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    USMC Awards $79 million for foreign MRAP designs

    By
    aric
    -

    The second batch of orders worth of a total US$79 million for low-rate initial production MRAP vehicles were issued this week. The vehicles include the South African designed RG-31, the Australian Bushmaster and the new Golan vehicle, designed under a joint Israeli-US cooperation. Three manufacturers received orders for a total of 180 vehicles. Oshkosh Truck Corporation received $30 million to deliver 30 PVI designed Alpha armored vehicles, (defined as Category I, to be used as urban combat vehicles). Protected Vehicles, Inc. also received $37.4 million to deliver another 60 Golan heavy armored vehicles, produced under cooperation with Israel’s RAFAEL and Oshkosh Truck. These vehicles will comply with MRAP Category II – the Joint Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Rapid Response Vehicle JERRV) requirement, expected to be used for operations such as convoy lead, troop transport, ambulance, explosive ordnance disposal and combat engineering. General Dynamics Land Systems Canada received $11 million, for RG-31 armored vehicles, designed for Category I and Category II roles. The company will deliver 10 vehicles of each class. Deliveries of all vehicles is expected to complete within four months (by June 2007). Previous orders worthe $122 million for 200 vehicles were issued to BAE Systems and Force Dynamics. Both are based on South African designed vehicles, producted in the USA.

    Is America Losing its Strategic Hold on Central Asia?

    By
    David Eshel
    -

    Over the past two years, US relations with former Soviet Central Asia nations have collapsed, with Uzbekistan removing US Air Force air bases in 2005. For the United States be able to rapidly deploy troops to Middle East and Asian contingency locations, or have Air Force theater strike capability in the future, the US will need new Central Asian allies soon. One of these potential allies could perhaps become Turkmenistan. There are indications, that following two decades of isolationist policies of Saparmurat Niyazov’s iron rule, a new era may start in this former Soviet republic. With the death of Niyazov, last December, the new Turkmenistan President, Gurbanguli Berdymukhamedov, has already signaled his openness for liberalization.

    Although it might be too early to assess what this means to his view on relations with the United States and the West, analysts already contemplate this nation, based strategically along the Caspian, Afghanistan and Iran, becoming a potential ally. But not only the US has interest in Turkmenistan; its huge large untapped natural gas reserves (estimated at 2 trillion cubic meters) are of substantial interest to Russia and Europe. Until now, Turkmenistan is selling the bulk of its natural gas to Gazprom, the dominating Russian oil cartel, for processing so that the Russians can sell Turkmenistan natural gas to other countries. It would be much of advantage for the Turkmen to have an alternative shipping route for its natural gas via a pipeline through the Caspian Sea and tap into a new pipeline that could end up in Europe, thereby freeing Eastern Europe of the tyranny of Gazprom. Its geopolitical status as a stable neutral country bordering Iran and Afghanistan also offers considerable strategic advantages.

    But there are other important assets at stake. The former Soviet Republic used Turkmen air bases as springboard for its 1979 invasion into Afghanistan. Some of these were extended into strategic air bases and could be used by US Air Force deployments in the region. Mary air base (also sometimes referred to by its pre-Soviet name of Merv is located just 60 kilometers north of the Afghan border in the Murgab river valley and is the largest airbase in Central Asia. Other bases could become available at Ashgabat, Nebit-dag and Serdar. To win over the government, Washington could offer financial incentives in the form of loans, foreign investment and increased access to the IMF and the World Bank. America could also ease Turkmenistan’s security concerns by strengthening military ties in return for the use of Turkmen airspace airbases.

    US Transport Command C-17 and KC-135s parked at Manas airfield in Kyrgyzstan

    In July 2005, after the war in Afghanistan and Iraq saw an indefinite troop presence of U.S. forces in Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting at its summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, urged them to set a timetable for withdrawing their troops from member states. The SCO incorporates the Peoples Republic of China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Since then, Uzbekistan has asked the U.S. to leave the important Karshi-Kanabad (K2) Airbase. Accordingly, the Pentagon has expressed growing reservations over the future of US air and military bases in central Asia.

    Even the US major strategic air base at Manas Kyrgyzstan is coming under pressure. The landlocked, but strategically located Kyrgyzstan has emerged as Washington’s sole front-line state for confronting terrorism in Afghanistan and Manas airbase, located strategically close to the Chinese border of Xinjiang, is being critical to U.S. counter-terrorism strategy in Central and South Asia and has been a major asset for US forces in the region. But last December a serious incident at Manas, when a U.S. serviceman, from the base, fatally shot a Kyrgyz civilian at a checkpoint near the base, now threatens Washington’s sole remaining military facility in the former Soviet Union.

    Lines of USAF C-130 tactical airlifters parked at K-2 airfield in Uzbekistan.

    K-2 air base closure seems not to have had a drastic impact on US operations in southern Central Asia. The Afghan Bagram airbase near Kabul started receiving greater traffic, although not always fully secure for sustained operations. But the US aims to shift its logistical workload carried by K-2 eastwards to the Caspian region. Reports circulate already that the US will replace K-2 activities with a new airbase situated either at Nasosnaya near Baku, or Ganca in western Azerbaijan, which may indicate a clear shift in focus to the Caspianm environment. Perhaps significantly, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mamedyarov visited Washington soon after the K-2 eviction notice was served. US re-engagement in the Caspian would constitute a reversion to its pre-11 September regional policy. This prioritized the Caucasian states, firstly as a means to counter Russia’s tendency to view the region as its exclusive domain, and, secondly, to secure East–West hydrocarbon extraction and transit corridors that usefully avoided both Russia and Iran. A further move into Turkmenistan could complete this strategic deployment.


    Refocusing on the Caspian basin would make sense in the context of the maturation of its major hydrocarbon extraction and transit projects. The giant offshore Kashagan oilfield in Kazakhstan will be on stream by 2007, and should be able to link with the newly completed Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline soon afterwards. Moreover, the South Caucasus Pipeline project, currently under construction, is intended to link the vast Central Asian and Caspian natural gas reservoirs with the growing markets of Central and Eastern Europe. Although the Caspian basin’s significance as a global supplier of oil and gas should not be overstated, a strengthened US and Euro-Atlantic geopolitical presence in the region will provide additional security functions to combat terrorist activity directed at offshore oil facilities, strengthen commercial ties and offset China’s rapid emergence as a major commercial player in the Caspian basin.

    Indeed, China has become a major player in this region. In a successful bid to tap Kazakhstan’s oil, China’s state owned CITIC Group has recently won approval from the Kazakhstani government to buy the Karazhambas oil field (owned by Nations Energy of Canada) located near Aqtua on the Caspian Sea. This deal, worth US2$ billion, follows another bid, when Kazakhstan’s president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, approved the sale of Petrokazakhstan to China National Petroleum (CNOOC) in 2005. China is aware, as does the Anglo-American axis that energy is the key to its own national security, and China’s power elite is willing to resort to dramatic measures for every drop of oil and every watt of electricity.

    Moreover, barely acknowledged by the Western media, both China and Russia have conducted war games in Central Asia, in collaboration with their own coalition partners. Of special interest are these activities in Central Asia, under which military exercises involving the participation of Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are conducted under the Collective Security Treaty Organization, (CSTO). The Peoples Republic of China and Kazakhstan have also initiated war games last August. A similar operation was conducted last year by the PRC and Tajikistan, under the code-named “Cooperation-2006”. The fact is that in recent years, China has sought to make it presence felt in Central Asia to secure its strategic, economic and geo-political interests. Geographically, China is contiguous to three Central Asian countries – Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan – and its Turkic Muslim population in the north-western region of Xinjiang shares common history, tradition and culture with all the five former Soviet, central Asian republics.

    Russia is also stepping up its military presence in this region. In late September, Russia conducted air war exercises over a large part of its territory, extending from the the Saratov Air Base in the Volga region, to the very frontiers of Alaska and North America. These war games already prompted the scrambling of NORAD fighter planes. Last October 2006, in the latest round of Central Asian war games under CSTO auspices, joint Russian-Kyrgyz war exercises were held at Russia’s Kant airbase located some 30 km. from the Kyrgyz capital. Officially described as an “anti-terror drill”, these high profile exercises involved the deployment of Russian and Kyrgyz special forces units.

    Russia’s top brass and defense minister Sergei Ivanov were in attendance for the launching of the event. Reports indicate, that Russia’s 201st motorized infantry division in Tajikistan planned to redeploy its helicopters and planes, sofar using parts of Dushanbe airport, to the newly reconstructed Aini airbase, sharing its facilities with the Indian air forceMiG-29 stationed there.

    There is a consistent pattern to this recent development. These war games are not isolated events. They are part of a carefully coordinated endeavor, in response to the US-NATO military build-up in the region and should also be considered as acts of deterrence, intended to display military capabilities in deterring military action by a US led coalition.

    What is of growing concern to the Pentagon seems to be Russia’s recent upsurge in military activities in sensitive regions and Central Asia seems to be Russia’s high priority strategic objective. Three star general Michael Maples, director of the Pentagon’s Defense Intelligence Agency, warned that the Russian Army’s combat and theater-level training is now at its highest since the break-up of the Soviet Union. The United States is concerned because the Russian Defense Ministry is focusing on rearmament, modernization of available weapons and efforts to revive the defense industry. On February 7, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov addressed the State Duma, the lower house of parliament, at the Government Hour and said his Ministry would receive 821 billion rubles ($30.98 billion, or Euro 23.87 billion) in 2007, of which over 144 billion rubles ($5.43 billion, or Euro 4.19 billion) will be spent on the acquisition of new weapons. It is obvious that Russia’s theoretical opponents are worried about its enhanced defense capability, which seems to confirm the fact that Sergei Ivanov’s statements are not a mere rhetoric. Central Asia will no doubt remain high in focus during the next few months.

    IDEX 2007

    By
    admin
    -

    IDEX 2007 which is closing today (Feb. 22, 2007) has attracted 862 exhibitors, who have filled a record total of more than 32,000 square metres of both indoor and outdoor space. 50 countries are officially represented and there are 33 national pavilions. The exhibition has a high technology theme this year and is expected to host more than 90 official government and military delegations.

    This year Turkey was the largest national pavilion, in terms of overall booked space. Turkey has chosen IDEX 2007 to reinforce its strong and make its established position in the Middle East defense market. Other national pavilions increased in 2007 were the US, Taiwan, South Korea and Italy. IDEX 2007 has a new venue at the nearby Free Port of Mina Zayed. A fleet of 15 ships from seven countries are berthed at the Naval Berthing area of the Exhibition.

    This year many of these ships have been scheduled to visit Abu Dhabi as part of their ongoing deployment in the Arabian Gulf. Among them are two American mine countermeasures ships (MCM) along with mine hunting helicopter operated by the US Navy. Pakistan sent four four ships, including a missile boat, fast patrol boat, coastal tanker and submarine. Australia sent an ANZAC class frigate. Also represented were frigates from France and Germany a Italian corvette and a Sauro class submarine. Four UAE ships will also participate in the naval berthing display.


    Except for the static displays and the national pavilions, live demonstrations are always a popular focal point of IDEX. This year the mobility venue has attracted 29 displays from 10 countries of armored trucks, personnel carriers, mobile missile launchers, heavy armor and more. Marine and Amphibious Demonstration will once again take place in front of the Grandstand, fronting the exhibition.

    Yesterday’s highlight was the live fire demonstration in front of 150 military weapon experts featured small arms and counter terrorism weapons. where 150 top military weapons experts witnessed the Live Firing Demonstration held at IDEX 2007. Represented weapons included firearms from Russia, France, Switzerland, Finland, South Africa and the UAE, including pistols, rifles to machine guns.

    During the show, the UAE Armed Forces announced that it has signed deals with worth over 1,340 million Dirhams (Dhs.) – about US$360 million -with local and international companies participating at IDEX 2007. According to Major General Obaid Al Ketbi, Chief of Logistics at the UAE Armed Forces, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with EADS, to purchase three air tankers. General Al Ketbi also told reporters that the army was in talks with American communications supplier Harris to purchase telecommunication equipment worth Dhs 240 million ($65 million). Other orders were made with local companies. the services is procuring 12 fast patrol boats worth Dhs.127 million ($34.5 million) with the Abu Dhabi Ship Building Company (ADSB). International Golden Group, won a contract from the Armed Forces worth Dhs 390 million ($106 million) to supply 120mm mortars, The general also announced an Dhs18 million ($5 million) order of 10,000 pistols procured from the local arms producer Caracal.

    Other deals announced by El-Ketbi on Thursday (Feb 22, 2007) include Dhs. 228 million ($62 million) contract with DynCorp International for supporting UAE’s new F-16 Block 60 fighter planes, and Dhs. 343 million ($93.5 million) awarded to Abu Dhabi-based Gulf Aircraft Maintenance Co. (GAMCO) for the maintenance of BAE Systems Hawk MK 102, MK63 & MK61Advanced Jet Trainer aircraft.

    It was announced that the UAE has shortlisted BAE Systems’ proposed Hawk128 Advanced Jet Trainer, Aermacchi’s M-346 and Korean Aerospace’s T-50 for a future advanced trainer for its air force.

    IMI Develops Hybrid Armor to Defeat Sophisticated RSIEDs

    By
    admin
    -

    IMI is developing a new hybrid armor (passive) designed to withstand commonly used types of RoadSide IEDs (RSIED), including the sophisticated Explosively Formed Projectiles (EFP) and Self Formed Fragmentation (SFF) charges. The unique combination of the new hybrid armor is the result of extensive study conducted at IMI, in an attempt to protect warfighters at levels beyond those offered by conventional armor, with cost effective armor suite that can defeat both prevailing and future threats.

    The new hybrid armor will be applied as add-on modules for wheeled or tracked light armored vehicles. The new hybrid armor (passive) combines various materials designed to absorb the kinetic energy, mechanical deformation and ballistic damage created by the threat by mitigating and dissipating blast energy, and absorbing the kinetic energy of projectiles, fragments and EFP slugs, stopping multiple hits (according to STANAG) from small and medium caliber projectiles which is equal to 45-up to 60 mm of Rolled Homogenous Armor (RHA) while weighing half the weight of comparable steel. The armor kit is designed for field installation and removal. Damaged modules are designed for rapid replacement by field maintenance teams, without using special tools.

    In the future, IMI plans to integrate reactive components to this hybrid armor, offering comprehensive protection from more threats, including RPG’s.

    USAF Battlelab To Evaluate Cooperative UAV Operations

    By
    admin
    -

    The United States Air Force will evaluate cooperative flight of several unmanned aircraft flying in constellation formation, while simultaneously distributing sensor control and viewing capability among multiple end users. The test will utilize the SkyForce Distributed Management System (DMS) developed by Proxy Aviation, controlling SkyWatcher and SkyRaider UAVs, also produced by Proxy.


    The first phase of demonstrations took place early February 2007 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., where a single SkyWatcher successfully demonstrated cooperative flight with three simulated UAVs. SkyForce DMS is designed to control up to 12 fully autonomous air vehicles engaging in concurrent, cooperative flight. The system enables each vehicle to make fully independent decisions during flight, contributing to the group tactical goal, without any human intervention.

    In the first flight phase conducted at Eglin Test Range , a single SkyWatcher UAV successfully demonstrated cooperative flight with three simulated SkyWatchers, each UAV performing a different role and operating a unique sensor package. The cooperative constellation demonstrated adaptive autonomy using SkyForce DMS and the Virtual Pilot capability that are key software components of the SkyForce system. The single SkyWatcher flew four simulated constellation maneuvers and autonomously operated an onboard FLIR sensor, a thermal imaging and infrared camera, while simultaneously maneuvering with the other three UAVs through several operational scenarios.

    IMI Develops Hybrid Armor to Defeat Sophisticated RSIEDs

    By
    admin
    -

    IMI is developing a new hybrid armor (passive) designed to withstand commonly used types of RoadSide IEDs (RSIED), including the sophisticated Explosively Formed Projectiles (EFP) and Self Formed Fragmentation (SFF) charges. The unique combination of the new hybrid armor is the result of extensive study conducted at IMI, in an attempt to protect warfighters at levels beyond those offered by conventional armor, with cost effective armor suite that can defeat both prevailing and future threats.

    The new hybrid armor will be applied as add-on modules for wheeled or tracked light armored vehicles. The new hybrid armor (passive) combines various materials designed to absorb the kinetic energy, mechanical deformation and ballistic damage created by the threat by mitigating and dissipating blast energy, and absorbing the kinetic energy of projectiles, fragments and EFP slugs, stopping multiple hits (according to STANAG) from small and medium caliber projectiles which is equal to 45-up to 60 mm of Rolled Homogenous Armor (RHA) while weighing half the weight of comparable steel. The armor kit is designed for field installation and removal. Damaged modules are designed for rapid replacement by field maintenance teams, without using special tools.

    In the future, IMI plans to integrate reactive components to this hybrid armor, offering comprehensive protection from more threats, including RPG’s.

    Lightweight Prime Mover to Tow USMC’s M777 Guns

    By
    admin
    -

    The U.S. Marine Corps have received the initial four Lightweight Prime Mover (LWPM) vehicles from Lockheed Martin’s [NYSE: LMT] Tactical Wheeled Vehicle (TWV) program. The LWPM will tow the new M777 lightweight 155-mm artillery howitzer. After undergoing a production qualification test at the Nevada Automotive Test Center, the LWPM will undergo an operational field user’s evaluation. Under the current contract, the Marine Corps has the option for full-rate production of 120 LWPM vehicles.


    The LWPM rides on a height-adjustable chassis and central tire inflation system that automatically adjusts air pressure to enhance all-terrain mobility. Future production vehicles will accept appliqué armor. The vehicle is designed for improved rollover protection.

    The vehicle is based on the LM4x4 truck, built on the proven High Mobility Transport design which excells with its unique weight-to-payload ratio, enabling the less than 10,000-pound vehicle to easily tow the 10,000-pound M777 howitzer. The LM4x4 is air-transportable inside the C-130 Hercules tactical transport aircraft. The vehicle also can be externally carried by the CH-53E helicopter and the MV-22 tilt-rotor aircraft.

    In addition to the LWPM contract, Lockheed Martin also delivered a technology demonstration utility vehicle to the U.S. Army for its Future Tactical Truck System Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration program. The vehicle will be used to help refine the requirements for the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle.

    Raytheon Offers More Efficient Ground Control for the Predator

    By
    admin
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    Raytheon Company has developed an advanced common ground control system (CGCS), and is proposing the system as ‘unsolicited proposal’ for use by the U.S. Air Force’s Predator UAV units, promising a ‘dramatic improvement’ in the efficiency of man-machine interface, related to the operation of unmanned aircraft systems.

    According to Mark Bigham, business development director for Raytheon’s Intelligence and Information Systems business, “Our unsolicited bid for the Predator ground control system will address significant decreases in required aircrew manpower, faster training and greatly reduce mishap rates previously attributed to human-machine interface or pilot error.

    It also enables more aircraft to be controlled by the same number of operators, increasing more unmanned aircraft systems in operation.” Raytheon has been working with combat-tested UAS operators and trainers for more than two years to develop a CGCS that puts the human operator into the UAS ‘cockpit’ – said Bigham. He indicated that the proposed system is also compatible with improved Predator operations centers currently being fielded to the U.S. Air National Guard. “The CGCS will help the current Predator contractor maximize the number of unmanned aircraft systems operators can fly, ultimately helping to meet Secretary of Defense Gates’ goal of ‘more ISR now.'” said Bigham.

    Raytheon says it can produce the first CGCS system in less than 12 months with data support from platform primes and adequate funding support for the Department of Defense. Raytheon predicts that during the next 10 years, it can save the Air Force more than $500 million. The five cost savings benefits are:

    • Reduce manpower requirements by 20 percent
    • Reduce ground control segment requirements by 20 percent
    • Reduce training time and costs by 30 percent
    • Reduce aircraft losses by 50 percent

    The US Navy Broad Area Marine Surveillance (BAMS) Program

    By
    admin
    -

    BAMS will supply the US Navy with persistent global intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance system to protect the fleet and provide a capability to detect, track, classify and identify maritime, littoral and land targets. three companies are competing on this program. Teams are led by Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin and Boeing.

    Mariner UAV, Photo: General Atomics

    The Lockheed Martin teaming includes General Atomics, offering the Mariner Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) designed for operations at an altitude of 45,000 ft.. The proposed solution will augment a fleet of manned maritime surveillance platforms, such as the Lockheed martin P3C and future P-8A (MMA) aircraft. The platform proposed by the team is the Mariner, a high altitude derivative of the Predator B (Reaper) system, designed to operate as an all-weather, multi-mission altitude agile, persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance asset supporting naval operations. Mariner shares several systems with the Reaper, including major fuselage elements, avionics, flight controls and powerplant (both are using the Honeywell TPE-331-10GD turbo prop engine with 49 kVA power generator).

    Northrop Grumman is offering the maritime derivative of the Global Hawk, designated RQ-4N for the BAMS program. According to Northrop Grumman, BAMS will benefit from a HALE platform, since the whole program could utilize only five orbits operating at a range of 2,000 nautical miles, or even three, operating at 3,000 nmi orbits, thus minimizing the operating bases required for the global mission with assured worldwide access to all mission areas, independent on local operating bases. The company claims that the HALE platform is better positioned to support ISR missions conducted over very large areas, since these platforms can support the highest rate of ‘target revisit’, in order to determine its status, location, heading and intentions.

    The Optionally Piloted G550 is the platform proposed by Boeing for BAMS. It will augment the P-8A maritime patroller. (Photo: Boeing)Boeing is offering an optionally piloted platform for BAMS, based on a special mission Gulfstream G550 platform, currently in US Navy service. Boeing popposes to leverage the investments made in its P-8A Posedon to ensure a high degree of commonality between the manned and unmanned maritime surveillance platforms. Boeing’s BAMS team also includes Gulfstream, Raytheon, Rolls-Royce and Honeywell. In the BAMS configuration the unmanned G550 has a maximum takeoff weight of 95,000 lbs (43,250 kg). It will offer mission endurance of 16 hours, operational ceiling of 51,000 ft and top speed of 480 knots (440 kt. Cruise and 350 kt loiter). The aircraft will be fitted with an advanced digital radar system and EO/IR sensor, navigation radar, due regard optical system based in a conformal ‘gondola’ shaped bay, ESM sensors, common datalink and wideband satellite coms.

    Operators in a combat/hazardous environment are often subjected to situations that test the limits of physical and cognitive abilities. Input devices for human-technology interaction therefore must be flexible, easy to use, and must reflect the potential need for common control of computer-based assets such as a robot or wearable computer.

    Topics covered in AUVSI 2007 review:

    The P-8A maritime patrol aircraft (MMA) from Boeing (Photo: Boeing)

    Robotic Security Vehicles at AUVSI 2007

    By
    admin
    -

    One of the most mature applications of robotic vehicles is perimeter security and sentry missions. At AUVSI, three robotic platforms designed for such missions were displayed or discussed. These included the MDRAS which has already been integrated with operational security systems protecting military facilities in the USA. This robotic vehicle was developed by General Dynamics Robotic Systems, and demonstrated at the Webster Field prior to AUVSI 07. Two additional vehicles were on display at the exhibition – the Defender, a robotic armed security vehicle developed by the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) and RAPTRS based on John Deer and iRobot’s R-Gator, modified for sentry missions by Navy Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center.

    RAPTRS

    A UGV developed at the US Navy Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center, San Diego is the Recon Adaptive Patrol Tactical Robotic System (RAPTRS) developed at SPAWAR utilizes the John Deer’s R-Gator robotic platform, developed by i-Robot. The vehicle is designed to operate as an unmanned patrol sentry, guarding the base perimeter. Utilizing obstacles and object avoidance algorithms, RAPTRS can operate autonomously over a known terrain; identify obstacles, as well as moving objects such as parked cars, moving cars and people. It is designed to automatically avoid such obstacles, while performing its mission.

    Defender

    The Robotics Development and Research group at the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is pursuing a different sentry known as Defender – described as an automated perimeter security (APS) ‘engagement platform’. The Defender is built on a high mobility all terrain vehicle, capable of traveling at a speed of 35 mph., over rough terrain. The vehicle is fitted with color cameras to provide video feedback and road view for the driver. The vehicle can patrol continuously for up to six hours equipped with strobe flashing light system, a speaker microphone system and both lethal and non lethal weapons, comprising pepper spray fogger M-16A2 rifle or M240/249 machine guns.

    MDARS

    General Dynamics displayed its Mobile detection Assessment Response System (MDARS), a small diesel powered four wheel vehicle used as a robotic patrol platform. The 3,500 lbs vehicle can carry up to 500 lbs of payload, and operate at a speed up to 20 mph for 16 hours. Its payload comprises a video cameras and two-way audio communications. Its primary mission is to patrol secured areas, tracking potentially dangerous intruders without risking human guards. The robot autonomously and randomly patrols around inventory sensitive warehouses, airfields, ammunition supply depots and port facilities. It can monitor RFID tagged inventories, and determine the status of inventory, batteries and locks while detecting intruders, maintaining visual contact, alerting other forces and conducting first response countermeasures. MDARS was developed for the joint program office force protection systems and, since 2004, has been deployed by civilian guards at the Hawthorne Army Depot. By 2010 the system is expected to support guards operations in six depots in the USA. GDRS is currently developing a naval surface vessel to assume similar roles guarding ports and coastal facilities.

    Combat Engineering Robots

    Applied Research Associates (ARA) from the USA and FrontRunner Robotics, a joint venture led by Israel Aerospace Industries, InRob Tech and Zoko Enterprises, both developed robotic applications for the Caterpillar Multi Terrain Loader (MTL). ARA’s demonstrated its Modular Robotic Control System (MRCS) at the AUVSI 07, the MRCS kit equipped a Cat 247B MTL customized for handling heavy unexploded ordnance. The vehicle can be fitted with various attachments, including grappler, IED disruptor, forks, bucket, backhoe, or mission specific sensors. A version of this vehicle is customized for the US Army Nemesis demining vehicle. Nemesis will utilize the robotic vehicle with counter-mine systems automatically detecting anti-personnel and anti-tank mine. For FrontRunner, AUVSI 07 provided the first introduction of the new robotic MTL. A week later, this vehicle was demonstrated at the Force Protection exhibition in the USA (FPED 07). The Israeli MTL Weighs 3.8 tons and can lift up to 1.5 tons or push up to 2.5 tons. The standard tool is the blade, but many other tools can be attached for specific missions. Apart from the standard tools the FrontRunner can also mount a remotely controlled weapon station carrying a machine gun or grenade launchers.

    Another UGV program that will soon be operational in Israel is the border patrol robot. The IDF plans to introduce the first version of the autonomous, unmanned border patroller developed by Genius Unmanned Ground Systems company, a joint ventrure between Israel Aerospace Industries and Elbit Systems. The vehicle will be based on a lightweight, all-terrain Jeep Wrangler size platform. A full coverage of this program will soon be published by Defense Update.

    Back Packable Robots

    iRobot displayed a wide range of PackBot UGVs, tailored for different missions utilizing various payloads and sensors. The company introduced the multi-sensor RedOwl Sniper Detection Kit, enabling detection and targeting of hostile threats. Red Owl packs an impressive, integrated package of acoustic and imaging sensor s to support dismounted infantry combat missions.Eventually, the Red Owl package will be reduced in size to fit the furure Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle (SUGV) Early designed for the FCS program.

    A version of this new unmanned vehicle is the “SUGV Early”, displayed by Boeing and iRobot. Early will weigh about 30 pounds (14 kg), about 30% lighter than the current PacBot. The robot will be able to carry a maximum payload weight of 6 pounds (2.7 kg.) It will be smaller, and fit into standard MOLLE or ALICE back packs. The robot will be waterproof when fully submerged at depths up to 9.8 feet 3 meters. The tracked mobility system, similar to the PacBot’s allows the new robot to climb stairs, drive over rubble or through tunnels and over difficult terrain. It will be powered by standard rechargeable BB2590 military batteries.

    Protonex, a fuel cell technology developer introduced at AUVSI a new fuel cell processor and replaceable cartridges, storing 720 W/h each. The ProCore fuel cell system generates 2-4 times the energy density of advanced batteries, significantly extending the run time of ground robots or UAVs and increasing their payload carrying capability. The cell generates full power within 60 seconds from activation, for up to 24 hours. A fuel cell with three fuel cartridges replaces three BA5590 batteries, saving 62% on weight, 50% on size and about 20% on cost per mission.

    Command and Control for UGVs

    To effectively control unmanned ground vehicles in combat conditions, General Dynamics Robotics Systems developed the Thor, a scalable battle management system, designed for robotic and unmanned systems. The system enables the small combat unit to operate various unmanned systems as part of their routine activities providing situational understanding, battle management, mission planning and execution. Thor supports four levels of control, including tele-operation of vehicles and payloads, autonomous tactical behaviors incorporating movement, vision, and shooting skills, automatic planning and computerized aids assisting in the rapid execution of time critical tasks. The system also supports collaborative operation, communicating between multiple platforms, sensors and users.

    Another control system called V-Star was displayed by Tadiran Systems. This video receiving system, provides the warfighter a single ‘all-in-one’ console, integrating video receiving, support of situational picture buildup, and advanced imagery analysis. Advanced services include correlation between images and maps, video enhancement and image processing, and optional data transmission capability. The system can be utilized as a command and control element for unmanned systems, as well as supporting other remotely controlled sensors. Another remote control device called visually integrated sensor (VIS) was introduced by AnthroTronix. VIS, currently under development, will be used as an imaging and orientation device as well as a display and control to guide unmanned systems.

    During a firefight, warfighters are focusing on their surrounding and could be distracted by manually controlling a robot. Various types of control devices introduced at AUVSI07 show some of the more mature systems which could be used to control future robots. AnthroTronix also introduced other innovative devices designed to enable intuitive control of robotic systems and UGVs. Among these were the instrumented glove (iGlove), which operates as an ‘air joystick’, enabling unobtrusive and dexterous control of uunmanned systems, including EOD robots, a patent pending weapon mounted force controller (MFC), and the vibrotactile Feedback belt, (VFB), providing feedback from a remote sensor, indicating directional or situational information by silent, non visual sensory stimulus.

    Another application developed by Think-a-Move specifically for the PacBot robotic vehicles family introduces heads-up, hands free control of the system. The new system uses speech commands and tongue signals to control the robot. It relies on a special earpiece that picks distinct sounds created in the ear canal, by tongue movement or whisper. These signals are interpreted and used to replace standard mechanical controls. The system can differentiate between operators, and is effective in noisy environments.

    Topics covered in AUVSI 2007 review:

    UAV Payloads at AUVSI 2007

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    Several companies introduced new and advanced payload systems at AUVSI 07. Among these were AST, presenting the lightweight Cell Spotter system to covertly monitor cellular communications traffic over a limited area. Enerdyne introduced a new hardware add-on which can be easily installed on any UAV, enabling users to send high capacity digital feed over existing analog datalinks. Controp, AeroMech and CloudCap unveiled new versions of stabilized payloads weighing under two pounds each, designed specifically for emerging mini-UAVs while Rockwell Collins unveiled the new TacVue Mini-SAR designed for small UAVs, developed in cooperation Sandia Labs.

    CellPhone Spotter

    Applied Signal Technology (AST) is offering several types of electronic payloads enhancing target acquisition and identification from unmanned aerial systems. These include the Model 580 STYX small-size wireless interrogator, designed for interrogation of wireless communications using CDMA protocol. The system weighs only 7 pounds and consumes 7-12 watts that actively interacts with the cell station to obtain a mobile identification of dialed numbers from cellphones operating at any direction, over a distance of about 100 meters. Targets at longer distances can be obtained using directional antennae. STYX can operate in stealth mode, without any interruption of calls in progress. Alternatively, the STYX can operate passively to collect cal activity messages from a base station and nearby cell phones, including SMS messages, paging messages and responses and calls.

    Another COMINT system developed by AST for UAVs is the Hydra. This system integrates adaptive beam forming and direction finding systems configured into small-size package. The system uses a software defined radio architecture to host a variety of signal-specific applications. The prototype Hydra has eight RF channels covering the 20-3000MHz range with 25 MHz IF bandwidth. The system weighs 30 pounds and consumes 180 watts. Further enhancements of the Hydra will include GSM identification and monitoring of GSM emitters, including the ability to geolocate each emitter.

    Advanced Datalinks

    Cubic Corp. and Rockwell Collins performed the first successful flight test of the Mini Common Data Link (CDL) system linking a King Air aircraft and a KillerBee unmanned system with ground stations. The prototype M-CDL weighs 1.5 pounds and demonstrated communications over a distance of 20 miles transmitting signals at data rates up to 10.7 Mbps. The tests support the US military’s goal of developing CDL terminals that meet the payload restrictions of small unmanned aerial systems (SUAS) platforms and enable data link communications with current ground systems. Existing CDL systems are too heavy and too large to fit within SUAS platforms. The Mini TCDL is designed to operate at rates up to 45 Mbps and achieves interoperability with other vendor units through compliance with current DoD CDL waveform specifications.

    A new datalink innovator at AUVSI was Enerdyne Technologies, a subsidiary of ViaSat. The company that specialized in video compression is now introducing a conversion system enabling analog datalinks to transfer digital signals at high data rates. Analog links are s widely used with current UAVs, including most of the MALE, SUAVs, mini and micro UAVs. The system uses a signal modulator that ‘superimposes’ a digital protocol over a standard analog link. After the conversion the link can carry digital data rates of 4-5 Mbps data. The signals are demodulated at the ground station using a special receiver provided by Enerdyne. The airborne segment weighs only four ounces (100 gr.) and its power consumption is very low. It can be installed in a UAV within few hours.

    Miniature Stabilized EO Payloads

    AeroMech Engineering introduced the TigerEye miniature EO payload designed for small UAS (SUAS). The five inch diameter turret weighs 1.7 pounds in the EO configuration (0.1 lb heavier for the IR version)is designed for unmanned aerial and ground vehicles, with interface to the Cloud cap plug and play operating systemcomplying with CAN or serial bus interface. TigerEye uses on board video processor providing electronic image stabilization and hardware embedded target tracking. The design uses a quick change of sensors in the field, without special tools. Optional sensors include a Sony EX980S camera with x26 zoom, a Flir Photon with 50 mm lense, a laser illuminator or low light CCD imager.

    Cloud Cap Technologies offers several versions of its lightweight payload known as TASE weighing about 1 kg. The payload can accommodate a number of sensors, including daylight cameras such as the Sony EX980S with x26 zoom or EX480C with 18x zoom. A range of FLIRs is also available for this payload, including the FLIR Photon Block II core (324×256) with a single or dual lense, Thermoteknix Miricle modules (384×288 or 640×480) or a Short Wave InfraRed (SWIR) 320×240 sensor from Goodrich. Cloud Cap also offers a unique mechanism retracting the TASE gimbal into the aircraft to support belly landing or other operations. The entire mechanism adds only 280 grams to the payload weight while eliminating the need for much heavier parachute, airbag or landing carriage.
    Controp Precision Technologies from Israel, a pioneer in the field of miniature EO turrets for UAVs, unveiled enhanced versions of its STAMP miniature stabilized payload at AUVSI 07, introducing an operational Uncooled IR sensor packed version (U-STAMP) for the first time. This payload weighing only one kilogram is designed for nighttime missions, and, according to Controp, has already been delivered to several customers worldwide. According to Controp, the 3 axis gyro stabilization of the STAMP platform’s line of sight provides unique attributes to this turret, including highly stable video imaging including high quality pictures in full zoom, without vibrations or jittering, It also provides continuous target tracking regardless of aircraft attitude and motion. Wide field of regard and the ability to ‘point to coordinates’ makes this small payload simple to use and highly efficient when operated by ordinary soldiers.

    TacVue MiniSAR

    Enabling effective tactical battlefield reconnaissance/surveillance from UAS or manned platform applications, today’s unmanned/manned vehicle platforms need superior all weather, obscurant, day/night operational radar systems for all environments. Towards this requirement, Rockwell Collins and Sandia National Laboratories have joined together to develop a high performance Synthetic Aperature Radar (SAR) system. With Sandia’s radar experience and Rockwell Collins’ ability to manufacture field-grade reliable products for use in harsh environments, we ensure unmanned/manned vehicle platforms superior radar performance. The radar operates at the Ku band (16.8 GHz) providing 4-inch resolution imagery from a distance of 10 kilometers or 1 meter resolution from 23 km. Images can be used for identification and accurate geo-location of small targets at a geolocation error level of 25 meters. The current system weighs about 27 lbs, with future version downsized to about 18 lbs.

    Topics covered in AUVSI 2007 review:

    UAS/Mission Control Systems

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    Several companies introduced new and advanced controls and payload systems at AUVSI 07. Among these were General Atomics, introducing their Next Generation Ground Control Station just prior to the event, Raytheon demonstrating their Multi Vehicle Control System (MVCS), a derivative of the UCS Ground Control System and IAI, introducing the latest version of the ground control console, known as iUCS.

    AST, presenting the lightweight Cell Spotter system to covertly monitor cellular communications traffic over a limited area. Enerdyne introduced a new hardware add-on which can be easily installed on any UAV, enabling users to send high capacity digital feed over existing analog datalinks. Controp, AeroMech and CloudCap unveiled new versions of stabilized payloads weighing under two pounds each, designed specifically for emerging mini-UAVs while Rockwell Collins unveiled the new TacVue Mini-SAR designed for small UAVs, developed in cooperation Sandia Labs.

    Israel Aerospace industries unveiled at AUVSI 07 its latest concept for the modular ground control system called iUCS. The new system will support all of Malat’s UAV fleet. The first UAV to be supported by the new system is the IAI/Malat Heron, and IAI’s latest entry into the MALE market – the Eitan (Heron TP).

    The new system fully supports STANAG 4586 ergonomically designed with a stacked mount supporting multiple displays and control table with a small footprint. The stacked design considerably saves space enabling multiple operators to comfortably work in a small shelter. The same display mount can converted into a ‘side by side’ configuration where space is available.

    Procerus Technologies introduced an airborne and ground segment ensemble featuring the Kestrel autopilot, associated with the ‘virtual cockpit’ ground control software and ‘OnPoint’ targeting system. Kestrel is a 16.7 gram autopilot, designed for autonomous flight. Controlled by the ‘Virtual Cockpit’, Kestrel automatically follows a‘click and fly’ commands performed by the operator. The Kestrel includes the autonomous GPS navigation system, an inertial measurement unit, and payload communications and support. The OnPoint targeting application offers precision target tracking initiated by a click of a mouse, localization and video stabilization. In addition to the Virtual Cockpit controls, it also enables ‘Click and Fly’ vision based flight control, by dragging the mouse over a visible target or flight route to initiate a new task.

    Several companies introduced advanced image provessing designed to improve the products or overcome the limitations of EO payloads currently used by UAVs. For example, Toyon developed novel video tracking algorithms that can effectively track multiple targets in video collected by low-cost small UAVs using unstable imaging systems. The company also developed the wireless communications algorithms and supporting hardware for these applications. Another system was presented by Pyramid Vision, which launched their Video Quest product which can be integrated into the TeraMax 3D system showing the payload image in still photo or image, inlaid in the proper perspective ‘footprint’ on a 3d map or ortophoto to improve situational awareness, thus eliminating the ‘soda straw’ views of traditional payloads.

    With Video Quest, the real-time video can be enhanced with with online geodatabase, automatically tagging and storing new streams with metadata and retrieving stored media for further analysis upon request. A search can be performed based on location, time, movement or other historical features. Video retrieval is performed much rapidly, compared to standard video recording systems. Future versions of VideoQuest will also feature ‘quality search’ reducing the time spent in downloading unusable videos, such as blurred videos or feeds with heavy cloud coverage. Other enhancements anticipated with future version include the integration of laser rangefinder to reduce geolocation error. Currently, the geolocation accuracy depends on the payload and sensors, average geolocation error provided by the system is within 10 meters. TerraMax and VideoQuest are already fielded with the US Army’s PTSD aerostat borne sensor system and with the ScanEagle UAV system. It will also be used with the Army’s Sky Warrior UAV systems.

    Kutta Consulting unveiled its unified ground control station (UGCS) interface, developed for the US Army small UAV systems. This interface was supporting Rockwell Collins’ Mini SAR. This intercafe packs a sophisticated control into a small hand held module such as a PDA or tablet PC. The fully functional UGCS is a lightweight STANAG 4586 compliant controller offering advanced features such as 3D or 2D flight planning, full VGA real-time video display with post-flight reviews, autonomous ‘point’ and ‘flow’ modes of operation, 2D or 3D footprint with terrain shadowing, grid search modes, automatic routing and intelligent health monitoring. For the Army project Kutta teamed with Boeing Phantom Works, Advanced Ceramics Research (ACR), and Neural Robotics Incorporated. Other uses for this hand controller include homeland Security, and first responder applications.

    Topics covered in AUVSI 2007 review:

    Unmanned Monster Vehicles Designed for Heavy Transport

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    New unmanned vehicles are being proposed to carry heavy cargo mission, such as tanks, armored vehicles and supply logistics over long distances, as well as from ship to shore hauling heavy vehicles and outsized cargo loads. Two concepts were unveiled at AUVSI 07 – the Hybrid Unmanned Air Vehicle (HUAV), developed by Lockheed Martin, and the T-Craft, designed by General Dynamics.

    Hybrid airship/aircraft, developed by Lockheed Martin (Photo: Lockheed Martin)

    Combining buoyancy and aerodynamic lift, HUAV is creating an aircraft capable of carrying payloads of up to 2,500 – 12,000 pounds to an altitude of 20,000 ft, maintaining long persistence over the target area, at costs significantly lower than other manned or unmanned platforms. While the 250 foot long HUAV is designed for long persistence, cruising slowly at about 20 knots, it will also be able to move from one location to another at a top speed of 60 knots. HUAV will be ideally suited for long dwell missions (over 7 days without refueling) over low-threat environments. The large volume available for the payload enables the integration of sensors having very large aperture (up to 100 ft long, 20 ft wide). According to Lockheed Martin, the HUAV could be fully developed within 24 – 30 months and, if sufficiently funded, could fly by 2010.

    Lockheed Martin is also planning a much larger version of the hybrid aircraft, capable of delivering heavy cargo over a range of 2,000 miles. The hybrid airship/aircraft will be constructed from high-strength fabrics providing buoyancy and aerodynamic lift. Its large size will accommodate outsized cargo, or 10 – 14 standard pallets weighing up to 50 tons. It will be equipped with four pusher thrust vectoring propellers and a landing system utilizing four air cushions enabling the airship to be airfield independent, land and takeoff from short unprepared surfaces. The crew controlling the hybrid aircraft will use on board weather monitoring and route planning to establish the best, safest flight route for the aircraft.

    Completely different concept is pursued by General Dynamics, with the T-Craft Captive Air Amphibious Transporter (CAAT). The program addresses the Office of Naval Research (ONR) Seabasing Innovative Naval Prototype program, with an unmanned floating vessel capable of transverse sand bar and mud flats, offering the US Marines Corps with ‘feet dry on the beach” capability. CAAT will be able to carry twice the load of current amphibious landing crafts (LCAC), deployed from flat bed vessels such as LHDs and future Catamaran landing support ships. At AUVSI CAAT was displayed wit a load of two M-1 tanks and two HMMWVs. The autonomously controlled vessels will be propelled by linked buoyant cells forming a track-like propulsion system. Each vessel will have two tracks enabling forward and backward motion and steering by differential movement. The CAAT concept is currently under evaluation and, if funded, could become reality within a few years.

    Topics covered in AUVSI 2007 review:

    HALE UAVs Come of Age

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    The High Altitude, Long Endurance mission profile was never meant to be used with manned platform, but is perfectly suited for unmanned systems. Only few manned aircraft are prepared to fly and operate at these altitudes. The thin air at the Tropopause limits the use of conventional engines, but opens new horizons for surveillance, communications and electronic eavesdropping activities. After overcoming the technical obstacles, mission planners could benefit from unobstructed operations at altitudes well above civilian or military air traffic. At these altitudes, the atmosphere is calm, the thin air causes reduced drag, resulting in less energy required to maintain higher ground speed. Aircraft flying at these lofty altitudes are well above the jet stream and other high velocity currents, averaging 40 – 80 knots in speed, with peaks of up to 160 knots. These currents encountered at the high troposphere, at altitudes between 20,000 to 35,000 ft., usually affect the performance of aircraft operating at medium altitudes.

    Until the early 2000s, only few manned platforms could soar to such heights. One of the first to explore these altitude was the Lockheed U-2 strategic reconnaissance aircraft, designed in the late 1950s. A decade later, the SR-71A strategic reconnaissance aircraft, unofficially known as the “Blackbird,” was used as long-range, advanced, strategic reconnaissance aircraft. The first flight took place on Dec. 22, 1964. Then the ‘Blackbird’ served for 22 years providing strategic reconnaissance missions and was retired in 1990 only to return five years later to fill a critical recce gap. Throughout its nearly 24-year career, the SR-71 remained the world’s fastest and highest-flying operational aircraft. The SR-71 flew at more than three times the speed of sound (Mach 3) at altitudes in excess of 80,000 feet (approximately 15 miles high).

    The successor of the U-2, the U-2R ‘Dragon Lady’ is still operational today. Designed for high-altitude intelligence and reconnaissance missions, this aircraft can fly above 70,000 feet and carry some o the most advanced long-range reconnaissance gear available today. Its mission payloads include highest resolution SAR radar in service today, as well as sophisticated SIGINT systems. Providing near-real-time imagery and signals intelligence to warfighters and national authorities, the ‘Dragon Lady’ was used extensively during operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003 and provided important damage assessment information after Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf of Mexico in 2005.

    With the arrival of the RQ-4A Global Hawk, the missions of U-2R were reduced to those specific services which could not be supported yet by the unmanned platform. These missions will be transferred to the Global hawk fleet in the next decade, as the RQ-4B (Block 20, 30 and 40) aircraft are fielded, capable of carrying heavier payloads, including SIGINT and advanced SAR payloads.

    Global Hawk may be dominating the high altitudes today, but in the near future, it will have to share those heights with more unmanned platforms. One such system is theIntegrated Sensor Is Structure (ISIS) developed by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. ISIS will provide a new model for persistent, autonomous ISR platform. Utilizing a stationary stratospheric airship, ISIS will establish a position on the ‘high ground’ at an altitude of 70,000 ft. This airship will be deployed for long missions, staying in position for one, five or even ten years. It will provide a persistent early warning sensor able to detect cruise missiles at distances of 600 kilometers or dismounted enemy combatants at a range of 300 km.

    Smaller but but not less effective for its proposed mission is the Global Observer high altitude UAV system developed by Aerovironment. This aircraft was designed to provide long dwelling stratospheric capability with global range and no latitude restrictions. Operating at these heights, the platforms provides ‘near space’ capability comparable to satellites, providing services such as persistent ISR and communications relay, including dedicated communications support and satellite link redundancy for other UAVs.

    Another system under development by Aurora Flight Science and Boeing is the the Orion, High Altitude, Long Loiter (HALL) Unmanned Aerial System. This stratospheric platform will be able to cruise at an altitude of 65,000 ft for about 100 hours, powered by reciprocating engines consuming liquid hydrogen fuel. With a gross takeoff weight of 7,000 lbs (3.175 tons) HALL will be able to carry payloads weighing about 400 lbs (181kg). The U.S. Army/SMDC is supporting a team lead by Aurora and Boeing as a strategic partner, developing two Orion HALL platforms, to demonstrate the new technology. First flight is expected by 2009. Aurora and Boeing have also teamed since 2004 on a Boeing-led concept definition study of a twin-engine, larger unmanned platform designed for missions over a week long, carrying multi-sensor payloads weighing up to 2,000 lbs.

    Flying at the edge of space in the high stratosphere, a future unmanned aircraft could one day carry weapons or other payloads anywhere in the world within few hours, or deploy cargo to lower space orbit, responding within minutes to urgent mission requirements. These high flyers will be designed to carry our fast strikes deep into enemy territory, anywhere in the world. Such a project known as FALCON is pursued by DARPA and the US Air Force. Lockheed Marin, the system’s developer is planning to fly the first FALCON demonstrator by the end of 2018, and is preparing to have such platform operational in about 10 years.

    A similar platform expected to be demonstrated around that time is the X-51 WaveRider, developed by Boeing. This vehicle will demonstrate capabilities similar to the FALCON, as Boeing aims to compete with Lockheed Martin to fulfill the future USAF requirement for global strike with the hypersonic atmospheric vehicles. The waveRider will integrate a scramjet engine developed by Pratt & Whitney, a boost rocket motor derived from an ATACMS missile matched with an airframe built by Boeing. It will demonstrate acceleration from boost (Mach 4.5+) to Mach 6 -7 cruise.

    Topics covered in AUVSI 2007 review:

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