Elbit Systems has rolled out the Hermes 650 Spark, the latest addition to its Hermes family of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). Spark is designed to be the contemporary successor to the long-serving Hermes 450, aiming to modernize UAS fleets that currently consist of mixed 450/900 models or are exclusively equipped with the 450 variants.
WindGuard has proven its compatibility and effectiveness in the field beyond imagination. Its four flat-panel antennae work tirelessly, continuously scanning the battlefield to detect, track, and classify incoming threats in real time. The sensitivity and swift response of the radar is vital in scenarios where threats can appear without warning and from many different directions.
Milrem Robotics, an Estonian company partly owned by the UAE based EDGE Group will equip the UAE Armed Forces with 60 Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), according to an official announcement released yesterday at the colsong day of the UMEX exhibition in Dubai. Milrem also unveiled a new 8×8 platform expected to expand its RCV fleet next year.
BAE Systems delivered the first Amphibious Combat Vehicle Command and Control (ACV-C) variant under the full-rate production contract to the U.S. Marine Corps. The ACV-C will provide Marines with a mobile command center that enables maintaining situational awareness and operations planning in the battlespace and on the move. The ACV-C serves as a tactical echelon command post for the U.S. Marine Corps regiment.
Elbit Systems has rolled out the Hermes 650 Spark, the latest addition to its Hermes family of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). Spark is designed to be the contemporary successor to the long-serving Hermes 450, aiming to modernize UAS fleets that currently consist of mixed 450/900 models or are exclusively equipped with the 450 variants.
Milrem Robotics, an Estonian company partly owned by the UAE based EDGE Group will equip the UAE Armed Forces with 60 Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), according to an official announcement released yesterday at the colsong day of the UMEX exhibition in Dubai. Milrem also unveiled a new 8×8 platform expected to expand its RCV fleet next year.
THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) delivered by Estonian based Milrem Robotics company to the Ukrainian armed forces have undergone extensive operations in the combat zone, this deployment has already yielding initial user experience shared with the company. Milrem Robotics delivered 14 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine. Seven of the systems are intended to carry cargo and for casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) and seven, equipped with payloads from the French CNIM, for route clearance and demining operations.
Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing company, has begun manufacturing work on a new X-65 program for DARPA. The new design employs Active Flow Control (AFC) technology that has the potential to replace traditional flaps and rudders, which are used to maneuver most aircraft today. The aircraft is configured to be modular, featuring replaceable outboard wings and swappable AFC effectors, which allows for future testing of additional AFC designs.
WindGuard has proven its compatibility and effectiveness in the field beyond imagination. Its four flat-panel antennae work tirelessly, continuously scanning the battlefield to detect, track, and classify incoming threats in real time. The sensitivity and swift response of the radar is vital in scenarios where threats can appear without warning and from many different directions.
BAE Systems delivered the first Amphibious Combat Vehicle Command and Control (ACV-C) variant under the full-rate production contract to the U.S. Marine Corps. The ACV-C will provide Marines with a mobile command center that enables maintaining situational awareness and operations planning in the battlespace and on the move. The ACV-C serves as a tactical echelon command post for the U.S. Marine Corps regiment.
THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) delivered by Estonian based Milrem Robotics company to the Ukrainian armed forces have undergone extensive operations in the combat zone, this deployment has already yielding initial user experience shared with the company. Milrem Robotics delivered 14 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine. Seven of the systems are intended to carry cargo and for casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) and seven, equipped with payloads from the French CNIM, for route clearance and demining operations.
Rheinmetall began testing its newest VSHORAD mobile gun system, Skyranger 30. In December 2023, the A1 configuration of the Skyranger 30 underwent a successful testing and live-fire campaign, paving the way for total system qualification by mid-2024.
Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace teams with German partners Diehl Defence and MBDA Deutschland to develop the Tyrfing, an advanced Super-Sonic Strike Missile (3SM). The…
Rheinmetall began testing its newest VSHORAD mobile gun system, Skyranger 30. In December 2023, the A1 configuration of the Skyranger 30 underwent a successful testing and live-fire campaign, paving the way for total system qualification by mid-2024.
Against the ongoing regional Mid-East conflict, RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems of Israel completed a pivotal SPYDER air-defense system test in its innovative All in One (AiO) configuration. The test featured an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) interception under challenging operational conditions, with the SPYDER system achieving a precise and effective defense against the evolving aerial threats representing those encountered by Israel in recent combat engagements.
Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace teams with German partners Diehl Defence and MBDA Deutschland to develop the Tyrfing, an advanced Super-Sonic Strike Missile (3SM). The…
IAI is introducing the modular All Capabilities Defense Container (ACDC) concept at DSEI 2023, packing a system of systems of defensive and attack systems utilizing an ISO container system, enabling any vessel carry equipped to carry commercial shipping containers to operate the employ advanced capabilities for self protection.
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has unveiled a large autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) called BLUE WHALE designed for covert intelligence gathering in the sea and coastal waters. The AUV can perform a significant portion of the operations of a manned submarine for several weeks without the need for operators on board. It is equipped with two types of sonars, a radar, EO sensors, and a satellite communications terminal mounted on a telescopic mast.
Israel’s defense company Rafael has recently introduced two new naval air defense systems at IMDEX ASIA 2023 – the NAVAL IRON BEAM, and the C-DOME Mission Module, to augment the defense capabilities of naval forces against evolving threats, including ballistic missiles, guided and unguided rockets, loitering weapons, and drones. These defense systems are cost-effective, complementary, and designed to be integrated into existing air defense systems, expanding air defense coverage.
Elbit Systems has rolled out the Hermes 650 Spark, the latest addition to its Hermes family of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). Spark is designed to be the contemporary successor to the long-serving Hermes 450, aiming to modernize UAS fleets that currently consist of mixed 450/900 models or are exclusively equipped with the 450 variants.
Milrem Robotics, an Estonian company partly owned by the UAE based EDGE Group will equip the UAE Armed Forces with 60 Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), according to an official announcement released yesterday at the colsong day of the UMEX exhibition in Dubai. Milrem also unveiled a new 8×8 platform expected to expand its RCV fleet next year.
THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) delivered by Estonian based Milrem Robotics company to the Ukrainian armed forces have undergone extensive operations in the combat zone, this deployment has already yielding initial user experience shared with the company. Milrem Robotics delivered 14 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine. Seven of the systems are intended to carry cargo and for casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) and seven, equipped with payloads from the French CNIM, for route clearance and demining operations.
Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing company, has begun manufacturing work on a new X-65 program for DARPA. The new design employs Active Flow Control (AFC) technology that has the potential to replace traditional flaps and rudders, which are used to maneuver most aircraft today. The aircraft is configured to be modular, featuring replaceable outboard wings and swappable AFC effectors, which allows for future testing of additional AFC designs.
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.
Israel’s ‘Iron Beam’ high-power laser air and missile defense system is moving forward, following today’s IMOD decision to add hundreds of millions NIS to fund the full-scale development. More investment will be allocated for production and fielding. of the high-power laser system designed to intercept rockets, mortars, and UAVs. According to Rafael’s CEO, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Yoav Har-Even, “the ‘Iron Beam’ system, is the most powerful laser system of its kind in the world.”
Israel’s C-UAS expert Skylock has unveiled at the UMEX exhibition in Dubai this week a new rocket-shaped hard-kill drone inhibitor countermeasure called Sky Interceptor, that can disable hostile drones at a range of 1,100 m’. A booster-extended range version can reach up to 3 km.
Rheinmetall Defense has introduced another variant of its Skyranger air defense weapon system, the Skyranger 30 HEL – a mobile, hybrid solution mounting the company’s 30mm AHEAD with a laser onboard. As a hybrid solution, the Skyranger 30 HEL is designed to thwart the full range of current and future airborne threats. The interplay of a 30mm automatic cannon, guided missiles, and a high-energy laser (HEL) results in a mix of effectors unique in this combination. The Skyranger HEL was presented in public for the first time at a counter-drone event held last year by the Swiss procurement agency armasuisse in Bure, Switzerland.
The SkyLord family employs XTend’s edge technology with cognitive skills to safely perform dangerous missions. The system uses augmented reality (AR) guidance and control technology to enable an operator to perform complex missions with great ease and precision, using an AR vision system and a single-handed controller. This telepresence interface enables operators to immerse themselves and “step into” a remote reality and engage targets effectively yet safely.
THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) delivered by Estonian based Milrem Robotics company to the Ukrainian armed forces have undergone extensive operations in the combat zone, this deployment has already yielding initial user experience shared with the company. Milrem Robotics delivered 14 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine. Seven of the systems are intended to carry cargo and for casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) and seven, equipped with payloads from the French CNIM, for route clearance and demining operations.
This article delves into the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the military, aerospace and defense sectors, highlighting how AI is reshaping these fields with advanced capabilities and strategic insights. We explore the unique challenges these sectors face and how AI offers innovative solutions. Featuring a carefully curated ‘top five’ list of companies, the article examines their ground-breaking AI applications and contributions to defense technology. From predictive maintenance to enhanced situational awareness and decision-making, discover how these companies are leading the AI revolution, setting new standards, and defining the future of military and aerospace operations.
Lockheed Martin’s AI Factory symbolizes a leap forward in the integration of artificial intelligence into aerospace and defense. This state-of-the-art facility serves as a hub for AI research, development and integration, focusing on creating advanced AI solutions tailored for modern defense applications. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the AI Factory streamlines the development process of AI, fostering innovation and collaboration. It represents Lockheed Martin’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of military technology through the power of AI, positioning them as a leader in the technological evolution of defense strategies. Defense Update selected Lockheed Martin as one of five AI leaders in defense in 2023.
Elbit Systems has rolled out the Hermes 650 Spark, the latest addition to its Hermes family of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). Spark is designed to be the contemporary successor to the long-serving Hermes 450, aiming to modernize UAS fleets that currently consist of mixed 450/900 models or are exclusively equipped with the 450 variants.
WindGuard has proven its compatibility and effectiveness in the field beyond imagination. Its four flat-panel antennae work tirelessly, continuously scanning the battlefield to detect, track, and classify incoming threats in real time. The sensitivity and swift response of the radar is vital in scenarios where threats can appear without warning and from many different directions.
Milrem Robotics, an Estonian company partly owned by the UAE based EDGE Group will equip the UAE Armed Forces with 60 Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), according to an official announcement released yesterday at the colsong day of the UMEX exhibition in Dubai. Milrem also unveiled a new 8×8 platform expected to expand its RCV fleet next year.
BAE Systems delivered the first Amphibious Combat Vehicle Command and Control (ACV-C) variant under the full-rate production contract to the U.S. Marine Corps. The ACV-C will provide Marines with a mobile command center that enables maintaining situational awareness and operations planning in the battlespace and on the move. The ACV-C serves as a tactical echelon command post for the U.S. Marine Corps regiment.
Elbit Systems has rolled out the Hermes 650 Spark, the latest addition to its Hermes family of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). Spark is designed to be the contemporary successor to the long-serving Hermes 450, aiming to modernize UAS fleets that currently consist of mixed 450/900 models or are exclusively equipped with the 450 variants.
Milrem Robotics, an Estonian company partly owned by the UAE based EDGE Group will equip the UAE Armed Forces with 60 Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), according to an official announcement released yesterday at the colsong day of the UMEX exhibition in Dubai. Milrem also unveiled a new 8×8 platform expected to expand its RCV fleet next year.
THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) delivered by Estonian based Milrem Robotics company to the Ukrainian armed forces have undergone extensive operations in the combat zone, this deployment has already yielding initial user experience shared with the company. Milrem Robotics delivered 14 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine. Seven of the systems are intended to carry cargo and for casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) and seven, equipped with payloads from the French CNIM, for route clearance and demining operations.
Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing company, has begun manufacturing work on a new X-65 program for DARPA. The new design employs Active Flow Control (AFC) technology that has the potential to replace traditional flaps and rudders, which are used to maneuver most aircraft today. The aircraft is configured to be modular, featuring replaceable outboard wings and swappable AFC effectors, which allows for future testing of additional AFC designs.
WindGuard has proven its compatibility and effectiveness in the field beyond imagination. Its four flat-panel antennae work tirelessly, continuously scanning the battlefield to detect, track, and classify incoming threats in real time. The sensitivity and swift response of the radar is vital in scenarios where threats can appear without warning and from many different directions.
BAE Systems delivered the first Amphibious Combat Vehicle Command and Control (ACV-C) variant under the full-rate production contract to the U.S. Marine Corps. The ACV-C will provide Marines with a mobile command center that enables maintaining situational awareness and operations planning in the battlespace and on the move. The ACV-C serves as a tactical echelon command post for the U.S. Marine Corps regiment.
THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) delivered by Estonian based Milrem Robotics company to the Ukrainian armed forces have undergone extensive operations in the combat zone, this deployment has already yielding initial user experience shared with the company. Milrem Robotics delivered 14 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine. Seven of the systems are intended to carry cargo and for casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) and seven, equipped with payloads from the French CNIM, for route clearance and demining operations.
Rheinmetall began testing its newest VSHORAD mobile gun system, Skyranger 30. In December 2023, the A1 configuration of the Skyranger 30 underwent a successful testing and live-fire campaign, paving the way for total system qualification by mid-2024.
Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace teams with German partners Diehl Defence and MBDA Deutschland to develop the Tyrfing, an advanced Super-Sonic Strike Missile (3SM). The…
Rheinmetall began testing its newest VSHORAD mobile gun system, Skyranger 30. In December 2023, the A1 configuration of the Skyranger 30 underwent a successful testing and live-fire campaign, paving the way for total system qualification by mid-2024.
Against the ongoing regional Mid-East conflict, RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems of Israel completed a pivotal SPYDER air-defense system test in its innovative All in One (AiO) configuration. The test featured an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) interception under challenging operational conditions, with the SPYDER system achieving a precise and effective defense against the evolving aerial threats representing those encountered by Israel in recent combat engagements.
Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace teams with German partners Diehl Defence and MBDA Deutschland to develop the Tyrfing, an advanced Super-Sonic Strike Missile (3SM). The…
IAI is introducing the modular All Capabilities Defense Container (ACDC) concept at DSEI 2023, packing a system of systems of defensive and attack systems utilizing an ISO container system, enabling any vessel carry equipped to carry commercial shipping containers to operate the employ advanced capabilities for self protection.
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has unveiled a large autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) called BLUE WHALE designed for covert intelligence gathering in the sea and coastal waters. The AUV can perform a significant portion of the operations of a manned submarine for several weeks without the need for operators on board. It is equipped with two types of sonars, a radar, EO sensors, and a satellite communications terminal mounted on a telescopic mast.
Israel’s defense company Rafael has recently introduced two new naval air defense systems at IMDEX ASIA 2023 – the NAVAL IRON BEAM, and the C-DOME Mission Module, to augment the defense capabilities of naval forces against evolving threats, including ballistic missiles, guided and unguided rockets, loitering weapons, and drones. These defense systems are cost-effective, complementary, and designed to be integrated into existing air defense systems, expanding air defense coverage.
Elbit Systems has rolled out the Hermes 650 Spark, the latest addition to its Hermes family of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). Spark is designed to be the contemporary successor to the long-serving Hermes 450, aiming to modernize UAS fleets that currently consist of mixed 450/900 models or are exclusively equipped with the 450 variants.
Milrem Robotics, an Estonian company partly owned by the UAE based EDGE Group will equip the UAE Armed Forces with 60 Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), according to an official announcement released yesterday at the colsong day of the UMEX exhibition in Dubai. Milrem also unveiled a new 8×8 platform expected to expand its RCV fleet next year.
THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) delivered by Estonian based Milrem Robotics company to the Ukrainian armed forces have undergone extensive operations in the combat zone, this deployment has already yielding initial user experience shared with the company. Milrem Robotics delivered 14 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine. Seven of the systems are intended to carry cargo and for casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) and seven, equipped with payloads from the French CNIM, for route clearance and demining operations.
Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing company, has begun manufacturing work on a new X-65 program for DARPA. The new design employs Active Flow Control (AFC) technology that has the potential to replace traditional flaps and rudders, which are used to maneuver most aircraft today. The aircraft is configured to be modular, featuring replaceable outboard wings and swappable AFC effectors, which allows for future testing of additional AFC designs.
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.
Israel’s ‘Iron Beam’ high-power laser air and missile defense system is moving forward, following today’s IMOD decision to add hundreds of millions NIS to fund the full-scale development. More investment will be allocated for production and fielding. of the high-power laser system designed to intercept rockets, mortars, and UAVs. According to Rafael’s CEO, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Yoav Har-Even, “the ‘Iron Beam’ system, is the most powerful laser system of its kind in the world.”
Israel’s C-UAS expert Skylock has unveiled at the UMEX exhibition in Dubai this week a new rocket-shaped hard-kill drone inhibitor countermeasure called Sky Interceptor, that can disable hostile drones at a range of 1,100 m’. A booster-extended range version can reach up to 3 km.
Rheinmetall Defense has introduced another variant of its Skyranger air defense weapon system, the Skyranger 30 HEL – a mobile, hybrid solution mounting the company’s 30mm AHEAD with a laser onboard. As a hybrid solution, the Skyranger 30 HEL is designed to thwart the full range of current and future airborne threats. The interplay of a 30mm automatic cannon, guided missiles, and a high-energy laser (HEL) results in a mix of effectors unique in this combination. The Skyranger HEL was presented in public for the first time at a counter-drone event held last year by the Swiss procurement agency armasuisse in Bure, Switzerland.
The SkyLord family employs XTend’s edge technology with cognitive skills to safely perform dangerous missions. The system uses augmented reality (AR) guidance and control technology to enable an operator to perform complex missions with great ease and precision, using an AR vision system and a single-handed controller. This telepresence interface enables operators to immerse themselves and “step into” a remote reality and engage targets effectively yet safely.
THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) delivered by Estonian based Milrem Robotics company to the Ukrainian armed forces have undergone extensive operations in the combat zone, this deployment has already yielding initial user experience shared with the company. Milrem Robotics delivered 14 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine. Seven of the systems are intended to carry cargo and for casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) and seven, equipped with payloads from the French CNIM, for route clearance and demining operations.
This article delves into the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the military, aerospace and defense sectors, highlighting how AI is reshaping these fields with advanced capabilities and strategic insights. We explore the unique challenges these sectors face and how AI offers innovative solutions. Featuring a carefully curated ‘top five’ list of companies, the article examines their ground-breaking AI applications and contributions to defense technology. From predictive maintenance to enhanced situational awareness and decision-making, discover how these companies are leading the AI revolution, setting new standards, and defining the future of military and aerospace operations.
Lockheed Martin’s AI Factory symbolizes a leap forward in the integration of artificial intelligence into aerospace and defense. This state-of-the-art facility serves as a hub for AI research, development and integration, focusing on creating advanced AI solutions tailored for modern defense applications. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the AI Factory streamlines the development process of AI, fostering innovation and collaboration. It represents Lockheed Martin’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of military technology through the power of AI, positioning them as a leader in the technological evolution of defense strategies. Defense Update selected Lockheed Martin as one of five AI leaders in defense in 2023.
The US Army received two Virtual Combat Convoy Trainers (VCCTs) developed and built by Lockheed Martina and Firearms Training Systems (FATS), Inc. under a $9.6 million contract awarded on June 2003, to help train troops to recognize and respond to potential convoy threats including Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The VCCT enables combat crews to communicate, maintain situational awareness and acquire targets while moving at highway speeds operating in a convoy environment. The simulators will be operated at US Army bases at Camp Shelby, MS and Fort Bragg, NC. The trainers are expected to improve convoy tactics and minimize combat related injuries and deaths resulting from attacks on convoys. One-third of all US casualties since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom were caused by attacks and accidents related to convoy traffic.
Every trainers has four cells, each occupies a tractor-trailer box and is fully self- contained, including a full-scale High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) The trainer is distinguished by a full-scale HMMWV that includes high-fidelity driver controls and accurately replicates all the physical and visual constraints associated with the M1025 HMMWV. It also generates all visual and audible combat effects and actual combat scenarios which deployed troops might encounter. The new trainer will enable soldiers to hone basic-to-advanced convoy skills incorporating realistic weapons engagement training and networked vehicle simulators to reinforce crew discipline.
The Lockheed Martin/FATS team used developed a comprehensive training device based on the operational Close Combat Tactical Trainer (CCTT), integrated with FATS’ small arms, precision weapons training system to generate realistic convoy training to the troops. Vehicle simulation for the VCCT is derived from software developed for both CCTT and the United Kingdom’s Combined Arms Tactical Trainer (UK CATT).
299 Bushmasters were procured, starting 2005 to equip the Australian Army’s 7th Brigade and the Royal Australian Air Force’s Airfield Defence Guards, under a A$316 million project. 26 vehicles were sent to Iraq, Operation Catalyst operating in support the coalition forces.
The Bushmaster can maintain speeds in excess of 90 km/h on Australian roads, with a range of up to 800km carrying nine infantry soldiers with sufficient supplies of food, water and ammunition to last three days. Each vehicle will be fitted with a weapon station capable of mounting the Army’s family of light machine guns. They have also been designed to deflect the effects of a landmine explosion, providing unprecedented protection to soldiers in the battlefield.
Following troops’ complaints about the lack of on-board facilities and limited protection, Australian MOD gathered feedback from crews of the 26 Bushmasters on operations in the Middle East to influence improvements for the Bushmaster.
According to Vice Chief of the Defence Force, Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie Lieutenant General Gillespie said that Bushmaster vehicles already provide crews with a high level of blast and ballistic protection, while future enhancements are being tested by the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) and Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO). These tests cover ballistics, blast and handling to assess the effect of armor weight on the safe operation and capabilities of the vehicle.
In July 2006 the Government approved rapid acquisition of a protected, remotely operated weapon station for Bushmaster, improving survivability and surveillance capability for the crew. The first systems are expected to be fielded before the year’s end. Furthermore, a new prototype cooling system for the on-board drinking water tank is planned for field testing in October this year. In December 2006, Recon Optical delivered 44 Raven R-400 such systems to be integrated into the first batch of upgraded Bushrangers.
The B-2 Spirit stealth bomber offers similar capabilities, with the addition of stealth – enabling it to penetrate heavily defended airspace, especially at night. The B-2 also carries an impressive weapon’s load – it was recently re-equipped with a modified weapons rack that simultaneously dropped 80 JDAM GPS-guided weapons from a single B-2. The B-2 flew 43 combat missions in Operation Iraqi Freedom, employing more than 400 precision weapons throughout in the air campaign. Since then, the aircraft has been used to test new munitions to further enhancing its conventional attack capability, including JASSM stealth cruise missiles, which allows the aircraft to strike targets from a greater distance; The EGBU-28, which combines both global positioning system and laser guidance for increased operational flexibility (all weather) and adaptation of the 500 pound (227 kg) JDAM. The B-2 previously used this system only to guide 2,000-pound (909 kg) bombs. The smaller warhead enables the B-2 to increase the potential number of JDAMs carried per flight from 16 to as many as 80.
The B-2 can also carry eight of the massive 5,000-pound (2.27 ton kg) GBU-37 bunker-buster bombs, and may eventually carry a pair of the 30,000-pound (13.6 ton) (Massive Ordnance Penetrators. Eventually, the could carry 216 or even as many as 324 of the new, guided Small Diameter Bombs (SDB). These bombs are carried on the BRU-61/A smart pneumatic carriage, each holding four SDB weapons. In addition, improvements have been made to the Spirit’s coating, which has reduced maintenance actions from days to minutes.
Next on the upgrade plan is the introduction of Link-16 communications will further improve the bomber’s integration to support tactical operations. These datalinks will feed targeting information including image and video directly to individual bombs. Other future upgrades will include radar updates, which will enable the B-2’s weaponry to reach targets further underground.
IMI Tavor assault rifle has been selected as the future weapon for Israel Defense Forces infantry units. For several years the IDF evaluated the Tavor against the M-16 M4. The two weapons recently completed extensive field evaluations with special forces as well elite infantry units, such as the Givati Brigade. Following the conclusion of these tests, the IDF made its decision. The evaluations were very positive and overall, Tavor proved to be significantly more accurate and reliable compared to the M4, and became the favorable sidearm by the majority of the infantrymen participated in the tests. The weapon proved to be more comfortable to operate, and more accurate in instinctive fire, as the natural carrying position – an inherent advantage of the rear center of gravity, derived by the compact bull-pup design.
Due to budget constraints and large quantities of M-16 and M-16A2 which are already in its inventory, the IDF is expected to order only thousands of rifles per year, however, according to IMI, the importance of the decision is the recognition in the quality and superiority of the new Israeli weapon, to promote export sales. The IDF selected Tavor with an optical reflection sight, the initial batch will be equipped with the ITL battery powered MARS, but follow-on batches could be equipped with either the passive, non-powered Mepro-21 Rexfelx sight, produced by Meprolight or the ITL MARS. IMI believes that Tavor will soon take its place as a leading brand in the world market, similar to the ubiquitous Uzi, IMI produced in the 1950s. India became the second country to order Tavor. The new assault rifle will equip paratroops and special forces of the Indian Army. The Indian version will be equipped with the ITL MARS optical reflection sight. On September 2004 Georgia became the third country to select the Tavor, which will be used by special operations units.
The development of the Armor Survivability Kit for the Humvee began in October 2003. following the reports on the growing damages caused by ambushes and IEDs. The kit includes replacement of the doors with armored doors fitted with small ballistic-resistant windows. Further protection is provided by armored seatbacks, reinforced floor and windshield made of bullet proof glass.
The kit weighs half of that designed for the up-armored Humvee (ths ASK adds about 1,000 pounds to a standard non-armored vehicle). The kit provides some RPG and IED protection, as commonly encountered in Iraq. There are two ASK versions, one supporting a two-door Humvee and the other, a four-door Humvee. The resulting armoring package provides an effective protection against typical attack (small arms fire, IED), but at the cost of considerable damage to the vehicle. Most frequently, an IED explosion will cripple the vehicle, and when abandoned in hostile area, leaving it preys for the rioting mob. This is one reason that caused motivated the use of heavier, more survivable vehicles for such tasks.
A technology demonstrator of the Advanced Effect and Protection System, designed to protect ground targets from cruise missile attacks, was shown by Bofors Defense AB at Eurosatory 2004. Similar to the BONUS target scanner, the AEPS uses fast rotation to scan for targets, and once detected, it activates a directional warhead to destroy it with its large fragmentation charge. While AEPS can be used against a wide range of targets, its main goal is to provide the last line of defense over sensitive targets, protecting them from precision weapons and cruise missile attacks.
Displacive Compensation of Porosity (DCP), a novel method for fabricating shaped monolithic ceramics, uses a chemical reaction to fill preformed, porous ceramic material with a different ceramic compound, resulting in super-dense material. This process works at relatively low temperatures and therefore, is more economical. The resulting compound can be molded into complex shapes and offers improved protection at significantly lower weight.
Ceradyne is offering large ceramic plates (12 x 17 inch) offering multi-hit protection capability against 5.56 and 7.62mm ball and AP threats at shot spacing of 1 – 3 inches.
GCSS-Army is the primary tactical logistics enabler to achieve the Army Campaign Plan and Combat Support/Combat Service Support (CS/CSS) Transformation Vision in support of soldiers in the field. The GCSS-Army rollout will allow more than 135,000 soldier and contractor users in the total army to view complete logistics management information and make timely, data-driven decisions.
The initiative will integrate and streamline operations from factory to foxhole across a single army logistics enterprise and will replace 14 standard army mission information system baselines comprising several thousand disparate legacy applications currently in use worldwide.
Currently the largest and most complex U.S. Army logistics automation technology initiative, Global Combat Support System-Army (GCSS-Army) is being implemented to transform supply chain business processes to enhance logistics support of Army tactical combat operations.
The software technology solution is based on a SAP application, which will provide the U.S. Army with accurate logistics management information for effective execution of supply, maintenance and property accountability operations as well as timely data sharing with other Army and Department of Defense automation systems.
The fixed-site version Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration (ACTD) Tactical High Energy Laser (THEL) THEL, was developed by TRW Inc. under a $89 million contract. During several tests in the USA, the system has shot down 25 Katyusha rockets, but has not been deployed.
The system also known as Nautilus, has not progressed much since the end of the demonstration program, since the lack of mobility and the fixed base limitations of the system made in insufficient to counter long range rockets currently employed by Hezbulla at the Israeli northern border with Lebanon. While Katyusha rockets had a range of 20 kilometers, and could hit only a few urban targets, the long range rockets have a range of 70 kilometers and can hit strategic facilities and large urban areas in the Haifa bay. A laser-based defense against such weapons must rely on more systems, which could be rapidly mobilized to protect a much larger area. Such design is currently being implemented under the MTHEL program. Similar threats could face US contingencies in other parts of the world. This requirement is driving the need for an air-mobile version of the beam weapon.
Mobile Tactical High Energy Laser (MTHEL)
A study completed in 2001 concluded that the rocket interceptor has “lots of promise” and further development should be pursued, primarily in enabling system’s mobility. Mobility considerations for the future mobile systems include system mobility (road and off road capabilities) and air transportability, including the type of transport aircraft it should fit on (C-130, C-17 or C-5). Conclusions of these studies will define the necessary size- reduction technologies required for the future version.Further studies of the system include the use of such laser beam weapons to provide “hard kill” defenses against artillery projectiles, UAVs and cruise missiles.
During a recent test conducted on Aug. 24, 2004 the system shot down multiple mortar rounds, demonstrating potential its battlefield application for to protection against common threats. The test represented actual mortar threat scenarios. Targets were intercepted by the THEL testbed and destroyed; both single mortar rounds and salvo were tested.
THEL / MTHEL Operational Scenario
The Tactical High Energy Laser uses a high-energy, deuterium fluoride chemical laser to protect against attack by short range unguided (ballistic flying) rockets.
In a typical engagement scenario, a rocket is launched toward the defended area. Upon detection by the THEL fire control radar (image on right), the radar establishes trajectory information about the incoming rocket, then “hands off” the target to the pointer-tracker subsystem, which includes the beam director (top of page above). The PTS tracks the target optically, then begins a “fine tracking” process for THEL’s beam director, which then places THEL’s high-energy laser on target. The energy of the laser causes intense heating of the target, which causes its warhead to explode. The debris from the target falls quickly to the ground, far short of the defended area.
The purpose of the MTHEL program is to develop and test the first mobile Directed Energy weapon system capable of detecting, tracking, engaging, and defeating Rockets/Artillery/Mortars (RAM), cruise missiles, short-range ballistic missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles. Despite the progress made with MTHEL, the US Army stopped funding for the program claiming it was too bulky.
Northrop Grumman proposed to use “relocatable” THEL systems to counter mortar and rocket threats on US military facilities in Iraq. Since funding for the MTHEL program was cut in 2004, such system may not be available for deployment in the near future. A second generation “relocatable” THEL system is currently considered for deployment. Such system will weigh about one-quarter the size of the current THEL and will fit into a 20 foot container which can be airlifted to forward areas. The new system will offer the same capability. Such systems are expected to cost $25 million a piece, when fielded in large numbers (30+). Future laser weapons will be based on electrically generated lasers and run on diesel fuel, rather than specially supplied chemical liquid fuel. However, while THEL based weapon could be fielded in less than two years, an equivalent system based on electrically powered laser will not be feasible before 2011. The system’s radar is already operational in Israel, providing early warning from Palestinian attacks on the the city of Shderot. there are also rumors about a planned THEL deployment to Iraq, where it could provide RAM protection of the US Forces command and new Iraqi government.
GAZ-3937 is a highly mobile multi-purpose amphibious 4×4 platform offers a modular, armor protected cabin protecting personnel and cargo. The welded body consists of two detachable modules. The front module includes a GAZ-5424 turbocharged air-cooled multi-fuel diesel engine. Optional Cummins or Steyr engines are under development. This section also accommodates a tandem seating arrangement for the driver and passenger. Passengers, cargo and mission oriented payloads are carried in the rear detachable modular capsule.
The GAZ-39371 variant is based on the GAZ-3937, and is optimized for reconnaissance, patrol escort, search and rescue missions, for military and law enforcement units. The vehicle is fitted with bullet-proof windows and tires and optional bullet-proof protection against heavy infantry weapons and artillery fragments.
A hybrid polymer nanofiber which offers high anti-ballistic performance and durability against environmental effects such as, petroleum distillates and high temperature (in excess of 400F). G-LAM-C is offering increased protection levels, through the introduction of a ceramic face plate. Polymer based nanofiber-reinforces armor material affords 25% weight saving as well as substantial improvement in durability, and production saving compared to material processing of materials while providing comparable performance.
Armor Systems International uses a combination of multi-layer fabrics and adhesives, formed into flexible or rigid panels, providing protection up to level IV (NIJ 0108.01 standard) with proven multiple hits protection capability from up to .50 cal armor-piercing rounds.
The unique design uses a special adhesive layer which attaches the protection panel securely to almost any smooth surface, providing immediate threat protection. On armored vehicles Aztik 100 can also be used as a spall liner, to provides ballistics and ricochet protection inside the vehicle. Panels can also be applied to protect security checkpoints, guard shacks and other sensitive installations.
Following successful tests by the USMC and the US Army Rapid Equipping Force, 19 piece Aztik 100 armor protection kits were shipped to Afghanistan, to protect Humvees. The 19-piece Aztik 100™ HMMWV (Humvee) armor kit can be installed in the field within two hours by two soldiers. It includes door panels, floor protection, and a rear-protection panel, as well as armored seat cushions and bullet-resistant glass.
DIAMONITE – A structural ceramic material made primarily from Aluminum oxide (alumina) which is designed for military and civilian vehicle armor systems. When integrated into a complete armor system, CerCo Structural Ceramics utilize planned material fracture to rob the projectile of energy. This system is, in many cases, more cost-efficient than an all-metal or all-fabric system.