IFVs – Essential Components for NATO’s Forward Presence

By

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Mar 15, 2023

BTR4-ukraine-1021 — Ukrainian soldiers assigned to 1st Battalion, 92nd Mechanized Brigade, participate in a platoon live-fire exercise, engaging targets from their BTR-4 Armored Fighting Vehicles (IFV) before dismounting and assaulting the remaining objectives on foot. The war in Ukraine reiterated the need for the fast delivery and dependable sustainment from domestic sources to enable protected mobility and firepower for NATO forces. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Alexander Rector)

How does the rapid fielding of modern and mature 8×8 IFVs reduce the risk and enhance the combat agility of NATO’s Eastern front? The combat experience gathered in the Ukraine War reflects the need for agile land combat systems that effectively integrate maneuverability and firepower and rely on logistical support from domestic or neighboring allied countries.

IFVs are Rising to Face New Threats

While forward-deployed heavy armor – main battle tanks and heavily armored infantry fighting vehicles (AIFV) – provide the highest deterrence, the need to cover the long border requires more agile and deployable forces that often consist of wheeled combat vehicles, able to move quickly over long distances, and deploy adequate firepower and infantry troops, anti-tank equipment, self-propelled mortars, and artillery wherever they are most needed. 8×8 combat vehicles are deemed the most suitable for such missions and are widely available to many NATO countries. Eastern European armies have relied chiefly on Russian 8×8 vehicles such as the BTR-60, 80, and OT-64. Western APCs – Pandur II, AMV, and Piranha- replaced many of these legacy armored vehicles.

However, the Western vehicles were configured as Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), just like their Russian counterparts. Only recently, NATO embraced the 8x8s as an IFV, equipped with a 30mm automatic cannon, anti-tank guided missiles, sophisticated situational awareness, and target acquisition systems.

Australia was the first country outside NATO to select the Boxer RCT30 infantry fighting vehicle for the Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle role. Photo: CPL Nunu Campos, Australian defence

Unlike other AFV programs, this concept did not begin with the world’s leading armies but with small nations looking for affordable alternatives to heavy armored formations. Poland was the first to field such a system, mounting the Italian HitFist 30P turret from Leonardo as a standard weapon on the AMV Rosomak. Brazil came second, adopting the new Israeli concept of mounting a medium caliber gun on an overhead remotely controlled weapon station from Elbit Systems.

For several years NATO has been increasing its military presence in the eastern part of the Alliance as a direct result of the Russian onslaught on Ukraine in 2014. In 2016 Allied Heads of State and Government agreed to establish NATO’s forward presence in the northeast and southeast of the Alliance in response to the increased instability and insecurity along NATO’s periphery. This act was followed by positioning four multinational battalion-size battlegroups in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland providing some of the forces, led by the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and the United States providing armored units and resources. Additional battlegroups were established following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, positioning four more multinational battlegroups in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia, effectively doubling the number of troops on the ground and demonstrating the Alliance’s determination to respond to any aggression and protect the Alliance’s eastern flank – from the Baltic Sea in the north to the Black Sea in the south.

The turret production line at Bacău, near Bucharest, provides Romania with self-sufficiency in producing and supporting Piranha V IVCs. Photo: Elbit Systems

The High Cost of Integration

Unlike manned turrets that take much of the internal space for the weapon system, unmanned turrets are installed on top, clearing much of the room for the crew and infantry squad. However, without a crew in the turret, all operations must be performed remotely. This process requires extensive electronic integration of mechanical and electrical systems and extensive support to keep those automated systems running smoothly and meeting user expectations. Having those capabilities at close geographic proximity is important for rapid fielding and high readiness of such advanced combat systems.

The Stryker Dragoon ICV-D was the first IFV to mount a 30mm cannon in an unmanned turret.

The complex integration posed significant challenges to countries that opted to move this way. Since most vehicle manufacturers do not provide turrets, users often choose the weapon system and match it with the platform. A typical integration is complex and could take two to four years. The U.S. Army has also encountered problems with its Stryker 30mm Infantry Carrier Vehicle – Dragoon. In 2015, the U.S. Army chose the MCT-30 remotely operated turret from the Norwegian company Kongsberg to be mounted on flat-hull Strykers to increase the lethality of the Stryker Brigade in Europe. These systems have been fielded and operated with the US Army as part of the European Deterrence Initiative since 2018. However, after supplying two brigades, the Army switched to a more protected platform, the Stryker DVHA1, which required repeated integration of the medium caliber weapon system. This program was led by Oshkosh and used a derivative of the Samson 30 turret from Rafael optimized for the Army’s requirements. Although the US required local production of the turrets to meet the rapid delivery schedules, manufacturing of turrets is currently undergoing in Israel. The integration was smooth and was completed within a year. Deliveries of the systems are now in the second year of production, under the $942 million program of record expected to complete delivery within four years.

Lithuania also pursued the Samson turret from Rafael for its Vilkas – the 8×8 Boxers. Lithuania was offered a German turret for the Boxer but preferred to mount the Samson MKII turret, which was more affordable. The integration of German and Israeli systems encountered significant challenges, particularly under the COVID-19 restrictions that prevented the flow of equipment and personnel, lengthy cycles for problem-solving, experimentation, testing, and repair that delayed deliveries by two years. The issues are reportedly resolved by now, but according to Lithuanian press reports, some problems still linger today and affect the operational capabilities of the Vilkas. Nevertheless, the integration challenges encountered in the process have delayed the delivery of the Boxers Lithuania planned to acquire.

Lithuania was the first NATO country to pioneer the 30mm turreted variant of the Boxer and, as an early adopter, also faced significant integration challenges. Photo: Lithuanian MOD

Bridging the Gap with Localized, Mature Solutions

Bucharest opted for similar weapons but selected different platforms and turrets – opting for the locally produced General Dynamics Land Systems Europe Piranha V with Elbit Systems’ UT30MK2 unmanned turret, also built in the country, over the German Boxer and its Lance turret. Rafael’s Spike guided missiles are also used on the Romanian APC. Croatia has also fielded a similar turret as part of its Patria 8×8 modernization program. The company also completed a similar integration of UT30MK2 on the Austrian Pandur II for various customers.

The paths followed by Romania and Lithuania reflect different acquisition approaches to other acquisitions in Eastern Europe. Traditionally, European countries favored the local assembly or full manufacturing of their vehicles, but, for many, the manufacturing of turrets required many specializations that were not readily available in most countries. Furthermore, integrating different platforms, turrets, missile systems, and electronics posed additional risks and delays, particularly for those investing in the independent local development of vehicles or turrets. For example, Poland, like Romania, favored the local production of an upgraded Rosomak equipped with an unmanned turret of a local design. But, unlike the tried and tested Romanian design backed by experienced teams from the original vehicle and turret manufacturers, Poland is currently integrating a new turret into a new vehicle – a significant challenge. Slovakia is also taking the uncharted path, matching the Patria AMV with a locally manufactured turret developed by EVPU. Bulgaria also planned to buy 150 such vehicles but has canceled their plan due to high costs.

Another country encountering a prolonged complex acquisition of IFV is Slovenia. In 2008 the country was one of the first European countries to select remotely controlled medium caliber weapons from Elbit Systems for their 8×8 IFV; the program stalled due to legal allegations concerning the vehicle manufacturer Patria. In 2018 Slovenia selected the German Boxer in the same configuration developed for Lithuania, but this plan was canceled in 2022. This year Slovenia is initiating this acquisition, this time considering a more considerable buy on a Government to Government (G2G) basis. Slovenia will likely view only European suppliers to ensure timely supply and continuous support even in times of crisis. Italy, Poland, Romania, Austria, and Switzerland already supply modern IFVs for domestic use; some offer local assembly for other European countries. The US Stryker could be considered, but other options are more feasible given that US production lines are full for several years for platforms and turrets. Turret manufacturers haven’t been mentioned yet. However, given the requirement for rapid delivery and local support from European countries, having fully integrated platform and weapon systems and active manufacturing and support, Romania is considered a good candidate, alongside other European manufacturers, such as the Norwegian Kongsberg and Italian Leonardo.

Fielding multi-role IFVs has been challenging, but these combat systems’ value to the modern battlespace is clear, but the IFV isn’t made as a single system. It combines a chassis, propulsion, and armor systems, an unmanned turret, missile systems, and vetronics delivered by different manufacturers. The integration and assembly represent a complex task. Marrying proven systems and platforms delivered by trusted sources from active production lines is paramount in reducing risks and accelerating delivery and fielding.

IFVs – Essential Components for NATO’s Forward Presence

By

Tamir Eshel

-

Mar 10, 2023

How does the rapid fielding of modern and mature 8×8 IFVs reduce the risk and enhance the combat agility of NATO’s Eastern front? The combat experience gathered in the Ukraine War reflects the need for agile land combat systems that effectively integrate maneuverability and firepower and rely on logistical support from domestic or neighboring allied countries.

IFVs are Rising to Face New Threats

While forward-deployed heavy armor – main battle tanks and heavily armored infantry fighting vehicles (AIFV) – provide the highest deterrence, the need to cover the long border requires more agile and deployable forces that often consist of wheeled combat vehicles, able to move quickly over long distances, and deploy adequate firepower and infantry troops, anti-tank equipment, self-propelled mortars, and artillery wherever they are most needed. 8×8 combat vehicles are deemed the most suitable for such missions and are widely available to many NATO countries. Eastern European armies have relied chiefly on Russian 8×8 vehicles such as the BTR-60, 80, and OT-64. Western APCs – Pandur II, AMV, and Piranha- replaced many of these legacy armored vehicles.

However, the Western vehicles were configured as Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), just like their Russian counterparts. Only recently, NATO embraced the 8x8s as an IFV, equipped with a 30mm automatic cannon, anti-tank guided missiles, sophisticated situational awareness, and target acquisition systems.

Unlike other AFV programs, this concept did not begin with the world’s leading armies but with small nations looking for affordable alternatives to heavy armored formations. Poland was the first to field such a system, mounting the Italian HitFist 30P turret from Leonardo as a standard weapon on the AMV Rosomak. Brazil came second, adopting the new Israeli concept of mounting a medium caliber gun on an overhead remotely controlled weapon station from Elbit Systems.

For several years NATO has been increasing its military presence in the eastern part of the Alliance as a direct result of the Russian onslaught on Ukraine in 2014. In 2016 Allied Heads of State and Government agreed to establish NATO’s forward presence in the northeast and southeast of the Alliance in response to the increased instability and insecurity along NATO’s periphery. This act was followed by positioning four multinational battalion-size battlegroups in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland providing some of the forces, led by the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and the United States providing armored units and resources. Additional battlegroups were established following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, positioning four more multinational battlegroups in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia, effectively doubling the number of troops on the ground and demonstrating the Alliance’s determination to respond to any aggression and protect the Alliance’s eastern flank – from the Baltic Sea in the north to the Black Sea in the south.

The High Cost of Integration

Unlike manned turrets that take much of the internal space for the weapon system, unmanned turrets are installed on top, clearing much of the room for the crew and infantry squad. However, without a crew in the turret, all operations must be performed remotely. This process requires extensive electronic integration of mechanical and electrical systems and extensive support to keep those automated systems running smoothly and meeting user expectations. Having those capabilities at close geographic proximity is important for rapid fielding and high readiness of such advanced combat systems.

The complex integration posed significant challenges to countries that opted to move this way. Since most vehicle manufacturers do not provide turrets, users often choose the weapon system and match it with the platform. A typical integration is complex and could take two to four years. The U.S. Army has also encountered problems with its Stryker 30mm Infantry Carrier Vehicle – Dragoon. In 2015, the U.S. Army chose the MCT-30 remotely operated turret from the Norwegian company Kongsberg to be mounted on flat-hull Strykers to increase the lethality of the Stryker Brigade in Europe. These systems have been fielded and operated with the US Army as part of the European Deterrence Initiative since 2018. However, after supplying two brigades, the Army switched to a more protected platform, the Stryker DVHA1, which required repeated integration of the medium caliber weapon system. This program was led by Oshkosh and used a derivative of the Samson 30 turret from Rafael optimized for the Army’s requirements. Although the US required local production of the turrets to meet the rapid delivery schedules, manufacturing of turrets is currently undergoing in Israel. The integration was smooth and was completed within a year. Deliveries of the systems are now in the second year of production, under the $942 million program of record expected to complete delivery within four years.

Lithuania also pursued the Samson turret from Rafael for its Vilkas – the 8×8 Boxers. Lithuania was offered a German turret for the Boxer but preferred to mount the Samson MKII turret, which was more affordable. The integration of German and Israeli systems encountered significant challenges, particularly under the COVID-19 restrictions that prevented the flow of equipment and personnel, lengthy cycles for problem-solving, experimentation, testing, and repair that delayed deliveries by two years. The issues are reportedly resolved by now, but according to Lithuanian press reports, some problems still linger today and affect the operational capabilities of the Vilkas. Nevertheless, the integration challenges encountered in the process have delayed the delivery of the Boxers Lithuania planned to acquire.

Bridging the Gap with Localized, Mature Solutions

Bucharest opted for similar weapons but selected different platforms and turrets – opting for the locally produced General Dynamics Land Systems Europe Piranha V with Elbit Systems’ UT30MK2 unmanned turret, also built in the country, over the German Boxer and its Lance turret. Rafael’s Spike guided missiles are also used on the Romanian APC. Croatia has also fielded a similar turret as part of its Patria 8×8 modernization program. The company also completed a similar integration of UT30MK2 on the Austrian Pandur II for various customers.

The paths followed by Romania and Lithuania reflect different acquisition approaches to other acquisitions in Eastern Europe. Traditionally, European countries favored the local assembly or full manufacturing of their vehicles, but, for many, the manufacturing of turrets required many specializations that were not readily available in most countries. Furthermore, integrating different platforms, turrets, missile systems, and electronics posed additional risks and delays, particularly for those investing in the independent local development of vehicles or turrets. For example, Poland, like Romania, favored the local production of an upgraded Rosomak equipped with an unmanned turret of a local design. But, unlike the tried and tested Romanian design backed by experienced teams from the original vehicle and turret manufacturers, Poland is currently integrating a new turret into a new vehicle – a significant challenge. Slovakia is also taking the uncharted path, matching the Patria AMV with a locally manufactured turret developed by EVPU. Bulgaria also planned to buy 150 such vehicles but has canceled their plan due to high costs.

Another country encountering a prolonged complex acquisition of IFV is Slovenia. In 2008 the country was one of the first European countries to select remotely controlled medium caliber weapons from Elbit Systems for their 8×8 IFV; the program stalled due to legal allegations concerning the vehicle manufacturer Patria. In 2018 Slovenia selected the German Boxer in the same configuration developed for Lithuania, but this plan was canceled in 2022. This year Slovenia is initiating this acquisition, this time considering a more considerable buy on a Government to Government (G2G) basis. Slovenia will likely view only European suppliers to ensure timely supply and continuous support even in times of crisis. Italy, Poland, Romania, Austria, and Switzerland already supply modern IFVs for domestic use; some offer local assembly for other European countries. The US Stryker could be considered, but other options are more feasible given that US production lines are full for several years for platforms and turrets. Turret manufacturers haven’t been mentioned yet. However, given the requirement for rapid delivery and local support from European countries, having fully integrated platform and weapon systems and active manufacturing and support, Romania is considered a good candidate, alongside other European manufacturers, such as the Norwegian Kongsberg and Italian Leonardo.

Fielding multi-role IFVs has been challenging, but these combat systems’ value to the modern battlespace is clear, but the IFV isn’t made as a single system. It combines a chassis, propulsion, and armor systems, an unmanned turret, missile systems, and vetronics delivered by different manufacturers. The integration and assembly represent a complex task. Marrying proven systems and platforms delivered by trusted sources from active production lines is paramount in reducing risks and accelerating delivery and fielding.

General Robotics Displays Integrated Robotics Solutions at IDEX 2023

By

Tamir Eshel

-

Feb 20, 2023

170MDetector1021x580 — SHARK navalized weapon station mounted on the 170M Detector USV unveiled today at NAVDEX 2023 in the UAE. Photo: Defense-Update

General Robotics, the Israeli designer of Light Weight RCWS Systems and tactical robotics, displays advanced integrations of the company’s systems over platforms from several manufacturers. The systems are displayed by several leading integrators participating in the IDEX defense exhibition and NAVDEX naval expo opening today in Abu Dhabi.

SHARK – Naval Light & Smart RCWS

On display is the SHARK, a remotely controlled weapon system (RCWS) mounting an M2HB .50 machine gun. SHARK is installed over the 170M DETECTOR, an autonomous vessel developed by the ADSB company and IAI.

Built as a rugged, robust, seaworthy system, it is versatile enough to operate remotely on a cluttered deck, scoring direct hits at a sea state up to 3, where the platform and targets constantly move. With SHARK onboard, operators can benefit from advanced automation, stabilization, and platform integration functions such as the intuitive ‘Point & Shoot™ technology’. The AI-driven fire control runs a target prediction algorithm (TPA) to align the projectile’s path and the target’s expected location and points the weapon in that direction. Only then is a burst fired. This technique has demonstrated a hit accuracy of over 80 percent.

PITBULL lightweight RCWS mounting the MG3838 from Sig Sauer. Photo: Defense Update

PITBULL RCWS

The latest version of the PITBULL lightweight RCWS is shown in two configurations. One is shown by the Abu Dhabi company EDT, mounted on Plasan’s ATEMM, a ground robotic vehicle that can be deployed as an unattended weapon system. The ATEMM on display carries a stack of loitering weapons, self-protected by General Robotics’ PITBULL RCWS mounting the .50 CAL H2MG. (Stand 11-C07). The PITBULL is also displayed with the new MG338 at Sig Sauer.

The DOGO weaponized robot can now operate in synch with the smaller CHAMELEON. Photo: Defense-Update

Robotic Teamwork

The teamwork of two operational robotic systems developed by General Robotics is also explored. DOGO, a small tracked armed reconnaissance robot optimized for operations indoors, is now geared to work with Chameleon as a marsupial robot carried on DOGO’s back or thrown up to a higher floor or roof to enhance situational awareness and extend communications link. DOGO and CHAMELEON are on display at International Golden Group (IGG).

PITBULL Anti Drone

Another version of PITBULL highlights the system’s anti-drone capabilities. PITBULL can be equipped with electronic effectors from D-FEND Solutions or Droneshield for soft-kill or employ a firearm with its sophisticated automatic target recognition, tracking, and advanced target prediction capabilities for hard-kill. Resource Industries shows the PITBULL Anti-Drone in this configuration.

PITBULL provides the Hard Kill element in Resources Industries’ C-UAS solution on the Czech Patriot II armored vehicle. The soft-kill layer provided by D-FEND solutions is positioned behind the PITBULL). Photo: Defense-Update

Brahmos Seeks New Export Prospects for Indo-Russian Missiles

By

D. Zeevi

-

Feb 15, 2023

Celebrating its 25 anniversary at the Aero India 2023 exhibition, Brahmos Aerospace shows the Brahmos I air-launched cruise missiles (ALCM) and the new Brahmos NG currently under development. Developed under the Indo-Russian Joint Venture, Brahmos I have been fielded by the Indian Navy and Army and is being fielded with the Air Force. The capability to operate the missile on Su-30 aircraft has raised prospects for Russian interest in obtaining the co-produced missile for their navy and air force. In 2016 such a purchase was discussed, but Russia did not pursue the acquisition. However, Russia may reconsider this opportunity after spending many of its Onyx missiles during the War in Ukraine.

The long-range naval/land attack missile is shown on the static display onboard the Sukhoi- 30MKI fighter platform of the Indian Air Force. Models of the next generation version (Brahmos NG) are displayed on a model at the Brahmos Aerospace stand.

Accelerated by a solid rocket booster and powered by a ramjet, the Brahmos I missile cruises at high supersonic speed (Mach 2.8) and can strike targets on land or sea at distances exceeding 500 km. The ALCM variant weighs 2.5 tons and carries a warhead weighing 200 kg. The Indian Air Force already confirmed a requirement of 400 missiles that will be delivered within five years.

The Brahmos NG is smaller and lighter compared to the Brahmos I. Photo: Brahmos Aerospace

Models of Brahmos NG were displayed on the SU-30MKI models at Aero India 2023. Photo: Defense-Update

A procedure training simulator depicting a Brahmos ALCM mission was displayed at Aero India 2023. Photo: Defense Update

Brahmos NG is designed as a smaller and more agile missile, reaching a top speed of 3.5 Mach. It will have the same range as Brahmos I and carry an equally capable warhead. The manufacturer plans to introduce another variant, Brahmos II, designed to reach an even higher speed, rated at the hypersonic regime (above Mach 5). In addition to achieving hypersonic speed, Brahmos II is likely to be low observable, making it suitable for fifth-generation platforms.

The intake of Brahmos NG uses a larger cone, characteristic of the higher velocity. Photo: Brahmos Aerospace

Brahmos I has attracted much interest in India and abroad. In January 2022, the Philippines became the first export customer of the system, deploying the missiles in coastal defense configuration. Some countries in the Middle East have also raised interest, and Brahmos intends to tap this interest, bringing the system to the IDEX 2023 exhibition in Abu Dhabi next week. As a versatile weapon system, Brahmos can be integrated on various platforms, including frigates, submarines, land-attack, and coastal defense weapons.

Brahmos is positioned as a central player in achieving India’s ambitious target to reach defense exports worth US$5 billion by 2025. Beginning in 2024, the missiles will be produced at a new manufacturing site built at Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor (UPDIC). The site will also accommodate a development center for current and future missiles. More than 20,000 scientists, engineers, and technicians are directly engaged with the program, leveraging an ecosystem of +200 companies throughout India providing components and subsystems for the missile systems.

Brahmos I carried on the centerline weapon station of an IAF Su-30MKI on static display at aero India 2023. Photo: Defense Update

The Indian Sukhoi Su-30 MKI can carry a single missile on the centerline station. The large size and weight eliminated the ability to catty Brahmos I underwing. Even a single missile significantly reduces fuel and weapon loadout. The next-generation missile will be able to meet the three-missile configuration required by the Indian Air Force, adding two Brahmos NG missiles carried on underwing stations. Integrations for Tejas will expand the use of Brahmos NG with the Indian Air Force and Navy and open more export opportunities. Rafale integration is also considered for the Indian Air Force and could open more export prospects, primarily in the Middle East. The manufacturer also plans integration on Typhoon, targeting potential Middle East customers. Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait are operating Typhoons and could be interested in the Brahmos NG integration on their aircraft. Brahmos NG is slated to begin flight tests within 1-2 years. The hypersonic Brahmos II is expected to follow toward the decade’s end.

30 Years of India-Israel Defense Relations

By

D. Zeevi

-

Feb 12, 2023

Yelahahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India:
For several decades, India and Israel have established a long-standing relationship in the defense sector, with cooperation intensifying in the past 30 years. The association has grown from a buyer-seller relationship to a unique and comprehensive strategic partnership, with both countries collaborating on a wide range of defense projects and exchanging expertise in various fields.

This trusted partnership has always been a factor driving the growth of India-Israel defense cooperation. As two democracies whose heritage spans millennia, Israel and India’s bilateral relations stand tall in the changing geopolitical landscape. This trusted partnership has always been a factor driving the growth of India-Israel defense cooperation. As two democracies whose heritage spans millennia, Israel and India’s bilateral relations stand tall in the changing geopolitical landscape. From the terror attacks in Mumbai in 2008 to the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020, the two countries have stood together side by side. Israel proved a reliable partner, and its advanced defense technology and expertise make it a unique partner for India.

In association with Aeromag Asia
The official Media Partner of Aero-India 2023

These bilateral relations are essential for both sides. For Israel, the stimulus is strategic. As one of the world’s largest economies, India is an important ally that helps forge foreign relations in the region and beyond and a market that can tap Israel’s innovative technologies in many fields, from defense, security, and aerospace, to science, agriculture, healthcare, water management, and many other areas.

The history of India-Israel defense cooperation can be traced back to the early 1990s when India started purchasing defense equipment from Israel. Over the years, India has become one of the largest buyers of Israeli defense equipment, purchasing a wide range of products, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), radar systems, missile defense systems, and ammunition.

Atmanirbhar Bharat aims to unlock the potential of the Indian domestic industry and manufacturers to meet the country’s growing requirements

One of the significant milestones in India-Israel defense cooperation was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defense cooperation in January 2008. The MoU provided a framework for the two countries to collaborate on various defense projects and exchange expertise in multiple fields.

Joint defense programs between India and Israel include the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), loitering missiles, electro-optics, radars, avionics, electronic warfare equipment, naval countermeasures, and communications systems. The two countries have also developed joint solutions for defense, security, cyber, and counter-terrorism operations, exchanging expertise in various fields.

Keeping their commitment to the Make-in-India policy, Israel’s defense enterprises have always respected India’s demand for localization and indigenization. All of Israel’s leading defense companies and some of the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have established joint ventures with local partners in India to position their products in the Indian market better. With activities covering various fields that were pursued under JVs with Defense Public Sector Undertakings (DPSU) such as HAL, BEL, and BDL, and Private Sector Companies such as Kalyani, Adani, Tata, Alpha Design, Mahindra, Wipro, among others, opening manufacturing plants in Hyderabad and other locations.

Israel’s leading defense companies have established JVs with local partners in India to position their products in the Indian market better

The MoU also laid the foundation for establishing the Joint Working Group on Defense Cooperation, which has been instrumental in strengthening the defense relationship between the two countries. This task force works to identify new areas of defense cooperation, examined within the strategic perspective of the two countries. The group examines mutually-beneficial technologies and fosters deeper engagement between the two defense ecosystems.

The defense relationship between the two countries has been shaped by India’s growing need for advanced defense technologies and Israel’s expertise in developing cutting-edge defense solutions. But the pace of business was determined by India’s complex regulations. In recent years, different rules regarding offset obligations and the mandatory level of domestic origin (known as ‘Make in India’) complicated collaborative programs as Israeli companies grappled with how to deal with the regulations and limited the scope to scale and grow. In recent years the policy has evolved into the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) initiative that aims to unlock the potential of the domestic industry and manufacturers to meet the country’s growing requirements. The new policy is challenging and denies foreign players access to major Indian defense programs; on the other hand, it provides foreign companies a path for closer integration in the Indian market, offering up to 74 percent foreign direct investment in local companies. With a more substantial stake in JVs, Israeli companies are becoming assured of the intellectual property (IP) they transfer to the JVs they establish in India, thus overcoming a major roadblock that hindered some transfer of sensitive technologies in the past.

In conclusion, the past three decades have seen significant growth in India-Israel defense cooperation. The relationship has evolved from a commercial relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, with both countries collaborating on a wide range of defense projects and exchanging expertise in various fields. This cooperation is expected to grow in the coming years as Israeli defense companies expand their presence and adjust to India’s self-reliance policy to address regional security challenges and tap the true scope of this market. It comes at a time when the military seeks new solutions addressing operational gaps unveiled in recent conflicts and lessons learned from the war in Eastern Europe. A clear lesson is a need for India to become self-reliant. However, self-reliance should also promote synergy in defense research and technology – another facet of what Israel and India have in common.

The Changing Landscape of Air-Defense

By

Tamir Eshel

-

Feb 10, 2023

The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine demonstrates the strategic shift in air warfare from direct attacks by bombers to standoff attacks using missiles. The ground-based air defenses have yet to embrace this change.

Legacy air defenses were designed to defeat the weapon carriers – the bombers, strike fighters, and their highly trained aircrews. Unlike the air raids of WWII, flown by thousands of bombers, modern air forces have much fewer aircraft and even fewer bombers.

In the recent conflicts in Syria, Yemen, Nagorno-Karabakh, and Ukraine, the role of missiles has increased, with each conflict involving a larger share of missiles in standoff attacks. These missiles include loitering, cruise, tactical ballistic missiles (TBM), and hypersonic maneuvering. Ukraine has encountered all these threats in its War against Russia in 2022-2023.

Israel’s Iron Dome was designed specifically to Counter Rockets, Artillery, and Mortars (C-RAM), when such attacks were not considered likely for most nations. However, today such threats are expected in many conflict spots worldwide. In Israel, where Iron Dome has seen combat, the system has demonstrated excellent performance in defending against rocket attacks.

The Proliferation of the Missile Threat

This threat is also relevant to many European nations, specifically the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. These nations have modern energy, telecommunications, transportation, and commercial infrastructure. In the event of a direct Russian strike or an ambiguous terrorist missile attack, significant damage could be caused to the country’s infrastructure, disrupt commercial continuity, and expose the population to great danger. The assessment of such risks has urgently driven Estonia and Latvia to seek a modern, advanced air defense solution. As the front-line NATO member countries, both share a border with Russia. The optimal protection in both countries requires a national air defense system that will provide wide-area defense in several layers, including point defense of high-priority strategic sites, effective against the different threat vectors.

Each type of missile represents different challenges for air defenses. Loitering missiles are launched from the ground; they are small, slow, and have a small radar signature making them virtually invisible to radar. Their relatively low cost enables the enemy to use large numbers of such missiles to saturate the defenses. Cruise missiles are launched from ships, submarines, aircraft, and ground launchers. They are a great challenge, especially since they fly low above the surface to evade detection. The ground-launched TBM is much faster. Although they fly in a predictable trajectory, they challenge the defenses with high terminal velocity, and the use of decoys, while some of the new TBM also consist of a level of maneuverability to confuse defenders’ fire controls. The new air and sea-launched hypersonic missiles take these capabilities to a new level, further challenging air and missile defenses.

The TBM threat is proliferating fast. From Iran to Yemen, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and most recently, Ukraine. According to official Ukraine sources, between February and November 2022, Russia launched over 800 tactical ballistic missiles in its attacks on Ukraine’s military, infrastructure, and population centers. They spent a large arsenal of their most advanced TBM – the 9K720 Iskander missile, striking targets from 500 kilometers. As the most devastating TBM in the Russian tactical arsenal, the Iskander poses the most challenging threat to air defense systems. It can carry a conventional or nuclear warhead and hit targets with high precision. The Russian attacks targeted strategic infrastructure such as the national energy generation systems and power grid, communications networks, military barracks, and air defense sites. The strategic goal behind those attacks was to cause a humanitarian crisis that would turn the population against the regime. This strategy was first implemented in Syria, almost eliminating the revolt that spanned over a decade. Russia considers its strategic attacks against Ukraine a success, and it is most likely that Moscow will use this strategy again if the conflict spills over to neighboring countries.

Barak-ER is seen launched from its ‘smart launcher’ during the recent trial. Part of the Barak MX air defense network, this interceptor is capable of engaging targets at ranges of 150 km. With decentralized and networked area-defense capabilities, the missile system is now capable of extending conventional air defense, engaging ballistic missile threats over large areas. Photo: IAI

Air Defense Should Evolve Missile Defense Capabilities

Air defense against such threats is not trivial. It includes fighter planes carrying missiles and guns and ground-based air defense systems, including radars, fire control centers, and missile interceptors. Those systems are based on technologies developed in the 1990s. Ground-based systems were designed to protect specific targets and operate in independent units. Such systems address distinct layers of defense – short, medium, and long ranges. To extend coverage over a wide area, an integrated network of several units is used to protect a larger area. However, as the sensors, battle management, and interceptors of most such systems are not optimized for all those missions, this solution is not optimal. Moreover, fighter planes cannot engage TBM and are challenged by the slow, low-flying, loitering weapons.

Only a few countries have missile defense capabilities, such as the Israeli ARROW system and the USA THAAD system, as part of their multi-layered air defense systems.
Modern air defense systems are designed to provide nationwide air defense – implementing a distributed system of sensors, fire units based on ‘smart launchers,’ and battle management systems that can employ different interceptors for short, medium, and long-range. Some of them with interception capabilities even out to 150 km. The battle management system and fire controls should be based on open systems architecture, which means they should implement different algorithms to engage specific targets, such as aircraft, guided missiles, and TBM. Each type of target requires techniques that are unavailable with legacy systems. Radars suitable for those systems should also be modular, able to be enhanced to detect and track smaller targets and extend their coverage from medium to long range.

While national air defense systems are primarily designed to defend military forces, strategic sites, and infrastructure from military threats, they are also required to protect the population and safeguard the citizens. Air and missile defense systems are required to deliver the best capabilities at an affordable cost and are measured by the cost of coverage rather than intercept. To achieve this goal, systems should be flexible and agile and have the growth potential to evolve throughout their life cycle. Combat experience has demonstrated that air defenses should be able to adapt and change, to deliver effective defense against the threats of today and tomorrow.

IAI Develops a Hybrid Loitering EO-Guided Missile for US Irregular Warfare

By

Tamir Eshel

-

Jan 19, 2023

point-blank-1021 — Point Blank smashes on a target on a recent test flight. Photo: IAI

IAI, as prime contractor, has been competitively awarded a multi-million-dollar contract by the Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate (IWTSD) of the US Department of Defense (DoD) to rapidly develop and deliver “ROC-X” a version of the POINT BLANK system that meets specific US DoD requirements to increase the organic precision strike lethality and survivability of small tactical teams. IAI will provide the first prototypes and training to DoD for Operational Testing & Evaluation in FY-23.

The weapon weighs 6.8 kg (15 lbs.) and is about one meter long (3 feet). It is designed to fly at a low altitude of 500m` (about 1,500 ft.) and strike targets at a range of 10 km. Once it reaches the target area, the Point Blank can hover or loiter for up to 20 minutes to validate the target and acquire it with high certainty. Once the operator orders the attack, the weapon will dive at the target, reaching a maximum speed of 80 m/sec (288 km/h).

This hybrid drone missile can carry a payload of up to two kilograms. This payload can include a small directional warhead that maximizes lethality toward the front to minimize collateral damage. The highly reliable safe-and-arm mechanism enables the missile to be retrieved safely by hand when the target has not been engaged. Point Blank can also be used on surveillance missions, using its integral electro-optical sensor and an additional battery to collect real-time surveillance.

Subscribe to view our photos in full size. Photos: Defense-Update

The missile is carried in a backpack and is assembled in a few minutes, using clip-on wings and tails to create the unique hybrid cruciform drone-missile shape. It is launched by hand and operated by a single soldier. it can take off and land vertically. Using unique ducted propeller propulsion and flight control with no moving parts (except the propellers), Point Blank is quiet, highly maneuverable, and stealthy.

The system addresses the battlefield requirement to provide tactical units, from small tactical teams of special forces to the infantry battalion level, with independent and organic firepower to increase their lethality.

IWTSD has been promoting international cooperation to leverage foreign experience, expertise, resources, and infrastructure in a unified approach to counter irregular warfare adversaries. Such activities are managed under bilateral agreements with five partner countries: Australia, Canada, Israel, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. As part of its Tactical Team Offensive Systems Directorate, IWTSD develops advanced equipment, capabilities, methods, and techniques that increase the lethality and kinetic effectiveness of small tactical units engaged in direct action operations.[wlm_ismember]

Point Blank is launched vertically by hand. If the weapon does not find a target, it can be safely retrieved by hand. Photo: IAI

Point Blank uses four ducted rotors for propulsion and maneuver control. This propulsion concept eliminates moving parts from this simple, innovative design, contributing to a robust, reliable system. Photo: IAI

The ducted rotor used by the Point Blank. Photo: Defense-Update

A rear view of the Point Blank tail, this design does not use moving parts, except for the rotors. Photo: Defense-Update

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A Smart Sight Provides Tactical Operators with Counter-Drone Overmatch at Long Range

By

Tamir Eshel

-

Jan 11, 2023

SMASH-IWOO-1021 — The IWOO system automatically detects, highlights, and tracks potential targets – including drones – using a see-through display that enhances the user's situational awareness. Built-in fire control processing continuously calculates the optimal firing solution to provide the user with clear, discreet guidance, firing only with the best chance of neutralizing the target ¬and delivering first-round hit capabilities. Photo: Smartshooter

After less than three years of development, Smartshooter has reached the final milestone of the Individual Weapon Overmatch Optic (IWOO) program, successfully passing the system’s Technology Readiness Review (TRR). The program began in February 2020, as the Department of Defence ASD SO/LIC’s ’Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate (IWTSD) selected the Israeli company Smartshooter to develop the solution for IWOO. The goal was to provide tactical operators with overmatch capability against long-range static and moving targets, both in daylight and at night.

“A few minor adjustments are being made to optimize performance; we are pleased with the progress demonstrated and look forward to conducting operational testing and evaluation using the dual-capabilities of IWOO prototypes in 2023 against ground targets at increased ranges and to take down drones,” said Michael Trexler, Special Operation Forces Combat Support Coordinator / Tactical Offensive Support Program Manager. Following the final design configuration approval, the IWOO will move into low-rate production, increasing orders for more systems as IWTSD exercises the contract procurement options.

The IWOO system automatically detects, highlights, and tracks potential targets – including drones – using a see-through display that enhances the user’s situational awareness. Built-in fire control processing continuously calculates the optimal firing solution to provide the user with clear, discreet guidance, firing only with the best chance of neutralizing the target ¬and delivering first-round hit capabilities time after time.

Through the development, Smartshooter employed the combat-proven technologies developed for the SMASH line of Fire Control Systems, operational with the Israel Defense Forces and international customers. Additional capabilities added to IWOO were the variable x1- x8 zoom, meeting IWTSD’s long-range requirement.

As part of this TRR, two prototype systems were taken through a series of live-fire tests by IWTSD to ensure the system met the contract performance requirements. The systems performed well and fired day and night, using clip-on night vision devices.

The IWOO system automatically detects, highlights, and tracks potential targets – including drones – using a see-through display that enhances the user’s situational awareness. Built-in fire control processing continuously calculates the optimal firing solution to provide the user with clear, discreet guidance, firing only with the best chance of neutralizing the target ¬and delivering first-round hit capabilities. Photo: Smartshooter

Foreign Exhibits at Vietnam Defence 2022

By

D. Zeevi

-

Jan 5, 2023

EW-Vietnam1 — Electronic warfare units were displayed by the Vietnamese forces during Vietnam Defence 2022. Photo: Defense-Update

Following are impressions from the main foreign exhibits at Vietnam Defence 2022

Russia

At the Vietnam Defense Exhibition, Russia was represented by Rosoboronexport, Rostec, and United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), but the displays mainly consisted of models. The Russian exhibit reflected their attempt to focus on what works in combat and minimize focus on the hardware that has shown poor performance in Ukraine. In this context, artillery rocket systems of various sizes, including a compact launcher of six 300mm rockets adapted for light trucks, were on display, with rockets modified to provide precision strike capability with an accuracy of 30 meters at a flight distance of 120 km. This trend is likely the Russian response and lessons from the successful performance of the Lockheed Martin M-142 HIMARS – the US equivalent used extensively by Ukraine with its M31 227mm precision-guided rockets. To gather accurate target information at these ranges, Russian artillery units could use the Orlan drones, which were also on display.

This course correction mechanism developed by SPLAV improves the precision of 300mm artillery rockets enabling such rockets to hit within 30 meters of the intended target from a range of 120 km. Photo: Defense-Update

Orlan 10B mini-UAV is widely used by the Russian forces to locate, and track targets of opportunity for the artillery, and provide battle damage assessment (BDA). Photo: Defense-Update

The Russian SPLAV company displayed the new 9M452 six-barrel rocket launcher, a lighter configuration of the 300mm Tornado-S mounted on the KAMAZ truck. Photo: Defense-Update

As a testament to the close relations between the two countries, Vietnam’s Prime Minister of Vietnam, Pham Minh Chinh was the guest of honor at the inauguration ceremony of the Indian pavilion. Photo: Aeromag.

India

India had a strong presence at the exhibition, with 20 exhibitors from the public and private sectors and research and development organizations. The main focus was on the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, which has achieved operational capability with the Indian navy and army and is being flight tested on Indian Su-30 MKI strike fighter jets similar to the Su-30s used by Vietnam. India has already sold the BrahMos to the Philippines and is negotiating to sell it to Indonesia and Vietnam. Other weapon systems promoted at the exhibition included the AKASH air defense systems, ASTRA beyond visual range air-to-air missile (also developed for India’s Su-30MKI and Tejas MK1), and an 8×8 wheeled Armored Platform (WhAP) APC that could potentially replace Vietnam’s legacy BTRs.

Helina (top) and Astra (center display) are two of the missiles displayed by Bharat Dynamics at Vietnam Defence 2022. Photo: Defense-Update.

US

Since lifting trade sanctions in 2016, the US has gradually increased defense trade with Vietnam, including selling T-6C training aircraft and pilot training through Foreign Military Support funds. Sales of F-16 fighter jets and C-130J transport aircraft are also in the works. Participating companies included Lockheed Martin, Textron, Honeywell, and Aerovironment.

Israel

In recent years, Vietnam has been looking to diversify its arms suppliers beyond Russia and has already acquired Israeli Spyder air defense systems and Trigon coastal defense rockets. Vietnam has also expressed interest in the Israeli Barak 8 air defense system as part of a $500 million investment.

The Czecho-Slovak CSG group was one of the largest exhibitors at Vietnam Defense 2022. Photo: Defense-Update

Czech and Slovak Republics

The Vietnam defense market is of interest to the Czech and Slovak defense industries, which are organized under the CSG group. This enterprise brings together 11 companies from both countries, including Excalibur Army (armored vehicle manufacturer), Tatra Defense Vehicles (truck producer), MSM Group (ammunition provider), Retia (radar specialist), and others.

Vietnam International Defense Expo Reflects Hanoi’s Military Prowess

By

D. Zeevi

-

Jan 5, 2023

Vittel-vietnam — Vittel, one of the largest Vietnamese exhibitor at Vietnam Defence 2022 have shown a wide range of electronic and electro-optical systems. Photo: Defense-Update

The Vietnam Defense Exhibition, held at the Gia Lam Airport near Hanoi, attracted over 170 exhibitors, about 60 from Vietnam and the rest from 30 countries. China was absent from the fair, which had been invited but declined to attend. Vietnam has a long-standing territorial dispute with China over the South China Sea and energy exploration in the area, leading to concerns about a potential confrontation between the two nations.

As a prominent Southeast Asian nation, Vietnam has a policy of avoiding commitment to regional or international alliances to remain independent and avoid conflicts that do not directly threaten the country. This policy has allowed Vietnam to rely on its defense forces and the resilience of its people, as demonstrated throughout the 20th century.

However, this policy is being tested by the growing regional threat posed by China’s expansion in the South China Sea, which conflicts with the interests of other nations, including Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. While the dispute is primarily over maritime affairs, Vietnam shares a land border with China.

With an estimated defense procurement budget of $8.5 billion over the next four years, Vietnam has become an attractive destination for defense marketing from US, Russia, Europe, and Asia companies. In the past, Vietnam relied heavily on Russia for its arms supply. Still, it is seeking to diversify its sources of arms procurement due to the growing relationship between Russia and China and the availability of more affordable options in India, Israel, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and the United Arab Emirates. Regional players such as Australia, Japan, Indonesia, and Singapore also have the potential to establish defense relations with Vietnam. However, the absence of South Korea from the exhibition was notable.

The Vietnam Defense Exhibition featured an aerial display of Su-30 aircraft and Mi-8/17 helicopters and a ground display of various weapons and equipment. These included ballistic missiles such as the SCUD-B and Hwasong-6, 4K44 Redut M coastal defense anti-ship missiles, and missile-launched torpedoes. The exhibition also featured several Vietnamese-developed drones and radars and air defense systems dating back to the Vietnam War, such as the S-125 Pechora-2M (SA-3) and ZSU-23/4 (Gundish). Modern air defense systems on display included the Russian SA-10 and Israeli Spyder.

Vietnamese ZSU-23/4 is equipped with an electro-optical fire control system and four IGLA very short-range air defense missiles. Photo: Defense-Update

The most advanced main battle tank in Vietnam’s inventory is the Russian T-90SK. Photo: Defense-Update

Vietnam’s main modern battle tank is the T-90, available in the /S and /SK variants. However, its other armored fighting vehicles and towed artillery, such as the BRDM-2, BTR-60, BMP-2, D-20, D-30, and M-46, are outdated. This has prompted the Vietnamese government to set an ambitious goal for defense procurement and modernization in the near future, to diversify its sources of arms and reduce its reliance on Russian suppliers from 80% to approximately 65%. India is quickly stepping up to offer Hanoi its military hardware and has allocated a $500 million credit line to support such sales.

Vittel was one of the leading Vietnamese defense and electronics companies that displayed a wide range of systems, including electro-optical and radar sensors. Photo: Defense-Update

Our impression from the Vietnam Defense 2022 exhibition clearly indicates this trend. India was the largest foreign exhibitor here, and as a testament to the close relations between the two countries, Vietnam’s Prime Minister of Vietnam, Pham Minh Chinh was the guest of honor at the inauguration ceremony of the Indian pavilion. Vietnam is interested in acquiring equipment from India, Israel, and the US and plans to become self-reliant through its own “Make in Vietnam” program, similar to India’s policy. However, Vietnam cannot currently produce its weapon systems and will need foreign support to establish an industrial base for local production. The exhibition provided local companies with an opportunity to showcase their capabilities and find potential foreign partners.

The VUA-SC-3G unmanned air vehicle weighs 26 kg on takeoff, carrying a payload of 3.5 kg. It can operate over a range of 50 km. Photo: Defense-Update

These drones are equipped with radioactivity sensors, that can measure radiation dose in the air, analyzing signal spectrum. Multiple drones can be used to map a wide area. The system was developed by Vietnam’s Academy of Military Science & Technology. Photo: Defense-Update

Hera represents a different variant of an armed drone that is configured to carry eight mortar bombs. It was developed by the US-based RT Robotics company owned by the Vietnamese CT Group. Photo: Defense-Update

Vietnam has adopted the “Make in Vietnam” policy similar to India’s to strengthen the capabilities of its local defense industry and support significant defense procurement programs. As a nation that adheres to a policy of non-alliance, Vietnam is likely to refrain from joining with foreign countries on cooperative development or production programs. Still, India and Vietnam have signed an agreement for sharing logistical support and operational facilities in ports along the South China Sea. Vietnam can also offer logistical support for aircraft or naval ships at Vietnamese ports and logistics services by local technicians once they absorb these technologies for their military.

Gearing Up for IDEX / NAVDEX 2023

By

Tamir Eshel

-

Jan 5, 2023

Under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, ADNEC Group is set to host the 16th edition of the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2023) and the 7th edition of the Naval Defence Exhibition and Conference (NAVDEX 2023), which will take place on 20-24 February 2023. Organized by ADNEC Group at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, in association with the UAE Ministry of Defense, the events are set to showcase a wide range of new features and attract leading participants and exhibitors from the international defense industry.

The upcoming edition of IDEX marks the 30th edition of the event and, along with NAVDEX, these events have become the largest of their kind in the world. The events are expected to host high-caliber participation, including leaders, decision-makers, ministers, and senior officials, as well as industry experts and professionals from all over the world.

As part of the event week, in a first of its kind, ADNEC will host a series of high-level round table discussions with prominent industry thought leaders and commentators. These leading industry experts will gather to discuss recent and critical topics around the defense and naval industries, with an outcomes-based objective to collaborate on focused industry reports. Two of IDEX’s media partners, Arabian Defence and Defense-Update, have teamed to produce on-site and online coverage of the exhibitions, distributing thousands of magazines and online posts to visitors and followers in Abu Dhabi and worldwide.

Aeromag Asia – Arabia Defence is partnering with Defense-Update to publish special coverage at IDEX/NAVDEX 2023.

With IDEX and NAVDEX will introduce IDEX Next-Gen, a space dedicated to startups that will enable entrepreneurs to demonstrate their solutions and technologies in the defense and naval sector to leading figures in the industry. The events will also introduce the Innovation Trail, a focused journey through the exhibition, highlighting the latest products and innovations for the defense and naval community, from the world’s leading brands. Exhibitors will be able to submit their newest and most innovative products and solutions for selection as part of this curated journey, which will attract the interest of thousands of international and local buyers.

On the content side, and again as a first of its kind, IDEX and NAVDEX will each feature dedicated free-to-attend theatres for attendees to learn about the latest industry critical topics., NAVDEX Talks, located in the brand new marina hall, will focus on the naval defense industry, whereas IDEX Talks will include sessions that will cover a variety of engaging topics related to the global defense sector. These topics include Women and, Youth in Defence, Defense Heroes, and Motivational Masterclasses.

The events will also feature an area for fans of defense history. ‘Defence Through the Decades’ will showcase an interactive gallery style, highlighting products and technology from the industry throughout the past 30 years.

IDEX and NAVDEX provide a globally leading platform, showcasing the latest international defense innovations and technologies, along with the most advanced technology and equipment developed by defense industries across the world. The previous editions in 2021 recorded renowned success, welcoming over 62,000 visitors and more than 900 local, regional and international companies from 59 countries, in addition to hosting 35 national pavilions.

RADBAN 8X8APC shows at the dynamic demonstration during IDEX 2021. Photo: ADNEC

US Army Completes Successful Iron Fist Tests Series on Bradley Armored Fighting Vehicles

By

Tamir Eshel

-

Jan 5, 2023

Bradley-iron-fist-2017 — The Iron Fist configuration first tested on the Bradley in 2017. Photo: US Army

The US Army recently completed rigorous testing on the Iron Fist Active Protection System (APS) that showed significantly improved results over previous tests. The testing completed in October 2022 of the Iron Fist Light Decoupled (IFLD) system demonstrated improvements in both durability and system effectiveness, compared to the previous testing on the Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle.

Iron Fist Light Decoupled (IFLD) tested by the US Army in October 2022 includes a new version of the radar and a new electro-optical sensor augmenting the radar with passive sensing. Photo: US Army

In 2016, the Army chose to test the Iron Fist Lightweight Decoupled System to protect its medium- and light-armored vehicles. Initial testing in 2018 was set to validate the vendor’s (General Dynamics and Elbit Systems, Inc.) performance claims. The US Congress provided additional funding in the fiscal year 2022, toward the goal of equipping an entire Army brigade of Bradley vehicles in 2025 with continued funding.

“The Army is very pleased with the improved performance of this system,” said Maj. Gen. Glenn Dean, the Army’s program executive officer for Ground Combat Systems. “The software improvements since 2018 are more consistent and stable. We see continued future growth opportunities for the system, but this active protection system better protects our soldiers and vehicles on the battlefield.”

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Elbit Systems displayed the 50mm unmanned turret developed for the US Army OMFV program. The turret also has the Iron Fist integrated into the add-on armor. Photo: Defense-Update.

The system tested would make the Bradley significantly more survivable against threats such as rocket-propelled grenades and anti-tank guided missiles that have been demonstrated to be so lethal in Ukraine. The Iron Fist system is designed to protect armored and light armored platforms. Due to its lightweight, the Army potentially could equip a full range of ground combat vehicles, including upgrading legacy ground vehicle platforms previously constrained by size, weight, and power. An integrated active protection system is being considered with the development of the Army’s Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle, slated to replace the Bradley in coming years. OMFV is the U.S. Army’s first ground combat vehicle designed using modern digital engineering tools and techniques, with prototype testing expected in 2026.[/wlm_ismember]

The Iron Fist system consists of optical sensors, radar, and lightweight explosive projectile interceptors that counter-launch toward an incoming airborne threat such as a missile. The projectile explodes near the threat and away from the vehicle, deterring or defeating the threat while minimizing explosion damage to the vehicle and the soldiers. The Iron Fist has also been selected for the protection of Australian armored vehicles for the new Boxer reconnaissance vehicles and under the Land 400 phase 3, the Dutch CV9030NL upgrade, the Czech new CV9030CZ, and the Israeli Eitan 8×8 armored personnel carrier.

The Iron Fist system was displayed at the AUSA 2022 exhibition. Photo: Defense-Update

RAFAEL Enhances SPYDER with Counter-Ballistic Missile Capability

By

Tamir Eshel

-

Jan 4, 2023

Spyder-FIRING — Spyder MR/LR on firing trials. Photo: Rafael

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has announced it has enhanced its SPYDER air defense system with a Counter-TBM (tactical ballistic missiles) capability. The enhancement was developed in response to urgent operational requests from several customers. The program will extend the capabilities of the SPYDER’s effectors and implement various Counter-TBM derivatives across the system.

“This extremely important Counter-TBM feature will be offered as an option in the SPYDER’s toolbox. Under the SPYDER’s tailor-made solution paradigm, this capability will be offered as a cost-effective option to our valuable customers with respective urgent operational needs.” Executive Vice President and General Manager Air & Missile Defense Systems Division Brig. Gen. (Res.) Pinhas Yungman said.

Rafael’s Counter-TBM SPYDER program is based on research and analysis of lessons learned from recent and ongoing armed conflicts involving extensive use of tactical ballistic missiles. The program has upgraded the SPYDER system, which involves hardware and software updates to the system and its DERBY-LR interceptors. While the new features were added, all the system’s existing capabilities were retained, enabling all users to continue using Spyder systems while adding new applications. The system adds to Rafael’s C-RAM/C-TBM capability which is already addressed by David’s Sling and Iron Dome systems, offering solutions at different levels of performance and affordability.

DERBY-LR can intercept targets at an altitude of 50,000 to 60,000 ft at a maximum range of 80 km. The DERBY-LR is based on Rafael’s I-Derby ER, with a booster that more than doubles its engagement range from 40 to 80 km. Another air defense system from Rafael – David’s Sling, uses a bespoke interceptor to intercept ballistic and cruise missiles at ranges of 150 km and beyond, while Iron Dome the company’s C-RAM system, is designed to meet these threats at shorter ranges, but can also face large salvos.

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Spyder family operational envelope, source: Rafael

Each system has autonomous capabilities to detect threats and engage targets over 360°, within seconds of the target being declared hostile, in all-weather, multi-launch, and net-centric capabilities. All the SPYDER systems have multiple target engagement capabilities for handling saturation attacks.

In addition to the booster, the missile has a dual-pulse rocket motor, which enables optimal thrust management throughout the mission. The missile’s brain contains sophisticated algorithms to optimize trajectory according to launch conditions and target behavior. The missile uses Rafael’s software-controlled radar seeker, which allows full operational flexibility by controlling all operational parameters through software.

This capability enables upgraded missile performance against new threats, such as Electronic Warfare (EW) and new emerging aerial platforms. The software update process is quick and simple and can be performed promptly during combat operations. The missile also uses a two-way communication based on Rafael’s proven operational BNET Software-Defined Radio (SDR) family. The SPYDER Air Defense System has been widely exported to 10 countries worldwide, including the NATO-member Czech Republic. Finland is also interested in the system but has not publicly announced its decision.

SPYDER is an air transportable, quick reaction, surface-to-air missile system designed to counter attacks by aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, and precision-guided munitions. With the new upgrade, it is also capable of intercepting TBM. A Spyder LR system includes a truck-mounted radar, 3-6 missile firing units (MFU), and support vehicles. [/wlm_is member]

Spider MR fire unit on firing trials. Photo: RAFAEL

Oshkosh Defense to Produce Hundreds of Eitan Armored Vehicles for Israel

By

Tamir Eshel

-

Dec 28, 2022

Israel’s Ministry of Defense has selected Oshkosh Defense to produce hundreds of hulls for the IDF’s new wheeled Armored Personnel Carriers (APC). The announcement follows a process led by the Ministry of Defense’s Procurement Mission in the US, in cooperation with the Tank and APC Directorate. The program is likely to produce 500 vehicles, with hundreds more deliveries expected in the future. Eitan will replace M113s in service with the IDF since the late 1960s.

This program will produce hundreds of hulls, Eitan APC hulls. The first batch will arrive in Israel in about a year and a half to be fitted with the unmanned turret and systems. The final assembly of the vehicles will be done in Israel. The first batch of Eitan APCs is being produced in Israel, with deliveries of the first operational APCs to the IDF’s “Nahal” Brigade expected before the year’s end.

The deal with Oshkosh is estimated to be over US$100 million, financed by US military aid program. “This agreement, like many others, is thanks to our ironclad alliance with our American partners.” Head of the IMoD Procurement Mission, Brig. Gen. (res.) Michel Ben Baruch said. According to the Head of the Tank and APC Directorate in the Israel Ministry of Defense, Brig. Gen. Oren Giber, “The contract […] allows us to expand the project’s production resources to provide advanced APCs to the IDF.” The agreement presents further opportunities for the IMOD and Israeli defense industries to export the ‘Eitan’ APC and its deployed systems.

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[wlm_ismember]IMoD’s Tank and APC Directorate has developed the “Eitan” APC since 2014. Eitan can be powered by either a Caterpillar C18 or the MTU 6V890 diesel engine, developing 950-750 horsepower. Eitan can travel at a speed of 90 Km/H (56 MPH), over roads and off-road. It is claimed to be the world’s most protected wheeled APC. In an emergency, it can travel on wheels on highways and roads, without using the heavy transporters used to move tracked vehicles on roads.

Eitan can carry 12 personnel at maximum-level protection, provided by the passive armor and Iron Fist active protection system. Some vehicles will be equipped with remotely operated weapon stations; others will get an unmanned turret that mounts a 30mm automatic cannon, two independent sights for the commander and gunner, and a launcher for Spike LR anti-tank guided missiles retractable under the armor. All versions use an advanced, artificial-intelligence-empowered situational awareness system monitoring the vehicle’s surroundings, automatically detecting, identifying, and tracking targets of interest in real time.

The Eitan manufacturing agreement follows an earlier production contract awarded to General Dynamics Land Systems that produced hundreds of Namer hulls for the IDF since 2011. Oshkosh Defense has entered several collaborative programs with Israeli industries, including sourcing the armor protection suit for the Army’s Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) to subsidiaries of Israeli defense companies Plasan and OSG, and rearming the US Army Stryker 8×8 vehicles with a turret developed by Rafael.

An internal view of the Eitan. (SOurce: Yoav Zeitun, Yediot Aharonot)

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Photo and video credit: Tank and APC Directorate, Israel Ministry of Defense

Eitan 8×8 APC undergoing rough terrain.

Firing a Spike LR missile from a retractable launcher on the unmanned turret

Iron-Fist APS being tested on the Eitan

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