerial Counter-IED ODIN Task Force, Project Liberty and Constant Hawk platforms – all developed, maintained and operated in theater by civilian contractor L3 Communications.
Lockheed Martin's air and missile defense systems - Patriot PAC-3 (upper), enhanced version (MSE) and the THAAD (lower), shown on a missile display at Lockheed Martin's display.
AUSA, Washington DC, October 2009: Improving early warning and protection of forward operating bases is urgently needed by many armies. The advanced lightweight counter-mortar radar providing early warning on incoming mortar attacks, and new, very-short-range interceptors, designed to defeat such threats before they hit their targets.. Other missile defense systems being fielded under the U.S. Army control include enhanced PAC-3 combined air and missile interceptor, and THAAD missile defense system are being developed under the U.S. Missile Defense Initiative, to protect forward deployed forces from short and medium missile attacks.
Lockheed Martin is pursuing a terminally guided Hit-to-Kill (HTK) mini-missile kinetic interceptor for the Extended Area Protection and Survivability (EAPS). Photo: Defense Update
Early warning enables soldiers to take cover while the system plots the firing mortar location, enabling the FOB or other forces in the area to take action. These radars can also provide early warning for Counter Radar, Artillery and Mortar (C-RAM) weapons such as the Extended Area Protection and Survivability (EAPS) missiles currently under development by teams headed by Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. Two concepts are developed – the LM team is pursuing a terminally guided Hit-to-Kill (HTK) mini-missile kinetic interceptor, while NGC is developing a seeker less, passive interceptor, utilizing proximity-fused forward-firing warhead to achieve a similar effect. Both missiles are designed to intercept subsonic targets such as mortar rounds, at ranges as short as 3,000 m’. Both systems will rely on the XM-501 NLOS-LS for operations and logistics, with each CLU carrying up to 132 interceptors, or configured with mixed loads of Precision Attack Missiles (PAM) and EAPS C-RAM interceptors. The systems, expected to be ready for testing by mid 2011. It will be supported by a dedicated 360 degree staring AESA radar, providing battle management ad guidance, as well as the new EPQ-36 enhanced counter artillery and mortar radar, currently being developed.
Another C-RAM system is the Iron Dome, developed by Israel’s Rafael. Raytheon is already cooperating with Rafael on the development of the Stunner medium-range rocket and missile interceptor, being developed with support of the US missile Defense Agency; sofar the Iron Dome program was funded exclusively by Israel but after proving high level of maturity, U.S.-Israeli production of the systems could be considered, as such a capability is meeting urgent requirements both in Israel and in other theaters.
Extending air- and missile-defense even further, Lockheed Martin is introducing an enhanced performance Patriot PAC-3 missile, designed to encounter evolving threats at ranges and altitude about 20 percent beyond the current missile’s capability – the new interceptor will use a larger, dual pulse rocket motor and larger, collapsible fins, allowing the missile to fit into the current PAC-3 launcher, giving the interceptor more maneuverability against faster and more sophisticated ballistic and cruise missiles. The warhead and guidance systems will remain the same. Maintaining its strategic mobility and existing infrastructure, this PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) could integrate with naval based SM-3 and TPY-2 radars to provide a forward deployed element of the missile defense capability being proposed by the White House and Pentagon. PAC-3 MSE has already been selected as the primary interceptor for NATO’s Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS) and is planned to provide the lower tier element in President Obama’s new missile defense program.
The visual sensor is part of the AN/GSR-9 Tactical unattended Ground Sensor system. It comprises an imaging sensor taking snapshots of the scene, triggered by the attached passive infrared sensor located at the right. Other elements of the system include seismic and acoustic sensors. Photo: U.S. Army.
Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS) are a central element in the U.S. Army Brigade Combat Team modernization effort. Part of the FCS Spin-Out program are two UGS systems developed by Textron Systems – the AN/GSR-9 Tactical-UGS and AN/GSR-10 Urban-UGS sensors, (also known as the Urban Military Operations in Urban Terrain Advanced Sensor System – UTASS).
The visual sensor is part of the AN/GSR-9 Tactical unattended Ground Sensor system. It comprises an imaging sensor taking snapshots of the scene, triggered by the attached passive infrared sensor located at the right. Other elements of the system include seismic and acoustic sensors. Photo: U.S. Army.
The seismic sensor is part of the AN/GSR-9 Tactical unattended Ground Sensor system
The two sensors will operate with common communications hubs and processing elements, to perform mission tasks such as perimeter defense, surveillance, target acquisition and situational awareness. T-UGS is designed as a modular set of multi-mode sensors, including seismic, acoustic imaging and chemical, biological and radiological sensors providing detection, classification and early warning of a presence of radiating materials. U-UGS is designed primarily for operation indoors, obtaining situational pictures in urban setting. Hand emplaced by soldiers or ground robots, the systems enables a small unit to monitor ‘urban choke points’, such as corridors or stairwells, sewers, culverts and tunnels.
Each sensor is equipped with wireless links transmitting target data to the gateway. When deployed, sensors are linked to a gateway system that transmits target data or situational reports back to the user, over the brigade’s wideband data network. In future scenarios, these sensors will provide the outposts for small units, equipped with unmanned systems and precision attack munitions. As UGS will be triggering alerts in the presence of potential threats, other sensors, such as the Honeywell T-Hawk unmanned system (Class I XM156) could be scrambled for a closer look. This backpackable ducted-fan UAV system is powered by a small gasoline engine and is equipped with a small electro-optical payload assembly that can carry a daylight or infrared camera. The T-Hawk can hover over the suspicious target for about half an hour, or perch for longer periods of time from a nearby vantage point. Images from the UAV are monitored by the controller at the infantry squad, and also transmitted over the wideband network to the platoon command post for further action.
a collection of system comprising the T-UGS system. Photo: Defense Update.
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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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Using the two-stage boost-sustain rocket motor and GPS/INS to navigate to the designated target area, PAM can reach targets at a maximum range of 40 km. At close proximity to the target the missile employs automatic target acquisition and terminal guidance system, using the uncooled imaging infrared or semi-active laser seeker, to hit the target with high precision. The PAM can also be directed to hit a specific location, utilizing GPS/INS guidance to navigate to the predefined grid coordinates. The missile is loaded with high explosive shaped charge with fragmentation wrap, defeating armored and soft targets alike. Each Command Launch Unit (CLU) contains 15 ready to fire missiles and one computer and Communications System (CCS) handling the system’s networking and control.
