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    Multiple-Input/Multiple-Output (MIMO) Mobile Ad-Hoc Wireless Networks

    Evolving Mobile Network concept known as Multiple -Input/Multiple – Output (MIMO) have the potential to increase communications data rates by 10-20 times above current systems. Such systems will use multi-path reflections to create parallel channels in the same frequency band, thereby increasing spectral efficiency.

    MIMO networks are studied under a DARPA program, have the potential to dramatically improve communications in urban and other Non-Line-of-Sight multi-path conditions, where conventional techniques are degraded. MIMO technologies could be employed in future mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) and is considered to be integrated as a wideband communications adapter in the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) cluster.

    A family of new ultra wideband (UWB) devices is also considered for improving communications in extremely harsh environments. Applications could offer highly accurate ranging and passive radar. Among the program’s developments is a Tactical Voice/Data Radio (TVDR) with Multilateral Geolocation Ranging, a Low Bit Rate Sensor Network with highly accurate geolocation. Development of an ad-hoc networking and multiple access protocols to take advantage of the unique properties of UWB and the integration of UWB communications for sensors systems.

    SLAM-ER Guided Missile

    SLAM is a spin-off from the radar-guided air-launched Harpoon anti-ship missile. The SLAM-ER is an upgrade of the original missile. SLAM-ER uses GPS midcourse and IR terminal guidance to strike at surface targets with high precision. The missile is offered as a new production or retrofit kits for existing SLAM missiles which are operational with the US Navy since 1988. SLAM ER entered US Navy service in 2000. The retrofit upgrades include planar wings to improve range and aerodynamic performance; an improved warhead to increase penetration and lethality against hardened targets; and software improvements making it easier for the control aircraft to select the precise hit-point on the target. The missile is equipped with a 500 pound derivative of the Tomahawk Block III warhead developed by the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, China Lake, Calif. The WDU-40/B warhead uses a titanium case shaped specifically to increase penetration and becomes reactive during detonation, substantially increasing the blast and incendiary effects.

    SLAM ER achieved an early operational capability in the summer of 1999 and is currently deployed on several aircraft carriers with F/A-18, P-3 and S-3 aircraft. Boeing is currently under contract with the U.S. Navy to produce 346 SLAM-ERs, beyond 2004. Approximately 700 SLAM missiles in the U.S. Navy arsenal will be retrofitted with the SLAM-ER upgrade. South Korea will buy SLAM-ER under a $70 million contract, for its new F-15K multi-role fighter aircraft.


    SLAM-ER provides surgical strike capability against high-value, fixed land targets, ships in port, or at sea. Designed for deployment from carrier-based and land-based aircraft, SLAM-ER can also be adapted for ship launch. The missiles is launched from a distance beyond 150 nautical miles, and flies a subsonic flight, navigating by INS/GPS navigation system. The missile can also receive in-flight target position updates on its midcourse flight, to enable effective engagement of moving targets such as surface ships at sea. Several miles from the target, on the terminal phase of the flight, the SLAM-ER activates its imaging infrared sensor. Images are processed by the Automatic Target Acquisition (ATA) processor. The missile’s image processor use pattern-matching algorithms to compare the target scene with on-board reference images to automatically locate the pre-planned aimpoint in the target scene. The Weapon System Operator or pilot can then designate a specific aimpoint to be attacked, or verify the decision taken by the missile. To provide faster, clear image transfer over narrow-band datalink, the system utilizes a special Stop Motion Aimpoint Update which can be viewed on the F/A-18 multifunction display console in the launch aircraft or any other aircraft equipped with compatible datalink, to provide near-real time battle damage assessment.

    One of the unique features introduced with the SLAM ER software modifications update was In-Flight Flex-Targeting capability which enables effective retargeting of the missile after launch. In Operation Iraqi Freedom, SLAM-ER’s video link provided valuable bomb damage assessment to the mission planners. SLAM-ER pilots not only identified the true locations, they re-targeted the missiles using aimpoint refinement alone to hit those targets. This capability is facilitated by using streaming midcourse updates from F/A-18 Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) using existing network rates and targeting sources, such as JSTARS and UAVs.

    SLAM ER’s anti-ship performance is critical for achieving dominant control in the littorals. The littoral, defined as the waterways 100 miles off the coastline and 50 miles inland, is one of the U.S. Navy’s most complex and challenging environments in which to operate effectively. Future joint military operations are based on the U.S. Navy’s fundamental and dominant control of the littorals, which are typified by areas of heavily trafficked commercial sea-lanes, shallow depths and irregular landmasses such as inlets, rivers, islands and harbors. Dominance of this area is essential to providing protected access to the theater for arriving forces, seizing or establishing shore bases and providing command and control for immediate operations.

    Up Armored HUMVEE (Hummer)

    AM General (USA) / Plasan Sasa (Israel)

    The new armor protection suit, designed by Plasan Sasa for the Greek up-armored Humvee (Hummer) provides level II protection armor, including mine protection (up to 3.5kg explosives under any wheel.) The new suit retains the Humvee’s tactical agility and cross country mobility, enabling the vehicle to carry 1.3 tons of payload in addition to the crew and their gear. The vehicle is fitted with multiple access doors and sufficient open space to enable maximum utilization of available and protected space. It is also fitted with a new low profile hatch attached to the a standard machine gun ring mount.

    A new model of a protected hummer, designed for six passengers is currently under development at Plasan. This version is designed to respond an IDF requirement and will be equipped with a 1.326 ton armor suite. It will be higher than current Humvees, and will be installed with a semi-protected firing position which could be substituted with a remotely controlled weapon station. The total weight of the vehicle will be 5,496 kg, (permissible weight for the vehicle is 5.5 tons).

    The current IDF protected hummers, which were also produced by Plasan, weigh 5.216 tons. Due to budgetary constraints, the IDF is currently procuring these protected Hummers from O’Gara Inc., in the USA.

    Skylite Miniature Aerial vehicle

    The Skylite is designed as an organic imaging intelligence collection system for combat elements, providing real-time, “over the hill” intelligence and force protection coverage for deployed tactical units, up to battalion level, including special-forces, dismounted infantry, and mechanized or armored formations. Skylite is designed for combat support missions, providing real-time intelligence and force protection for combat formations.


    The system offers unique advantages in urban terrain (MOUT) where a team of two operators can carry two ready to launch MAVs and a control station. The Skylite offers flexible, unrestricted launch envelope, including firing from within bunkers, closed rooms, rooftops or narrow streets. Skylite can fly a mission of 60 – 90 minutes, with a mission radius of 5,000 – 10,000 meters. The Skylite maintains a relatively high speed, to withstand gusts and high crosswinds, and operate in difficult weather conditions. The fuselage is a 110 cm long, 12cm diameter tube, with a forward looking EO payload mounted at the nose. Following launch, the Skylite’s wings (1.5m wingspan) and cruciform tail snap into flight position, powered by electrical motors. The retrievable drone is equipped with a stabilized camera that provides wide area coverage and point-of-interest monitoring. The Skylite is designed for simple operation at the tactical field level of infantry, mechanized and armor units. It does not require any specialized support, coordination with air control or communications facilities. Skylite is stored in a lightweight container (2 kg) which also provides a launcher for the MAV. The gross weight of the MAV is 6 kg. All pre-launch settings are performed automatically and do not require any operator involvement. The reusable MAV is handled as a “wooden round”, and requires zero logistics for storage or operation. At the end of the mission it is retrieved automatically into a net, and is being reconditioned and repacked into the launchers at the battalion level.

    Handled as a maintenance free “wooden round”, the system requires “zero time to launch” – without any assembly or pre-launch preparations. It is launched from a lightweight, man portable canister which uses a small rocket booster to accelerate the MAV to its cruising speed and altitude. This method enables an automatic launch of the MAV by remote control, from within a tank or APC, or manually deployment as a “shoulder fired missile”, from enclosed spaces such as rooms, bunkers and from narrow streets in crowded urban settings. The boosted launch accelerates the Skylite to its cruise speed and therefore overcomes difficult launch conditions, and high crosswind, thus enabling the forward troops a dependable and reliable visibility “around the corner”.

    The Skylite is an autonomous vehicle, which follows a pre-preplanned flight program or a loitering pattern, when it waits for new tasking orders. The mission plan is designated by the user on a laptop, where points of interest are pointed on a digital map or aerial photo. The Skylite follows these points of interest and can maintain constant view of specific point of interest from various viewing angles or from a specific direction. The operator can also control the gimbaled payload, to focus on specific points of interest. The payload can employ a color camera, night camera or lightweight infrared camera. It is designed to detect, identify and track targets at a size of an armed human, from a range of 100 – 300 meters. The images received from the Skylite can be displayed on the laptop, or relayed to forward commanders and displayed on their palmtop PCs.

    Hybrid Electric Drives (HED) For Armored Fighting vehicles

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    A first hybrid-electric tracked armored vehicle developed by the U.S. Army’s National Automotive Center and BAE Systems (formerly United Defense) was the hybrid-drive 15-ton M-113 prototype. The vehicle’s battery power was used to provide transient power needs, on acceleration, steering and climbing. When stationary, the vehicle can generate about 200 kilowatts of electricity and function as an auxiliary power unit.

    Relative to conventionally powered M113A3 the hybrid powered vehicle would produce about 500 horsepower in acceleration, versus only 275 horsepower for the most powerful M113A3. The vehicle developed the augmented power by supplementing the conventional engine’s generated power with the energy stored in the battery pack. The batteries stored the energy produced when the brakes was applied.

    Most of the modern armored vehicles development programs, including the US Army FCS, British FRES, French BOA EBRC and Swedish SEP are based on HED technologies. Most programs are evaluating technology demonstrators prior to final decision on the type and configuration of the automotive system. Among these demonstrators are AHED, developed by General Dynamics, SEP, produced by BAE Systems land Systems, and TTS, produced by BAE Systems (formerly UDLP).

    AHED, an 8×8 wheeled vehicle has been demonstrated following several years of field testing, accumulating over 4,200 km of road and cross-country testing. It is currently undergoing testing in support of the British MOD FRES evaluation phase. The Swedish SEP program includes both tracked and wheeled versions. The wheeled version, called “SEP-Wheeled” vehicle has three axles and uses 6×6 drives. The vehicle uses two engines driving an electric transmission, powering each wheel by a 100 kW maximum power permanent magnet, in-hub electric motors. The motors are fitted with a two speed reduction gear. This design offers high redundancy and survivability when operating in combat conditions.


    The tracked version of SEP is fitted with special rubber bandtracks (already used with Bv206 articulated carriers) rather than conventional steel link tracks. These tracks are lighter, quieter and have a operational life of about twice that of an equivalent steel linked track. The new bandtracks have a lower rolling resistance and are operating more efficiently with the electric transmission systems, yielding higher fuel efficiency. Another unique design feature is the underframe mounted suspension. This spaced outer layer gives enhanced protection against mines. The SEP vehicle can withstand a 7 kilogram TNT explosion under a track.

    Similar techniques are evaluated for the Transformation Technology Demonstrator (TTD), developed by BAE Systems. This demonstrator uses hybrid electric drive combines battery power with a 250hp diesel generator to deliver 450hp instantaneously, enabling faster acceleration than any existing combat vehicle. When used in stealth mode, the TTD has a 10-mile range on battery power, producing silent operation. When stationary, the TTD can stand “silent watch” for more than 30 hours – both features will be of significant value for Future Combat Systems (FCS) applications. The TTD is designed for C-130 transportability and could travel up to 600 miles without refueling. Its band track provides three to five times the current track durability, significantly reduces noise and vibration, improves the ride and requires little or no maintenance. The company cooperated with General Dynamics in the development of a hybrid-electric FCS-W (Future Combat Systems— Wheeled) demonstrator which can travel 5 miles per hour for 30 minutes on level ground using only stored electric power.

    HED automotive technology is used in robotic ground vehicles, an example was the Spinner 6×6 HED powered Unmanned Ground Combat Vehicle (UGCV), which demonstrated up to 14 days missions and 450km range without refueling. The vehicle is powered by a 60Kw turnine, driving an electrical generator, feeding liquid cooled 30Kw hub UQM motors. The vehicle uses Lithium Ion SAFT battery to deliver up to 18 Kw/hour for silent operation.

    Additional parts of this article:

    C4 Mission Planning Tools

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    Planning and preparation are always vital for the mission success, but these become critical factor in modern employment of urban operations in Low Intensity Conflict operations. Past operations in urban terrain required extensive use of large forces, requiring massive and devastating fire support that limited military activities and exposed forces to unnecessary risks when employed in LIC.

    Today, C4 systems enable more efficient use of forces, based on timely and accurate situational assessment, employment of precision effects by weapons from aircraft, missiles and mortars down to the sniper, rifleman and grenadier. Mission planning tools available with current C4 systems utilize 3D modeling adapted to the urban area, enabling better terrain analysis, optimal planning of sensors positions, surveillance schemes and employment of firepower, selecting covert ingress employ flexible choice of egress routes to avoid unnecessary risks that may have happened in the area during the forces activity. Effective communications and situational awareness for all forces reduces the risk of fratricide and minimizes collateral damage and threat to non combatants.

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    C4 Networking Architecture

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    C4 architecture employed at the Brigade level and above, requires multiple links between distributed and remote command posts, integrated into the brigade’s C4 network. Past systems required vertical integration of every branch, by parallel communications links resulting in complex, costly and unreliable networking solutions. Current systems are integrated over a common mesh network infrastructure, sharing a common grid, and Geographic Information Database (GIS).


    It is implemented by the use of standard IP based communications over broadband wireless datalinks, including ATM or WiMAX wireless networks, providing rates of 54 Mbps over an area of 50 km. To sustain the bandwidth and connectivity to higher echelons, broadband wireless links and satellite are required. Connectivity with the lower echelon (battalion, recce etc) is provided with high capacity data radios, sustaining around 0.5 Mbps data rates. Other services are networking the elements of the command post. These utilize various types of wireless LANs, particularly WiFi (802.11)systems. This technology enables CPs to be distributed over a larger area, without characteristic signatures of tents or shelter complexes that could be easily detected from the air or from space. Protection of wireless networks, particularly COTS based, require special security measures, securing the data and the communications channel itself. In addition, protection measures for the network itself are required, particularly against penetration, exploitation, service denial and other types of attacks, carried out by computer worms, Trojan Horses and malicious code attacks. Future networks, under development today, will feature advanced and flexible Mobile Area Networks (MANET) offering self-forming, self-healing ad-hoc networks. Among the programs currently evaluated in the USA are MOSAICMIMO and others.

    Internet Protocol (IP) based connectivity enables seamless integration of information from different sources, where needed, resulting in a more economical use of available assets. Contemporary command and control networks implement common reporting protocols, collecting and preparing tactical situation reports automatically dispatched by tactical formations from the lowest echelons. Such automatic reports include locations and status of available supplies, ammunition levels in each vehicle, system’s health status, etc. Reports are provided with time stamps and position data, to automatically generated situational pictures, and synchronized by time and space at the brigade level. The processing of this data can indicate important trends, predictions and timelines or spatial data presentations which are not readily available with current reporting systems. Logistical status reports can be formatted and generated manually, or automatically, using RFID inventory tracking technology.

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    The Modern Command Post Tactical Operations Center

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    Modern command posts are equipped with the latest technology to collect, disseminate, share and present information in clear and informative way CPOF. Current C2 systems offer common office automation services, template based forms, project-based planning, simulation and evaluation tools to plan, brief, control and debrief operations in an effective and timely manner. Large paper-based wall maps are replaced with video walls, capable of displaying real-time information of large images, facilitating effective display to a large audience during briefings and conferences. Yet, more commonly, conferencing services are used to establish frequent discussions, routine collaborations between commanders and staffers, taking part in planning, or periodical briefings and assessments. State of the art tools are used for such collaboration, including digital “sand tables” employing virtual reality tools and three-dimensional “terrain tables”. When the mission requires the integration of multiple sensors and tactical units in a complex scenario, multi-mission command and control cells are employed, utilizing special purpose consoles designed to handle such tasks.

    The brigade operates several command posts supporting the commander and his staff, subordinate units and the specialist branches, assuring the integrity, availability and flow of command and control at all time. Among the brigade’s command facilities are deployable in tents, shelters or “expando” shelters, preinstalled with all communications, computing elements and furniture to enable rapid set-up of the CP. Other types of CPs include tactical command post, mobile command post using armored fighting vehicles, and a lean “tactical command party” which utilizes specially equipped APCs, tactical vehicles or dismounted C4 kits to support the commander, and a small staff as they deploy away from their fully equipped CPs.

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    Common Operation Picture (COP)

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    Together, intelligence data and Blue Forces Tracking are fused to generate the digital map based Common Operational Picture (COP), which replaces traditional paper-based situational maps used for many generations. COP provides full and realistic presentation of all players – both hostile and friendly, refreshed in near-real-time updates. The situational picture presents all elements with precise locations, generated by reported GPS coordinates received from each element. Targets, enemy activity and order of battle are depicted in specific or generalized symbols, prepared by Brigade intelligence, and fused with information received from higher echelons. Cartographic presentations are also provided for logistical, service and combat support elements, utilizing their specific information systems, planning and reporting.

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    Brigade Level Tactical Operations Center

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    Brigade and regimental level have become the principal maneuver level of the modern air/land combat. These formations require special C4 systems to enable flexible connectivity, information flow and data processing. Brigades are employed as independent formations (particularly in rapid projection and expeditionary forces) or as tactical elements pursuing joint operations. When employed by higher HQs, Brigades are controlled by divisions as part of land forces corps, armies, or joint, coalition forces. While the brigade is responsible for a growing array of and tasks and units, integral or attached ad-hoc, it has also evolved to become an information hub mediating information to and from tactical, operational and strategic levels.

    Empowered by modern C4 tools, brigade Command Posts (CP) expanded their authority to control larger areas and more flexible and diverse forces. Growing demand for information and real-time intelligence required the development of intelligence collection and battlefield surveillance means, and access to divisional and strategic intelligence assets. Mapping and terrain modeling capabilities are also fielded at these echelons, to support operations, analyzing terrain and mobility to support operational planning. Equally important is the Blue Forces Tracking (BFT) – tracking and location of all friendly forces presented in the brigade’s area of responsibility, provided through dedicated systems or as by-product of modern GPS enabled communications equipment.

     

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    Situation Assessment Tools For Dismounted Leaders

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    Specific computerized equipment is designed to support infantry operations. While the BMS may be similar, the smaller displays, limited communications capabilities, requirements for visual and audible stealth, and portable electrical power limitations dictate special adaptations to be made in these C2 applications. A typical element used for dismounted operations, including patrols, and support for team leaders, is the rugged Tablet Computer or Rugged Personal Digital Assistant (RPDA). Team leaders, platoon and company commanders may also use special observation devices, integrated with digital displays, compass and laser rangefinders, maintaining efficient situational awareness, command and control under covert conditions on ambushes, special operations etc.

    Infantry warriors will soon use digital 3D audio, enhanced weapons sights, embedded with digital displays, or monocular eyepieces to display C2 information, maps and situational pictures right before their eyes. Introduction of wearable computers will add more powerful features for such applications, including 3D situational displays and of immersive (virtual reality) visualization augmenting current electro-optical viewing capabilities with real-time presentation of blue forces positions and threats, automatic target recognition, as well as support for operational planning and training. Such features are currently available only in large simulators.

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    DSEi-2005 Exhibition Review

    Britain’s tri-service defense exhibition DSEi 2005 held in mid September in London justified the market expectations becoming one of the world’s leading defense events. With more than 1,200 exhibitors from 34 countries displaying their hardware in 21 national pavilions and over 20,000 professional visitors, DSEi further strengthened its international tri-service theme. Several systems were unveiled here including a new air defense platform called Thor, developed by Thales Air Defense in the UK, Portee M777 lightweight artillery carrier, developed by BAE Systems land Systems and an actual Watchkeeper unmanned aerial vehicle displayed by Thales. Many other newsworthy items were hidden in the small details. In this article, Defense Update is focusing on land warfare systems, described in the following topics and themes:

    Next

    Vehicular C4 Applications (Vetronics)

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    At the basic level of the C4 hierarchy are the individual elements of Battle Management Systems, consisting of vehicular mounted and man-portable units, connected to higher echelons over existing Combat Net Radio (CNR) systems. When integrated into armored fighting vehicles, such as main battle tanks, armored fighting vehicles, self propelled artillery, reconnaissance vehicles and helicopters, these systems are integrated as part of existing vehicle electronics (vetronics), including fire control systems, electro-optical equipment, navigation systems, radio and intercom, countermeasures etc.

    Modern vehicles are built with vetronics architecture similar to those used with aircraft avionics. Systems are comprised of local area Ethernet network, a central switch and router, main computer processor, an information server, individual displays allocated to the crew members, particularly to the commander, weapon system operator (gunner) and driver. Standard displays provided for crewmembers are used for monitoring the vehicle’s surrounding, direction of weapons and electro-optical observation gear through remote-control weapon stations etc. The commander uses a larger display, showing situational and tactical displays on digital maps. In some applications, displays can be remotely dismounted from their position for ease of operation.

    Modern AFVs are equipped wit a “glass cockpit” similar to those used in helicopters. Displays are used to augment the driver’s vision blocks, offering safe driving at night and in adverse weather conditions; other displays monitor the vehicle status, system’s health monitoring and diagnostics, emergency procedures, driving directions and display of an external out-of-vehicle view of a thermal sensor over a “virtual window” for night driving.

    Peripheral views can be provided by multiple video cameras, situational picture of potential threats can be generated by fusing alerts from Cemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (CBRN) sensors, laser warning sensors and triggering on-board countermeasures, including fully integrated remotely controlled operation of the weapon system. Vetronics systems can link with onboard sensors, to show systems status, generate reports to local or higher levels of command.
    An important feature of vehicle vetronics is the recording and simulation capability. When supported by virtual training simulators, combat vehicles become powerful training systems, where troops can take part in simulated training or perform live exercises challenged by virtual friendly and hostile entities, realistically presented over the vehicles’ sensors and systems. Real operations as well as training activities are recorded on board, for debriefing and analysis.

    Communications devices include radio interface units controlling the radios, as well as digital wireless communications radio, facilitating local area wireless LAN connectivity between on-board or dismounted crew members, and neighboring vehicles. Connectivity to the Battalion level BMS network is established over CNR communications radios, which are already supporting data transfer rates of 64 Kbps. Command vehicles (Command tanks, APCs etc) can also be equipped with data radio, providing increased capacity for the user, as well as supporting functions of communications gateways and routing nodes for the entire network.

    Open architecture and commercial protocols are commonly used to flexibly adapt to changes and technological development. Standards such as IEEE 802.11E wireless LAN, Voice over IP (VOIP) and CANBUS, to interface with the vehicle’s automotive system are commonly used.

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    Building Blocks of C4 Systems

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    As users become connected, more applications are fielded and new services made available, contributing to improved situational awareness, better informed decisions and efficient management of assets and material. In military terms, these capabilities are becoming a force multiplier enabling commanders to improve their situational assessment, consider potential courses of action and implement the best solution. Achieving the most suitable effect with smaller, more flexible and maneuverable assets is imperative for cost effective operations.

    C4 is the key enabler for effects based operations. To maintain the highest flexibility, and maneuverability, weapon systems are being connected to information systems, through integrated vehicle electronics (vetronics) which become the building blocks of modern battle management systems.

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    Skunk Works and XTEND Simplify Multi-Drone Command

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    Lockheed Martin Skunk Works® and XTEND have achieved a major milestone in JADC2 by integrating the XOS operating system with the MDCX™ autonomy platform. This technical breakthrough enables a single operator to simultaneously command multiple drone classes, eliminating the friction of mission handoffs. From "marsupial" drone deployments to operating in GPS-denied environments, explore how this collaboration is abbreviating the data-to-decision timeline and redefining autonomous mission execution.

    From Ukraine to Taiwan: The Global Race to Dominate the New Defense Tech Frontier

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    As traditional defense primes face mounting competition from agile “neoprimes” such as Anduril, Palantir and Helsing, the balance of innovation is shifting toward software-defined warfare and scalable, dual-use technologies, while global industry consolidation—marked by Boeing’s integration of Spirit AeroSystems and other strategic mergers—signals an intensified race to secure control over the defense technology value chain. Our Defense-Tech weekly report highlights these trends.

    Europe’s “Drone Wall”

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    In early October 2025, a coordinated wave of unmanned aerial system (UAS) incursions—widely attributed to Russia—targeted critical infrastructure across at least ten European nations. The unprecedented campaign exposed the fragility of Europe’s air defenses...

    Weekly Defense Update & Global Security Assessment

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    Executive Summary The past week (September 18-25, 2025) represents an inflection point where strategic defense concepts have transitioned from doctrine to tangible reality. An analysis of global events reveals four primary, interconnected trends shaping an...

    U.S. Air and Space Forces Push Next-Gen Programs at the AS&C 2025 Conference and...

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    At the 2025 Air, Space & Cyber Conference, U.S. Air Force and Space Force leaders unveiled major updates on next-generation fighters, bombers, unmanned systems, and space initiatives, highlighting both rapid innovation and critical readiness challenges as the services race to outpace global competitors. A short version is available here, with a more detailed version for subscribers.

    TADTE 2025: Reflecting Taiwan’s Strategic Themes

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    The Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition (TADTE) 2025 crystallized around four dominant strategic themes that collectively illustrate Taiwan's comprehensive approach to defense modernization amid escalating regional tensions. Based on a detailed report by Pleronix (available upon request). Includes a Podcast discussion on TADTE 2025's highlighting Taiwan's four strategic themes beyond the post's coverage.

    Iron Beam 450 Completes Testing, Soon to Join With Operational Air Defense Units

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    Israel’s Iron Beam 450 high-power laser system has completed final testing, marking a major leap in air defense. Developed by Rafael, it offers precise, cost-effective interception of rockets, UAVs, and mortars, and is set for IDF deployment by 2025.