EADS Unveils Advanced UAV at the Paris Airshow

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Jun 14, 2009

EADS_Advanced_UAV — EADS is unveiling a full scale model of the Advanced UAV that recently completed the Tri-National risk reduction study. Photo: Defense Update.

EADS is unveiling at the Paris Air Show the latest version of the Advanced UAV System. The new UAV is positioned by EADS to fulfill European requirements for High Altitude Intelligence collecting platform, fitted with a wing span 27.9 meters, the UAV will be capable of flying at a maximum altitude of 50,000 ft, on a 24 hour mission. The Advanced UAV will be designed for maximum takeoff weight of seven tons, carrying an external payload of one ton.

In May 2009 and EADS Defence & Security (DS) concluded an 15 months €60 million risk reduction study undertaken with cooperation of France, Germany and Spain, planning for the tri-national Advanced UAV. According to EADS’ Senior Vice President for Mission Air Systems Nicolas Chamussy, “The common understanding between the partners for the joint Advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle for ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance) missions, as described in our study, is another stable pillar of European security.” Nicolas Chamussy is the integrated DS business unit Military Air Systems (MAS). He said the Advanced UAV will incorporate the most modern, modular sensor suite and data links, which are vital for sustainable and reliable ISTAR missions, which contemporary off-the-shelf platforms never can achieve. “The Advanced UAV project, once launched soon, will give our customers operational flexibility, a permanent awareness picture on critical security hot spots home or abroad, and autonomy from third parties’ equipment and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) results”, Chamussy stated.

The configuration displayed on a full-scale model at the Paris Air Show represents the resolution of requirements set by the different partners. The aerial vehicle is powered by two dorsal mounted turbojet engines, clearing the mid-section and belly for carrying mission payloads. The aircraft employs a forward mounted radar, with retractable, large focal plane multi-sensor payload employing large apperture optics. Electronic surveillance probes are grouped at the sides and the tail, where another rear-looking radar is emplaced. COMINT gear is associated with fuselage mounted antennae emplaced in the lower forward section while the upper section is cleared for the satellite communications datalink and avionics.

“For the Risk Reduction Study, which we received in late 2007, a joint team of dedicated engineers from DS in France, Germany and Spain was working very hard to deliver a tailor-made solution satisfying the common needs for an Advanced UAV for the Armed Forces of France, Germany and Spain. The close dialogue with the customers around the Advanced UAV Battle-lab has proved a unmatched tool to harmonize requirements and optimize the solution”, said Chamussy.

EADS’ Advanced UAV team included Thales, which led the radar sub-team Indra in Spain, leading defense electronics activities. The twin-jet propulsion system of the Advanced UAV will not only supply ample on-board energy for the satellite communications, sensors and data links, but also safeguard secure flight conditions in the densely populated skies over Europe”, Chamussy explained.

Given a positive response from the partner nations, EADS expects a development contract worth €1.5 billion by next year. France and Germany could be interested in buying six systems each, with Spain opting for three. Turkey has also expressed interest in the program.

Delilah – The IAF Loitering Missile

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Jun 14, 2009

For over 20 years Delilah was officially defined as a ‘Suppression of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD) powered decoy, but behind the curtain of secrecy, the Israel Air Force and IMI developed an innovative and unique weapon, that has served the IAF well in the past 20 years.

Originally, Delilah and Samson were developed for the IAF as part of an IMI family of SEAD decoys. However, while Samson continued to evolve as a decoy, that became a successful export product, Delilah disappeared from the ‘radar screens’ and kept a very low profile, becoming one of the air force’s top secret programs. Through its transformation, the decoy evolved into a ‘loitering precision attack weapon’, combining the capabilities of an unmanned aerial vehicle and guided missile, capable of attacking enemy targets with unprecedented precision, agility and persistence.

The weapon’s imaging sensors, smart mission-control and two-way datalink, enable ‘human in the loop’ control which, coupled with extended loitering capability, offering Delilah unprecedented combat capabilities. The weapon can be used to accurately and selectively attack a target at it’s weakest points, for example, targeting a protected command center. In this mode, Delilah can be aimed to strike a specific part of the structure, or disable a vital communications link, without destroying the entire target. The weapon’s loitering capability proves an essential feature, when targets are hidden, concealed, or difficult to identify on the first pass, or if the conditions do not match prior assessment. Under such conditions Delilah is commanded to ‘go around’, wait for better conditions or strike the target from a different angle.

Since Delilah entered service with the IAF in the early 1990s, the weapon went through periodical evolution primarily through Block upgrades. The different missiles may look the same, but their capabilities have significantly been improved over the years. The first production models of the Delilah were integrated only in the Israeli F-4E. It was later introduced to the improved Phantom-2000, F-16C/D and, most lately to F-16I (Israeli Block 52) models. Delilah is currently being evaluated by a number of foreign navies, for use as land attack and anti-ship weapon, carried by naval helicopters.

“Delilah is our ‘flagship of weapons’, the most advanced ground attack weapon the IAF has” says Lt. Colonel Gil, head of ordnance branch in the Air Force’s Weapon Systems Division. Primary use of this weapon is the hunting for targets, such as surface missiles and launchers, rocket launching sites, and surface-to-air weapons. Over the years we also introduced an anti-structure warhead to improve our effectiveness against fortified and urban targets.” During the 2nd Lebanon War the air force used ordnance, representing almost every type of weapon in its arsenal. Delilah missiles were also used, hunting of Hezbollah supply trucks. The missiles tracked vehicles carrying rocket loads, crossing from Syria and destroyed them inside Lebanon.” Lt. Col. G admits Delilah is an expensive weapon that cannot be commonly employed, but only selectively, when the target ‘value’ justifies the cost. The IAF continues to evolve the system, into future weapons that will continue and expand the Delilah concept and its capabilities. Furthermore, the IAF recently upgraded the weapon simulator of the Delilah, to reflect the latest capabilities of the weapon.

Unmanned Power Gliders Assume Long Endurance Surveillance Patrols

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Jun 14, 2009

Patroller_UAV — Following the sale of Rafale fighter jets, FREMM frigate and possibly, the Mistral helicopter carrier built for the Russian Navy, France is offering Egypt its latest UAV - the Patroller. Photo: Defense-Update

The French UAV maker Sagem has teamed with German glider producer Stemme AG to introduce the Patroller, a long endurance UAV based on a powered glider. The Stemme S 15 was first presented at the Berlin Air-Show last in 2008. In its current configuration, the Patroller is designed to perform long endurance missions, to be used in a wide spectrum of roles, from military surveillance to homeland security and maritime patrol. The unmanned Patroller will be capable of flying a 20-hour mission carrying a 440-pound payload. The aircraft carries the Euroflir electro-optical sensor payload provided by Sagem of France, and a pod mounted SAR radar provided by the German company OHB, carried underwing. Stemme is also offering an optionally piloted configuration of the drone. These aircraft are controlled through the LAPAZ flight control system and employ the Aerial Real Time Intelligence and Surveillance (ARTIS), both developed by Stemme.

Rafael introduces RecceLite pod for UAV’s

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Jun 12, 2009

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. will release the Recce-U, persistent, unmanned, surveillance and reconnaissance system at the Paris Air Show next week.

Recce-U is a self-contained, multi-sensor ISR system for the UAV platform, based on the RecceLite tactical reconnaissance pod for combat aircraft. Recce-U simultaneously collects high-resolution infrared and visual digital images, day and night, within a very wide field of regard, in accordance with an automatic mission plan and/or manual operation, and transmits the images, which are then viewed and interpreted in real time at the ground exploitation station. The Recce-U system comprises a persistent ISR payload, Ground Data Link Station (GDLS) and Ground Exploitation Station (GES).

The Reccu-U system is revolutionary in that the inertial LOS control enables routine scanning of extremely wide areas irrespective of the UAVs maneuvers and facilitates IED detection as well.

David Stemer, Corporate Vice President, General Manager Missiles & NCW Division, says that “Rafael is proud of its new addition to its electro-optic systems together with the outstanding capabilities of the Recce-U system strengthen the premise that Rafael is indeed a world leader in electro-optic and image processing systems.”

More than Just a Weather Forecast

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Jun 10, 2009

The Critical Role of Accurate Weather Data in UAV Missions / Lee Nelson

Unmanned aircraft are becoming an increasingly important part of defense strategies; helping military personnel respond to a greater demand for improved surveillance and attack operations. These sophisticated unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offer enhanced flexibility, speed, intelligence and a reduced risk of loss of life. The most notorious UAV is the General Atomics Predator, which first was responsible for reconnaissance missions. It later launched missiles at targets in Afghanistan, Iraq and regions of Pakistan. But without a pilot on-board, the success of UAV flights depends heavily on accurate information and reporting.

One crucial type of data for UAV flights is real-time weather information. This information is especially important during take-off and landing, with 84 percent of Predator mishaps occurring during the landing process, according to a large supplier of unmanned aircraft. Real-time weather data is typically gathered from a quick-deployment automatic weather station to support operations. As pilots and military personnel coordinate UAV flights, having information on wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, cloud coverage, thunderstorms and visibility may mean the difference between an effective landing or take-off, and a failed one.

A Closer Look at UAV Operations

As many news sources have recently reported, government intelligence sources consider these UAVs to be one of their most effective weapons against Al Qaeda. The demand for UAVs is increasing, according to the Department of Defense (DOD). In 2003, when the United States invaded Iraq, the DOD planned to increase its UAV inventory to about 350 by 2010, however this number has already been achieved. The Army has about 250 Shadow UAVs, followed by the Air Force with about 110 Predators and 30 Reapers. Small UAVs, sizing only a few feet, are also an effective tool in battlefield surveillance platforms.

Strategic UAVs are often operated remotely with pilots manning the controls in Nevada while the aircraft is based in the Middle East. These pilots rely on accurate information and real-time data to accomplish successful missions. As the New York Times recently noted, Predators and the Air Force’s Reapers are now flying 34 surveillance patrols each day in Iraq and Afghanistan, up from 12 in 2006. They are also transmitting 16,000 hours of video each month, some of it directly to troops on the ground.

The UAV technology is advancing rapidly but is yet to be perfected, however, as Air Force officials acknowledge that more than a third of their unmanned Predator spy planes have crashed. Of these Predator crashes, 55 were lost because of weather conditions, equipment failure or operator errors. With price tags averaging around $4.5 million for the 27-foot Predator, maintaining these valuable pieces of equipment is important in achieving our national defense objectives.

Weather: Direct Impact on UAVs

As with traditional defense aviation, accurate and timely weather data allows UAV pilots to make informed decisions. However, UAVs are more susceptible to weather conditions, according to a 2005 report from the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO). According to the GAO, weather and environmental constraints, including dust and sand storms, limit UAV operations. For example, Marine Corps UAVs have been kept from performing certain missions as a result of dust storms. Having accurate weather reporting enables ground personnel to make the best decisions for UAV flights.

UAV pilots use accurate weather information to plan and execute effective fuel management, diversions and alternate route planning. Information on wind speed and direction, cloud ceiling, visibility, precipitation, humidity and temperature is crucial for flight plan preparation and execution. Many unmanned aircraft often fly at lower altitudes, causing them to be directly affected by the weather.

Effective communication between military personnel in the field and back home can be the key to a successful UAV mission. It is important to use technology that is designed specifically to meet the demands of defense communication in the field, which means equipment that is rugged, versatile and easily assembled in a variety of defense situations. Although situations may vary based on the time of year, region and purpose of the mission, there are a few basic principals of weather measurement to keep in mind for each phase of a UAV flight.

Take-Off

During a UAV take-off it is essential that pilots have accurate, on-demand reporting of wind-speed and direction, atmospheric pressure, humidity and visibility in the take-off area. Additionally, reporting of cloud cover and precipitation can help pilots determine if conditions are favorable for a safe take-off. Depending on the climate, extreme weather during take-off conditions, such as rain, snow and dust storms can inhibit the course of a UAV. Real-time weather data acts as the eyes and ears of a pilot responsible for a plane remotely.

In-Flight

As mentioned, many UAVs often fly at lower altitudes, so they are directly affected by the weather. Accurate information about such phenomena as precipitation, cloud height and depth, and humidity can help pilots make decisions about route planning and alterations, as well as fuel management. Unlike traditional aircraft, a pilot for a UAV cannot glance out the window to check the condition of the plane during flight. A common problem for UAVs, especially during longer flights, is ice accumulation on the wings and body of the vehicle. Pilots and weather officers can use real-time reporting as well as model forecast data to determine the safety of a UAV based on current and future weather conditions.

Safe Landing

In preparation for a landing, pilots need accurate information on wind speed and direction (especially runway cross-winds), atmospheric pressure, temperature and humidity (used to calculate density altitude), and precipitation in the landing area. Hazardous weather conditions, such as freezing rain and thunderstorms, may be detrimental to a UAV landing if pilots are misinformed. Thunderstorm data measured by tactical lightning detectors indicate the presence of lightning strikes in the area. With accurate weather reporting, weather officers and pilots can determine which approach can be used, and even in some cases whether an approach should be attempted or an alternate landing base is required.

Accurate Weather Information a Best Practice

Similar to the best practices of traditional defense aviation, accurate and real-time weather information is mission critical. Whether a UAV mission is tactical and centered on information-gathering, or defense and attack initiatives or a strategic reconnaissance mission, UAVs’ role in the Department of Defense is increasing. As the demand for UAVs grows, so will the need for on-demand weather information, such as wind speed and direction, ceiling, visibility, atmospheric pressure, and present weather (i.e. rain, snow, thunderstorms, etc.). This crucial weather intelligence will improve UAV safety in take-off, flight and landing, and assist defense missions in achieving objectives.

About the Author:

Lee Nelson is New Applications Manager for the Vaisala Defense Segment. He is a retired United States Air Force Weather Officer. He can be reached at [email protected]. Vaisala is a global leader in environmental and industrial measurement. Building on more than 70 years of experience, Vaisala contributes to a better quality of life by providing a comprehensive range of innovative observation and measurement products and services for meteorology, weather critical operations and controlled environments. Headquartered in Finland, Vaisala employs over 1200 professionals worldwide and is listed on the NASDAQ OMX Helsinki. www.vaisala.com

IDF Approves Acquisition of IMI’s Iron Fist Active protection Systems for Namer AIFVs

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Jun 9, 2009

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). Maj. General Dan Harel, IDF 2nd in Command has approved the acquisition of IMI ‘Iron Fist’ APS for the Namer AIFVs, parallel to the continued acquisition of Aspro-A (Trophy) systems for the Merkava 4 tanks. Currently in advanced developmental phase, Iron Fist is expected to provide multi-level protection against anti-tank threats, from short range tandem-warhead rockets that demonstrated their ability to defeat reactive armor, to sophisticated, heavy guided missiles such as the Kornet, employed by the Hezbollah during the 2006 2nd Lebanon War. The system has also been designed to counter tank fired (kinetic) threats. Each Iron-Fist system employs two turrets, containing two launch tubes firing the interceptor projectile (shown above, near an RPG rocket used for test firing) and several types of sensors, covering 360 degrees. The system can also include various countermeasures, which could attempt to engage threats at extended range with ‘soft kill’, saving ‘hard kill’ means as the last line of defense. By utilizing soft launch techniques, firing loads generated by the Iron Fist are reducing potential adverse effect on the platform’s mobility or fire accuracy.

Meanwhile, operational testing continue with Merkava 4 tanks fitted with Rafael’s Trophy APS. The IDF is expected to announce the system ‘operational ready’ upon the completion of this final Technology Readiness Level (TRL) testing. The test includes the deployment of Aspro-A equipped tanks with unit-level training exercises, evaluating the handling and integration of the systems by combat crews and their integration with operational tanks. Further systems are deployed with the Israeli Armor Center, where tactical concepts of operations (CONOPS) are developed by the Armor School. According to initial reports, the systems are performing well under field conditions. All IDF Merkava Mk4 tanks produced in recent months are being prepared for installation of the Aspro-A, making field deployment of the system, once it officially declared ‘operational capable’. For the initial phase the IDF has considered to outfit a complete Merkava Mk4 tank brigade with the system, and possibility to mount yet another type of ADS the new Namer Armored Infantry Fighting Vehicle (AIFV), derived from the Merkava platform, which is also in production. However, prevailing budget cuts could lead the military to delay the schedules of certain systems, as air power, armor, counter rocket, artillery and mortars defenses (C-RAM) and strategic missile defense compete for MoD funding priorities.

trophy_ot_3 — A close-up showing the installation of the Trophy on the side of the Merkava 4 tank. The system employs a blast deflector to protect, similar to the screed installed on the Project Sherif Stryker. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update.

Steadicopter Introduces Black Eagle 50 – Lightweight Unmanned Helicopter

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Jun 3, 2009

The Israeli company Steadicopter has introduced a lightweight, unmanned rotorcraft designed for surveillance and security applications for military and commercial use. The new helicopter employs a proprietary flight control system enabling fully autonomous operation and use by untrained operators. It will use a new and lightweight multi-sensor payload developed by TopiVision. The company is also working on a larger ‘Black Eagle 60’ that will be capable of carrying a 10kg payload flying 4 hour missions.

The Black Eagle 50 can be used as a flying, robotic observation system for civilian and military applications. The system comprises two helicopters, a communications module maintaining video data-link between the airborne helicopter and the ground control station. The nominal datalink range is 10 kilometers. This distance can be extended up to 150 km, using more powerful gear and directional antennae. The 35kg Black Eagle 50 is designed to carry payloads of up to 3 kg on a three-hour mission. Powered by a 116cc water-cooled engine the Black Eagle 50 can sustain an air speed up to 70 knots (126 km/h) and cruise at 47 knots (85 km/h). It can operate at altitudes up to 9,000 ft, take off and land at winds of 25 knots (45 km/h). At present, the helicopter carries the TopiVision Lev-6 multi-sensor gyro-stabilized sensor payload weighing only 1.5 kg, thus leaving adequate space and weight for additional mission systems. Each helicopter is equipped with the Lev-6 gyro-stabilized, day and night multi-sensor payload weighing only 1.5 kilograms. On the mission the Black eagle flies fully autonomously while the operator controls the payload’s line of sight and footprint from his console. If required, the helicopter can be controlled via the emergency command uplink.

The Israeli company Steadicopter, specializing in the design and development of unmanned rotary-wing platforms has developed a small unmanned rotorcraft employing a proprietary flight control System based on a patent registered by the company’s founders. Established in 1999 as a Technion entrepreneurial incubator company, Steadicopter began its way as a developer of automatic flight control for helicopters. The company also applied this know-how to offer stabilization and controlling of unmanned rotorcraft, applicable for any helicopter of all sizes. The company launched its first unmanned robotic helicopter (RUAV) demonstrator in 2004, demonstrating fully autonomous, vertical take-off, flight between waypoints and landing. In recent years the company developed a complete Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) platform, designated ‘Black Eagle’, introducing a robust helicopter design, controlled by a flight computer, mission computer and ground control system all developed and produced by Steadicopter. For large platforms Steadicopter has developed a conversion kit, suitable for large helicopters. This kit converts a manned helicopter to an unmanned helicopter.

Is Pyongyang’s Nuclear Brinkmanship a Tightrope-Walk or safety Net?

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David Eshel

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May 30, 2009

Notwithstanding statements by the Pentagon’s top brass to the contrary, it looks like the intelligence communities of the United States, Japan, and South Korea were once again caught off guard by last week’s North Korean subterranean nuclear test. As if not enough, Pyongyang rattled its neighbors again on Friday, when it fired short-range missiles off its east coast, the sixth such, since the secretive country conducted its underground nuclear test. So not surprisingly, North Korea’s recent nuclear test and belligerent talk has put global spotlight on the Korean Peninsula.

“Our goal is complete and verifiable denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula, and we will not accept North Korea as a nuclear state,” US Defense Secretary Robert Gates told a high-level security forum in Singapore on Saturday. But Pyongyang seems not to be too impressed by Gates’ warning declaration, as spy satellites have already spotted signs that North Korea may be preparing to transport by rail an inter-continental ballistic missile (ICMB) from the Saneum Weapons Research Center near Pyongyang, to the east-coast missile test center, South Korean officials revealed on Saturday.

Pyongyang had already said Wednesday it was no longer bound by the armistice and threatened attacks on South Korea, after Seoul announced it had joined a US-led initiative to halt the trade in weapons of mass destruction. Accordingly, the joint command for South Korean and U.S. forces on the Korean Peninsula raised its alert Thursday to the second-highest level, “Watch Condition II” in response to the extraordinary week of truculence from North Korea.

Matters are certainly heating up. Rumors are spreading that North Korea may be preparing for possible missile or artillery strikes near the disputed western sea border, the Seoul-based daily Chosun Ilbo reported Thursday. The regime of Kim Jong Il, ignoring global outrage over its nuclear tests, said it could no longer guarantee the safety of United States and South Korean ships off its west coast. The North’s anger was provoked by the South’s decision to join a US-led international security initiative, which provides for the stopping of vessels to ensure that they are not carrying weapons of mass destruction, or components to make them. Pyongyang also warned it would no longer respect the 1953 de facto border DMZ at Panmunjom. Is the Korean peninsula veering back towards a state of war after six decades of instable peace?

However, in Seoul there seems to be surprising calm among businessmen, reflecting how accustomed South Koreans have become to threats from North Korea. It also highlights the perception gap that exists with the West. Many in South Korea and other countries in the region believe that the North is just as eager to avoid a full-scale military confrontation as everyone else despite its hostile rhetoric. It seems that, like in the Middle East, the clocks go different in South East Asia as well!

But in spite of Seoul’s signaling serenity, US President Barack Obama’s visible paralysis of leadership may lead to further global instability and nuclear proliferation. On the other end of Asia, Iran continues unfettered in the development of nuclear weapon grade uranium and improving their missile technology. In Obama’s own hemisphere, Hugo Chavez’ Venezuela is inviting potentially nuclear armed bombers and ships from Russia to be based there. President Obama’s promise about “bringing global stability and building strong alliances with other cardinal powers in the world seems to be running on rocks.

Nations that once thought the United States would protect them with a nuclear umbrella now see their protector evolving into the “paper tiger”. Without a determined response on the growing threats of North Korea and Iran, soon then things will only spiral further out of control. What makes the US policymakers’ strategic choice even more difficult now is that Mr Kim has abandoned any pretence his regime ever intends to shut down its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs.

US Secretary Gates is pinning all his hopes for restraining Pyongyang on China to solve the deterring situation on the Korean Peninsula. But it is highly questionable whether Beijing will play according to the Pentagon’s expectations. Beijing’s most pressing interest appears to be ensuring an approaching North Korean leadership transition does not degenerate into internal breakdown, with potentially severe consequences for Chinese border regions. In particular, Chinese officials are concerned that rapid and unexpected changes within North Korea could trigger a flood of refugees crossing the border into China creating a potential humanitarian crisis and threatening social stability in a large Chinese region. China shares an 880-mile border with North Korea.

The same fear haunts South Korean leaders. They realize that the North Korean masses are suffering unspeakable deprivation – during the 1990s hundreds of thousands died of famine and disease – while resources are directed to the military-industrial complex and propaganda. A cloying personality cult has transformed the leader into a deity, while xenophobia and racial supremacy lead people to fear change. Should the leadership in Pyongyang collapse, anything can happen. First, millions of people will rush into China’s northeast as refugees. An estimated 250,000 North Korean refugees already move back and forth between the two countries every year. Second, hundreds of thousands starving Koreans will overwhelm South Korea, which within hours will be swamped by a human Tsunami. The sudden, forced reunification of the peninsula would saddle the modern, affluent South with incredible logistical problems – foremost among them how to feed a backward, impoverished population and integrate it into their hyper-modern society.

“This is going to be a big challenge over the course of this administration,” says Michael Green, who was in charge of Asian affairs for the National Security Council (NSC) during the Bush administration. “There’s not a list of good options”. “We’re talking about a country with over a million brainwashed soldiers, enough nuclear fissile material for six to 10 bombs, chemical and biological weapons. And if it becomes unstable or starts unraveling, it’s not a crisis you can manage part time,” says Green, who is now a professor at Georgetown University.

Past attempts to negotiate with the North Korean regime have fallen into a frustrating pattern in which landmark deals are seemingly reached, only to fall apart soon thereafter – often with no logical explanation. Kim’s regime sees the nuclear program as its best bargaining chip to ensure its long-term survival. There may be little the international community can do to deter the North, which has been punished for years by sanctions and is so poor it relies on aid to feed its 23 million people. The challenge which President Obama is facing these days is immense – will he be able to cope with it?

Korean Songun*

A look at th North Korean Missile Arsenal:

ADVANCED TAEPODONG-2:
still under development, the potential range of this missile is about 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers), putting the U.S. west coast, Hawaii, Australia and Eastern Europe within striking distance.

TAEPODONG-2:
A three-stage missile with potential range of more than 4,100 miles (6,700 kilometers) is currently putting Alaska within striking distance. The first two stages of the missile are liquid-fueled, while the third is believed to be solid-fueled. TAEPODONG-2 is believed to be similar to Iran’s Safir space launch vehicle, as the later was developed under cooperation between the two nations. The latest Taepodong-2 rocket launch occurred in April, with the missile landing in the ocean about 2,300 miles from its launch pad.

TAEPODONG-1:
This is a two-stage liquid fueled missile with an estimated range of 1,550 miles (2,500 kilometers). This missile has demonstrated the North Korean capability to reach Japan with meaningful striking power. North Korea is believed to be developing a new mobile. Ground launched missile with a range of 1,800 miles (3,000 kilometers). Based on the Russian submarine launched SS-N-6 missile.

RODONG:
a locally developed outgrowth of the SCUD design, which also provided the basis for Iran’s Shahab 3 and Pakistan’s Ghauri II missiles, Rodong has an estimated range of 620 to 930 miles (1,000 to 1,500 kilometers) and maximum payload of 2,200 pounds (1,000 kilograms). It is capable of striking all the South Korean area and most of the Japanese mainland.Rodong is powered by a liquid fueled propulsion system in both stages.

SCUD:
A single stage, liquid-fueled missile with a range of up to 500 miles (800 kilometers), known in North Korea by the name Hwasong. The SCUD B and SCUD C have relatively short range threatening South Korea, while the SCUD D could target Japan.

* Songun – the Korean ‘Military Fist’, is the buzzword PyongYang is using to praise its military might, ‘for the deterrence of potential aggressors’.

General Dynamics, Rafael to Replace the Strykers’ SLAT Protection Cages with Reactive Armor

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May 27, 2009

General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products (GD-ATP) will provide reactive armor tile sets for the U.S. Army Stryker family of vehicles. The $150 million contract is scheduled for delivery within 10 months, by March 2010. Reactive armor system comprises tiles that fasten to the exterior of the Stryker family of vehicles, allowing it to better withstand hits from a variety of anti-armor munitions, primarily RPGs. The reactive armor kit will replace the Slat armor currently used with Strykers in theater. While providing effective defense against RPGs, Slat offers ‘statistical’ protection rather than an assured defeat of the projectile. Furthermore, the kit, designed by Rafael, can be tailored to address a wide range of threats, utilizing the ‘hybrid protection’ approach. The reactive armor solutions currently offered by Rafael are presenting enhanced capabilities over the tiles employed on previous systems, including improved effectiveness, protection against a wider range of threats and increased safety, utilizing insensitive sheet explosives activated only when triggered by shaped charges.

stryker_ausa08 — RAFAEL displayed its Aspro H hybrid reactive armor solution applied to a General Dynamics Land Systems upgraded Stryker vehicle, at the AUSA 2008 exhibition in Washington DC. Photo: Defense Update

The recent contract represents one of the largest reactive armor-upgrades planned in recent years. As such it was fiercely competed between two of the leading armor providers – GD-ATP and BAE Systems. The original developer and designer of these reactive armor systems is Rafael Armament Development Authority from Israel. The Stryker add-on armor is the second reactive armor program GD-ATP is jointly conducting with Rafael. The two companies are also cooperating on the supply of reactive armor systems for the M-2 Bradley, for which the team has won repeated orders worth hundreds of million US$. Two years ago GD-ATP also competed with its own reactive armor solution, and won another program, for the delivery of reactive armor kits for the M-1A1/A2 Abrams tanks. However, the company did not win follow-on orders after the first contract. The prime contractor for the Stryker vehicle is General Dynamics Land Systems.

Production of the armor kits will be performed at the General Dynamics’ facility in Camden, Arkansas, and will create 20 new jobs at the Camden facility in January 2010. Program management will take place in General Dynamics’ Burlington Technology Center in Vermont. As a strategic partner, RAFAEL Armament Development Authority Ltd., Ordnance Systems Division, will share the production workload in Haifa, Israel.

Above: Reactive tiles kits developed by Rafael for the General Dynamics Land Systems Stryker vehicle are providing improved protection to the hull, at weight levels comparable to the Slat kits. However, the use of reactive armor offers better protection, improved stability and maneuverability, compared to the much wider Slat. Below: For Strykers remaining with the Slat armor, GDLS is offering an expanded skirt protecting the lower hull and wheels. Photos: Defense Update

Israel, U.S. to Embark on Collaborative ‘Upper-Tier’ Missile Intercept Program to include Arrow 3 and Land-Based SM-3 Missiles

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May 24, 2009

The United States and Israel have initiated development of an upper-tier component to the Israeli Missile Defense architecture, commonly known as ‘Arrow 3’. The development is based on an architecture definition study conducted in 2006-2007, determining the need for the upper-tier component to be integrated into Israel’s Ballistic Missile Defense system. According to Arieh Herzog, Director of Israel’s Missile Defense Program, the main element of this upper tier will be an exo-atmospheric interceptor, to be jointly developed by Israel Aerospace Industries, (IAI) and Boeing.

A recent analysis by U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) assessing the proposed Israeli upper-tier alternatives including Arrow 3 and the planned land-based SM-3, determined that the Arrow 3 alternative may have a reduced life cycle cost and potentially, offer better performance to meet Israel’s requirements, confirmed Lieutenant General Patrick J. O’Reilly, Director of the MDA. “The design of Arrow 3 promisses to be an extremely capable system, mor advanced than what we have ever attempted in the U.S. with our programs” Gen. O’Reilly told the U.S. House of Representatives Armed Services subcommitee for strategic forces. “This has to do with the seekers that have greater flexibility and other aspects, such as propulsion systems- it will be an extremely capable system” he said.

However, General O’Reilly expressed concern about the schedule proposed by the Israelis, “we don’t say they (Israel) can’t do it, we are very supportive of that program, but we are concerned about the schedule they proposed” said Gen. O’Reilly. MDA director said his main concern is the high risk level associated with missile developments, hence, meeting all the program’s goals on the tight schedule proposed by Israel is unlikely. O’Reilly confirmed the agency proposed funding the Israeli upper tier project at a level consistent with historically authorized and appropriated funding levels. To mitigate the Arrow 3 development schedule risk, the U.S. will develop and prepare to deploy a land-based variant of the proven Aegis SM-3 missile to be able to meet Israel’s upper tier requirements.

What Makes the Israeli Technology Unique?

What are the new technologies that make the Israeli technologies so unique to get such high appraisals from the MDA director? Defense Update has tracked a system described by Dr. Joseph Hasson, chief missile designer at IAI MLM division, presented at a missile defense conference in 2008 and repeated this week in Israel. The presentation provided a hint about the potential paradigm shift for Exo-Atmospheric KV design, employing existing technologies, with simplicity and efficiencies yet unachievable with space vehicles. The new exo-atmospheric Kill Vehicle (KV) was claimed as a patent by Dr. Hasson and Dr. Galya Goldner from IAI MLM, both missile architects at IAI MLM division, which will also develop the Arrow 3.

The IAI team proposed a kill vehicle offering exceptionally large divert capability, meaning the kill vehicle will have exceptional capability to maneuver in space, close-in on a target with high probability of kill, at realistic (very high) closing speeds. Unlike common KVs utilizing space propulsion systems (such as liquid propellant or gas generators), the proposed KV will be propelled by an ordinary rocket motor, equipped with flexible nozzle (vector-thrust). Furthermore, this unique KV will also be fitted with a gimbaled seeker, obtaining hemispheric coverage for the seeker. By measuring the seeker’s line of sight relative to the vehicle’s motion, the kill vehicle would employ ‘proportional navigation’ deflecting the kill vehicle to divert its course and align exactly at target’s fight path, hence achieving an accurate kill even at very high closing speeds and over long distances. Dr. Hasson claims the new concept is relatively simple, reliable and inexpensive and is based on mature technologies. Furthermore, its large divert capability and high agility are contributing to easing the requirements for detection and tracking systems, generally associated with remote-sensor assisted exoatmospheric kills.

Another presentation, by Dr. Idan Paiss, also from IAI MLM, discussed imaging systems in the visible, for ballistic missile interceptors. Dr. Paiss argued that a combined sensor utilizing visible and infrared elements would be suitable for ballistic missile intercept under all lighting conditions, furthermore, when provided with high density matrixes available today, such sensors could provide both target detection, discrimination and tracking as well as assisting line-of-sight measurement utilizing stars tracking.

The new component will also require the integration of longer range detection, tracking and discrimination capabiity, beyond what the Green Pine and Advanced Green Pine radars, employed with the Arrow 2 are providing. Among the advanced sensors considered for Israel’s future multi-tier system, are airborne electro-optical sensors deployed on high flying UAVs and future enhanced Green Pine radars, as well as the AN/TPY-2 radar already deployed in Israel, and operated by U.S. forces.

During the recent ‘strategic dialog’ meeting in Washington, this week Israel was assured the US will continue to support Israel’s missile defense research and development – despite Israeli concerns that economic pressure would lead to cutbacks in the American funding. The teams, headed by US Undersecretary of Defense Michele Flournoy and Defense Ministry Secretary-General Pinchas Buchris, also discussed a number of additional strategic issues. The US intention is to integrate the support for Israeli programs into the US defense budget.

Increasing Cooperation Between U.S. Israel Missile Defenses

The U.S. Missile Defense Agency is requesting Congress to approve allocation of $120 million in next year’s defense budget for the U.S.-Israeli cooperative missile defense efforts. “The United States and Israel have cooperated on missile defense for over twenty years” Lieutenant General Patrick J. O’Reilly, Director of the Missile Defense Agency said before the House Armed Services Committee Strategic Forces Subcommittee. According to General O’Reilly, U.S.-Israeli collaboration have successfully grown through the years, from early feasibility studies to fully operational fully-operational missile defense architecture that has become fully interoperable with U.S. Ballistic Missile Defense Systems elements. “New joint programs have advanced this cooperation: U.S. and Israeli industrial co-production of Arrow interceptors; the joint Short Range Ballistic Missile Defense Program’s David’s Sling Weapon System; and an initiative to provide Israel an upper-tier defense system.” Said General O’Reilly.

MDA director indicated that significant events planned for this year will demonstrate the combined U.S. -Israeli missile defense capability. Among these are the Enhanced Arrow-2 tested in April 2009, successfully acquiring, tracking, and intercepting a separating target. The test Integrated the Israel based AN/TPY-2 X-Band radar for the first time.

Further integration with U.S. BMDS elements such as the AN/TPY-2, THAAD and Aegis BMD will be performed this summer during the bi-annual ‘Juniper Cobra’ exercise. The ‘David’s Sling’ weapon system developed jointly by Israel MOD and MDA addresses shorter range threats, exceeding the capability of PAC-3 system in certain parts of the envelope.

The first booster fly-out was successfully conducted in February 2009, with additional interceptor fly-outs scheduled later this year. The first intercept test is scheduled to occur in 2010. Additionally, MDA is coordinating with the U.S. Services to identify opportunities for U.S. utilization of the David’s Sling Stunner interceptor.

Massive Construction Visible at Iran’s Missile & Space Center at Semnan

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May 20, 2009

Extensive infrastructure developments are evident in the following satellite imagery, obtained by the Israeli Eros-B satellite. The images are superimposed on an earlier image, available through Google Earth, taken around 2007. Images: Background image, GoogleEarth. Inserts: Imagesat International.

The Safir satellite launcher erected, ready to launch from the active launch pad at Semnan. Photo: Imagesat.

Another new facility at Semnan is the missile integration center, where payloads are fitted to the missile. (such as the Omid satellite launched earlier this year). Photo: Imagesat

East of the active site, the Iranians are constructing a new facility that could be supporting the Iranian solid rocket propulsion development, associated with the Sejjil and Ashura missiles or even larger missiles – according to Jane’s Intelligence analysts, the site could be associated with the next-generation Simorgh rocket. Another site, prepared few kilometers south of the new construction area seems to be abandoned. Photo: Imagesat.

Below: Another image, taken 27 November, 2009 showing the construction progress at the site, with a sizeable gantry tower constructed at the launch site, with an associated launch pad, and fully constructed flame bucket diverting the missile’s exhaust gases from the hillside. The launch site is linked through separate tubing, to a nearby, sheltered underground facility located at the upper left hillside. A new construction located close to the launcher, shown at the lower right side of the picture, could be a protected observation site to be provided with video and recording systems. (Photo: Imagesat)

Jane’s IHT analysis, based on the use of commercial satellite imagery from DigitalGlobe and GeoEye, has confirmed Defense-Update’s findings about this Iranian site. Jane’s analysts suggest the new launch pad is being constructed at Iran’s Semnan space centre to support Iran’s space program, and it is the site from where Tehran will launch its next-generation Simorgh rocket and future satellites.

The images were taken by the new WorldView-2 satellite image on 6 February 2010. Jane’s has reported spotting the site about four kilometres northeast of Iran’s existing launch facility at Semnan. Jane’s analysts also identified the tower object as a gantry tower, and the oblique view provided by the World-View 2 satellite positively confirms this assessment. Jane’s estimated its dimmensions to measure 13 metres wide, approximately 18 – 20 metres tall, with the cliff-side flame bucket nearly as high as the tower itself. Jane’s analysts assume the construction appears midway towards completion. Although the tower is not yet tall enough to facilitate vertical assembly of the 27-metre Simorgh, but analysts expect the launch pad could easily accommodate Iran’s new rocket if the gantry were to be extended by an additional 10 metres.

Photo: Digital Globe via Jane’s IHS.

In addition to this site, IHS Jane’s has observed another facility two and a half kilometers to the southwest; between the new site and the existing one. Although this facility is in early stages of construction, its heavily secured nature and restricted access indicate it is a primary element of the newly constructed complex.

The development of the Semnan facility and the Simorgh SLV both demonstrate the likelihood of collaboration with North Korea in Iran ’s missile programme. The platforms seen on the new gantry tower resemble those seen on the gantry tower at North Korea ’s new launch pad at Tongchang. A drainage pit 170 metres directly in front of the pad also mirrors one at Pyongyang ’s new west-coast launch site. Similarly, the first stage of the Simorgh strongly resembles the North Korean Unha-2, with four clustered engines and nearly the same dimensions.

Iran Tests Second Solid-Fuelled Sejjil Missile, Capable of 2,000 km

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May 20, 2009

December 16, 2009: Iran has successfully tested today an ‘optimized’ version of the solid-fuel Sejjil-2 ballistic missile. The recent test builds on the first successful launch conducted in May 2009 (below). Iran has tested several combinations of propellant compounds to achieve reliable operation. Iranian sources indicate that the current missile has been configured to carry different warheads and uses stealth attributes (‘anti-radar material coating’). The use of solid propellant dramatically reduces pre-launch preparations, enabling the missile to be fired immediately after being erected by the mobile launcher. The Iranians claim the solid-powered Sejill-2 is faster during the powered ascent as well as on reentry, and, therefore, more difficult to intercept. It is also more accurate than the former Shehab.

May 20, 2009: Iran has successfully test-fired a Sejjil-2 medium-range surface-to-surface missile, a solid-fuelled missile developed in Iran (with North Korean assistance). This missile is also known by the names Ghadr-110 and Samen. The missile is capable of striking targets at ranges beyond 2,000 km (1242 miles) carrying a 1.2 ton warhead. Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad confirmed the news on a visit to Iran’s space and missile center at Semnan, from where the missile was launched. US pentagon sources confirmed the launch was successful indicating that according to initial data, the missile profile correlates with the larger Ashura (Ghadr-110) missile, with a range of 2,000 to 3,000 km (1,200-1,900 miles).

Sejjil-2 missile unveiled during Iran’s president visit at Semnan Missile & Space Center. (IRNA images)

Iran began testing large solid-fuelled missiles in 2008. Such missiles are considered more versatile and survivable since they are stored with fuel, ready-to-launch on a moment’s notice offering quick response capability as soon as the Transporter Erector Launchers (TEL) reaches the designated launch spot. Since preparations do not require fuelling the missile, the pre-launch process is quick and difficult to detect, thus, making these missiles much less vulnerable to pre-emptive strike.

Uzi Rubin, the founder of Israel’s missile defense program, assesses Iran will gradually replace its liquid-propelled Shahab missiles with solid-fuelled Sejjil-2 to improve the survivability and agility of their strategic missile forces. Charles P. Vick, Senior Technical Analyst at Globalsecurity.org noted that the external dimensions of the new missile fit in the same logistic envelop as the Shahab-3B, 3C series lands mobile TEL.

Sejjil missiles are covering the entire area of Israel, Saudi-Arabia, Egypt, Turkey and Pakistan, from launch positions in central Iran. Rubin estimates that Iran will be able to extend its missile strike capability to 3,000 km by the end of the decade, with strike capability reaching well into central Europe. Indications of the preparations for a new launch site, much larger than the current launch pad at Shemnan are evident from satellite imagery obtained by Defense Update.

Sejjil-2 carried on a transporter-launcher.

Iran Unveils New Space Launcher

Feb. 3, 2010: Iran has successfully launched a home-produced satellite on the Kavoshgar 3 (Explorer) satellite launcher. The Kavoshgar has already been used for the launch of the first Iranian satellite, the Omid launched a year ago (Feb 2009). The payload on the satellite being launched today included live animals carried in the satellite capsule – a rat, turtles and worms.

The satellite mission included the transmission of life support signals to the ground. Iran is also developing the means to launch heavier satellites into orbit. The heavier satellite launcher dubbed Simorgh will be able to carry a payload of 100-kg into low earth orbit (an altitude of 500 km.) Iran’s space program is considered to provide a coverage for Irans ambitions to develop, test and, eventually field long range and, potentially intercontinental missiles, having the range and payload capacity to carry nuclear warheads to distances extending several thousands of kilometers. Testing of such missiles is not feasible within Iranian controlled territory.

Analysis: Unlike earlier reports hinting at a potential link between Iran and North Korea, the Iranian satellite launcher is not identical to the UNHA 2 developed by North Korea and is believed to be an upgraded version of the Iranian Safir launcher, fitted with an expanded first stage.

The missile comprises two large boosters utilizing the first stage, assessed to be in the diameter of 2,000-2,300 mm based on the Shehab-3B/No-Dong technology, attached to a second stage derived from an extended SAFIR 313, with the diameter of 1,250 mm. The total length of the mammoth missile is 27 meters. Takeoff weight is estimated at 87 tons – 75 tons of the first stage, containing up to 69 tons of liquid fuel. The first stage combines four main thrusters generating 32 tons each, plus verniers collectively generating 143 tons of thrust. The missile is capable of injecting a 100 kg payload into orbit at an altitude of 500 km. Its efficiency is relatively low, and is assumed to be less than 10% of the efficiency of standard satellite launchers.

Based on technical details, Analysts assume that a ballistic missile derivative of Simorgh, although having the potential to deliver a small payload over extended range, is not capable to perform as an intercontinental ballistic missile – as its payload capacity cannot deliver reasonably large reentry vehicle (over 700 kg) to a range of 10,000 km, potentially reaching the U.S.A.

However, Iran is believed to be working on enhanced derivative of the missile, designed to inject up to 700kg payload into orbit, 1,000 km above earth. Such a missile could eventually become a threat to the Continental U.S.A. According to current intelligence assessments, such a missile could be ready within one or two years.

Simorgh Satellite Launcher. Photo: IRNA.

Saab, Swiss UAV Partner to Offer a Combined Family of VTOL UAVs

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May 20, 2009

Saab and Swiss UAV (SUAV) have signed a strategic partnership agreement to introduce cost-efficient vertical take off and landing (VTOL) Unmanned Airborne Systems (UAS). The agreement covers collaboration regarding the design and testing of systems developed by the two companies, including the Skeldar system developed by Saab and the Neo and Koax systems developed by the Swiss company and the integration of Saab’s common ground control system to support all systems.
“We are convinced that the co-operation between Saab and SUAV combined with our joint business effort will be a success for our VTOL systems” said Pontus Kallén, Senior Vice President Saab and Managing Director Saab Aerosystems. “It is a win-win situation for both us and our customers” Kallén added. “This partnership is a strategic landmark in the development of the company.” Lars Zander, CEO of Swiss UAV agrees.

Saab will bring to the marriage the Skeldar UAS system under development in Sweden since 2006. A 200 kg Maximum Take-off weight (MTOW) platform, Skeldar is designed for use in both land and maritime operations carrying payloads and fuel for 4-5 hour missions. In 2008 SUAV has introduced the Neo S-300, at half the weight of the Skeldar (75kg) it is capable of carrying a payload weight of 20 kg plus 32 litres of fuel supporting mission duration of 150 minutes. Neo was designed for security and surveillance missions such as pipeline monitoring. The smallest UAV introduced by SUAV is the 45 kg Koax X-240, designed primarily for security and force protection missions is a more compact platform, capable of flying missions of up to 90 minutes with a payload weighing up to 8 kg. Koax made its first flight earlier this year. These vehicles are smaller then Skeldar but still operate with an advanced autonomy system, ideal for compact land operations.

The two companies have already began flight trials in Switzerland with all three systems, exploring and verifying autonomous behavior and system capabilities. According to Kallén, the combined family of vehicles will be integrated with Saab’s Ground Control Station know-how. “At the same time SUAV will support Saab activities in development and there are already some specific projects underway” Kallén added.

The Neo VTOL-UAV developed by SUAV. Photo: SUAV

Pentagon Considers Terminating the Army’s FCS Program

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May 18, 2009

According to the news agency Reuters, quoting the Pentagon chief arms buyer Ashton Carter today, the U.S. Army’s $160 billion Future Combat Systems (FCS) modernization program was ending, not just the $87 billion manned ground vehicle segment previously announced by Defense Secretary Robert D. Gates. The Army intends to split the FCS program into three orders, addressing the vehicles, software applications, and technology upgrades, to be introduced throughout the Army’s combat brigades.

The Army intends to split the FCS program into three orders, addressing the vehicles, software applications, and technology upgrades, to be introduced through all Army combat brigades. Re-evaluating the future role of armored systems succeeding the cancelled Manned Ground Vehicle (MGV) the Army plans to launch yet another, yet undefined ‘Ground Combat Vehicle’ program. The new vehicle will be further defined around the fall this year, after the Pentagon and FCS Lead Systems Integrators Boeing and SAIC conclude discussions on the FCS contract terms and MGV termination fees, particularly regarding the role and compensation for the MGV subcontractors – BAE Systems and General Dynamics. Wheeled armored vehicles are considered a contender for the future ground combat vehicle.

The near-term modernization phases formerly known as the ‘spinout’ are most likely to continue as part of the restructured programs to be collectively addressed as ‘Army Brigade Combat Team Modernization (ABCTM)’. The development of a new battle command and integrated, common system of systems (SOSCOE) will also continue, as well as some of the weapon systems destined for the FCS program. Among the FCS related systems being scheduled for near-term fielding are the Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS) and the Precision Attack Missile, various unattended ground sensors, a lightweight unmanned ground vehicle (SUGV) and the T-Hawk ‘Class I’ UAV. With the restructuring of the program, Army officials are expecting delays fielding the Spinouts, to late 2011 and beyond.

The future role of the FCS lead system integrator team, Boeing Co (NYSE:BA) and Science Applications International Corp (NYSE:SAI) is currently under evaluation. Re-evaluation of the future role of armored systems, including the recently cancelled Manned Ground Vehicle (MGV) and potential introduction of a new wheeled ground combat vehicle is due in September 2009.

Defense-UpdateMilitary Technology & Defense News

Defense-UpdateMilitary Technology & Defense News

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Photo: Digital Globe via Jane’s IHS.

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