Armada aug sept 2013 main magazine

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THE TRUSTED SOURCE FOR DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY INFORMATION SINCE 1976

Issue 4/2013

INTERNATIONAL

August/September

Contents_Armada.qxp:Armada

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THE TRUSTED SOURCE FOR DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY INFORMATION SINCE 1976

Contents 4/2013 INTERNATIONAL

www.armada.ch | www.armadainternational.com

12 MOUT TRAINING SYSTEMS

FAKE CITY I Paolo Valpolini The first realistic simulation systems were developed for air force pilots, the Vietnam war having showed that the very first missions were those that caused the highest number of casualties. Unsurprisingly, the same phenomenon applies to the infantryman: according to a Darpa survey the learning curve starts to stabilise after the first 100 days in operation, during which 40% of infantry fatalities occur. True realistic training definitely was needed.

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WHAT’S UP? TITUS LIVE! I Eric H. Biass and Paolo Valpolini

26

38

NAVAL MID-CAL REMOTE-CONTOL GUNS

GUNFIRE LOCATION SYSTEMS

REMOTE-CONTROL CANNON PROLIFERATION AT SEA

ACOUSTIC GUNSHOT DETECTION SYSTEMS

I Luca Peruzzi

I Paolo Valpolini

50

60

LANDING HELICOPTER DOCKS

RUGGED PORTABLE COMPUTERS

COMPENDIUM SUPPLEMENT

LANDING SHIPS AND HELICOPTER DOCKS

RUGGED GOOD LOOKS

MODERN SOLDIER PROGRAMMES

I Luca Peruzzi

I Tom Withington

I Paolo Valpolini

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Index

DEFENCE TECHNOLOG SOURCE FOR THE TRUSTED

Issue 4/2013

Y INFORMATIO

N SINCE 1976

L INTERNATIONA

August/September

I INDEX TO ADVERTISERS AIMPOINT

23

EUROSATORY

41

ROSOBORONEXPORT

AR - MODULAR RF

27

EXELIS

37

RTD

ARMADA - WEBSITE

23

INDO DEFENCE

29

RUAG CORPORATE SERVICES

15

ARMADA SUBSCRIPTION

51

INVISIO

19

SAAB DYNAMICS

49

ASELSAN

35

IVECO

19

SAAB SECURITY & DEFENCE

11

AUSA

C3

LEMO

63

SAGEM

C4

BERETTA

15

MTU

21

TEXTRON

C4

BRIDEX

33

NAMEXPO

31

TRIJICON

25

DDC

57

NEXTER

29

VECTRONIX

5

DIMDEX

59

NFM

VIASAT

5

DSA MALAYSIA

65

NORTHROP GRUMMAN

DSEI

C3

ODU

47

ELBIT SYSTEMS

C2

OTO MELARA

31

9

24-25 33

Entries highlighted with Red numbers are found in Compendium Modern Soldier Programmes 2013

Companies mentioned in this issue. Where there are multiple references to a company in an article,only the first occurence and subsequent photographs are listed below 14

AMREL

63,64

Anadolu Shipyard ( ADIK) Apple

Elbit Systems

14,16

QinetiQ

1,38,39,12,25

Esterline-Racal Acoustics

20

QioptiQ

7

36

Eurocopter

54

Rafael

4

27,54

Fincantieri

56

Rapid Mobile

Ascom Security Solns

20

Finmeccanica

56

Raytheon

Aselsan

34

Fokker Aerostructures

13

Reutech

32

General Dynamics C4I

3,4

Revision

General Dynamics-Mowag

20

Rheinmetall Defence

62

Riva Trigoso

56

Rosoboronexport

52

Atlas Elektronik BAE Systems

28,35,36,54,56,58

Ben-Tronics

32

Getac

Beretta defence technology

16

Grid Defence Systems

Bharat Electronics

24

Handheld Algiz

BioMimetic

63,64

Saab

17,18,20,54,28

Harris

9

Invisio

30

Blücher GmbH

6

ITT Exelis

45,46

54,16

Kongsberg

12

Kortron

Boeing

54

L-3 Communications

Bumar

22,23

Selex ES

56,16,17 54

64

SSZ

20

STN Atlas Elektronik

13

STX France

52

32

Martec

12

Chemring Group

12

MBDA

30,52 63

Cosworth

12

MSI Defence Systems

31,32

CQC Defence

12

Navantia Shipbuilding

54

DCNS Dell Diehl Stiftung DRS EADS

04

52,53,58 64, 65

Nexter

06,07,08,09,10,11,34

NFM

13,14

Tatra

12

Textron

40

Thales Ultra Electronics

OTO Melara

18

Panasonic

61

WB Electronic

Physical Optics corporation (POC)

26

Zeiss Optronics

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28,30,35,36

7

TE Connectivity

13

13, 20

50,24 30

Ceradyne

Mobile Demand

Singapore Technologies Source of Sound

7

45,46

4

Sikorsky

Cassidian

Cobham

Samsung

42,52,13,20

9,20

61,62

Logic Instrument

Sagem

65,66 54

Lenovo

32 13,28,46,6,18

14,16,17,20

4

BMT Defence

34

Ruag

45,46

BMS

30 39,3

60

Blackberry

Volume 37, Issue No. 4, August 2013/September 2013 INTERNATIONAL

C2

I INDEX TO MANUFACTURERS

Altmark

Exclusive to Armada, the Titus prototype unveiled by Nexter at DSEi 2013 was earlier put through its paces by Armada’s senior editors who measured the unexpected capabilities of this new armoured vehicle in terms of performance, uncompromised safety, self defence options, and high habitability (comfort and environmental awareness features), despite a very attractive pricetag and low running costs (Armada/Eric H. Biass)

Vectronix

52,53,7,10 45 8,10 23 6

is published bi-monthly by Media Transasia Ltd. Copyright 2012 by Media Transasia Ltd. Publishing Office: Media Transasia Ltd, Room No. 1205-1206, Hollywood Centre 233, Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong.

Tel: (852) 2815 9111, Fax: (852) 2815 1933 Editor-in-Chief: Eric H. Biass Regular Contributors: Roy Braybrook, Paolo Valpolini, Thomas Withington Chairman: J.S. Uberoi President: Xavier Collaco Sr. Manager International Marketing: Vishal Mehta Manager International Marketing: Yusuf Azim Deputy Manager Marketing: Tarun Malviya Sales & Marketing Coordinator: Atul Bali Creative Director: Bipin Kumar Deputy Art Director: Sachin Jain Asstt. Art Directors : Mukesh Kumar, Ajay Kumar Visualiser: Sujit Singh Production Manager: Kanda Thanakornwongskul Group Circulation Manager: Porames Chinwongs Chief Financial Officer: Gaurav Kumar Advertising Sales Offices AUSTRIA, BENELUX, SWITZERLAND Cornelius W. Bontje Ph: +41 55 216 17 81, cornelius.bontje@armada.ch FRANCE Promotion et Motivation, Odile Orbec Ph: +33 1 41 43 83 00, o.orbec@pema-group.com GERMANY Sam Baird Ph: +44 1883 715 697, sam@whitehillmedia.com ITALY, NORDIC COUNTRIES Emanuela Castagnetti-Gillberg Ph: +46 31 799 9028, egillberg@glocalnet.net

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Tel: 66 (0)-2204 2370, Fax: 66 (0)-2204 2390 -1 Subscription Information: Readers should contact the following address: Subscription Department, Media Transasia Ltd. Room No. 1205-1206, Hollywood Centre 233, Holywood Road, Central, Hong Kong.

Tel: (852) 2815 9111, Fax: (852) 2851 1933

www.armada.ch www.armadainternational.com

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What’s Up?

Nexter’s newborn takes 14 almost anywhere, but in style.

(Armada/Eric H. Biass)

Titus Live!

The tactical commander looks at the outside situation from his central seat, slightly recessed in relation to the other two front seats. To his left the driver exploits the vehicle’s traction to its full, easily overcoming obstacles (and the ride is surprisingly smooth) while on the right the vehicle commander/gunner manages the medium-calibre gun, ready to react to any possible threat. In the back ten dismounts are ready to take action, debussing through the rear ramp, which is equipped with a vision block and a firing port.

Eric H. Biass and Paolo Valpolini

I

f it weren’t for the photograph, the above paragraph would sound more like an account of a ride aboard a typical 8x8 armoured personnel carrier. Instead, we are on board the latest vehicle developed by Nexter in France, namely a 6x6 with the looks of an Mrap, but one that literally is a quantum leap ahead of its brethrens.

Looking at the state of the market and

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leveraging experience acquired with the development of its XP2 6x6 technology demonstrator, Nexter decided that it was time to bridge the gap between the Aravis and the VBCI and thereby meet the requirements of those armies that need to replace their armoured personnel carrier fleets and at the same time adapt to the evolved operational environment. Most

importantly this includes the current hybrid nature of present conflicts, which can involve a wide spectrum of military activities – as evidenced in recent operations – and an uncompromising eye on throughlife costs. Strategic and operational mobility, plus operational flexibility considerations set aside, not only does the “low-cost” aspect, as opposed to “cheap”, need to succeed in less wealthy countries, but it also has to be understood in tier-one countries with military budgets in constant decline.

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With the hitherto code-named XP-3 this translates into modularity, controlled through-life cost, and a high-performance chassis of international repute. The vehicle has finally been given a more imperial designation, Titus, which in fact stands for Tactical Infantry Transport & Utility System. At 17.5 tonnes (curb weight), its hybrid conflict combat weight would typically hover around the 23.3-tonne mark, although its maximum acceptable gross is set at 27 tonnes.

I MOBILITY

For an off-road military vehicle a key factor of mobility is grip consistency. This in turn entails adequate (in fact a maximum possible amount of) load spread, and “long legs” to go catch the grip in the deepest conditions. Load spread is very much the job of the tyres, which in this case is

The operating principle of Tatra’s swing-axle suspension design, here for a standard 6x6, in which each tube-enclosed semi-axle differential crown-bearing shafts swings around its respective pinion gear. (Armada/Eric H. Biass)

Clear outside view enjoyed by the forwardsitting tactical commander and the first few other men looking over his shoulder in the rear cabin. (Armada/Paolo Valpolini)

entrusted to Michelin 16.00R20, which are comfortably wide boots that can be pressure-adjusted to terrain needs.

The other component of the aforementioned grip factor, is of course the chassis. There are several, but not many, ways of providing the necessary wheel downstroke. One is to allow the chassis to twist at will, as very effectively done by a wellknown German brand, but with a severe drawback in terms of payload capacity if that has to be a long, heavy and rigid cabin. The second, and nominally perfect, is a rock-solid chassis resting on a totally independent longstroke suspension operating on superimposed wishbones, but which is as

nice as it is expensive, especially above a certain tonnage. The ideal answer comes in the form of the swing semi-axle principle.

This is probably as old as independent suspension itself, but its infamous wandering characteristics have been perfectly mastered

by Tatra as far back as the early 1920s to the extent of earning the Czech firm a long string of lorry-class victories at the unforgiving Paris-Algiers-Dakar rally, starting in 1988 when Czechoslovakia was still on the wrong side of the Iron Curtain. The uniqueness of the Tatra chassis selected by Nexter is that all its rotating drive elements – propshafts and semi-axles alike – are encased in hefty tubing, with the semi-axle differential crown-bearing shafts literally swinging around their respective pinion gears (see Tatra’s almost self-explanatory diagram herewith).

A first for a Tatra 6x6, however, was Nexter’s idea of altering the axle layout by moving the second axle, usually emplaced close to the third axle, half-way between axle 1 and 3. This is of course brilliant in terms of traction distribution on a difficult terrain that would actually command higher ground clearance, but would make the vehicle totally impractical in its steering capabilities with the sole front wheels having to break the inline rigidity of the other two axles. This is where Nexter’s second piece of cleverness cuts in, with the emplacement of a second, but differential, steering gear in the third axle.

Wheel in positive, all-time contact with the ground for strong grip is a sine qua non of mobility, a precious amenity here provided by an adapted Tatra chassis. ( Armada/Eric H. Biass)

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What’s Up?

Very importantly this not only adds agility, but also provides a never-heard-of steering diameter of 13 metres in the kingdom of lorries, when current saloon cars struggle to keep this under the 12-metre mark! A side advantage of this dual steering is a reduction of the inside chord in full-lock manoeuvres. It must be said, however, that hitting motorway speeds with a wiggling tail is out of the question. Therefore a safety system reduces the amount of rear axle steering as speed increases. Steering angle is the same as the front up to 10km/h, then goes diminuendo to actually be zeroed above 45 km/h.

Power on tap also has its say on the mobility theme. For this purpose, Nexter went out shopping overseas to fit a Cummins engine, pouring some 440 horsepower into a six-speed Allison autoshifter. The result is pretty smooth and nicely “doseable”, with phenomenal engine braking power. The test terrain near Paris was pretty demanding and never did the vehicle find itself short of power, even though we were far from the usual combat weight. In spite of terribly impressive furrows dug in the terrain, never was any kicking or loss of purchase noticeable. Only when questioning power reserve in sandy environment were we told by Nexter that a 550-horsepower engine was being envisaged as an option.

AT THE WHEEL Once the very obvious and classical layout of the office has sunk in (which takes the whole of a minute), the second feeling that needs to be gotten used to once on the move is the seemingly happy tail of the vehicle.

However, once one’s neurones have clicked to the fact that this is not caused by any mischievous sideslip or tail-end misbehaviour, that extra manoeuvrability actually becomes somewhat addictive and one rapidly appreciates the precision with which the vehicle will put its treads exactly where commanded, even in greasy terrain. Another feature any driver will appreciate, is the phenomenal engine braking that the gearbox manages to percolate through to the wheels to the extent that depressing the brake pedal is only really necessary to completely stop the vehicle.

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The commander/gunner position; the front screen is that of the RCWS, with the joystick on the right, while the screen on the right is that of the BMS. (Armada/P. Valpolini) I PROTECTION

I SITUATIONAL AWARENESS

The aim of Nexter to provide the customer with what he really needs extends to protection. The basic vehicle features a Level 1 protection on the engine bonnet and armoured glasses, increasing to Level 2 (both ballistic and mine) for the all-steel crew cell, while the vehicle is capable to withstand a 50 kg IED blast. These levels can of course be easily increased when higher threats must be met by fixing add-on armour, the Titus being fitted from scratch to accept such solutions. Currently Nexter envisages Level 3 for the engine bonnet and armoured glasses, while ballistic and mine protection can be beefed up to Level 4, IED tolerance to 150 kg blast with immunity to 155 mm grenade shrapnel – intermediate levels being of course available.

As said initially, meeting exactly customers’ needs is considered a key issue when keeping costs down. Hence a degree of modularity. However, modularity itself can represent an added cost, thus predispositions for modularity must also be taken into account. This means that if a customer thinks that he will need to add extra elements at a later stage, the vehicle will be outfitted to accept such solutions.

Conversely, if a customer is fully convinced that his vehicle will remain as is, solutions that allow to add modular elements will not be considered, and the acquisition costs of the vehicle will be lower. These concepts had to be illustrated prior to describing the vehicle in detail, as the customer will be presented a consistent options chart and thus many characteristics might vary.

As said above the cabin hosts the driver to the left and the commander/gunner to the right, the prototype vehicle being equipped with a Nexter ARX20 remotely controlled turret located on the front left corner of the roof. Behind the cabin in a central position, a seat for a tactical commander is available.

This vantage position not only allows him to observe the situation on the BMS screen on his left and a secondary screen on his right, but more importantly to maintain a direct view on a 120° frontal sector through the large single-piece armoured glass windscreen, a key issue to ensure maximum situational awareness.

The windscreen allows also the dismounts, especially those seated in the front seats, to have an idea of the outside scenario. This being said, three armoured glass windows can be installed on each side of the vehicle. The current prototype was not equipped with such amenities (but was prepared for them), but was instead fitted with Level 3 opaque side protections. Situational awareness is complemented by a four-camera layout providing a 360° coverage.

I ERGONOMICS

Nexter has carried out thorough ergonomic studies for the creation of the Titus, first using a wooden mock-up, to take all lessons learned from earlier vehicles into account.

The hull has an internal volume of 14.4 m3 without obstacles from front to back, to which 2.4 m3 of internal and 1.5 m3 of external storage space can be added, the latter divided into three bins on each side.

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The Titus fitted in a 13-soldier configuration, with two five-seat rows for dismounts plus the three seats in the front cabin. (Armada/P. Valpolini)

weight, the front doors can be equipped with electric actuators. Hatches are available to the vehicle and tactical commanders, while two more in the back corners provide access to two light machine guns. The rear ramp can be replaced by two doors.

If comfort enables men to debus in a reasonably good state after a long crosscountry and therefore be fit to fight straight away, well, comfort is part and parcel of ergonomics. The soldiers taking part in the various tests on this particularly harsh – not to say extreme – terrain saw action in former Yugoslavia and Afghanistan and unequivocally confirmed the authors’ opinion on that chapter, namely that the Titus seems heads and shoulders above anything else on six wheels and could hardly be matched by an eight-wheeler. As a matter of fact, we never reached bottoming-out situations, and never heard a clanging protest from the chassis even when the driver appeared to think that an RPG was being aimed at us. The shock absorbing virtues of the Tatra chassis are simply prodigious.

I VERSIONS

The vehicle floor being quite high above the ground, the rear ramp reaches an intermediate step that gives access to the vehicle, the door being flanked by two side grip bars that make egress and access ever so much easier. We personally and repeatedly tested entering and exiting the vehicle which actually sets an example in this respect: the ramp drops lower than the VBCI’s for example, and the intermediate step plays an essential role in increasing doorframe head clearance. On each side of the rear compartment are two rows of facing energy absorbing seats. The maximum number of passengers is 14, in a layout that includes two crew members in the front cab and two six-seat rows in the back, sans tactical commander. With the latter’s centre seat installed, rear seats are limited to 10.

The lower number refers to Félin-equipped personnel, the higher to soldiers with lighter equipment.

Headroom is almost a lofty 1.37 metres while each infantryman has 570 mm width at his disposal, comfort having been heavily taken into count. A noteworthy point is that for armies with Félin-like individual equipment, Nexter has devised a wider type of side door for the driver and commander to allow them easier access. An option sans front right door is also considered. Depending on the protection level and their resultant overall

Three external bins per side provide an extra 1.5 m3 storage volume for individual and section equipment. The Nexter Nerva microrobot stored against the rear bulkead of the Titus would typically be used in urban warfare conditions for “around-the-corner” reconnaissance. (Armada/P. Valpolini)

The aforementioned modularity offers numerous configurations and versions. First of all the APC version can be kitted in different ways according to the threat level and the mission. Nexter proposes six different kits of increasing weight and complexity, seating arrangement remaining 2+9 or 2+11 depending on personnel equipment.

The basic version is used for patrol purposes, its only weapon being a selfprotection remotely controlled 7.62 machine gun. It has three side windows with firing ports, the same found on the other two low-intensity versions proposed, one for public order keeping and one for riot control, all tipping the scales at around 19 tonnes. Loudspeaker, Galix non-lethal grenades and forward crowd fence are used for public order missions, while riot control adds cable cutters, anti-Molotov systems and a dozer blade to remove barricades.

For conventional combat, weight increases to roughly 22 tonnes, the remotely controlled weapon being substituted for a heftier ARX20 turret. The crew compartment protection level is upped to Level 3 (or even 4), side windows give place to add-on armour, while shotgun detection system, IR jammer, LWR, MWR and BIFF, as well as a front winch can also be added. The counter-insurgency configuration includes a 12.7/7.62 mm remote control weapon, a bar-

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What’s Up?

The rear steering axle is here clearly seen at work. At low speed the steering angles of front and rear axle are the same. Above 40 km/h, the rear axle is blocked in-line.

(Armada/Eric H. Biass)

armour against RPGs such as the Nexter PG-Guard, a 360° peripheral camera system, a jammer, and of course all-round Level 4 protection, with highest possible roadside bomb protection; two light machine guns are added at the back of the vehicle, very much in an “Afghanistan lessons learned” configuration.

A similar version can also be equipped with a roof-mounted tactical ladder to allow special forces to directly storm into buildings from higher floors. This of course requires clearance of all roof equipment.

The two latter configurations take the weight to 23 tonnes, which is one tonne short of the heaviest configuration so far envisaged for urban warfare. This basically is the counter-insurgency version with a dozer blade and a Nexter Nerva micro-ground robot for reconnaissance purposes.

Nexter has already envisaged a series of mission kits that will transform the Titus into various support vehicles. Possibilities include an 81 mm mortar carrier with 80 rounds, a tank killer with two firing posts

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The combination of low-dropping ramp and intermediate step on the door threshold that greatly improves ingress/access will be highly appreciated by soldiers wearing heavily armoured vests. (Armada/Paolo Valpolini)

and 12 missiles, and a sniper vehicle with two sniper teams equipped with 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm rifles, all with a three-man crew and three to four team members. True derivatives come in the form of ambulance

with four stretchers, engineer, light recovery and logistic (able to carry a Nato pallet and equipped with rear doors), command post with three working consoles, and artillery observation vehicles, the latter with a

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Margot mast-mounted observation system for example. Even those versions are kitbased and can be reconfigured in theatre.

The only version that requires a major modification to the vehicle is the proposed mortar carrier version armed with a 120 mm rifled TDA 2R2M firing through a twodoor roof hatch.

The kitting principle will make it easier to logistically support the Titus. Nexter is thus developing an increasingly effective logistic system that ranges from spares supply to full turnkey logistic support. Being son of Mrap and of wheeled APC/IFV, according to Nexter the Titus should be able to carry out over 85 % of the missions of an infantry fighting vehicle and all of those required from an armoured personnel carrier in a hybrid conflict, which should open up a considerable market for this new vehicle.

I MARKET

Talking of market, Nexter officials told the authors that they launched the project some two years ago after assessing the incidence

In the counter-insurgency configuration the Titus can be equipped with two rear light machine guns, such as the FN Minimi shown in the picture. (Armada/P. Valpolini)

of two major facts, namely the number of older armoured personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles that are about to be run into the ground on the one hand, and the evolution of hybrid conflict situations in which a number opportunities will be missed by the non-adequacy of larger vehicles like the VBCI and Boxer due to their far too high cost on the other. This analysis enabled the company to evaluate

the potential market at around 1,000 units.

The vehicle seen here is a first prototype, but a second one is planned to incorporate inevitable improvements (some that will then be retrofitted to the first), and perhaps even a more powerful engine. The Titus, which fully complies with open road regulations and rolls straight into an Atlas A400M, could be readied for production in early December.

TITUS TECHNICAL DATA

For conventional combat situations, the Nexter remotely controlled ARX20 should provide convincing power (Armada/Eric H. Biass)

Empty weight Operational weight (Lev. 3) Gross Vehicle Weight Length Width Height Track Engine Maximum speed Endurance Attack angle Exit angle Ground clearance Ramp Side slope Horizontal obstacle Vertical obstacle Fording

17.5 tonnes 23.3 tonnes 27.0 tonnes 7.55 meters 2.55 meters 2.73 meters 2.55 meters Cummins 440 hp (optional 550 hp) 110 km/h > 700 km 40° 60° 0.29 ÷ 0.49 meters (0.38 meters standard) 60% 30% 1.2 meters 0.65 meters 1.2 meters without preparation

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Mout Training Systems

Fake City The first realistic simulation systems were developed for air force pilots, the Vietnam war having showed that the very first missions were those that caused the highest number of casualties. Unsurprisingly, the same phenomenon applies to the infantryman: according to a Darpa survey the learning curve starts to stabilise after the first 100 days in operation, during which 40% of infantry fatalities occur. True realistic training definitely was needed.

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Mout Training Systems new:Armada

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A map of the future MOUT training area that the German Bundeswehr is planning to build at the Altmark Gefechtsübungszentrum. (German Army)

Paolo Valpolini

T

The “Urban Warrior 5” exercise involved some 400 infantrymen and no less than 40 combat vehicles among which Challenger 2s.

(British Ministry of Defence)

he infantryman needs proper realistic training, just as the late 1960s and 1970s pilots did. As pilots started “playing” with Air Combat Manoeuvre Instrumentation-equipped ranges, infantrymen were soon being equipped with laser-based simulation systems that allowed to mimic the realities of war on training grounds. This is even more important for one of the most lethal battlefields that a soldier can encounter, namely the urban environment. Monitoring and evaluating their behaviour in such a scenario is more complex, due to the numerous obstacles that impair not only view but also signals to reach the warfighters.

Numerous companies have addressed that problem, and various armies have built their urban training centres to improve the skills of their soldiers prior to their deployment.

Since the beginning of the Altmark Gefechtsübungszentrum (GÜZ) project, in other words the German Army military training ground, Rheinmetall Defence was fully involved as the leading company of the consortium called to develop the new instrumented training centre with one of its subsidiaries, STN Atlas Elektronik. The other companies involved were EADS/Dornier and Diehl Stiftung & Co. STN Atlas competencies are now part of Rheinmetall Defence Electronics, and since the late ‘90s the GÜZ has consistently evolved. Indeed, in August 1997 the initial configuration allowed up to 800 players to participate in the training, but by the end of pilot phase, in 2003, the system was

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Mout Training Systems

upgraded and 2,500 troops were then being able to exploit the simulation system, which received a further upgrade of the CTC communications in early 2009.

A Rheinmetall company since 2008, RDA (Rheinmetall Dienstleistungszentrum Altmark) is running the Altmark CTC under a public-private partnership scheme.

However, considering today’s growing requirement, the most important step has just started: the increasing importance of urban warfare will be transferred also into the GÜZ. Rheinmetall Defence won a €100 million bid to build Schnöggersburg, a 6 km2 town that will include some 500 buildings with a subway, a financial and historical centre, ghetto-blocks, residential, industry and slum areas, as well as an airport. A shopping mall and a 22-meter wide river will also be part of the set.

Rheinmetall is proposing two different systems, one radio-based system where soldiers equipped with a small ID tag are tracked with an accuracy of few centimetres, and a second which is a much more mobile laser-based system that is able to tell in which room a the soldier is.

Apparently the Bundeswehr requirement is for the second solution, however the configuration is far from being frozen since, so far, only the planning phase was funded.

customer who placed an order with Rheinmetall for a Mout facility in 2009, optical laser-coded transmitters being installed on room ceilings.

Ruag Defence of Switzerland is also involved in CTC simulation and has led the development of the Swiss Army centres, two of which are aimed at open terrain operations and two at urban terrain, one in Bure and the other in Walenstadt , the latter being scheduled for delivery in Fall 2013.

The engagement system is based on the Rheinmetall has been selected by the Bundeswehr to develop Schnöggersburg, a 6 km2 town within the Altmark CTC. The company is currently equipping a similar training area in Russia. (Rheinmetall)

generate injury data, thus triggering realistic effects on the players.

The radio-based system was selected for the new Russian Mout CTC that is being built in Mulino, in the Volga region, Rheinmetall having won the €100 million bid in late 2011 teamed with Russian JSCo Oboronservis. Here the German company is responsible only for the integration of its simulation systems in the town, which is currently being built. In early July 2013 the system passed factory acceptance test, Rheinmetall waiting the buildings to be finished before installing simulation assets.

The laser-based system has been provided to an undisclosed Middle East

The laser simulation system for the 40 mm underbarrel grenade launcher developed by Ruag. (Armada/P. Valpolini)

A Rheinmetall optical position sensor installed inside a room; less precise than radio-based systems, it enables one, however, to quickly instrument existing infrastructures.

(Rheinmetall)

As for direct and indirect fire effects against buildings, and their relevance to the soldiers inside the structure, Rheinmetall equips the outside walls with laser detectors that log in the incoming threat that pass the information to indoor transmitters that in turn send a hit code to the soldiers within the indirect effect range. By taking into account the position of the soldier and a model based the building type it can

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RUAG Gladiator control box allows to verify not only hits but also the level of wounds, and thus the incapacitating level of the action. (Armada/P. Valpolini)

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Artillery, mines and hand grenades are part of the Ruag simulation system that allows to develop realistic and credible scenarios.

(Armada/P. Valpolini)

Ruag Gladiator in its most expanded variant, the Gladiator Mout CTC that includes the localisation of the soldiers within buildings, thanks to a radiofrequency-based locating system installed in the rooms, the outdoor position being provided by a GPS-based system.

Moreover the Gladiator Mout CTC also allows one to receive the attack data that are passed through the building.

The Gladiator provides not only hit warning, but also differentiates kill and wound, thus providing an increased measure of realism by allowing the training of medical units to cut in. Currently Ruag CTCs can cope with 600 players, however an upgrade is being developed to take in 300 more actors in order to simulate asymmetrical warfare situations. Handgrenades, 40 mm underbarrel grenade launchers, artillery, mines and IEDs/booby trap simulation devices have been added to firearms simulators. As for the control centre, the Ruag software allows one to virtually “enter” each room – monitoring and then analysing and replaying the engagement. A set of images captured by the cameras relevant to the action can be pulled up on a screen, providing full control

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of the action and comprehensive debriefing tools. Excon can also take part in a proactive way generating smoke, flashlight or sound into buildings.

In addition to its Swiss Army-related activities, Ruag Defence is working on

The multiple screen at Bure allows Swiss instructors to follow in real time all the actions that are happening in the Mout facility.

(Armada/P. Valpolini)

solutions for Germany and other countries, and is also developing a mobile solution.

The Swiss company was one of the three main actors in the development of the French Army Cenzub (Centre d'entraînement aux actions en zone urbaine). Located within the Sissonne training area west of Paris, a first area of the Jeoffrécourt village was equipped by a team including two French companies, Gavap as prime contractor and Diginext, as well as Ruag. The latter company provided its new-

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The Saab Room Association Device is battery powered and ensure seamless tracking transition from GPS-covered areas into buildings. (Swedish MoD)

generation laser-based small arms combat firing simulator STCAL NG (Simulateur de Tir de Combat aux Armes Légères – Nouvelle Génération), with a 200-gram magnesium laser-emitter, which attached to different interfaces, allows each type of weapon to be simulated (the emitter being triggered by a blank cartridge in the Famas, Minimi and AAN F1, or by a push button in the FR F2 and FR 12.7 sniper rifles). To ensure precise position data inside buildings, Gavap installed ultrawide-band (UWB) emitters in the rooms and integrated UWB tags in the simulation harness. Ultrawide-band is used to locate soldiers inside and close to the buildings, allowing soldiers located on the two opposite sides of a wall to be discriminated, while in the approach area a GPS receiver is used. Data are send to the Comzub box, also integrated by Gavap into the harness.

This transmits them via the HF reception network, installed by Ruag. All data go to the Excon, developed by Diginext, that allows full monitoring of the action and AAR reviewing. The first pilot tranche involved a commercial area with one-storey buildings, while a second tranche is currently under test, and involves a long row of buildings, of up to five-floors. A third tranche should materialise in Q3 2013. Gavap, Ruag and Diginext are proposing their common expertise on the market and are seeking export orders.

This picture provides a good idea of the dimensions of a Rad sensor, the IR system that allows to detect the soldiers presence into a room. (Saab)

Saab is a well established player in the live simulation field and is providing laser effectors and sensors to numerous countries for mechanised and armoured

units. Its infantry Personnel Detection Device and Small Arms Transmitter remains the core of its simulation systems, however Urban Training Package (UTP) is added to cope with Mout situations, in order to provide seamless transition from outside to inside a building, in terms of both positioning and effects.

Saab’s UTP is modular and deployable,

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British soldiers fully equipped with Saab simulation gear taking part in the “Urban Warrior 5” exercise. (UK MoD)

and includes a multi-sensor tracking system that allows one to follow the various players in urban canyons and inside buildings. Positioning is based on the Room Association Device (RAD), an IR system that normally covers doors and window accesses and provides soldiers location with a good degree of accuracy. It is the RAD wireless, battery-powered net that ensure the seamless transition from GPS-covered areas to GPS-blind buildings. A radiofrequency net provides data link coverage with the soldiers systems. A computer-based Structure Information Device contains information on the building/area, while the Direct Fire Module allows the effects of direct fire such as tank gunfire on buildings to be simulated. The DFM senses the building zone under attack communicating primary and secondary effects to the players inside. The system is compatible both with Miles and Osag systems. (The Osag 2.0 Basic’ optical code was developed by Saab in cooperation with

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the German BWB in order to set a standard for simulation devices).

A hand grenade simulator as well as reactive targets and audio and video systems can also be added, and the Combat Net Radio can be recorded for later evaluation.

The Saab system also includes a full rehearsal and after-action review system with 2D and 3D representations of the urban terrain; a portable modular digital video monitoring and recording system allows to readily select time-coded video.

The Gamer manpack man-portable, instantly deployable exercise-control-andevaluation system can. The UTP has been provided to numerous customers among which the US Marine Corps, the Royal Netherlands Army, the Austrian Army and the British Army.

In December 2012 the British Army carried out a further Mout training experiment aimed at verifying how an armoured infantry company group supported by MBTs would operate in an urban scenario of the future, and to try and understand what simulation environments (live, virtual or constructive) are most effective in answering different types of

conceptual development question. Dubbed “Urban Warrior 5” the exercise was carried out at the French Cenzub Mout facility and was supported by Niteworks, responsible for managing the technical aspects of the live experiment, including collating and analysing the mass of data generated, Swedish Saab and QinetiQ UK, who provided simulation tools and “synthetic wrap” to imitate other key elements of the battlefield.

Saab fielded 400 player systems, 40 armoured vehicles from Challenger 2s and Warriors to Protected Mobility variants, 60 anti-tank weapons, enough instrumentation to provide indoor tracking and throughwall effects in up to 20 buildings at a time, an Excon capability, and a small team of analysts to support the Niteworks experimentation team. The experience acquired with Urban Warrior 5 and in a previous exercise in Scotland makes Saab confident of its capacity to move training capability anywhere its customers needs it.

Lessons learned in terms of tracking fidelity, tuneable lethality and vulnerability, bandwidth, rapid and disseminated replay, dynamic analysis tools, installation speed, and realistic special effects will be exploited

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to further developing those issues in order to improve the level of training support.

According to Saab two persons in one day can rig up to five houses of medium dimensions, these being then reproduced on the Excon computer for monitoring and after action replay purposes.

The latest facility developed by Saab Training Systems is the Swedish Army new Mout installation in Kvarn, 40 km west of Linköping. To cover the entire village, which means over 100 rooms and 1,100 windows, some 4,000 room association devices have been installed as well as over 500 video cameras, split between daylight, intensification and thermal cameras.

Currently the village is rigged only for dismounted operations but the Swedish Army intends to upgrade it by instrumenting all types of players. Excon receives full video, audio, position and status of each room, and is able to induce elements such as smoke, simulated fire, and audio effects such as those of helicopters, crowds, etc.

Other Mout training solution comes from the virtual world. Observing an infantry team moving in a funny way in an A Warrior AIFV on the move at Sissonne during exercise “Urban Warrior 5” carried out in France by the British Army in December 2012. (UK MoD)

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empty space may seem somewhat odd, until you notice that each member of the squad wears an optical viewer in which he can see a virtual reality scenario that evolves as he progresses and changes his position and line of sight. Although not a substitute of larger and much more expensive training systems, virtual reality solutions can however allow to reach higher training skills before deploying the unit to a Mout training facility, thus better exploiting the time at that location and, in the end, acquire a higher overall training level.

Saab sensors installed in the Kvarn Mout training facility recently delivered to the Swedish Army. (Swedish MoD)

Numerous virtual companies are proposing their products for military training. Quantum3D entered this market in 2003 and has since developed a manwearable immersive solution that was adopted in 2011 by the US Army. The ExpeditionDI Warrior is made of a number of elements centred around the wearable

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The Q3D system allows to overlay virtual images in order to obtain a fully realistic scenario. The enemy as well as further friendly forces can be virtually injected into the scenario. (Q3D)

computer, installed on the back of the soldier’ load-bearing vest. Battery-powered, the simulation platform is capable of running the most advanced software thanks to the quad-core Intel processor and an NVIDIA graphics processing unit. Fully wireless, the system uses a 60° FoV headmounted display with a 1280 x 124 high resolution screen to provide the soldier with the best possible immersive view of the training scenario, while instrumented weapons that mimic real M4, M4/M320 and M249 are currently available. A head tracker and a body posture tracker based on inertial magnetic sensors allow the system to record

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instantly the soldier’s movements and position, providing the corresponding pictures on the display. An audio headset delivers surround sound and IP radio, and an integrated microphone allows realistic tactical communications.

All comms are recorded for after-action review. The ExpeditionDI is an open architecture platform and can support numerous different simulation software – any software being able to be integrated using the ExpeditionDI Software Developers Kit. As the system can be installed in any location, a shed can easily host the system.

The ExpeditionDI can be deployed downrange allowing mission rehearsal, a physical space of 3 x 3 metres being needed for each user, the virtual playground being unlimited. Depending on the size and complexity of the desired scenario, the design can take as little as an hour, or up to a few months for more detailed scenarios.

In February 2013 Quantum3D announced its teaming with UK Antycip Simulation, part of ST Electronics, for the distribution of its ExpeditionDI in Europe.

Georgia-based Motion Reality is active in motion-capture technology since 1984 and is providing military customers with its Virtsim Military, an untethered, fully immersive simulation system allowing the execution of basic individual manoeuvres, complex unit tactics, and mission rehearsals in various types of scenarios, Mout being obviously included. Individuals, teams, or full squads can move on a surface of over 450m2.

Trainees wear the Virtsim gear over their equipment and carry replica rifles or handguns providing recoil and simulating the proper magazine round content, commanding magazine change. Moreover malfunctions can also be introduced via wireless commands. Full 3D after-action review is provided.

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RUSSIAN MILITARY MOTOR VEHICLES: FOR ON-ROAD AND OFF-ROAD DRIVING IN MOUNTAINS AND DESERTS

R

Urals in combat

ussia is resuming the supply of advanced weapon platforms to China in a move that may have implications for India. At the end of last year, Russia concluded a framework agreement with China for the sale of four Amur-1650 diesel submarines. In January it signed another intergovernmental agreement for the supply of Russia’s latest Su-35 long-range fighter planes.

Due to difficult road and climatic conditions, vast distances, wars which the Soviet Union and Russia were drawn into, as well as a historically formed school of automotive design and engineering, the Russians have acquired the knack of making excellent highly reliable all-terrain military motor vehicles capable of driving crosscountry and the most difficult routes.

First of all it refers to a family of Ural vehicles. They were purposefully designed as army trucks for extreme operation conditions. Their high off-road capability is provided by special axle design, a central tire pressure control system and other technical features. The vehicle safely goes where others cannot move got stuck in the mud, buried in the sand, skidding in the snow or stuck among the boulders, logs or the ruins of urban buildings. It easily negotiates trenches 0.6-1.2 m wide, vertical walls up to 0.55 m high, water obstacles up to 1.75 m

deep, slopes up to 20 degrees, and side slopes up to 31 degrees. The Ural reliably operates at the temperatures of -50 to +50 °C and at an altitude of up to 4500 meters above sea level. The vehicles are equipped with various types of diesel engines meeting the Euro 0 to Euro 3 emission standards.

Compliance with modern requirements and broad commonality between components and assemblies make the Ural family basic for the troops and enable its effective use jointly with armored vehicles on the march and at the forefront for towing artillery systems, transportation of ammunition and soldiers.

The advantages of the Ural vehicles are obvious: outside storage, easy maintenance and a number of design features proven during the years of operation. The base models of the family are available in 4x4, 6x6, and 8x8 variants. A design feature provides a high level of crew protection against landmine blasts. There are also versions with an additional protection set – heavy hidden armor plating that helps preserve the lives of people and cargo.

These powerful trucks have excellently proved themselves in many parts of the world. The Mexicans used them extensively when eliminating the consequences of Hurricane Katrina, the Uruguayans - in UN missions in Congo and Haiti, Guatemalans -

in operations against drug trafficking. In 1994, the Ural became the world's first truck that passed through the polar North on the London - New York rally route Today the Ural multi-purpose vehicles are in service with the armies in more than 40 countries and have established themselves as the standard of cross-country capacity, endurance and reliability. Moreover, different combatant arms use more than 400 items of special equipment and weapons installed on Ural chassis, because its capacity is 6 to 12 tons and the weight of the towed trailer ranges from 7 to 12 tons.

The best features of Russian military vehicles have been embodied in a series of KamAZ military trucks developed around commercial models. Owing to the additional features – high power-to-weight ratio, increased safety margin of the whole structure, easy steering, reliable brakes and a comfortable cabin – the family of KamAZ military trucks has received the highest category of quality. The war in Afghanistan and other conflicts of recent years have proved a high cross-country capability, reliability, endurance and easy maintenance of these vehicles. KamAZ trucks are used to mount weapons and military equipment, tow artillery systems, special and transport trailers, as well as to carry troops and military cargo on the roads of all categories and across rugged and difficult terrain.

Excellent capabilities of the vehicle were appreciated by overseas buyers. More than a thousand of these vehicles had been sold to Qatar, Bahrain, Yemen, and Syria in 2004-2011 alone.

Meanwhile, JSC KamAZ continues to step up the pace of production of both military and commercial vehicles. In 2012, the 2,000,000th truck rolled off the assembly line.

In some years, KamAZ vehicles made up one third of the domestic truck fleet, carrying up to two-thirds of all cargo delivered by road.

The Company’s export deliveries grow, too. So, 13,500 vehicles of various makes were sold abroad in 2007, which accounted for 25.5 percent of the total output. That is why KamAZ is the eight-time winner of the Best Russian Exporter competition. The possibility of establishing assembly

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production of KamAZ trucks in Cuba is under consideration and the output will be 500 vehicles a year. Similar projects are being studied also by other countries.

Meanwhile, KamAZ continues to fascinate specialists year after year. These trucks have won the prestigious Dakar (earlier Paris Dakar) Rally 11 times and other top-level international races. The last victory was won in the Lima – Santiago Rally in 2013.

The GAZ-2330 Tigr multi-purpose, allterrain armored vehicles, adopted by Russia’s Ministry of Defense and Ministry Internal Affairs, will also be of interest to Rosoboronexport’s foreign partners. This is a conventional all-wheel-drive armored vehicle.

The gross weight of the GAZ-2330 is seven tons. The vehicle is designed to operate at any time of day and year at the temperatures of 45 °C to +50 °C. It is indispensable in the search-and-rescue and special operations. Its high cross-country capacity is ensured by a high ground clearance, all-wheel independent suspension and an automatic tire pressure control system. That is why the Tigr climbs a 35 degree slope, negotiates a side slope of 35 deg, a trench up to 0.5 m wide, a vertical wall 0.4 m high and a ford up 1.2 meters deep. Its high maneuverability, speed up to 140 km/h, cruising range of 900 km and payload capacity of 1.5 tons (up to 11 troopers with arms) are provided by a powerful diesel engine enabling the vehicle to overcome mountain passes at an altitude of 4650 m above sea level. In addition, armor protection of the Tigr body corresponds to STANAG

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Level II and mine resistance – to Level I. Depending on the body type, the GAZ-2330 has three to five doors providing quick, comfortable and safe boarding and landing of servicemen.

A unique, fully independent suspension with stabilizer bars, original shock absorbers and a lever fulcrum of unusual design enable the vehicle to drive on any road and off-road, providing a smooth ride, reliable handling and stability.

The Tigr uses a mechanical transmission, which, at customer request, can be replaced with an Allison automatic transmission and the disc brake wheels – with French Michelin tires.

There are places in the vehicle to install and mount various weapons, including the Kornet-EM anti-tank missile system (ATMS).

The system uses 8 ready-to-fire missiles and its full ammunition load consists of 16 missiles. Salvo firing at two targets significantly increases the firing capabilities and rate of fire of the ATMS. The system can fire all the existing Kornet-E missiles and meets all the requirements for current and future anti-tank systems. Advanced and relatively low-cost technology solutions give the Kornet-EM a number of entirely new capabilities. Originally developed to counter tanks, today the Kornet-EM is effectively used to destroy other targets: soft-skinned and lightly armored vehicles, manpower, various kinds of fortifications, infrastructure elements and even air targets.

For partner countries intending to develop their own production and maintenance of military vehicles, Rosoboronexport offers to organize knockdown assembly of the Ural and Tigr vehicles in foreign customers’ territory.

In addition, large-scale production of brand new models of armored vehicles is being prepared in Russia.

Among them is the VPK-3924 SPM-3 Medved ("Bear") special armored vehicle. Despite it has recently completed a series of the official tests, there is already a government contract for the vehicle and requests are coming from foreign partners.

Armada Marketing Promotion

Tigr with Kornet-EM Thanks to its high levels of protection, cross-country capacity and cruising range, the Medved is capable of successfully performing a wide range of special missions in different urban environments, as well as in remote areas of the land border and in difficult terrain.

Various weapons can be installed on the Medved while assault troopers (7-8 fullyequipped fighters, not including the driver and the vehicle commander) can use their personal weapons through portholes.

The armored vehicle is equipped with a Russian new-generation 300hp diesel engine, the YaAMZ-536, having the service life of up to 800,000 km. The Medved uses proven automotive components. The vehicle body (a steel armored monocoque construction with bulletproof windows) provides STANAG 4569 Level III ballistic protection for the crew and troopers. The bottom of the body is V-shaped to withstand an explosion of a 6 kg (TNT equivalent) mine. The vehicle weighs 14 tons; its maximum speed is 100 km/h, range - up to 1,000 km. The Medved is equipped with an instantaneous smoke screen laying system protecting the vehicle not only from the optical and laser sights, but also from electro-optical and thermal imaging equipment. Multi-action automatic fire suppression systems extinguish fires in the engine transmission compartment and in wheels. To ensure crew habitability and survivability, provision is made for air conditioner, heater, and scuttle cask.

The high performance characteristics of the armored vehicle ensure its successful use by army units, police, special forces and peacekeeping units in the most difficult geographic and climatic conditions in both on-road and off-road situations.

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Remote-control Cannon Proliferation at Sea In recent years, worldwide Naval Forces have been faced with new challenges ranging from the outburst of global terrorism to the shift of naval warfare to littoral scenarios.

To cope with a wider range of non-traditional asymmetrical threats ranging from small high-speed surface craft used for suicide attacks with explosives or for piracy acts, to fast inshore attack craft armed with heavy machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades or anti-tank missiles, not to mention low and slow air vehicles such as helicopters, light aircraft and unmanned platforms, many Naval Forces have invested in small-calibre guns to protect their fleet platforms.

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Luca Peruzzi

A

longside light weapon systems such as pintle-mounted 7.62mm machine guns, small-calibre weapon systems using 20 to 30 mm-calibre cannon have been introduced to provide increased range and significantly greater stopping power. From non-powered and manually operated solutions, many naval forces and companies have developed powered and stabilised mounts that are able to fire regardless of ship motion, fitted with advanced sights and remote controls to enhance protection.

I RAFAEL

A Rafael Typhoon here seen on an Australian Armidale OPV. (Austal)

Based on the requirement drawn from experience gained by the Israeli Defence Forces and demonstrated during at-sea livefiring trials for the first time in mid-1995, the Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Typhoon naval stabilized and remotely operated gun system family can claim to be the first of its kind to have hit the market and achieved significant sales success.

Designed to be operated independently by using an on-mount electro-optical package that includes a television camera, a thermal imager and a laser range-finder, (though it can be slaved to an off-mount electrooptical director), the Typhoon performs its fire-control calculations using its own onmount ballistic computer. Able to receive a range of guns up to 30mm with on-mount ammunition stowage of 200 rounds depending on calibre, the highly stabilized mounting with a pointing accuracy of less then 0.5 mrad can accommodate a 7.62mm co-axial machine gun, adding a back-up and saving ammunition costs during training. Able to operate autonomously or in a slaved mode (in which case the system is controlled from an operator console and slaved to a surveillance or fire-control system that calculates lead angle and elevation for accurate line-of-sight target tracking), the Typhoon family includes mountings incorporating either surface-to-surface or surface-to-air missiles in addition to the gun. For example the Typhoon NTD employs Spike-ER missiles while the Typhoon GSA model adds unspecified short-range surface-to-air missiles. In addition to Australia, Columbia, India, Singapore and Sri Lanka, the Typhoon was selected by the US Navy to whom it is supplied as the Mk

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38 Mod 2 Machine Gun System Ordnance alteration (Ordalt).

BAE Systems, teamed with Rafael, is upgrading legacy Mk 38 Mod 0/1 mountings, based on the ATK M242 Bushmaster 25 mm chain gun, with a fully stabilised Typhoon gun mount and on-mount TopLite EOD. The Mk 38 Mod 2 also saw Foreign Military Sales contract awards from the Philippines and Spain.

I OTO MELARA

With a long history as a supplier of smallcalibre naval guns ranging from 12.7 to 40 mm, Finmeccanica’s Oto Melara developed the Mod 584 single 30 mm Marlin-WS (Modular Advanced Remotely controlled Lightweight Naval Weapon Station) to meet the emerging requirement of modern naval warfare. The Marlin-WS introduces a new modular configuration that offers the flexibility to accommodate different weapon, sensors and fire-controls on a fully stabilised lightweight non-deck penetrating mount.

Adopting a fully digital architecture, it can be

To equip its Fincantieri-built Saettia patrol vessels, the Iraqi Navy has acquired the Marlin-WS version with coaxially mounted electro-optical sensors. The modularity of the Marlin becomes particularly obvious when comparing this picture with the other Marlin photographed by the author showing the weapon systems on board the Holland patrol vessel. (Oto Melara)

Under teaming between BAE Systems and Rafael, the US Navy is upgrading Mk 38 Mod 0/1 guns with a fully stabilized Typhoon gun mounting and on-mount TopLite EOD. The same system has already been sold to Spain and the Philippines. (Luca Peruzzi)

Oto Melara’s Marlin-WS) introduces a new modular configuration offering the flexibility to accommodate different weapons, sensors and fire-control systems. In this Holland OPV installation for example, the electro-optical suite is on an independent mount. (Luca Peruzzi)

configured to support a number of modes, including remote-control and slaved to ship combat system, remote or autonomous using an independent electro-optical sensors package and on-mount ballistic computer, and remote or autonomous operation using an on-mount coaxial electro-optical suite with ballistic computer.

Offered with Rheinmetall Mk 30-2 and ATK Mk 44 30 mm cannon with an on-

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mount ammunition capacity of 160 rounds, Oerlikon KBA and ATK M242 Bushmaster 25mm guns with 200 rounds on-mount stowage, the general configuration of the Marlin includes a dual ammunition feed system with selectable feeder, two-axis mount, gun cradle, motor gearboxes for elevation and training, angular position transducers, a servo-drive module and an electro-optical package. Off-mount systems

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During the IDEF 2013 exhibition, Oto Melara presented the latest model of its 40 mm gun mount. The single Fast Forty naval gun comes with an enhanced Bofors 40mm capable of a 450 round-per-minute firing rate with dual feeder and amongst other improvements, reduced weight and a radar cross-section reduction shield. (Oto Melara)

installed on Iraqi Navy’s Fincantieri-built Fateh-class patrol vessel, the United Arab Emirates Abu Dhabi-class corvettes, support ships and Coast Guard vessels, the Netherlands Navy’s Holland-class offshore patrol vessels, the Portuguese Navy’s Viana do Castelo-class OPVs. It is also ordered for the Royal Omani Navy’s Al-Ofouq class patrol vessels. include below-deck power supply unit and remote-control console.

With an unladen weight of 1,090-to1,350kg depending on gun, ammunition and electronic package, the Marlin-WS is also offered in a yet-to-be tested configuration

that would include two twin-tube launcher modules for both MBDA Mistral and KBM 9M342 Igla-S surface-to-air missiles.

Providing high performances in terms of traverse/elevation rates, according to Oto Melara, the Marlin-WS has been sold and

MSI-Defence Systems of Britain has delivered more than 240 Seahawk stabilised mountings, using 25 and 30 mm guns to at least 16 navies. The Sigma version also features short-range surface-to-air missiles. Here featured is the DS30 on board the Sandown class MCM vessel during the IDEX 2013 exhibition.

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I MSI-DEFENCE

With more than 240 Seahawk stabilised mountings, using 25mm or 30mm guns, sold to at least 16 navies, Britain’s MSI-Defence Systems offers a complete family of 20/25/30 mm naval gun systems, which uses a standard range of control system configurations, including the ‘Remsig’ option with system controlled via vessel combat system, the autonomous ‘A1’ option with onmount suite of electro-optic sensors and the

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At IDEX 2013, MSI-Defence Systems presented the Seahawk 20mm baseline system employing the Denel G12 20mm, which is particularly intended for 20-metre boats.

(Luca Peruzzi)

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more sophisticated ‘A2’ with gun control system supported by a remote EOD. Cradling ATK Mk44/M242, Oerlikon KCB or Rheinmetall Mk 30-2 guns in dual or single feed configurations (or a mix of gun and surface-to-air missiles in the Sigma

configuration), the Seahawk portfolio builds on the earlier DS25/30 and DS30M Mk 2 Autonomous Small-Calibre Gun (ASCG) in service with on Royal Navy Type 23 frigates to meet the service’s Defensive Anti-Surface Warfare requirement, with additional orders expected for other platforms of the Senior Service.

MSI-Defence Systems has already sold or delivered Seahawk systems to Algeria, Malaysia, New Zealand, Oman, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Thailand and more recently to Iraq. Through US foreign military sales, the company is providing the Iraqi Navy with fully autonomous DS30M A2 Seahawks equipped with ATK Mk44 30 mm guns, below-deck control console, off-mount EOD, autotracker and ballistic computer.

To meet the growing demand for a primary weapon to be installed on smaller coast-guard and constabulary craft down to about 20 metres, MSI-Defence Systems also offers the 20mm Seahawk Lightweight, which offers the benefit of minimal footprint, easy installation and low power consumption. Presented in model form at IDEX 2013, the 20mm baseline Seahawk

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With the acquisition of EM Digital to create Rheinmetall Advanced Stabilised Platform (SASP), the German Defence group has enlarged its product portfolio of remotely controlled naval guns, including the WS 30 lightweight 30mm system seen here. (Luca Peruzzi)

employs a Denel G12 20mm cannon, an electro-optical sensor package, an autotracker and a compact remote-control console, but MSI-Defence Systems sees significant retrofit potential for customers wishing to reuse legacy ordnance and 20mm x 139 ammunition from manually operated 20mm systems.

I RHEINMETALL

Germany’s Rheinmetall Defence MLG 27 stabilised, remotely controlled, non-deck penetrating small-calibre gun is a German Navy fleetwide installation, but recently saw installation on foreign platforms. The United Arab Emirates deploy the MLG 27 on board Baynunah-class corvettes and Ghannathaclass fast patrol boats, while the Kuwait Naval Forces acquired the system to equip Mk V fast patrol boats, being delivered under a US FMS contract. Based on the same 27mm BK 27 gas-operated revolver cannon fitted to Typhoon and Tornado combat aircraft, it can fire up to 1,700 27x145mm frangible armour-piercing sabot (FAPDS) rounds per minute, of which 90 are available

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as ready-to-fire ammo. Developed as an allpurpose ammunition for naval applications, Rheinmetall claims it achieves similar penetration as a sub-calibre kinetic energy round, but also delivers fragmentationbased incendiary effects comparable to highexplosive ammunition.

Conceived to replace 20 and 40mm guns in German Navy, the 850kg MLG 27 relies

on a non-deck penetrating mount and an Atlas Elektronik fire control system that includes target tracking and fire control computation. Controlled from a remote console, tracking and fire control is assisted by a stabilised electro-optical package (daylight TV camera, thermal imager, laser rangefinder, dual-mode video-tracker, and associated interface electronics) mounted on the gun’s trunnion. With the announced acquisition last September of EM Digital in Britain to create Rheinmetall Advanced Stabilised Platform, the German defence group has widened the range of stabilised modular platforms from small (5.56mm to 14.5mm and 40mm automatic grenade launchers) to medium-calibre weapons (20mm - 40mm), including the WS30 lightweight 30mm system developed by EM Digital in conjunction with a South Asian Navy.

The Rheinmetall MLG 27 mm saw an interesting development on its domestic market, having been earmarked to equip both German Navy combat and support vessels; abroad, and particularly in the Middle East, it is already in service with United Arab Emirates and Kuwait Naval Forces. (Luca Peruzzi)

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I NEXTER

Building on experience garnered with very lightweight gun mounts (15A/15B) and technologies used for helicopter gun turrets (THL20/THL30), France’s Nexter Systems developed the Narwhal – a smart acronym indeed to cover Naval Remote Weapon Highly Accurate, Lightweight. Currently promoted in two versions, the most sophisticated Narwhal 20B which features a 20M963 gun firing 20mm x 139mm munitions, with single feed and a gun recocking unit for a total weight of 470kg including ammunition, and the Narwhal 20A which sports a 20M621 with 20mm x 102 standard Nato ammunition, are stabilized in elevation and azimuth. They carry their own electro-optical sensor with dual-field camera, uncooled thermal imager, laser rangefinder and moving target autotracker.

Characterized, according to Nexter, by compactness, lightness and low stresses to the carrier platform, the system is operated from

France’s Nexter Systems developed two versions of the Narwhal. The most sophisticated one is the Narwhal 20B seen here, that has been ordered for the French Navy’s Fremm frigate fleet.

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a remote console allowing manual or automatic modes, but can be integrated with the combat system for slaved fire control.

With a 3,000m target detection and a 1,500m effective firing range, the Narwhal 20A prototype has been successfully tested in inclement sea and weather conditions on board a OCEA shipyard platform against targets at ranges of 500 to 1,200 metres. To provide the French Navy’s Aquitaine class Fremm multi-mission frigates with close-in protection, DCNS ordered Nexter 22 Narwhal 20Bs in November 2011, with installation to start on the second-of-class Normandie. The system is believed to have also been ordered for the single Fremm being built for the Royal Moroccan Navy.

I ASELSAN

In parallel to its successful and well-proven 12,7/25 mm equipped Stamp/Stop products, Turkey’s Aselsan presented the Muhafiz 30 mm remotely controlled and stabilized naval gun system at IDEF 2013. Fed via two separate ammunition lines, the 200-round per minute, 30 mm Mk44 Bushmaster-II gun is integrated on stabilized pedestal. The independent electro-optical suite, which can accommodate thermal and TV cameras, a laser range finder and gyroscope, can operate in a surveillance mode without aiming the gun.

Tipping the scales at 1,250 kilos including 150 rounds, the Muhafiz does not require deck penetration and provides automatic target detection and tracking, ballistic calculation and slew to targets assigned from external sensors and command and control systems. With a demonstrated effective range of 1,500 metres and high tracking and firing ability with high probability of hit accuracy at the same range, the Muhafiz was selected for the 34-metre MRTP 34 fast patrol/attack craft being built by the Turkish Yonca-Onuk shipyard for the Qatar Armed Forces. It was also tested by the United Arab Emirates.

I REUTECH

Based on a South African Navy requirement for a 20 mm system as primary armament for its future inshore patrol vessel and secondary weapon for future OPVs and auxiliary ships, and the Rogue family of remotely weapon systems (RWS) for 12,7mm lightweight gun, South Africa’s Reutech Solutions developed the Super Rogue 20 mm gun system.

Weighing less than 500kg and using the Rogue’s electronics, the new mount features a GI-2 gun firing standard 20mm x 139mm, and carries a day camera and a thermal imager. The Benin Navy is the first customer of the Super Rogue 20 mm gun system, which

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was installed by French shipbuilder OCEA on board new 35 mm FPB 98 patrol craft to be delivered to the African Navy.

I BOFORS 40 REVISITED

Presented by Aselsan at IDEF 2013, the Muhafiz 30 mm system employs Mk44 Bushmaster-II and includes a 150-round container. The elector-optical suite can operate independently from the gun. It will equip the Qatar Naval Forces new MRTP 34 fast patrol/attack craft. (Luca Peruzzi)

The request for lightweight primary weapon systems to be installed on smaller coast-guard and constabulary craft, capable to counter evolving threats at reduced life-costs, as well as the potential number of Bofors 40mm users that could be interested in extending their systems’ service life, has pushed well- and less well-known producers of this gun, namely BAE Systems and Oto Melara, to develop new versions of their product families.

BAE Systems completed the development programme of the newgeneration 40mm Mk 4 version in the fourth quarter of last year, after successful firing trails conducted between October and November from the Swedish Navy’s 36.5m picket boat Jägaren in the waters north of Gothenburg. Developed as a private venture since 2009, with the aim of arming small inshore patrol craft and OPVs with a compact, lightweight, and affordable multirole weapon system, the Bofors 40

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Naval Mid-Cal Remote-Contol Guns

Developped for inshore craft and OPVs, the new-generation Bofors 40 Mk 4 gun mount is claimed to offer a 40% reduction in volume, weight and price compared to the earlier Mk 3 version. (BAE Systems).

Mk4 gun system was conceived and developed to obtain a 40% reduction in volume, weight and price compared to earlier Mk3 version. BAE Systems believes in new market opportunities for the patrol craft sector, which was previously denied due to heavier 40mm turrets. BAE Systems has substantially re-engineered the mount introducing a more compact cupola, a fullydigitised modular architecture (providing weapon synergies and future flexibility), the same elevation mass as the Swedish Army’s CV 90 armoured vehicle family’s, and new electric drives instead of the older hybrid electro-hydraulic types. The company also involved the suppliers in the product fine-tuning and cost reduction phases. Weighing less than 2,500kg without ammunition compared to the older 3,700kg Bofors 40mm Mk 3, the new model has 100 ready-to-fire rounds, with the possibility to shift between two different ammunitions types. Remotely-operated from an offmount fire-control system using a digital interface, the Mk4 gun is also available in a gyro-stabilised locally controlled version with TV camera sight and optional

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muzzle velocity radar for the man-on-themount configuration. Capable to fire any 40mm L/70 round according to BAE Systems, the company promotes full compatibility with the latest programmable 3P ammunition, providing 6-mode programmable all-target ammunition, which means less round types, transport, storage, weight and space requirements.

With a maximum range of 12.5km and a cyclic rate of fire of up to 300rds/min, the operator can now select any firing rate between 30rds/min and 300 rds/min. BAE Systems is now pushing marketing activities with initial focus on existing 40 mm users, including Royal Swedish Navy, as well as international shipyards, with a first customer contract foreseen to be secured this year.

I ADIK & OTO MELARA

Last December, an undisclosed value contract was signed between Turkey’s Anadolu shipyard (Adik) and Italy’s Oto Melara for the supply of a new-generation Single Fast Forty 40mm multipurpose naval mount to be installed on board the

two LST (Landing Ship Tank) platforms being built for Turkish Navy. Designed to satisfy the requirements of full automation, high reliability, easy installation and reduced maintenance, the new gun mount is the latest application of Oto Melara’s 40 mm gun production, which is based on a higher rate-of-fire model developed in past years by the same company, and capable of 450rds per minute with a dual ammunition feed providing two different types of 144 ready-to-fire ammunitions.

Characterized by a new mount without deck penetration and a reduced radar cross-section shield, the Single Fast Forty is being marketed in three different versions, from a full CMS slaved configuration to a stand-alone, locally managed by a dedicated command and control console or man on-board the mount, configuration with or without integrated EO/IR fire control system and fully stabilized platform, with a weight ranging from 4,350 to 4,600kg with ammunition. Designed to engage both air and naval threats, the Single Fast Forty mount has been selected by Turkey in its most sophisticated version (with also man on-board the mount) with a view to mounting two on each of its LSTs as of 2016.

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Acoustic Gunshot Detection Systems Better situational awareness has become paramount for the soldier in the field, whether he is dismounted or on board a vehicle. Acoustic sensors capable of telling the soldier where enemy fire is coming from have thus become a common sight on the battlefield. Soldier-worn systems performances are necessarily limited by their dimensions, although new technologies are coming to the rescue in this department, while vehicle-borne systems have become the “ears” of the vehicle itself.

Base protection is another major area of application for acoustic shotgun detection systems.

Paolo Valpolini

S

ince 2008 the QinetiQ North America Swats (Shoulder-Worn Acoustic Targeting System) is the situational awareness of US soldiers deployed downrange. A total of nearly 17,000 systems have been sold to the US Army, where it is known as the Individual Gunshot Detector. It is also used by the Marine Corps.

The core of the system is a 300-gram shoulder-carried sensor pad that contains the

microphones, a GPS receiver, a gyro, a magnetic compass and accelerometers. With an accuracy of ±7.5° in azimuth and a 10% in range (its maximum declared range is 400 metres in the open), it proved very reliable, returns on warranty from the field having amounted to less than 1%. Not only does the Swats provide the soldier with the relative position of the gunshot source, but it also records the grids in the system to update that relative position while the soldier moves and to share this with other elements of the squad. The information is available through

an aural device or with a display unit weighing 110 grams.

Available to Nato countries via the NSPA, the Swats is in service in France, Australia and an undisclosed Asian nation, and was recently ordered by a Middle East nation.

Active tenders are underway in Europe and the Middle East. QinetiQ NA is constantly updating the system via software adding new languages and features; new algorithms are being implemented to increase detection range, while a more efficient use of components will increase battery life, Information from the QinetiQ Swats can be provided to the soldier either via an audio signal or as a visual info in the helmet mounted display. (QinetiQ)

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currently of about 14 hours. QinetiQ is however already working on a wholly new system that features a waterproof, larger higher resolution screen with a simplified menu structure, a new lighter, smaller sensor ensuring a x50 higher speed, and a 100 times larger memory allowing to accommodate more sophisticated algorithms.

QinetiQ has developed the Ears FSS (Fixed Site System) that starts to attract some interest for base protection, as well as the Ears VMS (Vehicle Mounted System) that is currently being requested by some customers. However the company is developing a new vehicle system with improved angular and range accuracy that will also provide a 3-D image of the scene to allow it to be used as a targeting item for RCWS. Currently at TRL 6-7, it was

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Rheinmetall developed the AkSL detector which is now offered as part of the Gladius soldier modernisation package (Armada/P. Valpolini)

demonstrated last year to the US Army.

QinetiQ did not provide a launch date for any of its new systems.

I BOOMERANG

With over 10,000 Boomerangs sold to various nations (with most of these deployed in theatre), Raytheon BBN is another major player in this field. No significant announcements have been made since our last article on this subject, but in the mean time Raytheon BBN developed the Boomerang Warrior-XP (where the “p” stands for “Perimeter”) for use as a defence solution for bivouacs and camps. The unit

weighs less than 6kg, which is much lighter and smaller than the original Boomerang, and comprises a sensor and a power/network box that allows numerous sensors to be linked to the Boomerang Situation Awareness System and thus cover 360° (although the Warrior XP can work as a stand-alone item). The system runs on a ruggedised laptop using Windows 7 and provides shooter localization in azimuth, range, elevation and 10-digit grid coordinates, data being automatically fused for a more accurate solution shown on an intuitive map display. It also shows the bullet detection zone, thus the threatened area.

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Base protection is becoming one of the main roles for shotgun detection systems, here a QuinetiQ tripod-mounted Ears sensor on a fixed site in Afghanistan (left). Vehicle crew situational awareness is considerably increased with such detectors, as exemplified by this vehicle-mounted Ears-VMS version. (QinetiQ)

Shooter locations may be stored for afteraction review or intelligence purposes.

According to BBN the Warrior XP detects over 90% of the shots. Bullet miss detection is 1 to 25 metres, false alarm rate less than 1% and response time 1.5 seconds, and power being provided by the Ethernet link, the operational duration is indefinite.

The company is also still developing what used to be called the Haltt (Helicopter Alert and Threat Termination – Acoustic), but now known as Boomerang Air. It uses a modified software to filter out the aircraft’s own noise and vibration. Its sensors are integrated within the helicopter’s body and is thus is not easy to identify. Their number varies with aircraft type and size, though the company declined to provide any further details.

I PDCUE

Another vehicle system is the AAI Textron PDCue, a pretty good acronym for Projectile Detection and Cueing, which is based on four sensor arrays located at the vehicle’s corners that ensure full 360° coverage. The separation of the sensors ensures high azimuth and elevation accuracy, error being in the order of ±1° for both angles, while range error is less than 25% but improves at ranges beyond 350

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metres (maximum range is 1.2 km). The PDCue was integrated on the M1151 uparmoured Humvee and the Crows II remote control weapon station for operational evaluation. The company did not provide any further comment on the most recent evolution as it currently is involved in some sensitive bids.

I PILAR

In mid-2012 Acoem-Metravib added a

new product to its acoustic sensors portfolio. Already seen previously at prototype stage, the Pearl (Personal Equipment Add-on for Reactive Localization) is aimed at providing the single warfighter with a low-cost gunshot detection and localization system to be installed via a Picatinny rail on assault rifles, machine guns or sniper rifles. A single-piece system, it includes a small miniaturised acoustic sensor array with embedded

AAI Textron developed the PDCue, which has been integrated with a Crows II weapon station installed on a US Army M1151 Humvee. (US Army)

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electronics, a built-in processing unit with gyro meter, and a man-machine interface showing to the soldier the shot direction both in azimuth and elevation thanks to green and red diodes. If the soldier moves from its initial position the Pearl allows continuous target tracking until the operator resets the system. Three buttons allow to handle the system: on/off, day/ night and next shot/reset. The under 400-gram Pearl detects supersonic projectiles fired from firearms of 5.45 mm to 20 mm calibre.

According to Metravib shot detection probability is higher than 95%, with localisation errors of ±10° in azimuth and elevation and ±20% in distance, with a response time of less than one second.

Running on two standard AA 1.5 Volts batteries, its low power consumption (less than 2W) ensures an autonomy of over 12 hours.

RS232 or RS485 ports are available for exporting potential target indications into an electronic sight, thus allowing the soldier to maintain his aiming position.

The company has in fact already integrated it with the

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A precursor in sound shotgun detection, 01dB Metravib recently developed a rifle-mounted system that has a weight of less than 40 grams. The detail picture on the right shows well the led system that leads the rifleman towards the shotgun source. (01dB Metravib)

Sagem Sword TI sight. Further integration with target locating systems such as the Sagem Sophie to be used by snipers spotters is envisaged, as well as with lowcost remote control guns.

Metravib is ready to customise its system to fit helmets, shoulders or backpacks, and separate wrist-display for example, and has already demonstrated the Pilar integrated with a helmet display. A first order for 20 Pilars, which is already in production, was placed by Brunei, and considerable further orders are expected in Fall 2013.

As the use of the Pilar may lead to doctrine change, Metravib has developed a “Blue Pearl” featuring a specific software for use in conjunction with blank ammunition during training.

Obviously Metravib still markets its vehicle- and fixed

installation-mounted Pilarw. Compared to the original Pilar deployed in Sarajevo in 1995 the current system is able to accurately identify in real time the source not only of small arms fire but also that of RPGs, mortars and anti-tank missiles. The latest version of the Pilarw Vehicle has a response time of less than two seconds and provides an azimuth accuracy of ±2° when the vehicle is stationary or ±5° on the move. Elevation accuracy stands at ±5° while range precision is between 10 and 20% for aggressive shots.

The Pilarw also provides calibre identification and audio alert. Being designed for vehicle, it can provide grid coordinates of the fire source if it is coupled to an inertial and/or GPS navigation system, and it can obviously be integrated with the remote control weapon, adding a slue-to-cue capability. Two modes are available: Urban Terrain (for aggressive shots only), and Rural The four-microphone Pilar array, a system that is available for both vehicles and infrastructure protection. (01dB Metravib)

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Environment, which takes all types of shots into account. The two-kilo vehicle version array is foldable, but is less than 50cm high when in operation. The Data Interface and Acquisition Module installed in the vehicle weighs 3.6 kg. One of the latest sales successes of the Pilarw was the order by the French Armée de Terre for its latest VAB upgrade known as the TOP, equipped with the Kongsberg Protector M151. Known in France as the Slate (Système de Localisation Acoustique de Tireur Embusqué) it has been integrated with the remote weapon station to provide automatic slewing towards the threat. Eighty such kits have been supplied since February 2012.

The Pilarw Area, for its part, is a most recent version that allows to link up to 20 antennae to a single electronic unit and thereby offers a 1 x 1 km area coverage and an improved accuracy. Sold to Germany and Italy, it is currently deployed in Afghanistan.

Numerous demos have been carried out with the Pilarw Helicopter and orders are expected, especially from Latin America.

Two antenna arrays would be used on light helicopters, and four on heavy types.

Depending on the helicopter-generated noise, which is a factor of aircraft dimensions and flight speed, the system can provide a Avisa developed miniaturised sensors that not only measure sound pressure but also the vector value acoustic particle velocity (Avisa) is working on the integration of its sensors into micro-drones given their reduced dimensions and weight. (Armada/P. Valpolini)

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rough indication of the firing source, front, left, rear, right, or a more refined one providing the “o’clock location”, the range and calibre. Metravib is considering further evolutions, such as vehicle-mounted networked systems, but is looking for a partnership with a major integrator to finalise the project.

I AVISA

Leveraging work in the automotive industry Dutch Microflown Avisa developed novel Acoustic Vector Sensors (AVS) to detect and localise gunshots, artillery, aircraft and vehicles. Not only can the AVS measure the sound pressure (the typical measure provided by microphones), but it also gives the vector value acoustic particle velocity.

The single sensor is based on Mems technology, and measures the velocity of air across two tiny, resistive strips of platinum that are heated to 200°C. Using three orthogonally emplaced sensors in one single point and a sound pressure transducer it reads pressure and vector values in 3D, all in a very compact and light item of say, 5 x 5 x 5 mm and a few grams. Microflown Avisa underlines that its technology provides better accuracy compared to microphonebased systems in terms of azimuth and range, although it does not provide elevation (see table). Tests carried out in the Netherlands and in Germany have shown that an AVSbased system can identify the point of origin of mortar fire with a 2% accuracy in range and less than 0.5° in azimuth. Following a period of intense development, Microflown Avisa has received a first contract for both target practicing and hostile fire localization applications, followed by a second contract for a mobile system and similar purposes, while a third involved a hostile fire localization system for the protection of the Dutch Embassy in Kabul.

Yet another contract concerns the development of an AVS solution to be installed on vehicles. The one million Euro R&D contract signed in early 2013 has a duration of two years. Known as Whelac (wheeled acoustics) it will provide vehicles with all-round 3D acoustic situational awareness, the AVS being able to locate and classify small arms, rocket, artillery, mortar and RPG fire, but also helicopters and ground vehicles. The objective is to maintain full detection capabilities in vehicles driving up to 80 km/h, and deal with the engine noise. As acoustic awareness inside armoured vehicles is much reduced, the Whelac would consistently improve crew

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Avisa exploited its technology to develop a system that allows to precisely pinpoint mortar or artillery shooting grids. The system has been installed at the Dutch Embassy in Kabul. (Armada/P. Valpolini)

safety by providing warning against approaching threats. A networked version to be used, inter alia, in convoys is also being analysed. The reduced size, weight and power consumption of AVS-based gunshot detection systems makes them a premium solution for other systems like light drones.

An application known as “Walking Ears” is

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up and running, and 40 people are currently working within Microflown on innovative programmes, India being a potential first customer for the drone applications.

I SNIPER EGG

Answering the British Ministry of Defence’s ‘Competition of Ideas’ initiative and urgent

operational requirements, Ultra Electronics leveraged its deep expertise in acoustics to develop a rifle-mounted gunshot locator.

Initially known as the RMGL, the Sniper Egg is a all-in-one system capable to detect and localize the source of incoming high-velocity 5.56 to 12.7 mm calibre rounds. This 450gram system can be installed via Picatinny rail on the rifle’s right side and features the “egg” at the front, with its microphone sensors, and a 160x128 pixel display that acts as man-machine interface.

When a shot is fired, the Sniper Egg shows the soldier which was the incoming direction thanks to clock-type indicator and, while the soldier turns towards the threat, a miniaturized three-axis inertial tracking system ensures continuous movement compensation and the clock moves towards 12 o’clock reading. For fine tuning in azimuth and elevation cross-hairs replace the clock on the screen when the weapon is aligned within 30° of the target. Nominal accuracy is ±5° in azimuth and elevation and 15% in range (range is shown on the lower right corner of the screen, while the number of detected events can be seen on the lower left corner).

An aural alarm is available. Detection range is This diagram neatly shows the operating principle of the Sniper Egg. (Ultra Electronics)

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A close variant of the version-mounted PinPoint seen here is used to protect fixed installations. (Cobham)

from 30 to 1,200 metres, Ultra stating a probability of correct detection and localisation of over 90%, with low false alarm rate. Target refresh frequency is 10 Hz for seamless display motion.

The Sniper Egg is waterproof and is powered by two AA batteries providing up to seven hours of autonomy (a battery charge indicator shows on the top-right corner of the screen). A simple menu allows to set system parameters such as display brightness (the display is NVG-compatible), maximum and minimum ranges.

Ultra Electronics is currently working on a Hostile Fire Indication system for helicopters, based on the available technology, however no information on the programme status is available. The company has also received funding for research acoustic low-velocity projectile detection, such as RPGs. I PINPOINT

Cobham of the US, in cooperation with BioMimetic Systems (BMS), developed a new family of acoustic gunshot detection systems known as PinPoint. Two versions

have been produced, one for dismounts and one for vehicles or fixed sites. The former comes in the form of a shoulder-mounted sensor array that provides range, bearing and elevation, data being provided via interface in the form of audio message or visual alert shown on a 45 x 51 mm wrist-watch style

display either as range, bearing and elevation or grid coordinates. The two AA batteries of the 1W system allow for 10 to 12 hours of operation. The shoulder sensor dimensions are 89 x 89 x 26 mm for an overall weight of less than 400 grams.

An acoustics specialist, BMS developed

Ultra Electronics’ Sniper Egg can pick a round at a range of 1,200 metres. (Ultra Electronics)

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In the Cobham PinPoint system the wristwatch-like display shows the direction and distance of the firing source. (Cobham)

display a shot every 30 milliseconds thanks to fast time-domain processing techniques, the system being able to store up to 1,000 shots.

However for practicality the dismount system allows the user to recall the last 15 shots. The PinPoint Vehicle has similar characteristics in terms of reaction time, but its accuracy is higher due to its larger sensors. These come in the form of a low pyramid that contains four microphones (one at each vertex), as well as the processing. The overall sensor has a size of 337 x 356 x 108 mm and a weight of 2.27 kg.

The 3W unit is powered by the vehicle, the accepted voltage being between 8 and 28 Volts. Like the Dismount, it features serial data port, audio, GPS, USB and power interfaces. It uses a standard Windows rugged tablet to display shooter location information and can be networked via Ethernet or radios. It can also store 1,000 shots, although only the last 250 can be recalled inside the vehicle.

Both systems are now available, Cobham having already bagged orders from military and paramilitary customers.

I ASLS

applications that use mixed analog and digital hardware with an asynchronous signalling method known as event based processing that is modelled on neurological function. This provides sensors with broad dynamic range, robust performance, and a high adaptability to environmental conditions. According to Cobham and BMS this yields high

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performances in noisy and reverberant urban environments. One hundred millisecond after detection the gunshot source data are shown on the display, relative position data being updated as the warfighter moves thanks to integrated sensors. No accuracy figures are provided by Cobham.

The PinPoint Dismount can detect and

Rheinmetall Defence Electronics developed the Acoustic Shooter Locating System (ASLS) to increase vehicles’ crews protection.

It consists of a round base-plate containing the energy-efficient signal processing system and the battery and of an “antenna” made of eight special microphones designed for very high sound pressure levels and 360°coverage.

Originally, each microphone was mounted on a vertical spike, but a new arrangement was unveiled at IDEX 2013, with one single vertical mast carrying eight horizontal spikes, the microphones maintaining exactly the same special position. This solution was adopted to allow easier and cheaper production and, for added robustness, a cage now protects the array. Detection range is 20% greater than that of the weapon itself, while static and on-the-move angular accuracies are respectively less than 2° and 5°.

Refresh rate is less than 1.5 seconds and range accuracy typically ± 10%. According to Rheinmetall the false alarm rate is low even when the system is operated in urban or compartmented areas. The antenna has a power consumption of less than 15W, power supply voltage being between 10 and 3 V, while the battery in the base allows for

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One of the intermediate versions of Rheinmetall's ASLS shotgun location system (top), as seen at IDEX 2013. The final version is contained in a case that is similar to that of the SAS, thus the two systems can be stacked on a vehicle. (Armada/P. Valpolini)

vehicle-independent operation, provided a display is added.

The ASLS base also hosts attitude sensors and a GPS receiver to compensate for vehicle movement. The signals obtained from the ASLS can be fed into a dedicated display, into a Battle Management System as well as into a remote-control weapon to automatically slew it onto the threat source, the crew being also alerted by an acoustic alarm. When tested by the German Army the system confirmed its performances, but its height proved to be a problem when used in the presence of a remote-control weapon on a light vehicle.

Almost fully developed, the ASLS could rapidly enter production should a customer materialise. However Rheinmetall is currently

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offering a new system based on the experience so far acquired. The eight microphones hare now packed into a container that has the same shape of the Situational Awareness System (SAS), the optronic system that ensures close range surveillance aimed at armoured vehicles.

The acoustic sensor can thus be installed on top of the optronic one. However the former ensures a 360° surveillance capability, a typical installation is on the front of the vehicle, while the optronic sensor provides 180° vision, thus two modules are needed. According to Rheinmetall experts the new sensor maintains the same accuracy in azimuth as the ASLS, though its reduced height degrades elevation accuracy. The new antenna weighs 4 kg and is 280 mm wide,

260 mm deep and 180 mm high.

A miniaturised version known asAkSL, for Akustusches Schützen-Lokalisationssystem, has also been developed by the company, which has filed a proposal to the Bundeswehr in late April 2013 in reaction to an RfP that also sees the reaction of a number of competing companies. The AkSL is born to be a stand-alone system, but it can easily be integrated into computer-based systems. It consists of an acoustic shoulder sensor pad that carries position and orientation sensors to allow threat location to be maintained even

The ShotPoint is a networked system developed by Software Integrated Systems (Isis) Vanderbilt in cooperation with Databuoy LLC. (Databuoy)

when the soldier moves. Azimuth, elevation and range data are fed into the wristwatchtype display (cable linked following the German requirements). The display also shows the plot and plot orientation, the number of the event, the time of the event and battery status. An aural message – o'clock reference and distance – is also sent to an earplug that fits under hearing protections or directly into active ear protection systems such as the Peltors' used by the KSK, the requirements having been developed together with the German special forces. A wireless link to the wristwatch display via a ZigBee standard link has already been tested in the laboratory. The back of the sensor carries two buttons: the “on” and “off ” one on the right also controls status check, while the left one controls volume and magnetic calibration. A third button, but on the front of the sensor, allows one to repeat the detected events and to choose environmental conditions, namely quiet scenario or urban scenario, algorithms providing a trade-off between false alarm/detection rate and range.

Typically the AkSL provides a ± 5° accuracy in azimuth, ± 10% in range and has a maximum range that is 20% higher than that of the weapon that shoots. According to Rheinmetall, accuracy is lesser than that of the bigger system but is fully compatible with the infantryman role. In its current configuration, sensor, display and cable, the AkSL weighs less than 500 grams and is powered by two CR123 batteries. In late 2012 the AkSL was also successfully tested from helicopters (two sensors one on each side) from hovering to 200 km/h, overflying training areas where specific shooting sessions were being undertaken.

I DATABUOY

In the United States, the Institute for Software Integrated Systems (Isis) Vanderbilt has been worked for years on counter-sniper systems, with the most recent evolutions turning towards networked sensors. The centre has recently teamed with Databuoy LLC to produce and market the ShotPoint, a system made of a series of nodes each featuring four high performance microphones, GPS and IMU location systems, an electronic board with embedded software, a radio and an appropriate battery package.

According to its position relative to the shooter a node can pick up both the muzzle blast and the shockwave, or only the latter.

The nodes form an ad-hoc network and communicate detections across the network

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I COMPARISON TABLE (SOURCE MICROFLOWN AVISA) ACOUSTIC MULTI-MISSION SENSOR

ACOUSTIC MULTI-MISSION SENSOR (NETWORKED)

EXISTING GUNSHOT DETECTION SYSTEMS

Direction Accuracy

+/- 1.5 degrees

+/- 0.2 degrees

+/- 2 degrees

Distance Accuracy

+/- 5% of range (+/- 20m at 400m)

+/- 2% of range (+/- 8m at 400m)

+/- 20% of range (+/- 80m at 400m)

Elevation Accuracy

No elevation

No elevation

+/-5 degrees

Muzzle Blast Detection Range

5-7km

5-7km

1500m

Shockwave Detection Range

500m

500m

50m

to a control node that fuses all the solutions into a single optimal solution. The control node then sends the data to a web host and those are shown on an appropriate display.

Multiple nodes collaborate and fuse detections to more accurately locate the shooter, find the bullet trajectory and estimate calibre. According to Databuoy the ShotPoint average error is less than 3 metres or 1째 in bearing and less than 7 metres in range when nodes are deployed with the recommended spacing of 50 -150 metres

between each other. The detection rate is in excess of 95% while the response time is lower than one second. The currently offered packaging is 170 mm diameter and 120 mm high cylinder, featuring a foldable antenna and hosting the radio, that works in the 2.4 GHz band, and the four 4 D batteries. These represent over one third of the 1.68 kg of the system, and thanks to the low power consumption, 0.5 W, each node has an autonomy of five days. However Databuoy is ready to provide different packagings to

suit requirements. ShotPoint nodes are easily emplaced, as they self-locate and self-form their network. Fusion and control software is Android-compatible and can run on tablet devices. ISIS Vanderbilt and Databuoy started marketing the ShotPoint in early 2013 and are taking part in several bids. The Shotpoint can also be used as a force protection tool on combat outposts and small temporary infrastructures. A potential customer is considering the system for soldier-following ground robots.

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Landing Ships and Helicopter Docks—New Designs for Multiple Duties The recent crisis and humanitarian relief operations around the world highlighted the need for first-rank naval forces to deploy large multipurpose amphibious ships able to support out-of-area operations, with extended accommodation for personnel, materiel, vehicles and medical/primary care capabilities, along with strengthened rotary-wing, watercraft and command, control and communication capabilities.

Luca Peruzzi

T

he recent strategic shift of interests in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East areas has pushed local Governments and shipbuilding industries to look into the development of new projects for multipurpose amphibious vessels, ranging

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Singapore Technologies Marine is proposing on the international market the ‘Endurance 160’ design for an LHD of 14,500t, 163.7 m long and 25.6 m large, which can embark up to 400 troops and vehicles, in addition to an undisclosed number of helicopter which can operate from a five landing spots flight deck. (Luca Peruzzi)

from Landing Platform Dock (LPD) to Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD). The same trend is sweeping across first-rank naval forces in South America and in the Mediterranean basin. However, only a restricted number of shipbuilders around the world, mainly based in Europe and America, but today also present in South and Far East regions, maintain the knowledge and

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platform heritage in this specific vessel sector, pushing other countries and shipyards to request technical support or launching programs with technology transfer in addition to direct contracts.

I THE EUROPEAN SHIPBUILDERS

Built by DCNS and STX France, with DCNS acting as combat system supplier and integrator, the Bâtiment de Projection et Commandement (BPC) platform represents the successful output of French Navy’s joint expeditionary capabilities plans. With a full load displacement of 21,500 tonnes, a length of 199 meters and a beam of 32 metres, together with an all-electric propulsion system based on two podded motors providing a maximum speed of 19 knots, the Mistral class BPC design can transport a battle group including 450 troops and 60 armored vehicles, including 13 Leclerc main battle tanks. BPC designs also offer ample capacity for hospital facilities and extensive joint command operations in modular facilities. Troops, matériel and vehicles can be delivered ashore by up to 16 embarked rotary-wing platforms, including NHIndustries NH90 TTH/NFH and Eurocopter AS532AL/EC725 Cougar medium tactical transports, supported by

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In late 2011, an estimated €1.2 billion contract became effective between DCNS and Russian defence export agency JSC Rosoboronexport, for the supply of two same-type vessels (the type here seen in a mock-up rendering) and associated services including initial logistics, training, and technology transfers. The BPCs will be delivered in 2014 and 2015. (DCNS)

EC665 Tigre HAP/HAD combat helicopters, in addition to four CTM (Chaland de Transport de Matériel) landing craft or two L-CAT/EDA-R (Engin de Débarquement Amphibie-Rapide) high-speed landing craft.

Built by CNIM and delivered in four examples to French Navy, these platforms offer enhanced performance and transport capabilities, being capable to carry 80 tonnes at 20 knots.

Since becoming operational between 2006 and 2012, the Mistral, Tonnerre and Dixmude BPCs demonstrated their capabilities, from the evacuation of international citizens in Lebanon to deployment of troops in Mali, passing through the participation to Libyan operations with an embarked airmobile group including Puma Gazelle and Tiger helicopters, which contributed to the rotary-

wing raids over Libyan territory. According to the latest Defence White Paper, the fourth BPC is cancelled. Dixmude introduced enhancements based on the previous vessels in-service experiences, including better view from the modified island bridge area and the integration of the Thales Senit 9 combat management system with a MRR3D-NG multirole radar, radio and satcom suite, and SIC 21 command support system. A sensor suite upgrade for all French Navy’s amphibious fleet is introducing the Sagem EOMS-NG EO, providing both 360-degree surveillance and weapon system control. Selfprotection is entrusted to MBDA Simbad twin-Mistral missiles launchers and two 20mm guns.

Russia developed a long tradition of amphibious ships construction during the Cold War, but the poor performances demonstrated by its aging fleet during the 2008 Georgian War motivated an intergovernmental agreement in early 2011 with France covering the supply of four Mistral class vessels. This agreement later evolved into an estimated €1.2 billion contract which became effective in late 2011 between DCNS and Russia’s defence export agency JSC Rosoboronexport, for the supply of two same-type vessels and associated

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services including initial logistics, training, and technology transfers. DCNS acts as prime contractor and combat system integrator, while platforms construction is undertaken by subcontractor STX France at its Saint-Nazaire shipyards with the contribution of Russian shipbuilder United Shipbuilding Corporation (OSK).

Admitalteyskie Verfi and Baltiysky Zavod companies subsequently joined in to respectively cover the design engineering of the Russian contribution and the building of the rear hull modules of both vessels, equaling 40% of these hulls. Activities began in August 2012, and first steel cutting for the first-of-class Vladivostok occurred in February 2013 at STX France’s shipyard in Saint-Nazaire. The keel laying ceremony is scheduled for October 2013, while deliveries of the two vessels are planned for 2014 and 2015, providing a huge enhancement to Russian Navy’s capabilities in power projection. No official Russian confirmation was however provided about the construction of the following two ships.

These platforms will differ from French Navy-standard BPCs in having higher hangars for the Kamov Ka-52K Alligator

attack and Ka-29 armed transport helicopters, full-shut well dock door and onboard systems adapted to Russianstandards and cold operational environments, in addition to a modified island and slightly reinforced hull. A Russian combat management system will be installed, together with a communications suite, which reportedly includes both Russian and French equipment based on Thales’ Aquilon fully integrated system. The vessels are to be armed with self-defence weapon systems, including two AK630 30mm gatling guns and two SA-N-10/Gibkha 3M-47 quadlaunchers, according to released images.

A Russian diplomatic representative in France unveiled in 2012 the acquisition plan for L-CAT LCMs, but this has not been confirmed since. Alternatives could involve the smaller Russian project Serna LCU, or a modified Project 21280 Dyugon craft with lowered masts.

I NAVANTIA ENHANCES AUSTRALIAN AMPHIBIOUS CAPABILITIES

With the retirement of the 17,700-tonne Principe de Asturias carrier on February 2013, the Buque de Proyección Estratégica

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(BPE) or strategic projection ship Juan Carlos I will be Spain’s sole aircraft carrier.

Built by Navantia shipbuilding group to lead a multinational task group with a brigadesize lift of amphibious forces and commissioned in service in September 2010, the BPE is a multirole vessel that can accomplish amphibious, disaster relief and aircraft carrier operations thanks to its 12degree ski-jump and aviation facilities for the Boeing AV-8B Harrier II Plus. With a 27,050 tonne displacement, a length and beam of respectively 230.8 and 32 metres, a combined diesel-electric and gas turbine propulsion system with two POD-type propellers offering a maximum speed of 21 knots, the Juan Carlos can transport an amphibious force of 910 troops with 12 main battle tanks, 65 wheeled, 27 amphibious and armoured vehicles. The helicopter fleet includes 18 to 25 machines (NH90 TTH/NFH, Sea King SH-3D, AB-212, CH47 Chinook and soon EC665 Tigre HAD combat helicopters). Landing craft may

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The Mistral and Tonnere BPC platforms sailing alongside. The third-of-class Dixmude differs from main enhancements to the island structure and electronics systems.

These ships have played a key role in the rotary-wing operations in the Libyan crisis.

(Marine Nationale)

include four Navantia-build LCM1E type landing craft or one LCAC. Last February the superstructures of the first of two 27,800-tonne LHD being built by Navantia and BAE Systems Australia Defence, the later acting as prime contractor, were added to the hull at Williamstown, Victoria (Australia), marking the completion of the first Canberra class. Built under the ADAS (Amphibious Deployment and Sustainment) JP2048 phase 4A/B programme assigned in 2007 by the Australian DoD, the contract covers the delivery of two ships based on Spanish BPE project, in addition to the combat direction system integration centre, simulated training and integrated support.

These LHDs differ from the Juan Carlos mainly in terms of equipment suite, a derivative of Saab 9VL Mk3E combat management system, Sagem Vampir-NG EO/IR, Saab Giraffe AMB multifunction radar, L-3 Communications integrated communication systems, Sperry and Kevin Hughes integrated navigation and helicopter control radar suite, a self-defence package based on ITT Exelis ES-3701 ESM, BAE Systems Australia Nulka missile decoys plus Rafael Typhoon 25 mm remote weapon systems. In addition to an air component which can include Eurocopter Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters (ARH), NH90 TTHs, Sikorsky Blackhawks/Seahawks and Boeing CH-47 Chinooks, some 1,050 troops, 110 vehicles and materiel can be delivered with the same Navantia-built LCM1E type landing craft, acquired in 12 examples under a separate contract. The Canberra class LHDs will be delivered in February 2014 and August 2015, providing a quantum leap in amphibious and disaster relief

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operations in the Asia-Pacific region compared to current Australian Defense Forces dedicated capabilities.

I ALGERIA TURNS ON ITALY’S EXPERTISE

Given the experience gained by Italy with the design of three 8,000t San Marco/San Giusto classes LPDs, which entered service between 1987-1994, and with Cavour STOVL aircraft carrier, Algeria passed a €400 million contract to Orizzonte Sistemi Navali (a joint-venture between Fincantieri and Selex ES), for the design and construction of a new Bâtiment de Débarquement et de Soutien Logistique. The contract placed in June 2011 includes personnel training and simulation equipment from the Italian Navy,

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Based on Navantia’s Juan Carlos I design, the two Canberra class LHDs being built by BAE Systems Australia and outfitted with Navantia and other team industries like Saab and L3 Communications will be delivered in February 2014 and August 2015. (BAE Systems)

as well as logistic support supplied from Orizzonte Sistemi Navali.

Slightly longer (142,9 metres) and beamier (21.5 metres) with an increased 8,800-tonne displacement and a diesel-based two-shaft propulsion system providing a 20knot maximum speed, the new project resembles the Fincantieri LPD, but features a ship length strengthened flight deck (except

for the bow area), two helicopters spots, a below-deck aviation hangar, and a bigger island structure. The combat system includes Selex’s ES CMS and MFRA (multifunction function radar active) radar with the vertical launch MBDA Aster 15-based missile, the Selex ES/GEM Elettronica integrated bridge and navigation, Elettronica ESM and Oto Melara decoy launchers, 76/62 mm Super Rapid and 25 mm guns. The BDSL can accommodate around 440 troops and transport three-personnel LCVPs and threevehicle LCMs. Built by Riva Trigoso and Muggiano shipyard near La Spezia, the vessel is planned to be launched in December 2013, delivery is expected in September 2014 for training and platform and systems

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familiarization, while full operational capability is expected in February 2015. In the meantime Algerian navy personnel will be trained by the Italian Navy in Taranto. The LCM craft will be built in Algeria, based on the same Italian Navy LCM standard, with Vittoria shipbuilder providing support.

Fincantieri also received from the Italian Navy a feasibility study contract for a 20,000 tonne LHD project with a length and beam of respectively around 190 and 33 metres, a maximum speed of 20 knots and a capability to transport up to 750 troops with ample of space for wheeled armoured vehicles and cargo. Featuring a Finmeccanicaprovided, but reduced combat management and weapon package, the stern dock is to accommodate up to four LCMs or two LCACs, while the aviation hangar will have space for 6 AW101 helicopters that operate from a six spot-configured flight deck.

Although no funding is available in the Italian navy’s latest aquicistion plan, the new LHD has a foreseen delivery around decade-end.

I TURKISH SHIPBUILDER OUTSIDER

Under a comprehensive multi-year plan to boost industrial and armed forces capabilities,

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Turkish Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM) issued a requirement to be submitted on May 2011 for a logistically selfsustaining amphibious vessel with a battalionsize transported force in the Mediterranean and Black seas, with secondary humanitarian relief role, requesting rotary-wing capabilities and stern dock dimensions, which drove the design towards a more-than 25,000t throughdeck LHD-type. Selection is expected this year, with a contract award unlikely before 2014 beginning.

SEDEF teamed with Spain’s Navantia to bid a variant of Juan Carlos I BPE, while Desan’s design is based on China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) 20000T Landing Patrol Dock (see under). RKM Marine developed its own through-deck multipurpose design inhouse, and presented it at IDEF 2011 exhibition. With a 25,000t fld, a length and beam of respectively 216 and 34 m, a flight deck with four landing spots for heavy helicopters and a well dock capable to accommodate two LCACs or four LCM, the LHD has a propulsion system with four diesel engines providing a maximum speed of 22 knots. The RMK design LHD can

accommodate 1,068 personnel including the landing force, and can carry 90+ vehicles including 13 main battle tanks, around 80 armoured/transport vehicles, 6 Seahawk or 4 AW101 helicopters in the hangar plus smaller ones on the vehicles deck. The combat system of Turkish Havelsan group embraces a self-defence gun suite.

I ASIA-PACIFIC REQUIREMENTS BOOST MARKET

With the recent economic strategic shift towards Asia-Pacific region, the power projection and disaster relief capability requirements of the higher rank navies of the area were significantly boosted.

China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) unveiled for the first time at Defense & Security 2012 exhibition inBangkok the model of an LHD, which was detailed at Abu Dhabi’s IDEX 2013 show, last February. Named the 20000T Landing Patrol Dock, the 20,000 to 22,000tonne, 211-metre long and 32.6-metre wide design is powered by four diesel engines, and has a 7,000 nm range at 16 knots with a 30 day-endurance. Characterized by a well-deck of undisclosed capabilities, a flight deck with

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The Canberra class can accommodate up to 1,050 troops, 110 vehicles, including main battle tanks and other materiel, which can be delivered ashore by helicopters and the Navantia-built LCM1E type landing craft. (BAE Systems)

four helicopter spots and an hangar for four helicopters, the new LHD features a Chinesebased combat system with two FL-3000N missile launchers and two 40 mm guns.

Capacities include up to 1,068 personnel (including 700 troops), over 50 armoured vehicles and eight helicopters. The design is being proposed with local DESAN shipyard for Turkish Navy’s LHD programme.

According to a People’s Liberation Army Aviation Navy admiral during a Chinese TV interview in November 2012, this project looks at the export market, since a national design would be much larger, similar in size to a US LHDs, approaching 40,000 tonne.

Drawing heavily on the Republic of Singapore Navy’s experience with its four 141-meter Endurance-class tank landing ships (LST), Singapore Technologies Marine (ST Marine) unveiled the Endurance 160 design variant of the family in late 2010. With a 14,500-tonne displacement, a length and beam of respectively 163.7 and 25.6 metres, a 146-metre flight deck with five landing spots and a well dock, the vessel resembles a larger Italian Navy San Giorgio-class LPDs. With a 290-man crew and air wing personnel, the Endurance 160 can reach a speed of 22 kn and an endurance of 7,000 nm

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(15 kts), carry up to seven helicopters in the hangar, 400 troops, 27 armoured vehicles and up to four Fast Craft Utility landing vessels in the well-dock.

In the 1998-2003 period, Japan commissioned three Osumi-class LPDs, which were built by Mitsui and Universal shipbuilders. The 14,000-tonne ships resemble Italy’s San Giorgio-class but with a larger flight deck and a stern dock. Officially intended as helicopter platforms, they can each carry 330 troops, 10 main battle tanks or 1,400-tonnes of cargo.

South Korea commissioned the Dokdo in July 2007. Built by Hanjin Heavy Industries under a contract awarded in October 2002, the single 19,000-tonne LPH can lift 720 troops and 10 tanks, operate two LCACs from a stern dock and has a 10 UH-60 helicopter-capable hangar.

In late November 2011, Indian Ministry of Defence announced that “Defence Acquisition Council had accorded acceptance of necessity for induction of four large amphibious ships” to enhance the national armed forces’ amphibious lift capabilities, assistance to civil administration, disaster relief and other contingencies. Since Indian shipyards never developed such vessels, this

tender attracted the interest of international shipbuilding groups, including DCNS with its Mistral class BPC, Fincantieri with its Multifunctional ship, Navantia with the BPE and Hanjin Heavy Industries with Dokdotype design.

Through-deck LHD-type designs of different sizes and displacements attracted the interest of other nations including Malaysia, Philippines and South Africa.

These navies’ requirements can be satisfied by the above-mentioned shipbuilding groups with a tailored family solution.

Fincantieri offers both Multifunctional ship and BDSL-type designs, DCNS sponsors its Mistral 14,000 (BPC 140)-21,000 (BPC 210) family, Navantia pushes the Athlas 13,00026,000t family while German ThyssenKrupp Marine System competes with its 15,000 to 20,000-tonne Multirole Helicopter Dock (MDH) design equipped with a throughflight deck and stern dock. The MHD150 (15,000t) can carry 750 troops, vehicles and cargo, landing crafts or LCAC and a 11NH90 aviation detachment.

Other contenders in this enlarging market are Netherlands Damen shipbuilder with the Enforcer family, which obtained large success with the LPD projects.

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Handheld’s Algiz XKW is one of the lightest rugged laptops on the market, weighing just 1.5 kilograms. The computer is certified to all of the required military standards and it runs the Windows-7 operating system.

(Handheld)

Rugged Good Looks Walk into any electronics emporium, and you will see row upon row of laptop computers, all of them competing to be thinnest and lightest machines that the consumer can buy. These wafer-thin electronic brains, with their minimalist aesthetics, promise to effortlessly run your electronic world.

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Tom Withington

A

ll this graceful slimness is very impressive until the moment one is in an airport security queue and in the feverish rush to ‘place any electronic items’ in the appropriate tray, the laptop slips out of one’s hands and crashes to the floor with pieces of plastic ricocheting around the security area. A moment of accidental clumsiness has suddenly become rather expensive.

For many of us, an airport security queue is perhaps the most demanding environment that our laptops will face. This is not the case for the military. Computers are not an option on today’s battlefield, they are a necessity. Yet designing a computer which can withstand the harsh temperature variations that one may find in deserts or tundra, the unremitting vibration of an armoured vehicle, or a regular covering of water or engine oil is no easy task.

For these reasons the laptop computers used by soldiers must maintain reliability in the most demanding of situations.

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Rugged laptops include several specific design features such as sealed keyboards and casings that can keep out dust and moisture, screens that are readable in direct sunlight and internal components which can withstand harsh changes of temperature and vibration. One United States Military Standard (MIL-STD) is of particular note: MIL-STD-810 relates to the environmental and vibration stresses that such equipment must be able to withstand. Rugged laptops are not used only by the military; other customers include public safety first responders, agricultural users and even travelling salesmen. Given their number of potential customers, both military and civilian, it is little surprise that a wide range of products are on the market.

I PANASONIC

When it comes to rugged laptops, there are few names quite as well known as the Toughbook. Before it graces the battlefield, a Toughbook laptop has already been subjected to what can only be described as an epic process of punishment. According to

Panasonic, Toughbook’s manufacturer, each machine must experience 500 separate checks before they leave the factory. This includes high temperatures, impacts on hard surfaces – 26 in total performed consecutively – and twelve hours of water spray. The company adds that it is the “only major manufacturer that designs, builds and tests its mobile computers in its own factories,” which allows it to control “the quality of Toughbook computers every step of the way.” In terms of fully rugged laptops, Panasonic produces the Toughbook-31.

MIL-STD-810G certified, the Toughbook-31 includes a 13.1” LCD screen, built-in webcam and offers up to 13 hours of battery life. This computer is not only certified to MIL-STD-810G, it also meets the requirements of MIL-STD-461F which covers electromagnetic compatibility and resistance to electromagnetic interference.

Panasonic produces a host of accessories for the Toughbook-31, which enables the customer to use their laptop in a number of locations, and a range of different tasks. For example, the company has several vehicle docks on offer, which have single and dualantenna configurations, allowing the use of the computer inside a vehicle. This is particularly useful for troops wishing to use their laptop to run battle management applications. In addition to these vehicle docks, customers can also obtain both long life and lightweight lithium-ion batteries, two and four megabit memory cards, battery chargers and adapters.

I LENOVO

Sharing a similar level of fame to Japan’s Panasonic, Lenovo’s ruggedized part of its ThinkPad product line promises enviable robustness without a reduction in performance, according to the company.

Leading the pack is its T400 ThinkPad. This computer does not meet the MIL-STD-810F requirements for resistance to rain, although it does have spill-resistant keyboard which offers protection against moisture and against what the company says is one of the leading courses of laptop failure. Moreover, it is highly portable, boasting a weight reduction of up to 40% in weight compared with competing robust Arguably the most famous rugged laptop is Panasonic’s Toughbook series. The company’s Toughbook-31 is the latest in its long-line of rugged laptops which are used by armed forces around the world. (Panasonic)

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Rugged Portable Computers

I GETAC Lenovo has entered the rugged laptop market promising machines which are a match for other competing products on the market, but which are available at less cost. Leading the pack is its T400 machine. (Lenovo)

laptop designs. In fact, the machine tips the scales at 2.13 kilos. The company offers a number of different battery options to equip the T400. This includes a four-cell battery offering 4.3 hours of operation, a six-cell 6.5-hour option, a 9.8-hour nine-cell battery and a nine-cell and bay battery combination

Getac provides a number of rugged laptop products.

Several products fall within its product line including the B300 and X500, along with the X500 Mobile Server. Getac has worked to ensure that its rugged laptops have a lightweight design. (Getac)

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for those users needing 13 hours of operation. Lenovo argue that their machines are competitively priced regarding other commercially-available rugged laptop products, stating that they offer up to 90% of the durability of other competing products, but at a reduced cost.

Featured in Armada’s article examining Rugged Tablets published towards the end of 2012, Taiwan’s Getac is a market leader in the field of rugged laptops. The company’s product line includes the B300 and X500, plus the X500 Mobile Server. Getac describes the B300 as a “hard as nails road warrior” which is certified to MIL-STD-810G. An Intel Core-i7 processor gives the computer an enviable performance, while the battery provides up to 40 hours of operation. The 13.3” screen is readable in direct sunlight and both a smartcard reader and fingerprint scanner are included in the design to enhance security. Customer options available for the B300 include resistance to salt fog and compatibility to night vision devices. All of these features are enclosed in a comparatively light design weighing just 3.5kg.

The B300’s stablemate, the X500, is the “first rugged fully equipped standard defence grade commercially available notebook,” according to its manufacturer. Weighing 5.2 kilos, the computer has a 15.6” screen and is offered with a number of optional accessories including a dual-bay battery charger (this enables two batteries to be charged simultaneously), vehicle or office dock, stylus and a number of battery options. Much as

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CONNECTORS FOR HARSH ENVIRONMENTS

Getac claims the X500 to be the world’s first commercially-available military-grade laptop, it says that its X500 Fully Rugged Mobile Server is the “world’s first server-class fully rugged notebook.” The server has a Intel Core i7-820QM processor and a 15.6” screen. It can operate in temperatures ranging form -20ºC to +45ºC, is housed in a magnesium alloy case giving good resistance to severe vibration and shock.

I AMREL

Amrel of El Monte, California, has a number of rugged laptops for the military customer to choose from including the Rocky RF9 17”, RK9 15.1” and the RT9 13.3”. Like many of the rugged laptops surveyed in this article, the Rocky RF9 17” uses the Windows-7 operating system and is MIL-STD-810G certified. Customers have several options to choose from, including Wireless Local Area Network (LAN) and WideArea Network (WAN) coverage, plus Bluetooth and Global Positioning System (GPS) options – all in a package weighing 5.6 kilos. The RK9 15.1” has many of the specifications of the RF9, although with a smaller screen size of 15.1” compared to the larger 17” of the RF9. Customers requiring an even smaller screen can opt for Amrel’s RT9 13.3” machine.

This smaller screen size affords a weight saving compared to the previous two laptops, with the RT9 tipping the scales at 4.3 kilos.

U.S. Navy photo used with permission without endorsement.

Grid Defence Systems of the United Kingdom offer a range of rugged laptops including the Gridcase-1590 and the Gridcase-1595, the principle difference between these two machines being their screen size. (Grid Defence Systems)

A ratchet screw system enables quick and secure coupling of the connectors.

An innovative solution for harsh environments Very high contact density Ratchet screw coupling mechanism 6 different sizes Lightweight aluminium shell 2 to 114 contacts Optimum space saving Oil and fuel resistant

I MOBILE DEMAND

Although mainly involved in the construction of rugged tablets, Mobile Demand does provide a rugged laptop in the form of the xTablet C1200.

The computer is equipped with a 12.1” screen which is viewable in direct sunlight. A keyboard is included in the design, along with the touch screen in much the same way that several tablet computers in the civilian world now also include a keyboard. Mobile Demand stresses that its design meets MIL-STD-810G specifications and that it can withstand a drop from over four feet, while having a keyboard which can resist liquid spills alongside speakers, ports and switches which are resistant to dust ingress.

Using one battery charge, the xTablet C1200 can operate for around four hours, but a second hot-swappable battery can provide a full eight-hour day.

Of particular interest is the fact that this computer is one of the lightest

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Amrel’s Rocky series of rugged laptops offers three distinct machines which can be outfitted with a number of communications systems providing Wireless Local Area Network and Wide Area Network coverage to name but two. (Amrel)

the computer is equipped with a 5.6 inch screen which is viewable in direct sunlight. The aluminium case is fully sealed and the 1510 is outfitted with the Windows-7 operating system. Up to two gigabits of memory are standard, along with up to eight hours of battery operation. The GRiDCASE 1510 is not the firm’s only rugged handheld computer, it also produces the GRiDCASE 2505, although this product does not have the same clamshell design as the 1510, and is instead configured as a tablet computer. examined in this article: it weighs just 2.5kgs.

Furthermore, operating temperatures of between -20ºC up to +50ºC present no problem.

I GRID DEFENCE SYSTEMS

The leafy English county of Buckinghamshire in the United Kingdom is home to GRiD Defence Systems. Rugged computing is a speciality of the firm which has been in the business of providing such laptops to armed forces around the world for two decades.

GRiD says that its laptops can provide at least five years’ of operation, with support for a minimum of ten years. Two products are offered; chiefly the GRiDCASE 1590 and the GRiDCASE 1595. The GRiDCASE 1590 has a 15-inch, backlit screen and a sealed backlit QWERTY keyboard. Able to operate in temperatures of -20°C up to +50°C, the computer meets all of the required standards for rugged laptop performance. A range of Intel core processors outfit the product, and the company adds that other processors are available on request. A 16 gigabit memory is featured along with a DVD drive, and support for both the Windows and Linux operating systems. Weighing eight kilograms, the 1590 is built from hardwearing aluminium alloy to ensure its strength.

GRiD Defence Systems’ GRiDCASE 1595 has a larger 19-inch screen, compared to the 15-inch screen of the GRiDCASE 1590. Like its sibling, it can house a range of Intel processors, with customers also being able to request specific processors if desired.

The GRiDCASE 1595 shares many of the features of the 1590, including a 16 gigabit

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memory, a DVD drive and support for the Windows and Linux operating systems. Three hours of operation are provided by the computers’ batteries, although the larger screen of the GRiDCASE 1595 does provide a slight weight penalty with this machine tipping the scales at twelve kilograms.

One of GRiD Defence Systems’s rather unique products is its GRiDCASE 1510 Hand Held Laptop. In April this year, the firm qualified this product to withstand immersion in over one metre of water. The laptop itself has a clamshell design and hot-swappable batteries to enable its uninterrupted use.

Despite its strong construction, the 1510 has a lightweight of below one kilogram. A QWERTY keyboard is fitted as standard and

I LOGIC INSTRUMENT

Several of the companies surveyed in this article offer a range of rugged laptops, and Logic Instrument is no exception. The firm has three distinct products, namely the TETRAnote EX13, EX15 and EX17. Meeting the exacting requirements of MIL-STD-810F, the EX13 is also compliant with MIL-STD461E, like several of the other laptops mentioned in this article.

MIL-STD-461 provides a series of standards regarding electromagnetic compatibility for military equipment. Encased in a rugged magnesium body, the TETRAnote EX13 weighs 4.3 kilos and has up to eight gigabytes of storage space. The 13.3” touchscreen is readable in harsh light and Logic Instrument offers the computer with a number of customer options including an internal vehicle adaptor, GPS module and WLAN card. Logic Instrument’s EX15 provides customers with a larger 15” screen and the ability to operate in temperatures of -30ºC. This computer weighs 5.6kg and offers similar memory to the EX13 (see above). Options available include an Intel Core 2 Duo Mobile Dell’s rugged laptops features a number of patented technologies which the company has developed to ensure that its machines have excellent protection against dust and moisture ingress, as well as a screen which is readable in harsh sunlight. (Dell)

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Processor T9400, and an isolated chassis for vehicle installation.

Those users requiring a large screen can opt for the EX17. The Central Processing Unit of this laptop is an Intel Core 2 Duo Mobile P8400, although the company offers the Intel Core 2 Duo Mobile Processor T9400 as an option. Along with several of the optional extras offered on Logic Instrument’s other rugged laptops, the EX17 has an optional MIL-STD-1275 military vehicle power supply certification.

Logic Instrument manufactures a number of rugged laptop products. The FieldBook has a moveable screen and can be used as a keyboard-equipped outdoor tablet PC, effectively providing the user with a mini rugged laptop. (Logic Instrument)

company’s PrimoSeal ingress protection, while protection against harsh temperatures is facilitated with Dell’s QuadCool technology. Dell realises that a number of users will not only wish to operate their computer in the great outdoors, but may also want to use it inside the challenging environment of a vehicle travelling off-road.Withthis in mind, the company provides computer docking equipment, and constant connectivity with wireless and mobile internet services.

I DELL

Dell computers are one of the world’s famous names, and their machines are a staple part of office and home computing around the world. The company’s military laptop line includes its Latitude E6420-XFR machine. Using the Windows-7 operating system, it boasts BallisticArmor protection and, according to the company, has been tested to ‘high defense-grade standards’, and is certified to MIL-STD-810G. The 14inch screen can be used in direct sunshine

I KONTRON

while a number of hot-swappable components guarantee undisturbed use of the computer.

Protection against foreign object damage has also been built into the machine, using the

Like many computing companies, Kontron is headquartered in California. The firm’s rugged laptop product line includes the V100 Fully Rugged Convertible Notebook. The

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NEXT ISSUE OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013: 1 OCTOBER, ADVERTISING: 16 SEPTEMBER

‘brain’ of this machine is a thirdgeneration Intel Core i7/i5 vPro Processor.

Customers get a 10.4” sunlight readable touch screen display plus a number of connections including GPS and a 3.5G WWAN. As with many of the computers surveyed in this article, the V100 runs the Windows-7 operating system. The robust design of the V100 includes a magnesium alloy case which has a vibration and drop-resistant design. Optional night vision compatibility can be requested along with a vehicle adapter, a lightweight battery and a number of power adaptor options. Despite boasting a number of useful design features, the V100 remains a lightweight system imposing a weight penalty of just 2.3kgs.

Kontron’s V100 fully rugged convertible notebook includes the latest processor technology and a sunlight-readable display. Meanwhile the computer’s magnesium case provides it with a robust protection against impacts. (Kontron)

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Ground robots: These radio or cable remotecontrol vehicles are used where it is preferable not to send a human being. They usually send back images of what their day and/or thermal cameras see, but can also provide information on air contamination, carry weapons or bomb disposal equipment. Lately, thanks to sensor miniaturisation and ruggedisation some have become “tossable”, but a new family of carrier or servants is also emerging.

The Osborne-1 was the world’s first fully functioning portable, rather than laptop, computer. It had two 8” floppy disk drives, had no hard disk, and ran on something called CP/M as operating system! The bulky construction of this machine has since given way to much smaller, and higher performance, portable computers: a trend likely to continue in the future. (Armada archives)

I FUTURE CHANGES

It is well over thirty years since the first mass production portable computer, Osborne-1, entered the marketplace and paved the way for the machine that would follow. It may not have exactly been a laptop, weighing 10.7kg, but Osborne-1 ushered in an area of computing that would give rise to the rugged laptops that this article has profiled. Osborne-1’s capabilities were a shadow of those found on the machines discussed above, yet the intervening years have heralded a steady improvement in computing performance.

Today’s rugged laptops are highly capable machines. The coming years are likely to see even greater strides forward vis-à-vis their capabilities. However, in terms of design criteria, as with many subsystems used by the military, the immediate challenges will focus on reducing size, weight and power consumption. Strides are being made in this domain already with some of the laptops which have been discussed in this article boasting significant reductions in weight which put them in a similar category to some of the lightweight civilian laptops available commercially. While nobody would doubt the utility of the rugged laptop weight has, to some extent, remained their Achilles’ Heel.

Packing the same high performance into a lightweight, yet rugged, package is a challenge that rugged laptop designers are no doubt already addressing.

Stabilised sensor turrets: They are the sensors without which no drone would exist.

They also are used on any inhabited or uninhabited ground or sea-going vehicle to provide their operators with a still and smooth pictures of a remote scene when the vehicle they are mounted on is bouncing like a pea on a drum.

Rover systems: Here too, miniaturisation has played wonders, enabling the Rover real-time geo-referenced picture transmission technology to be available to the soldier on foot. A few years ago not only did the display have to be vehiclecarried, but also required a good share of that vehicle's electrical power resources.

Infrared microcameras: New sensor manufacturing techniques have enabled certain types of infrared cameras to function without nitrogen cooling bottles making them useable where space and weight are at a prime.

C-ram: Until recently, rockets, artillery shells and mortar bombs where able to continue their deadly flight undisturbed. No longer so now.

Systems have already proved their worth against mortar shells and rockets, though work is still underway to crack the tougher 155mm shell.

Paris Air Show: The latest technologies and designs unearthed by Armada’s “envoyés très spéciaux” to the World’s oldest air show.

Military Radio Compendium A separate publication distributed with the standard issue of Armada, this third edition of this now popular title will cover all the latest developments in the field of military radios, and will as usual come with the much acclaimed four-page, fully illustrated data fold-out table.

Infantry fighting vehicle and Armoured personnel carrier Compendium As armoured vehicles are now becoming increasingly specialised, Armada has deemed necessary to handle them in separate Compendia since the characteristics of a same base vehicle can vary out of proportions according to its final use, because of its armaments and/or protection levels.