Missile, Artillery, Hypersonic, Ballistics & Soldier Systems

MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

February 7, 2025 by

Sponsored by Galvion

www.galvion.com

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06 Feb 25. L3Harris Dual-Arm Payload Impresses Operators at Kineton. In November, L3Harris demonstrated one such innovation at a demo day hosted by Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), an executive agency sponsored by the U.K. Ministry of Defence (MOD) dedicated to science and technology in defence and security.

L3Harris has been working with Dstl on robotics research projects since 2011. The most recent project involved delivering a robotic dual-arm payload which can be easily integrated onto existing robotic systems. For this project, L3Harris developed a payload integration for the large T7 robot which enables it to use HDT Global’s Adroit® dual-arm manipulator, controlled by L3Harris’ intuitive haptic controller.

The payload provides operators with a high-strength lifting arm and a high-dexterity arm designed to handle complex missions that require a greater range of motion. This could include tackling intricate tasks such as unzipping backpacks or unscrewing the end-caps from pipe bomb improvised explosive devices.

L3Harris showcased this dual-arm system at MOD Kineton during a two-day demo event alongside several other robotic and autonomous explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) capabilities funded by Dstl. The human-like flexibility and dexterity offered by the dual-arm payload ensures threats are dealt with much quicker and more efficiently than with a single arm.

“The demo provided the ideal platform for us to gain some valuable feedback on the dual-arm system from MOD operators who expect to use it during real-life EOD missions,” said Dr. Paul Bosscher, Advanced Concept Engineer at L3Harris. “It also opened up interesting discussions about the potential applications of the capability beyond EOD, with specialists from other fields such as chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosives detection exploring how the capability might benefit their work.”

An additional T7 in the demo was used to display several deployable sensor applications in realistic mission scenarios.

A New Degree of Dexterity

Many EOD mission tasks can be extremely demanding, difficult and time-consuming. With L3Harris’ intuitive haptic controller, operators enjoy a seamless user experience and a wide range of motion from both arms, increasing precision and reducing task completion time. Additionally, the controller is easy to use and learn, so traditional training time and cognitive burden are substantially reduced. In fact, a human factors study conducted with the U.S. Army Research Lab and further experimental data shows the control system reduces operator workload by 20% and task completion time by 20%.

L3Harris’ T7 and T4 robots are trusted by world-leading military forces all over the world, with units deployed in the U.K., U.S. and Australia to support missions on a global scale. Learn more about these robotic capabilities here.

06 Feb 25. Iran claims to have integrated S-300 components with indigenous Bavar-37. The Islamic Republic of Iran Air Defence Force (IRIADF) has successfully integrated its Bavar-373 indigenous long-range air-defence system with its Russian-made S-300, it was claimed on 5 February. In a report on the second phase of an ongoing air-defence exercise, Iranian television news showed the new transporter erector launcher and radar (TELAR) version of the Bavar-373 deployed with the system’s search radar and a launcher from the S-300 system at a location that could be identified as an air-defence base south of Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport. Photographs from the exercise showed one of the two 64N6E2 ‘Big Bird’ battle management radars that Iran acquired with its four S-300PMU2 fire units was also deployed along with an FL-95 communications mast, which is used to link the system’s components with its command post.

“From now, the Bavar-373 will have the missiles and radars of the S-300 as a backup and they will be co-ordinated with the Iranian system’s search radar,” the television reporter said.

The Bavar-373 was shown launching a missile that was reported to be a Sayyad-4B. The reporter said the IRIADF had not revealed the characteristics of the target the missile engaged, but described it as being at a very high altitude and long range. The S-300 TEL was not shown launching a missile. (Source: Janes)

06 Feb 25. Türkiye tests Tayfun ballistic missile, potentially extending its range. Roketsan conducted a test firing of the Tayfun ballistic missile on 3 February. The missile was launched from Rize-Artvin Airport on the Black Sea coast, heading west. While the exact range of the test firing was not disclosed, the Turkish Navy issued a maritime warning for it on 2 February. The designated area, outlined by multiple co-ordinates, was declared dangerous for navigation for a week’s period. Analysis of the restricted zone indicates that the distance between the firing location and the furthest point within the area was approximately 750 km, suggesting that the missile’s range in the test exceeded the 560 km range of the previous test. The Tayfun missile is 6.5 m long, with a 61 cm diameter, and 2,300 kg weight. The weight of its pre-shaped fragmentation warhead has not been disclosed. According to Roketsan, the missile has a circular error probable (CEP) of less than 10 m. It features a go-onto-location-in-space (GOLIS) guidance system, making it suitable for strikes on stationary targets such as command centres, air defence missile systems, and critical military infrastructure. The transporter-erector-launcher (TEL) vehicle carries two missiles. Roketsan released a video on social media on 3 February showing the missile launch and its impact on the target. The footage reveals window-like openings near the missile’s nose cone, leading to speculation that the missile may incorporate celestial navigation for improved accuracy. Roketsan declined to comment on the test when approached by Janes. (Source: Janes)

06 Feb 25. IDF confirms SPYDER air-defence system was rushed into service. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has confirmed that it has operationally deployed the Rafael SPYDER air-defence system during the war with Hamas and Lebanese group Hizbullah since October 2023.

“Prior to the war, the SPYDER system was not integrated due to the prioritisation of other interception means within the constraints of available resources,” the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit told Janes. “It was decided [during the war] to acquire the system in accordance with the urgent operational need, after an operational and professional analysis. The process of its integration was carried out in an orderly manner and with the approval of all relevant authorities.

“The SPYDER system represents a new concept for the Air Defense Wing of the Israeli Air Force,” it added, referring to the IDF branch that operates all its air-defence systems.

Unlike Israel’s existing air-defence systems, the SPYDER is mobile, rather than operated from fixed sites. It can use Python-5, I-Derby, and I-Derby ER missiles, with all three types available with additional boosters for the longer range versions of the system. The IDF did not say which SPYDER version it has acquired or if a dedicated unit has been established to operate it. An industry source told Janes that the SPYDER All-in-One (AiO) version is now in service and has carried out multiple successful interceptions against various classes of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). (Source: Janes)

06 Feb 25. Enhancing Soldier Systems with the MilDef Tactical Android Device. Explore how the MilDef Tactical Android Device (T.A.D.) is advancing dismounted soldier systems with ruggedized design, superior durability, and customizable features.

MilDef looks at the Tactical Android Device (T.A.D.) and how the tech is enhancing dismounted soldier systems with ruggedized design, enhanced durability, and customizable functionality.

The concept of the dismounted soldier (DSS) has undergone significant evolution due to the ever-changing nature of modern warfare. With increasing threats, urban combat scenarios, and the need for real-time communication and information access, the DSS must rely on advanced technology to maintain tactical superiority. However, limitations in power supply, interoperability, cybersecurity, and durability continue to challenge the defense industry in creating effective solutions.

Key Challenges in Dismounted Soldier Systems

One of the primary limitations of DSS lies in tactical deployment—ensuring that military personnel, equipment, and resources function seamlessly in high-stress environments. A soldier’s gear includes communication devices, navigation tools, sensors, and protective equipment. If any of these fail, it can severely impact mobility and operational efficiency.

Moreover, DSS software and communication networks depend on real-time data transmission, making them vulnerable to cyber threats and interception. Another critical issue is technology integration—ensuring compatibility between different systems and avoiding technical failures that could compromise missions.

The Role of End User Devices (EUDs)

A crucial component of DSS is the End User Device (EUD), a mobile system designed to enhance communication, situational awareness, and decision-making. Traditionally, these devices connect to radios and headsets, enabling soldiers to operate on multiple frequencies while staying informed on the battlefield.

Due to its open-source nature, Android has emerged as the preferred operating system for military EUDs. Its flexibility, developer support, and familiarity among users make it an ideal choice. However, while commercial Android-based devices can be ruggedized with protective cases, they still present issues such as limited durability in extreme conditions, short battery life, and compatibility constraints with military systems.

Introducing MilDef’s Tactical Android Device (T.A.D.)

MilDef, a leader in ruggedized defense electronics, has addressed these challenges with the development of the Tactical Android Device (T.A.D.). Unlike commercially available devices modified for military use, the MilDef T.A.D. is a fully rugged EUD built specifically for defense applications. This purpose-driven design ensures superior durability, reliability, and seamless integration with military networks.

Key Features of the MilDef T.A.D.

The MilDef T.A.D. stands out due to its robust capabilities designed to enhance operational effectiveness. Some of its core features include:

Swappable Battery: Extended mission time without the downtime of recharging.
Night Vision Mode: Optimized for low-light operations, providing enhanced visibility.
Five-Year Product Lifecycle: Long-term compatibility and support for military applications.
Customizable Functionality: Unlike standard consumer devices, the MilDef T.A.D. allows users to tailor software and features to their specific needs.

Empowering Communication and Situational Awareness

At the heart of the dismounted soldier system, the MilDef T.A.D. ensures soldiers maintain real-time connectivity and situational awareness. Its ability to seamlessly integrate with headsets and radio systems enables effective battlefield communication. Unlike existing solutions that come with pre-installed, rigid software, the MilDef T.A.D. offers unparalleled customization options, empowering users to configure the device based on mission requirements.

A Tailored Ecosystem for Defense Operations

Beyond the T.A.D., MilDef is committed to building an ecosystem of complementary accessories and integrations to enhance DSS capabilities. From chest mounts to specialized cables and additional hardware, MilDef is developing a comprehensive solution that is scalable and adaptable to future military challenges. (Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)

06 Feb 25. INVISIO Enhances Soldier System Integration with Acquisition of Software-Defined Hubs. INVISIO has acquired Ultra PCS’s UltraLYNX™ product line of software-defined hubs for $3.5m, enhancing soldier-worn device integration and improving interoperability INVISIO has purchased UK company Ultra PCS’s UltraLYNX™ product line, enabling a seamless integration of devices from different manufacturers, creating an ecosystem within the modern soldier system. As part of the USD 3.5m transaction, several Ultra PCS employees will join INVISIO. UltraLYNX is specifically designed to interface with all soldier-worn peripherals. It covers the conventional soldier setup (radio, GPS, EUD, battery) and integrates with a wide range of additional devices including cameras, physiological monitoring, GPS denied tracking, blast detection, gunshot detection and environmental sensors that all work together to contribute to understanding the context of the wearer sit-rep. UltraLYNX software-defined hubs create an ecosystem that seamlessly integrates devices from various suppliers to deliver audio, data connectivity, and power. This reduces cognitive and physical burden on users by enabling interoperability between devices including those that were not originally designed to work together. This acquisition is expected to accelerate INVISIO’s ability to deliver fully integrated tactical body-worn systems with the capability to handle audio, data and power, along with advanced computing power. It will also support INVISIO in providing a seamless and robust plug-and-play communications system that adheres to the evolving needs of modern military and defense operations. The UltraLYNX product will be incorporated into the INVISIO ecosystem and will facilitate the development of future innovative products. Modern soldier systems rely on diverse devices—radios, sights, navigation tools, and sensors—sourced from multiple suppliers with differing standards. It is necessary for these devices to share data, power and audio within a unified ecosystem. UltraLYNX simplifies integration by harmonizing protocols, managing power, and enabling seamless interoperability between devices with different standards. The result being that soldiers can focus on their missions without being burdened by incompatible equipment and complex setup requirements.

Lars Højgård Hansen, INVISIO CEO, commented, “This acquisition aligns with our strategic vision to expand and enhance our product offerings and provide our customers with cutting-edge solutions that improve operational efficiency and effectiveness. The UltraLYNX product line will add significant capabilities to our already market leading soldier systems. (Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)

06 Feb 25. UVision Air Ltd. a global pioneer in loitering munition systems, has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Omnisys, a provider of BRO a combat-proven mission planning & optimization systems. This technological collaboration integrates Omnisys’ BRO advanced mission planning & optimization capabilities with UVision’s HERO loitering munition family to deliver a comprehensive battlefield management system. The Omnisys BRO (Battle Resource Optimization) systems are combat proven and cover a broad range of operational domains. BRO by Omnisys ensure Mission Success by Optimized decision making and management by mission commanders and planners, enabling maximum effectiveness in operational missions by optimizing system deployment and operation, adapted to the relevant enemy in the respective theatre and terrain. During the mission planning and executions phases, the BRO calculates optimized routes and transfers data to UVision’s command and control system which enables the management of multiple HERO loitering munitions simultaneously. The optimization of the mission planning elements achieved through this collaboration allows precise allocation of munitions to targets, optimizing parameters like target type, location, flight altitudes and optimized trajectories, warhead type, other effectors and payloads, weather conditions, mapping data, and more.

The integration of Omnisys’ system with UVision’s HERO loitering munitions enhances overall mission effectiveness. It improves operational precision by reducing the human error factor, boosts success rates through optimized target engagement, and strengthens force protection by enabling remote mission management. Such combined solution reduces cognitive burden on operators, allowing them to concentrate on strategic decisions and maximize combat performance and productivity.

Dr. Ran Gozali, CEO of UVision Air, stated: “This partnership with Omnisys introduces a new paradigm in mission execution. By autonomously managing multiple loitering munitions and their engagement, operators can prioritize strategic decisions, enhancing both lethality and operational efficiency.”

Ofer Yarden, CEO of Omnisys, added: “The integration of our battle-proven mission optimization technologies with UVision’s cutting-edge loitering munitions provides commanders with the tools to make optimal decisions. This collaboration enhances mission success rates and strengthens battlefield effectiveness. Our combined solution offers unprecedented levels of automation and precision in loitering munition deployment, marking a significant advancement in defense technology

04 Feb 25. Redefining Precision of Strike: ASELSAN’s Cutting-Edge Guidance Technologies. In an era where precision, adaptability, and reliability define battlefield superiority, ASELSAN stands at the forefront of innovation in defense technologies. As Türkiye’s leading defense company, ASELSAN continues to push the boundaries of modern warfare by developing advanced guidance kits that transform conventional munitions into high-precision strike weapons. These systems integrate cutting-edge navigation, targeting, and aerodynamic technologies to enhance the effectiveness of air-to-ground operations, providing military forces with the ability to neutralize threats easily.

Advanced Accuracy with High-Tech Navigation Systems

ASELSAN’s guidance kits, including GÖZDE, and HGK-84 (Precision Guidance Kit), ensure pinpoint accuracy even in GPS-denied environments. While HGK-84 converts 2,000 lb. bombs into high-precision weapons with a range of 28 kilometers, LGK upgrades general-purpose bombs across various weight classes from 250 lb. to 2,000 lb. into smart munitions, delivering unmatched accuracy against strategic enemy targets. Whether deployed against stationary infrastructure or mobile threats, ASELSAN’s guidance technologies ensure optimal strike precision and user-friendly technologies across all weather conditions and battlefield scenarios.

Cutting-Edge Dynamic Target Engagement and Extended Range

In high-intensity combat zones, where targets are constantly on the move, ASELSAN’s optional Laser Seeker Head (LAB) technology, featured in GÖZDE and LGK, provides a critical advantage. By enabling real-time target designation and mid-flight re-targeting, LAB-equipped munitions enhance flexibility in mission execution. This feature is particularly valuable in suppressing enemy movements, neutralizing high-value mobile threats, and executing close air support operations with accuracy. Compatible with platforms such as F-16 and F-4, GÖZDE and HGK-84 combine flexibility with precision to adapt to dynamic operational needs.

As today’s modern warfare requires not only precision but also efficiency, ASELSAN’s guidance technologies empower air forces with the capability to engage multiple targets within a single sortie. ASELSAN’s GPS/INS guided munition TOLUN is engineered to maximize the operational range of air-launched munitions, with capabilities extending up to 102 kilometers. This extended reach ensures that strike aircraft and UAVs can engage enemy positions from safer distances, reducing exposure to hostile air defenses.

Multi-Target Engagement for Enhanced Combat Efficiency

TOLUN’s advanced targeting algorithms and precision strike coordination enable aircraft to strike up to eight separate targets simultaneously. This capability enhances operational tempo, allowing for faster mission execution and increased battlefield impact with fewer sorties.

With these capabilities TOLUN takes precision-strike technology to new heights with its extended range of up to 102 kilometers and CEP of less than 10 meters. Compatible with advanced aerial platforms like the F-16 Block 40, BAYRAKTAR’s AKINCI UAV and TUSAŞ’s ANKA-III UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle), TOLUN offers operational flexibility with multi-target engagement capability, enabling forces to strike up to eight separate targets in a single sortie. Proven successful in trials with advanced aerial platforms, TOLUN combines exceptional accuracy with operational flexibility, making it ideal for high-stakes missions.

Building on the success of TOLUN, ASELSAN has introduced TOLUN IIR, an advanced variant equipped with an Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker for superior targeting accuracy. The addition of IIR technology allows TOLUN IIR to conduct precision strikes with exceptional accuracy, identifying and engaging targets even in low visibility or adverse weather conditions. This enhancement ensures operational effectiveness in complex environments where conventional guidance systems may struggle.

TOLUN IIR represents ASELSAN’s commitment to enhancing situational awareness and increasing strike precision. Its IIR seeker enables target differentiation with exceptional clarity, making it highly effective for missions requiring a heightened level of accuracy and discrimination. With a two-way data-link, man-in-the-loop control, and multiple weapon sensor fusion capabilities, TOLUN IIR provides unmatched operational flexibility. Compatible with advanced aerial platforms like the BAYRAKTAR’s AKINCI UAV, it extends the effectiveness of tactical missions by enabling strikes on moving targets and offering day/night, all-weather operation. Proven successful in trials, TOLUN and TOLUN IIR set new standards in precision-strike technology, ensuring greater confidence and dominance in high-stakes missions.

Shaping the Future of Modern Warfare

ASELSAN’s commitment to innovation and technological excellence is redefining the standards of precision-guided weapons. By integrating state-of-the-art navigation, laser-seeking, and multi-target engagement capabilities, ASELSAN provides a game-changing advantage to military forces worldwide. From strategic infrastructure strikes to fast-paced combat scenarios, GÖZDE, LGK, HGK-84, TOLUN and TOLUN IIR systems represent the future of modern defense technology, solidifying ASELSAN’s position as a global pioneer in precision-strike solutions.

As Türkiye strengthens its defense capabilities, ASELSAN continues to drive the future of warfare with cutting-edge innovations that empower military forces to operate with unmatched precision, efficiency, and strategic superiority. (Source: ArabianBusiness.com)

05 Feb 25. Rheinmetall hands over verification model of Skyranger 30 to the Bundeswehr. As scheduled, Rheinmetall delivered the first Boxer Skyranger 30 cannon-based air defence vehicle to the Bundeswehr at the end of January 2025. This system is the so-called verification model, which will be used for the Bundeswehr’s required approval. After the user has been instructed in how to operate the vehicle, the admission trial will begin in spring 2025. Serial delivery will mainly take place in 2027 and early 2028. At the end of February 2024, the Bundeswehr commissioned Rheinmetall to develop and deliver one verification model and 18 series production vehicles of the Skyranger 30 cannon-based air defence tank on the Boxer vehicle. The Skyranger 30 air defence system closes the current critical capability gap in mobile air defence. The system offers an optimal combination of mobility, protection, flexibility and precision to meet the growing requirements of challenging threat scenarios at nearer and very close ranges. As a hybrid solution, its turret combines the powerful 30mmx173 KCE revolver canon, ground-to-air guided missiles and the necessary sensors on a single platform. In Germany, the Skyranger 30 will initially be equipped with the Stinger anti-aircraft weapon; later it ought to be converted to a newly developed special drone defence missile. The elaborate design of the various weapons, high dynamics and a large elevation range, as well as the latest sensors, enable autonomous as well as networked operations. The AHEAD-ammunition with a programmable airburst position makes the system particularly suitable for encountering drones. The compact turret is integrated on the 8×8 tactical Boxer vehicle. Skyranger 30 is part of the European Sky Shield initiative. Additional NATO and EU member states want to join the procurement or have already initiated it. In December 2023, Hungary had contracted with Rheinmetall to carry out the conceptual development of the Skyranger 30 turret for the future air defence variant of the Lynx KF41 tracked vehicle. In the meantime, Austria and Denmark have also ordered the Skyranger 30 on different vehicle platforms. Other EU and NATO states have likewise expressed interest. End of January 2025, the Dutch Ministry of Defence announced that the Netherlands will also procure 22 Skyranger 30 systems. The contract is ought to be finalized before the end of 2025.

04 Feb 25. Estonia receives first CAESAR 6×6 SPHs. The Estonian Defence Forces (EDF) has received its first batch of CAESAR Mk I 6×6 155 mm self-propelled howitzers (SPHs), the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI) announced in a press release on 30 January. The SPHs will be assigned to the newly established 3rd self-propelled artillery battalion under the command of the Estonian division.

Welcoming the arrival of the SPHs, Ramil Lipp, ECDI’s strategic category manager for Armaments, said, “We signed the contract last June, and it took just half a year for the first CAESAR howitzers to arrive in Estonia. Considering the reliability and effectiveness of this weapon in various conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, it can be said that Estonia has acquired the best possible solution. This indirect fire weapon allows units to relocate quickly over a distance of 600 km on a single refuelling, and its standard calibre supports compatibility with various NATO munitions.”

Lieutenant Colonel Rauno Viitmann, the EDF’s CAESAR procurement project officer, added, “The CAESARs increase firepower and reaction speed of the Estonian division, enabling support for units across the country in various situations when needed.” He said the SPH would be operated by both conscripts and reservists, with conscript training beginning in the coming weeks, followed by reservist training exercises planned for the third quarter of 2025.

Estonia signed a contract at Eurosatory 2024 with the Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA), the French defence procurement agency, and KNDS for 12 CAESAR SPHs, with an option for more in the future, as well as a framework agreement to join a joint European procurement of the systems. (Source: Janes)

04 Feb 25. New robots lead the way in bomb disposal innovation. Cutting-edge trial featured robotic canines defusing bombs. This new technology is set to reduce risk to personnel working on bomb disposals. Robot dogs that can defuse explosives are set to revolutionise bomb disposal operations and significantly reduce the risk to military personnel, whether operating in the UK or overseas. A new live trial led by Ministry of Defence scientists has seen advanced robotic systems, including robot dogs, successfully detecting, and defusing bomb threats.

The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) trials took place over four days and included:

Remote classification and identification of threats using sensors on robots;
Defusing of bombs from a robot dog;
Drones with AI autonomous threat and people detection;
And robots conducting tasks such as opening doors and climbing stairs.

The trial supports key components of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, safeguarding national security whilst rapidly advancing new technologies – showing defence as an engine for growth.

Dstl worked alongside British and international industry, L3Harris, Marlborough Communications Ltd and AeroVironment (Tomahawk Robotics) on the trials which showed that they could enhance Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) capability by:

Reducing the need to put a bomb disposal operator in harm’s way by increasing the number of tasks that robots can perform remotely;
Improving the effectiveness of robots, reducing the burden to the operator, allowing delicate and precision movements to be completed reliably;
Using drones equipped with AI to identify threats and monitor safety cordons, increasing the pace of operations and reducing disruption to the public.

The trials involved a series of scenarios, where the robot was asked to perform various tasks including opening and closing doors autonomously, navigating stairs, inspecting improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and consequently firing disruptors at the IEDs to render them safe.

These innovations will transform EOD operations by minimising the human exposure to danger, improving operational efficiency and maintaining public safety.

Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle, said: “This advanced technology demonstrates our commitment to protecting the military personnel who keep our nation safe, at home and abroad. By working with industry and combining cutting-edge robotics with existing expertise, we’re ensuring our bomb disposal teams have the best possible tools to carry out their vital work safely and effectively. These advancements help the government deliver our Plan for Change and ensure defence is an engine for growth – protecting our national security while supporting rapidly evolving technologies. Bomb disposal operators praised the technology demonstrated in the trial and provided beneficial feedback to shape the next phase of Dstl investment in robotics for the bomb disposal community. Dstl will use this feedback to continue to develop and enhance technology that provides increased security for the nation.”

Chief Science and Technology Officer, Dstl, Prof Andy Bell, said: “This is a great example of how Defence can achieve an advantage through the exploitation of technology, fusing together military and commercial systems to keep our people and country safe from deadly threats.Working in partnership with industry and academia, Dstl is delivering mission success through science and technology advantage.” (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

04 Feb 25. L3Harris Technology Enhances US Torpedo Capability. Improved Post-Launch Communications System (IPLCS) cleared sub-system testing to move closer to providing innovative tool to submarine fleets. As great power competition increases and the U.S. Navy prioritizes strengthening undersea dominance, improved weapon reliability and lethality is more important than ever. L3Harris is answering the call with innovation to make the next generation of heavyweight torpedoes more effective for U.S. and allied naval forces. The Improved Post-Launch Communications System (IPLCS) is a fiber-optic cable tether that connects the torpedo to its origin submarine, providing increased bandwidth for real-time data, a greater communications range along with better strength and reliability. The system is designed for the newest iteration of the MK-48 (Mod 8) torpedo, which will be the Navy’s next generation submarine-launched weapon system with upgrades beginning in 2029.

“It’s imperative we provide the U.S. Navy with technology to improve adversary targeting,” said Jahmar Ignacio, Vice President and General Manager, L3Harris Strategic Missions. “This L3Harris advanced technology is key to ensuring warfighters have the right data at the right time for increased advantages over adversaries in the undersea domain.”

IPLCS cleared Design Verification Testing and is now proving L3Harris’ ability to manufacture the technology. Upon successful testing, L3Harris will work with Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) and Program Executive Office Undersea Warfare Systems (PEO UWS) toward system production.

Countering threats in the Indo-Pacific region is a key priority for the United States. During a visit to Guam and Hawaii earlier this year, Under Secretary of the Navy Erik Raven said U.S. prosperity is built upon free and open oceans and that the U.S. will defend American, ally and partner interests in the region.

“We are steadfast in our commitment to the security, stability and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region,” Raven said.

The U.S. Navy Science and Technology Strategy identifies Strengthening Maritime Technological Dominance as one of its three main priorities, with Undersea Systems as a focus. The L3Harris IPLCS system ties into that priority directly, giving warfighters enhanced capabilities to confront potential adversaries.

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) is a partner on the IPLCS program and works within the Undersea Weapons Joint Program Office (PMS 404), with the tether system set to be incorporated into RAN Colins Class submarines in addition to U.S. Navy subs.

The IPLCS system replaces legacy copper wire tethers and offers dramatically better communication ranges and thousands of times more bandwidth. Warfighters on the submarine are able to guide the torpedo, working along with automated systems built into the weapon.

The fiber-optic cable is smaller than the copper wire it is replacing, but stronger, allowing for more reliable performance in contested environments. IPLCS began as a DARPA-funded program in partnership with the University of Central Florida pursuing ultra small, very strong highly integrated optical fiber cable. (Source: ASD Network)

03 Feb 25. Germany signs deal with Patria for CAVS mortar system development. The CAVS programme, launched by Finland and Latvia in 2020, was joined by Sweden in 2022. Germany has reached an agreement with Patria to initiate a work package focused on the development and qualification of mortar systems for the Bundeswehr, within the framework of the Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) programme. This project, which is part of the broader CAVS research and development accord that Germany joined in 2024, entails the construction of two specific variants: the CAVS NEMO and a variant equipped with a mortar command and control system. These will be integrated with German-specific mission systems and undergo a qualification process to ensure they meet the requirements set by the German customer. The work package is valued at approximately €50m ($51.29m), though further specifics regarding its scope remain confidential. The CAVS programme, launched by Finland and Latvia in 2020, was joined by Sweden in 2022, and Germany became the fourth participant in April 2023. The completion of this work package under the CAVS programme presents potential advantages for other countries currently or prospectively involved in the initiative, as they could leverage the outcomes of this development. The CAVS NEMO variant is a hybrid design that merges Patria’s 6×6 vehicle platform with its NEMO 120mm turreted mortar system. Both components are recognised as leading products in their respective categories within the defence market. The majority of the vehicle supply is handled through the local industry capabilities of the member nations, with each new country strengthening the security of supply for the entire collaboration. The Patria 6×6 vehicle, primarily designed for troop transportation, can also be adapted for various combat support roles, including as a Company Command vehicle, Medical Evacuation vehicle, and Heavy APC.

Patria Global executive vice-president Jukka Holkeri said: “Patria is very pleased to see Germany signing the first national CAVS variants development and qualification agreement. The 120mm turreted mortar variant adds totally new performance to the international CAVS programme, and we trust that other participants of the programme will be very interested in this advanced capability. The development and qualification of these new CAVS variants will be done in close cooperation with the German industry, and the future serial production will be realised with our earlier published industrial partners KNDS, FFG and JWT.”

To date, Patria has secured orders for over 800 of its 6×6 vehicles and has already delivered more than 200 units. (Source: naval-technology.com)

03 Feb 25. India conducts VSHORADS flight trials. India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has conducted additional flight trials of its very-short-range air-defence system (VSHORADS) to finalise deployment configuration of the weapon. The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) said three VSHORADS flight trials were conducted on 1 February from a ground-based portable launcher at DRDO’s Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, on India’s east coast. The MoD also indicated that the trials were used to validate planned deployments of the system. “The flight tests were carried out in final deployment configuration wherein two field operators carried out weapon readiness, target acquisition, and missile firing [tests],” it said. Previous VSHORADS trials carried out by DRDO in 2022 and 2024 likely used test configurations.

“During all the three flight tests, the missiles intercepted and completely destroyed the targets, having reduced thermal signature mimicking low-flying drones [unmanned aerial vehicles] at different flying conditions,” the MoD added.

According to the MoD, VSHORADS’ performance was validated through flight data captured by tracking instruments, including electro-optical systems, radar, and telemetry stations based at the ITR.

“[The tracking instruments] confirmed the pinpoint accuracy and established the unique capability of [the] VSHORADS missile system in neutralising drones along with other classes of aerial threats,” the MoD said, commenting on VSHORADS’ performance in the tests.

In January 2023 India’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved in principle the procurement of VSHORADS missiles for the Indian Army. The Indian Army also issued a tender to procure an unknown number of VSHORADSs in June 2024. The tender sought to procure two variations of the VSHORAD – a manportable version and a vehicle-mounted version. (Source: Janes)

31 Jan 25. Diehl launches IRIS-T Block II development and production. Diehl Defence has launched development and production of the IRIS-T Block II air-to-air missile, announcing on 30 January a contract with the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw). Signed in December 2024, the contract will see IRIS-T lead country Germany joined by international partners Italy, Spain, and Sweden. Original consortium partners Greece and Norway were not included in this latest announcement.

“The BAAINBw signed the contract on behalf of this consortium. The IRIS-T Block II contract marks an important milestone for the future of IRIS-T,” Diehl Defence said.

IRIS-T is an acronym that translates as InfraRed Imaging System – Tail/Thrust Vector Controlled. Diehl Defence did not disclose any details pertaining to the IRIS-T Block II, but as noted in Janes Weapons: Air Launched, the baseline IRIST-T that it will build on is a short‐range all‐aspect IR homing missile that has both air-to-air and, when given an updated software insertion, air-to-surface capabilities.

Featuring both lock‐on‐before‐launch (LOBL) and lock‐on‐after‐launch (LOAL) capabilities, the IRIS-T is fitted with a high-explosive (HE) fragmentation warhead, which is detonated by a radar‐assisted proximity fuze. Its maximum range is 25 km. (Source: Janes)

31 Jan 25. Australia receives first Huntsman vehicles from South Korea. South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace has delivered an initial batch of its Huntsman family of vehicles to Australia, the Department of Defence (DoD) in Canberra told Janes on 31 January. A DoD spokesperson said two AS9 155 mm/52 calibre tracked self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) and one AS10 armoured ammunition resupply vehicle (AARV) were delivered to Hanwha Aerospace’s local subsidiary, Hanwha Defence Australia (HDA), in late 2024. The vehicles, collectively known as Huntsman, were delivered under a contract HDA secured with the DoD in 2021 for a total of 30 AS9s and 15 AS10s for the Australian Army under Land 8116 Phase 1 – otherwise known as the Protected Mobile Fires programme. Under this AUD1bn (USD622m) deal, Hanwha Aerospace was contracted to build the initial two AS9s and first AS10 at its facility in Changwon, South Korea, with the remainder to be constructed at a new HDA facility in Australia. The DoD spokesperson did not provide a schedule for the delivery of the vehicles to the Australian Army, but said evaluations of the platforms would be conducted before supply. “Hanwha Defence Australia is currently undertaking comprehensive testing of the three vehicles,” the spokesperson said. The Huntsman vehicles have been procured for the Australian Army to bolster its protected mobile fires capability and provide mobility, lethality, and protection support to armoured vehicles and other ground forces. The vehicles are also intended as a counter-battery capability to engage, neutralise, and destroy an adversary’s artillery systems before they can be employed against Australian or allied land forces. (Source: Janes)

31 Jan 25. The U.S. Navy awarded Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) a $383m cost-plus-incentive-fee and cost-plus-fixed-fee modification to the existing Lockheed Martin contract for development of the next generation of the Trident II Strategic Weapons System (SWS) D5 missile to continue the nation’s sea-based strategic deterrence. Under this contract modification, Lockheed Martin will design the upgraded missile, called the Trident II D5 Life Extension 2 (D5LE2). The integrated, modernized missile will be carried aboard COLUMBIA-class ballistic missile submarines to ensure the strategic weapon system remains credible through 2084. The D5 missile, built and upgraded by Lockheed Martin for the Navy, is the most advanced ballistic missile in the world and is currently aboard U.S. OHIO-class and U.K. VANGUARD-class submarines. This year, Lockheed Martin will mark 70 years of support to the Navy developing and sustaining the missiles that are the backbone for the nation’s sea-based deterrence through the company’s Fleet Ballistic Missiles (FBM) program. Lockheed Martin’s FBM program is critical to preserving American and allied security with a focus on innovation through advanced digital technology, modern facilities, and a culture of excellence. Lockheed Martin is breaking ground on an approximately 225,000 square foot facility in Titusville, Florida to produce components for the D5LE2 submarine-launched ballistic missile.

04 Feb 25. US Navy awards contracts to enhance LCS MCM capabilities.The first contract with Bollinger Shipyards is for an AMO to enhance the MCM USV based on operational test results. LCS Mission Modules programme manager Matthew Lehmann said: “With the first deliveries of the MCM MP underway and deployments closely following, it is critical to ensure we have the contracts in place to procure and deliver the quantity of mission packages to the fleet required in today’s changing world.

“These contract awards ensure our littoral combat ships will continue to receive the modernised MCM equipment needed to conduct their missions, allowing our sailors to operate safely and stay outside of the minefield.”

These efforts are part of the PEO USC’s portfolio managed by NAVSEA’s LCS Mission Modules programme office. It is responsible for delivering a range of systems including unmanned maritime systems, mine warfare systems, and small surface combatants. (Source: naval-technology.com)

04 Feb 25. Royal Marines test new L403A1 ‘KS-1’ battle rifle. The KS-1 was selected in 2023 as part of a wider move to replace the existing SA80A-series rifles currently in UK military service. UK Royal Marines have tested the new L403A1 ‘KS-1’ battle rifle during cold weather exercises in Norway, providing one of the UK Armed Forces’ leading combat elements a step change in lethal capability. The UK military has been seeking to introduce new personal weapons systems for use in special operations units as well as regular forces. In mid-2021, a contract notice was issued detailing the planned procurement and support of an Armalite-style rifle platform Alternative Individual Weapon (AIW) system. In a 3 February 2025 social media post, the UK’s Defence Equipment & Support agency, the procurement arm of the country’s Ministry of Defence, said the “modern and high-precision” L403A1 ‘KS-1’ AIW rifles would enhance military capability, particularly in “high-threat environments”.

An earlier 31 January release from the Royal Navy, the parent service of the Royal Marines, said new equipment – such as the L403 rifle and snowmobiles – was being rolled out amid “intensive, extreme, cold weather training” in Norway. Nearly 2,000 personnel from across the UK Commando Force were reported to be operating in Norway’s mountainous terrain during Winter Deployment 25. The exercises took place near Camp Viking in Skjold, northern Norway, some 74 miles south of Tromsø.

The 2023 selection of the L403A1 ‘KS-1’ battle rifle as the AIW was conducted under Project Hunter, intended to deliver a new battle rifle for the UK military’s Special Operations Brigade. The programme was thought likely to influence the wider replacement of the SA80A2/A3 bullpup rifles under Project Grayburn. First entering service in the 1980s, the SA80 bullpup assault rifle has gone through a series of upgrades and iterations, with the SA80A2 being created in 2002 following a mid-life upgrade, followed by the SA80A3 in the mid-to-late-2010s. The latest variant, known as the L85A3, has been gradually rolled out across the British Army. It has been used by UK forces in recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as more distant conflicts such as the first Gulf War and the unrest in Bosnia as part of UN peacekeeping operations. The SA80 suffered through significant jamming and operational failures when employed in adverse environmental conditions, prior to the introduction of the more recent variants. Manufactured by Heckler and Koch, the SA80 fires the NATO standard 5.56×44 ammunition. In January 2022 a Parliamentary written response revealed that the UK had a total inventory of 134,912 SA80A2 variants and 17,900 SA80A3 variants, held across defence. (Source: naval-technology.com)

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About Galvion:

Galvion designs, develops, and delivers mission critical head, face, and torso protective solutions as well as intelligent power and data management systems for the world’s most demanding military and tactical teams. Founded in 2002 as Revision Military, a foundational belief in calculated investment and capability expansion led to a strategic refocus, resulting in the divestiture of the protective eyewear business, along with the Revision name, in 2019. Rebranded as Galvion, the company’s products and technology continue to evolve beyond purely passive protection, focusing instead on active systems that enhance performance and survivability, with an eye to the ever-changing demands of the modern battlefield. Through advanced design, keen end-user insight and intelligent integration, Galvion engineers uniquely customized solutions that go beyond what was once thought possible.

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MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

January 31, 2025 by

Sponsored by Galvion

www.galvion.com

29 Jan 25. Cummings Aerospace releases its Hellhound for Army competition. Huntsville, Alabama-based Cummings Aerospace is readying its Hellhound for submission to the U.S. Army’s loitering munition competition set to kick off later this year, having recently wrapped up flight tests of its turbo-jet powered, 3D-printed kamikaze drone.

The company took its S3 version of its man-portable loitering munition out to the Pendleton Unmanned Aircraft Systems test range in Oregon this month and was able to verify and validate the system’s performance against the Army’s preliminary Low Altitude Stalking and Striking Ordnance, or LASSO, program requirements, CEO Sheila Cummings told Defense News in a Tuesday interview.

“We were able to successfully demonstrate that we could meet the range requirements for LASSO and then ultimately trying to make sure that we’re exercising the max flight speed and so we achieved that,” Cummings said. “We were also able to successfully integrate an inert warhead and conduct flights with that as well as test other subsystem functionality that are critical to overall system verification and validation.”

Hellhound is unique among loitering munitions because it uses turbojet propulsion which provides increased speed, according to Cummings.

“It also gives you the ability to throttle the engine so it gives you a lot more flexibility in your mission in order to maximize either range or flight time,” Cummings said.

In the tests, the loitering munition, weighing in at less than 25 pounds, flew faster than 350 miles per hour at half throttle while passing distances of 20 kilometers using just 50% of its fuel, according to the company. It performed in wind, snow and very low temperatures.

Hellhound is Cummings Aerospace’s first major end-to-end weapon system it has developed. Cummings is a Native American woman-owned small business founded in 2009 as an aerospace engineering outfit with expertise in design, development, production and sustainment of capabilities like missiles, radars and command-and-control system technologies.

Loitering munitions are proving their might on the battlefield, proliferating in places like Ukraine as troops there continue to fight off the Russian invasion, and the Army is developing a structured way to continue to procure a stream of highly capable loitering munitions in its inventory. In particular, the Army plans to enable its Infantry Brigade Combat Teams with the capability to provide the same lethality in this space as Armored BCTs.

In early January, the Army posted a notice on the federal business opportunities website Sam.gov stating it had released controlled but unclassified information outlining the objectives of the LASSO program.

While the objectives are not public, the notice emphasized the need for industry offerings to be compliant with the service’s modular and open systems architecture.

“The compliance with modular open systems architecture standards is another key element of our design,” Cummings said. “That’s actually been a key enabler for us to rapidly conduct design iterations throughout its development, so we’re [using] very rapid design cycles using the 3D printing technology, we can produce new vehicles very quickly and take them out for test[ing].”

Cummings Aerospace plans to submit its offering to the Army’s competition to procure loitering munitions when the service is expected to release a formal request for proposals in the May or June timeframe.

How quickly the Army plans to move forward with the program and how many vendors it might select for demonstration or evaluation has yet to be announced publicly, but the pool would likely include loitering munitions makers like Aerovironment — the manufacturer of the Switchblade deployed in Ukraine — and Anduril, which recently went under contract with the Marine Corps to supply it with its Bolt loitering munition.

Cummings also has its eye on other programs where Hellhound might fit to include the Army’s short-range Launched Effects program. The company is working on concepts where the launch canister can be integrated onto a ground vehicle or from an air platform, Cummings said.

“We’re poised with an incredible solution,” she said, “and the corporate facilities infrastructure to support the follow-on production program.”

Cummings Aerospace releases its Hellhound for Army competition

Cummings Aerospace has conducted flight tests of its Hellhound loitering munition that validates the technology is ready to submit to an Army competition this year. (Rendering courtesy of Cummings Aerospace)

Huntsville, Alabama-based Cummings Aerospace is readying its Hellhound for submission to the U.S. Army’s loitering munition competition set to kick off later this year, having recently wrapped up flight tests of its turbo-jet powered, 3D-printed kamikaze drone.

Hellhound is unique among loitering munitions because it uses turbojet propulsion which provides increased speed, according to Cummings.

“It also gives you the ability to throttle the engine so it gives you a lot more flexibility in your mission in order to maximize either range or flight time,” Cummings said.

While the objectives are not public, the notice emphasized the need for industry offerings to be compliant with the service’s modular and open systems architecture.

“We’re poised with an incredible solution,” she said, “and the corporate facilities infrastructure to support the follow-on production program.” (Source: Google/Defense News)

30 Jan 25. Donald Trump this week ordered work on the most ambitious missile shield in US history, one designed to destroy hypersonic missiles and prevent nuclear annihilation. The US president dubbed it the “Iron Dome for America” — a nod to Israel’s renowned air defence system. But the vision for Trump’s next-generation system, including space-based lasers, is actually much closer to Ronald Reagan’s so-called Star Wars programme, launched in 1983 at the height of the cold war. Developing a kind of Star Wars 2.0 would cost hundreds of bns of dollars. The technological challenges it faces are immense. Nuclear experts also warned the initiative could provoke China and Russia to take countermeasures that would nullify its effects. It is partly why the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists moved its “Doomsday clock” one second closer to midnight this week. What is Trump’s plan for a missile shield? The US president’s executive order, signed on Monday, gives defence secretary Pete Hegseth 60 days to flesh out a plan to defend the US against ballistic, hypersonic and advanced cruise missile attack. Trump’s proposed system, outlined in the memo, is comprehensive, extraordinarily expensive and a different order of technical sophistication from Israel’s Iron Dome. That system defends only small areas from short-range, low-flying and non-nuclear missiles. Trump’s initiative seeks to intercept intercontinental ballistic missiles that travel 100 times further and seven times faster. The US is also almost 450 times bigger than Israel. Instead, Trump’s order demands the deployment of “space-based interceptors” — a web of satellites, some equipped with lasers. It then calls for the development of another layer of lower-altitude interceptors if the lasers fail. In addition, it demands “capabilities to defeat missile attacks prior to launch” — in other words, a system that destroys the archer, not just the arrow. Analysts say that a leakproof, space-based missile shield is all but impossible. “There is no magical security blanket,” said Tom Karako, a leading missile expert at the CSIS think-tank in Washington. (Source: FT.com)

27 Jan 25. Supernova wins contract to 3D print military-grade energetics. Supernova Industries Corp has won a contract to 3D print military-grade energetic materials in a pilot program with an eye on bolstering the U.S. defense industrial base.

“Our technology has the potential to overcome the design constraints of conventional manufacturing methods to produce the next generation of military-grade energetic material components, including solid rocket motors (SRMs), explosives and pyrotechnics,” Roger Antunez, the company’s founder and CEO, said in a statement.

Supernova Industries launched Supernova Defense & Space in Austin, Texas, in 2024 to focus on 3D printing military-grade energetic materials.

Military-grade energetic materials “are necessary for the proper functioning of defense systems,” the statement notes. “However, traditional processing techniques limit their potential. Supernova’s new VLM processing techniques will provide key innovations crucial to enhance safety, ensure material consistency, reduce waste stream and unlock new performance capabilities, particularly in applications such as solid rocket motors, bombs, countermeasure flares or bullet grains.”

Supernova has already printed simulant energetic materials, according to the statement, and is now developing the printing of energetic formulas “which will represent a major breakthrough in the field of additive manufacturing,” the company said.

The company has named its proprietary technology “Viscous Lithography Manufacturing,” or VLM, which is an additive manufacturing process using “a transparent film to transfer high viscosity materials onto a build platform, where they are cured by light to form printed parts,” the company explains.

Typical processes need low viscosity resins, the company says, but VLM can use materials of “unlimited viscosity, which enable new formulations such as the high solid-loading used in energetic materials.”

The $2 m subcontract was distributed by the American Center for Manufacturing & Innovation’s Critical Chemicals Pilot Program. The program is funded through a multi-award contract vehicle from the Pentagon’s Information Analysis Center supporting the Defense Department’s Industrial Base Policy Manufacturing Capability Expansions and Investment Prioritization (MCEIP) Pathfinders portfolio, according to a company statement.

The ability to 3D print energetic materials “will enable the production of critical components for weapon systems that are essential for national security,” said Victor Boelscher, federal programs head at ACMI Federal.

“ACMI’s Critical Chemicals Pilot Program is designed to support Defense Industrial Base (DIB) resilience by taking commercial solutions and rapidly adapting them for DOD use,” he added.

The Defense Department has been focused on ensuring the nation has enough explosive materials to keep up with a massive boost in munitions production to replenish stock sent in support of Ukraine – and to ensure the U.S. has what it needs to fight the next wars.

The U.S. Army, for instance, is drastically ramping up its 155mm munitions production to 100,000 per month by the end of 2025. But the biggest concern for the service’s acquisition chief has been securing enough explosives to fill them.

“You have to produce enough explosives – either IMX-104 or TNT – to fill that many shells that fast, and that production capacity does not exist in the United States by itself,” Doug Bush said early in 2024. Bush served as the Army’s acquisition chief under former President Joe Biden. “We’re having to go overseas to allies. Luckily, we have many [that are] highly capable.”

To avoid having to rely on overseas sources, the Army has also turned its attention to rebuilding its own explosives supply in the U.S. — recently awarding a contract to REPKON USA-Defense LLC to design and build a new production facility for explosive material in Graham, Kentucky.

(Source: Defense News)

28 Jan 25. Philippine soldiers to train on US Typhon missile system. Philippine soldiers will train on the U.S. military’s intermediate range missile system during unilateral army drills next month as part of preparations for bigger exercises with U.S. counterparts, a military official said on Tuesday. The Typhon missile system was deployed by U.S. forces to the Philippines in April last year as part of their Balikatan or “shoulder-to-shoulder” military exercises, and has since stayed in the country, angering China which has repeatedly called for its withdrawal. Reuters reported last week the launchers were redeployed to a new location in the Philippines, which officials decline to disclose. Tomahawk cruise missiles used in the launchers are capable of hitting targets in both China and Russia from the Philippines. The SM-6 missiles it also carries can strike air or sea targets more than 200 km (165 miles) away. A platoon of about 20 soldiers from the army artillery regiment will train with the U.S. Army Pacific’s First Multi-Domain Task Force in mid-February, Philippine army spokesperson Louie Dema-ala said. (Source: Reuters)

27 Jan 25. Elbit to develop extended-range Iron Sting, showcases Sling mortar system. Elbit Systems’ Iron Sting guided mortar munition is to see development to increase its range, Janes learnt at Defence iQ’s International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) 2025 conference held under the Chatham House Rule in Farnborough from 21 to 23 January. The ambition is to extend the range of the Iron Sting mortar round up to 15 km from the currently listed 12 km, among other significant planned capabilities.

The 120 mm Iron Sting round uses either GPS or a semi-active laser homing (SALH) seeker for guidance. It can be fired from a range of mortar systems, including those made by Elbit such as Sling, or other systems made by third parties. Janes learnt that the Iron Sting munition is undergoing development in response to feedback from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Aside from the aim of increasing its range by 3 km, Janes learnt that Elbit is seeking a spiral development model for the mortar round, commencing in 2025. This includes the ambition to incorporate a rocket motor in the mortar round to provide an even greater range, and the addition of a shaped charge warhead for defeating static and moving armoured vehicles. (Source: Janes)

27 Jan 25. FFG showcases tracked Skyranger concept for the Netherlands. German manufacturer Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft (FFG) showcased a scale model of an air-defence variant of its Armoured Combat Support Vehicle (ACSV) at Defence iQ’s International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) 2025 conference held in Farnborough from 21 to 23 January.

FFG told Janes that the concept is intended for the Netherlands, although further details could not be provided. The Netherlands has already invested into the ACSV platform with a contract of NOK12 bn (USD1.06 bn) signed with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace for the National Manoeuvre Air Defence Systems (NOMADS). NOMADS is the integration of surveillance radar and a range of missile effectors onto FFG’s ACSV platform.

One significant ACSV design feature is a modularity concept. FFG material on the ACSV details the use of a flatbed on the rear of the vehicle equipped with standard ISO container fittings for both 10 ft and 6.5 ft containers. The same design element can allow FFG-produced modules to be fitted using the same instruments, allowing for the ACSV to change roles with the swapping of mission modules. (Source: Janes)

27 Jan 25. Aselsan proposes new anti-air truck concept, Gürz development ongoing. Aselsan has showcased a scale model of a new air-defence system based on the 35 mm Göker multimission weapon system at Defence iQ’s International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) 2025 conference held in Farnborough from 21 to 23 January.

Onur Can Usanmaz, international business development expert engineer at Aselsan, told Janes the mobile concept uses the Göker turret, which was test-fired in December 2022. The turret utilises an electro-optical sight to track targets, which can range from conventional fixed-wing and rotary aircraft to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or ground targets. It is operated remotely, allowing internal space to be reserved for ammunition plus mechanical and electrical subsystems, and has a maximum elevation/depression of +85°/-15°.

The concept, if developed, could be offered as a lighter alternative to the Gürz, which utilises missiles as well as the same 35 mm cannon, while the Gürz can detect targets independently with its own radar suite. Usanmaz said that the Gürz is still in development and its final armament package is not yet finalised, despite being shown at the World Defense Show (WDS) 2024 in Saudi Arabia with the Hisar-A+, Göksur, and Sungur missiles.

Aselsan outlined its openness to co-operation with platform manufacturers, offering to integrate its turret systems with various chassis. The concept displayed for the truck-based Göker does not show any specific truck type but used a 2×4 or 4×4 setup for the model, a smaller footprint than the 8×8 Gürz. As a concept, these attributes are subject to changes in the future. (Source: Janes)

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About Galvion:

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MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

January 24, 2025 by

Sponsored by Galvion

www.galvion.com

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20 Jan 25. Galvion unveils two additions to their innovative Batlskin® head systems portfolio. Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, is excited to officially preview two additions to their head systems portfolio at SHOT Show 2025. The additions include the introduction of the commercial Batlskin Hellbender™ TE (Tactical Edition) helmet, as well as the new Batlskin Caiman® SAR (Search and Rescue) helmet. The new helmets, alongside Galvion’s wider range of head system and power and data solutions, are being exhibited at booth 32003 at SHOT Show 2025, taking place in Las Vegas, 21-24 January 2025.

Batlskin Hellbender™ is the commercial name for Galvion’s successful PDxT™ helmet platform. In its military PDxT guise, the helmet system has been fielded across multiple international programs to meet a variety of requirements, and is being assessed by many more, including the United States Marine Corps (USMC). The proprietary geometry features an ACH-front with smooth ear transition and a ridged back, offering structural rigidity, increased rear ballistic protection and improved impact protection. The new Batlskin Hellbender™ TE helmet features hybridized layer construction with Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) ballistic core and is available in hi-cut or a unique mid/full cut that provides the ideal balance between full coverage and easy communications integration. Configurable to meet a variety of mission needs with a suite of modular accessories, and compatible with our best-in-class APEX™ liner system, the Hellbender TE can be tailored for military and law enforcement applications and will be available for purchase in mid-2025.

Additionally, Galvion is unveiling the Batlskin Caiman® SAR, a new Search and Rescue helmet that expands its flagship Caiman suite of head systems. The ultra lightweight high-impact polymer helmet features Galvion’s new 3-hole shroud and its best-in-class APEX™ liner system. Like Galvion’s other Caiman helmets, the SAR comes in five (5) sizes, ensuring users are wearing the lightest, most comfortable, and most stable helmet possible. The new Caiman SAR will be available for order in late 2025 in both vented and ventless options, across a variety of colors, including red, yellow, orange.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion, said: “We are excited to unveil these new head systems to our First Responder network of users. We have over 100,000 of our PDxT head systems in use globally, and each program fielded brings new feedback, customizations and insights that result in a better product for end-users. The time was right to add this thoughtfully designed platform to our commercial range, and we expect to expand the Batlskin Hellbender suite of products over the coming years to serve a variety of operator needs.” He added: “The development of the Caiman SAR stems directly from operator feedback and introduces our new Galvion 3-hole shroud to the market. The global adoption of the Caiman platform is spreading, and the SAR helmet offers a new range of specialist operators the opportunity to experience the unrivalled comfort and performance of this mission-proven platform.”

24 Jan 25. Indonesia and India will discuss boosting defence ties, including a potential deal to sell Russian-Indian supersonic cruise missiles to Jakarta, during the Indonesian president’s visit to New Delhi this week, according to people familiar with the discussions. Indonesia has been in protracted talks with BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between India and Russia, to procure a shore-based version of the mid-range missiles and a version that can be mounted on warships. BrahMos told Reuters in 2023 that it was in advanced discussions with Jakarta on a deal worth $200m to $350m . Two people familiar with the matter said a deal has not yet been finalised and talks are continuing. President Prabowo Subianto, who arrived in New Delhi on Thursday and will attend Republic Day celebrations on Sunday, said ahead of the trip that his visit would focus on strengthening ties in security, maritime, and digital technology sectors. (Source: Google/Reuters)

23 Jan 25. German plan for 160 Boxer-based artillery reveals UK’s RCH 155 order. Germany and the UK are co-developing the RCH 155 artillery, which is based on the Boxer vehicle, with a combined order of up to 400 units. As part of a build up of long-range fires capabilities the German Bundeswehr is seeking to expand its current four-unit structure up to a nine-strong force, newly revealed to comprise 160 mobile 155mm artillery, 110 tracked PzH 2000 155mm howitzers, and around 100 multiple launch rocket systems. Key to this is the long-range fires, with the stated preference for a Boxer-based solution for the mobile artillery requirement virtually confirming the RCH 155 system. In 2024, Germany and the UK signed an agreement to co-develop the RCH 155 mobile artillery, which integrates a 155mm artillery module onto the Boxer chassis. Boxer is widely operated by the German military, and the UK is also beginning to integrate the platform into the British Army, with the first UK-built unit on display at the IAV event. In practice, the RCH 155 is already far along its development path, with the UK likely looking to add specific command and control systems, as well as a significant financial contribution. Ukraine recently received its first RCH 155 artillery system, the only other customer for the platform, out of a planned 54-unit buy. The disclosure of Bundeswehr plans also provides details as to the number of RCH 155 the British Army could be looking for, following the UK-German agreement specifically stating a joint procurement of up to 400 units. This means a UK buy is likely to be for around 240 units of the RCH 155 artillery. Earlier analysis by Army Technology indicated that any UK acquisition could be for around 200 units of the RCH 155 artillery system. Detailing the intention to acquire the RCH 155 platform in April 2024, senior UK officials from the then Conservative government subsequently said that the joint UK-Germany programme was “potentially worth upwards of £3bn” and marked “a step change towards a deeper industrial and wider defence relationship between the UK and Germany”. (Source: army-technology.com)

23 Jan 25. DRDO conducts Scramjet Engine Ground Test. Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), a Hyderabad-based laboratory of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has taken the initiative in developing a long-duration Supersonic Combustion Ramjet or Scramjet powered Hypersonic technology. DRDL recently developed these technologies and demonstrated a cutting-edge Active Cooled Scramjet Combustor ground test for 120 seconds for the first time in India. The successful ground test marks a crucial milestone in developing next-generation hypersonic missiles. Hypersonic missiles are a class of advanced weaponry that travel at speeds greater than Mach 5 i.e., five times the speed of sound or more than 5,400 km/hr. These advanced weapons have the potential to bypass existing Air Defence Systems and deliver rapid and high-impact strikes. Several nations including USA, Russia, India and China are actively pursuing Hypersonic technology. The key to hypersonic vehicles is Scramjets, which are air breathing engines capable of sustaining combustion at supersonic speeds without using any moving parts. The ground test of scramjet combustor showcased several notable achievements, demonstrating its potential for operational use in Hypersonic vehicles, like successful ignition and stable combustion. Ignition in a scramjet engine is like ‘keeping a candle lit in a hurricane’. Scramjet combustor incorporates an innovative flame stabilisation technique that holds continuous flame inside the combustor with air speed in excess of 1.5 km/s. Many novel and promising ignition & flame holding techniques were studied through many ground tests in arriving at Scramjet Engine configuration. Advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation tools were used for their evaluation & performance prediction. The indigenous development of endothermic scramjet fuel, the first time in India, jointly by DRDL and Industry is central to this breakthrough. The fuel offers dual benefits of significant cooling improvement and ease of ignition. The team developed a special manufacturing process to achieve stringent fuel requirements of DRDL at Industrial scale. Another key achievement is the development of state-of-art Thermal Barrier Coating (TBC) which is designed to withstand extreme temperatures encountered during hypersonic flight. A new advanced ceramic TBC having high thermal resistance & capable of operating beyond melting point of steel has been jointly developed by DRDL and Department of Science & Technology (DST) Laboratory. The coating is applied inside the Scramjet engine using special deposition methods that enhance their performance and longevity. With demonstrated capabilities in stable combustion, enhanced performance and advanced thermal management, this breakthrough sets the stage for next generation Hypersonic missiles.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has complimented DRDO and the Industry for the successful Scramjet Engine Ground Test. “The achievement marks a crucial milestone in the development of next-generation hypersonic missiles,” he said.

Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat congratulated DRDL team and industry for demonstrating capabilities in stable combustion, enhanced performance, and advanced thermal management test. (Source: ASD Network)

21 Jan 25. Gentex Corporation Introduces 4 New Products at SHOT Show 2025. Gentex Corporation, a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, emergency responders, and industrial personnel, announced the launch of several new products. These include the Ops-Core® Mk2 Ballistic Eyewear, Ops-Core RAILINK® power and data system in black, new high-visibility color options for the Ops-Core FAST® Bump helmet, and the Gentex® LX9™ Liner System.

“We’re proud to bring these advancements to market, reflecting our expertise and commitment to supporting those who rely on our products in the field.”

Introducing the Ops-Core Mk2 Ballistic Eyewear

The Ops-Core Mk2 sets a new standard for high performance optics. Designed for elite defense and law enforcement, it features a robust aluminum frame, integrates seamlessly with helmets and headsets, and features an interchangeable lens system. Specialized lenses—LEP Eclipse and Eclipse NIR—provide adaptability for mission specific needs while clear, tint and high contrast options are also available.

Launch of Ops-Core RAILINK in Black

RAILINK, the only production, US DOD fielded power and data system, is now available in black, designed to meet the needs of elite law enforcement. The system’s streamlined versatility is supported by cutting edge accessories from SureFire, Princeton Tec, and Core Survival with many more under development. Available Q1 2025, more information can be found here.

Two New Color Options for Ops-Core FAST Bump Search and Rescue

Ops-Core is expanding its FAST Bump helmet line with high-visibility options—orange and red—for search and rescue operations. These high-visibility colors offer maximum visibility for search and rescue missions without sacrificing weight or the proven reliability and performance of the FAST Bump helmet.

Introducing the Gentex LX9 Liner System

Gentex’s LX9 Liner System is a lightweight, modular solution for the most common ground combat helmets. It delivers enhanced comfort, breathability, and military specification impact protection while allowing quick, one size fits all installation and best in class communication systems compatibility.

“These product launches highlight our ability to design innovative solutions while staying closely connected to the needs of our end users,” said Rafe Bennett, Vice President of Product Management at Gentex Corporation. “We’re proud to bring these advancements to market, reflecting our expertise and commitment to supporting those who rely on our products in the field.” (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

21 Jan 25. Avon Protection introduced the newest addition to its portfolio of market-leading personal protective equipment, the MITR-M1 Half Mask, for Special Operations, military and first responder personnel operating in low- to mid-level threat environments. MITR-M1 is now available for pre-order. MITR-M1 has been designed to fill a critical capability gap between lower protection/single-use masks and traditional full-face respirators. With a lightweight (0.55lbs/250g) and low-profile design, MITR-M1 can be carried in cargo pockets or gear pouches. It gives operators a low burden, ever-ready solution that can be quickly donned in tactical and fast-evolving situations where respiratory threats may be present.

22 Jan 25. Australia boosts investment in air defence capabilities. The Australian government is providing a financial boost to two local companies to support the rapid development of technology to degrade integrated air and missile defence systems (IAMD) of potential adversaries. The Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator’s (ASCA) Mission 1 has now moved to delivery phase which will see two local companies, based in Adelaide and Brisbane, continue to develop their IAMD technology to give the Australian Defence Force (ADF) a capability edge. The ability to degrade IAMD systems of potential adversaries at long ranges is a capability priority for the ADF in line with the National Defence Strategy.

The next phase of ASCA Mission 1 – named Black Thorn – is also a pivotal milestone for ASCA. After 18 months of learning, ASCA is refining its operating model and delivering a new, agile approach to rapidly deliver the next generation of technology for Defence. This initial investment of $61.5m underscores the government’s commitment to keeping Australians safe but also ensures a future made in Australia by igniting innovation and supporting high-skilled, local jobs.

The awarding of these contracts followed an open approach to market which resulted in funding of nine companies to undertake a co-design effort. ASCA has now entered 12-month contracts with two of the companies to further develop and demonstrate the capability.

Due to security sensitivities, the identity of the companies and details about the technologies will not be publicly disclosed at this stage.

ASCA was established to accelerate delivery of capabilities to the ADF including by supporting and investing in emerging and disruptive technologies and nurturing innovations that address priority capability needs.

Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy said: “This investment demonstrates the Albanese Government’s commitment to supporting and accelerating the development of innovative technologies that meet the ADF’s capability priorities. We are proud to work with innovative Australian companies that play a critical role in developing technology that can give the ADF a capability edge over a much bigger and more powerful adversary. With this announcement today, the Albanese Government is not only backing local innovation but also supporting local jobs and building Australia’s Future.” (Source: Google/ADPR)

22 Jan 25. South Korea formally starts LAMD development. South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has announced the official start of its programme to develop its Low Altitude Missile Defence (LAMD) system to defend the country from North Korean artillery attack. DAPA said on 20 January that it held a meeting to formally start LAMD development, with the work to be undertaken by its subsidiary – the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) – in partnership with local firms LIG Nex1, Hanwha Aerospace, and Hanwha Systems. DAPA said the development programme will receive funding worth KRW479.8 bn (USD331 m ) through 2028, but did not elaborate. ADD and LIG Nex1 started initial development of LAMD in early 2022. One year later DAPA announced it had finalised the development of core LAMD technologies and in 2024 DAPA revealed an accelerated timeline to conclude the LAMD development programme by 2028. LAMD is envisaged as a system to engage with multiple artillery targets. It is expected to be capable of intercepting targets at an altitude of 5 km and has a forecast range of 15 km. The LAMD missile is 165 mm in diameter and features an active radar seeker for terminal guidance. An LAMD battery consists of a radar, an engagement control centre, a launcher, and an interceptor missile. Neither DAPA, LIG Nex1, or Hanwha had responded to Janes at the time of publication. (Source: Janes)

20 Jan 25. Dyneema®, owned by Avient Corporation (NYSE: AVNT), an innovator of materials solutions, unveils its most advanced ballistic materials to date with the launch of Dyneema® HB330 and Dyneema® HB332. Engineered with third-generation Dyneema® fiber technology, these groundbreaking unidirectional (UD) materials set a new standard for ballistic performance and weight reduction, enhancing protection in hard armor applications such as inserts, helmets, and vehicle armor.

Following the successful launch of Dyneema® SB301 in 2023, the first soft ballistic material made with third-generation Dyneema® fiber, the introduction of Dyneema® HB330 and Dyneema® HB332 hard ballistic materials provides a comprehensive solution for advanced personal protection.

When combined into a complete body armor system, which typically pairs a soft armor vest with hard inserts for protection against handgun and rifle threats, third-generation Dyneema® materials enable a high-performance system 45% lighter than a system made from first-generation Dyneema® solutions – further lightening the load on law enforcement and military personnel while simultaneously maintaining the highest levels of ballistic protection and comfort.

“The new products in our third-generation fiber portfolio represent our biggest advancement in personal protection in the last decade,” says Marcelo van de Kamp, Global Business Director for Dyneema®, Avient. “The ultra-light weight of Dyneema® UD has long enabled ballistic solutions that support user comfort in high-pressure situations. With our latest soft and hard ballistic products designed to work together in a single body armor system, we’re enabling further improvements in agility and survivability for officers and operators in demanding environments.”

Dyneema® HB330 and Dyneema® HB332 offer a balanced approach on mechanical stiffness, temperature stability, and superior V50 performance – allowing body armor manufacturers to develop the lightest weight armor in the industry.

As the only manufacturer of ballistic materials to make both its fiber and UD material in the United States of America, the Dyneema® brand is trusted by elite state and federal forces and fully compliant with the Berry Amendment. Dyneema® also provides the same level of consistency, quality, and traceability for European customers through its manufacturing facility in Heerlen, The Netherlands.

Like other Dyneema® UD material, Dyneema® HB330 and Dyneema® HB332 are made without intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) for personal protective solutions that can deliver unrivaled protection.

17 Jan 25. Iran displays another new SHORAD system. A new short-range air defence (SHORAD) system called the Tondar was unveiled during an exercise held by the Iranian Air Defence Force on 13 January. Photographs showed the system has four missile canisters fitted to a swivel launcher mounted on the back of an Aras 4×4 pick-up. A missile seen in a canister had a silver nose cone, which is usually associated with an imaging infrared guidance (IIR) system. The photographs did not show the target tracking sensor that is likely mounted on the launcher between the missile cannisters, although an antenna could be seen protruding from that area, possibly for a datalink to steer a missile towards the target until its IIR seeker is close enough to lock on. The missile canister used with the Tondar may have been seen before on an unidentified SHORAD system that a social media photograph showed was deployed in Tehran for the funeral of assassinated Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on 1 August 2024, although the launcher was different. No performance figures for the Tondar were released, although Iranian media reported that a Shahid Jalilvand radar detected targets for Tondar and Majid SHORAD systems during the exercise. Also mounted on an Aras vehicle, the Shahid Jalilvand was unveiled in September 2023. Stated to have a range of 15 km, the Majid was unveiled in 2021 and has a rotating electro-optical system for detecting and tracking targets. It has been shown mounted on an Aras and on what appeared to be a flatbed Iveco Daily 4×4 van. The latter configuration appears to have been used in the exercise, although the system’s cab was concealed by a camouflage net. (Source: Janes)

17 Jan 25. PLARF likely taking delivery of DF-26 launchers. Umbra synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery acquired at 2206L on 14 December 2024 shows 26 probable DF-26 intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) transporter-erector-launchers (TELs) remaining at the Beijing Xinghang Electromechanical Equipment Factory staging area. The declining TEL numbers and the lack of activity at the factory’s other assembly locations suggest that the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force (PLARF) has likely taken delivery of the launchers since September 2024 when Umbra SAR showed 59 TELs parked in the area. The US Department of Defense (DoD)’s 2024 China Military Power Report , which was published in December covering developments to early 2024, reiterated that the PLA continues to increase its DF-26 inventory and phase out DF-21 equipment, and has stopped fielding dedicated brigades of the DF-21Cs. The Pentagon also maintained the same DF-26 launcher numbers as the 2023 report at 250. This supports Janes assessment that the DoD’s estimate reflects launchers likely to be assigned to the seven identified DF-26 brigades, which at full strength are likely to be 36 TELs per brigade. It also suggests that additional DF-26 launchers assembled in 2023–24 will bring existing brigades to full strength. A clear indicator of climbing brigade numbers has been identified with the DF-26-equipped 611 Brigade (MUCD 96711), 61 Base, at Chizhou. After Chinese President Xi Jinping inspected the brigade’s 25 TELs in October 2024, Janes acquired Umbra high-resolution SAR of the brigade’s facility confirming additional construction activity. (Source: Janes)

17 Jan 25. SIATT details export ambitions. Brazilian defence firm SIATT – Engenharia, Indústria e Comércio aims to become a key player in the global missile market, the company’s CEO, Rogério Salvador, told Janes in December 2024. These ambitions are supported by investments from EDGE Group of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Salvador added. EDGE Group bought a 50% position in SIATT in 2023. SIATT currently has around 160 employees, Salvador told Janes, with plans to progressively grow to more than 200 personnel. The company’s missile portfolio consists of the MANSUP (Míssil Antinavio Nacional de Superfície) and MANSUP-ER (Extended Range) anti-ship missile systems and the MAX 1.2AC medium-range anti-tank guided missile system. Other SIATT products include the recently unveiled SICS (Sistema Integrado para Comunicações Seguras) secure communications system, developed in partnership with KATIM in the UAE and Indústria de Material Bélico do Brasil (IMBEL), as well as the SGM-120 120 mm guided mortar round, SGH70 70 mm rocket guidance kit, and GSBM small guided bomb. Simultaneously, SIATT is expanding its facilities in São Paulo state, building a production facility in Caçapava for integrating mechanical and electronic equipment, and a new head office in São José dos Campos. Development of the sea-skimming, all-weather MANSUP missile is scheduled to be completed in 2025, the Brazilian Navy told Janes . It is intended to arm the four Tamandaré-class frigates slated for commissioning between 2025 and 2029. (Source: Janes)

17 Jan 25. RDM ready to integrate latest generation ammunition with SANDF howitzers. Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) is ready and willing to integrate its latest generation 155 mm Assegai artillery ammunition with the South African National Defence Force’s (SANDF’s) G5 and G6 howitzers. The G5 towed howitzer and G6 self-propelled howitzer use 45 calibre barrels, able to fire Extended Range Full Bore (ERFB) projectiles in two main versions: standard boat-tail (ERFB-BT) and base bleed (ERFB-BB). Maximum range from a 45-calibre barrelled howitzer is 31 and 41 km respectively for the boat-tail and base bleed projectiles. RDM has upgraded the older version M1 ERFB to the M9 ERFB shell, with changes including new base bleed technology, new driving bands, better dynamic imbalance, etc. However, the ERFB-projectile series is not JBMoU (NATO Joint Ballistics Memorandum of Understanding) compliant, mainly because of the nubs used as the bore riding surface and the heavier mass when compared to the JBMoU-compliant Assegai series. Both Assegai and M9 shells are compatible with existing 45 calibre weapons and are offered in High Explosive (HE) and Carrier versions. When combining the shell with the charge, there are implications, RDM told defenceWeb. Due to the mass difference in shells, the M64 charge is optimized for the ERFB-shell and the M92 charge is optimized for the lighter Assegai shell. RDM said the company is ready to integrate any of the abovementioned charge projectile combinations with the SANDF’s G5 weapons. RDM would have to carry out limited firings from G5 weapons to characterize ballistic conditions for range table purposes as part of the integration process. Introduced in the early 1970s, the 155 mm ERFB shell was a radical departure from earlier designs, using a variety of novel aerodynamic features developed by Dr Gerald Bull to achieve nearly twice the range of conventional 155 mm shells. Besides offering ballistic similitude within the Assegai family, also a key attribute for the M1 ERFB family of shells is range domination, with extended range V-LAP projectiles being part of the offering. RDM pointed out that the Assegai range is optimised for 52 calibre howitzers – Denel’s T5-52 truck-mounted howitzer is equipped with a 52 calibre barrel, making it an ideal candidate for Assegai ammunition. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

11 Jan 25. Armscor reports significant progress on G5 and G6 upgrades. State defence material agency Armscor has reported significant progress made on the upgrade of the SA Army’s G5 and G6 155 mm howitzers under Projects Muhali and Topstar, and emphasised that without these upgrades, the SA Army will not have any functional artillery. Project Muhali addresses obsolescence of the Army’s G6 self-propelled howitzers and covers the replacement of obsolete items while Project Topstar covers a gun laying and navigation system upgrades for the South African Army’s G5 and G6 artillery systems and 127 mm multiple rocket launchers (MRLs). In a presentation to the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans (PCDMV) late last year, Armscor noted that Muhali was contracted in May 2019 and was originally due to be completed in June 2021 at a cost of R178m (R144m plus VAT, escalation and ROE). Due to delays caused by challenges at Denel (tasked with the upgrade), the new delivery date is 15 March 2024. Armscor revealed that to date, R81m has been spent on Muhali, including R27m to Denel Land Systems subcontractor Leonardo. Fifteen vehicles are being upgraded. Although the project is moving forward, Armscor said the financial difficulties of Denel remain a risk as they have a direct impact on the project’s progress, but the situation has slightly improved since the placement of orders. Project funds were ring fenced by Denel Land Systems to keep the project funds within the project, and orders were amended to pay suppliers directly.

“There is a significant progress on the project,” Armscor concluded, with three units 100% complete and the remaining 12 90% complete.

Topstar

Denel was in June 2019 contracted to carry out the Project Topstar upgrade, worth R239m, with contract completion scheduled for the end of March 2021. However, the new delivery date is 15 March 2024. Project funds have been ring fenced by Denel Land Systems to keep the project on track, and suppliers are being paid directly.

Armscor stated that R54m has been spent to date, and four MRLs have been completed, with the balance to be completed by October 2023. Three G5s were completed for training in September and the remaining guns are on track as required for crew training in 2024.

“There is significant progress on the project,” Armscor concluded, stating that locally procured hardware is 100% complete, and Denel is just awaiting inertial navigation units (INUs) from Scotland. Production of Leonardo FIN 3120 INUs is behind schedule. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

17 Jan 25. Missile Defense Agency conducts successful hypersonic test flight. The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has successfully completed a second flight test of its Hypersonic Test Bed (HTB) at Wallops Island, Virginia. This recent milestone, known as HTB-2, involved launching a glide vehicle into hypersonic flight using a sounding rocket.

Lieutenant General Heath Collins, Director of the MDA, described HTB-2 as a significant step in advancing hypersonic defence capabilities. “HTB-2 demonstrates our ability to affordably replicate hypersonic capabilities to enable testing of future hypersonic defence systems,” he stated.

The HTB serves as a versatile platform for evaluating hypersonic technologies and accelerating their development for military purposes. Tuesday’s test follows the inaugural flight of the test bed in June, where the agency gathered data on the Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor.

According to Collins, data from the latest test will guide the development of hypersonic technologies capable of operating in challenging flight environments. This progress is seen as a crucial part of paving the way for advanced hypersonic missile defence systems.

The MDA’s HTB programme continues to play a vital role in enhancing national security by addressing emerging hypersonic threats.

(Source: Google/Missile Defense Agency (MDA)/ https://defence-industry.eu/)

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About Galvion:

MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

January 17, 2025 by

Sponsored by Galvion

www.galvion.com

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15 Jan 25. India completes Nag Mk 2 ATGM trials. India’s state-owned Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has completed field trials of the Nag anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) Mk 2 variant and a new version of the Nag Missile Carrier (NAMICA).

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced on 13 January that the Nag Mk 2 and the NAMICA version 2 underwent three field trials at the Pokhran range in the western state of Rajasthan.

The MoD said the Nag Mk 2 “destroyed precisely all the targets – maximum and minimum range” and that the ATGM is “now ready for induction into the Indian Army”. However, the MoD did not provide any information regarding the range or specifications of the Nag Mk 2.

The Nag Mk 2 is an improved version of the original Nag ATGM, which in 2023 completed testing by the DRDO and approval to be inducted into the Indian Army. In January 2023 the Indian Army’s 17th Mechanised Infantry Regiment also displayed the Nag ATGM during a Republic Day parade indicating the probable induction of the weapon. The NAMICA version 2 is a modified version of the original NAMICA.

The Nag ATGM has been developed by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and the DRDO. The ATGM is mounted on the NAMICA, a variant of the BMP-2 Sarath infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) transportable by rail and air. The ATGM is tripod-mounted and can be deployed on helicopters as well.

According to Janes Land Warfare Platforms: Firepower, Survivability & Mobility, the Nag ATGM has a maximum range of 4 km. The ATGM features a fire-and-forget guidance system, which integrates an imaging infrared (IIR) seeker for guidance and a tandem high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warhead. (Source: Janes)

16 Jan 25. ISTEC selected to provide the Smoke Discharger System (SDS) for the British Army’s new MLRS A2. ISTEC Services Limited is a British company with 35 years of operationally proven experience in the design, manufacture and supply of complex weapon integration solutions and smoke discharger systems (SDS) for military platforms. ISTEC has been selected to provide the SDS for the British Army’s new M270 MLRS A2. At DVD, in September 2024, ISTEC announced the delivery of 65 GPMG gun mounts for MLRS A2 and the combined contract value supplied via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) catalogue exceeds £1.5m. ISTEC has a long history of delivering weapon integration solutions for crew-served weapons such as HMG and MMG across Land, Sea and Air domains and has an extensive operational pedigree having supplied gun mounts for key operational vehicles such as WMIK, Mastiff, Viking and Jackal used for Land operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, ISTEC has also been providing bespoke platform SDS since 2018 and their systems have been fitted to specialist light strike vehicles so also have an extensive operationally proven pedigree.

An effective SDS is essential to enhance the MLRS A2’s survivability by providing rapid and effective smoke screens to obscure the vehicle from enemy observation and targeting. The smoke can be deployed quickly from under protection to create visual and infrared concealment, disrupting the enemy’s line-of-sight and guidance systems. This protection capability is crucial during manoeuvres in contact, allowing the vehicle to re-position while reducing the risk of being hit.

The new MLRS A2 will be fitted with the ISL 66SD/4 which is a four-barrel vehicle-mounted SDS capable of firing all natures of UK in-service 66mm munitions. However, ISTEC SDS can come in multiple configurations as required by the platform including 2, 3 and 4 barrel setups. The ISL 66SD range has been designed to ensure both the base plate and canister connectors are compatible with the UK in-service 66mm No12 Mk8 smoke discharger (dual pole) to minimise the logistic burden. The system is supplied with the ISTEC Fire Control Unit which has 4 firing buttons, an arming safety cover and NVD compatible colour-coded LED indicators to show the status of each pod.

Adrian Webster, Operations Manager at ISTEC said, “We are extremely pleased to have won this important contract to help equip the UK’s new MLRS A2 platform with the best possible defensive suite of smoke dischargers. Our extensive experience in adapting solutions to meet vehicle geometry and architecture requirements, coupled with our long-standing history with both NSPA and the MLRS platform, makes this an exciting opportunity.” He added, “This project, combined with the weapons mount systems, further enhances the UK’s defence capabilities with cutting-edge technology, supporting national security and the operational effectiveness of the MLRS A2.”

16 Jan 25. US Navy Begins Hypersonic Integration on USS Lyndon B. Johnson. Lyndon B. Johnson will be the second ship in the U.S. Navy to deploy hypersonics amid the service’s efforts to up-gun its Zumwalt-class destroyers with Conventional Prompt Strike. The U.S. Navy announced that the USS Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG-1002) dry-docked at Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Pascagoula Shipyard in Mississippi last Sunday to begin the integration process for Conventional Prompt Strike, making the Zumwalt-class destroyer the second vessel to receive the conventional hypersonic missiles.

“Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG 1002) will be the second ship of the class to receive the large missile vertical launch system and CPS. We’ve extended the combat system activation period by two years to accomplish this installation. The CPS work was placed on contract in August and we dry-docked the ship on Sunday in preparation for land-level production,” Capt. Clint Lawler, Program Manager, Zumwalt-class Destroyer program office, unveiled during a Navy Sea Systems Command presentation at Surface Navy Association 2025.

While USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) and USS Michael Monsoor (DDG-1001) will receive the hypersonic conversion through an additional back fit, lessons from the first project influenced NAVSEA to extend the fitting out period of Lyndon B. Johnson to accommodate CPS. According to Lawler, this will allow the fleet to keep Michael Monsoor in service for learning opportunities while the other two ships in the stealth destroyer class are fitted for the hypersonics.

“The Zumwalt class, with its advanced stealth design and integration of the Conventional Prompt Strike weapons system, will be the Navy’s premier offensive surface combatant, providing sea-based precision capabilities that can effectively engage strategic targets with long-range fires.”

NAVSEA photos detailing hypersonic integration on USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) between January and October of 2024. Photo by author

Also described by Lawler as a “key capability” of Chief of Naval Operations Project 33, a plan to have the U.S. Navy ready for a major conflict in 2027, CPS is envisioned to provide American forces with the ability to “penetrate air defenses to strike high-value, time-sensitive targets.” The Navy will field the missiles on the three Zumwalt-class destroyers and Block V Virginia-class nuclear attack submarines in 2029. U.S. Army Multi-Domain Task Forces will also deploy the system, dubbed Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon and Dark Eagle, in a ground-based role. An Army test last month was sucessfully conducted from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida.

The CPS installation work on Zumwalt lasted between January and October 2024. This project saw the stealthy warship lose one of two Advanced Gun Systems in exchange for four large tubes capable of launching three hypersonic missiles each for a total of 12. Zumwalt hit the water with its upgrades for the first time last month, and the Navy is looking at the destroyer to test CPS in 2027 or 2028. Lyndon B. Johnson is set to be commissioned in 2027, while hypersonic installation work on the Michael Monsoor is slated to begin in 2026. (Source: News Now/NavalNews)

15 Jan 25. RoK starts L-SAM II development. DAPA said it held a meeting to formally launch the L-SAM II project on 15 January. It said the programme will receive investment worth KRW567.7 bn (USD389 m) through 2028.

The programme is led by DAPA subsidiary, the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), and about 19 companies are expected to be involved in its development, DAPA said.

It added that L-SAM II will be capable of intercepting missiles at a higher altitude and at a longer range than the original L-SAM system, the development of which was completed in May 2024. The range of the L-SAM II will be “three–four times compared to L-SAM”, DAPA said.

In April 2023 DAPA approved funding worth KRW2.71 trillion to develop L-SAM II from 2024 to 2035. The capability consists of a gliding-stage interceptor missile that will be intended to counter some of North Korea’s most modern missile systems including new hypersonic weapons and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

L-SAM was developed by ADD and local firm LIG Nex1, with the company scheduled to start producing the system in 2025. Citing LIG Nex1, Janes has previously reported that L-SAM has a range of 150 km and that it is capable of intercepting targets at altitudes between 40 and 100 km.

An L-SAM battery consists of a multifunction radar; a command-and-control centre; a combat control station; and four truck-mounted launchers, two of which are equipped with anti-aircraft and the other two with anti-ballistic missiles. (Source: Janes)

15 Jan 25. The Italian Army has decided to introduce Skynex air defence systems from Rheinmetall. The order to supply a first system worth a total of €73m has now been placed at Rheinmetall Italia S.p.A., Rome. The contract includes an option to supply three additional systems worth €204m. A Skynex system consists of a sensor and tracking unit for air surveillance, a control station as a command-and-control centre and four 35mm firing units. Skynex systems are designed to counter threats from missiles, artillery and mortars, as well as drones and loitering munitions – both for national defence and for the protection of contingents in operational areas.

The scheduled delivery of the pilot system is to be completed during Q2/2026, while three follow-up systems, as option, could be contractualized within 2027. The distribution package includes the appropriate ammunition, training and maintenance services as well as spare parts.

Italy is the first NATO member state to opt for Rheinmetall’s Skynex technology Skynex technology including the Revolver Gun Mk3 35mm. The successful order is thus an important corner stone in Rheinmetall’s strategy of establishing a new standard in the field of cannon-based air defence for international armed forces. NATO member Romania also recently opted for Skynex in combination with another type of gun already in service there (GDF-009 twin guns). Skynex air defence systems are already proving their quality to the Ukrainian armed forces in the harsh conditions of war, protecting people and property from airborne threats.

Rheinmetall is also promisingly positioned in Italy in the field of heavy combat vehicles. Together with its partner company Leonardo, Rheinmetall is expecting large-volume orders to equip the Italian armed forces with combat vehicles, namely the Italian main battle tank (MBT) and the Lynx armored infantry combat system (AICS).

Rheinmetall already has a strong presence in Italy and generates sales of around €1bn with three subsidiaries – including Rheinmetall Italia – and a total of around 1,500 employees at five locations.

The Skynex Air Defence System

Skynex is a cannon-based air defence system and is therefore especially suitable for close-range protection where guided weapons cannot operate effectively. The 35mm Revolver Gun Mk3 cannons have a cadence of 1,000 rounds per minute and a range of up to 4 kilometres. The system uses programmable Ahead ammunition that is resistant to electronic countermeasures and ensures precise target engagement. In terms of cost-effectiveness, the ammunition is significantly more efficient than comparable missile-based systems.

Operational successes in the Ukraine underline the efficiency with which the cannon-based air defence system can defend against air targets – especially cruise missiles and drones.

Skynex is based on the concept of separating the airspace surveillance from the effectors. Italy has opted for the configuration with the XTAR 3D radar from Rheinmetall, which can monitor the airspace in a radius of up to 50 km.

Thanks to its existing modularity, the required resources can be connected to the command-and-control network depending on the mission. Skynex offers great autonomy in terms of sensors and effectors, as to integrating a wide range of modern air defence systems into the system. The only requirement is the presence of a dedicated tracking unit.

In addition to individual sensors and effectors, existing air defence systems such as Rheinmetall’s Skyshield and Skyguard families can also be integrated into the new architecture as firing units. The detected air situation is displayed in a remote command-and-control centre on a map with the sensors and effectors positioned in the field, thus easing a target assignment to the air defence assets connected to the system.

15 Jan 25. Hall & Watts Defence Optics and ARIS Partner to Supply Artillery Sighting Systems to the Italian Army. Hall & Watts Defence Optics, a leader in artillery sighting systems, in partnership with ARIS (Applicazioni Rielaborazioni Impianti Speciali), a renowned Italian company specializing in the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of special vehicles and equipment, has been selected by the Italian Ministry of Defence (MOD) to supply up to 54 artillery sighting systems to the Land Forces’ FH70 15mm MLU program.

As 21st-century artillery platforms increasingly adopt advanced digital navigation and fire control systems, ensuring a robust manual backup has become essential for operational continuity. The Italian MOD recognizes this critical need, ensuring their FH70 howitzers are equipped with reliable manual artillery sighting systems as a fail-safe to complement their new digital technologies.

The collaboration between Hall & Watts and ARIS combines decades of expertise in manual sighting systems with ARIS’s extensive experience in vehicle and system upgrades for defense applications. Together, they offer the Italian MOD a comprehensive solution that ensures precision, reliability, and seamless integration with the upgraded artillery platforms.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with ARIS in supporting the Italian Army’s modernization efforts,” said Edward Hoskins, Managing Director of Hall & Watts Defence Optics. “Our sighting systems, combined with ARIS’s integration expertise, will ensure the FH70 howitzers maintain operational readiness, even in the most challenging scenarios.”

ARIS’s MD G.Bellezza added: “Partnering with Hall & Watts on this critical project exemplifies how innovative collaboration can deliver unmatched solutions to modern defense challenges. Together, we are proud to support the Italian MOD’s vision for a modern, resilient artillery force.”

The Italian MOD’s upgrade of their FH70 platforms reflects their commitment to integrating cutting-edge digital systems while ensuring operational safeguards through reliable manual systems. This forward-thinking approach enhances their artillery units’ effectiveness and guarantees mission success in diverse combat scenarios.

About Hall & Watts Defence Optics

Hall & Watts Defence Optics has been a manufacturing military optics and sighting systems for over 50 years. The company’s products are trusted by armed forces worldwide for their accuracy, reliability, and adaptability in demanding operational environments.

About ARIS

Founded in 1946, ARIS (Applicazioni Rielaborazioni Impianti Speciali) specializes in the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of special vehicles and equipment, system upgrades, and vehicle fittings for both military and civil applications. With a strong presence in the defense sector, ARIS is a trusted partner of the Italian Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Interior.

14 Jan 25. Leonardo DRS Awarded $99m Contract to Modernize U.S. Army’s Mortar Fire Control System. Leonardo DRS, Inc. (NASDAQ: DRS) announced today it has been awarded a contract to provide the U.S. Army with next-generation Mortar Fire Control Systems (MFCS). The firm fixed-price IDIQ contract is worth more than $99m. Under the contract, Leonardo DRS is responsible for the production and delivery of fire control systems and fielding services to support mortar Weapons and Fire Control programs.

The MFCS modernizes the U.S. Army’s current mortar fire control capability, linking mortar fires with the digital battlefield. MFCS combines a highly accurate weapon pointing device, an inertial navigation/position system, and a digital communications capability embedded in a rugged fire control computer to create a highly responsive and accurate fire control system. The system allows mortar crews to send and receive digital call for fire messages, determine the pointing and position of the weapon, and calculate ballistic solutions.

“Leonardo DRS is uniquely qualified for this program because of its extensive catalogue of technology and experience in providing advanced, ruggedized and networked computing systems across the U.S. Army inventory,” said Dennis Crumley, senior vice president and general manager of the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business unit. “We are proud to have been selected for this important contract supporting Army modernization and look forward to partnering with the program offices to support our warfighters with this enhanced next-generation mortar and fire control computing capability,” he said.

Network computing is a key strategic focus for the DRS as it continues to be the leading provider of advanced C5 technologies, enabling increased data and communications needed for targeting, situational awareness and Battle Management Systems (BMS) in multi-domain battlefield operations. The company is investing in the future of C5 for the Department of Defense through the development of the next generation of tactical computing Systems, AI processing solutions and advanced C5ISR/EW Modular Open Suite of Standards/ Sensor Open System Architecture (CMOSS/SOSA) aligned mounted systems – all aimed at enabling future network and platform processing to improve sensor fusion, situational awareness, and reduce the cognitive burden for commanders and crews.

14 Jan 25. Ukraine to be the first to receive RCH 155 artillery system. In total, Ukraine will gain 54 howitzers, the first six systems are scheduled for 2025. Ukraine will be the first nation to deploy the Remote Controlled Howitzer-155 (RCH-155) self-propelled artillery system, developed by the German armaments manufacturer KNDS. Germany’s Defence Minister Boris Pistorius took delivery of the first unit at the KNDS site in Kassel on 13 January 2025, where he passed it on to Ukraine’s Ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev. In total, Ukraine will gain 54 howitzers, the first six systems are scheduled for 2025. However, the two countries were initally contracted for the delivery of 18 RCH 155s in July 2022, though the order increased in 2023 for a further 36 units. This corresponds to three artillery battalions. This transfer comes nearly a year after the German Armed Forces had begun testing the howitzer. The weapon combines a new development of the Panzerhaubitze (PzH) 2000 L52 gun, with its automated firepower of nine rounds per minute, and a range of 54km+ depending on the ammunition, alongside the armoured protection of a Boxer vehicle. Only two crewmen are needed to operate this long-range artillery system. The support comes even before the Bundeswehr has acquired its own systems, which Makeiev noted, stating “that’s how allies treat each other: they close security gaps, especially when these gaps are bleeding wounds.” This transfer demonstrates the greater sense of European unity and the continental policy of collective defence against Russia. However, it also offers users the chance to see how the system operates sooner. The RCH platform is not unlike other forms of security aid partners have donated, says GlobalData defence analyst James Marques.

“In terms of calibre and ammunition, the RCH is already similar to other artillery given to Ukraine – it’s the PzH 2000 mounted on a wheeled chassis, and with a new remote and automated fire control system. It’s not changing the shape or nature of the artillery fighting, but does what it needs to do a lot faster.” James Marques, GlobalData defence analyst

International partners have already delivered 36 PzH 2000s to Ukraine, of which Germany alone has supplied 25 units.

“It can shoot, move and respond to requests for fire much more efficiently. It’s not changing the shape or nature of the artillery fighting, but does what it needs to do a lot faster. I think this is also a good choice for the UK’s replacement for AS90.”

Other RCH 155 users

Many nations are interested in the system, and a handful already intend to adopt RCH 155. The latter include Germany and the UK, while Switzerland will integrate the RCH Automatic Gun Module to its Piranha IV vehicles.

Notably, the UK ditched its competitive acquisition process in which the South Korean K9A2 artillery system was formerly in the running against the RCH.

However, since the RCH selection in April 2024 the British user has gone back on its claims that the RCH platforms will reach Minimum Deployable Capability by 2029. Currently, the Ministry of Defence have no timeline for platform delivery. (Source: army-technology.com)

13 Jan 25. UK Defence probes industry over FADS capabilities. A new range of maritime threats will shape the solutions embedded in the Future Air Dominance System (FADS). The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) issued a Request for Information (RfI) in mid-December 2024 to gain a clearer understanding of the current maritime capabilities available for its Future Air Dominance System (FADS) programme.

Speaking with suppliers, the government aims to flesh out FADS through numerous one-to-one sessions in its second market engagement event over three days at the end of Janaury 2025.

At present, the MoD suggests that this Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) concept will employ a ‘system-of systems’ approach, combining various diasggregated sensors and effectors in the battlespace.

Besides naval aircraft, weapons, and emerging uncrewed systems, at the centre of this integrated network are the future Type 83 destroyers that are scheduled to replace the Royal Navy’s six existing Type 45 warships in the late 2030s.

In particular, the RfI also points to innovation in Long Range Precision Strike (LRPS) capabilities to overcome “the hardest of targets in air, land, and maritime domains.”

Armed to the teeth

A new range of maritime threats faced over the past few years will doubtless shape the solutions embedded in the FADS. However, it must be noted that the Type 83 destroyer is in a pre-conceptual stage so any solutions are speculative.

Nevertheless, William Freer, National Security fellow at the Council on Geostrategy, a think tank, observes growing threats from various aerial weapons.

“Warships over the last two decades were operating in a relatively benign environment and were equipped to do so. This is no longer the case.” William Freer, Council on Geostrategy.

“The maritime component of FADS will have to contend with small but growing numbers of hypersonic missiles, the proliferation of anti-ship ballistic missiles, the potential of large saturation attacks by cruise missiles, as well as the potential of drone swarms,” he observed.

“One thing is becoming clear, warships over the last two decades were operating in a relatively benign environment and were equipped to do so. This is no longer the case. But the Royal Navy has not been sitting still.

“Although developing shipborne ballistic missile defences (BMD) has been slow, the missile defences will be significantly upgraded in the coming years,” suggested Freer.

By the end of the decade Type 45 destroyers should each receive an extra 24 missile cells (taking the total to 72) as well as BMD capability.

Depending on how the Type 26’s Mk41 VLS cells are loaded it could carry more than double the missiles (and a greater variety of missiles) than the current Type 23.

It has also been decided that the Type 31 will be equipped with up to 32 Mk41 cells instead of the original plan of just eight cells for Sea Ceptor missiles.

Red Sea crisis

Nowhere are these threats more prevalent than in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

In 2023-4, the Type 45 destroyer HMS Diamond and Type 23 frigate HMS Richmond, have respectively operated in the Red Sea as part of an allied force under Operation Prosperity Guardian to defend maritime shipping against Houthi strikes in the crucial chokepoint.

There is a considerable cost gap between Sea Viper/Ceptor and attritable uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). For that reason, the Royal Navy has made good progress with a cheaper counter-UAS solution with its development of a directed-energy weapon system, DragonFire, which will be fielded by 2027.

While the programme cost the MoD £100m ($125m), the government noted after the success of its demonstrator that the cost of operating the weapon is typically less than £10 per shot.

What will the surface fleet look like?

Recent research suggests that the Royal Navy will need to determine how it will disperse its capabilities across the surface fleet, especially when it comes to deciding what platform will take on the role of a ‘radar picket’ to get the most efficient response times against aerial threats.

However, this must also be considered within the context of a reduced force structure. Due to the decommissioning of several ships in 2024 and the capability gaps to come, the Royal Navy will be operating a more nimble service with ships operating a persistent forward presence around the world.

While little can be said about Type 83, major decisions regarding other surface fleet programmes are expected to come in the spring with the release of the all-encompassing Strategic Defence Review according to the Minister of Defence Procurement, Maria Eagle, in a parliamentary written response on 9 January 2025. (Source: naval-technology.com)

19 Dec 24. 713285451 – Future Air Dominance System (FADS) – RFI – Market Engagement.

Ministry of Defence

Published date: 19 December 2024

Last edited date: 19 December 2024

Open early engagement – This means that a procurement idea is currently active, it is in the early stage of development and judging interest from potential suppliers.

Contract summary

Industry

Warships – 35510000

Location of contract BS34 8JH

Procurement reference tender_473601/1436909

Published date 19 December 2024

Closing date 17 January 2025

Contract is suitable for SMEs? Yes

Contract is suitable for VCSEs? No

Description

The Future Air Dominance System (FADS) Team within Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), part of the UK Ministry of Defence (“the Authority”) is seeking to engage with suppliers for the purposes of gaining a clearer understanding of current market capabilities and potential offerings which may be relevant to FADS.

FADS is a transformative multi-domain programme that will provide Maritime Integrated Air and Missile Defence (M-IAMD) against the toughest of threats in the air and space domain, and Long-Range Precision Strike (LRPS) against the hardest of targets in air, land, and maritime domains. The FADS programme will align itself with a ‘system of systems’ approach and brigade around the themes of; SENSE, DECIDE, EFFECT, CONNECT, HOST and ENABLE.

FADS will deliver Air Defence of the Carrier Strike Group and Littoral Strike Group from the mid-2030s; a role currently being provided primarily by the Royal Navy’s Type 45 Destroyers.

Following the issuance of a Prior Information Notice (PIN), dated 18 November 2024 (Ref. 2024/S 000-037234), the Authority would like to sincerely thank all suppliers who have expressed an interest in the FADS programme. If you attended the brief on 03 December and would like to provide some feedback, the Authority would be grateful if you could complete the questionnaire linked here

https://forms.office.com/e/9K96GW0B7g

– to provide feedback that will help us improve how we engage with you in the future.

The slide pack shared at the brief is available for viewing via AWARD. To access the documentation, interested suppliers will have to register to AWARD and pass necessary checks in a security gateway. To register, please follow this link – https://award.commercedecisions.com/dsp/web/project/c681dabd-6f69-4130-a815-9a82d6902ca3/register

– and follow the instructions when prompted.

This second notice serves to provide further information regarding the next Market Engagement Event 2 (MEE2): One to Ones.

These sessions will be held on 28, 29 and 30 January 2025.

Previous notice about this procurement

713285451 – Future Air Dominance System (FADS) – RFI – Market Engagement

Early engagement
Published 19 December 2024

Attachments

20241219_FADS- MEE2- RFI_O.pdf
n/a

About the buyer

Address

Ministry of Defence, Defence Equipment and Support

Bristol

BS34 8JH

England

(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

07 Nov 24. 712372454- UK DEFENSIVE AIDS SYSTEM – VTN

Ministry of Defence

Published date: 7 November 2024

Open opportunity – This means that the contract is currently active, and the buying department is looking for potential suppliers to fulfil the contract.

Contract summary

Industry

Electronic warfare systems and counter measures – 35730000

Location of contract

Any region

Value of contract £100,000,000

Procurement reference tender_457248/1423024

Published date 7 November 2024

Closing date 31 March 2025

Closing time 12pm

Contract start date 30 June 2025

Contract end date 30 June 2028

Contract type Supply contract

Procedure type Single tender action (below threshold)

What is a single tender action (below threshold)?

Contract is suitable for SMEs? No

Contract is suitable for VCSEs? No

Description

VOLUNTARY TRANSPARENCY NOTICE (VTN) TO PLACE A SINGLE SOURCE CONTRACT FOR UK DEFENSIVE AIDS SYSTEMS (DAS) PROCURE, SUSTAIN AND ENHANCE (PSE

Air Platform Systems Delivery Team (APS DT), part of the Ministry of Defence (“the Authority”), intends to place a three (3) year contract with Leonardo UK Ltd (LUK) for the procurement of LUK supplied Defensive Aids Systems (DAS) hardware, software, ancillaries and a train-the-trainer service for users and maintainers. This contract will also include in-service support for the hardware in the form of maintenance, technical engineering, software support, training, and associated software updates. Additionally, LUK, as the Design Organisation (DO), will be responsible for a programme of enhancements covering hardware/software modifications to the DAS design to allow it to meet evolving threats. These enhancements may include the integration of additional subsystems to the DAS. UK DAS is essential for the provision of critical operational capability to Defence.

The Authority intends to include further options to the contract to allow for the extension of contract duration by up to an additional two (2) years in the form of two (2) twelve (12) month extensions.

The Authority has determined this single source contract is excluded from Defence and Security Public Contracts Regulations 2011 under Regulation7(1)(a) in conjunction with Regulation 6(3A) (a). In addition, a “Warlike Stores” exemption under regulation 6(3A) (b) applies.

About the buyer

Address

MOD Abbey Wood, BS34 8JH,

Bristol

BS34 8JH

England

(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

13 Jan 25. Nammo and JUNGHANS Defence announce strategic partnership for advanced 30mm ammunition. Nammo, a leading global provider of specialised ammunition and rocket propulsion systems, has entered into a strategic partnership with JUNGHANS Defence, a renowned expert in fuze technology. The collaboration aims to develop cutting-edge 30mm medium-calibre ammunition with integrated proximity fuzes, enhancing precision and effectiveness in modern defence applications. The agreement was signed on 9 January 2025 in Raufoss, Norway, by Nammo Executive Vice President Vegard Sande and JUNGHANS Defence CEO Dr Kim Eduard Lioe. The partnership combines Nammo’s expertise in ammunition development with JUNGHANS Defence’s advanced fuze technologies to deliver high-performance solutions for air defence and drone countermeasures. The new 30mm ammunition will leverage advanced proximity fuze technology to improve accuracy and operational efficiency. This innovation addresses the growing demand for cost-effective and reliable defence capabilities against drones and other threats in increasingly complex operational environments. Both companies expressed optimism about the partnership. JUNGHANS Defence highlighted the dedication of both teams in achieving this milestone agreement, which promises to optimise the synergy between ammunition and fuze systems. Nammo, headquartered in Raufoss, Norway, operates across 27 production sites in 11 countries and employs over 3,600 personnel. JUNGHANS Defence, rooted in precision mechanical engineering from its origins as a watch factory, continues to set benchmarks in fuze safety and innovation. (Source: Google/https://defence-industry.eu/)

13 Jan 25. Oshkosh Defense Advances Next-Gen Autonomous Technology for ROGUE-Fires. Oshkosh Defense LLC, an Oshkosh Corporation [NYSE: OSK] business, was awarded a $29.9m contract modification to integrate next-generation autonomous technology into the Remotely Operated Ground Unit for Expeditionary Fires (ROGUE-Fires) with deliveries beginning in 2025. This award from the Marine Corps Systems Command reflects Oshkosh’s commitment to delivering advanced solutions that enhance operational capabilities and align with the Marine Corps’ mission to seize and defend key maritime terrain. Oshkosh will execute the award with ground-based autonomy partner, Forterra. ROGUE-Fires enhances the Marine Corps’ sea denial capabilities by furthering multi-domain dominance against adversaries and rapid expeditionary employment of Marine forces. The advanced self-driving technology of ROGUE-Fires provides the Marine Corps with increased flexibility, scalability and resilience in contested environments. By reducing the need for human driving in high-risk combat environments, this technology enhances battlefield lethality critical to success in the United States Indo-Pacific Command.

“Through our trusted partnership with the Marine Corps and collaboration with industry leaders like Forterra, Oshkosh Defense remains committed to equipping the U.S. Marine Corps with advanced solutions that establish dominance across all domains,” said Pat Williams, chief programs officer at Oshkosh Defense. “ROGUE-Fires not only enhances mission flexibility and lethality but also directly supports the USMC’s modernization priorities, including sea denial capabilities, innovative formations, and optimized force design to meet evolving threats.”

Market forecasts by Region, User, Application, Platform, Size, and Power Source. Country Analysis, Market and Technology Overview, Opportunities and Scenario Analysis, and Leading Company Profiles

This award underscores Oshkosh Defense’s strategic partnership with Forterra, leveraging cutting-edge autonomous technology integrated with existing platforms, to achieve unparalleled interoperability while advancing Force Design 2030 objectives. This collaboration reflects Oshkosh’s commitment to equipping Marines with innovative solutions that outpace evolving threats and secure mission success in the most challenging environments. (Source: ASD Network)

07 Jan 25. US Army to award nearly USD5bn PrSM Inc 1 follow-on. Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control will build the next lots of early operational capability (EOC) Precision Strike Missiles Increment 1 (PrSM Inc 1), according to a US Army notice on 6 January. The indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity award could be worth up to USD4.9bn, according to the notice. The contract is to produce approximately 634 PrSM surface-to-surface missiles, according to a sources sought notice released in May 2024. Launched from a M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) or M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System, the PrSM munition has a threshold range of 400 km and may have achieved greater than 450 km in range. It replaces the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), which the US has sent to aid Ukraine. Officials have said they would increase the pace of PrSM deliveries depending on how many ATACMSs were used in Ukraine. Strategic and Operational Rockets and Missiles (STORM) – inside of Program Executive Office Missiles and Space – oversees PrSM, including future increments. Currently, there are four additional increments in development. They include a seeker for sea-based targets and one with an increased range. The munitions will be employed by the army’s Multi-Domain Task Forces (MDTFs), a new unit that will take charge of several of the emerging precision-strike technologies. (Source: Janes)

08 Jan 25. Erdogan doubles range of Türkiye’s ballistic missile programme. Türkiye is developing a missile with a range of 2,000 km, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said in a televised speech on 6 January. This is twice the range he has previously given for his country’s missile programme.

“We have decided to both strengthen our missile stock with a range of 800 km and above and to accelerate our missile development programme with a range of 2,000 km and above,” he said in a part of a speech listing major achievements made by the Turkish defence industry in 2024.

Erdoğan previously said Türkiye was working on a missile with a range of 1,000 km. “The range of the Tayfun missile was announced as 560 km; we do not find even 560 [km] sufficient. I had a meeting last week. I asked what the final situation was, [and] they said we will reach 1,000 km,” he said in an 18 December 2022 speech.

Erdoğan noted the previous month that the Tayfun ballistic missile being developed by Roketsan had achieved a range of 561 km and said a missile called the Cenk was being developed alongside the Gezgin, which is a long-range cruise missile. A test of the Tayfun ballistic missile was publicised for the first time on 18 October 2022, when a video was released showing a twin launcher firing a missile westwards from Rize-Artvin Airport on Türkiye’s Black Sea coast. Roketsan announced what it said was a second Tayfun test on 23 May 2023, releasing a video showing a missile being launched from the same location. (Source: Janes)

About Galvion:

MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

January 10, 2025 by

Sponsored by Galvion

www.galvion.com

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09 Jan 25. Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) is developing the Modified Ballistic Re-Entry Vehicle-11 (MBRV-11) supporting the Missile Defense Agency’s (MDA) Integrated Master Test Plan (IMTP) to test the Next Generation Interceptor (NGI). Through close partnership with MDA, Northrop Grumman significantly expedited the development timeline for MBRV-11, moving from contract award through Critical Design Review (CDR) in less than 16 months.
* Northrop Grumman and MDA completed CDR in October and conducted a combined System Requirements Review (SRR) and Preliminary Design Review (PDR) for the first time to accelerate development.
* To meet the aggressive development schedule, Northrop Grumman procured all hardware needed to produce the target vehicles and began qualification testing prior to CDR and began system-level avionics testing immediately after.
Robin Heard, director, targets, Northrop Grumman: “Through executing with speed and building for the future, MBRV-11 is a paradigm shift in the way we partner with MDA to develop new programs. Our deep mission experience enabled us to compress the development timeline by combining the SRR and PDR, begin qualification testing ahead of CDR and quickly transition into production to meet the customer’s need for an early operational capability.”
Northrop Grumman’s MBRV-11 is a new front-end that consists of a baseline vehicle design, with four optional enhancement kits that represent varying capabilities to provide mission flexibility. MBRV-11 will be integrated onto Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) and Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) targets to emulate sophisticated missile threats the NGI is designed to defeat. The contract includes five vehicles to support five missile defense test demonstrations, with first flight test scheduled in 2027. Northrop Grumman’s flight-proven hardware and software designs, common system architectures and heritage avionics support the aggressive development and production schedule. MDA recently awarded Northrop Grumman a contract to upgrade its IRBM and ICBM target vehicles and integrate with MBRV-11, making the company the end-to-end provider for the targets, including payload and boost vehicle. The program supports MDA’s IMTP that includes ground test, flight test and warfighter training and combatant command exercise events.
Northrop Grumman is a leading provider of threat-representative target vehicles used in the test and verification of the nation’s missile defense systems. By combining an industry-leading portfolio of advanced avionics, adaptable vehicle enhancement kits and advanced payloads with technology expertise in solid rocket motors, Northrop Grumman rapidly configures target vehicles to replicate sophisticated adversary threats. The company has provided IRBM and ICBM target vehicles since 2011, delivering 25 vehicles and supporting 10 successful missile defense demonstrations.

07 Jan 25. Lithuania integrate small UAS with Switchblade combat drones. The order brings the value of the nation’s military acquisitions from the US to $1.3bn in total. Lithuania has acquired a batch of small uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) from the US defence supplier, AeroVironment, and intends to buy many more. The Army plans to integrate these support drones with larger Switchblade 600 loitering munitions purchased by the same company in 2022, and these were said to arrive sometime in 2024. The government is the fist country to purchase the kamikaze drone after the US. The system has high precision optics, up to a 40-minute flight time, and an anti-armour warhead. This strategic drone combination will see the smaller vertical-lift units provide fire control and adjustment tasks while the larger combat drones operate as one-way-attack systems effective against heavily armoured vehicles, including tanks. According to a statement from the Ministry of National Defence, these small UAS units are scheduled to arrive towards the end of 2025 and they will be “supplemented further in the future.”
In the same breath, the government confirmed two other contracts related to the acquisition of manpack radios for troops operating Joint Light Tactical Vehicles and Boxer ‘Vilkas’ fighting vehicles. Currently the largest spender on US military supplies in the Baltic region, Lithuania’s deal – worth approximately $7.8m (€7.49m) and signed in mid-December 2024 – brings the total value of the country’s US military acquisitions to $1.3bn.
Their bilateral trade with the US makes up approximately 20% of Lithuania’s overall military procurement according to the Ministry. (Source: army-technology.com)

07 Jan 25. European Consortium Launches the SAAT Project to Redefine Small Arms Ammunition Standards. FN Herstal is proud to announce the official launch of the Small Arms Ammunition Technologies (SAAT) project. This four-year initiative, coordinated by FN Herstal and conducted by a European consortium made of defence companies, research organisations, and Ministries of Defence from nine countries, aims to establish a common standard for small arms ammunition in Europe in order to enhance interoperability and strengthen European strategic autonomy and sovereignty in defence.
During the kick-off meeting held at FN Herstal’s headquarters in mid-December, representatives from the nine participating countries – i.e. Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden and Switzerland – established the project’s governance and laid the groundwork for collaboration.
Key Objectives of the SAAT Project:
* Defining the requirements for small arms ammunition effectiveness against current and future threats
* Defining the state of the art of small arms ammunition technologies regarding projectile, propellant, cartridge case and interaction with the weapon
* Developing an optimised prototype of a small arms projectile
* Contributing to the optimisation of ammunition component technologies
With a budget of €8.3m, the SAAT project brings together 18 European partners – large manufacturers, SMEs, research institutes, and national defence bodies – all of whom bringing leading expertise in their respective fields. Industry participants are Beretta (Italy), CZUB (Czech Republic), Eurenco (Belgium and Sweden), Fiocchi Munizioni (Italy), FN Herstal (Belgium, acting as project coordinator), Mesko (Poland), Nammo (Norway and Sweden), Nobel Sport (France) and Swiss P Defence (Switzerland). As far as research organisations are concerned, the consortium includes Armasuisse (Switzerland), DGA Techniques Terrestres (France), FFI (Norway), FOI (Sweden), RMA (Royal Military Academy of Belgium), TNO (The Netherlands) and WAT (Military University of Technology, Poland).
This diverse partnership underscores the commitment of European nations to fostering innovation and collaboration within the military small arms and ammunition sector.
“This kick-off meeting is the first step in an ambitious journey to develop innovative ammunition solutions for Europe’s defence forces,” said Jonas Granberg, Project Officer Ammunition Technology at European Defence Agency (EDA). “By bringing together expertise from across Europe, SAAT will deliver practical, effective, and forward-looking solutions that address today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.” (Source: ASD Network)

07 Jan 25. Kalashnikov Announces First Flight of KUB-10E Attack Drone. The Kalashnikov Concern has released a video featuring the first flight of the KUB-10E, a new guided munition (GM) model in the KUB family.
It is designed to target enemy light vehicles and armored personnel carriers, command posts, air and missile defense facilities, communications surveillance and jamming sites, logistics infrastructure, combat and logistics units, field storage depots for ammunition, fuel, and lubricants, drone launch sites, and unsheltered aircraft (helicopters) at airfields. The system can be used at any time of day, in various weather conditions, including wind gusts up to 15 meters per second. It operates effectively in temperatures ranging from -30 to +40 degrees Celsius at the ground level. The new guided munition boasts a significantly longer range and greater power compared to the previous models in the line-up. The GM guidance method is based on pre-specified coordinates and data from the global navigation satellite system (GNSS). The drone is catapult-launched. It has a cruise flight speed of 100 km/h. Its flight altitude ranges from 100 to 2,500 meters. The KUB GM has proved to be extremely effective in the SMO zone, and the feedback from the servicemen has been positive. This year, Kalashnikov Concern has almost tripled its production volume. The KUB range includes several versions of guided munitions. (Source: UAS VISION/Kalashnikov)

07 Jan 25. The next step for the artillery plant in Lithuania: Rheinmetall, EPSO-G Invest and Girait’s ginkluot’s gamykla officially sign partnership agreement.
The project of the German-Lithuanian artillery plant in Baisogala continues to move forward. On 20 December 2024, representatives of the German defence technology company Rheinmetall, the Lithuanian energy transmission and exchange group EPSO-G, the EPSO-G company EPSO-G Invest and the Lithuanian company Giraits ginkluots gamykla signed a partnership agreement. This regulates the acquisition of shares in the company Rheinmetall Defence Lietuva, which will build the artillery shell manufacturing plant for 155-mm artillery shells.
The agreement stipulates that Rheinmetall will hold 51 percent of the shares in Rheinmetall Defence Lietuva. 48 percent will be owned by EPSO-G Invest and 1 percent by Giraits ginkluots gamykla.
“At the end of November, we signed a contract for the lease of a land plot for the future factory in the Radviliškis district and the purchase of 155 mm ammunition. With the signed agreement with our Lithuanian partners, we have completed another very important stage and will now plan the construction of the new factory and prepare it for operation together,” says Armin Papperger, Chairman of the Rheinmetall executive board.
“Lithuania’s energy independence and security are inseparable from each other and these are the main strategic directions of the EPSO-G group. In this project, we will use our accumulated experience in implementing strategic infrastructural energy and security projects,” says Tomas Varneckas, CEO of EPSO-G Invest.
According to Violeta Kaštien, interim manager of the Giraits ginkluots gamykla, the involvement of the Girait Armaments Factory in this project is a significant step, opening up new opportunities for cooperation with one of the world’s leaders in the defense sector. “This partnership project not only strengthens our competencies and role in the Lithuanian defense industry, but also contributes to ensuring the country’s security interests. From an economic point of view, this is a targeted development step, strengthening the potential of the Lithuanian defense industry and promoting its further development,” says V. Kaštien?.
The plant near Baisogala is expected to start operations in two years period and, once completed, will be capable of producing tens of thousands of 155 mm calibre artillery shells annually. According to the preliminary calculations total investments into the facility may reach around €260m. The plant is expected to create at least 150 new direct jobs in the region.

06 Jan 25. Philippines outlines Typhon intention. The Philippines has outlined an intention to procure Lockheed Martin’s Mid-Range Capability (MRC) weapon system, also known as the Typhon Weapon System, from the US government. Citing Philippine Army Chief Lieutenant General Roy Galido, the state-owned Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported in late December that the Philippine Army is looking to procure the system to defend its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
According to Lt Gen Galido, the Typhon is required to defend the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), which was launched by the Armed Forces of the Philippines in early 2024 to support the exploration of resources within the EEZ.
He also indicated that negotiations between the United States and the Philippines about the procurement are under way.
“There are negotiations,” he said in comments reported by PNA. “Because we see [the Typhon’s] feasibility and adaptability, the [Philippine] Army was tasked to come up with plans to contribute to the CADC, and one of our inputs is to be able to defend the land through this type of platform.”
Lt Gen Galido added that Philippine Army troops are being trained by US forces to use the Typhon system since April 2024.
Typhon was previously deployed by the US Army’s 1st Multi-Domain Task Force (1MDTF) in the Philippines as a part of Exercise ‘Salaknib 24′ in April 2024 from Northern Luzon. Janes reported at the time that the deployment was temporary and that Typhon would only be operated at ‘Salaknib 24′ and Exercise ‘Balikatan 24′, which concluded in May 2024.
(Source: Janes)

06 Jan 25. German army gets nod to buy Israeli PULS rocket launchers. The German army has received parliamentary approval to buy an initial batch of Elbit-made PULS rocket artillery systems, a decision that could see Berlin look to European munitions suppliers in the future. The move, announced just before the Christmas holidays as part of a larger raft of funding approvals for Germany’s armed forces, means the Bundeswehr can spend roughly €65 m, or $68 m USD, on five systems. The PULS pick, offered by Elbit in conjunction with German-French contractor KNDS, puts an end, for now, to a highly contested race for Germany’s next-generation, multiple-rocket launcher system. Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall had pitched a competing offer, named GMARS, that came with the lineup of Lockheed’s munitions offerings, including the ubiquitous Guided MLRS rockets, baked into it. In the end, the Lockheed-Rheinmetall offer wasn’t far enough along, a German Ministry of Defense spokesman told Defense News.
“A usable prototype was not available,” the spokesman said.
The decision in favor of PULS is meant to deepen cooperation between German artillery forces and those of the neighboring Netherlands, which has previously purchased the Israeli product and whose contract provides a piggybacking option for Germany’s impending buy.

“The Dutch army is deeply integrated into German army structures, and the use of a common weapon system will enable further cooperation,” the spokesman wrote in response to a reporter’s questions.
The PULS, which is short for Precise and Universal Launching System, allows for the deployment of a national fire-control system, thereby enabling user nations to pick their own munition types for integration, the spokesman added.

Whether that includes GMLRS rockets, donated by the United States to Ukraine and resident in the stocks of many NATO nations, remains an open question.
Military decision makers in Berlin are banking on a promise from Elbit that the weapons, in the Unitary variant, can be shot with the PULS fire-control software. But Washington’s political approval is also needed.

“Germany is in close coordination with the United States” to that end, the spokesman in Berlin said.
Last summer, Lockheed executive Howard Bromberg, vice president of strategy and business development for land forces, categorically denied that possibility.

“Our MLRS Family of Munitions cannot be integrated into the PULS system — if Germany was to opt for PULS they could not gain access to our missiles,” he told Defense News on the sidelines of the Eurosatory defense trade show in Paris.

The same would apply to the U.S. Army’s newer Precision Strike Missile, which boasts a range of 500 kilometers and more, according to the company.
It’s unclear how prominent the assured access to Lockheed rockets is in Germany’s long-term defense planning, as German and European manufacturers have adjusted to a surge in demand for munitions of all ranges and propulsion types, guided and unguided.
In September, Elbit and Germany’s Diehl Defence signed a cooperation agreement tailored to PULS users in Europe and Germany in particular. In addition, pan-European missile maker MBDA is jockeying for position in the emerging market of longer-range weapons, deemed a critical element of Europe’s deterrence posture vis-à-vis Russia. (Source: Defense News)

03 Jan 25. India issues RFI for C-UAV ammunition. The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued a request for information (RFI) to support its procurement of 23mm counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (C-UAV) ammunition for the Indian Army. The RFI, issued on 1 January, said the procured ammunition is intended to be fired from the ZU-23-2 semi-mobile anti-aircraft cannon system and the ZSU-23-4 ‘Schilka’ self-propelled anti-aircraft gun (SPAAG) in service with the army’s Corps of Army Air Defence.
The RFI is intended for Indian manufacturers, with at least 50% of the munitions’ components to be sourced locally. RFI submissions are expected by mid-February, but the RFI does not provide information on the number of rounds that will be procured.
According to the RFI, the procured ammunition should feature a timed fuze that is pre-programmable to detonate the projectiles at variable ranges including 1 km and 2.5 km. It added that the ammunition needs to conform to the “breech block, chamber, and barrel” of the ZU-23-2 and Schilka systems. The ammunition is required to be operable at temperatures ranging from -25°C to 45°C. The ZU-23-2 and ZSU-23-4 are Soviet-era weapons systems that use 23×152 B cartridges. According to the RFI, India possesses the high-explosive incendiary tracer (HEI-T) and armour-piercing incendiary tracer (API-T) variations of the 23×152 B cartridge. Both variations are capable of an effective range of 2,500 m horizontally and 1,500 m vertically, according to Janes Weapons: Ammunition. The variations weigh 190 g and have a maximum velocity of 970 m/s. (Source: Janes)

30 Dec 24. The Republic of Serbia has been significantly improved by equipping with the new FK-3 anti-aircraft missile system. By equipping the Air Force and Air Defence with the new FK-3 anti-aircraft missile system, the airspace control and protection system of the Republic of Serbia has been significantly improved. This missile shield of the Serbian skies, with its high manoeuvrability, consists of vehicles with a command centre, missile launchers and radars, and logistics vehicles.
In the 250th Missile Brigade for the Anti-Aircraft Defence Division armed with the FK-3 system, training is conducted daily, with monitoring and evaluation of the work of the services, which ensures a high level of combat readiness of the unit for the anti-aircraft defence of important facilities, forces of the Serbian Armed Forces, regions and directions in the territory from reconnaissance and airspace operations.
The commander of the missile battery, Captain First Class Stefan Mani?, emphasised that the FK-3 represents a milestone for the anti-aircraft defence system. “The system has exceptional measures to combat interference and combat missiles designed to destroy targeting radars. The FK-3 anti-aircraft missile system is distinguished by exceptional manoeuvring and spatial capabilities and as such is dominant among newer generation missile systems. It is equipped with sophisticated technologies. In addition to excellent manoeuvring and spatial capabilities, the system is distinguished by exceptional fire capabilities, as it can simultaneously engage six targets with twelve missiles,” said Captain Mani.
He emphasised that it is a great honour to be the commander of a missile battery for anti-aircraft operations and to work on the most powerful air defence missile system that our country has. He also added that training on the missile system was carried out in the People’s Republic of China and that the training process was complex. “Despite the challenges, all members of the unit were highly motivated and mastered all forms of training in order to independently implement the maintenance and use of the missile system,” added Captain Mani?.
The FK-3 anti-aircraft missile system can target various types of aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles and air-to-ground missiles flying at speeds of up to 1,000 m/s, at altitudes of up to 27 km and distances of up to 100 km. It is intended for the defence of political-administrative and economic facilities, units of the Serbian Armed Forces, regions and directions in the territory from reconnaissance and actions from the airspace. It is engaged in tasks of control and protection of the sovereignty of the airspace of Serbia. (Source: joint-forces.com)

03 Jan 25. US Army chooses BAE Systems for prototype base defense artillery cannon. The Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon will be focused on defense against unmanned and missile threats.
The US Army has chosen BAE Systems to prototype a new artillery cannon, envisioned to defend bases against a variety of threats including unmanned aerial systems, cruise missiles and other advanced air threats.
The system has been dubbed the Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon (MDAC) and Hypervelocity Projectile (HVP) prototype. The service announced the selection in a public Dec. 20 notice, which was sole-sourced to BAE, meaning the Pentagon did not hold a competition amongst private industry to determine its vendor.
The Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office “has a requirement to develop and deliver a full Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon System (MDACS) Battery no later than Q4FY27 followed by an operational demonstration in FY28,” according to the notice. “A full MDACS battery consists of eight Multi-Domain Artillery Cannons, four Multi-Function Precision Radars, two Multi-Domain Battle Managers, and separately, no less than 144 Hypervelocity Projectiles.”
The announcement did not include details about the amount of funding the contract would include, but Breaking Defense previously reported the Army was planning to spend $67m in fiscal 2025 to kick off its efforts before investing more heavily in future years. (The government is currently operating under a continuing resolution, with funding stuck at FY24 levels through at least March.)
“Throughout the developmental effort, soldier touchpoints will gather feedback for Army requirements generation and prototype maturation,” the service wrote in its budget justification documents. “MDACS will use the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) and conduct a series of flight tests culminating in a battery-level operational assessment in FY 2028.”
An assessment is expected in 2028 to determine the technology can be fielded, according to the service, which is increasingly prioritizing base defense as it preps for a potential conflict in the Pacific. (Source: Breaking Defense.com)

03 Jan 25. Denel upgrading Umkhonto missile. Denel is upgrading its Umkhonto surface-to-air missile (SAM) from the current Infra-Red (IR) Block II version to a more powerful weapon with better intercept capabilities. This will be good news for Denel’s customers, including the South African Navy (SAN), the Finnish Navy and the Algerian Navy, all of whom currently use the Umkhonto. Also, the SA Army is interested in the ground-based version to compliment its current Ground Based Air Defence System (GBADS).
Denel Project/Programme Manager Willem Maré explained to defenceWeb the system has a ground-based version, fired from Denel’s Ground Based Launcher or potentially in a missile silo. The original design was for the SA Navy’s Valour Class frigates as an advanced air defence system.
Upgrades will include extended range: a new rocket motor would extend range to 25 to 30 kilometres. Additionally, the IR seeker would be replaced by a radar seeker. The IR seeker can be affected by bad weather, which is especially relevant to the Finnish Navy, as infrared cannot see through clouds, but radar can. These upgrades will surely make the Umkhonto air defence missile more attractive to international clients, Denel believes.
Derived with assistance from the cancelled South African High Velocity missile programme, the Umkhonto surface-to-air missile was originally developed with a 12 km range but this was increased to 15 km and Denel has demonstrated it can reach out to 20 km, with a ceiling of 8 000 metres. It reaches speeds of around Mach 2.5. In 2013 Denel Dynamics for the first time fired the weapon from land – the system was originally developed for naval applications.
Once deployed, the 135 kg missile has a reaction time of 2.5 seconds and half-second intervals between missile launches. Umkhonto uses inertial navigation and mid-course guidance from the launch ship or from a land based radar and then switches to its dual-band thermal imaging seeker for a lock on after launch capability. The missile manoeuvres through tail-mounted control fins and thrust vectoring vanes in the motor nozzle.
The Umkhonto uses a proximity fuse to detonate its fragmentation warhead of 23 kilograms (the biggest warhead of its class). This warhead contains 4 800 titanium blocks. This gives the missile 95 plus percent kill probability, according to Maré. “It was tested at 10 metres; the penetration of one or two of the titanium blocks was through 11 mm of steel plate.”
Although it is primarily an anti-missile and anti-aircraft system, the pre-fragmented warhead makes it effective against surface targets like ships as well.
The vertically launched Umkhonto missile is installed aboard the SA Navy’s four Valour class frigates and is also in service with the Finnish navy aboard its Hamina fast attack craft and Hameenmaaa class minelayers and the Algerian Navy’s Meko A200 class frigates. It was due to be integrated into the South African Army’s Ground Based Air Defence System. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
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MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

January 3, 2025 by

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02 Jan 25. Estonian anti-drone mini missile to be tested in Ukraine. An Estonian tech startup has developed a miniature missile designed to counter low-flying drones that it plans to test in Ukraine this month, as Russian drone attacks continue to cause havoc across the war-torn country. The Estonia-based company Frankenburg Technologies announced in December that it will conduct the first trial of its Mark 1 anti-aircraft missile in early 2025 in an unspecified location in Ukraine.

The missile is intended to be more affordable than existing counter-drone missiles, and it is designed to use artificial-intelligence software for targeting incoming threats, according to the manufacturer.

The company’s objective is to create missile systems that are “ten times more affordable, a hundred times faster to produce” than current industry outputs, per its website.

Frankenburg Technologies’ chief executive Kusti Salm, who previously served as a top official in the Estonian Ministry of Defense, said in an interview with Janes that the missile will be able to counter drones flying at altitudes of up to 2 kilometers, or 1.2 miles.

Ukrainian defense analysts have noted that the attack profile of Iranian-made Shahed drones has evolved in recent months, where they are now often reported to fly at low heights ranging between two to five kilometers to avoid being struck by ground defenses.

The Estonian company has offices in Latvia, Lithuania and Ukraine and will soon open another in the United Kingdom, the British government announced on Dec. 16.

“The rapidly growing company already collaborates closely with the British defense industry, sourcing a significant portion of its subsystems locally, and it will invest €50m ($52m) into the U.K. for research and development into low-cost rocket motors,” the British prime minister’s office said in a statement.

The Ukrainian military has largely relied on a mesh network of electronic-warfare sensors, jammers and small arms to shoot down drones at close ranges. However, these options remain last-defense resorts and are not always effective.

Other companies have offered similar concepts of small and relatively inexpensive drones, including the Lockheed Martin-made miniature hit-to-kill missiles, a small short-range air defense system able to destroy rockets and artillery, as well as MBDA’s small anti-drone missile.

(Source: Defense News)

27 Dec 24. Raytheon and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, with support from the Ministry of Defense (MoD) and the Norwegian Armed Forces, successfully completed a flight test of an upgraded variant of the AMRAAM-Extended Range missile from a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). The successful flight test demonstrates the increased capabilities of the upgraded AMRAAM-ER. This latest variant of the AMRAAM-ER is a new configuration that incorporates the AIM-120 C-8 guidance section, along with a more robust 10-inch (254mm) rocket motor from Nammo and a 10-inch control actuator system from Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, a brand of Norwegian Propulsion Stack, for which the Norwegian Ministry of Defense has been a collaborative partner.

«Integrating this new technology into the AMRAAM-ER ensures the advanced capabilities of the surface-launched munition for many years to come,» said Paul Ferraro, president of Air & Space Defense Systems at Raytheon. «Agile software upgrades will continue to advance AMRAAM to stay ahead of evolving threats.»

The testing included a test firing, during which the missile flew a preprogramed flight path to verify safe egress from the NASAMS launcher and missile performance. (Source: Google/https://www.aviacionline.com/)

02 Jan 25. Japan, US discuss feasibility of co-producing AIM-120 missiles. Tokyo and Washington are working to launch a study to assess the feasibility of co-producing AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles (AMRAAM) within Japan.

Discussions on opening a production line for the missiles in Japan have been ongoing since mid-2024, due to an increase in demand for the missiles in both Japan and the United States, Janes has previously reported.

A spokesperson for Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) told Janes on 26 December 2024 that the feasibility study will consider various aspects of production. This includes “necessary cost, preparation time, contents of possible production activity, and challenges” that could arise when production is initiated, according to the spokesperson.

However, ATLA could not specify when the study will start. According to the spokesperson, the Japan Ministry of Defense (MoD) is currently “working closely” with the US Department of Defense (DoD) to initiate the study. “In order to initiate the study, it is necessary to obtain support from DoD as well as industry including the RTX Corporation, a US-based AMRAAM manufacturer,” the ATLA spokesperson said.

The “duration of the study has not yet been determined”, the ATLA spokesperson added.

Co-production of the AIM-120 missile was the subject of discussions at the third Defense Industrial Cooperation, Acquisition, and Sustainment (DICAS) Forum, held on 11 December 2024.

(Source: Janes)

30 Dec 24. U.S. Navy declares Full Operational Capability for Strategic Weapons Systems Ashore facility. The United States Navy has reached a significant milestone in its nuclear modernisation programme with the validation of Final Operating Capability (FOC) for the Strategic Weapons Systems Ashore (SWS Ashore) facility. Announced on 26 November, this achievement underscores years of dedicated collaboration between the Navy, industry, and local Florida partners. Located at the Naval Ordnance Test Unit on Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, SWS Ashore is a cutting-edge facility designed to test updates and enhancements to the Trident II D5 Strategic Weapon System (SWS) and related support systems. By offering a land-based platform, it allows comprehensive testing prior to fleet deployment, significantly de-risking integration efforts for the upcoming Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs).

“Achieving full operational capability for SWS Ashore is a testament to the hard work and cooperation of multiple teams over more than a decade,” stated Captain Jason Schneider, NOTU Commanding Officer. The facility, which broke ground in November 2012, reflects the Navy’s commitment to advancing strategic deterrence capabilities while managing cost and risk.

Since becoming operational in 2019, SWS Ashore has met its original objectives. These include transferring lessons from the Ohio-class SSBN programme to the Columbia-class, supporting the U.K.’s Dreadnought-class initiatives, and establishing a robust end-to-end testing and training facility. “SWS Ashore is a true success story of proactive planning and risk management,” added Steven Van Dyk, Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) Chief Engineer. The Trident II D5LE SWS, currently deployed on Ohio-class submarines, will also equip the Columbia-class fleet as they join service throughout the 2030s. The facility’s advanced testing capabilities pave the way for the next-generation Trident II D5LE2 system, ensuring seamless integration into future submarines and bolstering the Navy’s top acquisition priorities.

In addition to its impact on U.S. defence readiness, SWS Ashore also supports international partnerships. The facility plays a critical role in U.K. efforts to develop the Dreadnought-class SSBNs, leveraging the shared missile compartment design to align U.S. and U.K. testing and training programmes. “The ability to maintain synchronised schedules between the two programmes reduces costs and enhances efficiency,” explained Van Dyk. Local collaboration has been vital to the success of SWS Ashore. Space Florida, a state public corporation, partnered with the Navy to repurpose an old missile launch site into this state-of-the-art testing hub. “The Space Coast community has been an outstanding partner, creating an environment conducive to innovation and progress,” noted Matt Vilk, SWS Ashore Programme Manager. The facility exemplifies the Navy’s focus on strategic deterrence, which remains a cornerstone of U.S. national security policy. The Trident II D5LE SWS, as part of the nuclear triad, contributes significantly to the nation’s ability to deter threats, accounting for approximately 70 per cent of deployed strategic nuclear deterrent forces. As the Columbia-class submarines prepare to enter service, SWS Ashore will continue to be a linchpin in ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of the Navy’s sea-based strategic deterrent. (Source: Google/https://defence-industry.eu/u-s-navy-declares-full-operational-capability-for-strategic-weapons-systems-ashore-facility/)

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24 Dec 24. Munitions planning informed by operational analysis. Dstl’s expert analysis helps the MOD make the right strategic choices when planning UK munition stockpiles and investment. The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) generates evidence essential to shaping the UK armed forces’ munitions requirements. This evidence has also helped identify priorities for investment. Dstl’s analysis calculated both the types and quantities of munitions that needed to be procured. This allows Ministry of Defence (MOD) decision-makers to make the right strategic choices, for both immediate and long-term challenges. The MOD’s 10-year plan focused on vital high-tech capabilities which include air defence missiles and anti-armour munitions.

Informing investment and growth

MOD’s plan continued investment in UK-built 155mm artillery ammunition. Heavy artillery systems (such as Archer and AS90) fire 155mm shells, and provide an effective mix of range and destructive power. Investment in 155mm artillery ammunition with BAE Systems, which will deliver an eight-fold increase in production capability, enabled BAE Systems to invest in new and expanded facilities at Glascoed in South Wales, and Washington in Tyne and Wear. This will create more than 100 new jobs. The UK and NATO nations have provided ms of rounds of ammunition and game-changing equipment to Ukrainian armed forces in their fight against Russia’s illegal invasion. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

28 Dec 24. American startup Venus Aerospace achieves breakthrough in hypersonic engine technology. Venus Aerospace, a leading American deep-tech startup specialising in hypersonic flight, has announced a significant milestone with the successful ignition of its VDR2 engine. This marks the first successful test of a Rocket-Based Combined Cycle (RBCC) engine, capable of transitioning from Mach 0 to Mach 6. Unveiled at the UP.Summit in October, the VDR2 engine combines the power and efficiency of a Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine (RDRE) with the high-speed cruising capability of a Ramjet. Developed in collaboration with Velontra, the engine demonstrates a revolutionary ability to start a Ramjet at takeoff speeds, bypassing the conventional limitation of requiring speeds of Mach 3.5 for ignition. The company now plans to conduct ground tests of the VDR2 Block 0 flight engine, designed to operate from takeoff to Mach 4+ without moving parts. This groundbreaking engine will power Venus Aerospace’s hypersonic flight test drone, set for its inaugural flight in 2025. Founded in 2020, Venus Aerospace has already advanced RDRE technology from concept to a 2,000 lbf demonstration flight engine. RDREs enhance engine efficiency by using supersonic combustion, which adds pressure during the combustion process rather than relying solely on heat. Venus Aerospace achieved another milestone in February 2024 by flying a supersonic-capable drone, with the first flight of an RDRE-powered drone scheduled for early 2025. With $70 m in venture funding, Venus is at the forefront of developing reusable high-speed technologies for aviation, defence, and beyond. (Source: Google/https://defence-industry.eu/american-startup-venus-aerospace-achieves-breakthrough-in-hypersonic-engine-technology/)

20 Dec 24. Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) announced a series of successful static fire tests of a new 21-inch second-stage solid rocket motor (SRM) in support of the U.S. Navy’s future extended-range capability needs. Performed at the advanced propulsion production facility in Elkton, Maryland, the tests underscore the company’s commitment to delivering innovative advanced propulsion solutions for our customers’ most critical missions.

The SRM fulfills the U.S. Navy’s request for a low-risk, rapidly developed solid rocket motor solution to enable fielding of an extended-range, hypersonic capability to the Navy.
The rapidly developed, high-performance 21” motor also has the capability to significantly extend range and speed in multiple missions across multiple platforms, including air warfare, surface warfare, land strike and ballistic missile defense.

Gordon LoPresti, senior director, propulsion systems and control, Northrop Grumman: “Northrop Grumman’s newest solid rocket motor demonstrates our continued leadership in rapid, next-generation capability development. The SRM test fires were successfully accomplished in less than a year, from design to demonstration, and give us a unique, affordable, versatile extended-range capability to help the U.S. Navy deter and defeat air, surface and land threats.”

As the nation’s preeminent propulsion provider, Northrop Grumman is investing in facilities, capacity and technologies to produce effective advanced weapons and solid rocket motors affordably at scale. To meet growing demand from customers, Northrop Grumman has invested to build capacity and capability for weapons and missile components, including solid rocket motors. With over six decades of proven performance – and more than one m solid rocket motors delivered – Northrop Grumman is a trusted provider of large, medium and small SRMs and advanced propulsion systems that deter and defend against threats, deliver payloads and enable discovery in space.

19 Dec 24. Raytheon, Ursa Major test long-range rocket motor for US Army. The technical strategy employed by both companies integrates cost-effective components to produce a new class of munitions. RTX’s Raytheon, in partnership with US company Ursa Major, has completed a missile flight test using their advanced long-range solid rocket motor for the US Army. The collaboration’s expertise in digital engineering contributed to the expedited design and development process for this new capability. The strategic approach taken by Raytheon and Ursa Major integrates novel, cost-effective component technologies to produce advanced smart munitions for the US Army that are poised to be more economical than existing systems. Raytheon has integrated Ursa Major’s propulsion innovations as a central component to furnish the US Army with cost-efficient solutions for extended-range operations.

Ursa Major CEO Dan Jablonsky said: “The Ursa Major team has utilised additive manufacturing to complete motor development, manufacturing, and testing in unprecedented timelines, resulting in nearly 300 static test fires this year. The innovative manufacturing techniques we employ are yielding agile solid rocket motor solutions with the design flexibility needed to expand the capabilities of the US military. Ursa Major is poised to scale the production of higher-performing solid rocket motors at the pace and volume the country requires and at a price the country can afford.”

The forthcoming stage involves Raytheon and Ursa Major enhancing manufacturing processes, aiming for further flight tests in 2025 and aiming for qualification by 2026.

Raytheon Land and Air Defense Systems president Tom Laliberty said: “These long-range solid rocket motors will allow the US Army and allies to strike farther and faster than anything our adversaries have in their arsenals.

“This long-range rocket motor technology fills the essential role of providing affordable precision fires, while increasing range, safety, and magazine depth.”

In 2023, RTX Ventures made strategic investments in Ursa Major to further research into rocket motor technologies, addressing a critical national defence need. Raytheon’s partnership with Ursa Major is geared towards meeting the immediate demand from the US Army for economically viable precision-guided munitions. This is being pursued through dedicated funding in rocket motor advancement and rigorous testing to confirm the stability and sophistication of the design. Earlier in the month, RTX’s BBN Technologies was selected by the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to develop a prototype photonic chip for the Intensity Squeezed Photonic Integration with Revolutionary Detection (INSPIRED) programme. Launched in 2023, the INSPIRED programme seeks to create optoelectronic detectors that use squeezed-light techniques to achieve sensitivity surpassing the quantum shot-noise limit. (Source: army-technology.com)

20 Dec 24. Warheads in Phoenix Ghost Kamikaze Drones Revealed. With its previously highly secretive Phoenix Ghost family of kamikaze drones now having emerged fully into the light, AEVEX Aerospace has been more openly discussing their capabilities. One especially interesting detail has now emerged: the different Phoenix Ghost types can be configured to launch attacks straight down while passing overhead, akin to an air-bursting artillery shell, rather than having to careen into their targets and detonate. The top-down attack capability was a particular highlight of a Phoenix Ghost promotional video AEVEX released earlier this month, seen below. The footage was captured during Northern Strike 24-2, a joint-service exercise the Michigan National Guard led this past summer that included a variety of air, ground, and maritime components, including JSX-2 microjets masquerading as cruise missiles and drones. AEVEX had offered its first official details about the Phoenix Ghost family, originally developed as part of an effort under the Air Force’s Big Safari special projects office and then rushed to Ukraine in the wake of Russia’s invasion in 2022, last month. Information about the drones, or even what they looked like, had been extremely closely guarded before then. AEVEX brought three types of Phoenix Ghost drones – the Dagger, Dominator, and Disruptor – to Northern Strike 24-2. There is evidence of all three of these types being in service in Ukraine. At least one other member of the family, the Atlas, is known to exist, but it is unclear if Ukrainian forces have received them in addition to the other types.

“The Dagger is actually one of our earliest designs,” a member of AEVEX says in the video. “So, 55 pounds with a little bit of a smaller warhead and really going about 100-150 kilometers [range-wise]. … a small unit can operate it and make a difference on the battle space in specific tactical scenarios. The Disruptor is really a simple design with a lot of capability,” he adds. “So, it’s a simple design in terms of manufacturing. It’s also a simple design in terms of operations. So, very easy to put together out in the field, but still with – now you’re talking about 50 pounds payload to be able to carry that again, five to six hours [in terms of endurance]. So, still packs quite a punch.”

In terms of “punch,” the AEVEX video shows all three designs conducting top-down attacks using blast fragmentation warheads that shower their targets in deadly shrapnel. Pictures, seen in the social media post below, that recently emerged of the remains of Disruptor launched by Ukrainian forces show the warhead section in that drone featured a pre-scored ‘sleeve’ designed to break into fragments after detonation. Top-down air-bursting attacks offer significant benefits over a point-detonating design, especially when it comes to engaging personnel or unarmored targets in trenches or otherwise behind cover. They can be very effective against various targets out in the open, including aircraft and air defense systems, and soft-skinned vehicles, and offer more of an area effect, in general. It was not obvious initially, but the earlier AEVEX promotional video seen below contains additional views of the Phoenix Ghost family’s top-down attack profile. Whether other warhead types, such as ones with greater anti-armor capability, are available for the Phoenix Ghost family or might be in development is unknown, but would also fit well with the top-down mode of attack. The tops of tanks and other armored vehicles are typically where they are most vulnerable. The growing specter of top-down attacks, including by drones and specially designed anti-tank guided missiles, is already having impacts on the design of new defensive capabilities for armored vehicles. Earlier this year, Israeli defense contractor Rafael unveiled a new version of its combat-proven Trophy active protection system (APS) with features to help defeat threats from above.

“We haven’t really gotten into anti-tank or anti-armor, just because it’s not been a requirement for us,” Elizabeth Trammell, senior director of business development at AEVEX, did tell TWZ at AUSA back in October. “A lot of our aircraft, we had the base capability and then our customers came in and said, ‘This is what we want.’”

It is still not clear exactly how Phoenix Ghost drones know where and when to detonate their warheads, if they can engage moving targets, or if they can execute attacks in other modes. “AEVEX loitering munitions automatically detect, identify, locate, report (DILR) and deliver lethal and non-lethal effects against threats across multiple scenarios and domains with unprecedented accuracy and speed” and are able to “navigate, make decisions, and complete missions without direct intervention,” according to the company’s website. As already noted, Daggers and Disruptors have clearly been employed in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and Dominators look to be in use, too. With the details that have emerged so far, experts and observers now know what to look for and have also gone back and identified imagery of many previously unknown drones as members of the Phoenix Ghost family. (Source: UAS VISION/The War Zone)

19 Dec 24. Czech arms group CSG plans to boost Kinetic’s military ammo sales.

Summary
Aims to use experience with military customers
CSG looks to expand Kinetic sales in Europe
CSG revenues jumped 129% in first nine months

Czechoslovak Group (CSG) will seek higher military sales at U.S. small-calibre ammunition maker Kinetic after completing a $2.2 bn takeover last month, a board member told Reuters.

CSG, owned by Czech bnaire Michal Strnad, has grown fast as militaries in NATO countries, Ukraine and elsewhere buy more artillery ammunition, artillery and rocket-launcher systems, trucks, refurbished tanks, as well as hi-tech equipment.

$2.52bn on the back of soaring demand, bought Kinetic from Vista Outdoor in an all-cash deal in November.

The acquisition boosts CSG’s small-calibre ammunition business with brands including Federal, Remington, Speer and HEVI-Shot. It also delivers about $1.5 bn in annual sales and more than $416 m in earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation in the fiscal 2024, CSG said. (Source: Reuters)

16 Dec 24. Upgrading Riot Armor with NovaSteel Plates. Adept Armor explores the challenges associated with conventional riot armor, and explains the benefits of the NovaSteel Breastplate and shoulder armor plates for enhanced protection. Adept Armor designed and developed the NovaSteel Breastplate and shoulder armor plates to provide an advanced solution to non-bulletproof riot armor. Currently, there is reportedly no NIJ standard for riot armor. The NIJ standard for riot helmets, 0104.02, only requires helmets to undergo low-velocity impact testing, similar to how cycling helmets and bump helmets are evaluated. ASTM provides a comparable specification for riot helmets, ASTM E3342, which is more comprehensive and more recently updated than the NIJ standard. However, like the NIJ specification, it does not mandate protection against ballistic or bladed threats. In practice, riot gear is generally designed to protect against blunt force impacts rather than projectiles or sharp objects, and no universal standards exist for riot armor. This limitation is not unique to the United States; it applies globally. A few international standards for riot helmets exist, but these are broadly similar to the NIJ and ASTM specifications in that they lack ballistic protection requirements. Riot armor, in particular, has no standardized specifications worldwide. As a result, most riot armor is lightweight and provides limited protection, often sufficient only for thrown objects or simple blunt weapons like sticks. Despite its bulky appearance, which can contribute to an intimidating presence, riot armor’s actual protective capabilities are limited.

What Materials Are Used in Riot Armor?

The material composition of riot armor is key to its performance. An average riot armor breastplate typically includes a 1.5mm to 2.5mm layer of soft plastic, such as HDPE, ABS, or polycarbonate. Beneath this plastic layer is usually a foam layer, ranging from 6mm to 40mm in thickness. While these materials are bulky, they offer minimal resistance to bladed weapons. For comparison, the thinnest polycarbonate stab vests rated to ‘Knife 1,’ the lowest level of bladed weapon resistance, use a polycarbonate thickness of 5mm—significantly thicker than the plastic in most riot armor breastplates. The ballistic resistance of these materials is even lower. Even if the materials were five times thicker, they would still fail to stop a .38 Special round fired from a snub-nose revolver. As a result, many police officers in the U.S. wear soft ballistic panels beneath their riot gear, while European officers often rely on stab armor or, in rare cases, chainmail. These additions increase the weight and heat retention of riot gear, making it uncomfortable for long durations.

Adept Armor’s NovaSteel Plates

Adept Armor developed the NovaSteel Breastplate and shoulder armor plates to address these challenges. These plates are versatile, providing top-level protection against handgun threats, bladed weapons, spikes, and blunt impact weapons. They meet and exceed NIJ IIIA and ‘Knife 3’ standards and are compatible with riot armor arm and leg protections. Built-in air channels enhance breathability, and the breastplate can be further upgraded to Level III/RF1 protection using a 1.8-pound rigid armor plate. This approach eliminates the need for layering or compromise, delivering riot armor that goes beyond intimidation and offers genuine protection and confidence. (Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)

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MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

December 19, 2024 by

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18 Dec 24. French Navy completes first F21 heavyweight torpedo live firing. A French Navy nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) has completed a first live firing of the F21 heavyweight torpedo. Announced by the Marine Nationale on 17 December, the test saw a single F21 warshot break the back of the decommissioned D’Estienne d’Orves-class aviso Premier-Maître L’Her. Developed by Naval Group under the Artémis programme, the F21 has replaced the F17 Mod 2 heavyweight torpedo in French Navy service. As well as equipping Le Triomphant-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, Rubis-class SSNs, and new Suffren-class SSNs, the weapon will also arm the future SNLE 3G deterrent submarines. Naval Group began F21 deliveries to the French Navy in late 2019, with its current production contract with the Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA) covering just under 100 torpedoes. While the weapon has been the subject of over 100 in-water firings, it had not previously been the subject of a live end-to-end test. The warshot firing was conducted in the Atlantic on 14 December and, according to the French Navy, was performed in what it described as “close to operational conditions”. The identity of the SSN involved was not released. (Source: Janes)

17 Dec 24. DOD Reissues Nuclear Weapons Systems Surety Program Standards. The Department of Defense (DoD) released today, the reissuance of DoD Instruction 3150.02, “DoD Nuclear Weapons Systems Surety Program.” The reissuance is an important update to the Department’s four nuclear surety standards, to elevate and integrate nuclear weapon system risk management processes for surety and cybersecurity, and ensure U.S. nuclear weapons are safe, secure, and under positive control.

“The current DoD nuclear surety standards have not substantively changed since they were developed in 1960. Our community took ownership and updated our surety standards to protect our enterprise,” said Ms. Deborah Rosenblum, performing the duties of deputy undersecretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment.

Nuclear surety provides clearer insight and awareness of operational risks across a systems’ lifecycle and the stakeholder community. As we modernize our legacy Cold War-era nuclear weapon systems, we are increasingly relying on digital technologies. The update ensures DoD’s nuclear surety standards are modernized to account for digital threats and ensures the continued success and applicability of the standards to meet both current and future threats to the nuclear enterprise.

The technological shift poses significant benefits to the predictability and reliability of information processing and decision-making processes; however, the shift also presents the significant risk(s) of potentially introducing cyber-related and other technology-based vulnerabilities.

Nuclear surety is a shared responsibility between the DoD and Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). Overlaps in responsibility exist between DoD and NNSA, thus requiring considerable coordination between the two regarding surety issues.

“It is our shared responsibility as members of the nuclear surety community to ensure our standards have evolved to address growing digital threats. I thank our partners with NNSA for helping ensure our nuclear weapons are safe, secure, and reliable,” Ms. Rosenblum said.

The Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Defense Programs (OASD(NCB)) leads DoD efforts to ensure a safe, secure, and effective U.S. nuclear deterrent. As the world returns to Great Power competition and the recognition that threats against the United States, its allies, and its interests are both proliferating and becoming more difficult to challenge, OASD(NCB) is at the forefront of U.S. efforts to sustain and modernize the nuclear deterrent. From the operational, to the administrative, to the speed of response and production, OASD(NCB) is reshaping the way DoD meets and responds to weapons of mass destruction threats. (Source: U.S. DoD)

17 Dec 24. Lockheed Martin, Thales test GMLRS warheads in Australia. Lockheed Martin Australia (LMA) and Thales Australia have tested Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) warheads at the Thales-operated Mulwala munitions facility in New South Wales.

LMA said on 13 December that the test detonations featured four locally designed warheads. It added, “The warhead tests saw the use of a range of new materials and manufacturing techniques and the comparative testing of multiple designs, which will serve as the foundation for future developments.”

LMA added that the tests were part of an internal research and development project aiming to provide options for guided weapons production capability from 2025.

Thales Australia’s key account manager for Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Duncan Watt said, “This successful demonstration of a GMLRS-relevant high-explosive warhead underscores the accelerated progress achieved through our collaborative teaming agreement with Lockheed Martin.”

Under this LMA-Thales Australia teaming agreement – signed in September 2024 – the two companies agreed to develop solid-fuel rocket motors (SRMs) and warheads for the GMLRS.

The agreement is aligned with the Australian Department of Defence’s (DoD’s) GWEO Enterprise, a programme that prioritises long-range strike capability and domestic weapons manufacturing. Both companies are classified by the DoD as GWEO strategic partners.

In January 2024 LMA was awarded a AUD37.4 m (USD25.1 m) contract by the DoD to manufacture GMLRS missiles at the Defence Establishment Orchard Hills in western Sydney. Initial GMLRS missiles are expected to be rolled out and test-fired from 2025. (Source: Janes)

18 Dec 24. V Corps boosts combat readiness with HIMARS in Europe. The move consolidates two rocket artillery systems, amplifying the Corps’ capabilities within the European theatre. The US Army’s V Corps has enhanced its combat readiness in Europe by deploying the 3rd Battalion, 321st Field Artillery Regiment (3-321 FAR) to Grafenwoehr, Germany on a rotational basis. The unit, equipped with the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), joined the 41st Field Artillery Brigade, which operates the M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) and is permanently stationed in Grafenwoehr. This move consolidates two rocket artillery systems, amplifying the V Corps’ capabilities within the European theatre. The 3-321 FAR’s HIMARS units offer a more mobile and flexible option compared to the heavier MLRS, with the added advantage of being transportable by C-130 aircraft. The integration of HIMARS into V Corps’ operations increases mobility as well as demonstrates the Corps’ capacity to swiftly augment its firepower with rotational forces. This deployment also serves to strengthen ties with NATO allies through joint training exercises and live-fire operations. The 3-321 FAR is set to engage in numerous manoeuvres across Europe, including Thunderbolt Convergence in March, where their rapid deployment capabilities will be demonstrated in concert with the Belgian military. The 41st Field Artillery Brigade commander Frank Maxwell said: “The HIMARS’ mobility allows us to reposition quickly in response to dynamic combat situations. It’s a game-changer for us.

“While our M270 systems are highly effective, the HIMARS allows us to extend our reach and increase our operational tempo.”

The European HIMARS initiative, a US-led effort within NATO, benefits from exercises such as Thunderbolt Convergence.

The initiative aims to boost alliance-wide proficiency and cooperation in rocket artillery operations, focusing on HIMARS systems.

The 3-321 FAR plays a role in this initiative as the lead element of Task Force Voit in Estonia.

It also reinforces the combat credibility of V Corps and affirms the US Army’s resolve in ensuring security and deterrence throughout the region.

3-321 FAR operations officer major David Nixon said: “We have a platoon that is forward-deployed to Estonia called Task Force Voit, assisting and training the Estonian military as they receive the HIMARS later this summer.

“Our battalion here in Germany is also training in partnership with Lithuania, who is the next Baltic nation to receive HIMARS. We are training to help prepare them to receive their launchers in 2027.”

In June 2024, the US Department of Defense announced that Lockheed Martin will manufacture more HIMARS under a $2bn contract modification. (Source: army-technology.com)

17 Dec 24. Estonian company Frankenburg Technologies is planning to open a new office in London initially employing upwards of 50 people, in a boost for the UK defence sector. Specialising in the manufacture of low-cost air defence missiles, the rapidly growing company already collaborates closely with the UK defence industry, sourcing a significant portion of its subsystems locally. The Prime Minister will meet the founder of the business, Taavi Madiberk, as part of a business breakfast in Tallinn tomorrow morning [17 December 2024]. Delivering on his Plan for Change to boost jobs across the UK and put money back in the pockets of hardworking people, the Prime Minister will meet business leaders from major Estonian players and market disruptors, including Bolt, Nortal, Starship Technologies, Cachet, Skeleton Tech, Frankenburg Technologies, Salv, LHV Group, Pipedrive and Veriff. Frankenburg Technologies, which already has a footprint in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Ukraine, will invest €50 m into the UK for research and development into low-cost rocket motors. It comes after the Business Secretary last week held a roundtable as part of this Government’s ‘pro-growth, pro-business’ approach to realise the economic potential of the defence sector and change perceptions of it among investors – which is essential to kickstarting economic growth and provide greater investment across the UK. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

17 Dec 24. Hanwha Aerospace today announced it has shipped a fresh batch of four K9 Self-Propelled Howitzers and eight K10 Ammunition Resupply Vehicles to Norway, a key commitment to supporting the Norwegian defence capability.

The shipment is a part of a 2022 contract to supply more K9 VIDAR(Versatile Indirect Artillery) and K10 systems following the successful implementation of the first contract for 24 K9s and six K10s signed in 2017.

The artillery systems are expected to arrive in Norway in about two months for the delivery to the Norwegian Armed Forces after undergoing inspections.

“This shipment of K9 and K10 systems is a key milestone for strengthening cooperation between Hanwha and Norway, as we’re fully committed to producing and delivering the products meeting the Norwegian requirements on time.” said Kim Dong-hyun, head of the Land Systems Business Group at Hanwha Aerospace. He added “Hanwha will devote its efforts to complete this contract and further-contribute to enhancing Norway’s defence posture.”

Norway is a key pillar of the K9 User Club, a strategic venue for the countries operating the K9 systems to share their knowledge, experience and know-how on the operation, maintenance and training of the K9 system.

Since 2001, the K9 has been ordered by nine countries – Turkey, India, Poland, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Australia, Egypt and Romania – with about 1,800 K9 vehicles being in service around the globe.

The 155mm/52-calibre K9 Thunder is the world’s most proven tracked self-propelled system that can deliver consistent, accurate, rapid effects at above 40km range with high rates and volumes of fire. The 47-ton K9 is optimized for ‘Shoot and Scoot’ capability to fire multiple rounds and immediately move to a different location in order to avoid counter-fire.

The K10 is the world’s first automatic ammunition resupply vehicle based on the chassis of K9 howitzer, sharing most of the components and characteristics for logistics support.

The vehicle can support the K9 by carrying and resupplying 104 shells of 155mm artillery ammunition and 504 units of charges under contested conditions. The fully automated ammunition resupply system ensures efficiency in logistics support and tactical movements in any severe battlefield condition.

16 Dec 24. Hanwha Aerospace to supply artillery propellant charges for Swedish Army’s Archer howitzers. The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has signed an agreement with South Korean defence solutions provider Hanwha Aerospace. The contract ensures the delivery of propellant charges for Sweden’s Archer artillery system, addressing an immediate need for the Swedish Armed Forces. Propellant charges are a critical component of artillery ammunition, containing the explosive material required to launch shells from the Archer system. Since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, such charges have been in short supply on the global market for artillery ammunition.

“While we are working on long-term solutions for secure supply chains with our neighbouring countries, Hanwha’s propellant charges will meet the immediate needs of the Swedish Armed Forces,” said Olle Oswald, Strategic Buyer at FMV. (Source: Google/https://defence-industry.eu/)

13 Dec 24. The Solution Space Review (SSR) meetings, between the consortium coordinator (MBDA) the Participating States (DE, FR, IT and NL) and OCCAR, took place to conclude this first programme milestone. Since the contracts’ signatures on the 15th of May 2024, the ramp-up phase was dedicated to settle the initial set of threat scenarios, concepts and interception strategies, while collecting the Participating States’ customer needs, missions and establishing a Concept of Operations. Under the coordination of MBDA, the reference aeronautical institutions (TNO, ONERA and CIRA) have initiated the definition of threats set with associated performance levels. By way of four dedicated workshops, MBDA has captured the Participating States’ Weapon System constraints, interfaces and roadmaps, including external early warning and tracking sensors layers.

In parallel, the Industrial Consortium has identified and assessed different possible concepts and variants of hypersonic threats interceptors, named Solution Space, structured around two interception strategies: in-dive or in-glide. For each concept, a high-level weapon system functional and physical architecture was defined with specific highlights on aerodynamics, propulsion, airframe design, target acquisition and tracking, engagement planning, trajectory optimisation and terminal phase segment.

Based on the evaluation criteria converged between HYDIS Participating States, such as the effector performance against the threat set, the weapon system resilience, the launching platform integrability or the affordability and weapon system in service date, the Industry coordinator managed to prioritise the different possible interceptor’s concepts architectures.

The validation of this important milestone now enables the HYDIS programme to enter into the next phase of the funnel approach, where deeper technological maturations of the Solution Space will be performed that will enable progressively to discard the least promising architectures.

¤ The European Hypersonic Defence Interceptor System (HYDIS) is a project co-funded by the European Union, under the European Defence Fund, and by four Participating States (PSs) which are France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands. OCCAR has been entrusted by the European Commission (EC) for the indirect management of the action by the signature of a Contribution Agreement. OCCAR, as Contracting Authority, has concluded a contract with the HYDIS consortium to implement the programme, on behalf of EU and the Member States. Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the European Commission can be held responsible for them. (Source: joint-forces.com)

13 Dec 24. US Army, Navy conduct key hypersonic missile test. The Army and Navy on Thursday completed a successful all-up round test of the Common Hypersonic Glide Body, potentially paving the way for the services to begin fielding the long-awaited system.

The glide body was developed jointly between the two services. The Army plans to integrate its version of the system, the Long Range Hypersonic Weapon, into a mobile ground platform. The Navy will integrate its version, dubbed Conventional Prompt Strike, into a ship-launched capability.

“This test builds on several flight tests in which the Common Hypersonic Glide Body achieved hypersonic speed at target distances and demonstrates that we can put this capability in the hands of the warfighter,” Army Secretary Christine Wormuth said in a Pentagon statement.

The launch took place at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The Defense Department did not offer further details about the event, which represents the glide body’s second successful all-up round test this year.

Hypersonic systems can fly and maneuver at five times the speed of sound — and the Pentagon has been trying to field them for decades. The Army had planned to make a LRHW fielding decision by the end of fiscal 2023, but delayed that milestone after several aborted tests last year. The service now plans to make a fielding decision next year.

Doug Bush, the Army’s acquisition executive, told reporters this earlier this year that the all-up round test is critical to making sure the system is “safe and effective” and ready to field.

The Navy, meanwhile, plans to start fielding Conventional Prompt Strike on its Zumwalt-class destroyer in FY25 and its Virginia-class submarine in FY29.

Leidos is the prime contractor for the Common Hypersonic Glide Body, and Lockheed Martin is the prime contractor for both LRHW and the Navy’s Conventional Prompt Strike program. (Source: Defense News)

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12 Dec 24. Kongsberg tests Australian-made NSM launcher. Kongsberg Defence Australia has test-fired for the first time a Naval Strike Missile (NSM) blast test vehicle (BTV) from an Australian-built NSM launcher. The company said on 11 December that the test was performed in line with its commitment to deliver NSMs to the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) under the Project Sea 1300 Phase 1 (Navy Guided Weapons) programme. The test was undertaken at the government’s Proof and Experimental Establishment at Port Wakefield in South Australia. The BTV comprises an NSM booster rocket motor and a dummy missile and is used to test the full launcher functionality in a live-firing event. Kongsberg said the firing comprised the “final element” of the first-of-type testing of an Australian-built NSM launcher, which was assembled from locally sourced components at Kongsberg’s new production and maintenance facility at Mawson Lakes, South Australia. The launcher canister was produced by Aerobond Defence, an Adelaide-based composite and sheet metal manufacturing company, and the BTV’s frame and rail were manufactured by Marand Precision Engineering in Melbourne. Launcher components were built by Australian Precision Technologies in Melbourne and QPE Advanced Machining in Adelaide. Kongsberg Defence Australia’s managing director John Fry said the BTV test-firing was a “key milestone in the delivery of the NSM capability to the Royal Australian Navy”. He added, “It now allows Kongsberg Defence Australia to commence full-rate production of Australian-made NSM launchers for the NSM programme.” (Source: Janes)

11 Dec 24. RTX’s Raytheon High-Energy Laser Weapon System fired by British Army for first time. Raytheon UK, part of RTX’s Raytheon business, announced that its High-Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS) completed a successful live-firing with the British Army directed against moving aerial targets. The trial, conducted at a military range in Wales, is the latest stage of the Ministry of Defence’s Land Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW) demonstrator programme and saw British soldiers operating Raytheon’s HELWS by successfully tracking and neutralising moving aerial targets.

“Our High-Energy Laser Weapon System has been used in operations globally, and now the British Army is experimenting with this game-changing capability”, said James Gray, chief executive and managing director of Raytheon UK. “The success of this test is the result of the skill, dedication, and vision of our scientists and engineers who have collaborated with the British Army to help fulfil its commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation.”

The experiment marks the first time the British Army has tested a high-energy laser weapon mounted on an armoured vehicle, while also having soldiers trained on the weapon’s targeting and tracking technologies.

Raytheon’s HELWS was the first laser weapon integrated and fired from a land vehicle in the UK, as part of a joint programme between Raytheon UK and Team Hersa (the joint LDEW enterprise between Defence and Science Laboratory and Defence Equipment and Support).

The system operates by directing an intense beam of energy toward its target, using advanced sensors and tracking systems to maintain lock-on and accuracy in real time. It has proved effective in real-world conditions, validating its potential as a game-changing technology in modern warfare.

“This milestone demonstrates the power of collaboration between Dstl, DE&S industry partners, and the British Army”, said Matt Cork, Head of Team Hersa. “By integrating advanced directed energy technologies onto armoured platforms, we’re not only proving the feasibility of these game-changing systems but also accelerating their path to operational readiness. It’s an exciting step forward in redefining the future of defence capability.”

10 Dec 24. French, Turkish naval companies tinker with torpedo interceptors. French and Turkish naval companies are keeping close tabs on industry efforts to create a kinetic torpedo interceptor, readying their own technological approaches to take to market if navies overcome their apprehension towards the futuristic concept.

For decades, navies across the world have experimented with a wide range of countermeasures to distract, confuse, and strike incoming torpedoes, notoriously cunning threats to warships. But results, so far, are mixed.

Now, a growing consensus among industry experts suggests that the ability to physically intercept enemy torpedoes is something like the holy grail in a cat-and-mouse game that favors the attacker.

“In the future, due to the development of torpedo systems and how smart they have become, sometimes deceiving or jamming it will not be enough – at that time you must have additional capabilities, which can include a hard-kill measure,” Ahmet Akyol, president of Turkey’s Aselsan said during a panel discussion at Euronaval trade show in Paris last month.

Both Aselsan and Naval Group independently confirmed to Defense News that they are each conducting research and developmental work to build hard-kill torpedo countermeasures, which presents its own set of complexities.

Underwater targeting is much harder than in the air, due to the laws of physics, and while torpedoes move slower than cruise missiles, they are still challenging to detect.

Antoine Kauffman, marketing manager for underwater systems at Naval Group, said it is in part the unique challenges found in the deep-sea environment that help explain “why many systems [anti-torpedo torpedoes] are not yet sufficiently mature to be integrated into militaries.”

Although several kinetic torpedo interceptors have already been developed, much of their lethal capability has yet to be tested, and their reliability remains largely uncertain.

One existing system is the Torbuster manufactured by Israel’s Rafael, which employs generic or tailored acoustic signals to lure an incoming torpedo near a decoy which explodes at close range, a mechanism that does not convince Kauffman.

“We do not believe in it at all because it is based on ‘seduction’ where you need to be able to attract the torpedo less than 20 meters of the countermeasure and never will it go that close – the torpedo will understand well before,” he told Defense News ahead of the Euronaval conference.

The Indian Navy is the only known international customer to have purchased Torbuster following Rafael’s announcement in May that it was partnering with local company Bharat Dynamics Limited to equip Indian ships with the technology.

Kauffman predicted that the maturity of concepts and designs of hard-kill torpedo technology will be more or less around 2030.

This timeline concurs with the one set out by the European Defense Agency regarding an anti-torpedo torpedo (ATT) demonstrator project, which builds on previous work done by Germany’s Atlas Elektronik and the Dutch TNO research organization.

“The objective is to reach a production-ready design by 2028 – it has [already] been proven that the system can successfully detect the attacking torpedo and subsequently activate the anti-torpedo torpedo, indicating that the desired effect can be achieved,” Jürgen Scraback, head of the EDA’s maritime domain unit said.

The official added that negotiations are currently underway for more European Union member states to join the project. (Source: Defense News)

10 Dec 24. MDA conducts first-ever ballistic missile intercept test from Guam. The Missile Defense Agency intercepted an incoming ballistic missile threat target in a test from Guam, according to a Tuesday agency announcement. The test is the “first ballistic missile defense event executed from Guam,” the statement notes. As the Pentagon works to build an integrated air and missile defense architecture on Guam, this is the first test of a portion of the future capability designed to protect the key strategic island from emerging and evolving threats.

“Within the context of homeland defense, a top priority for the Department of Defense, Guam is also a strategic location for sustaining and maintaining United States military presence, deterring adversaries, responding to crises, and maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region,” the statement says.

In the test, an Aegis Guam System with an AN/TPY-6 radar and Vertical Launching System fired a Standard Missile-3 Block IIA interceptor, which then took out an air-launched Medium Range Ballistic Missile target flying off the coast of Andersen Air Force Base, according to the statement.

The AN/TPY-6 radar, a new MDA system designed specifically for the Guam architecture and delivered there earlier this year, tracked the target from shortly after launch to the intercept, the statement says.

The new radar uses technology from MDA’s Long-Range Discrimination Radar positioned in Alaska at Clear Space Force Station, which will have its own test next year ahead of declaring operational capability.

“This is a tremendous group effort and provides a glimpse of how organizations within the Department of Defense have come together to defend our homeland Guam now and in the future,” Lt. Gen. Heath Collins, MDA director, said in the statement. “Collectively, we will use this to build upon and validate joint tracking architecture and integrated air and missile defense capabilities for Guam.”

The test data will feed into continued concept development, requirements validation and modeling for the future Guam Defense System, or GDS, the statement adds.

GDS will be built using a variety of components from the services. The U.S. Army was assigned in 2023 to lead the acquisition and execution plan for the Guam architecture, and the service’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office lead – a three-star general – was appointed to stand up a joint team for seeing it through.

MDA’s role now is focused primarily on developing the means to tie all the systems together that will be part of the GDS architecture.

The agency is establishing a combined command center on the island that will host all of the “major command and control systems in the missile defense business,” Collins said in an interview with Defense News this summer. Component include the Army’s Integrated Battle Command System, the Navy’s Aegis weapon system and the Aegis ground system being built for Guam, the Air Force’s C2 system and the agency’s Command Control Battle Management and Communications system, known as C2BMC.

The architecture also relies on a variety of systems still in development, mostly within the Army. The Navy will provide technology and capability from its Aegis weapon system. The land service plans to bring currently fielded capability like the Patriot system and its IBCS that connects any sensor and shooter together on the battlefield, as well as Mid-Range Capability missile launchers, which were first fielded at the end of last year.

The Army will also incorporate Patriot’s radar replacement, the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor, and its Indirect Fire Protection Capability launchers currently in prototype testing and evaluation.

While the test represents a step forward, over the next year or so, the island “will look like it pretty much looks today,” Collins told Defense News. “Our first construction money to start building on the island is ‘25 so we will, by the end of ‘25, we will have begun some military construction on some of the sites.” (Source: Defense News)

09 Dec 24. South Korea commissions its first next-generation Aegis destroyer. South Korea’s navy formally received the first of a new class of guided-missile destroyer equipped with the Aegis combat system late last month. Such vessels, equipped to counter ballistic missiles, are deemed vital to help Seoul neutralize threats from the North. Built by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, the new 8,200-ton vessel is christened ROKS Jeongjo the Great. It belongs to the KDX-III Batch II class that will eventually comprise three vessels, these being the largest surface combatants Korea has ever built.

Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) had contracted the warship’s construction in October 2019, and it was duly launched on July 28, 2022.

The navy explained, “We evaluate that the Jeongjo the Great – which is equipped with the ability to intercept ballistic missiles and strike enemy leadership and key strategic targets – will demonstrate a strong deterrent against North Korea to repel enemy provocations in the event of an emergency.”

Further, DAPA said this vessel “is expected to play a key role in the sea-based maneuvering ‘Three-Axis system’ by possessing the ability to detect and track ballistic missiles as well as intercept them.”

This “Three-Axis system” refers to three connected defense initiatives aimed at negating Pyongyang’s nuclear and missile threat.

DAPA said the new destroyer’s “combat capabilities have dramatically improved” compared to the preceding 7,600-ton KDX-III Batch I class, three of which were commissioned from 2008-2012.

The 170m-long (558 foot) vessel is stealthier and is heavily armed with anti-ship missiles, surface-to-surface missiles plus air defense missiles that include the SM-3 and SM-6. Other weapons include a 5-inch naval gun and close-in weapon system, plus it is well equipped for anti-submarine warfare.

Commodore Shin Hyun-seung, head of DAPA’s Shipbuilding Division, confirmed: “Jeongjo the Great is equipped with the latest Aegis combat system, an integrated sonar system developed domestically, and a Korean vertical launching system, so it can respond to various threats such as ballistic missiles, and is expected to play a strong role as a guardian of our national security.”

In fact, it is the first warship to adopt the Korean Vertical Launching System II. According to the Ministry of National Defense, the destroyer also features improved habitability with larger crew compartment spaces and even a wireless network allowing crew members to instantly communicate with each other using smart devices.

The second destroyer of the class is scheduled to launch next year, while HD Hyundai Heavy Industries commenced construction of the third ship on Oct. 17. These two vessels should be delivered in 2026 and 2027 respectively, according to the shipbuilder. ROKS Jeongjo the Great will undergo around a year of operational training before officially deploying in late 2025. (Source: C4ISR & Networks)

10 Dec 24. A new era for Australian naval firepower: Successful Tomahawk launch for RAN. Australia has joined an exclusive club following the successful firing of a Tomahawk cruise missile by HMAS Brisbane, a major milestone for the future firepower of the Royal Australian Navy. The successful test firing makes Australia one of only three nations alongside the United States and the United Kingdom to acquire, and now fire, the Tomahawk cruise missiles. HMAS Brisbane, a Hobart Class destroyer, has successfully fired a Tomahawk missile during a test and evaluation activity conducted off the west coast of the United States.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles celebrated this capability milestone, saying, “The successful test firing of the Tomahawk missile demonstrates the strength of our alliance and defence cooperation with the United States, in support of a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.”

With an extended range of up to 2,500 kilometres, the Tomahawk is a world-class capability, which allows maritime platforms to perform long-range precision strike against land targets. Acquiring this capability significantly enhances the ADF’s ability to deter against any potential threat and keep Australians safe.

“By enhancing our own Defence capabilities, and by working with partners, we change the calculus for any potential aggressor so that no state will ever conclude the benefits of conflict outweigh the risks,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

This Tomahawk firing follows the firings of the Naval Strike Missile and Standard Missile 6 earlier this year and is a practical demonstration of the speed at which the Albanese government is delivering on its commitment to enhance the lethality of Navy’s surface combatant fleet.

Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy echoed the sentiments of the Deputy Prime Minister, saying, “The Tomahawk is the jewel in the crown and a step change in our firepower, deterrence and ability to strike land-based targets at ranges never before available to the Royal Australian Navy.”

Australia will acquire more than 200 Tomahawk missiles, which will be deployed in its Hobart Class destroyers and future Navy platforms, including Virginia Class submarines and, subject to feasibility studies, the Hunter Class frigates.

“The acquisition of Tomahawks, along with Naval Strike Missile and Standard Missile 6, is a game changer for our ADF and comes years ahead of what was previously planned,” Minister Conroy said.

The government has committed $1.3bn to acquire the Tomahawk capability and bringing it into service several years faster than originally planned.

Designed and produced by Raytheon, the Tomahawk cruise missile has evolved since its initial iterations, with the most recent version called the Block IV Tactical Tomahawk or TACTOM incorporating a data link that allows it to switch targets while in flight and allowing it to loiter for hours and change course instantly on command. As part of the continued development and enhanced lethality of the Tomahawk, in 2020 the US Navy began recertifying and modernising the Block IV missile, extending its service life by 15 years, and resulting in the new Tomahawk Block V series. (Source: Defence Connect)

09 Dec 24. Japan outlines progress made on improved Type 12 missile. Japan’s Ministry of Defense (MoD) has released more details on the progress it has made in a programme to enhance the country’s Type 12 surface-to-ship guided missile. In its statement issued on 6 December, the MoD disclosed that a total of five test firings of the improved weapon were carried out between 4 October and 1 November 2024 at the Aeronautical Equipment Research Institute on Nii-jima Island. Three tests of the weapon were carried out on 4, 14, and 17 October, and the missiles fired on these dates were ground-based variants, said the MoD. Subsequently, two further tests were carried out on 28 October and 1 November, and these firings involved ship-launched versions of the missile, the MoD added. No further details on these tests were provided in the MoD statement. Developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the Type 12 surface-to-ship missile has been developed from the country’s Type 88 anti-ship missile. The newer weapon was first fielded by Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) coastal battalions in 2014. It features an overall length of 5 m, has a diameter of 350 mm, and weighs 700 kg. It is armed with a 225 kg high-explosive warhead and utilises an inertial navigation system (INS) and active radar seeker to home onto its targets. In JGSDF service, the weapon is carried and launched in a road-ready, six-cell configuration on a Mitsubishi 8×8 transporter-erector-launcher (TEL) vehicle. (Source: Janes)

09 Dec 24. The United States Army’s Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) developed by Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) demonstrated its ability to connect with any sensor or effector by successfully integrating with the emerging U.S. Army Indirect Fire Protection Capability (IFPC) system, a ground-based weapon system designed to protect assets such as command centers and airfields. During the flight tests held at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, the IBCS system:

Detected, identified and tracked two surrogate unmanned aerial vehicle targets and a surrogate cruise missile
Engaged and defeated the maneuvering surrogate targets with the IFPC system

Kenn Todorov, vice president and general manager, global battle management and readiness, Northrop Grumman: “With IBCS’ innovative, game-changing technology, the U.S. Army can test emerging systems like IFPC that will help modernize air and missile defense. IBCS’ ready-now capabilities connect any sensor and any effector across the battlespace, allowing the most effective weapon to take out the threat.”

Details on IBCS:

IBCS is a revolutionary mission command fire control system that unifies current and future systems regardless of source, service or domain. Through its network-enabled, modular, open and scalable architecture, IBCS gives warfighters capabilities not previously available by fusing sensor data for a single actionable picture of the full battlespace. This ready-now capability gives warfighters more time to make decisions on how best to defeat threats and is a foundational element for enabling joint and coalition multi-domain operations.

IBCS is in production, currently fielded in Poland, and planned for deployment in Defense of Guam as part of the U.S. Army program of record for integrated air and missile defense modernization. IBCS has demonstrated its ability to integrate with a wide range of sensors and shooters, including Patriot, Sentinel, F-35, Common Anti-Air Modular Missile, Giraffe, Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor (LTAMDS) and other sovereign capabilities.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with the capabilities they need to connect and protect the world, and push the boundaries of human exploration across the universe. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our employees define possible every day.

06 Dec 24. Kratos XQ-58A Demos Collaborative EW and Kill Chain Closure under USMC Control in Large Force Exercise.

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a Technology Company in the Defense, National Security and Global Markets and an industry-leading provider of high-performance, jet-powered unmanned aerial systems, today announced the successful performance of a recent series of flight tests of the United States Marine Corps’ XQ-58A Valkyrie, manufactured by Kratos. These flights and exercises were conducted jointly earlier this year by Kratos, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Autonodyne, the United States Marine Corps (USMC), the United States Navy, and the United States Air Force (USAF).

The test was conducted as a part of Emerald Flag 2024—a multiservice and multi-domain training exercise. During this milestone event, the USMC demonstrated cooperative kill chain closure between crewed and uncrewed strike platforms, specifically Kratos’ XQ-58A Valkyrie, for the first time in a large-force exercise.

The USMC kill chain closure demonstration, hosted in a joint force environment, showcased collaborative electronic warfare (EW) operations in addition to newly added tactical data link capabilities. These tests mark the first time the Department of Defense (DoD) controlled an XQ-58 using expeditionary methods. Initial results indicate the system met threshold requirements for autonomously exchanging relevant tactical information. These capabilities significantly enhance the Marine Air-Ground Task Force’s ability to conduct integrated and joint operations, contributing to the USMC’s mission to deter conflict and, when necessary, defeat enemies in complex and evolving scenarios.

These flights were conducted in partnership with the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) AIRWorks, and industry partners. Flight test support was provided by the 40th Flight Test Squadron, the 46th Test Squadron, the 96th Test Wing, and the Marine Operational Test & Evaluation Squadron 1 (VMX-1).

The latest event was witnessed by the USMC Deputy Commandant of Aviation, Lt. Gen. Bradford Gering, as well as officers and civilians from the Marine Corps Cunningham Group, Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory, Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Expeditionary and Maritime Aviation-Advanced Development Team (XMA-ADT), and the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD).

As the USMC advances towards the operational fielding of a new uncrewed system, Kratos is at the vanguard of technological advancement to ensure the Marines have the best tactical asset to complement their fleet of F-35B aircraft.

Flying alongside four USMC F-35B aircraft from the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 214 (VMFA-214) and two USAF F-15E/EX aircraft from the 40th Flight Test Squadron, the USMC XQ-58A operated under vehicle-level autonomy to perform maneuvers in a simulated threat environment. The Valkyrie’s on-board sensors identified and geolocated relevant threats, and simultaneously passed targeting data to collaborating air and ground platforms over tactical networks.

During the exercise, the XQ-58A was also flown by a USMC aviator, and control was passed between air and ground control methods which can command multiple Valkyries simultaneously. This demonstration of the XQ-58A’s ability to support crewed-uncrewed teaming and Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO) marks a significant milestone in the Marine Air-Ground Task Force Unmanned Aerial System Expeditionary (MUX) Tactical Aircraft (TACAIR) development.

Steve Fendley, President of Kratos Unmanned Systems Division, said, “We’re proud to be leading the industry effort to demonstrate and deliver this critical collaborative uncrewed aircraft capability. The mission capability demonstrated during the latest exercise – enabling Marine Corps pilots to lead a strike package of multiple Valkyries seamlessly transferring C2 between crewed aircraft and expeditionary ground control stations, to autonomously accomplish the mission while reducing risk exposure – will be a force multiplier. Our integrated, autonomous collaborative platform, jet-powered aircraft systems truly validate the DoD’s goal of achieving effective, survivable, affordable mass.”

Flying since 2019, the Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie is a high-performance, runway-flexible tactical unmanned aerial vehicle capable of long-range flights at high-subsonic speeds. The Valkyrie can serve as a loyal wingman, conduct single unmanned aircraft system operations, or operate in swarms. Combining affordability, survivability, long-range, high-subsonic speeds, maneuverability, and ability to carry flexible mission kit configurations and mix of lethal weapons from its internal weapons bay and wing stations, the XQ-58A provides unmatched operational flexibility at an affordable price for multiple DoD customers. (Source: ASD Network)

06 Dec 24. US artillery roadshow to finish up before end of year. Artillery fires have sounded around the world as part of the US Army’s ‘roadshow’ to find a modular tactical cannon solution throughout November. Performance demonstrations are set to be completed by the end of December, Brigadier General Rory Crooks, director of Long Range Precision Fires Cross-Functional Team (CFT), told reporters on 3 December. Out of five vendors, Hanwha and BAE Systems have both completed live-fire demonstrations of their mobile artillery solutions – Hanwha’s K9 self-propelled howitzer in South Korea and BAE’s Archer in Sweden. The remaining three are in various stages of completion, multiple defence industry sources told Janes. In November a demonstration of the Archer artillery system included a basic scenario of shoot, move, and resupply, BAE System’s director of business development Jim Miller told Janes on 3 December. BAE has begun discussions on how to “Americanise” Archer, which could include changes to the system such as replacing the Swedish fire controls with US ones. Analysis is ongoing for how it might add a production line to an existing facility such as the one in Eglin, Oklahoma. The range in Sweden was not large enough to allow BAE to shoot at its maximum range, though it was demonstrated on the 52 calibre gun for the army in 2023, Miller noted. Elbit Systems of America, General Dynamics Land Systems, and Rheinmetall are yet to complete a demonstration, multiple defence sources confirmed to Janes . General Dynamics was scheduled to complete a live fire of its Piranha wheeled vehicle with a Remote Controlled Howitzer (RCH) 155 platform in the next two weeks. (Source: Janes)

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MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

December 6, 2024 by

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06 Dec 24. The Australian Army will select either HIMARS or StrikeMaster launcher vehicles to provide land-based, long-range fires in northern Australia under a new announcement this week.

The officials are rapidly pushing ahead to equip the Australian Army with a second long-range fires regiment, a statement from the federal government released on 6 December said.

In line with the priorities of the 2024 National Defence Strategy, the Australian Army must be equipped with land-based, long-range fires to protect Australia’s northern approaches.

The government will select from two options:

The Precision Strike Missile fired from the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher vehicle.
The Naval Strike Missile fired from the StrikeMaster launcher vehicle.

To inform this selection process, a competitive evaluation process will occur over the course of 2025.

“The National Defence Strategy and our government’s response recognises that land‑based maritime strike is a critical element in achieving a strategy of denial,” Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said.

“Today’s announcement represents another historic milestone, which will see our Army equipped with this capability for the first time in history.”

This follows the federal government’s decision in August 2023 to accelerate the acquisition of 42 land-based, surface-to-surface HIMARS launchers and precision munitions for the Australian Army. (Source: Defence Connect)

05 Dec 24. This Marine Corps unit now has a ship-killing missile in its toolkit. The Marine Corps’ newest formation now has the service’s key weapon in its armory: a ship-killing missile. The 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment out of Marine Corps Base Hawaii recently announced the unit had received the Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System, or NMESIS. The NMESIS serves as a critical weapon for Marines as they have spent recent years restructuring the service to better assist the U.S. Navy in gaining access to maritime territory defended by adversary missiles and warning systems.

“3rd MLR has an enhanced sea denial capability and is positioned at the forefront of strategic transformation,” Lt. Col. Timothy Love, 3rd Littoral Combat Team commander, said in a Nov. 26 release.

The weapon provides coverage for Navy and partner vessels from coastal positions and gives joint forces combined land and sea targeting options, according to Love.

The system combines a joint light tactical vehicle with remote controls and mounts a Naval Strike Missile on the frame, giving users a mobile missile system in a single package. This aligns with the stated role of the Marines: to island hop and destroy enemy ships and targets ahead of U.S. Navy ships arrival. The NMESIS, which will function as the Corps’ primary ground-launched anti-ship capability, is being field to the service’s littoral regiments as part of its Force Design modernization effort, Maj. Kevin Stephensen, Marine spokesman, previously told Defense News. The 3rd MLR was the Corps’ first littoral regiment, a new concept that combines a slimmer infantry battalion, improved radar and sensors with a variety of force and reconnaissance packages to assist joint commanders. The Hawaii-based unit emerged in 2021 and since then the service has established another MLR on Okinawa with plans for a third rotational regiment on Guam. The regiment’s Medium-Range Missile Battery will operate the NMESIS within the regiment’s infantry battalion. The fire support coordination center within the regiment will integrate the missile along with other kinetic and nonkinetic fires as they conduct maritime dynamic targeting process tasks, a rapid way to identify and hit targets from multiple platforms. The NMESIS serves as a critical weapon for Marines as the service has worked to restructure the service to better assist the U.S. Navy in gaining access to maritime territory defended by adversary missiles and warning systems. (Cpl. Eric Huynh/Marine Corps) Norwegian defense firm Kongsberg won a five-year, $900 million contract in November from the Navy — the firm’s biggest missile contract ever — to provide the NMESIS and the Naval Strike Missile which the service uses on its littoral combat ships and Constellation-class frigates, Defense News previously reported. The Marine Corps procured 97 NMESIS in fiscal 2023 and another 24 in fiscal 2024, according to the service’s fiscal 2025 budget request. Those procurements filled the service’s initial capability needs for the missile. Procurement is on pause for fiscal 2025, Defense News previously reported. (Source: Defense News)

05 Dec 24. Poland implements second executive contracts for K9 SPHs and Chunmoo MRLs. Secretary of State at the Polish Ministry of National Defence Paweł Bejda announced during a press conference on 2 December that Poland has begun implementing the second executive contracts for K9 self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) and Homar-K (K239 Chunmoo) multiple rocket launchers (MRLs) from South Korea. This was made possible by a credit agreement worth EUR4bn (USD4.2bn) with Poland’s Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego (National Development Bank) on 27 November. On 1 December 2023 Poland’s Armaments Agency (AA) and Hanwha Aerospace signed a second executive contract worth USD2.6 billion for additional K9 SPHs for the Polish army. Bejda said the agreement on the procurement of six more K9A1 SPHs in 2025 and 146 K9PL variants in 2026–27 depended on obtaining financial resources. He noted that the contract also included training and logistics packages, a service and repair centre, spare parts, and the possibility of establishing the capacity to produce modular charges. It also included several tens of thousands of 155 mm artillery rounds. The logistics package included spare parts and consumables, as well as equipment for operating the SPHs, according to the AA. After the signing, Hanwha said the contract also included technology transfer to streamline local production of parts to maintain weapon systems, as well as technical support to maintain, renovate, and modernise the Polish defence industry. (Source: Janes)

04 Dec 24. US Army funds S&T effort for PrSM Inc 5. A new science and technology (S&T) line of effort will be funded in fiscal year (FY) 2026 for an extended-range ground-based missile, the US Armyrevealed on 3 December. Once fielded, Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) Increment 1 (Inc 1) will be the longest-range land-based missile in the US Army’s arsenal. Four increments have already been announced, but a fifth increment is in the works, said Brigadier General Rory Crooks, director of the Precision Fires Cross-Functional Team (CFT). While Brig Gen Crooks declined to share a timeline for the development of the weapon, he told the audience at an Association of the United States Army (AUSA) event that research is being poured into how to make a longer pod. A typical army Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS) is 13 ft long, he noted. “If you have something without a cab that’s autonomous, you might be able to employ something longer than that later down the road,” he added. It is unclear how much the range will be extended for PrSM Inc 5 because of how early it is in the development process, said Brig Gen Crooks. “We think Increment 5 – when you free up the design so that it’s not constrained by a current MLRS family and munitions pod length – we’re going to see how much more range we can achieve out of that,” he said. “Whether or not we can achieve hypersonic speeds with that capability, at what payloads – these are all things that are on the table right now.” (Source: Janes)

29 Nov 24. India tests nuclear-capable K-4 missile from INS Arighaat. This marks the first test of the K-4 missile from a submarine, following a previous unsuccessful trial in 2019. India has conducted a successful test of its nuclear-capable K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from the recently commissioned INS Arighaat, a nuclear-powered submarine. In preparation of this test, a public area warning and NOTAM was issued for an intermediate-range missile test over a 3,490km flight corridor in the Bay of Bengal, reported The Times of India. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, the K-4 missile is capable of carrying a 1-tonne (t) payload up to a range of 3,500km, reported Defence News. This marks the first test of the K-4 missile from a submarine, following a previous unsuccessful trial in December 2019 due to technical problems. The missile, which is 10 metres (m) long and weighs 20t, has been tested at least five times in recent years from submersible platforms, demonstrating its capabilities over nearly its full range, people familiar with the matter told the Press Trust of India. INS Arighaat, the second Arihant-class submarine, was commissioned into the Indian Navy in August 2024 at Visakhapatnam, with Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh in attendance. (Source: naval-technology.com)

29 Nov 24. France considers development of medium-range ballistic missile, press reports. On November 27, the French newspaper Challenges reported discussions within the French Armed Forces regarding the potential acquisition of a land-based medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM). This move signals a strategic shift as France explores bolstering its defence capabilities with missiles boasting a range exceeding 1,000 km. Currently, deliberations involve the French Armed Forces General Staff (État-major des armées), the Directorate General of Armaments (Direction générale de l’armement), and the Ministry of Armed Forces. The discussions aim to assess the feasibility and necessity of this missile system, with few details available given the early stage of the project. The proposed missile is set to differ from France’s existing M51 submarine-launched ballistic missiles, which have ranges of 8,000–10,000 km and can carry multiple thermonuclear warheads. The land-based missile would feature a single warhead and active manoeuvring capabilities during its final flight phase, making it harder for missile defence systems to intercept. Unlike hypersonic glide vehicles, this missile’s design would focus on simplicity to reduce development time and costs. Speculation suggests it would be relatively compact, leveraging advancements in manoeuvrability to enhance survivability. At present, neither France nor any European NATO member possesses land-based ballistic missiles with such specifications. NATO’s European members rely on shorter-range American MGM-140 ATACMS missiles and South Korean Hanwha Aerospace CTM-290/Ure-I missiles, neither of which exceed a 300 km range. Only the US Army fields the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) with a range of 700 km, but these are not yet available for export. This French initiative could potentially evolve into a broader European collaboration. Other European programmes, such as the Franco-British-Italian FC/ASW and the multinational ELSA initiative, also aim to develop advanced missile systems. These projects focus on enhancing Europe’s strategic reach with options like high-speed cruise missiles and land-based variants of naval systems. (Source: Google/https://defence-industry.eu/)

03 Dec 24. UK MoD seeks high explosive supply chain amid munitions bottleneck. The UK looks to be setting up a supply chain to feed Ukrainian demand for artillery shells and munitions.

Releasing a single statement of user need (SSUN) on 28 November, the MoD revealed its intention to develop a high explosive supply chain specifically to assist with Ukrainian requirements, indicating the potential development of a country-specific industrial capability inside the UK or overseas, funded by the UK.

Working under the moniker of Task Force Kindred, the SSUN revealed that an industry day would take place on 11 December to determine capabilities and resources available in the private sector, specific to the provision of “high explosives for warheads and artillery projectiles, peopellants for boost/rocket motors and artillery”, as well as “pyrotechnics”.

In its reasoning, the MoD stated that it required to “secure supply of a significant quantity of energetic materials” for the next three years, citing a “critical bottleneck in munitions production” and availability of energetic materials, including ammonium and nitric acid.

The MoD intends to “reverse this” through a “coherent set of multi-year investments in UK-based or overseas suppliers”, funded through part of the “annual £3bn Ukraine budget”, and could include investment in facilities and infrastructure.

The move comes on the back of the announced creation of a new UK-based factory to produce M777 155mm lightweight towed howitzers, with Ukraine one of the most likely destination, given the British Army does not use the platform.

Has the UK been too slow off the mark?

The clamour for the raw materials of munitions manufacture, as defence industries in the UK, Europe, and the US spool up manufacturing to meet the demand, not just from Ukraine, but also all its suppliers.

To date, ms of artillery rounds have been provided by the US and Europe to Ukraine, particularly in the 155mm range, as Kyiv continues to persist in a war that passed the 1,000-day landmark recently.

However, with all countries effectively competing for the same raw materials and for the business from such suppliers, it is far from certain that the UK MoD will be able to acquire the resources it needs.

In August 2024, UK-based Astor Defence secured a four-year deal to supply Finnish defence OEM Nammo with TNT for the production of 155mm artillery shells.

In its release, Astor Defence stated that it would provide Nammo Group with “thousands of tons” of TNT, coming weeks after the Norwegian government announced in July 2024 that it had entered into a multi-year agreement with Nammo on artillery, missile, and rocket munitions.

The company also said it has “spare capacity” for TNT supply through 2025.

In November 2024, the US revealed that it would reestablish TNT production with a $217.5m contract for the design, build, and commission of a Trinitrotoluene facility to Repkon USA-Defense.

Better known as the acronym TNT, Trinitrotoluene is used in the manufacture of military munitions, and is the prime high explosive used in the production of artillery shells, as well as aerial bombs and infantry grenades. The new facility will be built in Kentucky and expected to be completed by November 2028.

The award will reestablish TNT production “swiftly and at scale” on US soil for the first time in decades, the US Army stated in an 8 November release.

“Reshoring TNT production gives us the ability to control and secure our supply chain for this vital component, especially in an era of increasing global challenges,” said Douglas Bush, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology.

Supply chains stretched by global demands

In March, a report by analytics firm GlobalData examined the strain placed on global supply chains as an intensifying rearmament race, driven by geopolitical tensions and escalating defence budget, was setting new demands for an industrial base struggling to keep up with demand.

Speaking in March 2024, James Marques, defence and security analyst at GlobalData, said “vital items” such as artillery shells, air defence missiles, and armoured vehicles were seeing “rates of attrition in the war in Ukraine at rates unheard of in recent times”.

The repercussions of this heightened demand are reverberating across supply chains, with Western nations striving to replenish depleted stocks while simultaneously supporting Ukrainian forces.

The UK, for instance, has confirmed that it had donated 400,000 artillery shells to Ukraine and had earlier inked deals with companies such as BAE Systems to increase munitions production. Similarly, companies like Rheinmetall and KNDS in Europe are forging ahead with new production lines to meet the escalating demand. (Source: army-technology.com)

29 Nov 24. Dynetics Gets US Army Contract Worth up to $4bn for Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2. On November 13, 2024, the Army awarded Dynetics, Inc. an Undefinitized Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity letter contract for Indirect Fire Protection Capability Inc 2 Low-Rate Initial Production, Full Rate Production, and Support Services.

The contract valued at $4.1bn will initially procure 18 IFPC Inc 2 launchers. The total not-to-exceed dollar value of the undefinitized contract order is $204m, of which $99m was obligated immediately upon IDIQ contract award.

By leveraging an IDIQ contract, the Army is taking advantage of streamlined procurement processes, and increased flexibility, ultimately enhancing its ability to support the warfighter.

Major General Frank Lozano, Program Executive Officer Missile and Space, reiterated the Army’s continued support of our warfighters and allies, stating,

“With this contract award, the U.S. Army advances its commitment to defending U.S. interests and by bringing us one step closer to fulfilling our mission of providing robust and layered defense against ballistic missile attacks.”

The IFPC Inc 2 capability is in high demand as it is designed to protect fixed and semi-fixed sites from unmanned aerial systems, cruise missiles, and rockets, artillery, and mortars. The capability provides a critical layer of defense for forward operating bases and other critical infrastructure.

In conjunction with other Program Executive Office Missiles and Space efforts, the IFPC Inc 2 capability is designed to integrate with other Army defense systems using the Army’s Integrated Battle Command System which provides a single, integrated air and missile defense fire control system that integrates multiple sensors and shooters, enabling a more effective and efficient defense against a wide range of threats.

The contract award is led by PEO MS and executed in partnership with Army Contracting Command-Redstone Arsenal. (Source: UAS VISION/U.S. Army)

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MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

November 29, 2024 by

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29 Nov 24. Royal Artillery gunners are retraining on the 105mm Light Gun to fill a capability gap in two close support regiments until the Rheinmetall RCH 155 wheeled artillery system is delivered later this decade. As Defence Eye reported earlier this month, the Royal Artillery has now handed over all its AS90 155mm self-propelled guns to the Ukrainians, which left a capability gap in 1 Deep Strike Recce Brigade. The brigade’s two close support gun regiments are assigned to work directly with the British Army’s two armoured brigades. (Source: Defence Eye)

29 Nov 24. Agreements signed: Rheinmetall and Lithuania begin construction of modern artillery ammunition production plant. Lithuania and Rheinmetall are beginning construction of a modern production plant for 155mm artillery ammunition. The necessary contracts, including a land lease agreement and a supply contract for the procurement of 155mm ammunition, were signed at a ceremony held on 29 November 2024. The Prime Minister of Lithuania, Ms Ingrida Šimonytė, the Lithuanian Minister for the Economy and Innovation, Ms Aušrinė Armonaite, and the Lithuanian Minister of National Defence, Mr Laurynas Kasčiūnas, attended the event.
With the start of construction in Baisogala, Lithuania is taking a further step towards strengthening its defence sector. A state-of-the-art production facility, including a shell manufacturing and load assembly pack, is being built in the municipality on an area of around 340 hectares. The facility will begin operations from mid-2026 and, once completed, will be able to produce tens of thousands of 155mm calibre artillery shells per year. 180 million euros are invested directly in Lithuania. Around 150 jobs will be created locally. Local companies and the local economy will be integrated into the value chain.
“From day one, the dialogue between the Lithuanian Government and Rheinmetall has been based on a mutual understanding of this project’s necessity and urgency. I am very pleased that today, this cooperation has enabled the beginning of construction of the artillery ammunition production plant. Our defence needs, the importance of the shortest possible supply chains, and strong allied partnership between Lithuania and Germany underscore the need to maintain the momentum as we continue to work in the same spirit of cooperation,” says Ingrida Šimonytė, Prime Minister of Lithuania.
“We at Rheinmetall are very grateful for the trust Lithuania has placed in us. It is and remains our aspiration at Rheinmetall to be one of the pillars of national and international security provision. This long-term partnership with Lithuania confirms this once again,” says Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG.
“In light of the growing security challenges, we must move beyond words and take concrete steps to strengthen our nation’s defence capabilities. By fostering large-scale investment projects and enabling local production of weaponry, we not only address national security needs but also reduce our dependence on arms procured from international markets. I have no doubt that Lithuania is moving in the right direction, and it is promising to see global leaders like Rheinmetall choosing to be part of this progress,” says Aušrinė Armonaitė, the Minister of the Economy and Innovation.
“The establishment of the German defense industry company Rheinmetall’s ammunition factory in Lithuania is not only significant in the context of the defense industry‘s development but will also address the needs of our armed forces. It was quite a complex process, but I am pleased and grateful to my colleagues that, through joint efforts, we managed to reach an agreement on this historic and important project for our national security,” notes Laurynas Kasčiūnas, the Minister of Defence.
As recently as June 2024, Rheinmetall and the Lithuanian Minister of Economy and Innovation Armonaite signed an agreement regulating the establishment of the German defence company Rheinmetall in Lithuania. The project was granted the status of ‘state significance’. As a result, the Lithuanian Centre of Excellence for Ammunition will benefit from special investment and business conditions to speed up the construction of the plant.

29 Nov 24. South Korea said on Friday it had completed development of a new ballistic missile interceptor, adding a further layer to defence systems deployed to protect against missile threats from neighbouring North Korea.
The move comes after the North designated South Korea a “hostile state” and no longer a partner in the goal of unification, breaking from decades of policy and dramatically escalating tension with hostile rhetoric throughout the year.
The Long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (LSAM) is designed to intercept incoming ballistic missiles or aircraft at altitudes higher than 40 km (25 miles) in the terminal phase of its descent, the defence ministry said.
Ten years in development, the L-SAM will become operational in the mid- to late 2020s after mass production begins in 2025, the ministry added in a statement.
“This is a cutting-edge weapon that intercepts enemy missiles at high altitudes to minimise damage on land, expanding our military’s missile defence capabilities to higher altitudes and wider areas,” it said.
(Source: Reuters)

26 Nov 24. BAE Systems sets up 155mm artillery factory in the UK, but why? The new 94,000 sq ft facility will specialise in artillery manufacturing to deliver the M777 155mm lightweight towed howitzer.
The return to the UK of industrial capacity to help restart production of M777 155mm lightweight towed howitzers is the latest step in a series of moves by the country’s defence sector to onshore manufacturing capabilities.
In mid-November, defence prime BAE Systems announced the establishment of a new UK-based artillery factory to produce the M777, a platform in common use in the US, Ukraine, and others, but not the British Army.
Although a UK headquartered company, BAE Systems has incorporated significant structures in the US to ensure access to its lucrative defence markets. This included production of the M777, which used to be produced from a BAE Systems facility near Barrow before subsequently closing down due to a decline in orders.
The company’s stated aim, to “deliver long-term artillery capabilities for the UK” does not appear to align to a prospective UK requirement for the M777, with the British Army not seeking towed 155mm artillery given its recent twin Archer (as interim) and RCH 155 (in service by 2029) acquisitions.
In addition, the current 105mm L118 light gun, which is towed, is not due to leave service until 2030 at the earliest.
The most obvious answer points towards a (re)onshoring of production of the M777 for export customers, such as Ukraine, mentioned above, which has received more than 200 155mm artillery howitzers from the United States.
A return to the White House of Donald Trump next year following his election victory could have an impact on the willingness of a new administration – with former Fox News host Pete Hegseth in as the new Secretary of Defence – in continuing the provision of military equipment to Ukraine.
The M777 move follows an August announcement that Perfect Bore Manufacturing would begin to produce 120mm mortar tubes for the defence sector, as the UK’s land industrial base begins to expand.
UK facility gives M777 155mm new lease of life
In more recent years, a renewed global interest in the M777’s capability has promoted to US Army to seek out ways to restart production of the platform.
As proven in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, which recently passed 1,000 days of combat since Russia’s February 2022 invasion, artillery and stand-off strike capabilities continue to dominate the battlefield.
In January 2024, BAE Systems signed an agreement with the US Army for M777 ‘major structures’ under an Undefinitised Contract Action, set to a $50m limit. The deal allows BAE Systems to start delivering on the programme while finalising contract details.
Speaking at the time, BAE Systems said it would “work with its supply chain in the UK and the US” to produce the “major M777 titanium structures”, which form the basis of the gun. The first of which are due to be delivered in 2025.
“This new contract creates the optimum conditions for a restart of M777 production in the UK and presents an opportunity to new and existing users to join a new M777 production initiative and take advantage of the benefits from a hot production line and economies of scale. The US, as well as Canada and Australia, has donated M777s to Ukraine,” BAE Systems stated.
More than 1,250 M777s are in service with ground forces in the US, Ukraine, the Americas, Australia, and India. (Source: army-technology.com)

25 Nov 24. New USMC sniper rifle is officially operational. The Corps chose the Mk22 Mod 0 Advanced Sniper Rifle, manufactured by Barrett Firearms, a company widely known for their groundbreaking work in developing the .50 caliber sniper rifle, as a changeable, multi-barrel rifle to replace two existing long rifles and give shooters three caliber options within their main shooting platform.
Those caliber options include the standard 7.62mm, the .300 Norma Magnum and .338 Norma Magnum. The caliber diversity allows shooters to select a munition for specific missions that might require more distance or more penetrating power. The rifle uses a 10-round magazine.
Marine Corps Systems Command in Quantico, Virginia, announced the milestone on Nov. 19, according to a release. The designation means that all Marine infantry and reconnaissance units, as well as associated schools, have been outfitted with the new rifle and received new equipment training on the system, officials said.
The bolt-action precision rifle, meanwhile, is one part of a system that includes a bipod, sound and muzzle flash suppressor, as well as a caliber agnostic 7×35 Precision Day Optic.
“Marines like the ability to conduct caliber conversions at their level, and the fact that they only have one rifle instead of the two it replaced,” said Kevin Marion, a logistics management specialist with Marine Corps Systems Command. “This shift improves operational efficiency, reduces the logistical burden on units and lightens the individual Marine’s load.”
The additional barrels and design of the rifle also allow for less maintenance time spent on weapons repairs, experts said in the release.
“[Replacing a barrel] was impossible with previous systems, where a condemned barrel would render the weapon unusable, directly affecting mission readiness,” said Brian Nelson, Mk22 project officer, Marine Corps Systems Command. “Now, the Mk22 ensures that even if a barrel fails, Marines are still mission ready.”
The rifle replaces both the Mk13 Mod 7 and the M40A6 sniper rifles currently in use. The Marine Corps noted in budget request documents at the inception of the program that they intended to purchase 250 Mk22 Mod 0 rifles.
The Army announced in 2021 that it would also replace its M107 sniper rifle and M2010 enhanced sniper rifle with the Mk22 Mod 0. At the time, the Army sought to purchase 2,800 Mk22 Mod 0 rifles by 2026.
The M40A6 is a heavily modified version of the original M40, which fires a 7.62mm round and was first fielded during the Vietnam War. The A6 model began fielding in 2016.
The Corps selected the legacy, Accuracy International/Remington Arms-manufactured Mk13 Mod 7 in 2018, chambered in .300 Winchester Magnum. U.S. Special Operations Command fielded an earlier variant.
The Mk22 traces its origins to a SOCOM program aimed at improving sniper rifle options for individual shooters. SOCOM officials first reported seeking a new precision sniper rifle in a late-2009 announcement. The command awarded the contract for the Mk22 Mod 0 in 2019.
The Mk22 weighs 15.2 pounds, according to the company website. The Mk13 Mod 7 and M40A6 weigh 11.4 pounds and 16.5 pounds, respectively. Both use a five-round magazine.
The Mk22′s effective firing range is 1,500 meters, while the effective firing ranges of the M40A6 and Mk13 Mod 7 are 800 meters and 1,300 meters, respectively. All three legacy rifles are bolt-action. (Source: Marine Times)

26 Nov 24. Norinco unveils SH16A 155 mm SPH. China North Industries Corporation (Norinco) displayed its new 155 mm/52 calibre SH16A self-propelled howitzer (SPH) at the recently concluded Airshow China 2024 exhibition in Zhuhai.
State-owned China Central Television (CCTV) reported that the 8×8 wheeled SH16A SPH is fitted with an unmanned turret gun with automated ammunition, charge loading, and laying systems. It is operated by a crew of three personnel.
According to footage published by CCTV, the SPH also features a smaller remote-controlled 30 mm turret gun.
According to Janes analysis, the SH16A is mounted on an upgraded version of Norinco’s ZBL-09 chassis.
The maximum range of the SPH is more than 50 km using rocket-assisted projectiles, Norinco said.
Citing Norinco, state-owned China Daily said that when loaded with shells, the SH16A weighs 39.6 tonnes and can travel at a speed of 110 km/h cross-country.
Norinco added that the gun can fire multiple types of munitions such as satellite and laser guided systems.
Citing Norinco spokesperson Cheng Ziheng, China Daily said, “[The SH16A] has an adjustable suspension system that allows for transport by aircraft, and also features better protection against land mines and improvised explosive devices. Its armour system is capable of withstanding armour-piercing gun rounds and even some anti-tank rockets from all directions.” (Source: Janes)

26 Nov 24. Ethiopia turns APC into self-propelled artillery. Making best use of available equipment appears to be the thinking behind modifications turning Ethiopian Federal Defence Forces (FDF) armoured personnel carriers (APCs) into self-propelled artillery pieces.
Janes reports that some Chinese WZ551 APCs in service with the East African country’s military now carry 122 mm D-30 howitzers. An FDF photo released on 7 August shows the artillery pieces fitted to five vehicles, allowing operation by gunners standing in the troop compartment with a shield providing limited frontal protection. It is unclear if the APCs have been fitted with adjustable stabilisers to prevent suspension damage by recoil, the publication reports. Ethiopia is believed to have about 20 WZ551s in service and at least 450 D-30 guns as well as two dozen M-46 130 mm towed guns. It has apparently mounted D-30 guns on T-55 tank chassis in previous efforts to create self-propelled artillery, although this cannot be confirmed. Recent photographs also appear to show a howitzer mounted on a military truck. Ethiopia is apparently also working on a rapidly deployable 120 mm mortar as seen in a photograph released by the FDF in August. Fitted on the load bed of a pickup truck, it appears to be a standard 2B11-pattern mortar with base plate attached to a pneumatic system to lower it from the vehicle bed to the ground so it can be fired, Janes reported. The FDF released the modified APC photograph during a visit by senior officers to the Ethiopian Defence University in Bishoftu, which it said is working on upgrading weapons. Another photo showed 122 mm BM21 multiple rocket launcher systems fitted onto six Toyota Land Cruisers. The vehicles were fitted with four stabilisers to keep them steady when firing. Ethiopia previously acquired multiple truck-mounted BM21 systems. Ethiopia has been acquiring significant quantities of military hardware in recent years, with the most recent documented arrival being dozens of Calidus MCAV-20 vehicles from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last month. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute’s (SIPRI’s) Arms Transfers database, in recent years Ethiopia acquired five Despot armoured vehicles from Bosnia-Herzegovina in 2022, 32 SH-5 155 mm self-propelled guns from China in 2022, four Bayraktar TB-2 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from Turkey in 2021, and two Wing Loong-1 UAVs that same year. China also delivered ten Type-89 APCs in 2013; four PHL-03 300 mm self-propelled multiple rocket launchers (MRLs) in 2019, and ten BP-12A surface-to-surface missile systems in 2020. In January this year, the Ethiopian Air Force revealed it had received Bayraktar Akinci UAVs from Turkey and second hand Sukhoi Su-30K combat jets from Russia. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

25 Nov 24. Canadian DRDC and Australia’s DSTG to research missile threat defence. The collaboration is to develop next-detection, monitoring, targeting and counter-measure technologies. Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) and Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) have agreed to jointly research emerging missile threat defence. Their integrated air and missile defence research and development will enhance security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
The two organisations will work together to understand emerging missile threats. Their partnership will leverage expertise, experience and unique facilities from both countries. The collaboration aims to develop technologies for detection, monitoring, targeting and countermeasures.
Both Canada and Australia will contribute C$237m ($169.62m) and A$237m ($154.12m), respectively up to 2029. This includes cash and in-kind contributions. The initiative aligns with Canada’s renewed defence policy, called Our North, Strong and Free, and Australia’s National Defence Strategy, agreed in April 2024. Defence against hypersonic weapons is a priority under Canada’s NORAD [North American Aerospace Defense Command] modernisation plan. Australia has also identified missile defence as a capability investment priority in its integrated investment programme. The joint research follows after the two countries strengthened their bilateral defence relationship in August 2024. Both agreed to improve the interoperability of their armed forces and will seek opportunities to reduce obstacles to collaboration, including establishing agreements to promote defence and industrial activities and enhance operational cooperation. A joint statement by National Defence of Canada Minister Bill Blair and Australia Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles read: “Canada and Australia enjoy a partnership based on shared history, values and friendship.
“We have a long history of working together on defence science and technology, including through Five Eyes Science and Technology, under the auspices of the Technical Co-operation Programme, since 1965.”
In 2023, Lockheed Martin was awarded a $106m modification contract to support Phase Two upgrades of the Australia Canada United Kingdom Reprogramming Laboratory for the F-35 joint strike fighter programme. (Source: airforce-technology.com)

25 Nov 24. BAE Systems set to resume M777 howitzer production at new Sheffield facility. BAE Systems is building a new artillery development and production facility in Sheffield in the UK. The 94,000 sq ft (8,730 sq m) facility will produce 155 mm M777 lightweight towed howitzers and support the British government’s effort to revitalise its artillery capability, according to a BAE Systems statement on 15 November. The facility will bring production of the howitzer back to the UK after it was wound down due to a lack of demand, John Borton, vice-president and general manager for BAE Systems Weapon Systems UK, told Janes on 22 November. The production facility in Barrow-in-Furness was shut down, but engineering and support personnel for the Weapon Systems UK business remained, he continued.
It is being funded with investments of more than GBP25m (USD31.5m), according to the BAE Systems statement. This includes funding from BAE Systems and the US Army, Borton told Janes. The impetus for the Sheffield facility is an undefinitised contract action (UCA), worth up to USD50m, signed with the US Army in January 2024 for major structures for the M777. The contract action enables BAE Systems to start work while the full contract is finalised. The site is expected to become operational in 2025, the statement said.
“You’ll get that back into production in support of the conflict in Ukraine, to support the armed forces,” Borton said. That contract meant that BAE Systems had to re-establish that production capability for “three major structures, which basically form the core of the chassis of the gun”, he explained. Previously, two structures were built by BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness and the third in the US supply chain, Borton noted. (Source: Janes)

26 Nov 24. Loitering munition deployed in EUCOM. Loitering munitions are emerging as an alternative means of achieving anti-armour effects with options including AeroVironment’s Switchblade 600, which features the Javelin warhead. (Aerovironment)
As the US closely monitors the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, US Army’s Low Altitude Stalking and Strike Ordnance (LASSO) has been deployed with one of the army’s transformation in contact (TIC) units in European Command (EUCOM) area of responsibility, Janes has learnt.
The service’s 10th Mountain Division has been experimenting with new capabilities alongside two other TIC formations for more than a year. While division headquarters is still in the continental US (CONUS) executing exercises like ‘Summit Strike ’24’ in Fort Drum, New York, 3rd Brigade was deployed to Romania in June 2024.
LASSO has been fielded with that formation, Lieutenant Colonel Aaron Childers, 10th Mountain Division’s G-3 Operations officer, told Janes on 21 November. The capability is one of several army efforts designed to move unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capability down to lower echelon.
While some loitering munitions are anti-personnel, LASSO is intended to take out armoured platform, meaning the attack UAVs will be on the larger side.
US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) bought Hero 120 loitering munitions in June 2024, according to a company announcement. During ‘Summit Strike ‘24′, participating USSOCOM units brought the weapons to Fort Drum, Lt Col Childers said in an interview.
The munitions were one of the several offensive effects used to prosecute electronic warfare targets. “During the exercise, our electronic warfare personnel sensed an emitter that we had built and placed out in the impact area, and then pass that target all the way forward to the team that was able to launch the loitering munition, identify the target, and destroy it,” he explained. (Source: Janes)

22 Nov 24. Belarus strengthens air defense with upgraded Tor-M2E missile systems from Russia. On November 21, 2024, the Belarussian Ministry of Defense Belarus announced that the country received another battery of Tor-M2E surface-to-air missile systems from Russia. The systems, delivered by rail, were modified by Russian designers based on operational experience, following lessons learned during recent military operations against Ukraine, including adjustments for countering small-sized aircraft. The new battery will be deployed to provide air defense coverage for Minsk and is expected to assume combat duty shortly.
Major General Andrei Lukyanovich, Commander of the Air Force and Air Defense Forces, highlighted that the systems have been adapted to counter small-sized aircraft and other threats based on their operational use. Colonel Andrei Severinchik, Chief of the Anti-Aircraft Missile Troops Directorate, noted that the systems feature short reaction times, high mobility, and the capability to target a wide range of aerial threats. He described the delivery as an example of military-technical cooperation between Belarus and Russia to strengthen the unified regional air defense system.
This delivery is part of broader defense cooperation between the two countries, which includes joint training and exercises. Russian forces have also trained Belarusian personnel in the use of the Iskander-M short-range ballistic missile system, which is reportedly capable of carrying tactical nuclear payloads. Belarus has emphasized its alignment with Russia in regional security matters, including its role in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).
Belarus has been acquiring Tor systems since 2010, with the most recent deliveries expanding its inventory to 21 Tor-M2E units as of 2023. These systems are equipped with 16 9M338K missiles, which feature increased accuracy, a wider engagement range, and reduced size and weight compared to earlier versions. The missiles are designed to operate in environments with electronic countermeasures and to defend against massed aerial attacks.
The Tor-M2E systems are integrated into Belarus’s air defense network, which also includes S-400 and Buk medium- to long-range systems, as well as older Osa and Strela platforms for short-range and point defense. The Air Force and Air Defense Forces, consisting of approximately 10,700 personnel, operate under a structure designed to coordinate with Russian forces. Belarus and Russia follow a joint defense strategy formalized in the Military Doctrine of the Union State, revised in 2021.
The Tor-M2E system is designed to provide short-range air defense for critical installations. It is capable of engaging up to 16 targets simultaneously from any direction, including objects traveling at speeds of up to 730 meters per second. The system operates effectively at ranges of up to 12 kilometers and altitudes of up to 10 kilometers, under any weather conditions and at any time of day. Key features include high mobility, short reaction times, and automated combat functionality.
The systems are expected to enhance Belarus’s air defense capabilities, particularly for the protection of the capital, Minsk. They contribute to the country’s broader defense objectives, which include adapting to modern threats and maintaining territorial security. Belarus’s defense industry focuses on manufacturing vehicles, guided weapons, and electronic warfare systems but relies on Russian technology for advanced air defense systems such as the Tor-M2E. (Source: Google/https://armyrecognition.com/)

22 Nov 24. Russian ICBM is an experimental IRBM, US states. Debate has ensued over the nature of the new Russian missile used against Ukraine: an ICBM or an IRBM?. However, a US official revealed to Army Technology that the unidentified missile was actually an Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM). It is believed that the weapon was launched from the Astrakhan region in the south of the Russian Federation. The US government spokesperson added that Russia likely possesses only a handful of these experimental missiles.
Ukraine has withstood countless attacks from Russia, including from missiles with significantly larger warheads than this weapon. The official added that the US had briefed Ukraine and close allies/partners in recent days about Russia’s possible use of this weapon to help them to prepare.
This new weapon, they assured this reporter, does not represent a game-changer in this conflict.
At present, there are no precise, public details about the new missile and the use of the weapon requires further analysis. An investigation is currently ongoing according to Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence (MoD).
In a post on the social media platform X, the MoD suggested that the weapon is “a new Russian missile” and that “all its characteristics – speed, altitude – align with those of an ICBM.”
A new Russian IRBM
“There’s debate as to the nature of the missile (ICBM or IRBM),” GlobalData defence analyst Tristan Sauer noted, “but the political objective is, in my opinion, much clearer.
“The use of a weapon with Multiple Independent Re-entry vehicle (MIRV) capabilities, usually reserved for weapons with nuclear payloads, is aimed at generating debates over Russia’s potential use of tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine.”
“This follows on from Putin signing a new nuclear doctrine earlier in the week, more of Putin’s sabre rattling to rattle the minds of the incoming US administration and further undermine Ukrainian morale before [president-elect Donald] Trump takes office.”
An ICBM is defined by convention as a ballistic missile which has a range in excess of 5,500km. IRBMs, meanwhile, generally have ranges of between 3,000km and 5,500km and are above medium-range ballistic missiles, and short-range ballistic missiles (like ATACMS or the Iskander missiles).
Furthermore, Russia’s use of an IRBM may also indicate the effectiveness of the US decision to lift restrictions on long-range weapons inside Russia.
According to the Institute for the Study of War, on the night of 19-20 November, Ukraine conducted a successful combined strike against military assets in the Russian rear using drones and Western-provided long-range weapons.
Ukraine’s increased strikes, which reach ever deeper inside Russian territory, may lead Russian forces to start striking Ukraine from much further away.
Escalation
If Ukrainian reports are indeed true, then this would constitute an escalatory move as the first time an ICBM has been used in the conflict, and in a wider tit-for-tat exchange between the nuclear powers in the West, notably the US, and Russia.
Russian president Vladimir Putin has increasingly resorted to nuclear diplomacy as a way to prevent the West from providing Ukraine with any strategic advantage on the battlefield.
Recently, the US president Joe Biden approved Ukraine’s use of American-manufactured long-range weapons, such as the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), inside Russia in response to the mobilisation of several thousand North Korean troops in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian troops are holding on to what little Russian territory they can ahead of any future negotiations.
A proliferated use of long-range capabilities inside Russia has been requested in the last several months, and although it comes late in the conflict, it will help Ukraine deprive the Russians of critical war potential – ammunition depots, airstrips – it has in its own territory.
(Source: army-technology.com)
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21 Nov 24. British Army completes first live firing of next-generation howitzer in Finland. The British Army has completed the first live firing of a next-generation howitzer in Finland in one of the largest series of NATO artillery exercises ever conducted in Europe.

The Archer Mobile Howitzer. MOD Crown Copyright.

The British Army demonstrated the Archer Mobile Howitzer – an artillery system with fully automated gun designed for rapid deployment.
The first in the series of Exercise Dynamic Front 25 involved 5,000 soldiers, including 350 deployed by the British Army.
This is the first time Finland has hosted a major international military exercise since becoming a NATO member in April 2023.

British Army personnel have demonstrated a first live firing of a next-generation howitzer amidst freezing conditions in one of the largest series of NATO artillery exercises ever conducted in Europe.

As temperatures plummeted to -3 degrees celsius just outside the Arctic Circle, 350 Army personnel joined soldiers from 28 countries – including NATO’s newest member Finland – on Exercise Dynamic Front 25.

During the 12 days of training, which began on the 14 November, the Army demonstrated its capability by conducting its first live firing on exercise with the Archer Mobile Howitzer – an artillery system with fully automated gun designed for rapid deployment. The system, which can fire more than eight rounds a minute at a range of 50km, was procured at speed from Sweden last year.

Also demonstrated in training were the enemy artillery detection radar, TAIPAN, and the UK’s Multiple Launch Rocket System, which can fire up to 12 rockets or missiles in less than a minute.

The training is the first in a wider NATO Dynamic Front 25 series, which takes place across four more countries in the coming months and aims to coordinate live fire artillery capabilities between allied nations from the Arctic Circle to the Black Sea. The exercise reinforces the government’s ‘NATO first’ defence strategy which has seen it set European security as its defence priority and commit to spending 2.5% of GDP on defence.

Minister for the Armed Forces Luke Pollard MP said:

The successful live firing of the powerful Archer Mobile Howitzer shows we are equipping our Armed Forces with the latest battle-winning weaponry to help keep the UK secure at home and strong abroad.

This joint exercise reiterates our unshakeable commitment to NATO and demonstrates our collective readiness to meet emerging threats and deter aggression across Europe.

The exercise focused on advanced NATO technology, with soldiers connecting different military systems from multiple members of the alliance. This allowed shared information to rapidly direct responses across the field.

This comes a month after the UK announced it will strengthen NATO’s eastern flank with a new defence roadmap signed with Estonia. The joint declaration will see thousands of UK troops held at high readiness, ready to defend NATO’s eastern flank, in addition to those deployed in Estonia. It will also boost cooperation on developing long range missiles with NATO Allies, improving the alliance’s collective air defence and offering opportunities to UK defence industry.

It is the first time Finland has hosted a major international military exercise since becoming a NATO member following Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. It takes place as Ukraine marked 1,000 days of the war on 19 November. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

20 Nov 24. BAE to Develop Advanced Electronic Warfare Countermeasures to Protect US Army Combat Vehicles. Multi-Class Soft-Kill System guards against guided missiles and adjacent threats. BAE Systems was awarded a follow-on contract from the U.S. Army to further develop its Multi-Class Soft Kill System (MCSKS) countermeasures to protect ground combat vehicles against guided missiles and adjacent threats, improving vehicle survivability and mission success. Under the MCSKS contract, BAE Systems will further develop its laser-based Stormcrow™ and TERRA RAVEN™ countermeasure systems, advancing the Army’s electronic warfare (EW)-based Active Protection System (APS) work. The advanced systems effectively counter threats and allow crews to conserve kinetic countermeasures.

“Today’s combat vehicles need active protection systems that quickly and efficiently counter modern threats,” said Jared Belinsky, director of Integrated Survivability Solutions at BAE Systems. “Missile countermeasures are part of our full-spectrum approach to electromagnetic warfare. We’re creating an Intrepid Shield™ around our customers’ platforms – improving their effectiveness on the battlefield.”

BAE Systems’ active protection systems provide next-generation layered defense capabilities for vehicles and maritime platforms, leveraging advanced electro-optic/infrared (EO/IR) and radio-frequency (RF) spectrum technologies. The systems are small, modular, lightweight, rugged, and cost-efficient. They use multi-function sensors, intelligent processing, and electromagnetic emitters to provide enhanced situational awareness and threat response in all weather and lighting conditions and in challenging terrain and complex battlespaces.

BAE Systems has provided combat-proven aircraft survivability equipment to the U.S. Department of Defense and its allies for decades and is an innovator in full-spectrum electromagnetic warfare technology. The MCSKS contract builds on the company’s successful execution of the Advanced Layered Soft Kill System (ALSKS) and the Layered Soft Kill System (LSKS) development programs, including several successful capability demonstrations. The company’s vehicle protection systems are developed and manufactured at its state-of-the-art facility in Austin, Texas with research and development support from the company’s FAST Labs™ organization in Merrimack, New Hampshire. (Source: ASD Network)

19 Nov 24. LM’s Precision Strike Missile Proves Effective in Double Shot. Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) and the U.S. Army successfully completed another Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) production qualification flight test at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico.

During the test, a HIMARS launched two PrSM missiles in a mid-range flight against a target set proving the system’s continued accuracy and readiness.

“PrSM demonstrates exceptional system performance and reliability,” said Carolyn Orzechowski, Vice President of Precision Fires Launchers and Missiles at Lockheed Martin.

“We continue to advance this credible deterrent, integrating 21st Century Security® technologies into the baseline and future variants in support of cross domain and maritime operations.”

The test validates production and follows the fourth Early Operational Capability (EOC) contract, awarded in March.

PrSM is the U.S. Army’s next generation long-range precision strike missile capable of neutralizing targets out to more than 400 kilometers. The new surface-to-surface weapon features an open systems architecture design for maximum affordability and flexibility, is modular for future growth and is M142 HIMARS and M270A2 MLRS compatible. (Source: ASD Network)

14 Nov 24. LD-3000: China’s 11-Barrel Air Defense System. China has introduced the LD-3000, an advanced 11-barrel air defense system designed to intercept low-flying threats, including drones, cruise missiles, and artillery. Developed by the state-owned NORINCO Group, the trailer-mounted system is equipped with a 30mm Gatling cannon capable of firing 12,000 rounds per minute. It features integrated radar with a detection range of 15 kilometers and electro-optical sensors for all-weather operations.

The LD-3000 builds on the naval Type 1130 and earlier LD-2000 systems, which were designed to defend against missiles and precision-guided munitions. Analysts compare the LD-3000 to the U.S. Centurion C-RAM, as both systems are designed to protect critical installations from aerial threats. However, the LD-3000’s 30mm ammunition provides greater destructive power and range than its U.S. counterpart’s 20mm rounds.

While its primary role is to counter drones and missiles, the system could also address threats like loitering munitions and mortar shells. The LD-3000 may be adopted by China’s military or offered for export, targeting regions where drone warfare is a growing concern. (Source: https://www.sofx.com/)

18 Nov 24. NGC Delivers Stand-in Attack Weapon Test Missile to the USAF. Delivery initiates SiAW flight test program. Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has delivered the Stand-in Attack Weapon (SiAW) test missile, which is designed to verify that the launch aircraft can safely carry and separate the weapon. SiAW is an air-to-ground weapon that will provide strike capability to defeat rapidly relocatable targets as part of an enemy’s anti-access/area denial environment.

The U.S. Air Force awarded the SiAW contract to Northrop Grumman in September 2023. The company is continuing to develop the weapon, conduct platform integration and complete the flight test program for rapid prototyping and fielding by 2026. (Source: ASD Network)

18 Nov 24. Poland signs agreement with domestic companies to manufacture explosives. The Polish government has signed a letter of intent with domestic companies to make the nitrocellulose and multi-base powders necessary for producing ammunition, it said on Monday. Since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Poland has taken significant steps to bolster its defensive capabilities in the event of future conflict.

“It is the first step towards rebuilding Polish ammunition production capabilities,” Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz said in a statement.

State-owned companies Grupa Azoty, Polish Armaments Group (PGZ) and Mesko agree on the need to establish a nitrocellulose and multi-base powders factory, Grupa Azoty said in a statement.

Poland currently imports explosives from Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, France, Finland, Switzerland and Canada.

The Polish government announced plans this month to invest 3bn zlotys ($750m) to boost ammunition production.

“No one who observes the war in Ukraine and other conflicts in the world today can have any doubts about how important it is to have access to a large amount of ammunition for modern weapons,” Kosiniak-Kamysz added.

Marcin Idzik, a PGZ board member, told Reuters this year that Poland needed to produce 155mm artillery rounds in order to ensure sufficient supplies if Russia attacks NATO. (Source: Reuters)

18 Nov 24. PLA Air Force showcases new reconnaissance-strike UCAV. China unveiled a new reconnaissance and strike unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) at Airshow China 2024. A new unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) shown at Airshow China 2024 may potentially be a replacement for older variants of the Wing Loong series of unmanned platforms in Chinese air force service. The new UCAV, which was displayed by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) at the biennial defence show at Zhuhai, appeared outwardly similar to the Aerospace Long-March International Trade Company Ltd (ALIT)/China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) CH-5C/CH-9 high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) UAV.

The PLAAF officially labelled the platform as a new type of “reconnaissance and strike” UCAV, without specifying its designation. The UCAV was also displayed with PLA insignia and appeared in an uncharacteristic light grey colour scheme.

According to the state-owned newspaper, Global Times, the UCAV is capable of conducting tactical reconnaissance, surveillance, and attack operations.

Citing the PLAAF, the newspaper added that the UCAV can be equipped with “optoelectronic reconnaissance equipment, synthetic aperture radar, [and] communication and reconnaissance systems”. According to the PLAAF, the UCAV is capable of attacking “fixed, mobile, and time-sensitive targets on the ground and on water surface”, the newspaper said.

According to the Global Times, the new UCAV will provide the PLAAF with improved capabilities over the existing Wing Loong-2 (WL-2) armed reconnaissance UAV. However, the new UCAV has a five-bladed turboprop engine, unlike the three-bladed propeller of the WL-2. (Source: Janes)

18 Nov 24. India conducts first test of long-range hypersonic missile. India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has conducted a flight test of the country’s first long-range hypersonic missile, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced on 16 November. The missile was launched from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha, on India’s eastern coast.

“This hypersonic missile is designed to carry various payloads for ranges greater than 1,500 km for the armed forces,” the MoD said. “The missile was tracked by various range systems, deployed in multiple domains. The flight data obtained from down-range ship stations confirmed successful terminal manoeuvres and impact with high degree of accuracy.”

According to the MoD, the long-range hypersonic missile was developed by DRDO laboratories, the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex (formerly the DRDO Missile Complex) in Hyderabad, as well as local industry.

An image of the test distributed to media by the Indian government’s Press Information Bureau showed the missile being launched from a mobile launch vehicle. In this image, the canister cap – designed to protect the missile in storage and transportation – appeared lodged in the missile’s nose during its launch.

The image also showed that both the missile and the canister were labelled ‘LR-02′, possibly indicating that the latest test was India’s second of this capability. It is possible, but not confirmed, that the initial test in 2023 featured a weapon known as the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile, which the MoD confirmed in its 2023 end-of-year-review.

The MoD said the test of the long-range hypersonic missile was a success but provided no additional details about the test or the missile. The DRDO had not responded to Janes at the time of publication. (Source: Janes)

18 Nov 24. ISTEC delivers first batch of weapon integration mounts for the new USAF Grey Wolf Helicopter. ISTEC Services Limited, the British company with 35 years of operationally proven experience in the design, manufacture and supply of complex weapon integration solutions for military platforms, is delivering the first production shipsets (a shipset is a left and right gun mount pair) for the new United States Air Force (USAF) Grey Wolf Helicopter. The USAF Grey Wolf helicopter is a Boeing led programme for the replacement of the famous, but aging, UH-1N Huey helicopter and is built on a Leonardo MH-139A platform. ISTEC has recently delivered the first shipsets to Leonardo and the USAF took delivery of the first low-rate production Grey Wolf helicopter in August 2024.

The Grey Wolf offers significant improvements in terms of speed, range, and payload capacity compared to the Huey. It also features modern avionics, defensive systems, and a more robust airframe, making it suitable for a wide range of missions. The ISTEC weapons mount contract was originally awarded in 2018 and following prototype design and customer testing, to ensure the maximum arcs, ease of use and air safety compliance, final design approval was granted in 2020. Full production started in 2023, and following the delivery of the first shipsets, the remainder of the contract will be aligned with the wider programme delivery schedule.

ISTEC has extensive experience in providing weapons integration solutions for the Land, Sea and Air domains. However, there were many additional elements to the Grey Wolf project such as an external mounting frame that required significant additional design input from the ISTEC team. All the Grey Wolf components are manufactured with a ‘cradle to grave’ traceability process to ensure all raw materials sourced are to aerospace release, with full audit back to the mill, regular composition testing to ensure material alloying elements are above specification and thereby ensuring that the gun mounts meet the rigorous manufacturing standards required to be classed as airworthy and type certified.

Mick Coulson, Manager Director at ISTEC said, “This has been a significant project for ISTEC, supporting a major helicopter replacement programme for the USAF, that we have been privileged to have been involved with from the very start. ISTEC is well known for our universal gun mount systems, especially on vehicles and ships, but I am extremely proud of the design and engineering expertise that has gone into producing this aviation specific system for the Grey Wolf, clearly demonstrating the universal benefits of using our weapon integration systems across all domains.”

18 Nov 24. Sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT has once again demonstrated its technological capabilities as part of the multinational ‘Timber Express 2024’ exercise. The OPTARION mission support system (german: EUA for Einsatzunterstützungsanlage) successfully integrated NH90 and TIGER helicopters in a secure data link network and connected them to modern command and information systems.

“Seamless connectivity and the secure exchange of situational information between different weapon systems are crucial for today’s hybrid operations on the battlefield,” explains Alex Irmscher, programme manager for ground stations at HENSOLDT. “Thanks to our EUA solutions, it was possible to integrate the aircraft into the Bundeswehr’s digital command network without having to modify the weapon system.”

The centrepiece of the demonstration was the transmission of real-time data between the helicopters and other platforms along the ‘sensor-to-effector’ chain. A special feature was the connection of the platforms to the “SitaWare HQ” battle management system and the real-time integration into Link-16, the standardised tactical data link network used by NATO and partner nations. This networking helps the armed forces to create a unified situation picture and improve decision-making in complex scenarios.

A core aspect of the OPTARION mission support system is its ability to increase the operational efficiency and deployment flexibility of the armed forces. In an increasingly network-centric warfare, it enables the linking of different platforms and systems via secure data links, creating a common and dynamic situation picture. This network-centric operations capability not only improves real-time decision-making, but also ensures a high level of interoperability. This makes OPTARION a key component for modern combat operations and provides the armed forces with the technological basis for successfully operating in complex and rapidly changing threat scenarios.

Innovation in the field: EUA NT and modular technology

During the exercise, functionalities from the EUA NT (new technologies) modernisation project were already in use. These include the modular radio concept for flexible antenna and radio operation and innovative data network technologies that ensure increased interoperability.

What is “Timber Express”?

“Timber Express” is an annual multinational exercise that focuses on the cooperation and interoperability of air forces. Various NATO countries take part in this exercise to jointly train the skills needed to lead and coordinate air operations in complex scenarios. The aim is to optimise the networking and data exchange between aircraft and command systems while ensuring the security requirements for the transmission of information.

17 Nov 24. Spear – Cruise missile of the future completes firing.

Royal Navy and Royal Air Force pilots will benefit from a cutting-edge new cruise missile, following the first successful guided firing trial of the missile.

Cutting-edge missile successfully fires from Typhoon test platform.
Ability to hit a range of targets more than 100km away.
New missile backs hundreds of UK jobs.

Royal Navy and Royal Air Force pilots will benefit from a cutting-edge new cruise missile, following the first successful guided firing trial of the SPEAR missile.

SPEAR, which is a next generation turbojet-powered miniature cruise missile, successfully completed the trial after being fired from a BAE Systems-operated Typhoon jet at Vidsel range in Sweden. This most recent trial was the first time the weapons system had been fired against a target, signifying a major leap forward in the programmes development.

Each missile can hit targets from 100km away and is designed to be used against a range of targets, including air defences, ships, tanks, defended structures and fast-moving vehicles. Once in service it will be fitted to Britain’s F-35B fighter jets and allow the military to strike targets both from land and Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers.

SPEAR autonomously navigated to the target via customisable routes before using its advanced all-weather radar seeker to map the target area, and using the radiofrequency imagery to successfully engage it.

Developed in the UK by MBDA, work on SPEAR supports several hundred jobs among MBDA’s 5,500-strong UK workforce, with design work mainly in Stevenage and Bristol and manufacturing in Bolton.

Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard said: “The successful trial of the pioneering SPEAR missile marks a significant leap forward in UK Armed Forces’ capabilities, ensuring our Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel are equipped with cutting-edge technology to protect our nation. This achievement not only strengthens national defence capabilities but also boosts the UK economy, by supporting high-skilled jobs and innovation.”

F-35B jets will be able to carry up to eight SPEAR missiles at a time, providing the next generation of long-range air-to-surface missiles. This guided firing trial marks a critical milestone in the development of the SPEAR programme, which provides the next generation of stand-off air-to-surface missiles for Suppression of Enemy Air Defences missions in challenging and complex operating environments.

The trial, which used a telemetry unit instead of a live warhead, demonstrated the release, gather and long-range free-flight control of the missile following a high-altitude and high-speed release.

Mike Mew, Tactical Strike Director of MBDA, said: “SPEAR is a truly unique weapon system – the first to offer the range, flexibility, precision and load-out to defeat modern enemy air defences.

The success of this trial is thanks to excellent joint working from teams across MOD, BAE Systems and MBDA. SPEAR is part of a wider portfolio which supports £6.5bn of planned investment in the UK weapons industry by the MOD over the next decade – which includes other missile programmes such as Brimstone, CAMM, Sea Viper, Sea Venom and Storm Shadow, putting the UK at the forefront of future weapons development.”

Matthew Brown, SPEAR Team Leader at DE&S, said: “This trial was a key step on the way to delivering SPEAR to the UK frontline, where it will provide a new capability to defeat the most complex air defence systems, enabling pilots to fly and fight wherever they’re needed in defence of the UK and its allies.”

The SPEAR programme is being managed by Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), the Ministry of Defence (MOD) procurement executive agency. A joint MOD and industry team conducted this first in a series of SPEAR guided flight trials.

Chris Moon, BAE Systems’ UK Delivery Director for Typhoon Capability, said: “This successful firing from Typhoon is as a result of the hard work and outstanding collaboration between MBDA, MoD and BAE Systems personnel over many months. We now look forward to the next phase of SPEAR 3 trials, as well as delivering the testing of many other world-leading capabilities in support of the RAF Typhoon Force.” (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

17 Nov 24. Spanish Navy shifts focus from Harpoon to Naval Strike Missile for S-80 submarines. The Spanish Navy has decided to forgo plans to equip its S-80 submarines with the Boeing submarine-launched Harpoon missiles as initially intended. This decision follows the U.S. Navy’s announcement to discontinue the submarine-launched Harpoon programme and withdraw the missile from service in the medium term.

Instead, the Navy is considering adopting the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) developed by Norwegian company Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. Already selected for Spain’s future F-100 frigates, the NSM is now being evaluated for use in its submarine-launched variant.

To this end, the Navy has tasked Navantia, a Spanish shipbuilding company, with conducting a technical study to integrate the NSM into the S-80 series submarines. This contract, valued at EUR 240,000, builds on an earlier allocation of nearly half a m euros for preliminary integration activities.

The Navy has clarified that the submarine-launched Harpoon and NSM missiles will not coexist on the S-80 submarines. “After verifying the pre-feasibility of integrating and launching the missile from an S-80 submarine while submerged, it is necessary to conduct a technical study that develops certain conceptual aspects of a technical, operational, logistical, industrial, and security nature,” the Navy explained.

The main goal of the study, it added, is to provide a conceptual framework for the proposed solution, assess associated risks, and inform decisions about the project’s formal initiation and industrial participation scheme.

The Navy highlighted that the primary reason for discontinuing the submarine-launched Harpoon missile acquisition is the U.S. Navy’s decision to end its support for the programme. “It has recently become known that the U.S. Navy will not continue with the submarine-launched Harpoon in any of its configurations or blocks,” it stated.

While the NSM is a strong contender, the Navy has clarified that it is not yet a definitive choice. The technical study will guide the final decision. “Among the missiles that best fit the needs of the Navy is the future version of the NSM missile launched from submarines,” the Navy concluded. (Source: Google/https://defence-industry.eu/)

18 Nov 24. Thales and NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) have signed a contract for the supply of a ForceShield system to the Portuguese Army, which is designed to reinforce Portugal’s very short-range air defence (VSHORAD) capabilities. It meets NATO requirements, which encourages its members to increase their VSHORAD capabilities, improve theatre protection and defend against high-visibility threats.

This ForceShield contract is the first contract for Thales in a European Union country and part of the long-term Military Programming Law (LPM), which defines the strategic framework for the modernization of the Armed Forces’ in-service equipment.
The ForceShield solution acquired includes a Ground Master 200 air surveillance radar, a radio communications system, Air Defence command-and-control centre ControlView together with portable weapon allocation terminals, RapidRanger vehicles with LMM and StarStreak effectors.

Thales is pleased to announce the signing of a contract with NSPA, for the acquisition of a ForceShield system by the Portuguese Army. This is a landmark contract, not only because it is the first signed for the benefit of the Portuguese Army by Thales, but also because it is the first ForceShield contract that Thales has signed with a European country. The contract is designed to strengthen Portugal’s very short-range air defence (VSHORAD) capabilities.

ForceShield is Thales’s air defence solution, designed to protect forces, citizens and critical infrastructure from an increasingly diverse range of airborne threats – from low-altitude threats such as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to helicopters, fighter ground attacks or cruise missiles.

ForceShield provides appropriate components to detect, coordinate, engage and neutralise threats. The contract includes a complete ForceShield Compact solution, with a Ground Master 200 air surveillance radar, a radio communications system, Air Defence command-and-control centre ControlView together with portable weapon allocation terminals. This air defence system includes as well RapidRanger vehicles with StarStreak high velocity Air Defence Missile and Lightweight Multirole Missile (LMM) anti-armour missiles.

The Ground Master 200 radar establishes tracks faster and keeps them locked for longer; hence maximising situational awareness for optimum engagement. This gives time to the ControlView to evaluate the threat, while allocating the appropriate firing units for air target engagement through each weapon terminal.

RapidRanger is a unique lightweight, vehicle based, highly automated system capable of delivering a rapid reaction response to air and surface threats. It will be fitted with StarStreak and LMM missiles.

15 Nov 24. India completes ‘guided’ Pinaka flight tests. India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has completed flight tests of a “precision strike” variant of its Pinaka multiple rocket launcher (MRL) before commissioning it into the Indian Army.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) in New Delhi announced on 14 November that the Pinaka tests were completed as part of trials for the army but did not state where the trials were conducted. The MoD also referred to the MRL as the ‘guided Pinaka weapon system’.

It said the guided Pinaka tests were conducted in “three phases at different field firing ranges” as part of “provisional staff qualitative requirements (PSQR) validation trials”.

“During these tests, the PSQR parameters [for] ranging, accuracy, consistency, and rate of fire for multiple target engagement in a salvo mode [were] assessed by extensive testing of rockets,” the MoD said.

It added that 12 guided rockets “from each production agency from two in-service Pinaka launchers upgraded by the launcher production agencies [were] tested”.

The MoD cited DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat as saying that the “rocket system has completed all prerequisite flight trials before induction into the Indian Army”.

According to the MoD, the upgraded “precision strike variant” of the Pinaka MRL has been designed and developed by the DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in collaboration with other DRDO agencies. These include Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Research Centre Imarat (RCI), and High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL). (Source: Janes)

15 Nov 24. UK considers improvements to Boxer survivability. British Army Major Mark Lewis, Senior Officer 2 (SO2) Boxer Futures, outlined “areas of interest” for upgrading the vehicle’s survivability on the last day of SAE Media Group’s Future Armoured Vehicles Survivability (FAVS) 2024 conference held in London from 11 to 13 November. Those areas include human-machine interface (HMI), active protection systems (APSs) composite armour, and using uncrewed systems with Boxer. The latter would use Boxer as a mother ship for uncrewed air and ground vehicles, with the possibility of the armoured vehicle also being unmanned. HMI could be used to improve the employment of the Boxer’s fire-control system and battle management system, according to Maj Lewis. He noted that another way to improve Boxer survivability is by increasing its lethality. He said the vehicle’s RS4 remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS) could be replaced by the RS6 RCWS and spoke about giving it a counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) capability with the use of airburst and programmable munition and, further in the future, directed energy weapons. Javelin missiles could increase the Boxer’s anti-armour capabilities, and the Mounted Close Combat Overwatch (MCCO) variant could increase the Boxer’s range to 10 km. Greater range and therefore lethality could also be achieved with the introduction of the Boxer Armoured Mortar, according to Maj Lewis. He said Boxer mobility could be increased, initially with front-end engineering equipment and then by novel suspension systems and hybrid electric drives. (Source: Janes)

About Galvion:

MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

November 8, 2024 by

Sponsored by Galvion

www.galvion.com

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07 Nov 24. Galvion delivers an order of 400 MAX-8 Mission Adaptive Charging Stations to AeroVironment. Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of integrated power and data management solutions and innovative head protection systems, has delivered the first order of its Nerv Centr® MAX-8 Mission Adaptive Charging Stationâ„¢ to the US defense tech company, AeroVironment (AV). The initial order of 400 units will be followed-up with an additional 800, to be delivered during 2025 and 2026 as part of a Long-Term Purchasing agreement.

AV is a leading provider of innovative, lightweight, and reliable uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), specializing in versatile solutions designed for tactical reconnaissance and surveillance. Galvion’s MAX-8 has been integrated to deliver intelligent and adaptable charging for AV’s UAS battery systems, replacing the existing solution. Following close collaboration and extensive testing, Galvion successfully designed a universal adaptor that enables the MAX-8 to interface across AV’s small uncrewed aircraft systems (SUAS). This partnership extends beyond the initial orders, as the two companies will collaborate on future UAS charging solutions to meet evolving needs and drive continued product innovation

Galvion’s Nerv Centr® MAX-8 is a portable charging solution built to withstand the harsh conditions of expeditionary operations, where UAS operations are becoming increasingly vital. With the ability to draw power from multiple sources, including AC, solar and vehicle, the MAX-8 battery adapters offer the ability to charge different types of UAS and other batteries simultaneously, with no setting changes needed. The MAX-8 features intelligent functionality, including prioritization of needs, topping off the fullest battery first, automatic evaluation of power source and adjustment of charge rates to maximize power and minimize charge time.

“AV is proud to partner with Galvion for our battery power management solutions for our small UAS. This Universal Battery Charger provides our customers with seamless plug-and-play functionality, featuring universal adapters that enable efficient charging for all of AV’s current and future batteries across both our small UAS and ground control stations,â€ said Mike Jorgens, AV’s sr. product line manager.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion, said: “Our relationship with AV is a great example of Galvion’s commitment to developing productive collaborations with industry partners to better serve the warfighter. AV is recognized as a leader in designing and delivering innovative UAS solutions; Galvion is an expert in power management and charging together, we can accelerate the pace of innovation by helping AV focus on UAS systems, while we concentrate on maximizing operational efficiency by keeping them charged.” He added: “With this initial order of 400 MAX-8 charging stations and customized adaptor delivered, and another 800 in the pipeline, we’re very much looking forward to building our relationship with AV and finding opportunities to further drive industry advancements.”

05 Nov 24. At Euronaval 2024, MBDA is presenting Sea Warden, a naval-based defence system against un-crewed aerial and surface threats, ready to market. Building on our experience in counter un-crewed aerial systems (C-UAS) through Sky Warden, Sea Warden is a modular system to counter all un-crewed aerial vehicle (UAV) and un-crewed submersible vehicle (USV) threats, integrating and controlling a wide range of sensors and effectors. Sea Warden is the response to the need for self-protection of merchant vessels and warships, now and in the future.

Protecting sovereign interests

The maritime domain is a significant component of the global economy. For the countries seeking to protect their sovereign interests, naval forces have to respond appropriately to multiple areas of action. From the lower end of the spectrum – with asymmetric threats like drones – to higher-end anti-ship systems. Therefore, emerging threats at sea come in new and ever-changing forms. Faced with this reality, Navies must deploy a range of resources to protect their assets, sometimes in combination. To stay agile, MBDA has developed a scalable system designed to evolve at the same rapid speed as the drone threat to meet the changing demands of our customers and ensure battle readiness.

Working with partners

Sea Warden can operate in all modern scenarios, from self-protection of ships at anchor or docked to maritime consort protection in open oceans. By leveraging its modular design, Sea Warden is the only comprehensive defence system ranging from detection to neutralization of UAVs and USVs up to class 2. MBDA is working with its partners to integrate capabilities to deliver the appropriate military effect. The system is designed to identify and classify threats with a complete set of sensors (radar, passive RF, electro-optical cameras, etc.) and assign the most appropriate and available effector, maximizing the efficiency. Sea Warden integrates, for example, effectors such as directed energy weapon – with the CILAS HELMA-P laser –, hunter drones, jammers, and MBDA systems including a Hit-to-Kill drone – in collaboration with NOVADEM –, loitering munitions and the MISTRAL 3 and AKERON MP missiles for the most demanding aerial and surface threats.

Meeting customer requirements

To cope with evolving missions, Sea Warden has been designed with an open architecture that enables it to be configured to meet specific customer requirements. It can be integrated into ships’ combat systems, or operate as a standalone capability with a dedicated console. It can be adapted effectively to any existing or future naval, maritime, or offshore platform to defeat any aerial or surface un-crewed threat.

Today, Sea Warden is the only battle-ready system to manage the full counter-UAV (C-UAV) counter-USV (C-USV) kill chain. MBDA has demonstrated the capability of its Sky Warden system in a recent successful operational demonstration.

Excellence at your side

With Sea Warden, Navies can rely on MBDA’s expertise to cover a multi-layered air defence systems portfolio. MBDA is the sole European player that’s provide a full range of the most advanced naval-based air defence systems, from C-UAV/C-USV systems to systems that defend against the most high-end threats.

07 Nov 24. X-59 Fires Up its Engine for First Time on Its Way to Takeoff.

NASA’s Quesst mission marked a major milestone with the start of tests on the engine that will power the quiet supersonic X-59 experimental aircraft.

These engine-run tests, which began Oct. 30, allow the X-59 team to verify the aircraft’s systems are working together while powered by its own engine. In previous tests, the X-59 used external sources for power. The engine-run tests set the stage for the next phase of the experimental aircraft’s progress toward flight.

The X-59 team is conducting the engine-run tests in phases. In this first phase, the engine rotated at a relatively low speed without ignition to check for leaks and ensure all systems are communicating properly. The team then fueled the aircraft and began testing the engine at low power, with the goal of verifying that it and other aircraft systems operate without anomalies or leaks while on engine power.

“The first phase of the engine tests was really a warmup to make sure that everything looked good prior to running the engine,” said Jay Brandon, NASA’s X-59 chief engineer. “Then we moved to the actual first engine start. That took the engine out of the preservation mode that it had been in since installation on the aircraft. It was the first check to see that it was operating properly and that all the systems it impacted – hydraulics, electrical system, environmental control systems, etc. – seemed to be working.”

The X-59 will generate a quieter thump rather than a loud boom while flying faster than the speed of sound. The aircraft is the centerpiece of NASA’s Quesst mission, which will gather data on how people perceive these thumps, providing regulators with information that could help lift current bans on commercial supersonic flight over land.

The engine, a modified F414-GE-100, packs 22,000 pounds of thrust, which will enable the X-59 to achieve the desired cruising speed of Mach 1.4 (925 miles per hour) at an altitude of approximately 55,000 feet. It sits in a nontraditional spot – atop the aircraft — to aid in making the X-59 quieter.

Engine runs are part of a series of integrated ground tests needed to ensure safe flight and successful achievement of mission goals. Because of the challenges involved with reaching this critical phase of testing, the X-59’s first flight is now expected in early 2025. The team will continue progressing through critical ground tests and address any technical issues discovered with this one-of-a-kind, experimental aircraft. The X-59 team will have a more specific first flight date as these tests are successfully completed.

The testing is taking place at Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works facility in Palmdale, California. During later phases, the team will test the aircraft at high power with rapid throttle changes, followed by simulating the conditions of an actual flight.

“The success of these runs will be the start of the culmination of the last eight years of my career,” said Paul Dees, NASA’s deputy propulsion lead for the X-59. “This isn’t the end of the excitement but a small steppingstone to the beginning. It’s like the first note of a symphony, where years of teamwork behind the scenes are now being put to the test to prove our efforts have been effective, and the notes will continue to play a harmonious song to flight.”

After the engine runs, the X-59 team will move to aluminum bird testing, where data will be fed to the aircraft under both normal and failure conditions. The team will then proceed with a series of taxi tests, where the aircraft will be put in motion on the ground. These tests will be followed by final preparations for first flight. (Source: ASD Network)

07 Nov 24. Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) has received a contract from the U.S. Marine Corps for long lead items, signaling the start of full-rate production for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle 30mm program (ACV-30). The items included in the $51m contract through PEO Land Systems Program Manager Advanced Amphibious Assault (PM AAA) are subcomponents specific to the 30mm remote turret, manufactured by KONGSBERG in Johnstown, Penn.

“The ACV-30 provides a significant increase in lethality for dismounted Marines. PM AAA is looking forward to a longstanding partnership with Kongsberg Defence through this direct contract between the two organizations. The opportunities gained will ensure Marines have what they need to support Marine Corps warfighting needs,” said Col Tim Hough, Program Manager for Advanced Amphibious Assault at PEO Land Systems.

ACV-30 is one of four variants in the next-generation ACV family of vehicles designed, developed and built by BAE Systems, providing the U.S. Marine Corps with ship to shore capability in what will be a full replacement of the Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAV). The ACV-30 variant mounts a stabilized, remotely operated Medium Caliber Turret (MCT-30) manufactured by KONGSBERG that provides the lethality and protection Marines need while leaving ample room for troop capacity and payload while keeping the crew under armor. The remote turret eliminates the space requirement of legacy turreted cannon systems and provides more room to transport troops or mission essential equipment, and reduces weight for better mobility.

“This agreement is an important milestone for the U.S. Marine Corps ACV-30 program, enabling rapid deliveries when full-rate production starts. We are pleased that US Marine Corp has selected the highly advanced 30mm PROTECTOR remote turret system from KONGSBERG in the program,” said Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

The U.S. Marine Corps is continuing to grow its relationship with the PROTECTOR family of remote weapon systems and remote turrets from Kongsberg, providing streamlined training and sustainment as well as wireless fire control and future technology and effector integration.

The $51m contract is part of a framework agreement (“undefinitized contract action”) worth up to $329m announced on 4 November.

06 Nov 24. High-profile delegates from the Ministry of National Guard (MNG) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia visited a ROK Army firing range on November 5 to observe a combined firepower demonstration of South Korean major weapons systems.

H.R.H. Prince Abdullah bin Bandar bin Abdulazia Al Saud, Minister of MNG, led the group at the invitation of the South Korean Ministry of National Defense and Hanwha Aerospace, the largest defense manufacturer in Korea, as part of efforts to expand bilateral defense partnership.

A variety of Hanwha’s artillery and combat vehicles demonstrated their proven combat capabilities during the live-fire exercise, which was observed by the MNG delegates as well as South Korean delegates from the Ministry of National Defense, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, and Hanwha Aerospace.

During the drill, a batch of 18 K9A1 Self-Propelled Howitzers intensively launched more than 90 rounds into a target area, while K30W Chunho (Sky Tiger) anti-aircraft gun wheeled armored vehicles and K30 Biho (Flying Tiger) self-propelled anti-aircraft systems fired heavy machine guns at aerial targets. The K21 Infantry Fighting Vehicle showed its outstanding amphibious maneuverability on the battlefield.

The event also included the showcase of newly developing combat platforms optimized for the KSA requirements. Among them are the 155mm Wheeled Self-Propelled Howitzer fitted with an automated unmanned turret; the Laser-Based Anti-Aircraft Weapon; the TIGON wheeled armored vehicle equipped either with anti-tank guided missiles or 120mm mortar; the Hybrid Short-Range Air Defense (H-SHORAD) wheeled system armed with a 30mm gun unmanned turret and a surface-to-air missile system.

“Today, we had a great opportunity to show our advanced defense technologies and products to the MNG delegation,” said Vice President Oh Kyeahwan, Head of Hanwha Aerospace Middle East & Africa. “Hanwha is fully committed to providing best-in-class defense solutions in all domains of air, sea and land to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under strong bilateral partnership.”

Following the combined firepower demonstration, the KSA delegation is scheduled to review Hanwha’s up-to-date air defense systems, including the laser-guided anti-aircraft weapon, later this week.

A day earlier, Hanwha Group Vice Chairman Kim Dong-kwan held a meeting with H.R.H Prince Abdullah bin Bandar bin Abdulazia Al Saud to confer on ways of expanding bilateral cooperation in economy and security affairs.

During the one-on-one meeting in Seoul, Kim stressed Hanwha’s strong commitment to contributing to KSA’s Vision 2030 initiative and defense modernization efforts. Both sides also agreed to make joint efforts to respond to security issues in the Middle East.

06 Nov 24. New turrets from Centauri Technologies.

Technologies is marketing a range of new turrets capable of accommodating weapons from 12.7 to 40 mm.

Centauri Technologies describes itself as being at the forefront of modern military innovation, specialising in the development and deployment of advanced remote-controlled weapon systems and cutting-edge anti-drone technologies.

Its portfolio includes a range of solutions designed to enhance the operational capabilities and safety of military personnel in various combat scenarios. “From the robust 12.7 mm and 30 mm Remotely Operated Weapon Systems (ROWS) to the versatile 40 mm grenade launchers, Centauri’s products are engineered to deliver unparalleled precision, reliability, and firepower. Its integrated systems are not only designed for lethality but also for seamless integration into existing defence frameworks, ensuring a superior strategic advantage,” the company said.

In response to the evolving threat of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), Centauri has pioneered anti-drone technologies that provide detection, tracking, and neutralisation capabilities. Its solutions are equipped with radar and sight systems, allowing for real-time monitoring and rapid response to drone incursions, focusing on hard kill protection.

Centauri’s products include the CRx-10 12.7 mm ROWS; CRx-30 30 mm ROWS; CRx-40 40 mm grenade launcher ROWS; and Tri-AD hard kill anti-drone solution.

The CRx-10 ROWS is a dual axis stabilised turret with a quick loading recoil mitigation cradle. The main weapon for the CRx-10 is the NATO 12.7 mm (BMG – 12.7×99 mm). The optical payload and sensor pack can be configured to suit client’s requirements.

Two multi barrel 40 mm dual axis ROWS are on offer by Centauri. The Mk 2 configuration features a 40×46 mm Low Velocity launcher with a situational awareness camera and handheld HMI (human-machine interface). This unit can also fire less lethal ammunition. The Mk 3 configuration utilises a launcher capable of firing 40×51 mm Medium Velocity ammunition. An advanced optical system is integrated in this turret. A ballistic calculator improves accuracy. Control of the system is with a handheld HMI.

Centauri’s flagship product is the CRx-30 ROWS, that fires the powerful 30×113 mm DEFA series cannon. The optical and control sensor pack are well advanced enabling the CRx-30 to be applied actively in target suppression and “hard kill” drone protection.

The TriAD drone protection system utilise Centauri’s CRx-30 and CRx-40 ROWS systems as a lethal combination to create an effective hard kill zone at close range, firing programmable fragmentation (airburst) ammunition. The TriAD system uses a radio frequency analyser and radar sensor from third parties for its primary detection method. Centauri’s high-resolution camera can detect the target with increased precision in various conditions.

Centauri’s well experienced personnel have in the past been part of many projects for numerous South African defence companies, including Denel.

(Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

05 Nov 24. GDMS to Design, Test, and Deliver MEDUSA Prototype. General Dynamics Mission Systems announced today that it was awarded a $15.9m contract by the U.S. Navy to design, test, and deliver the Mining Expendable Delivery Unmanned Submarine Asset (MEDUSA) system. MEDUSA is a tactical, clandestine mining system using an expendable Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) that can be launched from a submarine torpedo tube. The U.S. Navy is developing MEDUSA to address the need for an advanced maritime mining system with long-range offensive mining capabilities. The scope of the newly awarded research and development effort includes the design, fabrication, and testing of the MEDUSA prototypes and associated risk reduction activities.

This contract includes options for prototype production and support that, if exercised, would bring the total value of the contract to $58.1 m. Design work on this contract will be performed in Quincy and Taunton, Massachusetts; Fairfax and Manassas, Virginia; Scottsdale, Arizona; Middletown, Rhode Island and Greensboro, North Carolina and is expected to be completed by September 2026.

“The critical operational need for advanced mine warfare assets like MEDUSA has increased dramatically,” said Dr. Laura Hooks, vice president and general manager of the Maritime and Strategic Systems business at General Dynamics Mission Systems.

“By leveraging our mature Bluefin Robotics unmanned underwater vehicle platforms, submarine platform integration experience, and our expertise in launching various torpedoes and payloads from submarines, General Dynamics Mission Systems will provide exceptional capability, military utility, and mission reliability to MEDUSA operators. We are proud to partner with the U.S. Navy to deliver this vital technology to the fleet,” she added.

General Dynamics Mission Systems leads a team comprised of General Dynamics Electric Boat, General Dynamics Applied Physical Sciences, General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, EaglePicher, and MIKEL. (Source: ASD Network)

04 Nov 24. Pakistan carries out test of new ship-launched ballistic missile. Pakistan has test-fired a new type of ship-launched ballistic missile, the service disclosed on 5 November via an official social media channel.

The weapon has a range of 350 km and is capable of engaging targets on land and at sea, reads a statement that was posted in the channel managed by the Pakistan Navy’s Director General Public Relations office.

No further details of the weapon were provided, with the office noting that the weapon is “equipped with state-of-the-art navigation system and manoeuvrability features”. No details of the deploying platform were provided either.

However, a video of the test-firing posted on the channel suggests that the missile was fired from one of the Pakistan Navy’s Zulfiquar (F-22P)-class frigate, as deciphered from a part of the ship’s mast that is visible in the frame.

Pakistan operates a fleet of four Zulfiquar-class frigates, which are based on the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s Type 053, each equipped with eight diagonally mounted anti-ship missile launchers.

The video indicates a missile with a diameter of between 85 cm and 90 cm and an overall length of about 9 m, and with a white and blue livery with letters spelling ‘SMASH’ applied on its fuselage.

In addition, the missile’s exhaust plume strongly suggests that it is controlled by jet vanes during its boost phase, with steering assistance provided by four clipped delta flight control surfaces at its rear.

Also visible in the video is what appears to be at least one external ridge along the missile’s fuselage that can house an antenna array and an electronics bus. This will facilitate communications between the control module and the missile’s propulsion and steering systems. (Source: Janes)

04 Nov 24. Aselsan new version of GÖKSUR PDMS at Euronaval 2024.

The new configuration, dubbed GÖKSUR 100-N, will have a launcher capable of housing 20 missiles.

The GÖKSUR 100-N features the GÖKSUR IIR missile, which is now adapted for maritime defence. Credit: © Aselsan A.Ş.

Aselsan is set to unveil an enhanced configuration of its GÖKSUR Point Defence Missile System (PDMS) at the upcoming Euronaval 2024, scheduled to take place in Paris from 4-7 November 2024.

It will reveal the new version, dubbed GÖKSUR 100-N, which will have a launcher capable of housing 20 missiles.

The GÖKSUR 100-N features the GÖKSUR IIR missile, originally designed for air-to-air engagements and now adapted for maritime defence.

This infrared (IIR)-guided missile enables 360o target engagement and rapid deployment in challenging sea conditions and multi-threat environments.

The system’s turret stabilisation allows for swift manoeuvring, enhancing its defensive effectiveness.

It is equipped with an advanced fire control system that incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) and offers mid-course guidance to counter modern anti-ship threats.

Its ability to handle simultaneous multiple engagements significantly boosts a vessel’s operational flexibility and situational awareness.

Aselsan has also developed various configurations of the GÖKSUR PDMS, including the GÖKSUR 100-N VLS, a flexible and modular vertical launcher system, and the GÖKSUR 100-N/StA, a standalone turret option.

These modular solutions cater to diverse air and missile defence requirements.

Aselsan president and CEO Ahmet Akyol said: “As Aselsan, we are excited to showcase our expertise and innovative solutions in the naval domain at Euronaval, and to introduce the new version of our GÖKSUR Point Defence Missile System.”

In addition, Aselsan will showcase a range of naval electronic warfare systems, underwater technologies, advanced naval communication solutions, and electro-optical systems at EURONAVAL 2024.

The exhibition will also feature the GÖKDENİZ close-in weapon system, MARLİN uncrewed surface vehicle, DÜFAS low-frequency active sonar system, and DERİNGÖZ autonomous underwater vehicle.

(Source: naval-technology.com)

04 Nov 24. Safran shows hybrid NGDS with Mistral 3. Safran Electronics & Defense has unveiled a hybrid version of its NGDS (New Generation Dagaie System) trainable decoy launcher configured to fire both hard-kill and soft-kill munitions.

Displayed for the first time at Euronaval 2024, the proposed variant offers the ability to fire MBDA Mistral 3 infrared (IR)-homing very short-range air-defence (VSHORAD) missiles alongside standard decoy rockets.

Already in service with the French Navy and a number of international naval forces, the stabilised two-axis NGDS launcher consists of a trainable mounting and an elevating firing table atop which a multibarrel ammunition module is fitted. The original 12-round launcher system developed for the French Navy features four triple launch barrels sized for Lacroix Defense 150 mm calibre SEALEM (radio frequency) and SEALIR (IR) decoys.

Safran has subsequently introduced modified NGDS barrel module configurations to meet specific customer needs. For example, a configuration D variant introduces new130 mm barrel modules on the firing table, which can fire both mortar-fired and rocket-propelled NATO-standard 130 mm decoy rounds.

According to Pierre-Olivier Nouguès, Safran’s senior vice-president naval sales, the concept of a hybrid NGDS mixing both missiles and decoys is a self-funded initiative for a ‘small footprint’ solution to defend against saturation attacks. “Owing to the needs to have several different types of ammunition, but at the same time limit the number of launchers on the ship, we have studied adapting the launcher with up to eight Mistral 3 missiles in addition to six large soft-kill munitions,” he said. “The preliminary work we’ve been doing with MBDA has been [focused] on Mistral [because] we are familiar with the earlier Tetral and Sadral launchers.” (Source: Janes)

01 Nov 24. France increases mortar capabilities. The French Army’s towed 120 mm mortars that will be replaced by Griffon Mortier Embarqué Pour l’Appui au Contact (MEPAC) 6×6 self-propelled 120 mm mortar carriers will be transferred to its infantry units, Janes learnt at Defence iQ’s Future Mortar Systems (FMS) 2024 conference held in London on 29–30 October. As a result, the service will have 20 120 mm mortar batteries, one for every French Army battlegroup.

The Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA), the French armaments procurement agency, awarded a contract to the SCORPION temporary consortium composed of Nexter (now KNDS France), Arquus, and Thales for 54 MEPACs at the end of 2020, with deliveries to be completed in 2028. The systems will equip the French Army artillery units. The infantry units will be equipped with 81 mm mortars, in addition to the 120 mm towed mortars that they will receive. The latter will be towed by Serval Véhicule Blindé Multi-Rôle Léger (VBMR-L) 4×4 light multirole armoured vehicles, which the French Army refers to as ‘Servalisation’. This is expected to contribute to the service’s infantry transformation process, which includes the introduction of new sensors, unmanned aerial vehicles, and loitering munitions, the latter to be delivered at the end of 2024.

The first MEPAC delivery is also planned for the end of 2024, following completion of qualification. With a crew of four, the 24.5 tonne MEPAC is equipped with the Thales Rifled, Recoiled, Mounted Mortar (2R2M) system with 360° coverage. The system features SCORPION vectronics, with automatic positioning and gun laying, as well as an ATLAS automated field artillery fire support system. The French Army claims MEPAC can shoot and scoot in less than a minute. (Source: Janes)

04 Nov 24. MBDA successfully completes the first launch of the new Teseo MK2/E anti-ship system for the Italian Navy. The Teseo MK2/E evolved missile system was successfully test fired for the first time on 14 October as part of the multi-year development programme for the Italian Navy. Teseo MK2/E is a new generation missile that brings a substantial improvement in the anti-ship capabilities of the Teseo missile family, known abroad as OTOMAT.

The firing, in co-operation with the Italian Navy, validated the design of the new elements of the missile and confirmed the results of wind tunnel testing of the missile’s new aerodynamics, paving the way towards the qualification of the new airframe and the new propulsion system, expected next next year.

The Teseo Mk2/E missile system will feature a unique mix of new capabilities and performance, notably through a new AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Antenna) RF seeker, shorter reaction times and enhanced mission planning that includes in-flight missile control via a satellite data link.

Together these advanced features will enable the effective countering of both sea and land targets at long ranges than previous generation systems. This extended range provides greater safety for crews on operations and the ability to conduct deep strikes to neutralise threats coming from fixed, mobile or reinforced positions located on the ground.

The Teseo Mk2/E missile system is the answer to continually evolving threats that generate the need to satisfy new operational requirements. Teseo Mk2/E has been defined and developed in close collaboration with the Italian Navy to equip the new PPA, Multi-Purpose Combat Ship, and new generation destroyers (DDX). Alongside the previous Mk2/A version, it will also on board the FREMM and Horizon class naval units. The Teseo MK2/E missile system will also be integrated on future FREMM EVO frigates and can be adapted to the needs of international customers.

Thanks to its very high performance, it will represent a new standard in the anti-ship armaments market and its variety of missions and flexibility will perfectly integrate and complement MBDA anti-ship portfolio.

Giovanni Soccodato, Executive Group Director Sales and Business Development and Managing Director of MBDA Italia, stated: “This first test of the Teseo MK2/E demonstrates the validity of the project, confirms our development roadmap, and presents a cutting-edge naval defence product capable of countering the most sophisticated threats. It also underlines once again how working in synergy with the customer brings results that perfectly meet their requirements. The decision by our Navy to equip the Teseo MK2/E with the new AESA seeker has made it possible to develop Italian skills in the deep strike domain and will allow our country to participate in the FC/ASW programme in collaboration with France and UK, contributing high added-value support and significant technological content.”

04 Nov 24. At Euronaval, MBDA is showcasing the newest generation of its world-renowned family of Exocet anti-ship missiles, continuously evolving to meet modern naval requirements and to ensure current and future maritime superiority. MBDA presents for the first time a brand new submarine-launched missile for anti-ship and surface warfare, the Exocet SM40. With this new missile, MBDA builds on its expertise to remain the sole European player to provide a unique sovereign capability for submarines, with no equivalent on the market.

The ability to successfully fire an anti-ship missile at any time of day or night, and in all weathers, and whatever the Electronic Warfare conditions, has always been vital. In addition, the capability of surface ships to detect a submarine has increased a lot over the years due to technological improvements, leading to a new generation of anti-ship missiles.

The Exocet SM40 features two main changes – when compared to the Exocet SM39 – to meet the new challenges of modern naval warfare, while maintaining the operational advantages that contributed to the success of SM39, such as the ability to fire at extreme depths or from brown water.

Building on a successful spiral evolution, the Exocet SM40 integrates the latest technologies developed for the Exocet MM40 B3c, including a new coherent J-band RF seeker and associated missile algorithms developed for high-intensity context. The Exocet SM40 will benefit from a renewed capability to discriminate and identify targets in a complex and highly demanding electronic warfare environment.

It also features a doubled range in the class of 120 km with a new propulsion system with a turbojet engine to regain the stand-off distance in anti-submarine warfare. These new capabilities are essential to ensure submarine self-protection against all kinds of modern and future threats and defeat highly defended vessels. To secure a fast time to market and minimize integration work, Exocet SM40 uses the same unrivalled launch envelope (propelled and guided underwater vehicle) as the Exocet SM39. MBDA is providing Naval Group submarines with game-changing capability for the next decade based on a well-proven solution for customers. With this new missile, Exocet remains Navies’ life insurance at sea, whenever, wherever and in any weather conditions.

04 Nov 24. UK ship and fleet protection specialist SEA and Danish engineering company Terma have announced the development of a combined countermeasures solution, Ancilia Powered by C-Guard MKII, at Euronaval. The new capability will provide a broader range of vessels and fleets access to the latest countermeasures technology to enhance the survivability of naval vessels in modern combat scenarios.

Using SEA’s trainable decoy launcher system, Ancilia, and the technology from Terma’s C-Guard MKII rapid response and constant threat evaluation capability, the combined countermeasures solution will provide an intelligent end-to-end solution ensuring enhanced fleet protection against multiple missiles and torpedoes for navies around the world.

A step-change in decoy launcher technology from traditional fixed solutions, Ancilia’s trainable nature removes the need to manoeuvre the vessel to counter incoming threats. Its relatively small size and weight also allows for rapid installation on a wide range of maritime platforms. Incorporating decoy-agnostic open architecture, the system can launch any standard 130mm NATO decoy, and other calibres of effectors, and can be retrofitted onto existing platforms delivering a truly flexible solution.

Ancilia Powered by C-Guard MKII will combine the latest in countermeasures capability with Terma’s proven C-Guard threat evaluation processing with advanced engagement algorithms. This will allow the end-to-end capability to easily integrate with a ship’s combat management system enabling a broader range of vessels and fleets access to the latest countermeasures technology.

Richard Flitton, Managing Director of SEA said: “In a rapidly evolving landscape with diverse threats, Ancilia powered by C-Guard MKII brings together leading countermeasures capabilities to offer a solution based on cutting-edge technology. Providing protection across multiple spectrums including radar and infrared, the new capability will help enhance the survivability of naval vessels in combat situations.

“With Ancilia soon to be in service with a tier one navy and C-Guard used globally, the combined capability is a next level countermeasures solution for vessels currently reliant on older technology.”

Thomas Elisberg, Director Naval Sales at Terma said: “Ancilia Powered by C-Guard MKII will offer navies across the world access to an integrated countermeasures solution, with the capability of incorporating both fixed and trainable launchers. With enhanced flexibility and effectiveness, the system ensures optimal placement of decoys based on the evolving threat picture.

“Our partnership with SEA will deliver a truly integrated and customer driven countermeasures offering.”

SEA has recently been awarded a £135m contract by the UK Royal Navy to provide its Ancilia capability to improve the defensive capabilities of the Royal Navy’s surface ships.

About Galvion:

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MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

November 1, 2024 by

Sponsored by Galvion

www.galvion.com

31 Oct 24. Poland in Talks to Acquire Over 100 HIMARS Rocket Launchers under Lockheed Martin Agreement.

The M142 HIMARS, a rocket-launch system mounted on a 6×6 FMTV truck chassis, was designed by Lockheed Martin to provide high-precision strikes with rapid mobility. Capable of deploying a variety of MLRS munitions, including GMLRS guided rockets with a 70 km range and ATACMS tactical missiles reaching up to 300 km, HIMARS allows for rapid repositioning after firing.

Operated by a three-person crew, the system features an automated fire control system manageable by a single operator, and its armored cabin provides protection against small arms fire and 155mm artillery fragments.

With its self-loading and autonomous capabilities, HIMARS is compatible with the M270A1 system and transportable via C-130 aircraft, allowing rapid deployment to remote areas. In serial production since 2003, HIMARS is currently in service with several nations, including the United States, Poland, and, more recently, Ukraine. Weighing 10,886 kg and reaching a top speed of 85 km/h, the HIMARS is powered by a Caterpillar C7 engine coupled with an Allison 3700SP transmission, offering a range of 480 km, making it a versatile and strategic asset for modern armed forces. (Source: Paulo Dominonni via LinkedIn)

31 Oct 24. Historic Ceremony in Germany Marks the Launch of the 1st Leopard Tank Equipped with TROPHY APS. In a landmark ceremony held today 29.10.2024, the Israel Ministry of Defense and the German Ministry of Defense inaugurated the first Leopard 2 tank upgraded with the Israeli TROPHY Active Protection System, developed by RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems. This deployment follows a 2020 agreement, spearheaded by the Ministry’s R&D Department in the Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D), to equip Germany’s Leopard 2 tank fleet with Israel’s premier active protection technology. The ceremony, attended by Viceadmiral Carsten Stawitzki, National Armaments Director in the German Ministry of Defense, highlights the deepening defense ties between Germany and Israel. This milestone adds to a series of recent high-value defense agreements, including Germany’s purchase of Israel’s Arrow missile defense system, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing defense capabilities. The TROPHY system was developed in collaboration with the IMoD’s DDR&D, the Tank and APC Administration, and RAFAEL and is the world’s only operational and most advanced active protection system of its kind. Designed to protect tanks and armored personnel carriers, TROPHY offers robust defense against an extensive array of anti-tank threats. Operational in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) since 2011, it is installed on all newly produced Merkava Mark IV tanks and NAMER APCs. Proven in numerous operational activities, TROPHY has recorded multiple successful intercepts, safeguarding both troops and armored assets on the battlefield. (Source: ASD Network)

31 Oct 24. Austria confirmed as first Crossbow turreted mortar customer. Janes received confirmation at Defence iQ’s Future Mortar Systems (FMS) 2024 conference held in London on 29–30 October that Austria is a customer for Elbit Systems’ Crossbow 120 mm turreted mortar. The Israeli company announced on 8 May that it had been awarded a USD53m, six-year contract to supply Crossbow to General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) for installation on the Pandur 6×6 armoured personnel carrier for a European customer, its first international order. Elbit displayed a full-scale mock-up of the turret at the DSEI 2023 defence exhibition held in London in September 2023. The company first presented the Crossbow concept at Defence iQ’s International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) 2023 conference held in London in January. Crossbow can be installed in a mission module with minimal protrusion, can be easily operated by a single crew member, and is fuzed for fully automatic operation, according to Elbit. It can fire the company’s range of mortar rounds, including the Iron Sting GPS-guided precision munition. It has a range of 10 km and a rate of fire of 10 rds/min, with a sustained rate of fire of six rounds for the first minute. Crossbow is designed to be fired on the move and to shoot and scoot with a multiple-round simultaneous impact (MRSI) capability. It is to enter service with the Israel Defense Forces, which financed its development and plan to deploy a containerised remotely operated version for border defence, as well as installing it in its Eitan 8×8 infantry fighting vehicle. The containerised version will have 20 ready-to-fire rounds, the Pandur four, and Eitan six, with the number of stored rounds depending on the size of the vehicle it is installed on. (Source: Janes)

31 Oct 24. The USMC Completed a Successful 1st Live-fire Exercise With IRON DOME Interceptor. The U.S. Marine Corps has successfully completed its first live-fire training exercise using an air defense system that integrates the IRON DOME interceptor.

The system is based on an American radar and command-and-control center, combined with the Iron Dome (Tamir) interceptor and a mobile launcher developed by Rafael, with Raytheon as the prime contractor.

During the exercise, Marines operated the system fully, leading to successful target interceptions. Additionally, the continuous launch capability of Iron Dome interceptors from a mobile launcher developed for the Marines was evaluated.

The exercise followed the completion of a full training program and a series of tests, all part of a development and procurement plan led by the Marines to assess a new prototype system for medium-range interception (MRIC – Medium Range Intercept Capability).

The successful exercise demonstrated both the proficiency of the forces in fully operating the system and the performance of the mobile launcher developed for the Marines, as well as the capabilities of the Iron Dome interceptor in relevant and challenging interception scenarios.

The Tamir interceptor is capable of intercepting cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and various rockets, shells, and mortars. Developed by Rafael, the interceptor was adapted for the Marine Corps configuration in collaboration with Raytheon as the primary contractor, and they provided training support.

This successful live-fire exercise marks a significant milestone toward the operationalization of the Marine Corps’ first prototype battery.

The Israel Ministry of Defense’s IMDO (Israel Missile Defense Organization) leads the development of Israel’s multi-layered defense array, which includes four operational defense layers: the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 systems.

Moshe Patel, head of IMDO at the Israel Ministry of Defense: “Iron Dome is a system with extensive operational experience, boasting thousands of successful interceptions over more than a decade. The Iron Dome system continues to save lives, even now, during the ‘Operation Iron Swords’ conflict. The U.S. Marine Corps live-fire exercise is yet further proof of the Iron Dome interceptor’s capability, along with its ground system, to rapidly and effectively integrate with any relevant air defense system and intercept a variety of aerial threats in complex scenarios. The Ministry of Defense welcomes all cooperation in the field of air defense with branches of the U.S. military.”

Shlomo Toaff, Executive Vice President and Head of Rafael’s Air Defense Systems Division: “The Iron Dome system continues to prove itself as an advanced and unique air defense system, with thousands of successful interceptions in complex operational scenarios. The fruitful collaboration with the U.S. Marine Corps, together with our partnership with Raytheon, demonstrates Rafael’s ability to deliver tailored and unique solutions, providing effective and precise air defense against a wide range of aerial threats. This successful exercise represents an important milestone, and we will continue, together with IMDO, to expand air defense capabilities in collaboration with our strategic partners worldwide.” (Source: ASD Network)

30 Oct 24. Mörser 16 mortar system production under way for Switzerland. Production of Mörser 16 armoured mortar vehicles (AMVs) is under way for Switzerland following the completion of testing of the systems in 2024, Janes learnt on the first day of Defence iQ’s Future Mortar Systems (FMS) 2024 conference being held in London on 29–30 October.

In 2025 the Swiss Army plans to determine what subsystems the Mörser 16 will be equipped with and to complete the development and acquisition of simulators to train on the system, with the aim of training the first fire units in 2026–27.

Switzerland is procuring 48 Mörser 16 AMVs from General Dynamics European Land Systems-Mowag (GDELS-Mowag) with Cobra 120 mm turntable-mounted smoothbore mortars from RUAG, and the first system is due to join the artillery school in 2026.

The 30 tonne Mörser 16 has a speed of 90 km/h, a range of 600 km, and a crew of four: commander, driver, and two loaders. Its global navigation satellite system-supported navigation system, Integrated Artillery Command and Fire Control System, and ballistic onboard computer allows it to be ready to fire in less than a minute, according to the Swiss Army. The AMV’s ammunition will include guided munitions. It features NATO Standardization Agreement (STANAG) 4 protection and has a 12.7 mm secondary armament. (Source: News Now/Jane’s)

30 Oct 24. Australia unveils multibn-dollar GWEO blueprint. Australian Minister of Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy has officially unveiled the government’s Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Plan to accelerate domestic manufacturing.

Announced by Minister Pat Conroy at an address to the National Press Club, this plan builds on the 2024 Defence Industry Development Strategy and will enhance Australia’s strike capability and preparedness.

The $16–21bn GWEO Plan provides certainty to Australian Defence industry on its role to boost the domestic manufacture of missiles and munitions and support the uplift of GWEO stockpiles in Australia and represents 5 per cent of the Integrated Investment Program’s total budget.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles said, “The 2024 Australian GWEO Plan demonstrates the Albanese government’s long-term commitment to keeping Australians safe and investing in local manufacturing of cutting-edge capabilities for our Defence Forces.”

The government has already announced key capability investments set out in the 2024 Australian GWEO Plan, including:

$850m in partnership with Kongsberg Defence Australia to manufacture and maintain the Naval Strike Missile and the Joint Strike Missile from 2027 at a new facility to be built at Williamtown, near Newcastle.
$37.4m in partnership with Lockheed Martin Australia to enable an initial batch of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS) missiles to be manufactured in Australia from 2025.
$7bn agreement with the United States to acquire the Standard Missile 2 Block IIIC (SM-2 IIIC) and Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) long-range missiles.
$142m for the accelerated acquisition of the Joint Strike Missile, to be delivered from 2025.
Up to $60m over five years to develop hypersonic and long-range strike capabilities.
$22m over three years to seek options from industry to establish a manufacturing complex for the production of rocket motors in Australia.

“In the 18 months since release of the 2023 Defence Strategic Review, we have made considerable progress to expand and accelerate long-range strike capabilities for the ADF, getting capability into the hands of the warfighter sooner,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

Minister Conroy expanded on these comments, saying, “The 2024 Australian GWEO Plan will provide defence industry with the clarity and confidence it needs to help increase defence materiel resilience and sovereign capability.”

As part of the announcement, Minister Conroy confirmed that the Royal Australian Navy’s Hobart Class destroyers would field the proposed 200 Tomahawk cruise missiles by the end of the year, providing an increase in the Navy’s strike range by 10 times.

Building on this, Minister Conroy confirmed the government’s commitment to an Australian manufacturing facility in partnership with Lockheed Martin Australia to domestically manufacture the GMLRS missiles.

The government has already commenced site assessments, with plans for the facility to be operational by 2029, along with the capacity to manufacture a range of weapons and contribute production capacity to Australia’s trusted partners in the region and beyond.

Minister Conroy said, “Our industry partnerships are essential to uplift Australia’s stockpiles and resilience and meet increasing demands.”

Defence is continuing to work with industry and international partners to strengthen Australia’s munitions stockpiles and the industrial base for domestic manufacture of guided weapons and explosive ordnance. (Source: Defence Connect)

30 Oct 24. Australia announces rapid munitions, missile manufacturing with Thales, Lockheed Martin.

The federal government has announced plans for the rapid establishment of domestic manufacturing for missiles, munitions – including producing up to 100,000 artillery ammunition rounds a year by the end of the decade.

The federal government, on 30 October, announced French defence company Thales has been selected as the preferred tenderer to build a new domestic forging capability for 155mm M795 artillery ammunition.

The 155mm M795 artillery ammunitions are used by Australia, the United States and other international partners for the M777A2 light towed howitzer, a critical close fires capability.

Defence will work with Thales as the preferred company to build, establish and commission the forge at the Commonwealth-owned Benalla Munitions facility. This project is expected to support at least 550 jobs.

The forge will produce 15,000 rounds each year by 2028, with capacity to produce up to 100,000 for global consumption. It will also be the first dedicated forge outside of the United States that will manufacture 155mm M795 artillery ammunition.

“Today’s announcement is another example of the Albanese government’s commitment to developing a more capable military force while also supporting a future made in Australia,” Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said.

“In our rapidly evolving strategic circumstances, the ADF must be equipped with capabilities that can hold adversaries at risk.

“The 2024 National Defence Strategy affirmed the need to invest in munitions to build stocks, strengthen supply chains and support a domestic manufacturing capability.

“Investment in a sovereign GWEO Enterprise that can produce and maintain priority weapons will support the ADF’s transformation to an integrated, focused force.”

In another boost to domestic manufacturing, the government is also committing to an Australian facility to manufacture Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS), in partnership with Lockheed Martin Australia. This is expected to create 70 local manufacturing jobs and hundreds of jobs to develop the facility.

GMLRS is a long-range, surface-to-surface precision strike capability that can be fired from High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launchers.

The new facility will enable Australia to produce viable volumes of GMLRS for global consumption, as reaffirmed at the 2024 Australia-United States Ministerial (AUSMIN) Consultations. It will be capable of producing up to 4,000 GMLRS each year from 2029. This represents more than a quarter of the current global production and more than 10 times the current ADF demand.

This builds on the government’s commitment to manufacture a small batch of GMLRS in Australia, commencing in 2025.

“By producing GMLRS at scale and investing in the development of a capable and resilient Defence industrial base to forge 155mm M795 artillery projectiles, Australia can be more self-reliant and able to accelerate the delivery of capability to the ADF, as well as our international partners,” Minister of Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy said.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates the Australian government’s commitment to manufacturing munitions in Australia, to develop our sovereign defence industrial base in areas of strategic priority.

“Our industry partners are paramount to achieve the strategic priorities outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy. We look forward to working with Lockheed Martin Australia and Thales on these important projects.”

Both projects are part of the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Enterprise – backed by an investment of up to $21 bn over the next decade – and aligned with the Albanese government’s Future Made in Australia agenda. They also form part of the 2024 Australian GWEO Plan, the government’s blueprint to build Defence’s GWEO stocks, strengthen supply chains and support a domestic manufacturing capability over the decade.

The Minister of Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, speaking at the National Press Club on 30 October, also confirmed the government would be investing in tools needed by the Australian Army.

“To ensure our Army has the tools it needs, the government has more than doubled the number of High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launchers being acquired for the Army and brought forward their introduction,” he said.

“We are also planning to acquire the Precision Strike Missile, which will initially have a range of 500 kilometres, with future development taking it out to 1,000 kilometres.

“The government is acquiring new Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System missiles for the Army. These are short-range, precision, surface-to-surface rocket systems.

“Under our plan, by the end of this decade, Australia will have at least two guided missile factories, a dedicated rocket motor manufacturing facility and a facility capable of producing up to 100,000 artillery ammunition rounds a year.” (Source: Defence Connect)

29 Oct 24. Patria unveils a new modular mortar system – Patria TREMOS. On 29 October, 2024, at the Future Mortar Systems conference in London, UK, Patria launched Patria TREMOS. This robust and cost-effective mortar system increases the mobility and accuracy of trusted, traditional high firepower mortars. Patria TREMOS modernizes conventional mortars with advanced recoil technology, allowing integration into to various types of vehicles and responding to the current and future warfighting and crisis management needs with enhanced mobility, firepower and accuracy. The system can be equipped with an in-service barrel and breech enabling the use of qualified weapon, ammunition and ballistic tables which makes it easy to train and operate.

“We have developed this new mortar system in close collaboration with the Finnish Defence Forces. After the initial ideas were approved, it took only a year to produce the first prototype for proof-of-concept tests. The main objective was to significantly increase the mobility of an existing mortar equipment. The recent events have highlighted the importance of mobility as the diversity of the battlefield and threat scenarios have increased”, explains Lauri Pauniaho, Director, Weapon Systems at Patria.

First shot accuracy and cost-effective solution

Patria TREMOS expands the advantages of mobility and modern technology to traditional mortars enabling rapid deployment, accurate first round hit and by fast in-and-out of action capability. This will enhance the survivability to an unpreceded level. Patria TREMOS can be used for all fire missions in infantry fire support. The system combines cost-effectively high firepower and vital shoot-and-scoot capability.

Patria TREMOS can open fire within 60 seconds when arriving to the firing position and can leave immediately after the last round is fired. The recoil system reduces the launch stresses and allows firing without the need for ground support enabling immediate exit from firing position after the last round. It can carry all types of needed ammunition and it can be used independently or as part of a larger mobile firing unit. The mortar system is compatible with all qualified 120 and 81 mm smoothbore mortar ammunitions.

Optimized modularity and tailored configuration

Patria TREMOS has an integration module with connecting interface making the system fast and easy to integrate and move from one vehicle to another. The integration module allows the system to be integrated to different suitable types of vehicles such as 4×4, 6×6, 8×8 and light tracked vehicles. The module includes also options to optimize the available space and it can be adapted to customer requirements enabling the most effective use. A solution has been developed also for the ammunition storage making the charge and fuse preparations easy and safe.

The Patria TREMOS mortar system meets contemporary requirements of protection through mobility, rapid firepower, and shoot-and-scoot capability. This makes it an excellent option for diverse troops undertaking a variety of missions.

25 Oct 24. Fearing China’s hypersonic weapons, US Navy seeks to arm ships with Patriot missiles. Fearing China will deploy hypersonic weapons to sink ships in the Pacific, the U.S. Navy is moving forward with a plan to arm some of its vessels with Patriot interceptor missiles, two senior defense officials said.

One industry official said putting the highly agile Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (PAC-3 MSE) interceptors, used primarily in the U.S. by the Army, aboard Navy ships anticipates advances in Chinese missile technology, including the use of highly maneuverable hypersonic weapons.

Integrating the Lockheed Martin-made (LMT.N) missiles with ships’ air defenses comes amid simmering tension in the Indo-Pacific region as China rapidly modernizes its military, and in the wake of successful missile defense efforts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

How many PAC-3 interceptors the Navy will need is uncertain, but overall demand is “through the roof,” said Tom Karako, a missile defense expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. (Source: Reuters)

26 Oct 24. US missile agency scales back Guam defence plans. A proposed multibn-dollar missile defence system for Guam has been reduced to 16 sites on the island from the original 22, the U.S. Missile Defense Agency said in a draft environmental impact statement on Friday.

The project is designed to create “360 degree” protection for the U.S. Pacific territory from missile and air attacks of all kinds, the agency said. Plans include integrating Raytheon’s (RTX.N) SM-6, SM-3 Block IIA, Lockheed Martin’s (LMT.N) THAAD, and the Patriot PAC-3, which uses components from both companies, over about 10 years.

The environmental impact study, which began last year and included a public comment period this year, proposes “deploying and operating and maintaining a combination of integrated components for air and missile defense positioned on 16 sites” on the island. The report does not say why the number of sites was reduced.

All of the remaining 16 sites are on U.S. military property.

The project is crucial to the U.S. and its Indo-Pacific allies because it provides a logistical hub far from U.S. shores – Guam is closer to China than it is to Hawaii. (Source: Reuters)

25 Oct 24. NSWC PHD installed first OTH Weapon System on USS Fitzgerald.

The installation supported the launch of an NSM at a decommissioned ship during RIMPAC.

The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division (NSWC PHD), along with partners had installed the first Over-the-Horizon (OTH) Weapon System on the destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62).

The deployment of the weapon system supported the launch of a Naval Strike Missile (NSM) from the US Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyer in the Pacific Ocean during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise on 18 July 2024.

The installation saw collaboration among Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO IWS) 3H, Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) China Lake, General Dynamics Mission Systems, and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace AS.

The OTH system, a long-range surface-to-surface warfare system, was added to about a dozen Independence-variant littoral combat ships over the past five years.

In late September 2023, the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations issued a challenge to PEO IWS to install an OTH on the destroyer in time for the exercise.

This left the team with a tight nine-month deadline before the biennial international fleet exercise.

NSWC PHD Port Hueneme OTH customer advocate Eric Romero said: “This was a high-visibility requirement for the Navy.”

The OTH system was installed on USS Fitzgerald at Naval Base San Diego from mid-March to late May, with the main components being the launcher and an operator interface console.

To ensure compatibility with the destroyer, a navigation adapter was also required. After installation, NSWC PHD trained the crew and supported system testing while underway.

During RIMPAC in Hawaii, USS Fitzgerald participated in a sinking exercise with other ships and aircraft.

The target was a decommissioned amphibious ship located approximately 50 nautical miles off the coast of Kauai.

With NSWC PHD team members monitoring remotely, USS Fitzgerald launched its first NSM from the OTH, which successfully searched for, detected, and engaged the target.

(Source: naval-technology.com)

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MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

October 25, 2024 by

Sponsored by Galvion

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23 Oct 24. Skywolf Ground Attack Munitions for Turkish Combat Drones.

The Skywolf family of unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) munitions developed by Turkish defense startup Astech is set to strengthen Turkey’s defense capabilities by joining the nation’s growing roster of UCAV munitions, a key export category in the Turkish defense industry.

Astech will unveil the Skywolf Ground Attack Munitions (GAM) family for the first time at the SAHA 2024 International Defense and Aerospace Exhibition in Istanbul, taking place from Tuesday to Saturday this week.

Founded by a team of experienced engineers, Astech has participated in several missile and munition projects, leading to mass production in the Turkish defense sector. This experience equips the company with the expertise to implement innovative weapon system solutions, including the Skywolf GAM family.

Astech provides a wide range of advanced defense solutions, from munition system designs to vehicles, missiles, subsystems, sensors, seekers, power systems and rocket engines.

With a focus on high-tech products, Astech’s specialized engineering teams aim to carve out a niche in the international defense arena through global collaborations and partnerships. As the startup prioritizes solutions to meet contemporary defense needs, the GAM family emerged as its first product line.

Turkey’s UCAVs to be more powerful and strike at longer distances with Astech’s GAM family The Skywolf GAM family consists of mini smart weapon systems designed for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and UCAVs. It includes three variants: the GAM-A, with a range of 20 kilometers (12.4 miles); the GAM-B, with a range of 40 kilometers (25 miles); and the GAM-D, with a range of 80 kilometers (50 miles).

The modular design of the GAM family allows customization to meet specific mission requirements, offering four different seeker options and two warhead types. This enables precision strikes against both fixed and moving targets using advanced guidance technologies.

While the avionics systems and platform interfaces are standard across the three models, they each have unique features. The GAM-A serves as the basic configuration, while the GAM-B and GAM-D incorporate different wing kits, with the GAM-D featuring a propulsion system for enhanced range.

The GAM product family provides significant operational advantages on the battlefield with three range options and warheads weighing 16 kilograms (35 pounds).

Additionally, the GAM-X, the largest variant in the product family, is designed for penetrating armored and protected targets, featuring larger warhead options for enhanced destruction capability.

The GAM family is anticipated to transform battlefield dynamics, particularly when integrated with Turkish UCAV systems. Astech’s GAM warheads are reported to deliver two to three times more power than comparable industry offerings and enable longer ranges.

The GAM features a fire-and-forget capability along with a human-in-the-loop (HITL) firing mode, allowing pilots to interact with the munition and update targets in real-time. (Source: UAS VISION/Anadolu Ajansı)

22 Oct 24. Australia to award 155 shell production contract in coming ‘weeks,’ minister says. Speaking to Breaking Defense, defense procurement minister Pat Conroy said Australia is building in “scalability beyond our domestic need” to be able to help supply international customers for munitions production.

Australia is poised to award a contract to produce 155mm shells domestically in the next few weeks, defense acquisition minister Pat Conroy told Breaking Defense today.

“All I can say is an announcement will be made shortly. So look out in the next little while for that announcement,” Conroy said in an interview during his visit to meet with American defense officials. Pressed for more specificity, Conroy said the timetable is within “weeks.”

Currently, Australia imports its 155mm shells from a South African subsidiary of Rheinmetall. While there is domestic production via a joint venture between a local company, NIOA, and Rheinmetall, those shells are only for export to Germany.

Few details have been made public about the pending 155mm contract from the MoD, including dollar amounts and quantity. Conroy confirmed that the NIOA-Rheinmetall team pitched on the deal, with French firm Thales also competing. However, the minister indicated that there is a third, currently unidentified, competitor as well.

“There was a — I won’t get into it — but there was a third option that was approached as well,” he told Breaking Defense.

Since the start of the Ukraine war, 155mm shells have become a hot commodity, with international demand far exceeding production. Speaking to Breaking Defense last week, Australian Army Maj. Gen. Richard Vagg, the service’s head of Land Capability, said building up domestic 155 production is vital for Australia’s defense.

“I think our government’s been really clear. You just look at the investment they put into guided weapons and explosive ordnance in Australia,” Vagg said on the sidelines of the AUSA conference. “I know we’re looking at 155; it’ll be crawl, walk, run. I don’t need to say it’s important — I think the government’s actions, the amount of money and effort they’ve invested in that area makes that pretty clear.”

Conroy is also hopeful that Australia can play a role in the broader supply chain globally — meaning that as Canberra invests in building up domestic production of munitions for its own use, it is building in “scalability beyond our domestic need” to be able to help supply international customers.

Overall, Australia has committed up to $21 bn AUD ($14.1 bn USD) for what it’s calling the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise (GWEO) over the next decade to increase its domestic munitions production.

Part of that includes a planned investment in solid rocket motor production. “I think that’s going to be a key focus, is to develop an Australian capability around solid rocket motors, recognizing that that’s sort of the pace setter for a lot of the global supply chains around missiles,” Conroy said.

Australia has a request for information out to industry for solid rocket motor production, so any competition is in the early stages, though some companies are already signaling their interest.

During Conroy’s visit to Washington, Canberra announced a plan to spend $7 bn AUD on SM-2 IIIC and SM-6 missiles for its Navy. While Conroy declined to go into quantities or delivery timelines due to “operational security reasons,” he said that part of his conversation with US Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro during this trip was to firm up production plans, given concerns about availability of the weapons.

“I’ll just say that we’re comfortable with our nominated slots in the delivery [queue] and the US Navy have been very cooperative with us in terms of how we access inventory,” Conroy said. “So I’m satisfied that the delivery schedule meets our strategic needs, and the US Navy has been very supportive of working with them on understanding the capability.” (Source: Breaking Defense.com)

23 Oct 24. India’s Reliance Infra to invest $1.2bn for ammunition project. Indian industrialist Anil Ambani’s Reliance Infrastructure (RLIN.NS) said on Tuesday it will invest 100bn rupees ($1.19bn) over the next ten years on a project to produce explosives, ammunition and small arms. India, which counts the Tata Group, the Adani Group and Larsen & Toubro as major private defence manufacturers, has been pushing to increase domestic production of defence equipment, with exports hitting an all-time high of 210.83bn rupees in the previous fiscal year. (Source: Google/Reuters)

21 Oct 24. ESSI gains Switzerland as 15th member. The joining follows the ESSI member states’ approval of the country’s application for admission.

Switzerland will join the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), a project coordinated by Germany which aims to boost NATO’s integrated air and missile defence.

Armament chief Urs Loher has signed the memorandum of understanding (MoU) declaring the country’s accession to the ESSI.

This signing follows the ESSI member states’ approval of the country’s application for admission, making Switzerland as the initiative’s 15th member.

The initiative seeks to enhance air and missile defence in Europe by facilitating the joint procurement of defence systems and missiles among European countries.

The Federal Council of Switzerland had previously agreed to join the ESSI on 10 April 2024 and authorised the Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports (DDPS) to sign the necessary documents.

The accession process began on 8 July 2024, when Urs Loher signed the application for membership, which was later unconditionally accepted by the ESSI member states.

Switzerland’s involvement in the ESSI presents new international opportunities for cooperation, particularly in the procurement, training, and logistical support of ground-based air defence (GBAD) systems.

The MoU outlines the general provisions for cooperative procurement projects and programmes within the ESSI framework, as well as the potential for exchanging ideas on other areas of cooperation.

As a participant state, Switzerland is now eligible to enter into separate programme agreements for individual projects under the ESSI’s umbrella.

Initially, the focus will be on medium-range GBAD systems, with prospects for collaboration on shorter and longer-range air defence systems in the future.

The signing of the MoU and the declaration of accession does not impose any binding obligations on Switzerland.

The country retains the freedom to choose the extent of its participation in the ESSI and the specific GBAD systems it wishes to procure.

This approach is consistent with the stance Switzerland took in July 2023, when it outlined its neutrality law reservations in an additional declaration alongside Austria. (Source: airforce-technology.com)

22 Oct 24. TTPI bringing out the big guns – and their turrets. To The Point International, working closely with Vision24 Technologies, has developed several new turrets, including a novel seven-shot 40 mm grenade launcher turret.

To The Point International (TTPI) designs sights, fire control systems for armoured vehicles, small turrets, and remotely operated weapon systems. Subsystem design covers weapon mounts, weapon controls (cocking systems, remote triggers, gun drives and ammunition feed systems), sighting systems, and fire control systems (including ballistic algorithms).

Other products include slaved gunner sighting systems, stabilised commander sighting systems, fire control systems, thermal scopes for rifles and assault rifles, and video borescopes for hunting and sniper rifles. A new 90 mm borescope is among the borescope options being showcased by TTPI.

Last year TTPI completed development of its new Terminator turret. In production for an export customer, the Terminator is an open one-man turret in which the weapon is aimed, cocked and fired manually by the gunner. An automated electrical assist enables the gunner to track and engage moving targets without releasing his grip on the weapon. The turret structure, which includes six vision blocks and a large gun shield, provides the gunner with NATO STANAG Level 2 protection. A canopy with Level 2 protection can be added for protection from above. The 480 kg Terminator can accommodate 7.62 and 12.7 mm Eastern Bloc or NATO weapons as well as the 14.5 mm PKVT heavy machinegun or a 40 mm Mk19 automatic grenade launcher.

Another new design is a fully stabilised, remotely operated weapon system (ROWS) that can accommodate 250 12.7 mm ready rounds in an ammunition box below armour. This gives operators a significantly better supply of well protected ammunition before needing to reload. It offers full remote operation as well as quick reloading from under armour. A day camera and thermal imager provide 24/7 and all weather operation. The turret, excluding weapon and ammunition, weighs 380 kg.

TTPI’s new Gun Slinger is an open gun mount which is manually operated for rapid target engagement at short ranges – no external power is needed from the host vehicle. It can be fitted with Level 1 protection if required. High elevation angles enable short range anti-aircraft target engagement. The Gun Slinger can be integrated on any existing or new lightly armoured vehicle or commercially available double cab utility vehicle – it has been fitted to Armourmax’s TAC-6, for example, with a 12.7 mm Browning.

A turret like the Gun Slinger is, according to TTPI CEO Vernon Kroeger, unique in the South African market today and this is in line with his company’s aim to not compete with existing designs but produce unique, well priced systems that give the user good bang for their buck, filling gaps in the product ranges on the market.

TTPI’s novel seven-shot 40 mm turret is designed for self defence. Kroeger explained that it can ideally be used in conjunction with weapons like missiles that require a period of self defence while the missile is travelling to its target. The 40 mm barrel and reloads are arranged horizontally, making for a very flat profile, but the turret can also be mounted vertically on a gun mount. A sight and camera can be incorporated.

TTPI works closely with OTT, fitting its fire control system (FCS) to OTT’s Ratel Service Life Extension Programme (SLEP) vehicle. TTPI offers fire control systems for the Ratel 90 mm and Ratel 20 mm turrets, and is exploring upgrading PT-76 amphibious light tank turrets with day/night fire control systems – one potential customer could order 50 upgraded vehicles.

Not one to stand still, Kroeger is working on another turret he hopes to complete by the end of the year. This will use a 30 mm DEFA or 23 mm Russian cannon that can be either manned or unmanned, and loadable from under armour. It will be completely armoured, as Kroeger believes this is the way the industry is heading in light of recent combat experience – bigger weapons in closed weapons stations. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

22 Oct 24. $7bn boost to Australia’s air and missile defence capabilities. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Industry Richard Marles and Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy have announced a $7bn acquisition to acquire state-of-the-art long-range missiles.

This multibillion acquisition of the Standard Missile 2 Block IIIC (SM-2 IIIC) and Standard Missile‑6 (SM-6) marks a milestone in the government’s rapid progress in boosting the long-range strike and defensive capability of the Royal Australian Navy’s surface combatant fleet.

The SM-2 IIIC and SM-6 are described as the “most advanced air and missile defence weapons in the world” and will be progressively deployed across Navy’s Hobart Class destroyers and in the future, the Hunter Class frigates.

Minister Marles welcomed this announcement, saying, “This is another example of the Albanese government accelerating the acquisition of critical capabilities for the Australian Defence Force and enhancing the lethality of Navy’s surface combatant fleet.”

This announcement follows the recent successful test firing of an SM-6 from HMAS Sydney, demonstrating the growing lethality and defensive capabilities of the Hobart Class fleet of destroyers

“The Standard Missile‑6 and Standard Missile 2 Block IIIC will enable our Navy to strike maritime, land and air targets at long-range, and provide a terminal ballistic missile defence capability, boosting the capacity for the ADF to safeguard Australians and their interests,” Minister Marles said.

Both the SM-2 IIIC and SM-6 incorporate a host of advanced technologies that are designed to greatly enhance the lethality and effectiveness of our Navy ships in line with the National Defence Strategy and the Independent Analysis into Navy’s Surface Combatant Fleet.

Minister Conroy expanded on the Deputy Prime Minister’s statements, saying, “Our investment in these world-leading, high-tech missiles is another example of the Albanese government moving fast to keep Australians safe, deter any adversary, and defend Australia’s national interests in the missile age.” (Source: Defence Connect)

21 Oct 24. Estonia mulls additional HIMARS buy, while talking with Lockheed competitors.

“If the delivery times were long, we may need to substitute HIMARS munitions for something else, that’s available faster,” said Magnus Saar, Estonia’s national armaments director.

Estonia is weighing a second Lockheed Martin M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) order and has opened talks with other competitors to assess alternative platform options, according to the Baltic nation’s top weapons procurement official.

“We are expecting [HIMARS] deliveries next year, and we plan a follow on order,” Magnus Saar, Estonia’s national armaments director, told Breaking Defense on the sidelines of the AUSA trade show last week.

“Lately, our government decided to invest an additional €1.6 bn ($1.7 bn) to increase strategic sustainability….a huge part of it” will be spent on HIMARS, he noted, before stressing that any new deal is dependent on delivery lead times and pricing from the US government.

Speaking on background, a US State Department official told Breaking Defense that “As a matter of policy, we do not publicly confirm or comment on proposed arms transfer cases until they have been formally notified to Congress. We refer you to the Estonians to speak to their defense procurement plans.”

Lockheed Martin deferred questions to the US government.

Estonia signed for six HIMARS in a package worth over $200m in 2020 and which covers several rocket types that can reach a range between 70km and 300km, communications systems, training and logistics.

First deliveries of the weapons system were scheduled to begin this year, but Saar’s reference to “next year,” highlights a delay — an issue that looks to have drawn concern ahead of placing a new order.

“If the delivery times were long, we may need to substitute HIMARS munitions for something else, that’s available faster,” he added. “We’re having those discussions here [in Washington] to establish a clear picture of if we would make an order and how fast we could get it.”

Talks with a number of non-US competitors have already taken place and include South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace pitching the K239 Chunmoo, Turkey’s Rocketsan offering Khan and Israel’s Elbit putting forward the Precise and Universal Launching System (PULS). And there may be more — Saar said he had “probably neglected to mention a few” other competitors.

Despite those conversations, the foundations for a follow on HIMARS acquisition appear to be relatively strong, even with the question mark over delivery times.

In January, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania signed a trilateral agreement, “which aims to create a framework for joint use” of HIMARS, according to a translated statement from Estonia’s Ministry of Defence.

Additionally, the US Army HIMARS unit in Estonia, Task Force Võit, frequently trains and collaborates with Estonian Defense Forces’ 1st Brigade and NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence (EFP) Battle Group.

In a more general sense, Tallinn has ramped up defense spending in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion, reaching a figure above 3 percent GDP this year — outperforming the 2 percent NATO target.

The Baltic state plans on spending €3.5 bn on new “armaments” over the next five years, according to the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments long term spending plan [PDF].

Over the next two years alone it has committed to layouts of €200 m for 155mm wheeled self propelled howitzers, €200 m for French Mistral Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS) and €200 m for new loitering munitions.

As it looks to build up multi-layered air defense capabilities, Tallinn is also set to receive deliveries of German made IRIS-T SLM medium range ground-based air defense systems next year.

“NATO has taken steps to enhance air defense and improve situational awareness,” Hanno Pevkur, Estonia’s Defence Minister said at the NATO Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Brussels on 18 October. “The imminent reopening of our Ämari base and the presence of Spain’s NASAMS unit in Estonia are part of this air defense enhancement, which will soon be reinforced by our own IRIS-T systems.” (Source: Google/Breaking Defense.com)

14 Oct 24. Lockheed Martin to debut model for Stinger replacement. A model of Lockheed Martin’s solution for the Stinger missile replacement programme was being shown for the first time at the Association of the United States Army’s annual meeting on 14–16 October.

In the past, the army has said a technology demonstration for NGSRI, the Stinger surface-to-air missile replacement, would take place in fiscal year (FY) 2024, an operational demonstration in FY 2026, and a production decision by FY 2027. Lockheed Martin confirmed to Janes that it has already participated in a soldier touchpoint earlier this year and is preparing for the next one before the end of the calendar year, according to Chris Murphy, lead for NGSRI.

A few flight tests are expected in 2025 in addition to some tests on the command launch assembly, he added. This phase of testing is expected to wrap up before the end of FY 2025.

The army is “hoping for some competition options” for the missile, which will have shorter time of flight and greater range in addition to a seeker and warhead geared towards generation five unmanned aircraft systems (UASs), Doug Bush, assistant secretary for acquisition, logistics, and technology, told reporters in June 2024. The service awarded other transaction authority (OTA) prototyping awards to RTX and Lockheed Martin in March 2023.

Although he declined to provide specifics on range, Murphy said Lockheed Martin engineers are exploring the possibility of increasing range beyond the requirements the army first requested. (Source: Janes)

18 Oct 24. NAVSEA order more mine sweep payloads for USV operations.

Users will integrate the MSPDS module onto Textron’s Nato-compliant, multi-mission Common Unmanned Surface Vehicle.

US Naval Sea Systems Command has called on Textron Systems, an all-domain security systems manufacturer, to produce Mine Sweep Payload Delivery Systems (MSPDS) for US Navy mine countermeasure (MCM) operations.

The company designed these mine sweep payloads to locate and detonate acoustic and magnetic influence mines. In August 2024, Nato estimated that more than 60 countries possess sea mines and more than 30 countries produce them.

Textron’s MSPDS reached initial operating capability in 2022. As of October 2023, the supplier has delivered two pilot systems and four low-rate production crafts and payloads. The Navy use these existing units to support its Littoral Combat Ship operations.

The company will undertake the work at various locations across the US, more than half of which will occur at its Cockeysville, Maryland facility. The service will induct an undisclosed number of these systems by October 2025. Although, if all options are exercised, work will continue for another four years through to 2029.

According to a Defense Department release of the contract details on 15 October 2024, the order was competitively procured under the Navy’s Unmanned Surface Vehicle Family of Systems Multiple Award Contract agreement. Specifically, the order is valued at more than $18m, which may bring the cumulative value to $106m if all options are exercised.

Typically, users will integrate the MSPDS module onto Textron’s Nato-compliant, multi-mission Common Unmanned Surface Vehicle (CUSV).

With the appropriate payload, the CUSV conducts a range of tasks besides MCM, including Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance; surface and expeditionary warfare.

The CUSV has an endurance time of more than 20 hours, a towing capacity of around 2 tonnes at 20 knots and it can use any data link. (Source: naval-technology.com)

18 Oct 24. RTAF partners with Diehl Defence for IRIS-T missile.

The contract encompasses integration support, technical logistics, and live-firing support.

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has signed a support contract with Diehl Defence to enhance the service’s capability for the IRIS-T short-range air-to-air missile system.

This follows a long-term collaboration between the two parties on deploying IRIS-T missiles on RTAF aircraft.

In 2018, Diehl Defence announced that Thailand ordered more IRIS-T short-range air-to-air missiles for use with the Air Force’s F-5 aircraft.

The latest agreement is set to enhance the RTAF’s capability to operate the IRIS-T across its entire aircraft fleet, which includes Gripen, F-16, and F-5 fighters.

The contract encompasses integration support, technical logistics, and live-firing support.

Signed in Germany at the start of October, the contract aims to ensure the effective deployment of the IRIS-T missiles, which have been a part of the RTAF’s arsenal since an order was placed in 2018.

Diehl Defence’s IRIS-T is a fifth-generation missile, compatible with a variety of aircraft including the Eurofighter Typhoon, Gripen, F-16, EF-18, F-5, and Tornado.

Originating from a European cooperation programme, the missile is known for its thrust vectoring and aerodynamic control, which grant it exceptional agility.

The missile’s technology features an imaging IR seeker head coupled with intelligent image processing, allowing for target designation via airborne radar or the pilot’s helmet sight.

It can engage targets behind the aircraft and intercept incoming missiles.

Currently, IRIS-T’s incorporation into the Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) KF-21 fighter aircraft is in progress.

Earlier in February 2024, Diehl Defence and KAI signed a memorandum of understanding to further the integration of the IRIS-T missile onto the FA-50/T-50 and KF-21 Block II aircraft. (Source: airforce-technology.com)

26 Sept 24. Remote mini-gun and Hawkei remote weapon station evaluated at autonomous systems trial. M113 optionally crewed combat vehicles, remotely operated platforms and even a remotely controlled mini-gun have been evaluated during the latest Land Autonomous Systems and Teaming Demonstration.

Defence industry representatives, engineers and Australian Defence Force personnel (such as 1st Armoured Regiment) attended the demonstration at Puckapunyal military area in Victoria from 15 to 26 September.

“The Land Autonomous Systems and Teaming–Demonstration (LAST-D) is Army’s capstone emerging technology event for 2024,” Defence said.

“LAST-D showcased a broad spectrum of technology under development within Defence and defence industry.”

The demonstration continues the Australian Army’s 2022 Robotic and Autonomous Systems Strategy to explore opportunities in teaming up with machines and systems through three themes: intelligent machine, machine to machine teaming, and human to machine teaming.

RAS technology is expected to provide benefits such as maximising soldier performance, improving decision making, generating mass and scalable effects, protecting the force and operational efficiencies.

The demonstration also included an Australian Army Hawkei vehicle fitted with a 30mm remote weapon station, an optionally crewed combat vehicle fitted with a remotely controlled mini-gun, OWL-B loitering munitions and unmanned aerial vehicles. (Source: Defence Connect)

20 Oct 24. New air defence laser engages multiple missiles at once.

RAF pilots are one step closer to being equipped with a cutting-edge air-protection laser self-protection system, following 100% successful live-fire trials.

Air protection laser defeats 100% of targets in live firing trial.
Equipment being fitted to UK military aircraft to defeat missile threats.
Collaboration between Dstl scientists and UK industry partners help support 1950 jobs across Scotland.

RAF pilots are one step closer to being equipped with a cutting-edge laser self-protection system, following 100% successful live-fire trials.

The laser is being designed to be fitted to a range of RAF aircraft including the intelligence gathering Shadow R2 and A400M transporter, ready to rapidly detect and defeat threats such as missiles.

During the trial at the Vidsel Test Range in Sweden, the operational system defeated a range of infrared heat-seeking missiles being fired simultaneously.

100% of threats were quickly defeated using a laser with pinpoint accuracy, which has been designed and developed by the Team Pellonia partnership between Leonardo UK, Thales UK, and the MOD’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory.

Defence Secretary, John Healey said: “Identifying, tracking and defeating threats from the air in seconds is crucial to having the edge over those who try to do us harm. We’re equipping our Armed Forces with the very latest technology to keep them safe and give them the advantage on operations. This high-tech laser is another excellent example of joint working between our Dstl experts and the UK’s defence industry.”

The system works by Thales’s Elix-IR threat warning system quickly detecting and identifying the launch of missiles, using a series of algorithms to filter out background clutter so that only valid threats are tracked, classified and declared.

Once the threat(s) has been classified, an alert is sent to the Leonardo’s Miysis directed infrared countermeasure which moves to track the incoming missile and directs a jamming laser onto the missile with ultimate precision.

Threats are defeated faster than the time it takes to read this sentence. This UK engineered capability gives the MOD the latest generation best-in-class protection, whilst enjoying full operational independence, and offering the same freedoms to export customers.

The live tests were witnessed by senior military officers from a number of NATO nations.

Dstl’s Chief for Air Survivability, Mark Elson, said: “The UK defensive aids system is the culmination of MOD’s detailed understanding of changing threats alongside years of sustained defence investment in science and technology nurtured within Dstl. This has been aligned with the development capabilities of our commercial partners through Team Pellonia. The design of the system has the agility to protect platforms now and into the future, providing long-term operational advantage to the UK and our allies. This is enabled through Spiral Development which provides capabilities such as the Dstl developed jamming waveform that defeats the guidance of the missile threat.”

Dstl’s research programme and partnerships like Team Pellonia help boost UK economic growth, sustaining 700 jobs at Thales in Glasgow and 1,250 specialist roles at Leonardo in Edinburgh, supporting both the local as well as national economies.

Leonardo’s Senior Vice-President of Radar and Advanced Targeting, Mark Stead, said: “The results of these latest trials speak for themselves, and are a testament to the skills and experience within Leonardo as a global leader in directed infrared countermeasures. Miysis DIRCM has again proven itself as a reliable, effective protection system and is flying operationally on many platforms today. My thanks go to the Miysis team who demonstrated superb leadership and technical prowess during the trials at Vidsel, working alongside our partners in Defence and Industry to prove our capabilities which help to protect our Armed Forces.”

Thales’s Managing Director of Optronics & Missile Electronics UK, Stephen McCann, said: “Once again, as previously witnessed during SALT 3 in 2018, Elix-IR has proved its world leading capabilities as the latest generation multi-function infrared threat warning system during what was a comprehensive and complicated multi-faceted trial. I am extremely proud of our entire team that supported both the UK, under Team Pellonia, and other NATO member teams in the preparation and execution of this event. UK MOD has adopted Elix-IR as its core reference capability threat warner of choice, based on its maturity and proven capability.”

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15 Oct 24. US Army quits plan for next-gen Patriot missile replacement. The U.S. Army has decided to back off an effort to replace its Patriot missile with a next-generation interceptor, according to Maj. Gen. Frank Lozano, program executive officer for missiles and space.

“We are not going to move forward on what we were calling a Lower-Tier Future Interceptor,” Lozano told Defense News in an interview at the Association of the U.S. Army’s annual conference.

Lozano said those scrapped plans would have been “a very expensive endeavor.”

“Those Patriot interceptors are very capable, but also very expensive and so after going through a business case analysis within the PEO and with the Army senior leaders, what we’ve decided to do is, one, look at continuing to upgrade the PAC-3 MSE missile, which I believe is probably the best air defense missile in the world, and continue to advance that capability so that it can remain relevant against the evolving threats,” he said.

The effort would have completed the final piece of the puzzle in a new Integrated Air and Missile Defense System. Already the service has fielded its command-and-control system – the Integrated Battle Command System – and is developing and will soon field a new radar – the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor – capable of detecting threats from 360 degrees.

The Army is anticipating threat missiles in the 2040 timeframe will evolve to have rocket motors that make missiles fly faster with hypersonic capability, more maneuverable tactical ballistic missiles, decoys and electronic warfare countermeasures

Army Futures Command a year ago was formulating an abbreviated capabilities development document. If approved the funding would have been included in the fiscal 2025 through FY29 funding plan.

The Army has continued to see just how capable the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (PAC-3 MSE) is in Ukraine since the U.S. sent it in to help the country defend against the Russian invasion.

The missile has shot down, for example, Russian Kh-47M2 Killjoy hypersonic air-launched ballistic missiles.

The service has decided to also explore what IBCS integration with its Terminal High Altitude Air Defense system would look like.

“What that would allow us to do is create a tighter coupling between the THAAD system and the Patriot system and via that tighter coupling, then you can manage the battle space in a much more efficient way,” Lozano said.

“You could launch a THAAD interceptor against a particular target and then, as backup, launch a PAC-3 interceptor and it opens up the amount of battle space that you can use to take advantage of two interceptors against a very stressing threat,” he said, “and in that same vein maintain the magazine depth of both family of interceptors.”

The Missile Defense Agency has done some Patriot and THAAD integration work in recent years in response to an urgent operational need in the Indo-Pacific theater. For example, the agency was able to launch a PAC-3 MSE queued off of early THAAD radar data. MDA has coded the THAAD MSE integration and launch on remote capabilities and plans to drop it into the next THAAD software upgrade.

But without IBCS integration, Patriot and THAAD pairing is still limited in scope.

“If we could do the THAAD IBCS integration then that brings in the full suite of integrated capabilities that allows us to have a more homogenous, seamless, netted architecture against all these threats within the Patriot, [Integrated Fire Protection Capability] architecture,” Lozano said. (Source: Defense News Early Bird/Defense News)

17 Oct 24. Dynateq International unveils new Rogue weapon systems. Dynateq International, a division of Reunert Applied Electronics, is broadening its successful Rogue series of remotely controlled weapon systems (RCWS) with two new offerings: the 23 mm Super Rogue and the 12.7 mm Sea Rogue.

The original Land Rogue, designed to accommodate either a 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine gun, can also be equipped with four 76 mm smoke grenade launcher tubes. The larger Super Rogue series was developed to support 20 mm calibre weapons for extended-range combat. The Super Rogue 2 is designed to mount a 20×139 mm cannon, while the Super Rogue 3 is compatible with a 20×128 mm cannon. Additionally, the series can be outfitted with 30×173 mm and 30×113 mm cannons. For low-intensity operations, Dynateq offers a lightweight version, the Rogue LITE, tailored for 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm applications.

The Land and Sea Rogue RCWS consists of a console with a display screen for the cameras on the mount and a joystick control. The turret is gyro-stabilised and electrically driven. An optical observation and sighting system is mounted on the turret alongside the weapon with a variety of daylight and thermal imaging cameras, and a laser rangefinder.

A key highlight of the Rogue series is the latest 23 mm Super Rogue, specifically developed for the African defence market, where 23 mm calibre cannons, like those used in the ZU-23-2 and SZU-23-4 anti-aircraft systems, are widely deployed.

Alongside the 23 mm variant, Dynateq International has also successfully designed, tested, and delivered a new iteration of the 12.7 mm Sea Rogue RCWS, purpose-built for fast interceptor vessels where weight is a critical factor. This new Sea Rogue RCWS weighs just 180 kg, including the weapon and 200 rounds of ammunition, making it ideal for high-speed naval platforms.

The 12.7 mm Sea Rogue provides an azimuth range of -170° to +170° and an elevation range from +70° to -20°. Its advanced electro-optical suite includes a day camera, thermal imager, and laser rangefinder, with optional optical tracking for enhanced accuracy. The system can also be integrated with a Combat Management System (CMS) for improved operational coordination.

The entire Rogue lineup is engineered to perform reliably in challenging environments, such as those found in the Middle East. The Rogue and Super Rogue systems have been exported to several countries, including Benin, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates. Domestically, the South African Navy employs naval versions of the Rogue system on its frigates and newly commissioned Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels (MMIPVs). (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

14 Oct 24. UVisionUSA Unveils Autonomous Multi-Launch Loitering Munition System. UVisionUSA, a global pioneer in loitering munition systems, unveils its latest innovation: the autonomous multi-launch system. This cutting-edge solution marks a significant evolution from single munition operations to an advanced multi loitering munitions system capable of launching and managing multiple HERO 120 munitions simultaneously, coupled with advanced mission planning capabilities.

The newly introduced system offers unprecedented operational flexibility to armed forces, allowing for autonomous mission management from target engagement to neutralization. It integrates seamlessly with various intelligence-gathering platforms, including tactical UAS, drones, and command and control systems. The system’s real-time AI-driven automatic target recognition and mission management capabilities ensure rapid and accurate responses to both pre-identified and time-sensitive targets. Operators can deploy multiple loitering munitions per operator, with the system continuously processing intelligence from multiple sources.

Designed for saturated area dominance, the system can launch munitions in waves, overwhelming enemy defence and providing operators with full mission control and the ability to abort missions’ mid-flight if necessary.

The containerized design of the HERO-120 system ensures quick deployment across various platforms without the need for mechanical or electrical modifications. Its unparalleled mobility and flexibility make it easily integrable with existing and third-party command and control structures on trucks, naval vessels, and other mobile platforms.

Dr. Ran Gozali, Chairman of the Board of Directors, UVision USA and CEO of UVision Air, states: “Our new holistic battlefield solution revolutionizes mission planning and execution. With the ability to manage multiple loitering munitions and autonomously decide the engagement of multiple targets, operators can concentrate on strategic decisions, enhanced lethality and fire-power efficiency while operating from stand-off position.” (Source: ASD Network)

15 Oct 24. BAE Systems and the Swedish Defence Material Administration (FMV) signed a Letter of Intent at the Association of the U.S. Army 2024 (AUSA) trade show on Monday agreeing to work together on developing the Tridon Mk 2 ground-based air defense system.

“BAE Systems Bofors has an impressive legacy in air defence and we have been strengthening the air defence capabilities of Sweden and its partners for many years,” said Lena Gillström, vice president and general manager of BAE Systems Bofors, based in Karlskoga, Sweden. “With this Letter of Intent, together with the Swedish customer we can develop a demonstrator of our latest product, the Tridon Mk2 to prove its capabilities in helping defend Sweden and its partners.”

Tridon Mk2 is a modern 40mm anti-aircraft system made for combating a wide range of ground-based and airborne threats, including small targets such as drones. It was launched by BAE Systems Bofors at Eurosatory in June 2024, following a rapid development effort focused on delivering a new CUAS system based on proven technology. It is fully adapted for the modern battlefield with high precision and efficiency, providing security and protection for both military forces and civil infrastructure. Tridon Mk2 is modular and can be mounted on various mobile or stationary platforms.

Based on learning from Ukraine and other environments, Sweden is looking for new capabilities to defend its Armed Forces and infrastructure from a growing variety of air threats. The new Tridon Mk2 demonstrator is intended to be trialed by Sweden to prove its counter-UAS capabilities.

11 Oct 24. Autonomous Algorithms Demoed for Launched Effects Aircraft. The Launched Effects (LE) in Kutta Technologies’ autonomous mission flight tests executed autonomous cooperative target surveillance, terrain-following flight, and target tracking. The LEs executed autonomous cooperative target surveillance, terrain-following flight, and target tracking. This technology met an even more challenging Advanced Teaming requirement by successfully demonstrating coordinated effects while transferring targets between team members. Human involvement consisted of high-level supervisory commands such as “identify targets in this sector.”

Since contract initiation in 2019, Kutta developed and tested software to automatically manage LEs and their on-board payloads. The resulting software autonomously flies the LEs while automatically controlling the payloads, and performing sophisticated Detect, Identification, Location and Report (DILR) missions.

Michele Atkinson, Senior Program Manager of Kutta’s Advanced Teaming efforts, said; “Over the last four years, we have frequently tested these algorithms with LEs in relevant environments to fine tune them.

“The result is an innovative autonomy product that offers advanced autonomous teaming and coordination for reconnaissance planning and coordinated effects.” (Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)

17 Oct 24. IAI reveals Teaser missile with external optical guidance. IAI’s Teaser, revealed at AUSA 2024, is a guided missile that does not rely upon a homing sensor or GNSS. (Janes/Dan Wasserbly)

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) announced it has completed a development phase for its Teaser, an automatic command to line-of-sight infantry missile that uses external optical guidance without a homing sensor or global navigation satellite services (GNSS).

Teaser “can attack ground targets, light structures, lightly armoured vehicles, low-altitude aerial vehicles, and moving targets”, the company said in its 15 October announcement at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) conference in Washington, DC.

The missile does not require GNSS and does not have a homing sensor, IAI said. “It uses an external guidance system (the Teaser-Sight) to guide the missile automatically to the target,” IAI said, adding that Teaser-Sight can connect to external sensors.

The system communicates via a radio frequency (RF) datalink with AES-256 encryption to guide the missile, Avi Kadoori, business development manager at IAI, told Janes on 16 October. Without onboard optics and guidance systems, the missile weighs 2.2 kg less than similar missiles with those systems, Kadoori said.

According to a company fact sheet, Teaser is 70 cm in length, 8.4 cm in diameter, and can travel at 200 m/s. The system has two modes of operation: shoulder-launched, with the Teaser-Sight attached to the canister, and remote-launched.

When shoulder-launched, the entire system is carried by a single soldier and can be launched from “enclosed areas” with a two-stage (ejection and booster) embedded motor, IAI said. (Source: Janes)

17 Oct 24. Five companies selected for US Army artillery demonstrations. Around USD4bn in total was awarded to five companies to officially demonstrate systems that can produce a longer range than the current M109 Paladin howitzer, the army announced on 15 October.

American Rheinmetall Vehicles (ARV), BAE Bofors, Hanwha Defense USA, General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS), and Elbit Systems USA were given other transaction authority (OTA) contracts for demonstrations that will take place all over the world and wrap up before the end of the calendar year, self-propelled howitzer (SPH) programme officials told reporters at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) 2024 conference. After the demonstrations wrap up, a competitive evaluation ending in a downselect will begin sometime in fiscal year (FY) 2026.

The Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA) programme has now been christened the Self-Propelled Howitzer Modernization (SPH-M) line of effort.

Multiple companies told Janes that the army was estimating November 2025 for final competitive evaluation at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, but that time could be pushed. A draft request for proposals is expected in January 2025.

Competitive evaluation is not limited to the five companies, said Brigadier General Rory Crooks, director of the army’s Long Range Precision Fires Cross-Functional Team. He said the army is open to different approaches and technology.

The demonstration will assess performance, maturity, and availability, according to Lieutenant Colonel Todd Mueller, product manager for SPH-M.

“If the performance is there, but you can’t build it or buy it, it’s not really good to an artillery battalion,” he said during a media roundtable on 15 October. (Source: Janes)

16 Oct 24. US Army speeds up development of multipurpose ‘launched effects.’ With funds freed up from the U.S. Army’s aviation rebalance earlier this year, the service will move more quickly on Long-Range Launched Effects development and procurement, according to the Army’s program executive officer for aviation.

Launched Effects, or LE, is the service’s term of art for an envisioned unmanned segment among its aerial platforms, capable of delivering a wide range of capabilities such as targeting, reconnaissance, surveillance, network extension or kinetic strike. Launched Effects can be deployed from both air and ground vehicles.

The effort represents a new direction in the Army’s aviation portfolio, which prioritizes drones and the more loosely defined category of LE platforms as the tip of the spear in enemy contact.

“We were able to accelerate the long-range efforts by about a year,” Brig. Gen. David Phillips told Defense News in an interview before the Association of the U.S. Army’s annual conference.

This means the Army will likely put out a request for proposals for what is considered more of a Corps-level asset in the third quarter of fiscal 2026. The service was originally looking at focusing on small and medium launched effects first and had yet to secure funding for the long-range version.

At the same time, the Army is making sure it is collaborating with the joint force to ensure it is not duplicating efforts.

“We have been paying close attention to the maturity of longer-range capability,” Phillips said.

The Army also continues to mature its medium-range capability which is in a prototyping effort well underway using Anduril Industries’ Altius 700 aircraft. Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is the mission system provider, and Aurora Flight Sciences is the system integrator. Technology Service Corp. and Northrop Grumman Information Systems are providing modular payloads.

“We completed some additional flight testing off of an MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter at Dugway Proving Ground, Utah, last month and we’re looking at a way to deliver that capability faster,” Phillips said.

The medium-range LE will also be developed in conjunction with Program Executive Office Missiles & Space to fill its requirement for a helicopter-fired Long-Range Precision Munition.

The service was debating whether it made sense to pursue a separate LRPM program through PEO M&S or if the capability essentially could be classified as an LE and was therefore a redundant effort.

The Army’s ruling is that “it is a Launched Effects Medium Range. It’s captured in that requirement and that’s [how] we’re going to go about the acquisition process,” Lt. Gen. Karl Gingrich, who overseas the programs and resources division of the Army staff at the Pentagon, told Defense News.

As part of the requirement, the Army is looking at ways to accelerate the lethal version of the medium-range LE to meet the service’s need for an air-launched precision munition.

“We’re being more efficient and effective that way,” Phillips said.

The Army has already issued a request for white papers for a short-range LE.

“We’re squarely in the evaluation space,” Phillips said.

The service plans to launch an effort late this year or early next year that will lead to a user demonstration aimed at getting feedback from the force.

The method is similar to what the service has done with other small, unmanned aircraft systems efforts. “That may sound familiar, that model, but it’s working for us in the small UAS space,” Phillips said. (Source: Defense News)

11 Oct 24. Italy’s biggest rocket and missile motor manufacturer, Avio, is set to triple production within five years as the American military and industry look to it to ease a chronic production shortfall in the United States, the firm’s CEO has said.

In July, Avio signed with Raytheon to develop “critical solid rocket motors for defense applications,” as well as partnering with the U.S. Army “for the development and fast-prototyping of a solid rocket motor for surface-to-air applications.”

The demand in the U.S. for Avio’s wares and know-how reflects the demand for rocket motors driven by conflicts around the world as well as a narrowing in supply options following the 2018 purchase of Orbital ATK by Northrop Grumman.

Avio is working on opening a U.S. production site, but will start out by working on its new American workload at its Colleferro site in Italy.

“Today we manufacture 200-300 rocket motors a year at Colleferro and can triple that in 4-5 years on present commitments,” Avio CEO Giulio Ranzo told Defense News.

Avio already works on the propulsion and other components for the Aster 30 missile, as well as solid-propellant rocket motor of the new CAMM-ER air defense missile, while its core business is space, putting 120 satellites into orbit in the last 12 years thanks to 24 launches of its Vega launcher.

Ranzo said approximately two more years would be needed for Avio to qualify Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) products at its Colleferro site as per recent U.S. contracts. The approach would however be faster and safer than waiting for the new facility in the U.S. to start its qualification phase ahead of volume manufacturing, he added.

“U.S. officials have said production in the U.S. would be the ideal, but they understand that takes time. Establishing new capacity cannot be done in months,” he said.

“There are plenty of startups trying to enter this market, but this requires decades of experience in production at scale and a large and authorized site to handle explosives” he added.

Few details have emerged about the two U.S. deals, but Ranzo said, “We have just worked on the new CAMM-ER missile which means we have fresh technical knowledge. Most equivalent systems in the U.S. date to the 1980s.”

Avio set up a U.S. subsidiary, Avio USA, in 2022, appointing as CEO James Syring, a retired U.S. Navy vice admiral and former director of the U.S. Missile Defense Agency.

Syring told Defense News, “There has been a consolidation of the industrial base, essentially leaving Northrop Grumman and Aerojet as the sole SRM manufacturers, but even before that there has been a longstanding capacity shortfall for the production of rocket motors and missiles vs current demand.”

He added, “This is not a new thing. You talk to customers and prime contractors and they say they would order double if they could. The ongoing conflicts have exacerbated the situation.”

Syring said the company’s expansion aims to top up lagging U.S. production capacity as opposed to capturing market share there.

“We hear ‘Buy American’ a lot, and that is why we are working to establish by a sizeable U.S. factory presence to serve all customers,” Syring said.

He added, “The Department of Defense has been vocal about the need to leverage international production capabilities, given the maxed out supply base. The DoD has been supportive of us getting established.”

As well as capacity, Avio also offered innovations, according to Syring. “Avio has innovative technology and capabilities for booster cases, thermal protections and nozzle manufacturing that no U.S. rocket motor supplier has.” (Source: Defense News)

11 Oct 24. DCD incorporates Aselsan 120 mm mortar onto new Springbuck armoured vehicle. DCD Protected Mobility has launched a new Springbuck double cap weapons platform vehicle, which has been fitted with a 120 mm Aselsan Alkar automated mortar system.

Officially unveiled at the recent Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition in September, the new vehicle is a double cab version of the Springbuck SD weapons platform, which debuted in single cab format in mid-2023.

The Alkar mortar has a range of up to 8 000 metres (minimum range is 1 500 metres). It features an automatic barrel laying system, automatic ammunition loading system, recoil mitigation system, and fire control system that can be integrated with a target detection radar and other sensors. It can fire in automatic and manual modes and takes less than a minute to shoot a first round. The mortar can rotate 360 degrees to bear on its target.

The 120 mm Alkar has also been fitted to BMC’s Vuran 4×4 armoured vehicle in service with the Turkish military. The Alkar – Turkey’s first domestic automatic mortar weapon system – was first exhibited in 2017 and from 2019 became available in 81 mm format.

The new Springbuck SD single cab and double cab weapons carrier variants can fit multiple weapon options, such as 14.5 and 23 mm cannons, and 60, 80 and 120 mm mortars. Unlike unarmoured ‘technicals’ fitted with weapons on the back, the DCD offerings have mine and ballistic protection and are able to withstand blasts equivalent to 8 kg of TNT (STANAG 4569 Level 3A and 3B). The double cab is able to accommodate weapon crew under armour.

The company said the Springbuck ballistic and landmine protected vehicle was built with simplicity, comfort, protection and cost effectiveness in mind and was geared specifically towards the African market.

The Springbuck SD is the Standard version, the HD is the Heavy Duty and XD is the Xtra Duty, with performance, payload and protection increasing with each model. The 4×4 SD has B6 ballistic protection (up to 7.62×51 mm rounds) and can withstand a TM57 landmine directly under the hull, or two under any wheel. The SD is the lightest in the series and weights 9 000 kg and has a 1 500 kg payload. It is powered by the MWM 6.10T 6.45 litre six cylinder turbocharged diesel delivering 194 hp.

The intermediate Springbuck HD is powered by an MWM 6.12TCA 7.2 litre six cylinder turbocharged diesel engine delivering 286 horsepower and giving a maximum speed of 110 km/h and range of 600 km. The 13 000 kg vehicle has a payload of 2 500 kg and B7 ballistic protection (up to 30.06 armour piercing rounds).

The Springbuck XD is the heaviest in the range and weighs 15 000 kg and has a payload of 3 500 kg. It carries two crew and eight personnel, who enter and egress via two side doors, a rear door and two roof hatches. With ballistic protection upgradeable to STANAG Level 3 (resistant to 7.62x52R rounds), the all-steel armoured V-shaped hull is certified against STANAG Level 4a under any wheel and 3b blast protection under the hull. A 6.7 litre Cummins turobdiesel delivers 360 hp and gives a top speed of 110 km/h and range of 600 km.

The Springbuck is available in multiple configurations, including ambulance, command and control, explosive ordnance disposal, border patrol etc.

DCD Protected Mobility’s African clients, using Springbuck and Husky vehicles, include Angola, Burundi, Congo Brazzaville, Egypt, Jordan, Kenya, Senegal, Nigeria and South Africa. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

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MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

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O9 Oct 24. Galvion receives further US DoD orders for their MAX-8 Mission Adaptive Charging Station™ and Squad Power Manager™ (SPM.). Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of integrated power and data management solutions and innovative head protection systems, has announced the receipt of further orders from US DoD for their MAX-8 Mission Adaptive Charging Station™ and Squad Power Manager™ (SPM). Galvion’s Nerv Centr® power management solutions have been selected as a part of a System Modernization Program (SMP) for the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND) Dismounted Reconnaissance Sets, Kits, and Outfits (DRSKO) Program of Record. This announcement coincides with the AUSA event taking place in Washington DC, 14-16 October 2024, where Galvion is exhibiting at booth 733.

The customized power management solutions include the widely fielded Squad Power Manager™ (SPM) and Mission Adaptive Charging Station™ (MAX-8). Initial orders for 124 combined SPM and MAX-8 systems have been received to support the National Guard and Army DRSKO requirements following the successful completion of their user evaluation trials in late 2023. Deliveries of these systems will begin in late 2024. Additional orders are expected to support the specific CBRND DRSKO requirements of other United States Department of Defense (US DoD) branches of service (Air Force and Marines) when subsequent fiscal year funding is released, and service specific power management requirements are validated.

The Galvion Nerv Centr® SPM™ kit provides a lightweight and compact multifunctional system to enable the harvesting and management of energy from multiple sources. Using a customized selection of intelligent cables, the system provides the ability to scavenge, distribute, and manage power from multiple power sources (solar, AC, DC, military batteries, NATO plugs, and vehicle) and convert that power into a usable format for powering devices, peripheral equipment, and recharging batteries. Galvion’s Nerv Centr® MAX-8™ is a portable charging solution built to withstand the harsh conditions of expeditionary operations. With the ability to draw power from multiple sources, including AC, solar and vehicle, the MAX-8 battery adapters offer the ability to charge different types of batteries simultaneously, with no setting changes needed. The SPM and the MAX-8 feature intelligent functionality, including prioritization of needs, topping off the fullest battery first, automatic evaluation of power source and adjustment of charge rates to maximize power and minimize charge time.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion, said: “We’re very proud to be supplying CBRND warfighters with customized solutions that will improve the power management efficiency of their DRSKO kits. Our systems are deployed across multiple US units and organizations to enhance the overall capability that helps to protect the warfighter and the nation.” He added: “Our priority at Galvion is to deliver operational efficiencies and effectiveness for our users. These power management solutions simplify logistics by reducing battery burden and resupply requirements while ensuring that all mission-critical equipment is powered and ready to go in even the most austere environments. Faster charging means less burden while out in the field, allowing teams to do more with less, and that is what drives everything that we do here at Galvion.”

10 Oct 24. Hanwha Aerospace unveils unmanned MLRS concept.

South Korean defence prime Hanwha Aerospace took the opportunity at the inaugural Korea Army International Defense Industry Exhibition (KADEX) in the central city of Gyeryongdae in early October to unveil an uncrewed multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) concept.

In a social media post, Hanwha Aerospace highlighted that the Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher has a weight of just 17 tons, a significant decrease compared to conventional MLRS systems. For example, the company’s highly successful crewed K239 Chunmoo MLRS system has a weight of about 31 tons.

“This makes it deployable on amphibious assault ships and transport vessels, enhancing operational flexibility,” stated Hanwha Aerospace.

The company also asserted that the uncrewed operation offers improved survivability as personnel are not exposed in the launch area, which would be instantly targeted by counter-artillery fires once the rocket munitions have been launched.

To neutralise the deck motions of a moving naval vessel, Hanwha Aerospace integrated a proprietary system that compensates for ship movement.

“This ensures pinpoint accuracy even in rough seas, keeping rockets on target regardless of wave action,” said the company.

It is understood that the Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher will be equipped with a launcher that will be compatible with current and future munitions payload pods used by the Chunmoo,

Besides the Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher, Hanwha Aerospace is also developing new coastal defence capabilities for its Chunmoo MLRS system.

The company earlier announced that it will develop an Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile (ASBM) payload by 2027, which is aimed at providing a more affordable alternative to traditional cruise missiles.

Another possible munition could be the Korean Tactical Surface-to-Surface Missile (KTSSM), which was commissioned into service as the Thunder on the sidelines of KADEX 2024 on 4 October. The enhanced KTSSM-II munition with increased range and penetrative power over the current Thunder guided munition is also under development, with fielding expected by the early 2030s.

It is understood that both KTSSM/Thunder and the KTSSM-II munitions will constitute key pillars of South Korea’s comprehensive defence network, which will comprise the full spectrum of air defence, pre-emptive strike, and counterstrike capabilities. (Source: AMR)

14 Oct 24. Expansion, investment and technology innovation are the key focus at the AUSA Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. for Kongsberg Defense and Aerospace, Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace in Norway, as it continues to serve American customers and lead the world in next-gen, digital networked warfare.

Kongsberg’s technological innovation will be demonstrated live throughout AUSA with the company’s Integrated Combat Solutions (ICS) linking a target sharing network across multiple platforms in various partner booths on both levels of Washington Convention Center. ICS is a core enabler of modern warfare, providing all-domain visibility, command and control. This force multiplier streamlines complicated targeting cycles, networking mobility platforms and other assets for increased situational awareness and combat capability, achieved through lethality enhancements, C5I systems integration and inter-vehicle communication. The open and scalable software solution is platform agnostic, as demonstrated throughout the AUSA show floor.

Kongsberg’s ICS is also at the core of the Typhon C-UAS solution delivered to Ukraine earlier this year. The fielded system continues to see operational success in Ukraine with its ability to network multiple RWS and sensors using ICS to allow small units to conduct area C-UAS using readily available weapons and munitions to fire on a single drone for a highly successful and low-cost kinetic solution.

As global interest in counter-drone capabilities continue to escalate, Kongsberg will leverage the Typhon network to develop solutions for different C-UAS problem sets, to include a CROWS C-UAS Kit that could retrofit the thousands of Commonly Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS) already fielded to the U.S. Army on Abrams and Stryker and to support light infantry with existing weapons and munitions such as .50 caliber machine guns or 70mm rockets deployed as APKWS.

Kongsberg also produces the Remote Weapon System for the U.S. Marine Corps Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS), which integrates medium caliber cannons and missiles to provide short-range air defense. This critical system is under contract and moving into full-rate production. Kongsberg has long been the sole provider of remote weapon stations to the U.S. Army, and now the Marine Corps is standardizing on Kongsberg lethality solutions – both hardware and software – specifying Kongsberg remote turrets and weapon stations as well through its MADIS, ACV-P, ACV-30 and ARV programs.

The U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Combat Vehicle 30mm program (ACV-30) incorporates a medium caliber turret from Kongsberg. The system continues to undergo government testing. Production capacity will be augmented by a recently announced expansion in the company’s Pennsylvania facility.

Two Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) prototypes will also be on display in the BAE Systems booth. One is equipped with the same Kongsberg 30mm turret as the ACV-30, which could bring significant benefits to the Army and FMS partners in terms of capability, lethality and commonality in terms of training, networked combat CONOPS and sustainment. The AMPV Modular Turreted Mortar System (MTMS), which just completed U.S. Army evaluations at the Yuma Test Center and a successful demonstration at the Maneuver Warfighter Conference will also be displayed. This second prototype integrates the AMPV and common top plate with the Patria/Kongsberg NEMO remote-controlled 120mm turreted mortar system.

Kongsberg is the world leader in remote weapon system production and has served the U.S. Department of Defense for more than 20 years, providing critical remote weapon systems and turrets for land, maritime and air defense programs. All RWS and remote turrets delivered to U.S. customers are manufactured in the Kongsberg Johnstown, Penn. facility and leverage an extensive American supply base. Delivery programs include the MADIS RWS to the U.S. Marine Corps and the CROWS to the U.S. Army. Other deliveries include Naval Strike Missiles (NSM) to the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps and the NASAMS air defense system for protecting the White House and the National Capital Region. The top provider to the U.S., Kongsberg delivers unsurpassed quantities with increased capacity, having recently announced expansion at its Pennsylvania facility and the establishment of a new missiles production facility in Virginia.

10 Oct 24. KAI plans Light Armed Helicopter deliveries from December.

Korea Aerospace Industries’ (KAI’s) third Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) prototype flies during the 76th anniversary of the Armed Forces Day at Seoul Air Force Base on 25 September 2024. (Kim Jae-Hwan/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is preparing to deliver the first of 10 contracted Light Armed Helicopters (LAHs) to the Republic of Korea Army (RoKA) from December, a company spokesperson has said.

According to the spokesperson, the first production helicopter has started flight-testing. “The helicopter can be delivered to the RoK Army after the test flight is successfully [completed],” the spokesperson told Janes on 10 October.

The delivery schedule is in line with KAI’s December 2022 contractual agreement with the South Korean government. The RoKA’s acquisition of the 10 helicopters is valued at KRW302 bn (USD22.44 m). This includes integrated product support and training for first-time operators, Janes reported.

According to the company spokesperson, KAI is working to complete the production of the remaining helicopters in the batch.

South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has previously said that deliveries of the batch will take place after the army completes its “acceptance inspection”.

The South Korean government awarded KAI a second production contract, valued at KRW1.4 trillion, in December 2023. Helicopters from this production batch are due to be delivered to the RoKA from the fourth quarter of 2025, according to KAI. The South Korean Ministry of National Defense (MND) has said that the LAH will become a core component of the RoKA’s mobile strike force.

Imagery analysis suggests that KAI has produced at least three airworthy LAH prototypes. Helicopter No 001 conducted its maiden test flight in July 2019. (Source: Janes)

10 Oct 24. Hanwha Defense USA (HDUSA) and its parent company Hanwha Aerospace will exhibit artillery and other defense products at the upcoming Association of the U.S. Army’s (AUSA) Annual Meeting & Exposition, taking place from October 14 to16, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.

HDUSA seeks to leverage Hanwha’s proven technologies and mature production processes to locally deliver defense solutions that meet the most urgent needs of the United States and Canadian armies. Hanwha will emphasize international interoperability and industrial agility by presenting adaptive and dependable ordnance, munitions, and vehicles during the three-day show. This is very much aligned with this year’s theme of “Transforming for a Complex World.”

“HDUSA has the benefit of Hanwha’s expansive range of proven and reliable systems. But it’s more than that. Hanwha has a rich legacy of predictable program performance through disciplined process execution,” said Mike Smith, President and CEO of Hanwha Defense USA. “This is what HDUSA is positioned to bring to the US customer cost-effective combat capability beyond the speed of need.”

“We are focused on providing low-risk, long-range artillery capability, enhanced human effectiveness through manned and unmanned teaming solutions, and finding ways to ‘innovate at the round’ to address deficits in range, capacity, and survivability of current systems,” Mike added. “We believe there is a window to help the Army meet its needs with the proven platforms and technology we offer.”

Highlights of Hanwha’s show display include:

K9A2 Self-Propelled Howitzer: The 155mm/52-calibre K9A2 Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH) has a fully automatic handling system, an automatic turret, and an increased rate of fire of 10 rounds per minute at the push of a button, compared to the A1 with a rate of fire of 6 to 8. At this year’s show, HDUSA will be showcasing the A2 variant—a first for AUSA.

The K9 is the most widely used SPH in the world due to its firepower, high mobility, and survivability. It can engage targets at a range of 40 kilometers with currently available conventional ammunition and has demonstrated a range of 50+ kilometers with various extended projectiles. About 2,000 K9 vehicles, including localized variants, are in production or in service with ten nations, including Poland, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Australia, and Egypt, with the most recent country being Romania.

Modular Charge System: Hanwha’s 155mm Artillery Modular Charge System (MCS) is a Joint Ballistic Memorandum of Understanding (JBMoU)-compliant modular charge designed for use in 39 and 52 caliber gun configurations. The MCS features a clean burning charge that leaves little to no residue, eliminating the need for barrel swabbing between fires; the system is also equipped with high-strength combustible cases that can withstand the demands of rapid firing—both of which contribute to an increased rate of fire.

GRUNT (GRound UNcrewed Transport): The GRound UNcrewed Transport (GRUNT) is a 6×6 hybrid electric vehicle designed to support infantry operations, such as ammunition transport, medical evacuation, reconnaissance, and fire support. The vehicle can drive up to 290 kilometers when fully charged and has a maximum payload of more than 900 kilograms, offering a significant improvement in combat support and maneuvering capabilities. The GRUNT is an evolution from the legacy Arion-SMET, offering enhanced capability.

Wheeled Howitzer: Hanwha Aerospace is developing a wheeled Mobile Howitzer (MH) utilizing K9A2 turret technology, an adapter/mounting ring with stabilizers, and a heavy (8×8) truck platform. The MH is in the prototyping phase and will use a 52-calibre armament common with the K9A1/2, have a fully automated firing sequence, and be paired with a wheeled resupply vehicle utilizing the same ammunition transfer technology found in the K10 Ammunition Resupply Vehicle (ARV). With this new platform underway, Hanwha’s customers will have options of tracked and wheeled platforms that offer the same high performance.

Integrated Vetronics System: Hanwha Systems, an affiliate of Hanwha Aerospace, will display its integrated Vetronics System (IVS), which functions as the “brain” and “sensory network” of various ground combat systems such as main battle tanks, armored vehicles, self-propelled howitzers

Please visit Hall B/Booth No. 2809 to see the displays and learn more about Hanwha’s offerings.

10 Oct 24. Chemring, the FTSE250 business specialising in the manufacture and provision of technology and services to the aerospace, defence and security sector, today announces a joint feasibility study with the Norwegian Government into a new production facility.

On 10 October 2024, the Norwegian Government announced new measures to strengthen the Norwegian defence industry. Launching its roadmap for increased production capacity in the defence industry, the Norwegian Government has identified that the production of high explosives in Europe is significantly lower than the growing demand, especially for HMX, RDX and NTO. It also identified that, as one of only two manufacturers of advanced military explosives in Europe, Chemring Nobel’s production is crucial to both NATO and European allies.

This co-funded feasibility study, which is expected to be concluded by the end of 2024, will among other things investigate the geographic location, infrastructure requirements and environmental considerations of building a new production facility. The study will also consider the role and the levels of any financial contribution made by the Norwegian Government.

Norway’s Minister of Defence, Bjørn Arild Gram, commented:

“We see the production of military explosives as the most crucial Norwegian defence industrial contribution to Ukraine and Allied forces’ needs. Chemring is one of only two major manufacturers of advanced military explosives in Europe, and in our opinion they are the producer in Europe and North America that can establish increased production the fastest. Chemring’s production is crucial to help the West continue to support Ukraine with weapons. This joint study is key to unlocking further capacity into the supply chain.”

Michael Ord, Chief Executive of Chemring, added: “Today’s announcement is a clear indicator of the need to rapidly increase capacity across the defence industrial base to counter the numerous threats faced by NATO and its European allies. We are grateful to the support being provided by the Government of Norway and look forward to working closely with them on this important project.”

09 Oct 24. Eurosam’s first Aster 30 B1NT missile demonstrates capabilities. The test demonstrated the missile’s capabilities against a target in a complex scenario.

The missile was fired from an upgraded SAMPT launcher. Credit: DGA Essais de Missiles Site Landes/ OCCAR-EA.

The Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) has announced the first successful firing of the Aster 30 B1 New Technology (B1NT) missile at a testing site in France.

The French Armament Directorate (DGA) carried out the first qualification firing of the missile, developed by Eurosam, at DGA Essais de Missiles firing range.

It was carried out in presence of representatives of the three participating states (France, Italy and the UK) of the historical trilateral FSAF- Principal Anti-Air Missile Systems (PAAMS) cooperation.

Eurosam is a Franco-Italian joint-venture created between MBDA France, MBDA Italy and Thales.

The test demonstrated the Eurosam-developed missile’s capabilities in a complex scenario.

The missile was fired from an upgraded SAMPT launcher, configured for the forthcoming SAMPT New Generation, which is currently under development for both nations.

This event, part of the “Mercure” firing campaign, is a collaborative effort of the OCCAR-managed bilateral programmes, Aster 30 B1NT and SAMPT NG.

The new air defence assets is planned to be deployed to the French Air Force and the Italian Army and Air Force.

The integration of the Aster 30 B1NT missile extends beyond ground-based systems, with plans to incorporate it into naval programmes like the Mid-Life Upgrade Horizon, a European naval defence project, and Pattugliatori Polivalenti d’Altura, also managed by OCCAR for France and Italy.

This initiative underscores the missile’s versatility and capability in bolstering maritime and terrestrial defence.

In February 2024, OCCAR executive administration director Joachim Sucker and Eurosam managing director Anne Diaz De Tuesta signed a new European air defence contract amendment.

This amendment is the 14th update to the FSAF-PAAMS agreement. This programme was originally founded in October 1988 as a Franco-Italian venture in the development of anti-air missiles.

The latest amendment stipulates several offerings to the air defence portfolios of France, Italy and the UK. (Source: airforce-technology.com)

09 Oct 24. UK Royal Navy Wildcat fires Sea Venom anti-ship missile. The Wildcat is fitted with .50cal gun and carries Stingray torpedoes and Marlet lightweight missiles. Sea Venom substantially boosts the platform’s punch. A UK Royal Navy Wildcat HMA Mk2 attack helicopter has completed the first guided firing of an MBDA Sea Venom anti-ship missile, substantially increasing the capability of the aircraft.

The firing took place at the Aberporth range in Wales and was against a target vessel consisting of of three containers atop a barge. The target was designed and built by QinetiQ and each container wall had multiple individually controlled heating elements to simulate a target more accurately.

Lt Com Robin Kenchington, from the Royal Navy’s test and evaluation squadron 744 Naval Air Squadron, said: “Every aspect of the firing worked well.

“The Wildcat has another potent addition to its arsenal, increasing the ability of front-line crews to fight from a greater stand-off distance; this maximises their lethality whilst keeping them safe from enemy defences,” he added.

The Wildcat can already fire Sting Ray torpedoes for defeating underwater threats and lightweight Martlet missiles for attacking boat swarms or small ships but previously had been unable to act against larger warships such as corvettes.

Sea Venom is primarily anti-ship missile designed to destroy a range of attack craft up to large vessels from safe stand-off ranges at up to 20km away.

The missile has a 30kg warhead and coastal suppression capability, meaning it can hit shoreline targets, destroying potential threats to warships operating nearby. It can operate in a range of profiles, including sea skimming, and can be fired in a salvo. (Source: News Now/Shephard)

14 Oct 24. Moog Inc. (NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B) Defense Division in coordination with teammate, American Rheinmetall Vehicles (ARV) will display the new Flexible Mission Platform (FMP) to an expected audience of 33,000 attendees at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington DC from October 14-17, 2024. The FMP will be integrated onto a Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET) in ARV’s booth #2249. Additionally, a second FMP display will be on exhibit in the Moog booth #1051. The innovative FMP is a missile, mission, and platform agnostic system which allows users to seamlessly integrate weapons, sensors, or other mission packages onto any required vehicle, container, or trailer.

The FMP display in ARV’s booth will be fitted with both Javelin and Coyote launchers. Integrated onto the S-MET robotic vehicle, this configuration is ideal for anti-armor and air defense applications. “The integration of these advanced technologies, FMP and S-MET, reflects our continued commitment to providing the Warfighter with new solutions to meet current and future challenges. I appreciate the collaborative effort and innovative spirit of both teams in producing this unique capability,” said Chris Haag, Senior Director, Business Development, American Rheinmetall Vehicles, LLC.

In the Moog booth, the FMP – nominated for AUSA National Partner Best New Product Award 2024 – will feature daily changes of the missile launchers to showcase the transformative qualities of this pioneering product. The Army audience will be able to see various combinations of anti-armor and c-UAS effectors/launchers on the rugged pedestal throughout the three-day event. “One of our goals at AUSA is to clearly demonstrate the flexibility engineered into our product designs to meet the needs of U.S. and allied forces. Displaying diverse missile launcher integration capabilities will do just that,” said Jason Weiss, Land Systems Director at Moog Inc.

09 Oct 24. Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC), a leading manufacturer of medium-caliber cannons, is introducing its next-generation M230 Link Fed (M230LF) Dual Feed Bushmaster® Chain Gun®, offering two ammunition feed paths for the first time. This new 30x113mm medium caliber chain gun is a proven variant of the M230LF chain gun to counter uncrewed aerial threats (C-UAS) and ground engagements.

By offering a dual feed, the need for mixed ammunition belts in a single feed is eliminated.
The ability to switch between two kinds of ammunition is now possible. A standard recommended ammunition load includes XM1211 proximity fuzed rounds for C-UAS and XM1198 high explosive, dual purpose rounds for anti-armor capability.
The M230LF is currently at Technology Readiness Level 6. Meeting this threshold enables the capability to undergo live fire demonstrations that are currently scheduled for early 2025.

Dave Fine, vice president, armament systems, Northrop Grumman: “The M230LF Dual Feed Bushmaster Chain Gun offers new flexibility by switching between ammunition paths using dual-feed technology. Using advanced technology combined with five decades of battle-proven experience, this next-generation cannon will empower operators to quickly respond to threats. This chain gun is the latest in our Bushmaster line to deliver reliable, multi-mission capabilities addressing the evolving threat environment.”

About the M230LF Dual Feed Bushmaster:

As the first medium caliber chain gun in the world to offer a dual feed, the M230LF brings flexible lethality to the evolving battlespace. The cannon’s system can instantly switch between ammunition paths, enabling operators to seamlessly address targets that require different 30x113mm ammunition types.

A dual feed system gives operators the option to change between advanced ammunition rounds with the flip of a switch, delivering increased mission flexibility and lethality. The ability to select between two different rounds ensures targets are addressed with the best ammunition for the target type saving time, reducing logistical burdens and allowing for more engagements before needing to reload the system.

For operators already using the M230LF, the Bushmaster loads out at a similar weight to the single feed M230LF and features 60%-part commonality, leading to faster routine repairs and decreased down time for maintenance. Single feed M230LF cannons will continue to be produced for customers that prefer that option.

08 Oct 24. Trophy vehicle-defense system gets top-attack upgrade. Israeli defense contractor Rafael has equipped its Trophy active protection system with a top-attack defense capability, closing a vulnerability against drones and missiles that has plagued even heavily armored vehicles, according to the vendor.

Rafael officials unveiled the upgrade in a briefing here last week held ahead of the AUSA arms exhibition in Washington next week, where the company will exhibit its wares.

At the briefing marketing executive Ehud Nir showed a video of the system undergoing live-fire testing, with a countermeasure destroying a drone hurtling toward a vehicle’s turret from high above.

The company declined to specify how the upgrade works or when the capability was first introduced on Trophy, saying only the system had undergone numerous development cycles since first being fielded more than ten years ago.

The top-attack capability is available by way of a software upgrade to existing Trophy installations, according to Rafael.

Trophy is a defensive system equipped with so-called soft defense measures, such as electronic warfare, and an active defense system that includes physical interceptors destroying incoming projectiles before impact with a vehicle’s body.

It consists of a number of sensors and a radar with four antenna panels mounted around the vehicle. The interception process engages only if the system detects that a threat will damage the vehicle.

The system is in use on the Israeli Merkava Mark 3 and 4 tanks and the Israeli Namer armored personnel carrier. Trophy is also found on American Abrams tanks and has been tested on Stryker APCs and Bradley Fighting Vehicles. In February 2021 Rafael signed a deal with Germany to equip the country’s Leopard 2 tanks.

(Source: Defense News Early Bird/Defense News)

BATTLESPACE Comment: Clearly one of the major uses for this new Bushmaster will be for C-UAS applications building on the already proven C-UAS systems using the Echodyne radar.

08 Oct 24. Raytheon completes tests for Barracuda mine neutralisation system. The latest testing saw the use of a prototype unit, as Barracuda conducted operations and gathered information across a range of ocean conditions.

RTX business Raytheon has completed a series of controlled environmental tests for the US Navy’s Barracuda Mine Neutralisation System.

The tests were conducted at the Naval Surface Warfare Centre Carderock Division in Bethesda, Maryland.

The Barracuda is a 26lb, 48in-long expendable, semi-autonomous uncrewed underwater vehicle propelled by four small water jets. It is the US Navy’s programme of record for next-generation mine neutralisation.

It employs sonar and camera systems to identify and neutralise bottom, near-surface and drifting sea mines.

The latest testing saw the use of a prototype unit, as Barracuda conducted operations and gathered information across a range of ocean conditions, including different sea states and aquatic currents.

During the tests, the system demonstrated its hydrodynamic control, detecting, tracking, and maintaining position on targets on its own.

The recent tests represent the first instance of Raytheon conducting such evaluations with the Barracuda underwater vehicle.

This progress brings the programme closer to fulfilling operational requirements.

Raytheon Naval Power president Barbara Borgonovi said: “This event marks a significant milestone in the advancement of underwater security and naval defence.

“Barracuda’s performance reaffirms its position as a game-changing solution for identifying and neutralising naval mines, a critical challenge in modern naval operations.”

Raytheon first secured a contract for the Barracuda project in 2018.

The US Department of Defense awarded Raytheon an $83m contract for the supply of these mine neutralisers in 2018.

A total of 128 Barracudas are being built, with 63 for contractor trials and 65 for the Navy’s trials, according to Seapower. The service is yet to decide on the launch platforms for the system.

Following a design review in March 2023, the programme has now transitioned into the qualification testing phase.

In July 2023, Raytheon received a contract to provide engineering development model units to the US Navy.

The Barracuda programme is scheduled to enter low-rate initial production by 2027. (Source: naval-technology.com)

08 Oct 24. From Sea to Space: L3Harris Provides Multi-domain Defense Solutions. L3Harris is further diversifying its capabilities in the undersea and space domains. With a contract to supply future suborbital sounding rockets and continued facility expansion to support next generation torpedo propulsion systems, neither outer space nor the deep sea are limiting factors for L3Harris.

At L3Harris we anticipate and mitigate risk with end-to-end solutions that meet our customers’ mission-critical needs across all domains. The company’s target missile production site in Orlando, Florida, is primarily focused on designing, building and deploying sophisticated ballistic missile targets that are capable of mimicking a variety of realistic threat scenarios to thoroughly test U.S. missile defense technologies.

Building on the success of their ballistic missile target business, the Orlando team is leveraging its expertise in areas like avionics, advanced vehicle guidance systems, and attitude control systems to expand into adjacent markets.

In January, the U.S. Space Force awarded L3Harris an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to supply sounding rockets, or suborbital research rockets, to launch a variety of payloads for U.S. government agencies on an as-needed basis. L3Harris will design, deliver and help operate launch vehicles that achieve the customer’s specific mission objectives.

The Space Force sounding rocket contract comes amid L3Harris Orlando’s parallel expansion into undersea propulsion manufacturing.

“We’re building on our existing capabilities and expanding our operations to support the national security needs of today and tomorrow,” said Mike Holton, General Manager, Orlando Operations, Aerojet Rocketdyne, L3Harris. “Whether it’s providing launch services or developing the next-generation of torpedo propulsion systems, it’s important that we meet and exceed the evolving needs of our customers.”

The L3Harris team in Orlando recently modified 10,000 square feet of factory space to build Stored Chemical Energy Propulsion Systems (SCEPS) for next-generation torpedoes. SCEPS harnesses a reaction between lithium and other chemicals to produce unique propulsion characteristics. L3Harris is under various contracts to provide SCEPS to the U.S. Navy.

“This year, we’re on contract to deliver multiple full afterbodies,” Holton said, referring to the part of the torpedo that houses its propulsion system. “Our team specializes in the lithium casting and energetic loading for the SCEPS boiler system.”

Between the addition of torpedo propulsion manufacturing and the reintroduction of ground-launched rockets, the L3Harris team in Orlando is ready to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

(Source: ASD Network)

08 Oct 24. Rheinmetall is supplying qualification rounds of a new generation of tank ammunition for a joint qualification of the Bundeswehr and the British Army. Rheinmetall has successfully completed the development of the latest generation of its enhanced armour-piercing 120mm KE-ammunition to counter state-of-the-art protection technologies. The qualification readiness of the KE2020Neo or eKE (enhanced Kinetic Energy) ammunition has also been proven. As a result, Rheinmetall has been commissioned by the Bundeswehr and the British Army to manufacture qualification samples of the new ammunition. A corresponding official qualification contract was signed in September 2020 by the Federal Office for the Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) and the management of Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH.

The new 120 mm x 570 KE2020Neo kinetic energy ammunition continues the successful series of kinetic energy (KE) rounds from Rheinmetall. Thanks to the use of new technologies, the high-strength tungsten penetrator shall be able to penetrate the latest protection technologies.

Rheinmetall’s current KE projectiles also use a high-strength tungsten penetrator and offer superior performance against modern armour. The first generation to come into use was the DM13. It was followed by the more powerful DM23 in the mid-1980s, and yet later, the DM33. Rheinmetall developed two types of performance-enhanced KE ammunition when the Leopard 2 was upgraded to the A6 version. These were the forerunners of the DM53 and DM63 models used by the Bundeswehr. The DM63 is now available in the REACh-compliant version A1. The enhanced DM73 is currently the most advanced iteration, which has been introduced in the Bundeswehr for use with the L55A1 high-pressure weapon.

The recently awarded qualification contract once again underlines Rheinmetall’s leading role in the field of main armour armament and smoothbore technology. Rheinmetall’s 120mm smoothbore technology includes the Rh120 guns and the related ammunition family. It is the de facto standard for main battle tanks in NATO and the western hemisphere. It is used, among others, in the Leopard 2 and M1 Abrams main battle tanks and is currently also being fitted in the British Challenger 3 main battle tank with its increased combat effectiveness.

07 Oct 24. Turkish KARGU UAV Hits Target Accurately with Armour-Piercing Warhead. STM Defense Technologies Engineering and Trading Inc., which develops national and modern systems in line with Turkey’s goal of a fully independent defense industry, has made a new development in the tactical mini UAV field, of which it is a pioneer in Turkey.

Closely following the changing battlefields and rapidly developing solutions, STM integrated an armor-piercing warhead into Turkey’s first national strike UAV, “STM KARGU”, which it developed with national resources and is effectively used in the fight against terrorism. After an intensive development phase, the armor-piercing KARGU, which entered the field, hit the designated target with full accuracy in its first test shot. Taking off with armour-piercing ammunition, KARGU dived on the armored vehicle determined as the target and destroyed its target with pinpoint precision in its first test shot.

Güleryüz: Armor-Piercing Head OK, Next is the RF Seeker Head

STM General Manager Özgür Güleryüz stated that they are continuously developing KARGU according to the dynamics of the battlefield and continued as follows:

“We have been working on different payload versions of KARGU for a while now. KARGU, which has been actively serving in the field with its anti-personnel ammunition warhead to date, will now affect mobile and settled land targets, durable structures and armored land vehicles with its armor-piercing warhead. User personnel will be able to remove the anti-personnel ammunition warhead and quickly change the armor-piercing warhead according to the current situation in the field. We have come up with a concept that will strengthen the hand of our soldiers, who use KARGU very actively, in the field. It will also be extremely effective in terms of export. On the other hand, we have also come to the end of the RF (Radio-Frequency) Seeker Warhead integration, which bears the signature of STM engineers. With the RF Seeker Warhead, KARGU will be able to detect and destroy enemy radar and electronic warfare systems. We will have brought a national system to our country that can affect enemy elements, especially at an effective cost.”

The Choice of More Than 10 Countries in Three Different Continents

The strike UAV KARGU, also known as the “kamikaze UAV” in the public, was developed by STM with domestic and national resources. KARGU, which entered the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces in 2018, is effectively used by various security forces in Turkey, especially the TAF, in the fight against terrorism, special operations and cross-border operations. Drawing attention in the world arena, KARGU achieved its first export success in 2021, and by 2024, it was exported to more than 10 countries on three different continents. More than 5 thousand KARGUs have been produced to date.

Hard to Detect in Enemy Territory

With its low radar cross-section feature, KARGU is difficult to detect in enemy territory and can be easily carried by a single soldier and set up in the mission area within 1 minute. The national strike UAV KARGU provides a significant surprise effect and operational superiority with its artificial intelligence and image processing capabilities, silence, and ability to deliver the explosive it carries to the target. Consisting of a strike rotary wing UAV (VIAV) and a ground control station, KARGU can operate effectively day and night with its advanced electro-optic and infrared cameras. KARGU, which can stay in the air for more than 30 minutes, has a range of 10 km. KARGU, which has mission abort, return home and self-destruct capabilities, is equipped with high-performance navigation and control algorithms. In addition to the swarm UAV technology that allows KARGUs to operate in swarms, there is also the KERKES Project that allows them to operate independently of GPS.

The Name Comes from Old Turkish

KARGU, which means “mountaintop observation tower” and “hawk” in Old Turkish, navigates completely automatically with the help of a mission computer. KARGU is particularly responsible for detecting and neutralizing threats in risky areas before soldiers enter. KARGU, which operates completely under operator control with the “Man-in-the-Loop” principle, provides reconnaissance, surveillance, intelligence and precision strike capabilities to user personnel by detecting and confirming targets in high-risk, complex conflict zones. (Source: UAS VISION/STM)

04 Oct 24. LIG Nex1 displays new Micro Guided Missile variant. LIG Nex1 launched the latest variant of its Micro Guided Missile (MGM) at the Korea Army International Defense Industry Exhibition (KADEX) 2024 in Gyeryongdae, South Korea.

The company displayed at the show a mock-up of its 40×500 mm ‘Gun-type’ MGM solution, which has been designed to provide organic precision strike capability for personnel operating at the tactical edge.

The Gun-type MGM was displayed being launched from an underslung grenade launcher (UGL) attached to the rail adapter system of an assault rifle, which also carried a laser target designator (LTD).

Similar to the ‘Drone-Launched’ MGM solution launched in 2022 at the DX Korea event in Goyang, the Gun-type MGM features a semi-active laser (SAL) seeker that allows it to be accurately guided onto its target by LTD.

Weighing 1.5 kg in all-up weight, the Gun-type MGM has a range of up to 1,000 m, a company spokesperson told Janes . LIG Nex1 did not comment on the size of the MGM’s warhead but sources said it weighed less than 1 kg, meaning it would be suited to attack soft-skinned vehicles and personnel.

The munition itself can be fitted with either fragmentation or dual-purpose warheads, the spokesperson added before suggesting a live-fire test is expected to be conducted in November ahead of a “pre-programme test and guided test” over the course of 2025. Development of the Gun-type MGM is expected to be completed the following year, the spokesperson added. (Source: Janes)

04 Oct 24. Boeing-Lockheed JV’s Vulcan rocket launches second mission. Boeing (BA.N) and Lockheed Martin’s (LMT.N) joint venture, United Launch Alliance, said on Friday its Vulcan rocket successfully launched its second mission, in what is a crucial step to receive certification for Pentagon missions. Vulcan, developed to replace ULA’s workhorse Atlas V rocket and rival the reusable Falcon 9 from Elon Musk’s SpaceX, took off from the Cape It had successfully debuted in January this year. With the launch, ULA is looking to fulfill flight test obligations and complete its certification process with the U.S. Space Force, which requires two verification flights before it can put national security payloads aboard. ULA said the U.S. Space Force — a key customer for Vulcan — will review the data and compare it to ULA’s first certification mission to ensure that the vehicle performed as expected, before it can be certified. (Source: Reuters)

04 Oct 24. Leidos Touts Small Cruise Missile Solution, Announces Successful Test Accomplishments. Leidos (NYSE:LDOS), a FORTUNE® 500 innovation leader, announced today that its small cruise missile (SCM) — nicknamed the “Black Arrow” in recognition of its range and lethality — has successfully completed captive carry and store safe separation flight tests in preparation for guided flight tests from a U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) aircraft scheduled for this fall.

Store separation testing from an AC-130J, conducted in December 2023, confirmed digital twin predictions of safe separation, benign store dynamics, and trajectory characteristics. Additional captive flight testing demonstrated integration with the Naval Surface Warfare Center Battle Management System (BMS), operational flight software function, navigation performance, and flight safety system functionality.

Understanding the Defense Department’s critical need for affordable stand-off strike capabilities, Leidos initiated work on the SCM design in 2021. In 2022, a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) was signed between the company and U.S. Special Operations Command PEO-Fixed Wing and AFSOC. Following this agreement, the team began developing SCM, a low-cost, service-common, mission-adaptable “delivery platform” designed to facilitate future spiral upgrades for both kinetic and non-kinetic missions.

“Our experience in rapidly fielding the GBU-69 Small Glide Munition (SGM) and demonstrating the DARPA X-61 Gremlins, as well as our focus on agility and innovation, have led to achieving important milestones with our small cruise missile offering,” said Mark Miller, senior vice president for missile and aviation solutions at Leidos. “We have navigated hurdles and made significant investments to integrate on — and test off — the AC-130J, preparing us to proceed with further activities once the CRADA is complete.”

Leidos is leveraging model-based systems engineering, additive manufacturing, and AI optimization practices to support the timely and cost-effective development of the SCM, which aims to provide adaptability and utility for the warfighter.

One example is a modular airframe and open system architecture that accommodates distributed manufacturing for individual subsystems, which can then be rapidly assembled and tested separately before final assembly. This approach has been utilized by the company’s SGM program, which has delivered over 4,000 units to date.

“Affordable mass at long range is a recognized concept in the strike systems community,” Miller said. “Our open architecture SCM solution is intended to integrate the best subsystem solutions, regardless of the source. We believe that recognizing that subsystems and payloads will evolve with different use cases is critical and that innovation will come from outside typical prime contractors and venture capital companies entering the market with vertically integrated solutions.”

(Source: ASD Network)

06 Oct 24. RoK unveils unmanned amphibious rocket launcher. South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace has introduced its latest innovation in defense technology at KADEX 2024: the Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher. This system marks a significant step forward in amphibious operations, offering enhanced flexibility and survivability for military forces operating in high-risk environments. In a statement from Hanwha Aerospace, said that this system is a significant step forward in amphibious operations, offering enhanced flexibility and survivability for military forces operating in high-risk environments.. The launcher’s lightweight design is one of its standout advantages, weighing just 17 tons. This makes it deployable on amphibious assault ships and transport vessels, providing increased operational versatility. Conventional multi-rocket systems typically come with far heavier configurations, which limit their deployability in such scenarios. The system’s unmanned launch capability is a critical enhancement. “By removing personnel from the launch area, we’ve dramatically improved survivability,” the company stated. This unmanned approach ensures that military forces can operate the system remotely, reducing the risk to personnel in combat zones and allowing for safer operations during amphibious landings or in contested areas. Recognizing the unique challenges posed by launching rockets from moving naval platforms, Hanwha has incorporated an advanced stabilization system. This proprietary technology compensates for ship movement, ensuring that rockets stay on target even in rough sea conditions. “We’ve integrated a system that keeps rockets on target despite wave action, ensuring pinpoint accuracy even in the most demanding maritime environments,” the statement added.

“The Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher is more than just a product; it’s a game-changer in amphibious warfare,” the company said. “It showcases our dedication to providing innovative, efficient, and reliable defense solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern military operations.”

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MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

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02 Oct 24. Kalyani Strategic Systems and AM General & Mandus Partner to Co-develop and Co-produce Next-Gen Artillery Platforms with Advanced Recoil Technology for Global Markets.

Next Generation Artillery Gun Platforms with Advanced Recoil Technology are on the Horizon for global markets.

Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd, a 100% subsidiary of Bharat Forge Ltd, India, plans to enter into a multi-party agreement with leading United States defense companies, AM General and Mandus Group LLC, to explore the co-development and co-production of next-generation artillery gun platforms.

As the battlefield changes with near peer adversaries, there is increasing demand for modern light artillery systems with enhanced firepower, precision strike, tactical mobility, and command & control capabilities. This collaboration is targeted to address the requirement of modern armies of the world in an evolving combat scenario equipping them with compact, robust, light weight, ruggedized, mobile, all-weather, all-terrain 105mm and 155mm next generation artillery gun platforms.

These next-gen artillery platforms will feature disruptive technology, responsive and survivable fires, transportability, added lethality, and will optimize crew size due to less logistics requirements. The 105-mm and 155-mm howitzer to be offered will deliver firepower and mobility while remaining lightweight and modular.

Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Government of India’s Make in India program, Baba Kalyani expressed that, “Bharat Forge is rapidly emerging as a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced artillery platforms for the world markets. This strategic collaboration aims to co-develop and co-produce the most versatile and innovative weapon systems.”

“AM General and Mandus Group are looking forward to exploring this collaboration with Kalyani and Bharat Forge to ultimately deliver advanced mobile artillery capabilities,” said John Chadbourne, AM General EVP for Business Development. “A partnership like this is a testament to our company’s commitment to be responsive and dynamic as the battlefield evolves.” (Source: ASD Network)

03 Oct 24. BPT showcases new armour innovations. With the tagline of ‘The bullet stops here’, Krugersdorp-based Bullet Proofing Technology (BPT) has supplied more than 1.3 m body armour plates and over 2 000 armoured vehicle kits to customers around the world. At the recent Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 exhibition it showcased a range of new products, including neutral buoyance armour, ultralight body armour plates, and 3D moulded armoured shields, amongst others.

BPT was established in South Africa in 1997 as a developer and manufacturer of bullet resistant and armour protection materials and systems. Since then, BPT has become South Africa’s foremost manufacturer and supplier of advanced armour protection materials and products, said Deon du Plessis, Managing Director of Bullet Proofing Technology.

The company’s main focus is on body armour plates and military vehicle armour. BPT completes 300-500 vehicle armour sets a year, and 70-150 000 body armour panels annually. The other 5% of BPT’s turnover comes from specials, including bullet traps, shields, aircraft, ship and building armour. Materials used include ceramics, Aramid fibre, armour steel, special polymers and UHMWPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) fibres.

“BPT has its own production facilities in South Africa and by using technology established in South Africa since 1976, BPT has the ability to develop and produce unique products and materials based on the threats encountered in Africa and other world regions,” Leon van der Westhuizen, BPT’s technical Director, said. The company is fully BBBEE compliant with more than 51% Black Ownership and more than 90% of all materials used are manufactured in South Africa.

BPT’s products are in use all over the world and in varying environmental conditions, from subzero temperatures in Sweden to Middle Eastern countries where temperatures can soar beyond 40 degrees Celsius. Du Plessis emphasised that BPT’s products have proven themselves in hugely different environments, and its quality control system is certified to ISO 9001:2015 requirements.

BPT brought a range of new products to the 2024 edition of the Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition, and these include:

Lightweight neutral buoyancy armour: By investing in ultra-high pressure heated platten presses, BPT has established a local manufacturing capability in ultra-low weight armour protection panels using UHMWPE materials developed in Europe and the USA. The UHMWPE plates are so light that they have neutral buoyancy and can actually float on water, thus having only a small effect on the weight and centre of rotation of any watercraft, aircraft or vehicle. This product is also extensively used in armouring luxury civilian vehicles.

“Ultralight” body armour plates: Technology has made huge leaps forward in armour development, and BPT notes the weight of body armour plates has been dropping, going from over 3 kg in 1990 to less than 1 kg now for a locally produced Level III body armour plate. At a weight of less than 1 kg for a 250 x 300 mm multi-curve plate, BPT says its “Ultralight” plates are so light and comfortable that they can be worn for extended periods. The plates exceed the requirements of NIJ 0101 Level III, by also providing protection against the threats encountered in Southern Africa, being the 5.56×45 Ball (R4) and 7.62×39 Ball (Mild Steel Core) (AK-47) threats. There are ICW (In Conjunction With) and Stand-Alone versions of the “Ultralight” plates available, with only a .1kg weight difference between the two versions.

Shields: Shields are again becoming a serious consideration for special task teams. BPT has used its newly developed “Ultralight” UHMWPE material as basis for a new lightweight Level III Shield, which, with the addition of an add-on panel, can be further upgraded to Level IV protection (up to .30-06 armour piercing rounds).

“Vikashield” add-on vehicle armour: As vehicle development and qualification costs are extremely high, it makes a lot of sense for armoured vehicle manufacturers to develop a base vehicle with a specific armour material and thickness and to qualify this to the structural and blast requirements, BPT maintains. By adding add-on materials, such as BPT’s Vikashield and other add-on armour systems, the protection level of the base vehicle can be increased to whatever is required. “As South Africa is now in the process of acquiring new lightweight border control vehicles, add-on armour such as the Vikashield system is now again a perfect solution which is available again, in a new refined system,” du Plessis said.

In addition to its new products, BPT is also highlighting the fact that it is accredited by the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) to certify ballistic testing on body armour (SANS 1658:2007 and STANAG 2920), vehicle armour (EN 1523) and military vehicle armour (STANAG 4569). This is a first for South Africa and BPT is currently the only South African company accredited to do any of this testing in their specially equipped ballistic testing facility, the company said. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

02 Oct 24. NIOA Group pushes ahead with expansion of 155mm shell production. Privately owned global munitions company NIOA Group has detailed ambitions to improve critical 155mm artillery shell production in Australia.

NIOA Group chief executive and deputy chairman of Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions (RNM) Rob Nioa detailed the expansion plan during a tour of the $90 m facility in Queensland.

RNM was commissioned in June 2022 and serial production for export to Rheinmetall in Germany began in December of the same year. The forge was originally constructed to produce approximately 30,000 DM121 projectiles per year for filling in Germany.

“The RNM facility utilises state-of-the-art technology to perform high tonnage forging of 155mm artillery shell cases,” Nioa said.

“It was designed with expansion in mind from the outset and is now capable of up to 41,000 projectile bodies per year.

“We have the flexibility to allow forging and metal parts manufacture of other munitions natures such as 81mm and 120mm mortar plus naval large calibre ammunition.”

RNM is currently forging and finishing approximately 3,000 155mm projectile bodies per month for export to Rheinmetall of Germany. The facility has a permanent staff of 106 and operates a 24-hour, three-shift production roster.

“NIOA has delivered and integrated the advanced Assegai 155mm munitions into the Australian Defence Force’s current artillery systems under the LAND 17-1 C.2 Future Artillery Ammunition program. The 155mm is now the most sought-after artillery calibre in the world,” Nioa said.

“Since the Ukraine-Russia war began, some published estimates put Ukraine’s usage at 8,000 rounds per day while NATO estimates Russia is firing up to 30,000 per day. Israel’s war on Hamas has added to the global supply pressure

“Western allies have quickly realised stockpiles were not high – and they were unprepared to support a sustained major land conflict.

“The US is ramping up production, spending bns on new and upgraded plants around the country with army officials stating a goal of 100,000 shells a month by 2025.

“Our German JV partner Rheinmetall recently received its largest order in company history record order for 155mm artillery ammunition | Rheinmetall valued at €8.5 bn to replenish German, Ukrainian and other allied stocks with deliveries to start in 2025.”

NIOA is contracted for current supply to the German Bundeswehr which has provided 241,000 rounds of 155mm ammunition military support for Ukraine.

During the recent joint statement on Australia-US Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN) 2024, defence ministers specifically highlighted Australia’s investment in the manufacture of 155mm M795 munitions, while in a joint ministerial announcement in April 2023, 155mm artillery ammunition was specifically called out as a priority.

“RNM has the capability to load, assemble and pack both training and high explosive variants of the Assegai projectile bodies at the Australian government-owned Benalla munitions facility in Victoria where NIOA has a long-term tenancy,” Nioa said.

“This would provide direct support to the sustainment of Defence’s Assegai fleet which comes into service for the Australian Defence Force in 2024 as well as giving Australia a true sovereign capability for complete round 155mm manufacture.

“With further investment in equipment, processes, and implementation of continuous operations, RNM has a surge capacity of 120,000–130,000 projectiles per year.

“In this time of global uncertainty, Australia can’t continue to rely on off-the-shelf purchases of critical munitions such as the 155mm round from allies and foreign-owned defence primes. To be a credible deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, Australia needs to be a robust contributor to the allied industrial effort.

“That means investing in munitions infrastructure such as we have here in Maryborough and a clear allocation of work so we can support the ADF in defending our nation.” (Source: Defence Connect)

02 Oct 24. Hanwha Aerospace to develop K9A3 unmanned artillery system. Hanwha Aerospace intends to develop an unmanned version of its K9A1 tracked self-propelled howitzers (SPHs).

This version of the K9A1 SPH, named K9A3, will have an extended firing range compared with the K9A1s in service with the Republic of Korea Army (RoKA), a Hanwha Aerospace official told Janes at the Korea Army International Defense Industry Exhibition (KADEX) 2024 held at Gyeryongdae from 2 to 6 October.

The official said a soldier will be able to remotely operate a K9A3, including manoeuvring and firing it, from a control vehicle. Each control vehicle will be able to control three K9A3s simultaneously, the official added.

The K9A3 will have a 58 calibre barrel and a firing range of more than 80 km, the official said. The K9A1s used by the RoKA are an upgraded version of the K9 Thunder SPH and require five crew members, including a driver, to operate.

According to Janes Land Warfare Platforms: Artillery & Air Defence, the K9A1 uses the same armament as the K9 Thunder but is fitted with improved mission system components including a Microsoft Windows-based operating system. An auxiliary power unit (APU) enables it to have enhanced operational range and performance.

Janes estimates that the RoKA and the RoK Marine Corps together have around 1,300 K9 family of SPHs in service.

Hanwha Aerospace is also developing the K9A2 SPH. The Hanwha Aerospace official said development of the K9A2 is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. (Source: Janes)

02 Oct 24. Denel fits T7 gun on its RG41 8×8. Denel’s big reveal at this year’s Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition was the mating of its RG41 eight-wheeled combat vehicle to a modified version of its G7 105 mm gun, which could provide excellent fire support for mechanised or motorised infantry.

Business Development Manager Isaac Karelse said the origin of the RG41 platform went back to the beginning of Project Hoefyster as Denel’s alternative to the Finnish Patria eight-wheeled platform, which became the South African Army’s Badger 8×8. He said that at the time, the Patria was one of the very few eight-wheeled infantry fighting vehicles available on the market.

“While the discussions were going on, the platform was designed, tested and then it went to the UAE for summer trials, in which it did exceptionally well. However, the requirements from the customer in the UAE changed and were replaced by another Denel vehicle, the RG35,” Karelse said.

As delays in the manufacture of the Patria/Badger system developed, Denel mooted the RG41 as a “drop-in” possibility for Project Hoefyster, for a possible range of vehicles alongside the Badger. Karelse explained that the RG41 became a “future requirement”. Also, the type was widely advertised for Middle Eastern markets but then Covid-19 hit, and this possibility was shelved for the time.

In the meantime, Denel was fitting remotely-operated turrets to the RG41, these being Denel’s Tactical Remote Turret (TRT), which was tested with both 20 mm and 30 mm cannon variants.

Karelse explained that during last year’s shooting trials (at Armscor’s Alkantpan test range) with the G6 155 mm self-propelled howitzer and the truck-mounted T5 system, they thought: “why should we not put a 105 mm gun onto this platform?” The 105 mm gun is basically the G7 105 mm LEO towed howitzer, but adapting it to a vehicle mount required technical changes, resulting in the Denel GT7 gun.

Next, Denel developed the T7/105 mm turret, which weighs 3 750 kg. Karelse said the turret was planned to eventually be an unmanned one, but currently– during testing and trials – is manned. The configuration shown at AAD 2024 has a vehicle commander, a driver, a gunner, and eight soldiers – seven “troops” and the section commander.

A standard infantry section is 10 men, but in a mechanised environment, this can be less due to the impact of the vehicle on the operational situation.

The RG41 has a V-shaped hull for landmine protection, with a hardened armoured “shell” for the crew; then a gap, then the “armour package” (100 mm to 130 mm) which can be augmented with add-on armour. In counterinsurgency deployments, wire mesh can be added, also with a gap, to protect the armour from Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and other projectiles.

Karelse stressed that crew survivability was key in the design, so even if the vehicle were to be destroyed, the crew would be saved. The logic behind this is that vehicles can be replaced, but soldiers cannot.

As the T7/G7 combination is still in the prototype phase, there is much work to be done, but the vehicle could act as a highly mobile self-propelled artillery system in a mechanised battalion setting, adding a much-needed punch to SANDF troops.

The G7 gun has a range of 30 km, with ammunition lethality exceeding standard 155 mm high explosive shells – the G7 basically provides 155 mm capability in a 105 mm package. Ammunition was developed by Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) and includes high explosive, high explosive pre-formed fragmentation, smoke, illuminating and other rounds. Standard projectile range is 24 km with boat tail and 30 km with base bleed. Direct fire range is from 500 to 2 000 metres.

The G7/RG41 system is equipped with an Inertial Navigation Unit (INU) which interfaces to the Gun Control Unit (GCU) that provides for automatic gun laying through hydraulic elevation/traverse drives for rapid target engagement. The ammunition handling system is a positive chain type rammer controlled from the integrated Loader Control Panel. This system enables fully automatic ramming of both the projectile and charge. Manual loading of the system provides for redundancy.

The RG41 has sufficient payload (11 000 kg) to accommodate the new turret, for a gross vehicle mass of 30 000 kg. Powered by a Deutz diesel engine, the RG41 can reach 100 km/h. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

01 Oct 24. IAI drums up interest in new Wind Demon missile. Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) displayed its new Wind Demon air-to-surface missile during the recently concluded Asian Defense and Security Exhibition (ADAS) in Manila, in an effort to increase Philippine and regional interest in the missile, a company executive said.

Unveiled in July 2024, the Wind Demon is an electro-optic (EO) cruise missile that can be launched from various aircraft including rotary-wing platforms, according to IAI.

Maxim Zemer, IAI’s senior vice-president of marketing for Asia and Africa, told Janes on 1 October that the presence of the missile and other IAI weapons and products on display at ADAS 2024 were part of a wider bid to strengthen exports to the Philippines and other Asian countries.

“When we considered our focus for the exhibition, we displayed products with regard to the Philippines but also aimed at other countries in Asia,” Zemer said.

According to an IAI press release, development of the Wind Demon was driven by a review that “highlighted the need for large quantities of effective ammunition and yet an affordable solution that can neutralise a wide range of targets using minimal resources at greater ranges”.

On its website, the company said that Wind Demon follows a predetermined mission plan to attack moving or stationary targets following launch, and strike targets at ranges exceeding 200km. (Source: Google/Janes)

01 Oct 24. Indian, Israeli companies set up firm to support MRSAM. India’s Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has formed a joint venture (JV) with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to sustain missile systems designed by the Israeli firm.

BEL said in a filing to the Bombay Stock Exchange on 27 September that the setting up of the new JV, named BEL IAI AeroSystems, was approved by India’s Ministry of Corporate Affairs earlier that same month.

BEL said the JV’s remit will be to provide repair and maintenance support for missiles deployed and operated in India. These missiles, it added, include the new Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM), an Indian version of IAI’s Barak-8 SAM.

In August BEL’s 2023–24 annual report said the company was close to finalising the JV with IAI. The annual report said the JV will provide support for weapons in India “for which the [IAI] is the main designer”.

In its filing BEL, which is headquartered in Bangalore, said it has a 40% holding of the JV comprising 164,000 shares. IAI owns the remainder. Total authorised share capital of the JV is INR82 m (USD980,000) and paid up share capital is INR41 m.

BEL and IAI jointly announced in February 2023 an intention to set up the JV. At the time, BEL said the JV would be established in New Delhi and would be positioned as a “single point of contact” delivering MRSAM support services to the Indian military.

BEL and IAI have also previously entered collaborative agreements centred on products in India including air-defence systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). (Source: Janes)

01 Oct 24. Business booming for ECM Technologies following Covid. ECM Technologies has bounced back from the Covid-19-induced slump and is busier than before the pandemic.

Eric Milburn, Managing Director of ECM Technologies, said the last year has been exceptionally good for the company, especially after the lean years of the pandemic, with activity picking up to pre-Covid levels. “We are very happy with the recovery,” he said, with strong movement on the electro-optical (EO), explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), mobility, and CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) fronts.

ECM Technologies previously supplied a substantial amount of bomb disposal equipment to the police ahead of the 2010 Soccer World Cup, and as much of that is now obsolete, there have been a lot of new procurements in the last couple of years. Much of the company’s bomb disposal/EOD range was on display at the recent Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 exhibition, with its robot range standing out along with bomb suits, portable X-ray systems and modular Bombtec equipment kits.

The robots (unmanned ground vehicles – UGVs) on display come from the ICP NewTech range, and are designed for tasks such as EOD, mine clearance, bomb disposal, firefighting etc. ECM Technologies has previously supplied robots to the South African Police Service and SA National Defence Force. Milburn sees firefighting robots (such as ICP NewTech’s Avenger Fire) as becoming increasingly popular globally.

Also notable on the EOD side of the business is a portable X-ray scanner from Scanna that can be fitted to a robot and driven remotely to, for example, a suspicious bag to identify what’s inside. The same robot can then neutralise the threat by detonation or firing a relevant projectile at it. This avoids the need to move the suspicious package.

The optics/electro-optics side of business has been nice and steady, Milburn explained, as local original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have been busy. “If our customers are doing well then we do well. We have been successful in that market because our customers are being successful. A lot of that has been driven by the situation in the Middle East and global instability.”

At AAD 2024, ECM Technologies exhibited sensors for missile guidance systems and laser range finders, a novel helmet-worn system that fuses night vision and thermal imaging into one device, Trijicon weapon sights (ECM has been the exclusive South African distributor for Trijicon for more than 30 years), different night vision tubes, armoured vehicle periscopes and vision systems from GuS Periscopes, and SureFire weapon-mounted flashlights, lasers and infrared lasers.

As the agent for Photron high-speed cameras, ECM Technologies has supplied these to the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Alkantpan, and Denel Overberg Test Range for weapons and other testing. Another electro-optical capability being showcased at AAD was an optical height of burst weapons sensor, which is replacing radio frequency systems as optical systems cannot be jammed.

The ECM Technologies stand was divided into sections, including EOD/bomb disposal, optics/electro-optics, CBRN, and mobility. Regarding the latter, the company is the military distributor of Pirelli Tyres in South Africa as well as partner to runflat specialist RunFlat International. Many local OEMs use Pirelli tyres, such as OTT and DCD, as well as RunFlat systems, and this “is becoming quite a nice business for us,” Milburn said.

The final main component of ECM’s showcase was its CBRN offerings, including respirators, suits, protective gloves, decontamination products etc. A new addition to the lineup is a novel Smiths Detection portable lightweight chemical detector that not only detects gases but can sample non-volatile compounds to identify narcotics, explosives, and toxic chemicals. Milburn sees the CBRN pipeline looking robust as interest increases for these products.

ECM Technologies started in 1985 as a one-man business specialising in optical products. The company has grown over the last 39 years to become a leading supplier in the defence and law-enforcement markets. Although local defence and security budgets are tight, ECM Technologies is tendering for multiple contracts for Border Management Authority equipment, and supports the many local OEMs that rely on export business.

(Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

01 Oct 24. Hanwha Aerospace and its defense subsidiaries are set to unveil their cutting-edge Multi-Layer Defense Solution during the Korea Army International Defense Industry Exhibition 2024 (KADEX) to be held at the Gyeryongdae ROK military compound, South Chungcheong Province.

Team Hanwha will showcase its collective expertise with a focus on the debut of Hanwha Systems’ Multi-Function Radar (MFR) and long-range missile interception systems, developed in collaboration with Hanwha Aerospace. The MFR detects missile threats at various altitudes, while artillery interception radar systems further enhance defense capabilities.

In the “Anti-Drone Zone” visitors will experience Hanwha Aerospace’s laser air defense weapon and rail launcher system, both designed to neutralize drone threats below 10 kilometers. The Multi-Layer Defense Solution deploys defensive measures in multiple tiers to counter various air threats, including ballistic missiles and drones, addressing the growing global demand for advanced air defense technologies.

Another highlight is the ‘K9 Manned-Unmanned Teaming System’—a futuristic evolution of the renowned K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer. This advanced artillery system integrates unmanned and autonomous driving technologies, allowing for remote operation without a crew. Its firing range, extended to 80 kilometers, ensures enhanced battlefield performance and survivability.

Hanwha will also introduce a wheeled variant of the K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer, optimized for rapid deployment and air transport. This nimble, wheel-based version enhances operational flexibility and mobility in dynamic combat environments.

Additionally, Hanwha Aerospace will unveil the ‘Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher,’ a system designed for amphibious operations. This launcher, which can be mounted on landing or transport ships, provides powerful fire support with minimal manpower.

Visitors will also witness performance-enhanced versions of existing systems. The Arion-SMET unmanned vehicle has doubled its payload capacity through optimized design, and the Tigon-MCV armored vehicle now features the TAipers anti-tank missile, providing a potent upgrade to Hanwha’s established Tigon platform.

“Our goal is to continuously evolve our existing products while developing new, tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of our customers,” said Kim Dong-hyun, head of the Land Systems Business Group at Hanwha Aerospace.

Hanwha Systems will showcase its advanced tactical communication systems, including the ‘Tactical 5G System,’ capable of high-speed data transmission, and the ‘Low Earth Orbit Satellite Communication,’ which delivers ultra-high-speed, low-latency communication. The ‘MOSS (Modular Open Suite of Standards) Platform,’ an integrated command, control, and communication solution, will also be highlighted. Additionally, Hanwha will unveil its independently developed small SAR satellite, boasting 0.25m resolution, and two AESA radars designed for unmanned aircraft and multi-purpose surveillance.

Hanwha Ocean will present the KSS-III Batch-II submarine and the Ghost Commander unmanned command and control ship. The KSS-III Batch-II, a 3,000-ton class submarine, combines Hanwha Ocean’s Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system with Hanwha Aerospace’s lithium-ion batteries. The Ghost Commander is a cutting-edge vessel designed to operate a range of unmanned vehicles, from aerial drones to underwater craft, with minimal crew, advancing the future of naval warfare.

“In an era where unmanned systems are reshaping modern warfare, our multi-layered defense solution demonstrates Hanwha’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve,” said a Hanwha spokesperson.

As KADEX 2024 kicks off, Hanwha is poised to showcase its position at the forefront of defense technology innovation, offering solutions that are both cutting-edge and battle-ready for the challenges of tomorrow.

For more information about Hanwha’s advanced defense capabilities, visitors can explore the Hanwha stand B-651 at Gyeryongdae.

30 Sept 24. STM completes development of anti-tank warhead for Kargu loitering munition. Turkish company STM displayed a Kargu loitering munition fitted with a model of a new interchangeable anti-tank warhead at the Azerbaijan International Defence Exhibition (ADEX) held in Baku from 24 to 26 September.

An STM representative told Janes that the new warhead successfully completed testing in August, but was unable to provide details about its capabilities.

The Kargu was previously only available with a directional anti-personnel warhead that the company says weighs 1.4 kg and generates 840 pieces of fragmentation. It is an electrically powered quadcopter with a take-off weight of 7.6 kg with the standard day camera and 7.8 kg with a thermal camera.

STM announced on 30 September that it has also completed the integration of a radio frequency seeker warhead that enables the Kargu to detect and destroy radars and electronic warfare systems. (Source: Janes)

27 Sept 24. ADAS 2024: Hanwha unveils anti-ship missile for Chunmoo MRL. Hanwha Aerospace unveiled a new anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) for its K239 Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher (MRL) at the Asian Defenseand Security Exhibition (ADAS) 2024 in Manila, which concluded on 27 September.

The ASBM is in an early phase of development but will become the latest munition type capable of being launched from the K239, which is in service with the South Korean and Polish militaries. The K239 is already capable of firing a variety of 130 mm, 239 mm, and 600 mm munitions with product options including the CTM-080, CTM-MR, and CTM-290.

Speaking at ADAS 2024, a Hanwha Aerospace spokesperson told Janes the ASBM is in development but could be ready for deployment by 2027. The ASBM has been designed to support Philippine requirements, the spokesperson said, suggesting it could fulfil the Philippine Army’s need for a shore-based anti-ship strike capability.

The spokesperson also said the ASBM could be used by the Philippine Coast Guard for coastal defence purposes and promoted the K239’s ability to engage static and mobile targets as well as its capability to deploy within minutes.

Industry sources said any K239 procurement with the ASBM could fall within the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP’s) ‘Horizon 3′ modernisation phase, which is focused on an “archipelagic defense concept”, according to government documentation.

ASBM features include GPS, INS (inertial navigation system), and IIR (imaging infrared) guidance solutions. The munition, which has a maximum range of 160 km, is powered by a composite propellant and has a ‘hit rate’ of 80%, the spokesperson said.

However, the company was unable to elaborate on the ASBM’s specifications, particularly concerning payload capacity and warhead type. (Source: Janes)

26 Sept 24. Indra signs a framework contract to modernise the Spanish Army’s GBAD system to identify whether an air platform is a ‘Friend or Foe’. Indra has signed a framework agreement with the Spanish Ministry of Defence to endow the Spanish Army’s ground based air defence system, tasked with responding to any airborne threat, with state-of-the-art capabilities to identify whether an air platform is a friend or foe (IFF system), thus contributing to reinforcing the protection of the airspace, increasing the safety of allied aircraft and preventing friendly fire.

The project, awarded to Indra following an open bidding on the month of June with the industry’s main suppliers and recently signed, provides for the implementation of Mode 5/S IFF radar systems to facilitate enhanced positive identification of an air force’s own aircraft. The IFF is a secondary radar which sends an encrypted interrogation that only platforms aware of the codes can decrypt and respond to confirm that it is friendly.

Mode 5, deployed by NATO and its allies, has replaced the now obsolete mode 4 and is therefore vital for participation in joint missions. This mode is more difficult for the adversary to intercept, due to the form of the emitted signal and its encryption, which is performed by the cryptographic equipment integrated into the interrogator, whose codes are changed on a regular basis.

In addition to identifying whether the aircraft is a friend or enemy, the new mode 5 provides more information on the aircraft than traditional modes, enabling it not only to identify it accurately, but also to ascertain its position, identification number and callsign, among other data, through selective interrogations that avoid any unnecessary radio emissions and facilitate a stealthier and safer operation.

In the cases of high-mobility ground based air defence system and ones that require rapid deployment and redeployment capabilities, Indra will deliver a next-generation IFF model (I50D Interrogator) with a lightweight, compact design.

The company will integrate the new IFFs into the firing direction centres of the current light and medium-sized anti-aircraft artillery operations centres via their respective short and medium-range radars. It will also renew the intelligent terminals associated with the MISTRAL short-range missile launching positions while incorporating the new IFFs into the Skydor firing directions, the medium-range HAWK batteries and its operations centre.

IFF radar systems constitute one of the solutions forming part of the air defence ground system portfolio that Indra has identified as key to its business within the Leading the Future strategic plan. Indra has implemented these systems on all kinds of air, land and naval platforms for armies around the world. (Source: joint-forces.com)

27 Sept 24. UK to Build 20 Large One-Way Attack Drones per Month.

The UK Ministry of Defence has revealed plans for a new long-range strike weapon under the codename Project Brakestop, which aims to produce a minimum of 20 units per month.

According to a Prior Information Notice published on 25 September 2024, this one-way attack system will be capable of targeting enemy assets from over 500km away and operating in high-threat tactical environments.

The system, referred to in the notice as a One-Way Effector (OWE) Heavy, is designed to strike targets accurately while navigating through a GNSS-denied environment and withstanding electromagnetic warfare.

The concept behind the Brakestop project closely resembles Ukraine’s Palianytsia drone, an improvised wartime cruise missile. The project specifications clearly reflect combat-driven requirements, calling for the development of a cruise missile, ballistic missile, or drone capable of striking ground targets.

The Ministry of Defence has not confirmed whether this will be a missile, drone, or another form of delivery system, but the emphasis is placed on flexibility and adaptability.

“The User requires a cost-effective, long-range (500km) One Way Effector Heavy, capable of being safely ground launched from a mobile platform in a high-threat tactical environment,” states the notice.

According to the MoD’s outline, the system is expected to:

Deliver a 200-300kg payload (similar to the Mk 82 bomb) over a 600km range
Achieve speeds of around 600km/h
Be launched safely from a mobile platform in a high-threat environment, with reduced detection probability
Operate via either a ballistic trajectory or low-level cruise mode
Navigate in a GNSS-denied environment with targeted end-stage guidance.

The MoD places a strong emphasis on the system’s ability to survive in complex environments. The OWE Heavy must operate under conditions that involve electromagnetic environments, all while remaining resistant to EW attacks and spoofing. This ensures its effectiveness in modern warfare scenarios where such measures are increasingly prevalent.

The Ministry of Defence has laid out requirements for the system to be scalable in its production, capable of delivering at least 20 units per month, with the potential for further expansion if needed. “Manufacturing shall be scalable to meet requirements at a minimum of 20 units-per-month, with the ability to further increase,” the MoD specifies.

This scalability focuses on delivering results quickly, with the MoD prioritising efficient production over intricate design details, in order to meet the growing need for rapid deployment.

While the exact nature of the delivery system is not confirmed, the project allows for flexibility. Whether a missile, drone, or another technology, the system must operate efficiently under a range of conditions. “This can be done via (ballistic or low-level cruise) and could use a missile a drone or another technology to deliver effect,” the notice explains.

This flexibility extends to the system’s ability to launch from mobile platforms, providing an adaptable response to the modern battlefield’s changing needs.

As part of the development process, the Ministry of Defence will hold an industry day on 9 October 2024 in London. This event is designed to allow industry participants to showcase their potential solutions to different aspects of the project, including propulsion systems, navigation, targeting, and launcher systems.

Project Brakestop is operating on an ambitious timeline, aiming for a demonstration firing by Q3 2025 and potential serial production from Q4 2025.

“There is an aggressive timeline of a demonstration firing in Q2 2025 and, subject to contract, potential serial production from Q3 2025, producing a minimum around 20 platforms per month.” (Source: UAS VISION/ukdj)

30 Sept 24. Major order from Denmark: Rheinmetall to supply Skyranger 30 for mobile air defence. Rheinmetall has once again won a major order in the field of mobile air defence. The Kingdom of Denmark has contracted with Rheinmetall Air Defence to supply sixteen Skyranger 30 air defence turrets and additional vehicle equipment for an 8×8 wheeled platform for use by the Danish armed forces. The order is worth a figure in the low three-digit m euro range. In addition, the customer has ordered ammunition in the low double-digit m euro range. Deliveries of the serial turrets are scheduled for 2027 and 2028, while a prototype is expected to be delivered in late 2026.

Lieutenant General Per Pugholm Olsen, head of the Danish procurement agency FMI, stated: “The signing of this contract is an important step toward establishing the brigade’s air defence, which is an essential part of making the brigade fully operational. The selection of the Skyranger turret and its machine cannon was made in close cooperation with our colleagues at the Defence Command.”

Oliver Duerr, CEO Rheinmetall Electronic Solutions: “We are grateful that Denmark, another major NATO customer, now trusts our Skyranger 30. We are pleased to be able to integrate Skyranger into another vehicle platform. This demonstrates the modularity and adaptability of our system.”

The Skyranger 30 offers an optimal combination of mobility, protection, flexibility and precision to meet the growing demands of challenging threat scenarios at close and very close range. As a hybrid solution, its turret combines the powerful 30mm x 173 KCE revolver cannon, surface-to-air guided missiles and the necessary sensors on a single platform. The well-thought-out design of the various weapons, high dynamics and a large elevation range, as well as state-of-the-art sensors, enable both autonomous and networked operations. The system’s airburst ammunition with a programmable airburst point of detonation is particularly suitable for countering drones.

The order that has now been placed once again underscores Rheinmetall’s role as a world market leader in cannon-based air defence. At the same time, it continues the success of the Skyranger 30. The Republic of Austria has placed an order for the procurement of 36 Skyranger 30 systems as the first customer. Other NATO and EU member states are also planning to procure the system or have already initiated the process.

In December 2023, Hungary commissioned Rheinmetall to carry out the conceptual development of the Skyranger 30 turret for the future anti-aircraft variant of the Lynx KF41 tracked vehicle. As recently as January 2024, Rheinmetall and a number of industrial partners were awarded a contract to develop the Close and Very Short Range Air Defence System (Nah- und Naechstbereichsschutzsystem, NNbS) for the Bundeswehr, in which the Skyranger 30 will be integrated as an important component in the future. In February 2024, the Bundeswehr placed a further order for the Skyranger 30 mobile air defence system. The prototype is to be delivered as early as the end of 2024, and 18 series-produced vehicles have also already been ordered.

30 Sept 24. War in Ukraine and Middle East reignites focus on Ground-Based Air Defence systems. The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East have thrust Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) systems back into the global spotlight. These defensive shields are proving crucial in countering the growing threat posed by drones, cruise missiles, and other airborne weapons. GBAD systems are systems that are designed to protect the ground forces and assets from aerial threats such as manned aircraft, drones, and missiles. The landscape of GBAD systems is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements, emerging threats, and geopolitical shifts. GBAD systems are increasingly being integrated into Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C2I) networks, enabling real-time data sharing, coordinated engagement, and improved situational awareness across different defence assets. Data from multiple sensors like radars, electro-optical trackers, and acoustic locators are being fused to provide a more comprehensive picture of the airspace and enhance target identification and tracking.

There is a growing demand for GBAD systems that can counter the emerging and diverse threats posed by drones, especially in urban and asymmetric warfare scenarios. Developments in rocket propulsion, guidance systems, and warheads are leading to more effective and versatile missiles for GBAD systems.

To understand the evolving landscape of GBAD technology and market trends, Amsterdam-based Market Forecast has released its latest in-depth study: “Ground Based Air Defence Systems – Market and Technology Forecast to 2032.” This comprehensive report offers a detailed examination of the Impact of Recent Conflicts, Missile Technology Evolution, Market Outlay Predictions, and a geographical market analysis. The US, with its substantial defence budget, prioritizes cutting-edge technologies and a comprehensive approach to air defence. In contrast, European nations emphasize interoperability, affordability, and collaboration through joint programs and standardized systems.

The GBAD market is poised for significant growth in the coming years. By understanding the evolving trends and capitalizing on the identified opportunities, companies can develop and deliver next-generation GBAD solutions that meet the increasingly complex air defence challenges of the future.

30 Sept 24. UK calls for new long-range effector under ‘Project Brakestop.’ The forthcoming industrial competition will provide the UK with a one-way effector to be launched from a mobile ground-based platform.

The photograph shows Wing Commander Dave Robertson, right, and Squadron Leader Andy Myers prior to their departure on a Tornado GR4 night mission over Iraq armed with the RAF’s stand-off precision-guided missile, Storm Shadow. While this is a long-range air-launched missile, the UK Ministry of Defence has now issued specifications for another future long-range capability for ground-based mobile platforms. Credit: Crown copyright/Corporal Craig Fryer RAF Combat Camera via MBDA.

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) issued a notice to industry on 25 September 2024 outlining specifications for a new long-range weapon system.

Known as Project Brakestop, the forthcoming industrial competition will provide the British Armed Forces with a one-way effector to be launched from a mobile ground-based platform.

The target cost per unit must be no higher than £400,000, excluding VAT and the launcher system. Subject to potential future contract, manufacturing shall be scalable to meet operational requirements at a minimum of 20 units per month, with the ability to scale up.

MoD requirements

The new effector is anticipated to reach a range greater than 500km. This exceeds the Anglo-French air-launched Storm Shadow cruise missile, which travels up to 250km; the American-made Harpoon anti-ship cruise missile, at 240km; and the local air defence CAMM missile, at 25km—all of which feature in the British arsenal.

The MoD request that the weapon be resilient in harsh physical environments, day and night. The effector must have a low multispectral signature, be resilient in a complex electromagnetic environment, including within a GNSS-denied and degraded environment, and be resistant against targeted electronic warfare attacks and spoofing.

Furthermore, the weapon will weigh between 200 and 300kg (class payload mark 82 for reference) and travel 600km per hour.

The concept can operate at any trajectory (ballistic or low-level cruise) and could use a missile, a drone, or another technology to deliver the effect, day or night, following a pre-programmed route.

If low level cruise, it must be able to navigate in a GNSS denied environment and have some form of end stage guidance as required, to an accuracy of CEP (0.5) of 30 metres.

Sovereignty is key

Learning from Ukraine, the British government emphasised that the design of its new effector must be free from external government trade and usage restrictions.

In the past month, Ukraine has repeatedly called on the US to approve the use of long-range weapons against targets inside Russia. It is important to eliminate such targets – acting as airbases and launching sites – as they enable invading Russian forces to wage a destructive campaign against Ukraine’s civil and military infrastructure.

Just yesterday (29 September), a Russian salvo “hit ordinary residential buildings, ordinary city facilities,” confirmed Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

American components power the weapon systems in Ukrainian hands, so their unrestricted use hinges on US approval. Nevertheless, this has not stopped other Western backers, such as Britain, France, and Italy, from offering their approval for the use of their long-range weapons inside Russia.

In response to this ongoing debate, the Ukrainian industry is said to have developed an indigenous long-range weapon system that meets several of the British requirements for Project Brakestop, including a range of up to 600km. This domestically produced missile-drone hybrid is known as the ‘Palianytsia’. In early September, Lithuania announced that it would invest €10m in Ukraine’s long-range weapon. (Source: army-technology.com)

25 Sept 24. Future opportunity 712835450 – Project Brakestop

Ministry of Defence

F16: Prior information notice for contracts in the field of defence and security

Notice reference: 2024/S 000-030651

Published 25 September 2024, 4:11pm

Watch this notice

Contents

one. Contracting authority/entityI. Contracting authority/entityPress escape key to exit

two. Object of the contractII. Object of the contract

six. Complementary informationVI. Complementary information

Section one: Contracting authority/entitySection I: Contracting authority/entity

one.1) Name, addresses and contact point(s)I.1) Name, addresses and contact point(s)

Ministry of Defence

MOD Abbey Wood South, 1261, Spruce 2B

Bristol

BS34 8JH

For the attention of

DE&S

Email(s)

Country

United Kingdom

Further information

Further information can be obtained from the above mentioned contact point(s)

Section two: Object

Section II: Object

two.1) Title attributed to the contract by the contracting authority/entity:II.1) Title attributed to the contract by the contracting authority/entity:

712835450 – Project Brakestop

two.2) Type of contract and location of works, place of delivery or of performanceII.2) Type of contract and location of works, place of delivery or of performance

Services

Service category No 3: Defence services, military defence services and civil defence services

NUTS code

UK – United Kingdom

two.4) Short description of nature and scope of works or nature and quantity or value of supplies or servicesII.4) Short description of nature and scope of works or nature and quantity or value of supplies or services

This Prior Information Notice serves to inform industry about the upcoming competition for Project Brakestop. Please see the single statement of user need (SSUN) below and further details around the project including an industry day.

SSUN:

“The User requires a cost-effective, long range (>500km) One Way Effector (OWE) Heavy, capable of being safely ground launched from a mobile platform in a high threat tactical environment, navigating to and accurately striking a user-programmed target.

It shall be: operable in harsh physical environments, day and night, of low multispectral signature, resilient in a complex Electromagnetic environment (EME), including within a GNSS denied & degraded environment, and resistant against targeted EW attack and spoofing.

Subject to potential future contract, manufacturing shall be scalable to meet operational requirements at a minimum of 20 units per month, with the ability to further increase.”

Overview:

UK MOD requires the ability to deliver an 200kg – 300kg class payload (Mk 82 for reference) over a target range of 600km at a speed of around 600km/h. This must be capable of being safely ground launched from a mobile platform in a high threat tactical environment, with reduced probability of detection / high survivability with minimal take-off distance. It should be mobile via vehicle, fitted to or towed by.

This can be done via any trajectory (ballistic or low-level cruise) and could use a missile, a drone, or another technology to deliver the effect, at day or night, following a pre-programmed route. If low level cruise, it must be able to navigate in a GNSS denied environment and have some form of end stage guidance as required, to an accuracy of CEP (0.5) of 30m.

The target cost per delivery platform must be no higher than £400,000 Ex VAT and excludes the launcher system and any GFX as listed below. This requirement is for technologies that can be packaged and demonstrated rapidly, including firing in a test range. The design should be free from external government trade and usage restrictions. The design must have the ability to be spirally developed, to improve performance characteristics.

Whilst a complete solution is being sought, if you are offering part of the solution, we encourage you to participate in the industry day and to explicitly state which part of the problem you are answering within the categories of:

Propulsion system, e.g. engine,
Airframe,
Navigation and targeting,
Ability to scale,
Launcher system.

The project will be prioritising scalability over exquisite solutions.

The following will likely be government furnished (GFX):

Payload
Fuses
Testing ranges/facilities
Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) support for scaling
DSTL advice

Procurement Approach and timelines:

FCI will down select from submitted proposals using the proven 3-2-1 procurement model and invite a number of companies to a face-to-face presentation where a further down selection will be made to a small number of companies (2-5) and, subject to contract, will provide up to £5m of funding for the rapid development of those proposals. Those companies will be required to rapidly demonstrate their systems.

The aim is to deliver this product at pace, which means there is an aggressive timeline of a demonstration firing in Q2 2025 and, subject to contract, potential serial production from Q3 2025, producing a minimum around 20 platforms per month.

Industry day information:

The Authority will be holding a Project Brakestop industry day on Tuesday 8th October 2024 in London UK.

Please use the following link for further detail and to submit a request form to attend the industry day:

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=7WB3vlNZS0iuldChbfoJ5XUTJJOnMC1Guv5Ej0GV_QpUOE9GWDdSMTFOT1hLVFJEQUhYMERTQVRENyQlQCN0PWcu

Please note that responses must be submitted by 15:00 (GMT+1) 2nd October 2024

Due to capacity limitations, this industry day is limited to 2 personnel from each company. In the event of the location’s capacity being exceeded, the Authority will reduce down to 1 person from each company.

two.5) Common procurement vocabulary (CPV)II.5) Common procurement vocabulary (CPV)

73410000 – Military research and technology

Additional CPV code(s)

35613100 – Unmanned combat aerial vehicles
35623100 – Air/ground/sea launched cruise missiles

two.7) Additional informationII.7) Additional information

Industry day information:

The Authority will be holding a Project Brakestop industry day on Tuesday 8th October 2024 in London UK.

Please use the following link for further detail and to submit a request form to attend the industry day:

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=7WB3vlNZS0iuldChbfoJ5XUTJJOnMC1Guv5Ej0GV_QpUOE9GWDdSMTFOT1hLVFJEQUhYMERTQVRENyQlQCN0PWcu

Please note that responses must be submitted by 15:00 (GMT+1) 2nd October 2024

Section six: Complementary information

Section VI: Complementary information

six.2) Additional informationVI.2) Additional information

Conditions regarding this PIN:

1) This PIN is not a call for competition and is not published to reduce time limits for the receipt of tenders;

2) The Authority reserves the right not to commence any procurement or award any contract in respect of this opportunity;

3) The information contained in this PIN may be subject to change due to the impact of governance, assurance, regulatory changes and/or the pre-market engagement outcomes. Insofar as is permitted by law, the Authority shall not be liable for any losses incurred by any party as a result of reliance on the information contained/linked herein;

4) Failure to register an interest in connection with this PIN shall not prevent an organisation from participating in any formal call for competition.

six.3) Information on general regulatory frameworkVI.3) Information on general regulatory framework

Relevant governmental Internet sites where information can be obtained

Tax legislation

DE&S

MOD Abbey Wood South, 1261, Spruce 2B

Bristol

BS34 8JH

Email(s)

Country

United Kingdom

(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-

About Galvion:

MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

September 27, 2024 by

Sponsored by Galvion

www.galvion.com

26 Sept 24. Pentagon makes early pick for hypersonic interceptor developer. The Missile Defense Agency has chosen Northrop Grumman to design an interceptor capable of defeating hypersonic weapons in the glide phase of flight, the agency announced Wednesday.

MDA director Lt. Gen. Heath Collins revealed earlier this summer that the agency would soon choose between Raytheon and Northrop who were competing to design the Glide Phase Interceptor, or GPI.

Lockheed Martin was one of three original companies picked to work on design concepts for GPI in November 2021 but by June 2022, MDA had chosen to proceed with only Northrop and Raytheon.

MDA made the decision in favor of Northrop together with the Japanese government, which is signed on to co-develop the capability.

The company’s win comes after it recently lost another big MDA competition to develop the Next-Generation Interceptor that will replace interceptors that make up the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense System. That system is designed to defend the continental U.S. from intercontinental ballistic missile threats from North Korea and Iran. Lockheed Martin was chosen earlier this year in another early downselect.

The decision to move to just a single vendor prior to reaching preliminary design review is out of the ordinary, but Collins told Defense News last month that MDA, like the rest of the Defense Department, had “to make really tough prioritization and resource-informed decisions. … We were no exception, so we had to take a look at how we balance and make decisions on the capability we bring.”

MDA will “have to assess the risk of that design, any corrective actions … or mitigation activities we want to take,” Collins said, discussing next steps after MDA chooses a single vendor. “And then we would re-baseline the program based on that with an updated, independent cost estimate.”

Northrop Grumman said in a statement that during the next phase of GPI development, it will continue to refine its preliminary design intended to fire from the U.S. Navy’s Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense destroyers and Aegis Ashore using the standard Vertical Launch System.

The company will move quickly by using digital engineering. It plans to demonstrate system performance in hypersonic environments before the preliminary design review and complete flight experiments early, according to the statement.

“Today’s decision represents a turning point for hypersonic glide phase defense,” Collins, the MDA director, said in the statement.

While the U.S. has some capability to track and counter hypersonic threats regionally in the terminal phase, the ability to defeat hypersonic missile threats during the glide phase of flight is difficult because of the nature of a hypersonic missile’s ability to maneuver in unpredictable ways at high speeds.

But while GPI is a necessary capability, fielding is not planned until the 2035 timeframe. Tom Karako, a defense analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, noted that “something else is going to be needed in the meantime — a future terminal interceptor of some kind.”

Congress wants MDA to move more quickly. Lawmakers mandated in the FY24 National Defense Authorization Act that the agency reach full operational capability by the end of 2032 and provide no fewer than 12 GPIs for tests by the end of 2029. (Source: Defense News)

27 Sept 24. CT40 gains NATO Type Approval, it’s been a long time coming and cost a lot! CTAI told BATTLESPACE at DVD that the company has received NATO Type Approval for its range of CT40 Case telescoped ammunition. This will enable the company to licence production to other manufacturers outside BAE Systems. The company also told BATTLESPACE that approval has been gained for its airburst round which is crucial for infantry support and C-UAS roles. However the cost of a round, believed to be a minimum of £1000 for a Training Round remains a blocker for exports.

26 Sep 24. ADEX 2024: CSG upgrading Azerbaijani Shilka SPAAGs. The Czechoslovak Group (CSG) is in the process of upgrading 23 of Azerbaijan’s ZSU-23-4 Shilka self-propelled anti-aircraft guns (SPAAGs) in collaboration with local company Sumgait Technologies Park (STP), a CSG representative told Janes at the Azerbaijan International Defence Exhibition 2024 (ADEX 2024) held in Baku from 24 to 26 September.

One of the upgraded Shilkas was displayed at the show fitted with a new rotating radar that CSG says can detect targets with a 1 m 2 radar cross-section at 20 km, a 0.1 m 2 cross-section at 10 km, and a 0.01 m 2 cross-section at 7 km. The radar can simultaneously track up to 100 targets at ranges of up to 15 km for ones with a 1 m 2 cross-section, 7 km for 0.1 m 2 , and up to 4 km for 0.01 m 2 . A new digital fire-control system is being installed to calculate the deflection needed to hit the targets.

The upgrade also includes the Elbit Systems COAPS-L electro-optical system, which is used to verify targets, and Elbit’s VRC-950 radio. Three antennas for forward-facing directional radio frequency jamming have been fitted on the left side of the Shilka’s turret, with an omni-directional jammer antenna positioned behind them.

The gas turbine engine that was originally used to power the Shilka’s turret is being replaced with a Lombardini LDW1404 liquid-cooled diesel engine, and all the SPAAG’s other machinery is being refurbished.

A surface-to-air missile from a manportable air-defence system (MANPADS) will be integrated with the modernised Shilka, with the product poster identifying it as the Verba, the latest Russian MANPADS. However, the CSG representative told Janes

(Source: Janes)

25 Sep 24. The U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) will proceed with Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) for the Glide Phase Interceptor (GPI) program, the first-of-its-kind defensive countermeasure against hypersonic missile threats. Working in close partnership with MDA, the three-year developmental effort produced a purpose-built, innovative design capable of defeating existing and emerging hypersonic threats.

During this next phase of development, Northrop Grumman will:

Continue to refine the preliminary design of the GPI, which will fire from the U.S. Navy’s Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense destroyers and Aegis Ashore using the standard Vertical Launch System
Demonstrate system performance in hypersonic environments prior to conducting its Preliminary Design Review
Complete flight experiments ahead of schedule leveraging the company’s own flight-proven systems
Use digital engineering practices to connect the entire GPI program to accelerate design processes and develop interceptor capabilities faster and more efficiently

Expert: Wendy Williams, vice president and general manager, launch and missile defense systems, Northrop Grumman: “GPI adds mission critical standoff to warfighters in scenarios where distance creates an advantage. Tailorable to a multitude of mission requirements, Northrop Grumman’s revolutionary solution is designed to perform in the evolving threat landscape.”

Details: Northrop Grumman’s design includes advanced technologies, such as a seeker for threat tracking and hit-to-kill accuracy, a re-ignitable upper stage engine used for threat containment and a dual engagement mode to engage threats across a wide range of altitudes.

Northrop Grumman will work closely with the United States in support of its role under the GPI Cooperative Development program with the Japan Ministry of Defense to deliver interceptors to the MDA.

24 Sep 24. European navies chase the white whale of torpedo-busting torpedoes. The technology promises to be a game changer: a torpedo-seeking torpedo fired by surface vessels for head-on intercepts, missile-defense style.

Yet after more than a decade of research, lead nations Germany and the Netherlands are still years away from fitting their navies with a hard-kill torpedo countermeasure.

Germany’s navy has been toying with a product called SeaSpider, developed by Atlas Elektronik, for several years. Work on the sole technology option under consideration in Europe goes back even further, with engineers studying it for at least 15 years, according to the firm’s website.

But while Atlas has tried to market the system as ready for combat, no navy has yet taken the bait, and the Dutch Ministry of Defence has repeatedly pushed back the start of a formal purchasing program based on SeaSpider.

The German sea service did tests some years ago, but decided against adopting the system. And the Canadian navy, deemed a prospective SeaSpider launch customer due to the timing of its large-scale surface combatant program, made no mention of the capability in its initial lineup of technologies for the future fleet.

A spokesman for Atlas’ parent company, Thyssen Krupp Marine Systems, declined to discuss SeaSpider, pointing to previous requests by the German navy to keep details under wraps. A spokeswoman for the German Ministry of Defense said the technology’s classification and contractual status prohibit the disclosure of details.

Still, officials in Berlin believe that a capability to intercept torpedoes with torpedoes is a critical force-protection technology in principle, the spokeswoman told Defense News.

Torpedoes have historically been one of the main threats to surface vessels, with the weapon involved in more than half of sinkings of U.S. Navy ships during World War II, according to U.S. Coast Guard data cited by Dutch researchers at TNO, a government-linked research organization.

Defense against torpedoes remains essentially a losing proposition, according to experts, leaving surface ships relatively vulnerable once such a weapon is headed their way. The main defensive measures consist of maneuvering, or launching decoys to confuse incoming torpedoes. Yet the latter is ineffective against so-called wake-homing variants, which align their travel path to hit ships in a straight line from behind, their sonar signature buried in the acoustic noise of a ship’s own propulsion system.

The U.S. Navy experimented with an anti-torpedo interceptor installed on three of its aircraft carriers in 2017, before uninstalling the system in 2018, saying that while the hard-kill measure showed “some capability to defeat an incoming torpedo,” reliability was uncertain and lethality of the system was untested.

SeaSpider can intercept all types of torpedoes, combining data from sensors installed on the carrier ship and the interceptor torpedo to compute collision paths with the inbound weapon, the manufacturer promises on its website.

The package has been in play again since last year for further development under the auspices of a European Union program, led by Germany and the Netherlands, labeled simply “Anti-torpedo Torpedo,” or ATT.

A one-sentence description for the project on an EU website describes a desire for “bringing a developed anti-torpedo torpedo demonstrator to the production-ready design, with a qualified effector and a proven functional chain,” an apparent reference to the Atlas product that only the Dutch Ministry of Defence would confirm to Defense News.

A spokesperson there said the SeaSpider technology is still too immature to warrant setting up a formal program, though Dutch defense officials have planned to take such a step, which requires parliamentary notification, since 2022. If it all comes to pass, perhaps in 2025, budget analysts have slotted a torpedo-killing torpedo capability into a category of programs consuming anywhere between €250 m and €1 bn, according to the Dutch MOD.

That is in addition to a related effort, led by TNO and estimated at €50m to €100m, to sharpen the technology for torpedo detection that would go into an eventual anti-torpedo torpedo suite, a spokesperson told Defense News.

Notably, the German MOD declined to disclose even the industry team of Atlas and TNO as lead companies of the European Union program, set up under the bloc’s defense-cooperation push known as PESCO. A spokeswoman in Berlin said no contracts had been signed in the matter.

Also unanswered were questions about the shortcomings that the German navy sees in SeaSpider. Defense News has learned that the depth of the envisioned intercept sequence is at issue, with the Atlas system currently limited to hits around the water surface.

In the end, the timing of a European anti-torpedo torpedo program could line up with Dutch Navy plans for new anti-submarine warfare frigates, the first of which is expected to become operational in 2029. That is because German officials expect the PESCO program to yield a production-ready system that passes all regulatory requirements by the end of the decade, with a prototype built in 2028. In the meantime, other European nations also have taken an interest, including Sweden, Poland, Portugal, Italy and Spain, according to issue experts.

24 Sept 24. Saab announces new munitions facility in Grayling, Michigan.

By partnering with the state of Michigan and the local community, Saab will create high-quality jobs, increase domestic manufacturing and strengthen U.S. national defense.

Saab is moving quickly to increase U.S. munitions production capacity and meet the urgent needs of our customers, building on our decades-long relationship with the U.S. military. Once open, the facility will be used for final assembly and integration of shoulder-fired munitions and precision fire systems. Groundbreaking will take place in Q4 2024, with initial manufacturing starting in early 2026.

“Given current global security challenges, it is critical the United States strengthens its national defense capacity. Saab is proud to partner with the state of Michigan and the local community to establish a world-class facility that, with our range of products, will increase and modernize the domestic production of munition systems,” said Erik Smith, President and CEO of Saab in the U.S. “We are making a long-term commitment not only to the U.S. defense industrial base, but to the local community as well. Saab plays a positive role in the communities where we live and work, creating jobs and investing in the local community, and we look forward to joining the Grayling community.”

“Saab’s transformative investment in Grayling will create 70 jobs and contribute to Michigan’s proud legacy and leadership in the defense industry,” said Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “We will continue pursuing our comprehensive economic development strategy to secure projects, invest in people, and uplift places across Michigan. With Saab’s decision to ‘Make It in Michigan,’ we are building on our economic momentum and strong reputation as a leader in advanced manufacturing. We built the arsenal of democracy to win WWII and will keep rolling up our sleeves to protect our national defense. Let’s get it done.”

The facility in Grayling will mark the 10th facility in the United States for Saab, Inc. Our other facilities include advanced manufacturing within aerospace in West Lafayette, Indiana, radar and sensor systems in Syracuse, New York, training and simulation in Orlando, Florida, autonomous and undersea systems in Cranston, Rhode Island and Quincy, Massachusetts and most recently a new operationally focused incubator in San Diego, California.

20 Sep 24. German industry confirms delivery of naval laser weapon by 2030. Confident in their skills in the laser weapon sector, the two suppliers concluded a corresponding cooperation agreement. Since then, Rheinmetall has revealed that the system will be on the market by the end of the decade.

Two German armament manufacturers, MBDA Deutschland and Rheinmetall, through a collaborative working group called ARGE, will bring their joint naval product, a High-Energy Laser (HEL) weapon system, to market in the next five to ten years.

Confident in their respective skills in the field of laser technology, both companies have concluded a corresponding cooperation agreement to develop a military HEL weapon.

This announcement comes after the system’s 15-month trial onboard the German Navy frigate, FGS Sachsen (F219), between June 2022 and September 2023.

A month after the successful test, in which the demonstrator was fired more than 100 times, Naval Technology was invited to MBDA Deutschland, where the company discussed its plans to deploy the weapon in the coming years.

What does the HEL weapon do?

HEL systems engage targets at the speed of light, with very low optical detectability, while operating with the highest possible precision and minimal collateral damage.

Crucially, the low cost per engagement will certainly balance the net cost of conventional missile systems throughout their lifecycle – accounting for supplementary equipment and projectiles.

This is significant given the rate at which missiles and projectiles are being spent by the two sides amid the two-and-a-half-year Russian invasion of Ukraine. The rate is high enough for Russian forces to resort to using more sophisticated weaponry, such as the Kh-101 missile – a supposedly ‘hypersonic’ missile that is, in actuality, an air-launched ballistic missile.

Deploying the HEL weapon

Although the technology is ready, the German Armed Forces require a smaller, integrated and modular system as opposed to the 20-foot, six-and-a-half tonne container unit that the German Navy deployed on the Sachsen frigate last year.

Likewise, Germany wants a HEL system that is more powerful than the current demonstrator, along with the ability to engage more difficult targets such as drone swarms.

Currently, the demonstrator’s beam operates at 50-100kw, which requires a three-to-five-second engagement time to destroy a target.

During the October 2023 update, Doris Laarmann, head of laser business development, MBDA Deutschland, suggested the company expects to fulfill these additional developments by 2027+. Though, now, after Rheinmetall’s announcement on 20 September 2024, this will be sometime between 2029-30. (Source: naval-technology.com)

11 Sept 24. New DFNDR body armour makes Land Forces debut. Australian Defence Apparel has unveiled new DFNDR body armour and load carriage systems at Land Forces Expo 2024.

The new brand of protective solutions for Defence personnel will be launched at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 11 to 13 September.

The new systems are designed to be highly adaptable and customisable, making them suitable for a wide range of users, missions, and environments, according to the company.

With a strong emphasis on human factors engineering and informed by data-driven insights on soldier systems, the DFNDR series provides soldiers the ability to easily adjust their wearables to meet the unique demands of any situation.

DFNDR systems provide unparalleled flexibility with seamless transition from a lightweight plate carrier to a fully up-armoured tactical system without requiring soldiers to carry excessive or complex equipment, minimising cognitive burden.

“DFNDR represents a significant leap forward in tactical gear design,” said Chris Dixon, CEO of Australian Defence Apparel (ADA).

“We’ve combined over a century of battlefield experience with cutting-edge materials, rigorous testing, and data-driven intelligence to create a system that empowers soldiers to perform at their best in any environment.”

DFNDR is the result of ADA’s unwavering commitment to innovation and soldier-centric design. By pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in tactical gear, ADA equips the modern soldier with the tools they need to face the challenges of the 21st-century battlefield.

(Source: Defence Connect)

02 Sept 24. EF88 commercial variant could bump up civilian familiarity, says industry expert. The creation of commercially available variant of the Australian Defence Force’s enhanced F88 Austeyr rifle could assist defence recruiting and national civilian training, according to Australian defence and security consultant Malcolm Catchpole.

The Australian-made Enhanced F88 service rifles are used extensively by the Australian Defence Force and produced by Thales Australia. The EF88 is a modified version of the original Austrian Steyr AUG.

“In the short term, it appears the Australian Defence Force will continue to use the EF88 in all its various forms,” Catchpole, a Queensland Police Minister’s Firearms Advisory committee member, said.

“That being the case, Australia has a long tradition of making versions of its service rifle available for licensed and regulated civilian use.

“The thinking being that it was in the national interest to have a pool of citizens with basic skill-at-arms with the in-service system.

“When the Martini-Henry rifle was in service, there was a Martini Cadet version. When the .303 SMLE (short magazine Lee–Enfield) was in service, there were Morris Tube sub-calibre training system. There was even a single shot target rifle version of the SLR (Australian L1A1 rifle) developed.

“Thales needs to make a single shot version of the EF88 and release it on the civilian market. There are independent Australian firearms manufacturers making these kinds of single shot systems now. There is an addressable market.”

A commercial variant of the EF88 rifle could still use a .223 calibre munition which is commonly available to members of the public but would likely need to be modified into a legal single-shot, straight-pull or push-button variant that adheres to a minimum overall length of 80cm (current ADF length 80.2cm) and likely maximum civilian magazine capacity of 10 rounds (as opposed to the current ADF capacity of 30 rounds). (Source: Defence Connect)

About Galvion:

MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

September 20, 2024 by

Sponsored by Galvion

www.galvion.com

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20 Sept. 24. Rheinmetall and MBDA Deutschland have decided to continue their successful cooperation in the field of laser weapons.

The aim is to bring a joint maritime product to the market within the next five to six years, which opens up new possibilities, particularly in relation to drone defence on ships. Both companies are convinced that their complementary skills in the field of laser weapon technology will enable them to successfully develop a military laser weapon system. The companies have now concluded a corresponding cooperation agreement.

Most recently, a laser weapon demonstrator from Rheinmetall and MBDA Germany was integrated on the German Navy’s frigate 124 “Sachsen” from June 2022 to September 2023. During this on-board trial, the demonstrator performed impressively in more than 100 test shots.

17 Sept 24. Hitting the mark: DASA builds dynamic partnerships to spearhead cooperative missile development. How DASA teamed up with defence primes, Government and industry innovators to develop novel missiles that can talk to each other

Smarter, cooperative missile technology holds huge potential for defence, offering an enhanced capability beyond that of single missiles. Cooperative missiles are designed to communicate with one another, share situational awareness, and coordinate their actions to work together within operator-set constraints to achieve a common objective during an engagement.

The ability to improve missile flexibility and responsiveness, allowing them to react to emerging threats and adapt to changing situations, is a challenge that the defence sector is determined to solve.

To address this, the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) launched the themed competition “It’s good for missiles to talk,” in 2022, on behalf of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl). Funding was provided by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and forms part of the Cooperative Missile Project. This initial phase funded 10 innovations aimed at providing valuable insights into how cooperative missiles could work.

Building on the success of Phase 1, DASA took the competition to the next level the following year launching Phase 2 in 2023, which focused on building dynamic partnerships with defence Primes, government customers, and industry. This new phase also aimed to deepen the MODs understanding of cooperative missile technology and explore its practical applications, and exploitation routes, pushing the boundaries of missile capabilities.

Collaborate to innovate: bringing UK primes on board

On the outset of the competition, DASA aimed to foster collaboration among all stakeholders, ensuring the best outcomes. Securing buy-in from major UK Defence Primes, Thales and MBDA, was crucial to this goal. Their missile technology expertise would not only aid in the development of the competition document but would also provide help to MOD technical assessors in evaluating innovations, ensuring feasibility and exploitability. This marked the first ever DASA competition with direct support from UK defence primes, highlighting the importance of industry partnership in advancing national defence capabilities.

Another essential aspect of the collaborative approach to the competition was the establishment of strong synergies between Dstl and Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S). In defence, it’s common for innovation organisations to work on similar technologies and research. Here, DASA aimed to pinpoint synergies within their respective scopes of work. This would help outline the competition requirements, set clear and measurable objectives, and disentangle interdependencies among challenge areas. The final outcome was a competition document that emphasised shared and achievable goals for all stakeholders.

During the course of the competition, DASA helped maintain these cross-functional relationships, pinpoint key individuals to harness collective wisdom, established goals responsibilities, and organised weekly team meetings to promote mutual support and ensure a unified approach in decision-making.

Outcomes: scanning the horizons for novel missile technologies

By securing willingness from Thales and MBDA to collaborate with the MOD Technical Partners, and establishing synergies between Dstl and DE&S, the competition produced six innovative funded technologies with a total investment of £1.4m. The collaboration with industry partners and government significantly improved the potential for outcomes, accelerating the exploitation process.

The funded technologies were from a mix of universities, large organisations and SMEs.

Bornea Dynamics

A technique to deploy neural networks and other advanced processing/communication algorithms.

Swansea University

An innovation for improving antenna capabilities, particularly in terms of bandwidth coverage and beam steering.

University of Birmingham

A solution for horizon path planning for a network of cooperative missiles.

Origami Labs UK Ltd.

A collaborative sensing technology to help provide an adaptive, dynamic planning capability for missiles.

University of Liverpool

Automated routing information for missiles in-flight that allows them to maximise use of terrain screening for survivability.

General Dynamics UK Ltd

A capability for missiles to propose new engagement plans while the missiles are in flight.

Proactively partnering with Defence customers to improve capability pull-through

Here is what several stakeholders had to say about It’s good for Missiles to Talk: Phase 2.

Dr Colm Kelly – Senior Hardware Solution Architect, Thales

Collaborating with other UK primes, government bodies and various competitors as part of It’s Good for Missiles to Talk: Phase 2 has yielded interesting conversations from fresh perspectives. Supporting DASA and MOD throughout the process of crafting the competition, down selection and then collaboration with the competitors gives me greater insight into the expectations that MOD have for not just the Thales portfolio of systems but beyond. Engaging with new people has stimulated plenty of what if, and why questions – it is also good for people to talk!

Ian Fairclough, Head of Critical Technologies, MBDA

As the UK MOD’s sovereign partner on complex weapons, MBDA’s involvement in the competition phase has allowed us to highlight technologies that could fill emerging gaps, and that will complement technologies being matured through other frameworks and MBDA’s own innovation programmes. It has introduced us to new suppliers looking for support to adapt their technologies into an unfamiliar domain. By working together as Industry Primes with the DASA, DSTL and DE&S teams, we have been able to share viewpoints that should guide more of these DASA projects towards developments that we can incorporate into the UK Complex Weapon Portfolio – a win-win.

Charlie Maslen, Chief Future Technologies, Dstl

The DASA community is a great forum to seek innovate solutions and we looked to them to address key challenges in the development of Cooperative Missiles. Involving the missile primes was important to us as it helps MOD ensure the successful exploitation of emerging technologies from supplier teams. DASA’s facilitation and organisation throughout the completion has been excellent.

Simon Zavad, Programme Manager – Future Kinetic Effects and Weapon Systems, Dstl

This competition was ground-breaking in its co-operation between DASA, Dstl, DE&S and strategic suppliers Thales and MBDA, who took part in the assessment of bids, providing a clear route to exploitation. For me this demonstrates best practice in breaking down organisational boundaries and delivering innovation through to capability on behalf of the MOD.

James Holder, Engineering Manager, DE&S

“Working as a joint Dstl and DE&S team on the It’s Good for Missiles to Talk Phase 2 competition has been hugely successful and has allowed us to collaborate with a number of small innovators who we wouldn’t have known about otherwise. The variety of proposals we received was really impressive and will help to support our respective technology development objectives, and the level of support we received from the DASA team throughout the process was fantastic.”

Learn more about the competition here: It’s Good for Missiles to Talk: Phase 2: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/competition-its-good-for-missiles-to-talk-phase-2

(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

17 Sept 24. Elbit Systems UK (ESUK) has successfully completed the Critical Design Review (CDR) on the Dismounted Joint Fires Integrator (D-JFI) programme which will provide an Integrated Target Acquisition Solution for all branches of the British Armed Forces. The system enhances soldiers’ ability to find and identify targets and provides the crucial targeting information necessary to fire more quickly and accurately. It will be used by Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACS) and Fire Support Teams (FST), and the completion of the CDR is an important step to getting the system in the hands of service personnel.

The D-JFI system allows users to identify targets with high accuracy and feed information to close air support, maritime or artillery assets, enabling them to engage the target directly. This state of the art ‘sensor to shooter’ system is possible through ESUK’s highly-skilled team of engineers who lead the integration of the technology.

For enhanced usability, D-JFI combines world class sensors with an intuitive application which incorporates imagery, situational awareness and intelligence data. The system uses both active and passive detection, allowing users to mask their signatures in combat. This means that using specialist software on a tablet, information gathered by the D-JFI is sent digitally to an artillery system or aircraft to instantly engage the target, while the soldier operating the system remains hidden.

Elbit Systems UK will now progress to System Acceptance Testing in the next few months, with deliveries due to the UK MOD in 2025. Following the delivery to front-line units, the JTAC solution is expected to be in operation in 2025 with the FST variant expected to enter service in 2026. This is a demonstration of the strong UK based supply chain and strengthens ESUK’s position in supporting the British Armed Forces digitisation efforts and modernisation.

D-JFI incorporates a number of Elbit Systems UK’s advanced technologies including the TORCH-X FIRES Targeting application, the AION-C multi-spectral electro-optic payload, the RATTLER XR and RATTLER H target designators, the Hattorix mounting system for fast and accurate target identification and location, and the Smart-Hub power and data distribution hub and tactical router for C4I dismounted systems components. The D-JFI system, which is fully integrated with the British Armed Forces tactical communications system and Ground to Air Networks, supports hundreds of jobs across the UK alongside other ESUK programmes. This includes five UK based subcontractors on the programme addressing the requirements for UK sovereignty and freedom of action.

Martin Fausset, CEO of ESUK said: “The D-JFI system is an innovative, state of the art solution that allows users to assess and designate targets for fire support using cutting-edge technology. In an increasingly complex landscape, the Elbit Systems UK D-JFI system will provide an operational advantage to the British Armed Forces and we will continue to work closely with them to field the system to front line units in the next year”.

17 Sept 24. US strategy for anti-ship weapons to counter China: plentiful, mobile, deadly.

Summary
Companies
US Air Force, in test, struck ship with QUICKSINK weapon
Budget documents outline US plans for missile purchases

The United States is amassing an arsenal of abundant and easily made anti-ship weapons as part of American efforts to deter China in the Indo-Pacific region and gear up U.S. forces there.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has pushed U.S. thinking toward a new philosophy – “affordable mass,” as one missile industry CEO put it, speaking on condition of anonymity, referring to having plenty of relatively cheap weapons at the ready.

“It’s a natural counter to what China has been doing,” said Euan Graham, a senior analyst with the Australian Strategic Policy Institute think tank, referring to the Chinese arsenal of ships and conventional ballistic missiles including those designed to attack vessels.

The Pentagon and China’s Ministry of Defence did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The United States has ramped up testing of its QUICKSINK weapon, an inexpensive and potentially plentiful bomb equipped with a low-cost GPS guidance kit and a seeker that can track moving objects. The U.S. Air Force used a B-2 stealth bomber during a test last month in the Gulf of Mexico to strike a target ship with QUICKSINK.

China will still have a large advantage in sheer numbers of anti-ship missiles, according to experts, and can base them on its home territory. But increasing U.S. production of QUICKSINK would narrow that gap by putting China’s 370 or so warships at more risk during any future conflict than they have faced since before Beijing leaned into modernizing its military in the 1990s.

QUICKSINK, still in development, is made by Boeing (BA.N) with a seeker from BAE Systems (BAES.L). QUICKSINK can be used with the hundreds of thousands of Joint-Direct Attack Munition tail kits – systems that can be dropped from U.S. or allied warplanes and cheaply turn “dumb” 2,000-pound (900-kg) bombs into guided weapons.

The U.S. military’s Indo-Pacific Command wants thousands of the QUICKSINK weapons – and has for years – according to an industry executive, who declined to reveal the precise figure because it is classified.

With enough “affordable mass” weapons aimed at them, Chinese ship defences would be overwhelmed, according to this executive, speaking on condition of anonymity.

In such a scenario, the U.S. military would use Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM) or SM-6 missiles to damage a Chinese warship and its radars, then bombard the vessel with lower-cost weapons such as QUICKSINK.

A VARIETY OF WEAPONS

The United States has been amassing a variety of anti-ship weapons in Asia. In April, the U.S. Army deployed its new Typhon mobile missile batteries, which were developed cheaply from existing components and can fire SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles against sea targets, to the Philippines during an exercise.

Such weapons are relatively easy to produce – drawing on large stockpiles and designs that have been around for a decade or more – and could help the United States and its allies catch up quickly in an Indo-Pacific missile race in which China has a big lead.

Although the U.S. military has declined to say how many will be deployed in the Indo-Pacific region, more than 800 SM-6 missiles are due to be bought in the next five years, according to government documents outlining military purchases. Several thousand Tomahawks and hundreds of thousands of JDAMs are already in U.S. inventories, the documents showed.

“China’s game is to restrict the movement of U.S. Navy assets in the Western Pacific and First Island Chain,” Graham said, referring to the closest major archipelagos from the coast of East Asia. “This is a sort of like-minded response to make life difficult for the PLAN.”

PLAN is short for the People’s Liberation Army Navy, China’s maritime service branch.

Placing anti-ship weapons in locations such as the Philippines would put them within reach of much of the South China Sea. China claims 90% of the South China Sea as its sovereign territory, but is opposed by five Southeast Asian states and Taiwan.

Collin Koh, a scholar at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, said, “In a way it is like levelling the playing field.”

Koh cited the example of Iran-aligned Houthi forces using low-tech anti-ship weapons against civilian traffic in the Red Sea, which forced the United States and others to deploy costly weapons to defend against them.

“If you look at the case of the Red Sea, clearly the cost equation (of anti-ship missiles) doesn’t fall on the side of the defender,” Koh said. “Even if you have a smaller arsenal of such offensive missile systems, you can still project some deterrence.” (Source: Reuters)

17 Sept 24. Pentagon awards rocket motor maker Ursa Major $12.5m. U.S. rocket propulsion startup Ursa Major said on Tuesday it was awarded a $12.5m contract to build out production and testing for new solid fuel rocket engines. The award, though small, is part of a bigger effort by the Pentagon to increase the number of rocket makers as stockpiles dwindle from supplying Ukraine and Israel in their ongoing wars. The agreement contains some of the first funds distributed from the Pentagon’s Office of Strategic Capital which are meant to seed investment in the defense industrial base’s supply chain. The Navy is also contributing to the $12.5m award that is being matched by Ursa Major, culminating in a $25m expansion of the company’s solid rocket motor capabilities.

The investment will support Ursa Major’s efforts to enhance its solid rocket motor manufacturing process under the Office of Strategic Capital’s Transition Acceleration Program, which aims to fund development of future defense products.

Separately, the Navy awarded a contract earlier this year to address surging demand for the M104 engine which is used in RTX Corp’s (RTX.N), Standard Missile family of missiles. WHAT’S NEXT

Ursa Major’s contribution to the investment will be directed toward completing an Advanced Manufacturing Pathfinder program, which includes the design, manufacture, and testing of a solid rocket motor prototype.

Tuesday’s award is significant because it is one of the first from the Office of Strategic Capital, a fund which was established to boost public-private investments in critical technology areas for national security. (Source: Reuters)

16 Sept 24. Australia launches sovereign rocket manufacturing call to arms. Industry. Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy has announced the government will make a series of investments totalling up to $80m to support the development of key subsystems as part of a sovereign Australian guided weapons manufacturing capability.

The first investment will see $22m invested as part of the government’s request for information from industry to establish a manufacturing complex that will enable the production of rocket motors for some of the world’s most advanced missiles in Australia, in support of the $21bn Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Enterprise.

This initiative is underpinned by the Albanese government’s Future Made in Australia agenda, which will improve the resilience of supply chains, providing for greater strategic sovereignty, enhance export opportunities, while delivering broad economic and employment benefits, particularly in regional Australia.

Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy welcomed this investment saying, “Today’s announcement represents a leap forward for the Australian defence industry and continues to deliver on the Albanese Government’s commitment to providing the ADF with the capabilities it needs to make Australians safer and safeguard our national interests.”

Rocket motors are a critical component of missiles and required for most guided weapons, including Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS) missiles which, under the Albanese government, will be made in Australia from next year.

The government expects that the rocket motor complex will begin production by the end of the decade.

“This is another investment in a future made in Australia and the more than 100,000 Australians, including in regional Australia, that are benefiting from the Government’s commitment to grow our sovereign defence industry and sovereign industrial base,” Minister Conroy said.

In addition to this, the Albanese government is also investing up to $60 m over the next five years to develop the next generation of guided weapons subsystems and components, such as hypersonic and long-range strike. (Source: Defence Connect)

13 Sept 24. The ALAKRAN Mobile Mortar System has been recognised for innovative technologies at the MSPO 2024 ‘Defender Awards’ in Poland. One of the eagerly anticipated highlights of the International Defence Industry Exhibition is the ‘Defender Awards’, a Gala Ceremony culminating in prestigious awards and distinctions for special achievements in the defence industry.

This year, ALAKRAN was singled out for the ‘Territorial Defence Force Commander’s Award’, for its groundbreaking, innovative technologies. The finalists are selected by the MSPO Programme Council, which is chaired by the Secretary of State at the Ministry of National Defence, Paweł Bejda. The awards were presented by Deputy Prime Minister, head of the Ministry of Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.

Milanion NTGS, the manufacturer of the ALAKRAN mobile mortar system exhibited the rapid response mortar system at MSPO 2024 in Poland with their local partner, AUTO PODLASIE, receiving positive attention from Polish and International delegations.

ALAKRAN is a versatile and resilient system, engineered with mission-critical capabilities to counter the key tactical challenges encountered on the high-intensity modern battlefield. The fully digital and automated mortar system is user-friendly and proven effective across a wide spectrum of operational environments including urban, desert, forest, mountainous, and snow. ALAKRAN is combat-proven and currently ‘in-service’ in several active war zones around the globe. It can easily be integrated onto almost any 4×4 vehicle with a minimum 2-ton payload. It outperforms competitors by utilising patented technological breakthroughs to deliver superior mobility, precision, accuracy, firepower, and crew safety.

13 Sept 24. India carries out test of updated indigenous surface-to-air missile. India’s latest test of the vertical launch short-range surface-to-air missile (VL-SRSAM) was conducted on 12 September 2024. The missile fired in this test features an updated seeker and proximity fuze. (PIB)

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy have carried out another test of the country’s vertical launch short-range surface-to-air missile (VL-SRSAM), which has since been updated with new systems.

The test was conducted on 12 September from the Integrated Test Range located in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha, India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) disclosed in a statement on the same day.

The flight test was carried out from a land-based vertical launcher and intercepted a high-speed aerial target flying at a low altitude, the statement said. An image accompanying the statement indicates that this was similar to the eight-cell launcher seen in previous tests of the weapon system.

The missile system successfully tracked and engaged the target, the statement added.

In a further explanation of what the test entailed, the MoD noted that it was carried out to validate several updated elements of the weapon system.

These include the missile’s proximity fuze and seeker. The performance of these new components was tracked with various instruments including telemetry systems and radar and electro-optic trackers, the MoD added.

The VL-SRSAM is estimated to have a length of about 3.8 m, while its estimated top speed is Mach 4 and its maximum range is believed to be between 40 and 50 km.

It is armed with a high-explosive pre-fragmented warhead and relies on an inertial navigation system (INS) for its mid-course before switching to a radio frequency-based seeker for the terminal phase of its flight. (Source: Janes)

13 Sept 24. Raytheon, NGC Successfully Test Solid Rocket Motor. Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, and Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC) have successfully completed a static fire test of an advanced long-range solid rocket motor at the Northrop Grumman Allegany Ballistics Laboratory in West Virginia.

The test demonstrated wired end-burning technology for hypersonic applications and provided data to support digital modeling and simulations that validated the design maturity and performance of the rocket motor. Raytheon’s Advanced Technology team and Northrop Grumman leveraged their combined digital engineering expertise to accelerate the design and development in a digital environment using model-based systems engineering.

“This is a major milestone in proving the significant capability of this solid rocket motor,” said Colin Whelan, president of Advanced Technology at Raytheon. “By leveraging industry collaboration, we were able to demonstrate that we can produce and meet requirements for challenging long-range fires kill chains.”

Raytheon and Northrop Grumman share a long history of collaborating on the development of hypersonic systems. Both are making investments in rocket motor testing to prove design stability and maturity that is necessary to deliver capability to servicemen and women on an accelerated schedule.

“This extremely important test of our wired end-burning technology provides extended range over conventional rocket motors,” said Frank DeMauro, vice president, Weapon Systems, Northrop Grumman. “We are excited to rapidly push the boundaries on next-generation propulsion technology and provide our customers with the ability to respond to evolving threats.” (Source: ASD Network)

13 Sep 24. L3Harris Rapidly Advances US Hypersonic Missile Tracking and Defense Capabilities.

Program successes highlight L3Harris’ ability to quickly deliver missile warning and defense capabilities for the U.S. military.

Threats to our national security increase every day as the United States’ near-peer adversaries develop and field sophisticated weapons on accelerated timelines – including hypersonic missiles that are faster, more elusive and more dangerous than ever before.

U.S. Space Force Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Salzman described the current environment at the Mitchell Institute’s annual Spacepower Security Forum earlier in 2024. “We must protect our space capabilities while being able to deny an adversary the hostile use of its space capabilities,“ said Salzman. “It allows the joint force to effectively engage strategic rivals and does not compromise the safety, security, stability, and long-term sustainability of the domain.”

L3Harris, for our part, is rising to the challenge by delivering resilient, integrated, space-based missile warning, tracking and defense capabilities the U.S. needs to stay ahead of adversary threats.

“The adversary won’t wait, and neither can we,” said Rob Mitrevski, Vice President and General Manager, Spectral Solutions, L3Harris. “We’re honored to play a leading role in adding vital capabilities to the U.S. military’s multi-layered missile warning and defense architecture. Our solutions help give the warfighter every advantage to stay ahead of advanced threats like hypersonic missiles.”

Answering the call to defend against emerging threats

Over the past year, L3Harris has made significant progress in developing solutions that rapidly and affordably address the nation’s most critical missile warning, tracking and defense challenges. Successes include:

Completing Critical Design Review and Production Readiness Review for SDA’s Tranche 1 Tracking Layer program in December 2023. As part of the $800 m contract, we’re building a 16-vehicle constellation with advanced technology designed to identify and track hypersonic missiles.
Receiving a $919 m contract from the SDA in January 2024 to build 18 space vehicles for the agency’s Tranche 2 Tracking Layer program, which will provide near-global missile warning and tracking coverage with preliminary missile defense. This builds on our work to date on prior SDA Tracking Layer tranches and other missile warning, tracking and defense solutions for the MDA and SSC.
Designing, building and testing five missile-tracking satellites for the MDA’s Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor (HBTSS) program and the SDA’s Tranche 0 Tracking Layer program. The satellites successfully launched into orbit from Cape Canaveral, Fla., in February 2024.
Completing Preliminary Design Review for the infrared (IR) sensor payload for the SSC’s Missile Track Custody (MTC) Epoch 1 satellite constellation in February 2024. These advanced missile detection and tracking capabilities will provide a resilient layer in medium Earth orbit. The project builds on L3Harris’ 60-plus years of expertise designing, building and testing mission-critical IR instruments in both geosynchronous orbit and low-Earth orbit.

Technology “building blocks” accelerate progress

“As the only prime working on Space Development Agency, Missile Defense Agency and U.S. Space Force programs, L3Harris uses a common technology approach with building blocks to save the U.S. government money and reduce risks,” said Mitrevski. “Our common core of capabilities is applied across the kill chain and in multiple orbits to address the needs of each customer. This prevents our customers from paying three times for three unique designs – increasing our offering maturity, cost efficiencies, and interoperability across the U.S. government architecture.”

Outpacing the threat with advanced innovation

L3Harris will keep its foot on the accelerator in the months ahead. Projected Missile Warning and Defense milestones and deliverables include:
Completing our first IR sensor unit, as well as a Ground Readiness Review and System Readiness Review, for the SDA’s Tranche 1 Tracking Layer program.
Completing System Requirements Review and System Design Review for the SDA’s Tranche 2 Tracking Layer program.
Completing Critical Design Review on the IR sensor payload for the SSC’s MTC Epoch 1 satellite constellation.

To meet current and future customer needs, we’re also investing heavily in scaling operations, with a focus on physical, process and personnel. Plans include building a new 60,000-square-foot IR sensor production facility in Indiana, with capacity to support the assembly, integration and testing of sensors; as well as a 90,000-square-foot space vehicle integration facility in Florida that will double L3Harris’ capacity to integrate and test satellites.

Space superiority is fundamental to modern defense in the hypersonic age, and there’s never been a more urgent need to invest in and strengthen our nation’s space capabilities. L3Harris has stepped up to meet the U.S. government’s call for innovation and will continue our role as a trusted disruptor, delivering new capabilities that keep our warfighter – and nation – safe in the years ahead. (Source: ASD Network)

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MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

MISSILE, ARTILLERY, HYPERSONICS, BALLISTICS AND SOLDIER SYSTEMS UPDATE

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