AUSA NEWS

11 Oct 23. Leonardo DRS exhibited its SPEAR HPEM C-UAS system at AUSA. SPEAR provides a portable, compact, and deployable High Power Electromagnetic (HPEM) source as a directed energy weapon against individual and swarm drone threats. The innovative system was designed as an intentional, single-pulse to repetition rate, high-power electromagnetic radiator. Due to its portable size, low weight, low power requirements, and effectivity, SPEAR provides Counter small Unmanned Aircraft System (C-sUAS) capabilities to ground vehicles, fixed platforms, and field troops.

Key Design Advantages

• High effectivity; low SWaP
• Low-cost system with ~1M magazine depth with low cost per shot; minimal logistics support needed
• Ultrawide bandwidth permits engagement of targets without prior knowledge of specific vulnerabilities
• Ability to disrupt and destroy targets with both front-and-back-door coupling
• Counter heterogeneous sUAS swarms simultaneously without prior knowledge of threat type
• Defeat ranges beyond distances associated with Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) / Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA) type UAS swarm attack distances
• System electromagnetically couples with heterogeneous target systems regardless of size
• Independent of threat orientation due to simultaneous horizontal and vertical polarization
• Rapid deployment; instantaneous effectivity
• Easily transportable, set-up/power-up in seconds to minutes

 

09 Oct 23. Oshkosh Defense, LLC, an Oshkosh Corporation company, exhibited AUSA.  On display were the highly versatile Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) and the newly modernised FMTV A2 Low-Velocity Airdrop (LVAD).

Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV): The industry-leading team of Oshkosh Defense, Pratt Miller Defense, and QinetiQ recently announced their selection in the Platform Prototype Design and Build phase of the RCV programme.

At AUSA 2023, the Oshkosh RCV is equipped with the Kongsberg CROWS-J RS6 LW 30 Remote Weapon Station and CACI counter-unmanned aircraft technologies (C-UAS) system, to showcase the platform’s versatility and capabilities to support advanced weapon systems through scalable, mission-focused modularity.

Oshkosh Defense will deliver two platform prototypes for testing in August 2024. The Army has announced the intent to select one vendor for Phase II, Full-System Prototype Design and Build, in FY24.

FMTV A2 Low-Velocity Airdrop (LVAD): As the premier manufacturer of medium tactical vehicles, Oshkosh Defense leverages the modernised FMTV A2 to address challenges related to an ageing FMTV LVAD fleet. The FMTV A2 LVAD offers the performance and protection of the FMTV A2 with critical additions including a folding cab that allows the vehicle height to be reduced to 90”, a chassis designed specifically for parachute drop and landing, and the addition of a winch to all LVAD variants.

To date, Oshkosh Defense has delivered two FMTV A2 LVAD prototypes to the US Army for testing, with two additional prototype deliveries planned for late 2023. Since testing began, the prototypes have successfully completed Rollover Protection Structures (ROPS), RIGEX (Rigging Exercises), Roller Loading, and Simulated Airdrop Impact Testing (SAIT). Additional testing is planned into FY24.

“The RCV and FMTV A2 LVAD on display demonstrate Oshkosh Defense’s commitment to working with the US Army to provide next-generation technologies and expertise necessary to meet the ever-changing demands of the battlefield,” said Pat Williams, chief programmes officer for Oshkosh Defense. “As a technology-focused tactical wheel and combat vehicle manufacturer, Oshkosh pushes the boundaries of innovation to design solutions that are purpose-built to exceed requirements and support the Army in its modernisation strategy.” (Source: www.joint-forcescom)

 

12 Oct 23. Polaris ready to meet the UK LTMP Tactical Vehicle Requirement (See BATTLESPACE Alert, ISSUE 28 – 31 August 2023, UK MoD Eyeing Tactical Vehicle Purchase) Polaris told BATTLESPACE at AUSA that it has the full range of vehicles to meet the UK LTMP Requirement with their MRZR ALPHA, and DAGR range of vehicles.

MRZR ALPHA, the next-generation light tactical off-road vehicle specially designed with revolutionary new capability. Delivering an all new, more durable chassis, high performance 8-speed transmission, high clearance front and rear dual A-Arm suspension, and increased payload. Expanded exportable power and near-future innovation enhance versatility for any mission and DAGOR A1 ultra-light tactical vehicles deliver uncompromised, world-class mobility while fully loaded with 4,000 lb of versatile payload capacity, which includes the option to carry up to 9 warfighters and their gear. Certified internal and external air-transportability, versatile payload capability, and an easy to maintain commercial off the shelf (COTS) design

In August UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) issued two LTMP PQQs industry responses to the potential acquisition of more than 1,000 4×4 and all-terrain vehicles under the Light Tactical Mobility Platform (LTMP) Medium and LTMP Light programme.

According to details contained in two separate pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQ), the LTMP Medium would seek a 4×4 solution, while the LTMP Light would require an ATV-like capability.

The LTMP Medium deal could be worth up to £80.9m ($102.8m), with the Light variant amounting to £10.4m. Closing date for submissions was listed as 25 September.

The LTMP Medium contract would see the procurement of up to 48 so-called Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTV), with potential options within the contract for a maximum of 863 UTVs inclusive of initial procurement.

Desired specifications require the UTVs to be able to accommodate a driver and passenger side-by-side, with a minimum speed of 65kph on the road when towing the platform’s maximum load, while the minimum payload capacity, including personnel, equipment, and stores, would be in excess of 600kg.

An initial support period will be for five years with the option to extend for a further five years in one-year increments. Any chosen supplier would have to provide two sample vehicles plus trailers to use during a trialling period, which would run from February – April 2024.

Similarly, the LTMP Light PQQ calls for the potential supply of up to 156 Light UTVs, with potential options within the contract to reach a maximum of 311 platforms, inclusive of initial procurement.

The LTMP Light platform would need to have a minimum ground clearance of 180mm when fully laden, achieve a minimum speed of 40kph on road when towing a weight of 450kg, and have a minimum payload capacity of 270kg.

The initial support period will be for five years with the option to extend for a further five years in one-year iterations. Two sample platforms would also have to be made available by a potential bidder for the trial date in order to be deemed compliant.

Taking each potential contract to include the maximum number of options, an individual LTMP Medium platform would cost approximately £94,000, while a single Light UTV would cost around £33,000.

Polaris will be arranging a drive day for the Editor prior to DVD.

 

10 Oct 23. Matrix Space showed the Editor its new micro radar, the MatrixSpace Radar™. The MatrixSpace Radar™ is the smallest, lightest and most portable high-performance radar available on the market, weighing only one pound.

The radar has been designed using a low-cost architecture, giving users the ability and power to digitize their outdoor environments.

In each area where our radars are placed, we offer new information and details previously unavailable, from the ground or in the air.

• Easy to set up and operate in a matter of minutes, we facilitate those situations where speed of deployment is a key factor for a successful outcome.
• If it needs to be permanently left in a remote area, it can be simply attached to a single solar array panel.
• The overall architecture design means you now have confidence in receiving the information necessary to make immediate, real-time decisions.

“How has your small form factor been achieved?” The Editor asked.

“We built our foundational platform using a fully digital (software-defined) and proprietary design. We’ve leveraged our team’s experience in RF semiconductors, software defined radios, cell phones, cellular base stations and mmWave 5G to create a fresh approach to the modern radar.” Robert Hipwell Senior Advisor replied.

“Why did you create this radar?”

“We saw a gap in the market. We saw very large radar systems, costing hundreds of thousands if not millions of dollars, and medium-sized radars that still cost in the lower hundreds of thousands of dollars. We also saw the lidar automotive market with a small form factor but very limited in range. We set out to create a radar that works at reasonable distances for most activities, especially those supporting airspace and physical security. We wanted to add to it, coupled with the ability for multi-sensing capabilities along with the overlay of AI/ML all while utilizing a low-cost architecture design.”

“How can this radar be used?”

“The MatrixSpace Radar is designed for a wide array of edge applications and is intended for commercial enterprise, law enforcement, and military use cases. One of the great benefits of radar is its ability to see targets day or night and in most weather conditions. Since we have combined powerful edge compute and RF sensing in a single package, MatrixSpace has a broad set of applications in which MatrixSpace is already working on behalf of the military/DoD. Our platform is based on 100% software-defined and modular architecture through which the product is adapted to satisfy different customer requirements with ease.”

“Why do you state that you are low SWaP?”

“SWaP stands for low (small) size, low weight and low power. Our system meets all of these attributes. Our radar is the size of a hand-held regular sized cell phone, its weight is very low at under one pound, and its power consumption is so low it could be run using a small cell sized battery or set up with a single panel solar array for long term remote power. We intentionally designed our system to be used on constrained platforms like robotics and UAV’s platforms.”

“Does your system come pre-integrated or does it require the use of your proprietary control systems?”

“Our system supports an open API structure. We will offer either a software interface for display or the option to embed our technology into your existing systems and architectures.”

“Do you hold any patents?”

“Yes, we have patents pending on our technology. We also have a number of trade secrets.”

“Is your software and technology designed in the United States?

Yes, all our development work has been done solely in the United States and our teams are 100% United States-based. We are also a current United States Government Contractor for a number of defense organizations.”

“Are your units available for sale today?”

“No, our units are not available for sale today. However, we do have a number of market trials and experimental licenses that have been granted to us.”

Once the MatrixSpace Radar™ is fully matured and trialled it is likely to attract a lot of interest in the defense, security and automotive markets.

 

12 Oct 23. BlueHalo Debuts Next Generation Missile to Counter Large UAS. Building upon its industry-leading Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) solutions, BlueHalo is unveiling its Next Generation Missile in response to the US Government’s request for missile technology that rapidly and affordably enhances warfighter lethality, survivability, and combat effectiveness, providing an agile and disruptive new technology to the munition industrial base and expanding national security air defense capabilities.

The BlueHalo Next Generation Missile (NGM) provides increased lethality and range against Group 3 UAS and other larger air threats while seamlessly integrating with existing infrastructure and command and control systems. In addition, the NGM offers a low-cost effector with superior maneuverability to defeat an array of Short-Range Air Defense (SHORAD) threats.

“The Next Generation Missile builds on BlueHalo’s proven record for delivering innovative cost-efficient technologies at the speed of mission,” said Jonathan Moneymaker, BlueHalo’s Chief Executive Officer. “BlueHalo’s NGM has the technically superior capabilities to deliver unmatched protection to our warfighters and ease of integration to truly transform our nation’s air defense systems against the ever-evolving peer threat. Equally important, it demonstrates our Company’s commitment to the DoD priorities as outlined by Deputy Secretary Hicks.”

Team BlueHalo’s NGM leverages existing infrastructure and utilizes existing Command and Control–enabling a rapid delivery timeline to get the technology to the frontlines quicker and more cost-effectively than alternatives. It is radar agnostic for flexibility in Concept of Operations (CONOPS), has significantly reduced size, weight, and power (SWaP) demands as compared with other current air defense weapons systems, and features a modular architecture with a software-defined front end that can be integrated with other rocket motors for even greater range and maneuverability against sub-sonic and supersonic threats.

Jimmy Jenkins, General Manager of the Defense Sector and a former air defender in the US Army, included, “Adding this kinetic interceptor to BlueHalo’s Directed Energy and Radio-Frequency-based C-UAS solutions provides warfighters with true end-to-end layered air and missile defense capabilities.”

BlueHalo is the leading provider of innovative, effective C-UAS solutions for national defense customers, providing critical products to essential Programs of Record with the Department of Defense. The company’s SkyView system offers autonomous radio-frequency (RF) detection and precision tracking of small UAS. Titan, another RF-based C-UAS solution from BlueHalo, can detect, track, and force drones to land safely without disrupting nearby communications or electronics. BlueHalo’s LOCUST Directed Energy Laser Weapon System combines precision optical and laser hardware with advanced software, artificial intelligence, and processing. It has been successfully delivered and operationally deployed to identify, track, and engage a wide variety of targets with its hard-kill High Energy Laser. The NGM expands BlueHalo’s portfolio of layered C-UAS air defense technologies to deliver best-in-class, cost-effective, control-point solutions to warfighters. (Source: C-UAS Hub)

 

11 Oct 23. General Micro Systems Wins Three ‘Best of Show’ Awards at AUSA. Four-star winners in Embedded Computing and Rugged Computing categories are built on GMS’ innovative new X9 Spider distributed computing architecture (DCA)

Three new General Micro Systems (GMS) innovations won Best of Show from Military Embedded Systems magazine at the Association for the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting & Exposition in Washington, D.C. this week. The X9 Spider Intelligent Switch earned four-star designation in the Embedded Computing category and the X9 Spider Rugged Thunderbolt™ Display, and the X9 Manpack, GMS’ portable mission computer, earned four-star designation in the Rugged Computing category.

All three products are built on the X9 Spider family of rugged, open distributed computing architecture (DCA) small form factor systems, designed to reduce the development barriers to rugged high-performance computing, high-definition video, sensor processing, artificial intelligence (AI), battlefield edge processing, storage, display and intelligent I/O.

“When we introduced our X9 Spider distributing computing architecture at AUSA last year, we knew we had a winning and innovative concept – and these awards, coupled with strong customer interest, validates it,” said Ben Sharfi, CEO and chief architect, GMS. “Working together or separately, on the body, in the air, on ships or the ground, the X9 Manpack, the X9 Spider Intelligent Switch and the X9 Spider Rugged Thunderbolt Display provide the compute power, I/O and distributed architecture connectivity to support the demanding needs of next-generation warfare in the smallest, lightest palm-sized devices that can fit anywhere.”

The award-winning products include:

• X9 Spider Manpack: Running off a standard soldier battery, the most powerful full-featured wearable mobile computer is intended for dismounted soldiers and Marines who need on-the-move, high-performance processing, communications, video, database access and AI. Designed from the ground up to offer the most compute power and I/O in the smallest, lightest weight battery-powered package, X9 Spider Manpack can drive up to four on-body displays such as the X9 Rugged Thunderbolt Display; connect to wireless LANs and personal area networks (PANs); uplink to mounted assets like vehicles or command posts; store up to 20TB of onboard data, and connect to high-rate body sensors while processing on-board AI algorithms such as image/facial recognition, target tracking or sensor fusion. See more details here.
• X9 Spider Rugged Thunderbolt Display

Offered in 12-inch, 17-inch, 24- or 36-inch sizes in both aluminum and carbon fiber, the handheld display provide meaningful solider information from moving maps, call-for-fire menus, sensor constellation, EW / SIGINT readouts, and even face-to-face (F2F) video conferencing. The display uses Thunderbolt 4 technology developed by Apple® and Intel to connect by exceptionally thin single copper or fiber optic cable up to 50m to any X9 host computer, including the Manpack. It gets data and power over Thunderbolt—including over GMS LightBolt fiber optic cable—and can act as a multi-function peripheral of the Manpack by adding radios, GPS, APNT, removable drive, voice activation and audio, and even high brightness and NVIS stealth. The display can be daisy-chained to expand to multiple independent displays, while acting as a plug-in peripheral appliance for the main host computer by adding COTS M.2 add-in I/O like software-defined radio (SDR) or GPS, or a removable SSD storage drive. For more information, read here.

• X9 Spider Intelligent Switch

The X9 Spider Intelligent Switch is an accelerated networking module designed to improve the performance of Ethernet-based military applications without compromising size, weight and power (SWaP) requirements. This fully sealed, rugged, fanless and battlefield-ready switch—with eight 10 GBase-TX Ethernet ports and four 100 Gb Ethernet ports—provides acquisition and modernization programs with industry-leading bandwidth and efficiency in a palm-sized module, built to carry applications forward for decades to come. For details, see the datasheet here.

About General Micro Systems:

Over 45 years, General Micro Systems (GMS) has built a reputation as the industry expert in highest-density, modular, compute-intensive, and rugged small form-factor embedded computing systems, servers and switches. These powerful systems, all built in America, are ideal for demanding C5ISR defense, aerospace, medical, industrial, and energy exploration applications. GMS is an IEC, ISO, AS9100, NIST-800-171, and MIL-SPEC supplier with infrastructure and operations for long-life, spec-controlled, and configuration-managed programs. For more information, visit www.gms4sbc.com.

 

11 Oct 23. M109-52 Self-Propelled Howitzer at AUSA. American Rheinmetall supports successful test of M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer modified with Rheinmetall’s combat-tested 52-caliber cannon.

• Rheinmetall and BAE Systems have successfully proved compatibility of L52 cannon and M109A7 Self-Propelled Howitzer
• The M109-52 system provides tactical fires overmatch to U.S. Army in a capability assured, timely, low risk manner
• Full scale M109-52 system at AUSA on BAE Systems booth (#925), with Rheinmetall’s systems house solutions for platform, cannon, projectile and propellant technology at booth (1603)

Rheinmetall and BAE Systems have successfully completed a live fire test of the M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH) modified with Rheinmetall’s L52 155mm, 52-caliber cannon. The M109-52 is a significant, low-risk, high-performance upgrade to the current 39-caliber cannon and provides additional range required in large-scale operations. The test, conducted at Camp Ripley, MN, proved the compatibility of the L52 cannon with the M109A7 platform during the live fire exercise.

“Integrating Rheinmetall’s world-class, battle-tested L52 artillery cannon system into the M109 platform will return tactical fires overmatch to the U.S. Army in a capability assured, timely, low-risk manner,” said Joe Chan, VP of Business Development at American Rheinmetall Munition.

Rheinmetall’s L52 artillery cannon system is currently the backbone of nine NATO and allied partner nations’ tactical artillery forces. By integrating this world class, combat proven system on the M109 platform, the US will achieve expanded interoperability on day one with battlefield partners. Notably, the cannon system has become a favorite for Ukraine due to its accuracy, range and durability in combat.

The M109-52 offers a low-risk pathway to rapid development, putting this significantly improved capability in the hands of our warfighters quickly to ensure overmatch on the battlefield. By combining two mature systems, Rheinmetall and BAE Systems avoid many of the technical risks associated with similar lethality upgrade efforts. The criticality to deliver improved artillery capabilities is underscored by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and is a key part of the Army’s number one modernization priority – long-range precision fires.

The team plans to conduct additional testing in 2024, which will highlight extended range across a variety of ammunition combinations.

Rheinmetall will feature their systems house solutions for platform, cannon, projectile and propellant technology across the Artillery “eco-system” at this year’s AUSA Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Washington, DC, with a display at the Rheinmetall booth (#1603). A full-sized M109-52 system will be featured on the BAE Systems booth (#925) for attendees to view throughout the show. (Source: ASD Network)

 

10 Oct 23. Northrop Grumman Athena – Advancing Survivability for Army Aircrews – A Generational Leap in Threat Detection Technology Since their introduction, Man-Portable Air Defense Systems – heat-seeking, shoulder-fired missiles – have been a persistent threat to U.S. Army aviation. Infrared countermeasures, such as Northrop Grumman’s Common Infrared Countermeasures (CIRCM), are highly effective at protecting warfighters from these threats. But CIRCM and similar systems can defeat only what they can see, and its missile warning sensors are critical to survivability. These “eyes of CIRCM” may be the unsung heroes of the countermeasure world, detecting and identifying supersonic missiles almost instantaneously.

Northrop Grumman’s next-generation missile warning sensor (MWS), the Advanced Tactical Hostile Engagement Awareness (ATHENA), provides a generational leap in threat detection capability. Introducing ATHENA ATHENA is a staring sensor, always on and keeping an eye out for threats. Setting ATHENA apart are its significant increases in resolution and processing power. In operational terms, these advances translate to additional time for warfighters and survivability systems to address threats and greater maneuverability. ATHENA is also able to detect threats beyond infrared guided missiles, including hostile fire and anti-tank guided missiles. “The longer range and resolution of ATHENA will give warfighters an additional margin of safety in contested airspace,” said Dennis Neel, program director, Northrop Grumman. A smarter sensor Aside from sharper vision, ATHENA is also a smarter sensor. Onboard processing provides actionable information instantly while preserving mission computing resources for other functions. This processing power, combined with advanced software that is updated easily to address changing mission requirements, allows for additional survivability capabilities.

One of these capabilities is full spherical situational awareness. Using the multiple sensors on a standard installation configuration, the individual video feeds are seamlessly stitched together. Operators and passengers can view any point in 360 degrees around the aircraft, even “looking through” the aircraft floor. “ATHENA exemplifies our approach to sensors, using available hardware to perform multiple functions and missions. This increases rotary wing aircraft survivability and provides situational awareness capabilities previously available only on much larger aircraft,” said Neel. “It has the potential to make any aircraft significantly more survivable. Bringing warfighters home safely is the ultimate goal.” Unparalleled missile warning expertise Northrop Grumman’s CIRCM is currently protecting Army helicopters. Northrop Grumman photo. Northrop Grumman has manufactured missile warning sensors since pioneering the first infrared countermeasure system. Customers worldwide now use Northrop Grumman survivability systems to protect more than 80 aircraft types. With each generation of CIRCM, the MWS has also grown in capability. ATHENA builds on these innovations to provide next-generation missile warning, survivability and situational awareness capabilities.

 

09 Oct 23. Avon Protection, Team Wendy and Avon Protection Ceradyne showcased next-generation CBRN protection and ballistic head protection capabilities at AUSA 2023, with a focus on enhanced technology integration for improved soldier protection.

On display for the first time in the U.S. was Avon Protection’s new Modular integrated Tactical Respirator (MiTR) concept, a new type of integrated respirator system for operational applications that don’t require full CBRN protection. The low-burden, high-performance respiratory protection system has a non-traditional integrated low-profile filter, built around a next-generation positive pressure goggle. Its novel integration design enables the wearer to don the mask without removing their helmet.

Full CBRN ensemble integration is also driving the development of Avon Protection’s first CBRN protective suit concept, designed in partnership with OPEC CBRNe. This full body garment is designed to integrate with Avon Protection’s widely deployed CBRN respiratory masks, including the M50 air purifying respirator used by the U.S. Department of Defense, and EXOSKIN CBRN boots and gloves for international military, special forces and first responder markets.

Steve Elwell, President Avon Protection, said: “Both these new concepts are designed to challenge the traditional mix-and-match approach to protective equipment that leaves the wearer subject to certain weaknesses at the points where different systems connect such as where goggles meet the helmet, or the suit meets the gloves. In addition to delivering the highest chemical, biological and antiviral protection levels, this focus on how things work together also enhances wearer comfort even for long-duration missions.”

The MiTR and suit concept are on display alongside the full range of Team Wendy ballistic and bump helmets, including the newest EPIC line of ballistic helmets and the Avon Protection Ceradyne Next Generation Integrated Head Protection System (NG IHPS) helmet currently being delivered to the U.S. Army.

“Across our three sister companies, Avon Protection, Team Wendy and Avon Protection Ceradyne, we have the market-leading technologies in CBRN and head protection solutions,” James Wilcox, President, Team Wendy, said. “The U.S. DOD is the largest operator of our equipment, and AUSA allows us to meet with this long-time partner to showcase how we are putting integration at the heart of our developments to improve soldier comfort and protection levels.”

 

10 Oct 23. Competing robotic vehicles on display after Army signals new approach. The four companies vying for the Army’s robotic combat vehicle program displayed prototypes at this year’s Association of the US Army conference.

The RCV is an unmanned system meant to serve alongside manned units, part of a larger slate of updated ground combatants — the Next Generation Combat Vehicles — the Army is acquiring. Its missions will include ones that would pose a high threat to soldiers, such as approaching enemy forces for intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance.

McQ, Textron Systems, General Dynamics Land Systems and Oshkosh Defense were selected to compete for the light model of the RCV in late September. The Army’s framework for the program has since changed, though.

This month, the service announced it was no longer seeking separate light, medium and heavy models. Instead, it would focus on a single size, somewhere between the former light and medium requirements.

“It’s really now about payload,” as opposed to size, Maj. Gen. Glenn Dean, the chief program officer for ground combat systems, told Defense News.

In this first phase of the competition each company was awarded just under $25m to submit two prototypes to the Army for testing and evaluation by August of 2024. In fiscal year 2025, the service will then choose a winner to provide nine more prototypes. The first unit is meant to be fielded in 2028.

Based in Fredericksburg, Virginia, McQ is working as the prime on a team that includes BAE Systems and HDT Expeditionary Systems, the lead vehicle developer.

The Wolf-X, their offering, is the only one with wheels, as opposed to tread. These “tweels” are designed by Michelin with spokes that compress against the surface they’re traveling on, almost like the foam on the sole of a running shoe. HDT argued these increase the vehicle’s nimbleness, stealth and durability.

According to the company, the Wolf-X runs on a hybrid diesel and electric engine and can sustain speeds above 40 miles per hour. Its range extends past 150 miles, and fitted with the base equipment required by the Army — fuel, munitions, a weapons system and UAS — it weighs around 16,000 pounds.

“It meets all the Army’s requirements for both the base vehicle, that’s relatively lightweight, as well as it can carry more than the Army’s required payloads,” said Thomas Van Doren, chief technology officer and vice president of engineering at HDT. “This has a significant amount of growth capability.”

On display two floors below, the Textron Systems RIPSAW M3 is a part of the company’s larger family of RIPSAW vehicles. Their larger M5 was among the entries competing for the Army’s RCV medium model before the competition was deferred in 2022.

“There’s a lot of commonality between our medium and our light,” said Dave Phillips, Textron senior vice president for land and sea systems. He noted that 75% of the two vehicles’ line replaceable units are the same, arguing that their experience with the M5 is now informing their lighter model.

The M3′s 80-inch wide chassis has a curb weight of 13,000 pounds and can support 5,000 pounds of payload, Phillips said. According to the company, their offering has a 140-mile range, can move at more than 30 miles per hour and has undergone 1,200 miles of operational testing.

At last year’s Army conference, Textron displayed an earlier model of their M3 with the ability to “swim.” Their current prototype no longer has the same capability. But it includes traits, such as buoyancy, that could make it easy to add back again were the Army to require it in later phases of the vehicle, Phillips said.

“I do believe ultimately, they’re going to want to do wet gap crossing,” he said. “So we’ve kept that native capability in.”

Oshkosh Defense, meanwhile, is working on a prototype for the RCV on a team that has seven combined years of experience working on the program. In an interview with Defense News, Chief Programs Officer Pat Williams argued this experience was crucial to their offering.

Williams pointed to cooling as an example.

“This RCV is a battery powered vehicle basically in a steel shell,” he said. “So there’s not a lot of room for airflow.”

Years of testing, Williams said, helped reduce the resulting instances of overheating.

Oshkosh declined to provide vehicle specifics. Their model on display at the conference featured a 30 mm turret and payload to counter unmanned aerial systems. Their offering isn’t limited to such systems, though, Williams said.

“This is a payload agnostic platform,” he said. “We can integrate whatever you want on it.”

The General Dynamics Land Systems offering is its TRX (pronounced T-rex) platform, which at the conference supported a short range air defense, or SHORAD, system as a payload.

TRX is a five-ton vehicle with a five-ton payload capacity, according to GDLS. Showcasing it with equipped air defense — usually reserved for larger systems, like a Stryker — was mean to exhibit the vehicle’s versatility, said Ray Moldovan, business development manager at General Dynamics

“It’s not necessarily showing that there’s a pathway for the SHORAD turret, what we’re showing is the capability of the TRX itself,” he said.

GDLS has experimented with other payloads on the vehicle, said Moldovan, including, among others, one that deploys small missile systems, one with an arm to quickly move obstacles, and one that performs autonomous resupply.

“We can take fielded capabilities and adapt them for the uncrewed system and show a little bit of flexibility there,” said Moldovan. (Source: Defense News)

 

06 Oct 23. AM General Revealed Three New Tactical Vehicles at AUSA 2023. AM General, the leading manufacturer of light tactical vehicles and mobility systems, will feature its mission ready and future driven capabilities to support the Warfighter now and in the future at AUSA.  The company  debuted the all new JLTV A2 and Trailer with a Bulk Water System, the HUMVEE Charge Hybrid Electric Vehicle concept, and the HUMVEE Next Generation Shop Equipment Contact Maintenance truck (HUMVEE 2-CT SECM).

The new Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV A2) by AM General features an upgraded powertrain, simplified electrical architecture which can accommodate future hybridization, improvements in noise reduction, and improved corrosion protection over the first-generation model.

The HUMVEE Charge Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) concept is designed to deliver exportable power, silent watch, and silent mobility capabilities with enhanced fuel efficiency in a light tactical vehicle platform.

The HUMVEE Next Generation Shop Equipment Contact Maintenance (HUMVEE 2-CT SECM) vehicle provides forward mobile maintenance, repair, and return of essential equipment to operational condition.

“Participating in AUSA allows us to foster the strong relationships we have forged with our customers and industry partners,” said Jim Cannon, AM General President and CEO. “The show provides an opportunity for us to reinforce our commitment to those who serve to protect us by showcasing innovative solutions and capabilities that support them and their mission.”

AM General will showcase the new Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JTLV A2) which features additional enhancements over the first-generation model as well as new exterior design cues. Key changes include an upgraded powertrain, simplified electrical architecture which can accommodate future hybridization, improvements in noise reduction, and improved corrosion protection. Additionally, the company will also display the JLTV-T Trailer which will feature Navistar Defense’s proposed solution for the US Army’s Water Bison program. AM General’s partnership with Navistar Defense on the JLTV-T is a testament to the company’s collaborative spirit and excitement to work with industry leaders to support the Warfighter and their mission.

The company will debut the HUMVEE Charge hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) concept that is designed to deliver exportable power, silent drive/silent watch capabilities, and enhanced fuel efficiency for extended range driving. The three driving modes consist of a diesel internal combustion engine (ICE), a hybrid powertrain that adds the use of an electric motor to the ICE, and an all-electric motor to power the vehicle for different missions from disaster relief to special operations requiring silent mobility. Based off the iconic HUMVEE platform, the HUMVEE Charge has been upgraded with a new semi-active suspension that increases wheel travel by 50%, while providing an increase in gross vehicle weight rating to maintain the rugged qualities for which the platform is famous. The HUMVEE Charge is a plug-in HEV that takes advantage of commercial off the shelf (COTS) components to charge off Level 1 or Level 2/3 fast chargers.

The HUMVEE 2-CT SECM truck will also be displayed at AUSA. As the prime contractor and, in partnership with Rock Island Arsenal, AM General will deliver quality and consistency in the HUMVEE 2-CT SECM manufacturing process by applying its Quality Management System across the entire enterprise which includes production parts suppliers, chassis and shelter production, and integrated vehicle testing. This next generation mobile maintenance platform allows for combat, tactical, ground support, and aviation equipment needed for maneuvering and supporting units to be easily maintained in situational environments. In keeping with the HUMVEE platform’s mantra of going where those who serve go, the ability to allow major combat systems to return to the fight as quickly as possible maximizes operational agility and drives force readiness. Key features include on-board exportable power provided by vehicle power, the NATO slave cable, and the onboard inverter as well as COTS equipment and work tools. Production of the HUMVEE 2-CT SECM began in the summer of 2023. (Source: PR Newswire)

 

10 Oct 23. Silvus Introduced StreamCaster PRISM Precision Integrated Sectorized MIMO – Antenna Radio System at the AUSA Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C. – Booth #3330. Silvus Technologies, Inc. (“Silvus”), a global leader of advanced wireless networking communication systems, today introduced StreamCaster PRISM, a new family of modular Precision Integrated Sectorized MIMO antenna radio systems at the AUSA Annual Meeting and Exposition (October 9-11) in Washington, D.C. – booth #3330.

Designed for tactical operations, at-the-halt and fixed infrastructure applications, StreamCaster PRISM’s ruggedized construction and toolless set-up enables it to be rapidly deployed, providing operational flexibility combined with unrivaled area coverage and range.

Introducing the Silvus Technologies StreamCaster PRISM  – Precision Integrated Sectorized MIMO – Antenna Radio System

A single StreamCaster PRISM can be mounted tactically on masts to create a long-range UAS ground control station, or multiple sectors can be permanently installed on rooftops, mountain peaks, or towers to create a strategic communications infrastructure for citywide mesh networks or border security operations. Additionally, with flexible power source options (AC and DC) available, StreamCaster PRISM goes where it’s needed most.

StreamCaster PRISM combines the performance of Silvus’ StreamCaster MANET radios, providing up to 20W output power (80W effective radiated power thanks to TX Eigen Beamforming) and up to 100 Mbps data throughput, with high-gain, dual polarity sector antennas to deliver up to 360° of coverage for air and ground applications.

“StreamCaster PRISM offers customers a wide spectrum of precision integrated sectorized MIMO solutions to quickly and securely expand their mesh network capabilities in virtually any environment,” said Jimi Henderson, Silvus Technologies, Vice President of Sales. “These high gain, sectorized antennas coupled with state-of-the-art StreamCaster MANET radios provide a blanket of coverage throughout an area of operation, allowing operators to concentrate on their mission and not on their communications infrastructure.”

StreamCaster PRISM antenna radio systems are now available in a variety of L, S, C, and dual S/C frequency band configuration options with 12-16 dBi gain and dual polarity. New StreamCaster PRISM antenna radio system configuration options will launch in the future to meet emerging customer requirements.

Learn more about StreamCaster PRISM and the StreamCaster family of MANET radios at www.silvustechnologies.com and follow us on LinkedIn to get the latest news.  (Source: PR Newswire)

 

09 Oct 23. General Micro Systems (GMS) announced that the X9 Spider Mission Computer has been chosen by Research Innovations (RII) to create the company’s latest electronic warfare/signals intelligence (EW / SIGINT) product. Because of the X9’s tiny, rugged form-factor; flexible add-in I/O; high-density shared DDR4 memory, and closely coupled CPU/GPU architecture, RII is actively investing in the development of a battlefield-deployable product. Pairing GMS’s small form factor X9 hardware with RII’s unique ability to empower edge artificial intelligence (AI) and wideband RF processing will enable new cyber applications on previously unavailable platforms.

RII has ordered the X9 Spider Mission Computer fully equipped with I/O and an NVIDIA® A4500 GPU.  GMS has also customized the X9 Spider’s development platform—the “mezzanine test board” (MTB)—to meet RII’s unique specifications for integrating Epiq Solution’s software-defined radio (SDR). RII’s initial plans for the X9 Spider Mission Computer are for on-the-battlefield mobile, portable and vehicle-mounted use in classified EW / SIGINT applications. It aims to succeed Photon, the wideband accelerated RF processing platform, creating a next-generation solution and doing so in a significantly reduced form factor. Initial deployment of the RF-programmable cyber product is hundreds per year.

Why It Matters

“It’s a game-changer,” said Bill Urrego, inventor of Photon while at the MITRE Corporation, and now an Engineering Fellow at RII. Urrego served as a senior principal engineer designing RF systems for the Army’s Program Manager Electronic Warfare & Cyber (PM-EW&C)—systems like TLS-BCT, which use Photon and NVIDIA GPU’s for AI / ML EW / SIGINT capabilities. “We are forging a generational breakthrough in distributed edge sensors with Spectrum access to 200 MHz of bandwidth using our embedded heterogeneous compute stack.”

The smaller form factor represents a reduction in 10x SWaP. The X9 Spider Mission Computer is about 2 x 4.75 x 6 inches, and literally fits in the palm of the hand. As well, it will run the same core RII software as on the rackmount servers but requires 60 cubic inches vs approximately 8,000 cubic rackmount inches.

Rugged and waterproof, X9 Spider takes up less than 1 percent of the space (!), weighs under 3 pounds, can run on a standard soldier battery, and is stout enough to operate from -40°C to +85°C in the rain. For perspective, 133 X9’s would fit in the same rackmount space, offering that much additional EW RF processing. X9 Spider Mission Computer now blows open the possibilities for EW / SIGINT RF cyber processing in previously unavailable ways.

The need for tactical, battlefield SDR products is acute. From receiving and identifying signals, to spoofing and jamming them, small passive and active SIGINT and EW products can be added to ground vehicles, UAS, airborne fighter jets, and even dismounted soldiers and Marines.

“The nature of warfare is changing,” said Ben Sharfi, CEO and Chief Architect at GMS. “At-the-edge computing clearly is better than moving data back CONUS for processing. But the sweet spot is adding RF and AI capabilities to anything and everything that can benefit from local processing and instantaneous results.” The entire X9 Spider family of rugged small form factor computers, AI, networking, storage and display products was created to make local on-the-battlefield processing and connectivity a reality.

X9 Spider Mission Computer Family

“Next-generation platforms like aircraft, vehicles, UAS and sensor systems require next-generation capabilities to maximize computing resources in lean, flexible and cost-effective ways,” Sharfi said. “By breaking the outdated and needlessly expensive, centralized ATR-style board-and-chassis paradigm into Thunderbolt™ technology-connected distributed compute modules, the X9 Spider family gives designers ruggedized, as-needed capabilities to solve any compute problem in any environment—from the smallest enclosure to the largest C5ISR system.” Rugged X9 Spider modules are small and modular, plug-and-play, and emphasize flexibility over ATR chassis’ physical and electrical constraints. An X9 module literally fits in the palm of your hand like a cell phone.                                                                   Built for limitless expandability, the X9 Spider family is based on brand-new, patent-pending mechanical features that allow devices to stack and interconnect electrically, physically and thermally but literally at light speed with minimal signal bottlenecks. X9 Spider connects directly to next-gen sensors without intermediate electronics—simplifying their connection to the electronic system—making the sensors themselves equally scalable and modular. This kind of upgradeability gives the DoD, primes and system developers limitless possibilities with very low upgrade costs.

No one in the rugged industry has anything like X9 Spider because much of the technology was invented and patented by GMS. The revolutionary family includes:

• Interconnectivity via the COTS open standard Thunderbolt 4 technology, developed by Intel® and Apple.® As well, 100Gb Ethernet over fiber connects X9 Spider modules to each other and to other high-speed systems
• Mission Computer and AI Processor with a range of storage and network capabilities powered either by Intel’s®latest 11th-generation Xeon W (Tiger Lake-H) 8-core CPU, or by NVIDIA’s Jetson AGX Orin GPGPU with ARMcore engine, plus GPGPU CUDA and Tensor cores
• Six (6) companion X9 modules, including “Workstation” with removable storage and up to 14 sites for add-in I/O like MIL-STD-1553; Network “Switch” with four 100Gb and eight 10Gb Ethernet ports; “Storage” with removable canister and up to eight high-density M.2 or U.2 SSD storage devices; “GPGPU” with NVIDIA RTX-5000 or A4500 GPGPU and custom I/O module such as video frame grabber for autonomous driver sensors, and utility X9 Spider modules for “Power” and “Cooler”
• Improved reliability and robustness through the patent-pending QuadroLock™ active wedge lock technology, enabling X9 Spider modules to interlock to withstand severe noise, vibration and harshness while simultaneously transferring heat between modules for maximum cooling
• Cutting-edge, long-range and cost-efficient interconnects through the patent-pending LightBolt™ connector, supporting Thunderbolt 4 fiber or copper and 100W power in one cable

“X9 Spider’s interoperability not only lowers acquisition costs, but it enables modernization and upgrade programs to move past restrictive single-box architectures like VME and OpenVPX, and instead uses plug-and-play standards like Thunderbolt 4, 100Gigabit Ethernet and USB4 that are deployable anywhere on the platform,” Sharfi said. “This decentralizes computing, power distribution and heat dissipation while improving fault tolerance through redundancy or merely by physically separating critical functions. These capabilities required new mechanical and electrical innovations to achieve a truly MOSA-open, modular, distributed and scalable system that designers will love.”

The GMS X9 architecture includes 22 patents either filed for or granted.

 

10 Oct 23. US Army exec wants ‘robust’ industry input in revamp of artillery software. U.S. Army networking experts want to rejuvenate software with decades of history that helps troops coordinate mortars, guided missiles, close air support and more on the battlefield.

The service’s Program Executive Office Command, Control and Communications-Tactical is “embarking on our modernization strategy” for the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System, or AFATDS, according to Mark Kitz, the office’s leader.

“It’s been one of those programs that’s been out there so long, but it’s really a software application to do fires. I want to stimulate a robust industry involvement,” Kitz said. “Update it, modernize it, ground-up deliver a new capability.”

The automated AFATDS program — meant to shrink the sensor-to-shooter timeline while also boosting accuracy — fuses situational awareness and targeting data in near-real time. It is a digital cornerstone of several ventures with the Long Range Precision Fires Cross-Functional Team, including the Extended Range Cannon Artillery and the Precision Strike Missile program.

Leidos in 2017 won a contract worth tens of ms of dollars to work on the software, promising to improve functionality, update the user interface and simplify training modules. The Virginia-based company is the 16th largest defense contractor in the world by defense revenue, according to Defense News’ Top 100 list.

The program executive office in February issued a request for information concerning the overhaul of AFATDS, which interfaces with more than 80 other systems, including some owned by the Air Force and Navy. The technology has been employed in one way or another since before the 2000s.

The Army is prioritizing networking and communication enhancements as the Pentagon pursues Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control, a state in which forces across land, air, sea, space and cyberspace are interlinked and supportive of one another. Kitz did not provide a potential dollar amount for the effort. (Source: C4ISR & Networks)

 

10 Oct 23. Curtiss-Wright’s Defense Solutions Division announced a collaborative development agreement with Cisco to bring secure enterprise-class network switching solutions – based on the Cisco Catalyst ESS9300 Embedded Series switches with Internetworking Operating System (IOS) XE – to rugged, deployed aerospace and defense OpenVPX systems environments for the first time. Delivering an array of network switching capabilities not previously available on OpenVPX hardware, the collaboration promises to provide ground and airborne network designers with features they need and expect from an enterprise-class network switch for communicating both in and outside of the system chassis.

The products resulting from this agreement will significantly help increase network security, flexibility, and control at the tactical edge.

• Cisco IOS XE enables network system designers to architect resilient networks and provides high-level, advanced capabilities that assist in mitigating network issues that can otherwise cause disconnected, intermittent, and limited (DIL) conditions at the tactical edge, such as switch looping.
• The new Sensor Open System Architecture™ (SOSA) aligned plug-in-card (PIC) network switch solutions will provide network system designers with access to advanced network switch features and capabilities, including port security and access control through 802.1x, support for SSH and SNMP v3, FIPS 140 and Common Criteria certification.
• The rugged OpenVPX network switch products will be STIG-Ready with DISA authored Security Technical Implementation Guides. These guides provide the technical security policies, requirements and implementation details for applying security concepts to Cisco IOS XE to provide customers with a fast path to a Risk Management Framework (RMF) process and drastically reduce the effort required to attain Authority to Operate (ATO).

The 3U OpenVPX network switch solutions based on the Cisco Catalyst ESS9300 Embedded Series with Cisco IOS XE. Designed to meet MIL-SDT-810H environmental ruggedization requirements, the new network switch solutions will be the first OpenVPX form factor members of Curtiss-Wright’s popular PacStar® family of tactical communications solutions. In addition to bringing widely used enterprise-class, hardware-based switching technology to VPX and SOSA™ aligned embedded ecosystems, the plan is to have this product meet security certifications required to be FIPS and Common Criteria complaint, enabling them to be securely deployed on Government networks and migrate NSA-approved Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC) data encryption solutions to new form factors.

“Curtiss-Wright is excited to partner with Cisco to bring their Catalyst line of network switches to the rugged deployed VPX system environment with SOSA Technical Standard alignment,” said Brian Perry, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions Division. “Cisco’s switching technology and IOS XE operating system provide enterprise-class features for DoD and defense industry to build secure networks both inside and outside of a VPX chassis. This joint development will deliver a key component for our turn-key integrated tactical communications solutions to the VPX form factor, including our secure CSfC encrypted product offerings, for the first time.”

“Cisco and Curtiss-Wright have been partners in delivering custom solutions for the military for several years. Our collaboration brings together Cisco’s expertise in networking with Curtiss-Wright’s deep knowledge of defense technology,” said Samuel Pasquier, Vice President, Cisco Industrial IoT. “By combining our strengths, we deliver solutions that improve security and meet compliance requirements of critical defense systems. Today we are expanding our relationship to address military’s new converged CMOSS initiative for force modernization that simplifies their communications systems.”

Curtiss-Wright plans to offer a new OpenVPX solution based on Cisco Catalyst ESS9300 Embedded Series switch with upcoming product releases. The new network switch PICs will be listed on the Department of Defense Information Network (DoDIN) Approved Products List (APL) to simplify the procurement process for DoD organizations seeking products that have met cybersecurity and interoperation certification requirements.

About Curtiss-Wright’s Family of Leading Battlefield Solutions

Curtiss-Wright’s industry-leading PacStar family of advanced communications solutions addresses a wide range of military, intelligence, and commercial applications. Curtiss-Wright created and manufactures COTS-based rugged, small form factor expeditionary and mobile communications systems. Separately, it developed integrated, network communications management software, IQ-Core® Software, for the military, federal, state/local government, and emergency responder markets. The company’s patented IQ-Core Software, hardware technology, and integrated solutions provide secure, command, control, and communications systems, particularly in remote or infrastructure-starved areas. In addition, PacStar communications systems are ideally suited for commercial/industrial organizations with mission-critical field communications requirements.

 

10 Oct 23. GM Defense LLC, a subsidiary of General Motors (GM) made several announcements at AUSA. GM announced two new versions of its ISV vehicle including a loadbed version to accommodate a Standard NATO two tonne pallet and various weapon systems and a specialist Exportable Power systems vehicle which has ports for various electronic systems for stationary and battlefield applications; the system can ‘charge on the move.’

GM also showed the next iteration of Light Tactical armoured vehicles in hybrid electric and 2.8 (for the hybrid version) and 6.8 litre multi-fuel versions. The Light Tactical Range is in developmental stage with a number of companies vying to armour the vehicle to STANG 2 level. A number of armies including the UK have shown interest in the new vehicle.

GM Defense’s All-Electric Military Concept Vehicle (eISV), was on display,  combines the proven and fielded nine-passenger Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV) with General Motors’ (GM) commercially available battery electric solution. The eISV’s battery technology provides Silent Watch and Silent Extraction, enhances capability with low acoustic and thermal signatures and serves as an onboard, mobile generation power source for various mission equipment payload packages. The concept vehicle seats up to five passengers and features a cargo box, providing the flexibility to integrate a full range of mission packages and logistics support, including ammunition, food, water and fuel. The concept vehicle also includes a modified integrated Roll Over Protection System (ROPS) constructed from 4130 chromoly steel tubing delivering lightweight, high-strength protection for all passengers. The eISV maintains the rugged, off-road performance, attributes and capabilities of the original nine-passenger ISV, a U.S. Army official program of record specifically designed to meet Soldier requirements. The ISV is based on the award-winning Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 midsize truck architecture and is comprised of 90 percent Commercial-Off-The-Shelf components, including 11 Colorado ZR2 off-road suspension and chassis upgrades from Chevrolet Performance.

GM Defense also announced a teaming agreement, establishing a framework to collaborate on defense program capture activities. The team is focused on delivering autonomy solutions, battery electrification and other new propulsion technologies, as well as those integrating the full range of Anduril technologies onto GM Defense mobility solutions.

The announcement aligns with the Association of the U.S. Army tradeshow in Washington, D.C. where both companies are showcasing variations of the proven and fielded Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV).  In booth 661, hall A, GM Defense will have a four-seat Multi-Mission and Logistics ISV equipped with Anduril loitering munitions. In booth 4315, Anduril is hosting GM Defense’s nine-Soldier ISV, currently fielded to the U.S. Army’s 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, in addition to Lattice, Anduril’s sensor, network, and system-agnostic open software platform, for land systems command and control.

“GM Defense has a strong strategic alignment with Anduril as we are both focused on bringing disruptive new technologies into the defense and government marketplace to deliver innovative solutions for our customers,” said Steve duMont, GM Defense president. “We feel this is a powerful team, and together we can make a strong offering for key U.S. defense programs while assessing other global opportunities.”

With experience in ground vehicle autonomy, sensing, vehicle safety systems and connected vehicle fleet analytics, GM Defense develops solutions based on the advanced technologies of its parent company, General Motors, that help advance warfighter capabilities with some of the most advanced technologies available on the commercial market.

Anduril is a leading provider of advanced defense technologies, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and integrated defense solutions. “We are thrilled to be working with GM Defense to produce new capabilities for land systems. Advanced software for mission-level autonomy can transform ground systems, and GM Defense will be a critical teammate to deliver next-generation land systems for warfighters around the world,” said Anduril Industries CEO, Brian Schimpf.

GM Defense also showed details of its, newly designed Heavy-Duty Sport Utility Vehicle (HD SUV) which has its armoring built into the original design and manufacturing process, thus diverging from current aftermarket teardown and rebuild practices. The goal is to improve build efficiency, reduce lead time in bringing vehicles into service and provide higher quality performance. Additional long-term value is expected through a five-year, 50,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty and extended vehicle lifespan as compared to the current two-year, 2,000-mile warranty typical of the multi-stage aftermarket armoring process.

GM Defense showed a mock up on a Rheinmetall 8×8 truck of its energy storage unit which will meet the requirements of DIU’s Stable Tactical Expeditionary Electric Power (STEEP) program. STEEP seeks to support tactical microgrid and energy management capabilities in austere locations, reducing logistical requirements and the reliance on fossil fuels as the primary energy source across the DoD. GM Defense has leveraged GM’s advanced electric vehicle propulsion architecture, the Ultium Platform, to deliver a scalable and adaptable energy storage unit that supports the tactical energy requirements of the warfighter. The prototype solution will provide uninterruptable and sustainable power for mission critical equipment, such as command and control, communications, radar and weapons systems in remote areas or where a stable power grid is absent. GM Defense’s STEEP energy storage system will provide intelligent tactical microgrid capabilities that work with hydrogen-powered generators, stationary and mobile battery electric power or existing fuel-powered generators to support efficient power management and distribution.

 

05 Oct 23. Sentient showed newly-developed ViDAR sensors at AUSA. The trials demonstrated the AI-enabled optical sensor’s capabilities to detect targets from high operating altitudes of 30,000 feet and to provide persistent wide-area motion imagery for long-range ISR missions. The company claims that ViDAR’s deep learning and computer vision solution offers faster processing and more accurate detection, fully meeting the ADF’s requirements for effective methods of detecting, locating and tracking small objects in complex environments, achieving results up to 30 times faster than current HD turret-based capabilities.

The company believes this development is well timed: Australia, the United Kingdom and United States are now engaging in strengthening AUKUS ties, with Pillar 2 of the strategic industrial agreement focusing on AI collaboration. One desired outcome will be exploiting data diversity, enhancing detection and classification accuracy and thereby enabling better decision-making in environments in which available information reaches very high densities. Operator benefits include improved versatility to provide joint forces with land and maritime capabilities, high accuracy data to detect, locate, classify and track at high altitude and the fact that ViDAR is platform agnostic.

“The capability sets demonstrated not only met, and in many cases exceeded the mission objectives, but also importantly provided a road map for US and allied forces deployment of advanced, low signature sensor solutions with onboard processing,” said Chief Technology Officer, Callum McGregor. “Clearly the modularity and interoperability of Sentient’s technologies for AUKUS Pillar 2 sets the scene for a raft of integration on crewed and uncrewed airborne platforms”.

“Lessons learnt in Ukraine demonstrate the need for real-time intelligence – and that demands AI-enabled surveillance technologies to flag targets of interest before they become threats,” said Brent Bergen, US Business Development Director. For more information: www.sentientvision.com (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)

 

12 Oct 23. Fairwinds Technologies and Domo Tactical Communications (DTC) have entered into a joint development agreement to take the DTC SuperNode Prototype and develop it into a full commercially available product that will address the Directional Networking Mobile Ad hoc Networking Radio Market (DN-MANET).

The SuperNode innovation consists of six radios which are combined by DTC’s Interlink that allows Mesh networks to be connected via a wired Ethernet link. Antenna directionality transmits only in the direction required and at lower RF power levels.

SuperNode is fully suitable for both On-the-Move and At-the-Halt tactical networking applications and for both vehicle and fixed mounting and has the potential to support data rates of 87Mbps or more depending on channel bandwidth chosen.

DTC’s MANET MeshUltra™ technology can deliver huge benefits to the warfighter as it can be deployed at pace without the need for fixed infrastructure or manual configuration and it is extremely resilient against attack.

DTC MANET Mesh technology employs the latest generation of MeshUltra™ self-forming, self-healing waveforms that have been proven highly effective in contested RF environments.

When this technology is implemented in a network configuration using directional RF transmissions, it can achieve Lower Probability of Detection (LPD), Lower Probability of Intercept (LPI) and greater jamming resistance with greater LOS and NLOS range than a more conventional omnidirectional MANET Mesh. (Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)

 

12 Oct 23. Domo Tactical Communications (DTC) and TrellisWare Technologies Partner to Deliver Multiple Waveform Capabilities to a Single Tactical Radi. Domo Tactical Communications (DTC), the leading provider of wireless mesh technology, and TrellisWare Technologies, Inc., a global leader in highly advanced algorithms, waveforms, and communications systems, today announced a partnership to deliver a multi-waveform radio solution to the U.S. military, coalition partners, and commercial customers. This industry-first solution enables users access to unmatched communications flexibility, reducing the dependency on proprietary solutions, allowing them to select between DTC’s leading MeshUltra or TrellisWare’s TSM™ waveform based on their specific purpose and/or region of use.

“The integration of the TSM waveform into the DTC product line provides our customer base the ability to move between two separate and distinct waveforms easily all from a single radio,” said Dave Huisenga, Executive Vice President and General Manager for DTC. “Soldiers can now use our products to rapidly switch between waveforms for effective, reliable communications no matter the mission requirement or global operating environment.”

This ground-breaking collaboration enables U.S. military and five eyes (FVEY) warfighters to operate within a common hardware platform while providing the ability to seamlessly choose between waveforms on DTC’s software defined radios, enabling users to easily adapt and meet their precise location and mission needs. The collaboration will expand DTC’s reach within the U.S. military and across the coalition, and commercial market.

“This unique multi-waveform integration further enhances Codan Communication’s global product portfolio and complements our existing HF, VHF and interoperable solutions,” said Paul Sangster, President and Executive General Manager, Codan Communications. “As we continue to see investment in soldier modernization programs, Codan Communications’ global footprint surrounding products, manufacturing and support is key to demonstrating full spectrum dominance on the battlefield.”

“We are excited to support DTC in integrating the TSM™ waveform into their product line. Combining TrellisWare and DTC waveforms on a single radio will provide our end customers more choices to meet their communication needs,” said Metin Bayram, President and CEO, TrellisWare Technologies.

About Domo Tactical Communications

DTC is the leading MIMO MESH provider in the world. DTC radio solutions provide short range high bandwidth communications suitable for the wireless transmission of video and other data applications. DTC is an established provider to customers including Military and Special Forces, Intelligence Agencies, Border Control and First Responders. DTC is headquartered in the US with locations in the UK and Denmark, with over 160 employees.

About CODAN Communications

CODAN Communications is a global technology company that develops robust technology solutions to solve customers’ communications, safety, security, and productivity problems in some of the harshest environments around the world.

We provide tactical communications solutions that enable our customers to be connected, ultimately to support critical missions worldwide. With almost 60 years in the business, we have garnered a reputation for quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, producing innovative and industry-leading technology solutions.

CODAN Communications is a member of the Codan group of companies.

About TrellisWare Technologies

TrellisWare Technologies, Inc is a global leader in highly advanced algorithms, waveforms, and communications systems, ranging from small form factor radio products to fully integrated solutions. Their trusted waveforms and advanced communication technologies are built for interoperability and incorporated into a wide range of partner platforms. TrellisWare Technologies is headquartered in San Diego, CA.

 

09 Oct 23. Rheinmetall’s PATH A-Kit: A Platform Agnostic, Next-Generation System that Brings Critical Autonomous Capabilities to any Vehicle At this year’s AUSA Annual Meeting & Exposition, Rheinmetall is showcasing its PATH Autonomous Kit (A-Kit) on a variety of platforms to demonstrate the system’s ability to transform any vehicle platform into an autonomous powerhouse. The system was displayed on an M5 Ripsaw RCV equipped with Rheinmetall’s 30mm Skyranger turret, and also on partner booths – Tomahawk Robotics (#4049) and L3Harris Technologies (#1725) – where variants of Rheinmetall’s Mission Master unmanned ground vehicle were on display. The Rheinmetall PATH A-Kit is a navigation system that enables full autonomous movement of vehicles. It can be rapidly integrated onto existing vehicles or the latest next-generation platforms. It is a core element of Rheinmetall’s exceptional Mission Master family of autonomous vehicles and combines advanced sensors, technology leading algorithms, and real-time data analysis to allow vehicle platforms to operate autonomously in a wide range of operating environments. Fielded and tested on this family of vehicles, but also a wide array of other platforms, the PATH A-Kit is a mature, proven technology that stands out from the competition. In addition to facilitating fully autonomous operations, the PATH A-Kit software includes wireless technology that is loaded onto a Safe Tablet. The tablet is a modular, configurable device that enables remote operation of any vehicle equipped with the PATH A-Kit, as demonstrated on the Mission Master family of vehicles. The Safe Tablet can be used to control different mission module payloads (surveillance, weapons, cargo, etc.), making it the preferred portable control station for the Mission Master family of vehicles and mission modules they carry. American Rheinmetall is now bringing ground-breaking advancements in autonomous systems to the U.S. defense market at a critical time with Rheinmetall’s PATH A-Kit, a ready-now, mature and proven solution, with advanced capabilities that ensures future force mobility that is agile, versatile, persistent, reliable, survivable and lethal.

 

05 Oct 23. Fortem Technologies highlights SkyDome Manager C2 system and TrueView radars at AUSA. Fortem Technologies will focus visitor attention on the newly-advanced SkyDome command and control (C2) systems at the AUSA conference in Washington, DC, 9-11 October. Also on prominent display will be the latest updates to the TrueView radar line.

Utah-based Fortem recently secured an additional USD17.8 m in new funding and signed a collaboration agreement with the UAE’s Etimad Holdings at IDEX in Abu Dhabi earlier this year. Last year, the company’s DroneHunter systems was successfully proven against Group 1, 2 and 3 drone threats.

“We are certain that in our effort to defeat dangerous drones, the hardware and software upgrades we are presenting make our mission even more possible and effective,” said Jon Gruen, CEO.

For more information: www.fortemtech.com (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)

 

09 Oct 23. American Rheinmetall Unveils Best-in-class 30mm Cannon on RCV to Demo Mobile C-UAS Excellence.

• American Rheinmetall is displaying the Skyranger 30mm turret on Textron Systems’ Ripsaw M5 RCV at AUSA to demonstrate leading c-UAS technology, available now (booth 1603)
• Skyranger offers exceptional lethality, precision and versatility in all air defense scenarios
• Skyranger, paired with Textron’s M5 can be deployed alongside ground forces or used for stationary vital-asset protection

Rheinmetall, a leader in advanced defense technologies and solutions, is taking the mobile counter-UAS fight to the next level at this year’s Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting. Rheinmetall showcased the exceptionally lethal, precise and versatile Skyranger 30, the world’s most advanced c-UAS turret, with the combined speed, mobility, and unmanned capability of Textron Systems’ Ripsaw M5 robotic combat vehicle (RCV). When integrated on an unmanned ground vehicle, Skyranger can secure the air space and mitigate UAS threats in the most austere and contested battle spaces, including autonomously at the tactical edge.

The use of best-in-class cannon systems means that Skyranger can stand its ground against swarming attacks. Together with Textron’s M5, Skyranger can be deployed alongside ground forces or used for stationary vital-asset protection. The Skyranger can protect mobile units on the march or critical fixed infrastructure and facilities from loiter, pop-up and dive attacks. The Skyranger 30 variant represents a significant leap-ahead in c-UAS technology by coupling 360° air and ground surveillance with an autonomous 30mm Oerlikon Revolver Gun®, Oerlikon AHEAD® airburst ammunition and short-range air defense missiles. The 30mm revolver gun provides ultimate firepower and precision at 1,250 rds/min, and when combined with the dynamically programmed airburst ammunition, enhances the probability of hitting even the smallest micro and nano drones.

Skyranger can independently generate its own local air picture while its open architecture C2 system (Skymaster), IFF and data link can be seamlessly integrated into higher echelon systems such as FAADC2. As the threats evolve, so will the Skyranger. Also available as a 35mm variant, the Skyranger family offers the most modern mobile defense against an array of current and future battlefield air threats.

Rheinmetall has earned exceptional customer trust on an international level, providing air defense and c-UAS solutions to over 40 countries and is committed to working with the U.S. Army and industry partners to deliver next-generation air defense capabilities in America. (Source: ASD Network)

 

09 Oct 23. AUSA 2023: consortium launches C-UAS semi-autonomous platform. HDT Global, Leonardo DRS and Smart Shooter have joined forces to offer a new lower-tier counter-drone systems at AUSA in Washington, DC, this week.

Based on HDT Global’s Hunter WOLF (Wheeled Off-road Logistics Follower) 6-wheeled UGV, The system consists of a turreted infantry rifle with an optimised smart sight from Smart Shooter – the Smash Hopper and Smash 2000-series computerised optic – and an RPS42 radar from the Leonardo DRS Multi-Mission Hemispheric (MMH) family.

At the heart of the system’s capability lies the optic which, in the turreted variant, is operated via tablet-style controller. Smart Shooter believes the system to be particularly well-suited to the lower-end C-UAS role, given its ability to acquire and lock-on to small moving targets. The addition of the radar extends the detection range to in excess of 30 kilometres, dependent on the size and activity of the target aircraft, among other factors.

As a semi-autonomous platform, the Hunter WOLF/Smartshooter/Leonardo combination offers flexible response, advanced detect and engage capabilities and a high degree of interoperability. An onboard generator lends itself to protracted operations with the range of sensors and systems on board, and facilitating running in silent mode for extended periods. The ability to counter small, low, but threatening drones will be an increasing attractor for a wide variety of military and security agencies for the foreseeable future. For more information: www.smart-shooter.com (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)

 

10 Oct 23. Teledyne FLIR Defense Unveils New Black Hornet 4 Personal Reconnaissance System at AUSA Conference. Next gen nano-drone builds on battle-proven Black Hornet 3 legacy; Delivers improved range, endurance, signature and imagery data while providing covert situational awareness to warfighters

Teledyne FLIR Defense, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY), is introducing its new Black Hornet® 4 Personal Reconnaissance System at this week’s Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) conference in Washington D.C.

Black Hornet 4 represents the next generation of lightweight nano-drones, building on its predecessor to deliver enhanced covert situational awareness to small units. A new 12-megapixel daytime camera with superior low-light performance, plus new high-resolution thermal imager, deliver crisp video and still images to the operator. At just 70 grams, Black Hornet 4 has a flying time of more than 30 minutes, range greater than two kilometers, and can fly in 25-knot winds. Flight performance has been augmented by new obstacle avoidance capabilities and an advanced battery.

Compared to small quad-rotor drones, the single rotor Black Hornet 4 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has an extremely low visual and audible signature, enabling it to identify threats day or night without being detected. Able to launch in less than 20 seconds and well suited for missions in GPS-denied environments, the Black Hornet 4 UAV can be used to rapidly identify targets beyond visual line-of-sight and assess weapon effects in real-time.

“Black Hornet 4 takes the features and capabilities that made Black Hornet 3 world renowned to the next level,” said Dr. JihFen Lei, executive vice president and general manager of Teledyne FLIR Defense. “We’ve worked closely with customers and end users to make this system even more valuable for dismounted soldiers in need of situational understanding or engaged in covert operations, where precise and immediate intel is crucial.

“Black Hornet 4 is future-proof nano-drone technology,” Lei added.

FLIR Defense has delivered more than 20,000 Black Hornet PRS systems to military and security forces in over 40 countries. Black Hornet drones are currently being used in Ukraine through donations made by the British and Norwegian governments, where they have performed successfully in numerous missions under the harshest of environments.

The U.S. Army began acquiring Black Hornets five years ago as part of its Soldier Borne Sensor program and since then has placed orders totaling more than $125m. In July, the Army awarded Teledyne FLIR a five-year contract worth up to $94 m for additional Black Hornet systems.

Visit Teledyne FLIR Defense at AUSA in Hall A, Booth 1003, to see the new Black Hornet 4, or learn more online. Black Hornet 4 is designed and built by FLIR Defense in Norway. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

10 Oct 23. Rheinmetall, a leader in advanced defense technologies and solutions, took the mobile counter-UAS fight to the next level at this year’s Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting. Rheinmetall is showcasing the exceptionally lethal, precise and versatile Skyranger 30, the world’s most advanced c-UAS turret, with the combined speed, mobility, and unmanned capability of Textron Systems’ Ripsaw M5 robotic combat vehicle (RCV). When integrated on an unmanned ground vehicle, Skyranger can secure the air space and mitigate UAS threats in the most austere and contested battle spaces, including autonomously at the tactical edge.

 

09 Oct 23. Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) defended the National Capital Region against simulated cruise missile and compromised aircraft in a series of recent demonstrations, an evolution of technical capabilities for the system.

As the cornerstone of the U.S. Army’s efforts to modernize air and missile defense, IBCS now has shown its data-centric extensibility to take on additional missions including homeland defense, as it has proven through previous rigorous testing of its ability to defend the warfighter.

• During the first two demonstrations, IBCS’ open architecture allowed the rapid integration of existing Army and Air Force sensors and effectors, such as Sentinel, Avenger and National Advanced Surface-to-Air-Missile System (NASAMS).
• Through the concluding demonstration, soldiers from the 263rd Air and Missile Defense Command used IBCS and the Joint Track Management Capability to integrate Navy sensor information to significantly extend the defended area across the National Capital Region.
• These successful demonstrations further prove IBCS’ ability to unify sensors and shooters to decide the best action to out-pace and defeat complex threats.

Expert:

Rebecca Torzone, vice president and general manager, combat systems and mission readiness, Northrop Grumman: “IBCS is continuously showing its ability to unify all available sensors and shooters. Through the recent National Capital Region demonstrations, IBCS proved its capabilities in providing homeland defense against cruise missiles and other aerial threats. IBCS is ready now to take on the tomorrow’s threats.”

Details on IBCS:

IBCS is a revolutionary command control system that unifies current and future assets across the battlespace, regardless of source, service or domain. Through its modular, open and scalable architecture, it gives warfighters capabilities they never had before by fusing sensor data for a single, actionable picture of the full battlespace that enables rapid, informed decisions to optimize shooters. This capability extends the battlespace, giving warfighters more time to make decisions on how best to defeat threats. This system is the centerpiece of the U.S. Army’s modernization strategy for air and missile defense, supporting a multi-domain future and continued modernization of U.S. and Allied capabilities.

 

09 Oct 23. BAE Systems featured a prototype variation of the Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) at AUSA 2023. The AMPV Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (CUAS) prototype, built on the same proven chassis as the existing variants in the family of vehicles, includes External Mission Equipment Package (ExMEP) enhancements that demonstrate the rapid integration of future technologies and capabilities onto the platform. The prototype features the new ExMEP interchangeable top plate, which enhances the proven AMPV hull structure and provides flexibility to quickly integrate other mission equipment. This modular approach allows for the possibility of new turreted variants to the AMPV family of vehicles, to include CUAS. The CUAS prototype features the Moog Reconfigurable Integrated-weapons Platform (RIwP) turret, which is common to the U.S. Army’s Mobile Short Range Air Defense (M-SHORAD) system. The RIwP is a proven, modular, and scalable remote turret, which offers air defense, anti-armor, or multi-mission capabilities via precision medium-caliber and indirect fires. The CUAS variation also includes mission-ready command and control systems beyond what is available on the current AMPV fleet. “The Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle truly lays the foundation of the future of the battlefield for decades to come,” said Bill Sheehy, BAE Systems AMPV program director. “We designed these vehicles with modularity and flexibility, providing an adaptable and ready-for-growth platform. Showcasing the art of the possible with the ExMEP enhancement and CUAS capability at AUSA is just the beginning of opportunities beyond the current family of vehicles. This vehicle will continue to provide the support Soldiers need in battle, no matter the mission.” The AMPV program was awarded a full-rate production contract in August 2023. As the underpinning of the future for the Army and its allies, the AMPV provides significant improvements in power, mobility, interoperability, and survivability for Soldiers. The AMPV CUAS will be on display at booth 925.

 

09 Oct 23. Curtiss-Wright’s Defense Solutions Division announced that it is ideally positioned to meet increasing DoD requirements for high voltage (up to 750V) power on ground vehicles with its introduction of a high voltage turret drive stabilization system (HV TDSS) for new platform designs or for upgrading legacy motion control systems. High-voltage power can provide significant benefits to numerous next-generation U.S. ground vehicle programs, such as M1E3 Abrams Main Battle Tank Modernization, Mobile Protected Firepower (MPF) M10 Booker, Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA), Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) and XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle (formerly OMFV). Using high voltage systems helps to resolve power issues that result from increased turret size and weight. Another advantage of providing HV power on vehicles is the ability to share common converter, distribution, and power management technology across a range of vehicle sizes.

Curtiss-Wright’s new HV TDSS system converts, stores, and controls the platform’s existing continuous low voltage 28V systems to a voltage level up to 750V. The HV TDSS system is ideal for aiming and stabilizing turrets and for rapid direct drive architectures on mobile weapons systems. The system is designed for use in a wide range of applications, including medium caliber cannons and main battle tank turret drive and stabilization systems and high-speed motion control systems (e.g., active protection systems, optical tracking systems, and directed energy weapons).

The ability to provide high-voltage power on platforms is a rapidly growing requirement as high peak power is often needed to accelerate a high-inertia load – such as a turret or a weapons system – to a precise position in the shortest possible time. Previously, the delivery of short bursts of peak power came with an associated risk of damage to the vehicle’s electrical systems.

Curtiss-Wright’s new HV TDSS system eliminates the negative consequences of higher current systems. It leverages the continuous low-voltage power available on mobile platforms to enable the high-voltage energy buffering required for the higher voltage, short-burst peak power. It also allows a controlled flow of regenerative power back into the power architecture (e.g., energy storage or power source). The modular solution includes a DC/DC converter (converts 28V battery voltage up to 750V), an energy storage module (stores the power until needed), and a high-voltage motion controller (controls and delivers the electrical power to the drive systems). An optional load dump protector module protects the turret’s 28V electrical components according to MIL-STD-1275 and DEF STAN 61-5 and includes an inrush current limitation and reverse polarity protection.

The HV TDSS meets IEC 61508, IEC 61800, and ISO 6469 functional safety requirements. The Curtiss-Wright modular TDSS approach enables the customer to assemble the system exactly according to their requirements.

About Curtiss-Wright Turret Aiming and Stabilization Drive Systems

Curtiss-Wright turret aiming and stabilization drive systems are designed to deliver scalable functionality and power adaptability to ground vehicle designers and turret manufacturers. The modular TDSS design enables system integrators to select the exact aiming and stabilization solution that their platform requires – from a manually operated drive all the way up to a highly sophisticated, stabilized drive system – while streamlining enhancements and/or system modification for use on a different platform. The TDSS approach is significantly more cost-effective and flexible than traditional bespoke aiming and stabilization system alternatives. TDSS is designed to make it easy for system integrators to configure only the system that they require now while adding increasing levels of stabilization as their mission evolves. TDSS system components can be easily adapted for use on different ground vehicle turrets to meet dynamic program requirements including performance and precision.

Curtiss-Wright TDSS solutions deliver unmatched target location accuracy and turret stabilization while providing system integrators with an unprecedented level of freedom to define and deploy the exact solution they require, when they require it, with the ability to upgrade and add stabilization functionality as system requirements change. Because the TDSS uses standard system configurations, it speeds system development and enables programs to reach demonstration and production phases more rapidly. The use of preconfigured TDSS system components also reduces the time and costs associated with the requirements definition process.

About TDSS System Components and Configuration Levels

TDSS components include rotary gear drives, linear gear drives, motion controllers, gyroscopes, hand controllers, and system software.

About Curtiss-Wright Corporation

Curtiss-Wright Corporation (NYSE:CW) is a global integrated business that provides highly engineered products, solutions and services mainly to Aerospace & Defense markets, as well as critical technologies in demanding Commercial Power, Process and Industrial markets. We leverage a workforce of approximately 8,400 highly skilled employees who develop, design and build what we believe are the best engineered solutions to the markets we serve. Building on the heritage of Glenn Curtiss and the Wright brothers, Curtiss-Wright, headquartered in Davidson, North Carolina, has a long tradition of providing innovative solutions through trusted customer relationships. For more information, visit www.curtisswright.com.

 

09 Oct 23. Curtiss-Wright’s Defense Solutions Division showcased its latest rugged system solutions designed to equip our warfighters with new and future technologies to adapt to an ever-changing and complex environment at the AUSA 2023 Annual Meeting and Exposition, October 9-11, 2023. Live demonstrations and displays will showcase the latest products designed in compliance with the U.S. Army CCDC C5ISR Center’s CMOSS mandate and aligned with the Sensor Open Systems Architecture™ (SOSA) Technical Standard. Curtiss-Wright will highlight the warfighter benefits of a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) architecture, including interoperability and reduced size, weight and power (SWaP). Demonstrations will include CMOSS Mounted Form Factor (CMFF) hardware integrated with a VICTORY data bus, Mounted Mission Command, 360° SA capability, and A-PNT applications for Ground Combat Systems (GCS) platforms. We will also showcase our PacStar® family of secure wireless and network management products.

Fabric100 Suite of 3U and 6U OpenVPX Modules and Systems

Furthering its commitment to being a leading supplier of MOSA system solutions, Curtiss-Wright will present its new Fabric100™ family of extremely high-performance SOSA aligned processing engines. The Fabric100 Suite of 3U and 6U OpenVPX™ Modules and Systems provides system designers with a complete end-to-end ecosystem of high-speed 100G rugged OpenVPX modules and system components. At AUSA, Curtiss-Wright will highlight the first four introduced members of the Fabric100 family, including the 6U CHAMP-FX7 AMD Versal™ Adaptive SoC engine and CHAMP-XD4 6U VPX Intel® Xeon® D-2700 HPEC and Cognitive DSP Processor, and the 3U VPX3-1262 14-core Intel Raptor Lake Hybrid Processor single board computer (SBC) and VPX3-6826 switch module.

The Curtiss-Wright HMMWV Demonstration Vehicle

Curtiss-Wright’s U.S. Army M998 HMMWV demonstrator vehicle will host functional demonstrations of the latest MOSA-based CMOSS and SOSA aligned processing and tactical networking communications capabilities.

The integrated demo also highlights Curtiss-Wright’s leadership position in enabling the seamless sharing of information between platforms, connecting the battlefield with Secure Wireless Network Solutions. All of the live demonstrations featured on the HMMWV Demonstration Vehicle are connected over the vehicle’s network backbone using the IQ-Core® Software secure communications management solution.

HMMWV Demonstration Vehicle Highlights:

• A “Glide Path” Approach for Integrating SOSA Aligned Solutions on Ground Vehicles: The latest addition to Curtiss-Wright’s PacStar family of advanced communications solutions for the DoD is the new 5-Slot PacStar VPX Smart Chassis, which provides the highest level of SOSA alignment available today. The chassis is designed to fit into a SAVE enclosure alongside a PacStar 400-Series 4-Slot Smart Chassis comms system, facilitating the future transition to a full CMOSS/SOSA aligned hardware solution.
• CMOSS/SOSA Ruggedized Universal Software-Defined Radio (USRP): The SOSA aligned VPX3-E320 USRP Ruggedized Universal Software-Defined Radio module, the first fully rugged OpenVPX variant of technology partner NI’s popular Ettus Research USRP E320 SDR solution, will be shown running 3dB Labs SCEPTRE software to show live RF spectrum and demodulation.
• Low SWaP Command & Control Platform: With technology partner REDCOM, Curtiss-Wright will demonstrate rugged deployable communications featuring REDCOM Sigma® running on the PacStar Hybrid MOSA Solution, which houses both the new PacStar VPX Smart Chassis and PacStar 400-Series 4-Slot Smart Chassis in a single SAVE enclosure.  This compact single-platform solution will feature the REDCOM Sigma C2 Console unified interface for controlling voice, video, chat and radio interoperability on IP and RF Command and Control networks. The hybrid CMOSS OpenVPX chassis shows Curtiss-Wright CMOSS/SOSA modules integrated with existing PacStar 400-Series modules.
• Tactical Data Links for Battlefield Communications: Curtiss-Wright’s TCG HUNTR™ Tactical Data Link (TDL) Hub and Network Translator will be shown messaging CMFF, Link 16 and other TDLs that enhance situational awareness for vehicle platforms, with Curtiss-Wright’s TCG BOSS (Battlefield Operations Support System) running in the background. Simulation software providing visibility into real world links with air, sea and ground platforms on a local map will be shown running on the Parvus® DuraCOR® 8043 small form factor mission computer.
• A Deployable Network Backbone: The Parvus DuraNET® 3300 Cisco Switch provides network connectivity to nodes in the HMMWV Demonstrator Vehicle, connecting equipment and virtual machines. Three Parvus DuraCOR small form factor mission computers on the HMMWV will display data on Curtiss-Wright rugged AVDU (Advanced Video Display Unit) and GVDU (GVA (General Vehicle Architecture) Video Display Unit touchscreen displays.
• CMOSS/MOSA Solutions: Also featured on the HMMWV are the 3-slot 3U OpenVPX CMOSS/SOSA Starter Kit system and 5-slot and 8-slot CMOSS/SOSA Chassis. The CMOSS/SOSA Starter Kit hosts a VPX3-687 VICTORY Network Ethernet switch module, VPX3-673A A-PNT module with CSAC, IMU and GBGRAM Type-II SAASM/M-Code receiver, and VPX3-1260 Intel 9th Gen Xeon Processor single board computer (SBC). The 5-slot and 8-slot CMOSS/SOSA Chassis highlight Curtiss-Wright’s expansive CMOSS/MOSA product portfolio relative to ground vehicles, and its ability to support the highest functional density using natural convection cooling. Curtiss-Wright’s new CMOSS chassis are designed to meet the U.S. Army PEO Ground Combat Systems (GCS) Standardized A-Kit / Vehicle Envelope (SAVE), that provides standard internal mounting and physical interfaces for connecting CMOSS systems and radios to platforms. These fan-free chassis are ideal for use in Ground Combat Vehicle, and Tactical Wheeled Vehicle Platforms, as well as high-performance ground or rotary wing processing applications.
• Command Post Mobility: In the vehicle, a PacStar Smart Chassis will be on display with PacStar Secure Wireless Command Post Extension (SWCP-X), demonstrating secure wireless connectivity between command post vehicles as well as secure wireless LAN capability for local wireless user devices. This system is managed by IQ-Core Crypto Manager Software for secure vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications.
• IQ-Core Software: IQ-Core Software will be demonstrated running in dashboard mode, used to report network status and provide network management for embedded systems on the vehicle. IQ-Core Software features a GUI, which can display a map of the networked hardware on the vehicle. The GUI can display the network status of all the vehicle’s embedded systems with a simple, single pane of glass solution.

In a demonstration of Cloud-to-Tactical Edge Connectivity the PacStar Modular Data Center (MDC) will be shown providing a small form factor (SFF) integrated solution for cloud-native requirements at the edge. Curtiss-Wright will host enterprise cloud scalability and flexibility with secure “STIG-grade” Kubernetes containers provided in collaboration with Rancher Government Solutions (RGS). Integration of Secure Containers across the enterprise, from any commercial or government fixed data center to the tactical edge, introduces operational advantages for pre-deployment planning and configuration, task re-organization during deployment, C2 On-The-Move, and redeployment to home station. The PacStar MDC provides a menu of small compute, storage, and hyper-scale hardware options to support any range of operations and any mission. As a further example of Cloud-Native services on PacStar MDC, Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) capabilities from enterprise cloud to edge will be demonstrated in collaboration with ZScaler.

The TCG BOSS TDL testing, simulation, and terminal emulation solution will be shown emulating a MIDS-JTRS terminal, a Link 22 SNC, a VMF IDM, and a simulated TDL battlefield environment. Additionally, the TCG HUNTR TDL Gateway, which supports translation and forwarding of multiple tactical data links (TDL) – including Link 16, Link 22, JREAP, VMF, CESMO, and Cursor-on-Target – will be demonstrated with the TCG BOSS driving the simulation.

Also on display, as a compelling example of how Curtiss-Wright is participating in the move to electrification across a broad range of air, land, and sea platforms, will be the MAD-MAX Mechatronic Actuation and Turret Drive Stabilization Demonstrator, a collaboration demonstration from Curtiss-Wright’s Actuation Division. MAD-MAX features six different axis of motion, a Smart Actuator for door assist, rotary hinge actuation for lifting and lowering a ramp, and a Curtiss-Wright joystick to control the turret motor. Curtiss-Wright is supporting to drive the transition to electrical power currently underway across the Aerospace & Defense industry with new solutions that help accelerate the move away from fossil fuels and legacy hydro-mechanical system designs. Additionally, new high-voltage turret drive stabilization systems meet the rapidly growing requirements for increased performance and the ability to accelerate high-inertia loads to a precise position in the shortest possible time. These systems also enable common converter, distribution, and power management technology to be shared across a range of vehicle sizes.

About Curtiss-Wright Corporation

Curtiss-Wright Corporation (NYSE:CW) is a global integrated business that provides highly engineered products, solutions and services mainly to Aerospace & Defense markets, as well as critical technologies in demanding Commercial Power, Process and Industrial markets. We leverage a workforce of approximately 8,400 highly skilled employees who develop, design and build what we believe are the best engineered solutions to the markets we serve. Building on the heritage of Glenn Curtiss and the Wright brothers, Curtiss-Wright, headquartered in Davidson, North Carolina, has a long tradition of providing innovative solutions through trusted customer relationships. For more information, visit www.curtisswright.com.

 

09 Oct 23. General Micro Systems (GMS) Creates Multi-Function Rugged, Daisy-Chained, High-Definition Thunderbolt 4 Portable Rugged Displays with Touch, NVIS, Storage and PCI Express I/O

Using Thunderbolt™ 4 technology from Apple® and Intel®, GMS re-invents the rugged display.

General Micro Systems (GMS) this week will show off innovation that re-invents the rugged display using open-standard Thunderbolt™ 4 technology. The X9 Spider Rugged Thunderbolt Display, the market’s lightest 1-inch thin, mobile-ready multi-function touchscreen display, is available today in 12-, 17-, 24- or 36-inch sizes, in standard and high-definition resolution. Using Thunderbolt 4 technology developed by Apple® and Intel® allows the display to be connected by an exceptionally thin single copper or fiber optic cable up to 50m, which also powers the display and all its features. The display can be daisy-chained to expand to multiple independent displays, while acting as a plug-in peripheral appliance for the main host computer by adding COTS M.2 add-in I/O like software-defined radio (SDR) or GPS, or a removable SSD storage drive.

The X9 Spider Rugged Thunderbolt Display enables military and commercial system designers to rethink the display as more than just an output device. For the 12- and 17-inch versions, displays can function as “manpack” portable tablets, usable by dismounted soldiers/Marines or first responders. GMS patent-pending LightBolt™ cables using Thunderbolt 4 technology provide incredible freedom to use the display separately but distantly tethered to the host computer, which may be in a Molle manpack or on a vehicle at-the-halt. Mobile features include an optional wide-angle camera for F2F conferencing between front-line squads and the forward operating base (FOB), and versions with lightweight carbon fiber frames for easy hand holding. Carbon fiber provides superior and even cooling and is one-fifth (80 percent less) the weight of metal displays. Additionally, the X9 Spider Rugged Thunderbolt Display costs around $10,000, less than one-third the price of competing displays.

When is a display more than just a visual output device?

“GMS’ military-grade LCD technology gives us the lightest, brightest and most full-featured display anywhere in the market,” said Ben Sharfi, CEO and chief architect, GMS. “But what makes our display truly innovative is how Thunderbolt 4 technology lets us daisy chain multiple displays together—each with their own video feed; add internal I/O like MIL-STD-1553; give the user a convenient 8TB removable drive right on the display itself; include a wide-angle camera for F2F interaction, and power the whole display with the same cable that feeds it video.”

Never before incorporated into a rugged display, Thunderbolt also includes PCI Express, the “data bus” used internally in the host computer. This puts any I/O or storage device installed in the display’s two M.2 sites right on the bus as if they were in the host computer. Placing them in the display eases wiring, allows convenient cable disassembly for plug-in peripherals like audio headsets and push-to-talk, and brings radio electronics to the forefront and away from possible EMI sources while allowing antennas to be conveniently mounted right on the display. Having a local storage drive in the display simplifies the user interface by allowing mission profile changes, data removal and system declassification using a removable M.2 2280 storage drive.

For comparison, competing smart displays without Thunderbolt connectivity rely on networks, such as 1 Gigabit/s Ethernet over copper cable. Thunderbolt technology is 40 Gigabits/s—40 times faster—and has no network overhead. With a thinner copper or fiber optic cable, data between the display and the host is 40 times faster with lower latency. The cable is also lighter—a tremendous weight savings on long runs in aircraft or ships.

The X9 Rugged Thunderbolt Display also reduces cabling and wiring with up to 100W of power sent to the display using the same data cable, eliminating a separate power source and cable. The GMS patent-pending LightBolt cable even provides power over a fiber optic cable, up to 50m. Other features include resistive touch screen compatible with gloves, resolutions from standard to high definition, each supported with GMS’s “boot kick” glass, anti-reflective/anti-glare coatings, water resistant coating, and NVIS night vision support with special GMS backlight controls. A GMS-customizable 10-button keypad allows program-specific functions.

“Beyond all of the incredible specs built into these displays, there are really only a few key takeaways,” Sharfi said. “First, Thunderbolt gives us never-before-imagined capabilities in rugged displays—and we are using these to the fullest. Two, this display allows designers to rethink their system architecture where the display does so much more. And last: only GMS has this—we continue to look at the best COTS technology and will always bring it to the battlefield first.”

The display integrates flawlessly with the rest of the GMS X9 Spider family of rugged, open distributed computing architecture (DCA) small form factor systems designed to reduce the development barriers to rugged high-performance computing, high-definition video, sensor processing, AI, battlefield edge processing, storage, display and intelligent I/O.

Much more than an average ruggedized panel

Beyond the exceptional ruggedization with MIL-SPEC features—the hallmarks of all GMS displays—the X9 Spider Rugged Thunderbolt Display brings unparalleled value to systems with:

• Multiple displays can be daisy-chained from a single cable
• Portable hand-held (12-, 17-inch) or panel mount
• 1-inch thick, with carbon fiber option for up to 80% weight savings
• Lower price point compared with smart displays: up to 60% less
• High-definition options, with dual-mode backlights for daylight readability and superior low-light NVIS viewing
• Variety of filters and coatings for all environments: sunlight anti-glare to rain-shedding
• Resistive touchscreen, with PCAP option
• Add-in Thunderbolt 4 I/O on M.2 modules
• Removable M.2 NVMe SSD up to 8TB
• USB 3.2 ports, plus audio and push-to-talk feature
• Single-cable video, data and power, copper or fiber
• Built-in wide angle, ultra-low light camera for F2F video
• GMS-customizable keypad for user-defined capabilities
• A fully EMI-shielded resistive touchscreen for glove and/or stylus operation
• Ultra-rugged “boot kick” glass for a virtually unbreakable screen
• GMS SecureDNA™ cyber security sanitize, including host’s BIOS and storage

The display supports mounting options ranging from VESA and panel/surface, to portable/handheld, including full customization options to meet any need. Plus, the lightweight 12-inch display version expands capabilities to suit dismounted soldier/marine operations. Carbon fiber is lighter than metals, like aluminum. In the X9 Display, it can also save up to 80% of the weight while providing superior cooling by spreading the heat across the microscopic carbon strands.

The dual Thunderbolt 4 ports support daisy chains of up to 4 displays such as three 4K 60Hz monitors, two 4K 120Hz monitors, or four HD 1080p monitors. By connecting to an X9 Spider Mission Computer, Thunderbolt 4 provides power plus 40 Gbps of data, including PCIe Gen 3, DisplayPort video, 10 Gbps Thunderbolt networking and USB. The display may be powered directly from the host up to 50 meters away or powered with external +20 VDC power via a Smart Power™ (patent pending) connector for safe, ultra-low EMI and IP67 waterproof operation. An optional MIL-STD-1275 power supply is available, with optional 50ms hold-up.

The built-in, removable M.2 2280 storage drive is suitable for mission planning, tactical maps, data recorder applications, and the declassification of the entire X9 distributed computing architecture (DCA) system, including the host. Add-in I/O on a separate M.2 3042 module brings local functions such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS and APNT. I/O connectors (such as for antennas) can be accommodated into the display chassis.

Displays built for harsh, high-performance environments

All X9 rugged display products support optional display coatings to maximize the screen readability and clarity in wet, bright or multi-light source environments. Coatings include anti-reflective (AR), anti-glare (AG), polarizer and water-rejection options. The X9 Spider Rugged Thunderbolt Display optionally supports Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) MIL-STD-3009 to reduce eye strain in applications where night vision glasses are used. GMS has created dual backlight arrays, one for ultra brightness, and a second for superior NVIS stealth. A unique “COV” (Cover) button instantly lowers the LCD and keys backlights to a pre-programmed, ultra-low level for surveillance environments.

 

12 Oct 23. Custom Power at AUSA.

Battery packs are used in various military applications ranging from tactical drone surveillance to communication devices. As with any mission-critical equipment, the battery solutions used to power these devices must be reliable, durable and safe.

The increasing demands of technological advancements in military devices require a battery pack manufacturer that can meet expectations and provide innovative solutions. Choosing the right battery pack manufacturer is crucial to ensure the success of your critical military devices.

Factors When Choosing A Military Manufacturing Partner

An expert manufacturing partner plays a key role in developing military battery packs with the high-performance capabilities needed for equipment in the defense field. Here are a few factors you need to consider when choosing a battery pack manufacturer for military devices:

Quality Certifications

The weight of the missions conducted by the military calls for every product manufactured to meet industry quality standards. Quality certifications offer more than a partner’s promise to deliver a certain level of quality — they enable you to ensure the manufacturer’s consistency in developing high-quality products. The military manufacturing partner you choose should have quality certifications,such as the AS9100, which is mandatory for any developer in the defense industry.

Military Device Product Experience

Continuing advancements in military equipment call for innovative solutions that aid a mission’s success. It is best to choose a manufacturing partner with years of experience specializing in military device products. They have the knowledge and expertise to engineer reliable military battery packs that solve your unique issues. Whether you want compact or long-lasting lithium battery solutions, an experienced developer can produce a custom battery suiting your needs.

Reliability And Safety

It is essential to choose a partner that manufactures military device battery solutions that consistently perform as intended in various conditions. The devices must be reliable for use in critical military applications. Moreover, the developer must adhere to the safety requirements for manufacturing military battery packs. Learn about the partner’s measures to ensure product safety and whether they follow the regulatory requirements or go above and beyond what is mandatory.

Expectations And Collaboration

Working with military manufacturing partners requires a clear outline of expectations and good collaboration throughout the process to optimize demands and ensure satisfaction. Here are some aspects of having an excellent partnership:

• Trust: Trust is crucial for an effective partnership and facilitates developing and producing military device battery solutions that meet your needs. Building trust involves consistently meeting specific expectations and targets.
• Communication: A key component to a successful collaboration is good communication during all stages. A manufacturer can better align their work with your goals with adequate and clear communication.
• Industry knowledge: A manufacturer with industry knowledge enhances your collaboration with information sharing, coordinated decision-making and innovative solutions.

Military Device Engineering Requirements

Military battery packs power numerous devices crucial to the success of vital missions. Whether used as a primary power source or for backup, these batteries are an essential design feature for applications such as military armored vehicles, combat communication radios and drones. Military battery solutions are engineered to offer high performance in the harsh environments they are used in.

Due to their significance, military battery packs must adhere to strict engineering requirements to ensure safety, reliability and durability. Engineers must put the products they develop through various tests, such as thermal testing, to validate their performance in different conditions.

Benefits Of Working With Custom Power For Military Power Solutions

Custom Power specializes in designing and manufacturing high-performing and reliable military device battery solutions. We handle every step of manufacturing a product that meets your expectations. Here are a few benefits of choosing Custom Power as your military manufacturing partner:

• Expertise: Our multi discipline expertise enables us to tackle various aspects of developing military batteries and satisfy the most critical and demanding requirements.
• Certification: We are certified to AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015, showing our dedication to maintaining quality and consistently providing products that meet customers’ specifications.
• Testing: All our custom batteries are tested throughout different stages to ensure quality and dependability. During testing, we mimic the temperatures the devices are used in, which is especially crucial for military applications.

 

10 Oct 23. Kymeta Launches First Multi-Orbit, On-the-Move Flat-Panel Antenna for Military Users Building upon proven expertise in providing resilient communications for demanding military environments, the Kymeta Osprey TM u8 HGL, a hybrid GEO-LEO terminal, will be commercially available in early Q1 2024 Redmond, WA — October 10, 2023 – World-leading flat-panel satellite antenna company, Kymeta (www.kymetacorp.com), announced today at AUSA 2023 Annual Meeting and Exposition the launch of the Osprey u8 HGL, a hybrid geostationary/low Earth orbit (GEO/LEO) terminal purpose-built for military users. Leveraging Eutelsat Group’s (formally known as OneWeb) LEO satellite network, the Osprey u8 HGL is a complete, customizable solution that can be easily mounted on a wide array of military vehicles and vessels, providing connectivity on-the-move. This marks the first commercially available multi-orbit terminal and the first multi-orbit terminal on Eutelsat Group’s LEO network. Kymeta is taking orders now, with the first shipments set to go out in early Q1 2024. This new hybrid solution builds upon Kymeta’s existing portfolio of products and expertise. Kymeta’s military-focused Osprey u8 GEO terminal was launched in March 2022 and is currently in use by multiple branches of the United States Department of Defense in ongoing conflicts. In January 2023, Kymeta launched the Hawk™ u8 LEO, followed closely by the Peregrine™ u8 LEO for maritime customers in March, which have both been type approved on the LEO network, with shipments going out daily to global customers. With the Osprey u8 HGL, Kymeta will deliver truly resilient, auto[1]PACE ready communications for the armed forces to meet the demands of challenging and rugged military environments. The multi-orbit capabilities of the Osprey u8 HGL will offer even greater availability, while being durable, highly customizable, low power, low visibility, and easy to use, requiring no satcom expertise. “In today’s modern military environments, connectivity on the move has cemented itself as one of the critical keys to success,” said Walter Berger, President and Co-CEO, Kymeta. “More than any sector, the military demands truly reliable, flexible, and durable on-the-move communications to enable its operational and training requirements. Our new terminal delivers military customers the resilient communications they need by allowing them to easily switch between LEO and GEO multi[1]orbit networks, always ensuring availability and redundancy. With the collaboration of both Eutelsat and OneWeb, now Eutelsat Group, we’re proud to continue our proven track record with the military to provide innovative, market-leading solutions.” Chris Moore, retired 2* RAF Officer and VP Defence & Security at Eutelsat OneWeb added, “Each orbit has its unique strengths, so if you combine LEO and GEO together, you get the benefits of both, especially if you create a multi-layered architecture to make them work together. It’s this that will prove invaluable to armed forces, with users being able to route their data via the most optimal means. “By partnering with Kymeta and its innovative terminal solutions like the Osprey u8 HGL, we can provide militaries with fast, high bandwidth and low latency connectivity – wherever they are in the world.” “The Kymeta Osprey u8 HGL multi-orbit on-the-move antenna is a leap forward in innovation, offering warfighters in military environments a lifeline when no other communications source might be available,” said Kevin Steen, CEO of OneWeb Technologies the U.S. proxy of Eutelsat OneWeb. “We are proud to put this innovative new LEO-GEO multi-orbit solution in the hands of our U.S. military customers, empowering them with unmatched, truly reliable and resilient global connectivity capabilities.” Attendees of the upcoming AUSA 2023 Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, DC on October 9-11 are encouraged to visit booth #4256 to see the Osprey u8 HGL in person and to speak with a member of the Kymeta team. About Kymeta Kymeta is the industry leader in flat panel satellite antennas, providing purpose-built solutions across a variety of enterprise and military applications and unlocking the commercial value of space to address the vast, unmet demand for ubiquitous broadband and truly mobile connectivity for customers around the world. Its innovative metasurface technology, coupled with a software-first approach, delivers the first commercially available, metamaterial-based and electronically steered flat panel satellite antenna. Kymeta’s low-cost, low power and high throughput solutions make it easy to connect on the move or while stationary – for any vehicle, vessel, aircraft, or fixed platform – enabling industries on earth to transform their operations by harnessing capacity in space. Kymeta is a privately held company based in Redmond, Washington. For more information, visit kymetacorp.co

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