DVD NEWS

18 Sept 24. State-of-the-art armoured vehicle fleet supported under new contract.

Thousands of UK military land vehicles will be maintained under a new £71m contract, supporting the government’s growth mission by creating hundreds of jobs.

The contract award to NP Aerospace was announced during the British Army’s Defence Vehicle Dynamic (DVD) event taking place at the vehicle testing grounds at Millbrook.

Called the Conventional Vehicle Systems Spares and Post Design Services (CVSSP), the contract will be for spares and post design services for a range of legacy utility and combat vehicles and ancillary equipment, helping to create and sustain around 100 skilled jobs in Coventry.

The contract will help to extend the life of the entire Land Rover fleet; Pinzgauer fleet; protected Land Rover; RWMIK and the Lightweight Trailer fleet. This will deliver greater value for money and fill the gaps of new vehicle programmes being delivered, maintaining capability in the interim.

The contract will help to maintain a fleet of more than 15,000 land vehicles for the next 4 years by consolidating former individual contracts, providing a new single point of contact. The CVSSP contract will ensure that vehicle fleet availability is maintained at the required levels to meet operational and training needs.

Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle, said:

We will deliver a state-of-the-art combat vehicle fleet, ensuring our soldiers are equipped with cutting-edge firepower, protection, and mobility.

This new contract will help to secure the future of these crucial capabilities, streamlining the processes involved in repairs and upgrades, while boosting UK economic growth at the same time.

Also at DVD, the British Army’s future fleet of modern armoured vehicles – Ajax, Boxer and Challenger 3 – have been pictured together side-by-side for the first time. With more than 1,300 of the vehicles due for delivery before the end of the decade, they will provide world-leading reconnaissance, secured armoured transport, and the UK’s most lethal ever tank.

The three types of armoured vehicles on display today will make up the Brigade Combat Teams of the future, providing the British Army with enhanced fighting power.

With more than £11 billion investment, the pipeline of new armoured fighting vehicles is creating jobs, with Boxer alone protecting 400 jobs in the West Midlands, North East Wales and sustaining up to 1,000 nationally.

Brigadier Matt Wilkinson from the Vehicle Support Team at Defence, Equipment and Support, said:

We have a long-standing relationship with NP Aerospace, and I’m delighted that we are able to continue this partnership. Not only does it provide the best possible service to the Armed Forces, but it also aligns with the MOD’s future Land Industrial Strategy initiatives, including an evolution to Land Integrated Operating Services. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

 

18 Sep 24. Thales is exhibiting a number of products at DVD

Thales RapidRanger

Thales is showing the RapidRanger, mounted on the VAMTAC vehicle is a unique lightweight, vehicle based, highly automated system capable of delivering a rapid reaction response to threats from the air or the ground. The United Kingdom plans to procure VAMTAC Rapid Ranger 4×4 air-defence vehicles to replace Stormer tracked self-propelled high-velocity missile (SP-HVM) systems donated to Ukraine. RapidRanger can be integrated into a network enabled force structure and be coordinated with Early Warning Command and Control (C2) systems, or it can operate in an autonomous mode for specific missions.

When using the StarStreak missile with its extremely fast time of flight, a variety of threats can be defeated from head on or fast crossing aerial targets, to targets such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and helicopters. When used with the LMM a capability is provided to defeat surface targets such as Light Armoured Vehicles (LAVs), trucks and fixed installations and aerial targets such as UAVs. Both missiles utilise the Thales laser beam riding guidance system. With the increasing need for Force Protection against conventional and asymmetric threats, RapidRanger provides the multi-mission effects demanded by modern forces. The system weighs less than 500 kg, and being of modular design, can be fitted to many types of wheeled or tracked vehicles. The RapidRanger open architecture enables the integration of a range of missiles from the highly effective StarStreak Air Defence Missile

to anti-armour missiles and rockets. The RapidRanger is designed to include an integral 360° surveillance sensor – either a passive Infra Red Search and Track (IRST) or integrated Surveillance and Track Radar which provides the RapidRanger with completely autonomous system operation.

ForceShield

ForceShield is the Thales combat-proven ground based air defence solutions, designed to protect Forces, citizens and vital assets against increasingly diverse law layer threats – from low altitude air threats such as UAS to helicopters, fighter ground attacks or cruise…

STARStreak

StarStreak High Velocity Missile is designed to provide close air defence against conventional air threats such as fixed wing fighters and late unmasking helicopter targets.

Lightweight Multirole Missile (LMM)

LMM is a lightweight, precision strike multirole missile designed to be fired from a variety of tactical platforms on Land, Sea and Air against a wide range of conventional and asymmetric threats.

Thales EagleShield Suite

The Thales C-UAS EagleShield suite is an integrated nano, micro, mini and small drone countermeasures solution to protect and secure civil and military sites – such as stadiums, airports, critical infrastructures (eg. oil & gas), large cities, high visibility events (e.g: Bastille Day, G7, Olympic Games, World Cup) and military airbases. It provides a modular and graduated, context-sensitive response to the threat of unmanned systems flying in the airspace. It also provides the adequate and graduated answer to dangerous and malicious drone threats.  It is an open and integrated system providing an enhanced and unified drone situational awareness based on a multi-sensor and effector ecosystem allowing the detection, identification, classification and neutralisation of unfriendly drones. It is compliant with severe operational and regulatory constraints both in military/civilian environments, as well as with national and international laws and regulations.  The EagleShield suite is built around a digital C-UAS Command & Control post. This solution is scalable in terms of sensors, effectors and connection to other systems, performing sensor fusion, radio frequency direction finders and night and day cameras. It offers different types of responses, including soft kill and/or hard kill adapted to the criticality of the analysed threat and to the national and international laws and regulations. It can interoperate with a Thales or other C2 systems (e.g. Air Operation, Air Defense, ATM and UTM systems) at similar, lower or higher security classification level.  As scalable and cyber secured open architecture solution, EagleShield Suite can integrate different types of sensors and effectors. Thales also showed two new C-UAS systems, one laser-based system the other an RF-defeat system. Stabilised weapon and sighting system Auto-tracker Slew-to-Cue capability Fire Control System BMS connectivity Operated from under armour Manual reversionary mode Electrical and Mechanical Safety Fire Inhibit Zones (FIZ) Built in Test (BIT) Zero vehicle intrusion Low profile/ lightweight Simple installation Three interchangeable weapon calibres Built in growth Low depression/ high elevation angles Commonality with Enforcer

 

18 Sept 24. OpenWorks the Newcastle based technology company were exhibiting on the Saab Stand at DVD.

OpenWorksVision Flex

Vision Flex provides the highest performance surveillance, tracking and classification capability available, for use on static, mobile and un-manned systems. Vision Flex cameras are highly configurable and can be used with built-in twin-AI modules or 3rd Party classifiers and trackers.

Vision Flex is easy to integrate through standard interfaces and has a range of plug-and-play optical modules and upgrades to allow it to be configured easily to suit each mission or site.

HD daylight EO and cooled thermal MWIR sensors are available, from 275mm to 900mm focal length, allowing the ideal sensor to be selected and cost minimised.

Autonomous operation is made possible with AI modules embedded inside the optical units, offering fast AI target classification, tracking and false alarm rejection. AI built into both EO and IR units allows simultaneous Edge-AI processing.

 

18 Sept 24. HENSOLDT is exhibiting their range of products at DVD. BATTLESPASCEC Editor, Julian Nettlefold interviewed Stirling Tatchell from Hensoldt UK about their DVD Lineup. This interview can be seen on the BATTLESPACE website. HENSOLDT showed their product line of High-

HENSOLDT ZF4-MKO: Precision and Reliability

The HENSOLDT ZF4-MKO, our combat-proven 4X optic, is now available in a slim and lightweight design. This advanced optic features a milled-in direct interface for the piggybacked Aimpoint ACRO red dot, eliminating the need for additional screws or adapter plates and ensuring the lowest possible profile. Designed for modern operational needs, the ZF4-MKO offers ergonomic use in combination with night vision goggles (NVGs), providing easy handling and maximum speed in dynamic situations without unnecessary magnification adjustments.

Key Features of the ZF4-MKO:

• Ergonomic design optimised for NVG compatibility.
• Quick handling and maximum speed in high-pressure scenarios.
• Dual optical components for superior performance in close to medium-range engagements.
• Exceptional optical clarity, outstanding field of view, and edge-to-edge sharpness.

With an overall length of just 135 mm and a weight of under 550 grams, the ZF4-MKO delivers the confidence needed in high-stress situations. It is ideally suited for both day and night operations and covers a wide range of military applications.

HENSOLDT IRV-MR: Advanced Thermal Imaging

The enhanced operational capabilities of the HENSOLDT IRV-MR offer an uncooled thermal clip-on system engineered for superior performance in the most demanding environments. This cutting-edge device is designed with a highly compact and lightweight form factor, ensuring ease of use without compromising functionality.

The IRV-MR features a straightforward operating concept with a central control panel for intuitive adjustments. It is equipped with a video output for external monitors and is ready for action in less than four seconds. The battery magazine system allows for quick and secure battery changes, even in low-light or no-light scenarios, ensuring you remain operationally ready.

Key Features of the IRV-MR:

• Starting magnification at 1x, with memory for up to 20 reticles at 1x, 2x, and 4x magnification.
• Inline optical design with a focus range from 10 meters to infinity for remarkable clarity.
• A wide field of view (10.4° x 7.8°) covering 184 x 138 meters at a 1000-meter distance.
• Advanced LWIR sensor technology (12μm, 640×480 resolution, 60Hz refresh rate) for crisp, shutterless imaging on a 640×480 RGB OLED screen.
• Image enhancement features include cant highlighting, colourisation, and human hotspot detection.
• Detection range of up to 1880 meters and recognition range of 650 meters.
• Compact dimensions (132 x 80 x 76 mm) and weight (less than 550 grams).
• Supports various battery types with a runtime of at least 6.5 hours at 21°C under medium brightness.
• Includes an interface port for external power, USB digital video, wired remote control, and firmware updates, with optional Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity.

Designed to meet the rigorous standards of NATO’s D14 Handbook 2018 for thermal weapon sight performance tests, the HENSOLDT IRV-MR is a reliable companion for critical missions, offering exceptional thermal imaging capabilities day or night.

While this article highlights the ZF4-MKO and IRV-MR, HENSOLDT Optronics, fully supported by HENSOLDT UK, offers a wide range of advanced solutions. To discover more, visit us at Booth SP16 at DVD 2024.

 

18 Sept 24. Supacat is out in force at DVD with no less than 10 vehicles on display across the DVD exhibits.

Supacat launched two defence vehicles at DVD2024. The first of these is a multi-role tactical light mobility vehicle (LMV) for light role and Very High Readiness forces. The second vehicle is a new addition to the High Mobility Transporter (HMT) family, with a 4-person armoured closed cab platform, giving it the flexibility to fulfil a wide range of roles in contested environments in an age when armed forces globally look to reduce numbers of diverse vehicle types by adoption of family fleets and benefit from reduced though life support costs.

Both new generation vehicle systems – which will be viewable on Stand OR-24a at DVD 2024 – come in the wake of Supacat (part of the SC Group)’s order last year by the UK MOD of seventy of their high mobility transports (400 series).

The Supacat Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) combines highly proven ubiquitous Toyota automotive components with a bespoke chassis and battle-tested ‘combat cell’ to deliver a world class high mobility platform with unrivalled versatility and resilience for the battlefield. Over 40 different operational roles have been identified for the four or six-wheel mobility platform, making it ideal for the widest range of light roles on the battlefield, developed especially for use by Very High Readiness troops around the world.

As the British Army places ever greater importance on the mobility and potency of its resources and assets, the LMV has been developed to meet key requirements for strategic mobility, class-leading payload and suitability for internal loading in CH47, C130, A400M and C17. The LMV is manufactured in both 4×4 and 6×6 configurations to suit different roles whilst maintaining extremely high levels of commonality across the family of vehicles – offering a payload of up to 3200 kg, this allows for specialist variants such as Ambulance and Mortar which require significantly higher payload/space requirements, without adding other vehicle types within a deployed fleet and adding to the logistic burden.

Adding simplicity to LMV’s logistic and maintenance demand, it uses already extensively tested Toyota automotive components that have been proven to deliver legendary reliability on all continents and climates globally whilst in full compliance with NATO multifuel policy.  The LMV chassis structure has been developed to deliver an optimum mass to strength ratio providing unbeatable payloads in comparison to its competitors. This chassis is a dedicated design rather than a modified COTS chassis, and achieves full STANAG compliance for recovery, tie-down and under sling loads without compromise over a full-service life.

The Combat cell is highly modular allowing numerous configurations for different roles. The base combat cell provides a ROPS structure with seating for a crew of 4 (5th percentile Female to 95th percentile Male) in a 2+2 configuration and is equipped with a crew served main weapon (GPMG, HMG, GMG) mounted on a 360° slewing ring and commander’s weapon (GPMG) on a dash mounted swing arm. Space is allocated for customer specified communications/ECM equipment (with 24V DC power) and personal equipment. The rear of the cell forms a load bed for transport of vehicle CES and mission specific equipment. The Combat cell can be fitted with applique blast and ballistic protection kits and with environmental covers to allowing users to balance protection/mobility against changing threat levels in a range of climatic conditions.

Key benefits include:

• Excellent strategic mobility – as well as transportable by fixed wing cargo aircraft for rapid deployment globally, the LMV can be loaded internally in CH47 and underslung from Merlin providing tactical mobility on the battlefield
• Class leading tactical mobility with a power to weight ratio of 32kW/t, long travel front suspension and weight compensating air bag rear suspension with optimised roll geometry for safe on and offroad performance
• Purpose designed chassis provides a high payload and dedicated recovery/under sling points allowing structural optimisation around military requirements to minimise weight and through life support demands
• Dedicated floor structure which can be manufactured from different material grades and thickness to meet a range of protection requirements
• The Combat Cell provides roll-over protection that exceed applicable commercial and military standards, while meeting the expected UK requirement to accommodate crew within the UK 5th percentile Female to 95th percentile Male occupants size range

In the development of the LMV, Supacat has engaged with Yorkshire-based ProSpeed Motorsport Ltd to develop the LMV’s chassis based on a 4×4 version of their HILOAD chassis, as well as developing a protected floor system and the interfaces between the chassis, floor and Combat Cell.

The Combat Cell has been developed by Armoured Car Systems in Bavaria, Germany, and is an optimised version of the Combat Cell fitted to its ENOK vehicle, currently in production for Bundeswehr, thus retaining the modularity and manufacturing process, with geometrical changes to suit the LMV.

Comments from the Managing Director of ProSpeed, Olly Marshall: “Supacat’s LMV Tactical represents a successful symbiosis of three proven platforms. Leveraging Toyota’s globally renowned and best in class supported COTS platform, militarised in combination with the world’s first and only true 5-tonne 4×4 solution of its kind in HILOAD, provides an unbeatable foundation to build from. An innovative and lightweight armoured floor and ACS combat cell complete what is a lightweight, infinitely adaptable to role and cost-effective light vehicle solution.”

The second system being unveiled at DVD2024 is Supacat’s Armoured Closed Cab (ACC) HMT, which is specifically designed to support UK MOD’s Land Mobility Programme’s fleet reduction to 15 core platform chassis types or less by 2030.

Building on the inherent modularity of the HMT common base platform, this variant provides high levels of crew protection while maintaining sub-system commonality with other HMT variants, including the UK MoD’s Jackal and Coyote. Its closed cab demonstrates the benefits of a modular design, enabling the spiral development of a new capability requirement on an in-service platform.

The 4-person cab provides integral blast and ballistic protection (capability on request), with Human Factors being an important consideration during the development process to provide a safe and comfortable operating environment for 5th percentile Female to 95th percentile Male occupants.

The ACC HMT has been optimised as a mobility platform for complex mission systems, to be crewed by Commander, Driver and two Mission System Operators. The vehicle is compliant with Generic Vehicle Architecture requirements, supporting the electrical and electronic integration of a range of complex Mission Systems. The vehicle has a payload capacity of circa 4000 kg with integrated blast and ballistic armour, with the chassis load bed designed to allow easy physical integration of Mission Systems.

The ACC HMT builds on the HMT’s world class reputation to provide the enhanced protection, payload and mobility required on the modern battlefield. Being able to operate in the same tactical environment as light troops means that organic support can be deployed to the correct place on the battlefield to maximise the safety and effectiveness of troops. Typical roles for the ACC HMT include Ground Based Air Defence, Battle Group Organic Anti-Armour, Ambulance, Recovery Vehicle or Troop carrier.

As a member of the HMT family of vehicles, there are numerous advantages carried forward, including operationally proven reliability and ease of maintenance, a reduced operator and maintainer training burden on introduction to service and use of spare parts common across existing HMT fleets. This ensures that the ACC HMT is able to deliver a very different capability without the need to increase the breadth of the held fleet, reducing the impact on materiel inventory of introducing new capability, whilst supporting the UK MoD’s Land Mobility Programme stated goal of reducing the British Army’s fleet to 15 core platforms or less by 2030.

Phil Applegarth, of Supacat, said: “Supacat has been privileged to partner with the British Army, and other armies around the world, in the development of what we are confident are the most versatile, rugged and interchangeable military vehicle platforms in the world.

“Our new Light Mobility Vehicle – Tactical (LMV-T) is the latest edition to the Supacat range, designed specifically with special forces and VHR Units in mind, fulfilling a ‘fly and drive’ capability, with its low weight and compact design enabling tactical loading into transporter aircraft systems whilst maintaining excellent payload capacity.

“Meanwhile, as UK MOD and other defence forces look to rationalise their fleets to achieve great modularity and cost control, our Armoured Closed Cab (ACC) HMT has the potential to revolutionise the army’s ability to sustain operations with much reduced burden on logistics, maintenance and cost. At the heart of our design for both systems has been MOD’s intent under its Land Industrial Strategy to simplify logistics whilst increasing effectiveness. We very much look forward to showcasing both platforms to our customers on Stand OR-24a today/tomorrow.”

 

18 Sept 24. BATTLESPACE Editor Julian Nettlefold had great pleasure in experiencing his first ride in the GM Defense LLC, Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV) – a light and agile all-terrain troop carrier intended to transport a nine-Soldier infantry squad and their equipment. The performance of the ISV was better than expected, it climbed effortlessly over the Off Road course including the Rock Run and other obstacles, giving very quick pick up accelerating away from the rough terrain. Our driver told us that the ISV training can be achieved in less than 3 days. The interior provides plenty of space for soldiers and equipment alike. The Editor looks forward to getting behind the wheel in due course!

During DSEI 2023. GM Defense LLC, a subsidiary of General Motors (GM), and NP Aerospace signed a collaborative Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop cooperative research and development, post-production support, and global logistics and sustainment for integrated vehicles, power and propulsion, autonomy and connectivity, fuel cell, power generation, system integration and platform integration.

The MOU enables GM Defense to deliver military solutions more effectively, like the light and agile ISV, to global defense and government customers. Based on the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 midsize truck architecture, the ISV features 90 percent commercial-off-the-shelf parts, including Chevrolet Performance components, adapted to meet U.S. Army requirements. GM Defense expanded on the ISV program of record to develop the ISV Family of Vehicles, which includes variants designed to support diverse mission use cases and meet future customer demand. The business is also developing a purpose-built Heavy-Duty armored Sport Utility Vehicle (HD SUV) solution, an armored HD architecture that is gaining interest among international defense and government customers to meet global protection missions.

“NP Aerospace has a proven track record and expertise that complements GM Defense,” said Steve duMont, GM Defense president. “This collaboration will help position our commercial-based solutions, including the ISV and HD SUV, to global militaries while aligning our capabilities to meet the needs of the UK Ministry of Defence’s Land Industrial Strategy.”

“Or collaboration with GM Defense is very exciting as it diversifies our product and technology offering established through the UK MoD protected mobility fleet contract and expands our vehicle armour and engineering capabilities into North America,” said James Kempston. “We are pleased to work with a business with such a long legacy in defense and look forward to partnering in expanding their offerings globally.”

The MOU formalizes GM Defense’s commitment to pursue opportunities in the UK for GM Defense, which leverages the advanced commercial technologies and investments of its parent company, General Motors, to transition global customers to a more electric, autonomous and connected future. The collaboration comes after GM Defense recently announced the incorporation of GM Defense Canada and the formation of GM Defense International last year.

The MOU expands the range of vehicles covered via NP Aerospace’s Vehicle Systems, Services and Spares Business. Current contracts include the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) Protected Mobility Engineering Technical Support contract and the Canadian Department of National Defence Land Equipment Program – Engineering Technical Support Services Contract.

GM Defense is teaming with NP Aerospace at DVD, where attendees can experience a ride & drive at Booth OR13-SS in the Offroad Area. GM Defense will have our nine-passenger Infantry Squad Vehicle available, in addition to their Light Duty Off-Road Tactical Wheeled Vehicle, based on the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2.

The U.S. Army awarded GM Defense a contract worth $214.3m contract awarded in June 2020. GM Defense will manufacture 649 ISVs and will support the production of up to 2,065 vehicles with additional authorization over eight years. This is the first major award and delivery for GM Defense since the subsidiary was reestablished by its parent company in 2017. The ISV is based off the award-winning Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 midsize truck architecture and leverages 90 percent proven commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) parts, including Chevrolet Performance race components. The 5,000-pound ISV was uniquely engineered to fulfill military requirements and designed to provide rapid ground mobility. The expeditionary ISV is light enough to be sling loaded from a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter and compact enough to fit inside a CH-47 Chinook helicopter for air transportability. The COTS parts, combined with the ISV’s innovative Rollover Protection System, will provide agile transportability on the battlefield to support mission success. GM Defense has a teaming agreement with Ricardo Defense, which leads the Integrated Product Support for the ISV, including technical manual development, new equipment training, provisioning, total package fielding and field service support.

 

18 Sept 24. Babcock and ST Engineering launched a UK-manufactured 120mm Mortar to strengthen UK defence capabilities.

Babcock International Group (Babcock), the defence company, in partnership with ST Engineering, a technology, defence and engineering Group has unveiled its 120mm Ground Deployed Advanced Mortar System (GDAMS) at DVD2024.  Based on the world-leading technology of ST Engineering, the 120mm GDAMS is a vehicle-mounted, hinged mortar system developed to address the urgent requirement to enhance UK Armed Forces weaponry.

The mortar system is a result of close collaboration between Babcock and ST Engineering, bringing together complementary skills, technologies and solutions to strengthen the next generation of UK’s close indirect fire weapon systems.

The GDAMS will be built at Babcock’s production facility in Devonport, using a UK supply chain, making it the first UK-manufactured 120mm mortar systems in decades.

If selected for the UK in-direct fires programme, production of the 120mm GDAMS will deliver tangible benefits to the broader South-West region, through the upskilling of Babcock’s existing workforce in Plymouth and certainty for the regional supply chain.  Establishing and operating the 120mm GDAMS production line will also create up to 70 new skilled Babcock roles locally.

Based in the South Devon Freeport Zone, the production facility also supports future export opportunities from the UK, enabling better import terms for allied nations whilst simultaneously delivering social value and aligning with the UK’s Land Industrial Strategy.

Tom Newman, Chief Executive of Babcock’s Land business, said: “The Babcock 120mm GDAMS can help support the modernisation of the British Army with increased firepower and at the same time increase availability, affordability and capability of the essential equipment.”

Brigadier General (Ret) Jin Kiat Chua, Head of ST Engineering’s International Business, Defence and Public Security, said: “GDAMS is the pre-eminent tactical firing solution that pushes power to the edge and increase firepower. This collaboration combines ST Engineering’s extensive mortar expertise with Babcock’s production capabilities to deliver a sovereign solution that aligns with UK’s Land Industrial Strategy and enhances the combat effectiveness of the British Army.”

He added, “This partnership is underpinned by ST Engineering’s proven ability in delivering effective solutions, and a strong commitment to working with strong partners to co-create effective solutions that meet our customers’ needs.”

 

18 Sept 24. ST Engineering is exhibiting a number of products at DVD.

GDAMS: Offering Rapid Deployment and Enhanced Safety

The GDAMS, an advanced lightweight mortar system, is designed for myriads of wheeled military platforms. Its rapid deployment capabilities and patented blast diffuser technology enhance crew safety and allow for easy adaptation to existing in-service 81mm mortar systems.

GDAMS can be integrated easily on any lightweight wheeled platform and possesses an advanced fire control system. Engineered for ground deployment, the system efficiently redirects firing back-blast downward into the ground rather than the host platform. This makes it suitable for integration on light commercial vehicles and any 4×4 military-class wheeled vehicle, allowing the soldiers to swiftly depart after completing their mission.

The advanced fire control system further enhances operational efficiency through automated mortar positioning based on target coordinates provided by any Command and Control (C2) system, streamlining digital mission assignment and execution with precision.

SRAMS: Delivering Unparalleled Firepower

The 120mm Super Rapid Advanced Mortar System (SRAMS) breaks expectations as the world’s first mortar with a recoil force of less than 30 tonnes when firing maximum charge to achieve a range of 10 km. Weighing at just 1,200 kg, like the GDAMS it can be integrated onto and fired from a wide range of tracked or wheeled vehicles, delivering immense firepower to the lowest echelon.

The SRAMS MkII offers an effective 120mm mortar solution when integrated with any wheeled or tracked vehicle. It guarantees fast and accurate fire support to meet operational objectives.

Distinguished by its operational flexibility, the SRAMS MkII has enhanced traversing capabilities and simplified integration via a unified electrical interface across diverse vehicle platforms. The advanced fire control system enables automated mortar laying based on target coordinates provided by any C2 system, ensuring precise digital mission execution.

These advanced systems herald a new era of military operations defined by cutting-edge technology, superior efficiency, and exceptional operational capabilities.

Equipping military platforms with these game-changing weapon systems not only increase combat effectiveness by accurately engaging targets, they enhance the survivability of the crew and increased operational flexibility, offering greater versatility and strategic advantages on the battlefield.

 

18 Sept 24. Oxley is exhibiting its comprehensive vehicle lighting solutions at DVD.

Oxley designs and manufactures several solutions for use on the turret of a main battle tank, the Oxley team has extensive experience in this area and works with 12 of the world’s largest military vehicle manufacturers across the globe.

Oxley solutions are specifically designed for extreme rugged environments and incorporate high level EMC compliance and offer a high MTBF and outstanding durability.

In the sensitive environment of a turret, the electronics need to be self-contained in terms of emissions and Oxley lighting meets the most stringent classification on EMC. This is increasingly important with technology such as active drone protection systems and fire on the move capability. In the digital age with wider battlefield awareness and improvements in technical capability, it’s important that lighting solutions are future proof to allow for compatibility with technology upgrades.

The benefits of LED technology far outweigh that of incandescent technology. The requirement to store, replace and dispose of bulbs is eliminated, maintenance time is reduced and it provides significant through life cost and energy savings. Space is at a premium in a turret and Oxley LED lighting can be designed to fit into compact space envelopes, whilst offering improved brightness removing dark and shadowy areas within the turret.

Interior Light

The DC Combi is a low profile and light weight unit delivering white light plus an integrated blackout mode in a choice of colours. These lights have many advantages compared to traditional incandescent and fluorescent lighting. In areas with limited space, such as a turret the low profile design increases the available headroom. LED technology makes this a fit and forget solution, reducing overall costs through extended working life. The unit was specifically developed for military vehicle use and features a MIL-38999 connector and meets the very stringent power input requirements of DEF-STAN 61-5 Part 6, Issue 6. It also features a separate electrically isolated input, which can be used for blackout mode selection as well as a range of external control options via PWM.

Task Light

The Oxley Gooseneck task light incorporates state-of-the-art LED technology to provide a rugged task light designed to meet the toughest military standards. This is an exceptionally bright and highly focused task light with a luminous intensity of 600cd. Sealed up to IP67 with high vibration & shock proof this is a popular choice for turret applications.

Cockpit Utility Light

Primarily designed to be used as a task or inspection light, the flexible pigtailed Oxley cockpit utility light is a small, lightweight, LED lighting solution that can be used in a turret application. Combining the functions of a fixed spot or floodlight and, when snapped out of the socket, a portable hand torch.

Breech Light

The new Oxley Breech Light has been designed to illuminate the end of the cannon with a fixed specific beam to aid the gunner in the activity of automatic reloading. This light meets the toughest environment standards given its position and, as with all of the Oxley solutions has high levels of EMC protection to prevent any interference with sensitive turret equipment.

 

18 Sept 24. BCB Is exhibiting a number of key products at DVD including the Vehicle Camouflage solution. Camouflage is a vital system cloaking the turret and its vital systems from being located by advanced EO/IR systems and then engagement by enemy attack. Wales, UK based BCB International launched the anti-thermal ULCAT (Ultra-Lightweight Camouflage Tunnel) at DSEI 2023.

The main feature of the BCB exhibit at DVD exhibit will be the MK8 Multi-spectral Camouflage (MSC) in service with a number of special forces throughout the world.

The vehicle tunnel is made from specialised lightweight natural 3D material that helps your assets blend into any environment while at the same time protecting them in the visual, infrared and thermal spectrums. Patterns, colours and sizes can be customised to the customer’s requirements.

ULCAT FEATURES

• Random 3D ‘Crinkle’ pattern blends in with the irregularities of nature.
• Non-snag and breathable material.
• Quiet.
• Lightweight.
• Fire Retardant (ISO 6941)
• Non-absorbent
• Good visibility out of the net.
• Operational Temperature range of material: -45°C to +70°C.
• Equipped with quick opening front and back doors for rapid vehicle insertion/evacuation.
• Two additional quick opening lateral doors for personnel entry.
• Uses UK MoD standard issue fibreglass
• Tent poles and ground spikes
• Can also be used as a standard camouflage screen without poles, spreaders etc.
• Set up time: Approx 20 minutes (crew of 3-4 people)
• Dimensions of camouflage tunnel (deployed) are 8m (l) x 4m (w) x 3.5m (h)
• Weight of camouflage Net: Approx. 32kg
• Total weight of complete camouflage tunnel system, (including spreader poles, pegs, stakes etc.): Approx. 140kg

BCB manufacturers a complete range of clothing and protection systems for the infantryman from camouflage cream thru knee and groin protection systems to camouflage.

BCB International’s MSC system is designed to counter the most advanced surveillance technologies used in contemporary warfare.  Unlike traditional camouflage, which primarily focuses on IR and visible light, BCB’s solution operates across multiple spectra, including visual, infrared, and thermal imaging.

BCB’s MS camouflage (MSC) leverages advanced materials and technologies it has developed with a university over several years, to disrupt, deny, and deceive detection across the electromagnetic spectrum. By incorporating materials that absorb, reflect, or scatter radiation in various wavelengths, the camouflage effectively conceals personnel, large and very hot platforms like artillery, field camps, foxholes, and vehicles from detection by sensors, including drones equipped with infrared and thermal imaging systems.

 

18 Sept 24. Rheinmetall’s Investment in the UK: Strengthening.

Land Capability. Rheinmetall, a global leader in defence, continues to make significant strides in the United Kingdom by contributing to the land defence sector through innovation, robust collaboration, and a strong commitment to partnerships. As part of its ongoing efforts, Rheinmetall is playing a pivotal role in driving forward advancements in critical areas that support national security, economic growth, and the development and sustainability of high-skilled jobs while enhancing the UK’s land defence capability through advanced solutions tailored for the modern battlefield. Through close cooperation with industry and government, Rheinmetall has been instrumental in developing highly specialised skills and competence, particularly in land systems technology. Advancing and sustaining the UK’s Land Defence Capability

Rheinmetall has invested in bolstering the UK’s land defence capability, offering a range of advanced technologies designed to enhance the nation’s operational readiness. By investing in manufacture and design capability, delivering innovatory military vehicles, munitions, and integrated systems, Rheinmetall supports the British Army’s ability to operate effectively across all terrains. This commitment aligns to the UK’s broader objectives of increasing land defence capability through innovative, scalable solutions that ensure long-term adaptability and resilience in the face of evolving threats. Rheinmetall invests in the UK to produce and upgrade armoured fighting vehicles, contributing to rebuilding and advancing the UK’s armoured fighting vehicle capability.

Having invested in these on shore capabilities in the UK, Rheinmetall can bring forward technological innovation, product development and export orders from the UK, further sustaining this sovereign capability. These are all key enablers for Governmental inter-defence relationships which creates enhanced interoperability, joint development and procurement programmes and a more comprehensive, resilient supply base resulting in win-win partnerships in a partnership that is mutually beneficial to Rheinmetall and our customers.

Generating Military Advantage

Rheinmetall in the UK has generated sustained military advantage and developed a highly skilled industrial base for Challenger 3 and Boxer whilst providing social value in Telford, Newcastle, Isle of Wight and across its UK supply chain.

Rheinmetall has delivered the advanced technology of the Enhanced Kinetic Energy round to deliver assured overmatch for Challenger 3 and interoperability with other European users of the smoothbore gun; a strong example of the benefits of inter-collaborative approaches to security and defence, especially between UK and Germany.

Additionally, Rheinmetall’s commitment to generating military advantage extends further with the establishment of a centre dedicated to the rapid acquisition of HX trucks, which form the backbone of NATO’s logistics support. This facility enabled the UK to execute rapid acquisitions, ensuring that critical logistics and operational needs are met efficiently, further enhancing the nation’s ability to respond to evolving defence challenges.

Investing in British Talent and Innovation

A cornerstone of Rheinmetall’s operations in the UK is its focus on enhancing local expertise and capacity. Through close cooperation with industry and government, Rheinmetall has been instrumental in developing highly specialised skills and competence, particularly in land systems

technology.

In January 2024, Rheinmetall officially opened Rheinmetall House, its new offices in Bristol. This strategic investment reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to the UK and positions Rheinmetall at the heart of the UK’s defence innovation and collaboration efforts. The new office will serve as a hub for Rheinmetall’s UK operations, supporting ongoing development projects and fostering deeper engagement with local partners and stakeholders. Rheinmetall’s dedication tonurturing the next  generation of talent is also exemplified by its commitment to workforce

development. By offering training programmes and employment opportunities, the company is helping to equip the UK’s workforce with the skills required for the modern technological landscape—contributing to both the defence sector and the broader industrial base.

Collaborating for a Stronger Future At the heart of Rheinmetall’s success in the UK is its collaborative approach. The company has forged

strong relationships with local partners across various sectors, ensuring that its solutions are tailored to meet the specific needs of the British market. By working closely with these partners, Rheinmetall

ensures that its offerings contribute to the UK’s wider objectives of enhancing operational readiness, resilience, and capability across key industries. The company’s solutions are designed to integrate

seamlessly with existing infrastructure while maintaining flexibility for future adaptation, supporting the Ministry of Defence’s vision for a more flexible and responsive land force.

Looking Towards a Stronger Future

As Rheinmetall continues to grow its presence in the UK, its focus remains firmly on delivering highquality, innovative solutions that align with the nation’s strategic priorities. With a clear emphasis on

supporting UK land capability and a commitment to long-term partnerships, Rheinmetall will continue to focus on being the UK’s land champion – a partner now and in the future.

 

18 Sept 24. Rheinmetall Electronics UK’s releases SB360 Wide Area Sensor.

Rheinmetall Electronics UK is showcasing their latest vision product which debuted at Eurosatory in June.

The new 360° staring array offers automated object tracking and identification, providing continuous passive threat detection and surveillance.

SB360 targets a diverse range of wide-area surveillance for detection of Unmanned Air Systems, Small Air Targets and traditional short-range air defence threats.

The SB360 passive sensor is designed to operate in all weathers, achieving persistent 360° horizontal and 20° vertical fields of view. The vertical field of view can be expanded with an optional near overhead threat detection module enabling up to 60° vertical fields of view, for additional top attack detection capability.

Flexible configurations are available in the dismounted role, mounted on vehicles or maritime platforms, or in support of fixed asset protection and as part of a wider air target surveillance and effector system.

SB360 is non-rotational, offering the highest reliability and reduced power consumption, with continuous view-on-target tracking and a standard 30Hz refresh rate for use 24/7, 365 days a year.

Rheinmetall Electronics UK’s SB360 passive sensor staring array

Rheinmetall Electronics UK will show SB360 at DVD stand OR-15 from 18th – 19th September 2024.

Rheinmetall Electronics UK Managing Director, Richard Streeter said:

“We are delighted to launch this new sensor solution as a growing part of Rheinmetall’s innovative portfolio. This system leverages improvements and affordability of the latest IR sensor technologies and is focussed on enhancing security and enabling freedom of action for our global customers.”

 

18 Sept 24. Rheinmetall and Patria Unveil First UK Prototype Armoured Mortar Variant at DVD Exhibition. Rheinmetall and Patria announce the debut of their Prototype Armoured Mortar Variant at the Defence Vehicle Dynamics (DVD) exhibition in Millbrook, Bedfordshire, UK. This ground-breaking collaboration marks a milestone in the development of the British Army’s Armoured Mortar Variant, showcasing the innovative capabilities of both companies.

The new Armoured Mortar Variant, designed to enhance battlefield effectiveness, features state-of-the-art Patria NEMO 120mm turreted mortar system integrated onto Boxer highly mobile and protected platform. This variant is a testament to Rheinmetall and Patria’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions for modern armed forces.

Key Features:

 High Rate of Fire: The 120mm turreted mortar system can achieve a maximum rate of fire of 10 rounds per minute, providing rapid and sustained firepower in combat situations.

 Fire on the Move: This capability allows the vehicle to fire while on the move, significantly reducing the risk of counter-battery fire and enhancing operational flexibility.

 Direct and Indirect Fire: Unlike typical mortar systems that only offer indirect fire, this variant can perform both direct and indirect fire, increasing its versatility and effectiveness in various combat scenarios.

 Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact (MRSI): The system can deliver up to five rounds to hit a target simultaneously, overwhelming enemy positions and maximising impact. MRSI can also be coordinated between multiple platforms to further increase the firepower.

 Extended Range: With a range of up to 10 kilometres, the mortar system can engage targets at a considerable distance, providing support to frontline troops from a safe location.

 Superior Protection: The turreted mortar system allows operators to remain protected within the vehicle at all times, enhancing survivability and crew safety in hostile environments, adding to the army’s deterrence.

“We are excited to present this innovative Armoured Mortar Variant at the DVD exhibition,” said Rebecca Richards, Deputy CEO at Rheinmetall Vehicle Systems International. “This collaboration with Patria underscores our shared commitment to advancing military technology and providing the UK’s armed forces with the best possible equipment.”

 

18 Sept 24. Rheinmetall Oerlikon Skyranger 35 Turret at DVD 2024.

The Rheinmetall Oerlikon Skyranger 35 (35×228) turret from Rheinmetall Air Defence will be showcased at Rheinmetall’s DVD 2024 stand. This air defence weapon system is mountable on various wheeled or tracked platforms, fulfilling a typical VSHORAD role. This highly mobile air defence system, equipped with integrated search and tracking sensors, serves as a powerful, autonomous shooter. It can engage modern battlefield threats, particularly focusing on small, unmanned aerial targets. It combines exceptional firepower with the dynamics and elevation required to effectively engage highly agile single or swarming targets executing loiter pop-up or dive attacks. When paired with the Oerlikon Ahead air-burst ammunition, the gun achieves high effectiveness against the smallest targets.

Main features

 Mobile 35 mm air defence gun

 Effective combat range: up to 4,000 m

 35 mm Oerlikon Revolver Cannon® KDG

 Nominal rate of fire: 1,000 rds/min

 Rapid single shot mode: 200 rds/min

 35 mm x 228 Ahead air-burst ammunition

 Ready to fire ammunition: 252 rounds

 Integrated 360° AESA search radar and Ku-band tracking radar with a fully stabilized electro-optical sensor unit

You can view the Skyranger 35 Turret at Stand OR-15 at DVD on 18th & 19th September 2024

 

18 Sept 24. RBSL Unveil Challenger 3 in First Public Display at DVD 2024. The most lethal tank ever operated by British Armed Forces – the new Challenger 3 – will be on display at the British Army’s Defence Vehicle Dynamics (DVD) event in Millbrook.

Designed and produced by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) from their Telford (UK) manufacturing facility, the Challenger 3 is a leading example of advanced military vehicle production and collaboration between Britain’s allies and the most respected vehicle systems suppliers across the UK and Europe.

Visitors to DVD will see that the British-made Challenger 3 is designed with the user in mind using the most advanced technologies, delivering a vehicle for the challenges of today’s battlefield ensuring operational effectiveness and the safety and comfort of the crew. This has been achieved in part by the symbiotic approach to development, with RBSL engineers working side-by-side with Army personnel to adapt where needed within the parameters of the vehicle design and requirements.

Challenger 3 will be delivered with a next-generation modular armour system. Designed by world leading armour experts at Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), and jointly developed with DE&S and RBSL, the new modular armour provides a step change in survivability for the Main Battle Tank. Trials to date have been successful and ahead of schedule with further trials to take place in 2025.

In total, 148 Challenger 3 Main Battle Tanks will be upgraded: two prototypes have already rolled off the Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) factory production line in Telford this year with six more prototype vehicles being delivered in the coming months. Testing is already underway and progressing well to validate their performance and make refinements, before another 140 are built and delivered to the British Army.

RBSL Managing Director, Will Gibby said: “I am proud that the product of RBSL’s capability is being showcased at DVD, supporting the event’s theme of ‘Working together to pull the future into the present’.

“The RBSL team is making great strides, with Challenger 3 completing successful non-destructive testing and further capability trials are to come.   Not only has RBSL produced the most advanced and capable Main Battle Tank in NATO, the development capability to deliver this programme – including the people, process, tools, facilities, and knowledge – are the building blocks needed to tailor new customer solutions. We look forward to RBSL helping shape the future of military vehicle design and production with international allies.”

Challenger 3 is being delivered by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) under a £800m+ contract, creating highly skilled roles, with nearly 300 jobs generated within RBSL, including 130 engineers and 70 technicians, with an additional 450 jobs across the UK.

The contract has also attracted a £40 million inward investment in RBSL’s Telford facility, utilising a UK supply chain that includes companies in the West Midlands, Glasgow, Newcastle upon Tyne and the Isle of Wight.

Visitors to DVD can see Challenger 3 on the British Army’s stand.

 

17 Sept 24. NP Aerospace announced the award of a  £71m UK MoD wheeled vehicle support contract – CVSSP at DVD. NP Aerospace, the global vehicle integrator and armour manufacturer, has today announced the award of a £71 million wheeled vehicle support contract called the Conventional Vehicle Systems Spares and Post Design Services (CVSSP) contract. The contract, let by the UK MoD Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), was competitively tendered with bids submitted by major players across the UK defence industry. The contract duration is four years with two options to extend beyond that, of a further one year each.  This is a joint announcement together with UK MoD that coincides with the DVD exhibition taking place at Millbrook, 18-19 September 2024. At DVD NP Aerospace are exhibiting on stand OR13 at the offroad area.

The UK MoD CVSSP contract will see NP Aerospace deliver Post Design Services (PDS), Design Authority (DA) and Spares Procurement Services to a fleet of over 15,000 UK MoD core vehicles including: the entire Land Rover fleet; Pinzgauer fleet; protected Land Rover; RWMIK and the Lightweight Trailer fleet. The CVSSP contract consolidates and amalgamates former individual MoD PDS contracts providing a new single point of contact. Obsolescence management is a key challenge with some of the MoD’s ageing fleets and the CVSSP contract will ensure that vehicle fleet availability is maintained at the required levels to meet the operational and training needs.

In 2019 NP Aerospace won a similar vehicle support contract known as Protected Mobility Engineering & Technical Support (PMETS) that has since been successfully supporting the MoD’s fleet of over 2000 Protected Mobility Vehicles. The vehicles covered under the PMETS contract include Mastiff, Wolfhound, Ridgback, Buffalo, Choker, RODET, Foxhound, Jackal, Coyote and Husky. Having been successfully delivering PMETS for five years, NP Aerospace is now perfectly placed to align the newly awarded CVSSP contract alongside PMETS using tried and tested procedures that have already gained the confidence of the UK Mo’

This contract award will create and sustain jobs at NP Aerospace’s Coventry facility. The company’s facilities will also be expanded in due course to enable, integrate and deliver this new contract.

The UK Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP, said: “We will deliver a state-of-the-art combat vehicle fleet, ensuring our soldiers are equipped with cutting-edge firepower, protection, and mobility.” She added: “This new contract will help to secure the future of these crucial capabilities, streamlining the processes involved in repairs and upgrades, while boosting UK economic growth at the same time.”

Brigadier Matt Wilkinson from the Vehicle Support Team at Defence, Equipment and Support, said: “We have a long-standing relationship with NP Aerospace and I’m delighted that we are able to continue this partnership. Not only does it provide the best possible service to the Armed Forces, but it also aligns with the MOD’s future Land Industrial Strategy initiatives, including an evolution to Land Integrated Operating Services.”

James Kempston, CEO at NP Aerospace, commented: “This announcement is huge news for the team at NP Aerospace and we’re all delighted to have won this major contract against strong competition. It shows the high regard in which our services are held by the UK MoD, and that we deliver best value for our customer. He added: “The CVSSP contract aligns well with NP Aerospace’s abilities to support the MOD’s future LIOS initiative and the Land Mobility, and Land Industrial Strategy. The CVSSP award together with our current PMETS contract provides NP Aerospace with the post design support contracts covering the vast majority of the UK MoD’s lightweight wheeled utility, and protected mobility vehicle fleets.”

 

18 Sept 24. Thales announced a partnership with Dstl and defence SMEs Catalyst and DCE to create a new hybrid testing environment for crewed and uncrewed platforms at DVD.

• Thales, in collaboration with synthetic environment creators, Catalyst, and robotics and automation experts, Digital Concepts Engineering (DCE), are under contract from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), for the research and development of open interfaces and architectures between GVA compliant crewed and uncrewed platforms.
• A new, hybrid, test and experimentation environment (‘digital twin’) is being developed that will allow operators and researchers to plan and test new concepts, systems and architectures in both virtual and physical domains.
• The first use (both live and virtual) of the digital twin system is planned for early 2025, operating air and ground uncrewed systems from a GVA crewed platform in a Recce-FIND role. This will also incorporate artificial intelligence and Thales’ DigitalCrew, aiming to improve effective use of unscrewed systems and reduce the burden of key decision makers on the battlefield, leading the way in bridging the gap between crewed and uncrewed systems.
• The digital twin environment aims to enable integration of virtual and live systems from dispersed locations, better enabling early system of systems integration and testing at system and sub-system level (e.g. Hardware in the Loop).

Thales in the UK, under contract from Dstl, is leading the way with crewed-uncrewed integration, developing a system of systems digital twin environment for experimentation on the operation of Land Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS). Research is ongoing for the project entitled, ‘Land Robotics and Autonomous Systems Ecosystem of Digital Twin Development and Experimentation’ (Land RAS EDT), and the consortium of Thales, Catalyst and DCE are making great progress towards final live trials and demonstrations which are scheduled for early 2025.

Land RAS EDT is a hybrid ecosystem, allowing operators and researchers to utilise a common architecture and interface to plan and experiment in both the virtual and physical domain. The platform enables the operation of virtual and physical systems through one interface, which allows for endless experimentation opportunities. The development of Land RAS EDT will initially be designed to enable the exploration of RAS in the beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) reconnaissance role. It will also provide a platform for better understanding the contribution of RAS to the Army’s intent to fight by recce-strike at all levels.

Ultimately, the aim of the programme is to enable early experimentation in the virtual domain and allow for more effective multi-domain integration through the evolution and extension of existing open architectures and research in the combination of crewed and uncrewed systems. This will reduce the risks, costs and timescales associated with the introduction of new systems and concepts into the armed forces through embracing spiral development. For this project, the facility will incorporate Thales’ DigitalCrew and other AI enablers to better understand system effectiveness of such platforms and the benefits that they provide through a reduction of cognitive burden on the operator.

Catalyst has deep expertise in electronic architecture, synthetic environment modelling, simulation and experimentation. This expertise has been used to create a synthetic environment and digital twins of all physical platforms. DCE specialise in open architectures, developing technologies for robotic and autonomous systems, and is extending its Marionette control system for command and control (C2) of the project’s uncrewed ground vehicles. Thales, Catalyst and DCE are working to develop a system designed to include various crewed and uncrewed vehicles for multi-domain experimentation and testing.

Land RAS EDT consists of a physical mobile crewed platform, running a generic vehicle architecture (GVA) equipped with in service and next generation Thales optronics sensors. Through the use of mission planning software, the mobile crewed platform (or any accredited user on the network) can control and view the movement of the uncrewed, autonomous vehicles. All systems and vehicles have a “digital twin” in the virtual world. Thales and partners’ open architecture experience will allow Land RAS EDT to inform both new and existing programmes, improving efficiencies for defence procurement and, subsequently, reducing the cost and time of physical trials. Furthermore, Thales offers a platform, sensor, and software agnostic approach to integration, boosting the cost efficiencies associated with the research programme and final experimentation system.

“Robotic and Autonomous Systems are transforming warfare, but are rapidly evolving. The open and modular architectures developed in this project should better enable the Army to rapidly adapt and integrate emerging RAS technologies with in service platforms such as Ajax at the pace of relevance. This, together with the use of digital twin environments, should provide a critical enabler to reduce risks, costs and timescales associated with integration and spiral development of RAS capability into the force.”  – Guy Powell, Principal Advisor – Land Autonomy, Dstl

The world of uncrewed vehicles is rapidly evolving with many systems moving away from traditional, crewed fleets. Land RAS EDT enables the customer and end users to build on the vast open architecture experience of Thales and its partners, Catalyst and DCE, to extend exploration into autonomous systems and robotics. By incorporating artificial intelligence and Thales’ DigitalCrew, Land RAS EDT reduces the burden on key decision makers on the battlefield, leading the way in bridging the gap between crewed and uncrewed systems. Thales’ DigitalCrew will be deployed on UGVs, UAVs and command vehicles to autonomously detect and classify objects of interest. This information will be shared with the wider network to create a Common Operating Picture (COP).

“In recent times, the growing significance of autonomy and artificial intelligence has become increasingly apparent, reshaping the landscape of security strategies worldwide. This important research partnership between Dstl, Thales and multiple SMEs will advance the UKs understanding of Digital Twins and open architectures and explore how crewed, optionally crewed and uncrewed systems can co-exist in complex, multi-domain architectures.” Stephen McCann, Managing Director, Thales in the UK.

 

17 Sept 24. Field Army, Defence Equipment & Support, Babcock and TVS Supply Chain Solutions celebrate the success of the Land Rover Wolf Spares contract IRM22/7595. As the current contract for the Supply of Parts, Spares, Consumables & Accessories for the Land Rover Wolf Platform (IRM22/7595) draws to a close, the Vehicle Support team within the UK MOD’s DE&S, Field Army and Babcock have recognised the significant achievements of the contract in increasing spares availability.

The ageing Land Rover Wolf platform is a critical piece of equipment for UK MOD, with significant obsolescence issues. The continued supply of spares, consumables and accessories is essential and underpins the availability of the fleet.

Working collaboratively with all stakeholders TVS SCS applied its procurement, technical and supply chain capability to implement obsolescence management and alternative parts approval processes to re-establish supply of quality parts to the fleet.

Ewelina Gorka, VST Operations Manager CVS said “TVS SCS has provided a strong spares service to support the Land Rover Wolf Platform, which included a collaborative approach to the introduction of an alternative parts approval process, that has resulted in a significant improvement in spares availability within 18 months.”

The MOD’s decision to place this contract with a professional supply chain organisation aligns with the Defence Supply Chain Strategy. This strategy advocates an ambition to build supply chains that are ‘resilient by design’ and able to handle the ‘new normal’ of constant disruption through a proactive, integrated, and collaborative approach.

Dave Sulley, TVS SCS Senior Account Manager commented “We were delighted to be selected by UK MOD to deliver spares procurement to Land Rover Wolf platform back in 2022. The contract has been both challenging and rewarding, and evidence’s that TVS SCS’s proven procurement and obsolescence management processes can deliver huge improvements to fleet availability and supply chain resilience.”

TVS SCS are a global supply chain organisation who manage over 2 m parts on behalf of customers in the automotive, beverage, defence, healthcare, rail, and utilities sector. These clients rely on TVS SCS’s ability to create and manage a resilient supply chain that actively mitigates the risk of supply from global disruptions.

 

17 Sept 24. TVS SCS Awarded 7-Year Multi-Supplier Framework to Enhance Royal Navy Warship and Submarine Support. TVS Supply Chain Solutions (TVS SCS) is one of the suppliers that has been awarded a significant 7-year multi-supplier framework contract – MSS/141, by the Power, Propulsion and Auxiliaries (PPA) Team, a key part of Core Delivery within Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S). This prestigious contract will see TVS SCS providing critical systems spares and support, ensuring enhanced availability and operational readiness for Royal Navy warships and submarines worldwide.

This framework has been designed to deliver agility in response to an increasingly unpredictable global environment, while ensuring the Royal Navy meets its demanding operational schedule. This contract also underscores the UK Government’s commitment to driving value for money in defence procurement.

Maria Eagle, Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, commented:

“The spares and repairs that keep our warships and submarines at sea are critical, and this agreement will ensure that more British small businesses – from Southampton to Aberdeen – will be at the heart of supporting the Royal Navy. By backing our defence industry, we will keep the nation safe and support more than 200,000 jobs.”

TVS SCS, a global supply chain organisation, manages approximately 2 m items per day across various sectors including automotive, beverage, defence, healthcare, rail, and utilities. The company’s expertise in creating and managing resilient supply chains has been instrumental in mitigating the risks posed by global disruptions, making them an ideal partner for this critical defence contract.

Roger West, Managing Director Defence & Government Services, at TVS SCS, said:

“We are immensely proud to support the Royal Navy through the MSS/141 framework. At TVS SCS, we understand the complexities and challenges that come with supporting a modern naval fleet. The MSS/141 framework is not just about supply; it’s about anticipating needs, mitigating risks, and delivering solutions that are both timely and reliable. Our ability to navigate global supply chain disruptions, whether due to geopolitical tensions, economic shifts, or unforeseen events, ensures that the Royal Navy can continue to operate without interruption.”

This contract marks a significant milestone in TVS SCS’s ongoing partnership with the UK Ministry of Defence, reinforcing the company’s role as a key contributor to the nation’s defence capabilities.

 

16 Sept 24. Moog debuts RIwP® on British Army vehicle at DVD 2024.

•    Moog RIwP SHORAD configuration for the British Army’s Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) requirements will be featured at DVD.
•    It is the first time that Moog’s innovative modular weapon system has been fitted to a vehicle outside of the U.S.

Moog will present its Reconfigurable Integrated-weapons Platform (RIwP) – a unique weapon system that allows users to add and change weapons and sensors when needed – in a UK-specific short-range air defence (SHORAD) configuration on a British Army vehicle at Defence Vehicle Demonstration (DVD) 2024. The Moog RIwP is open and modular by design and is sensor, weapon, and vehicle agnostic, giving end users the choice to outfit the turret with their preferred equipment.

RIwP will be shown mounted on a British Army Ridgback 4×4 protected mobility vehicle in the NP Aerospace offroad display area OR13. This debut configuration marks the first time RIwP has been displayed on a vehicle outside of the U.S.

The vehicle-mounted RIwP being shown is specifically configured for the British Army’s current SHORAD requirement within the Land GBAD Programme. The exhibit includes missile canisters for the in-service High Velocity Missile (HVM) and the Lightweight Multirole Missile (LMM), as well as an advanced gunner’s sight. Additional lethality – and an example of RIwP’s versatility – is provided by a 30x113mm main gun and an M240 7.62mm machine gun, which can co-exist on the same turret as the missiles with no degradation in effector performance.

Visitors will also be able to view a 1/3 scale model of RIwP in an anti-armour ‘overwatch’ configuration featuring twin dual-Brimstone rails in the indoor Moog stand at DVD (booth C3-418). This configuration will also include the 30x113mm main gun and an M240 7.62mm machine gun.

The two different displays at DVD demonstrate how end users can configure RIwP with the weapons and sensors required for their specific mission set while retaining commonality between turrets.

RIwP is a proven and low-risk design that is already in service by the U.S. Army in both SHORAD and Counter-UAS (Counter-Small Aerial Target) roles, giving British forces the opportunity to benefit from the maturity of RIwP’s development and to increase interoperability with the UK’s closest ally.

RIwP also leverages open physical and digital architectures that drive down costs and allow spiral sensor and effector upgrades throughout the host platform’s life, which could be multiple decades.

As part of its UK industrial strategy, Moog is committed to building RIwP in the UK and will significantly expand its existing British footprint. Moog already employs over 1,000 people in the UK and supports upwards of 10,000 jobs across its supply chain, with a £65 m annual spend with UK small and medium-sized enterprises. If successful with the UK MoD, Moog will manufacture RIwP in the UK and export from there to other key defence markets.

Richard Allen-Miles, EMEA Capture Lead at Moog, said: “RIwP is a powerful capability that leverages our vast experience in precision motion control, stabilisation, and fire control. We believe this innovative weapon system is capable of meeting and exceeding the British Army’s current and future requirements. “This is a true game-changer and provides excellent cost effectiveness with over 85% hardware commonality. We are also highly supportive of strengthening and transferring skills to the UK industrial base and are looking to build our footprint further through facility expansion,” said Allen-Miles.

 

17 Sept 24. Hitting the mark: DASA builds dynamic partnerships to spearhead cooperative missile development. How DASA teamed up with defence primes, Government and industry innovators to develop novel missiles that can talk to each other

Smarter, cooperative missile technology holds huge potential for defence, offering an enhanced capability beyond that of single missiles. Cooperative missiles are designed to communicate with one another, share situational awareness, and coordinate their actions to work together within operator-set constraints to achieve a common objective during an engagement.

The ability to improve missile flexibility and responsiveness, allowing them to react to emerging threats and adapt to changing situations, is a challenge that the defence sector is determined to solve.

To address this, the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) launched the themed competition “It’s good for missiles to talk,” in 2022, on behalf of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl). Funding was provided by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and forms part of the Cooperative Missile Project. This initial phase funded 10 innovations aimed at providing valuable insights into how cooperative missiles could work.

Building on the success of Phase 1, DASA took the competition to the next level the following year launching Phase 2 in 2023, which focused on building dynamic partnerships with defence Primes, government customers, and industry. This new phase also aimed to deepen the MODs understanding of cooperative missile technology and explore its practical applications, and exploitation routes, pushing the boundaries of missile capabilities.

Collaborate to innovate: bringing UK primes on board

On the outset of the competition, DASA aimed to foster collaboration among all stakeholders, ensuring the best outcomes. Securing buy-in from major UK Defence Primes, Thales and MBDA, was crucial to this goal. Their missile technology expertise would not only aid in the development of the competition document but would also provide help to MOD technical assessors in evaluating innovations, ensuring feasibility and exploitability. This marked the first ever DASA competition with direct support from UK defence primes, highlighting the importance of industry partnership in advancing national defence capabilities.

Another essential aspect of the collaborative approach to the competition was the establishment of strong synergies between Dstl and Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S). In defence, it’s common for innovation organisations to work on similar technologies and research. Here, DASA aimed to pinpoint synergies within their respective scopes of work. This would help outline the competition requirements, set clear and measurable objectives, and disentangle interdependencies among challenge areas. The final outcome was a competition document that emphasised shared and achievable goals for all stakeholders.

During the course of the competition, DASA helped maintain these cross-functional relationships, pinpoint key individuals to harness collective wisdom, established goals responsibilities, and organised weekly team meetings to promote mutual support and ensure a unified approach in decision-making.

Outcomes: scanning the horizons for novel missile technologies

By securing willingness from Thales and MBDA to collaborate with the MOD Technical Partners, and establishing synergies between Dstl and DE&S, the competition produced six innovative funded technologies with a total investment of £1.4 m. The collaboration with industry partners and government significantly improved the potential for outcomes, accelerating the exploitation process.

The funded technologies were from a mix of universities, large organisations and SMEs.

Bornea Dynamics

A technique to deploy neural networks and other advanced processing/communication algorithms.

Swansea University

An innovation for improving antenna capabilities, particularly in terms of bandwidth coverage and beam steering.

University of Birmingham

A solution for horizon path planning for a network of cooperative missiles.

Origami Labs UK Ltd.

A collaborative sensing technology to help provide an adaptive, dynamic planning capability for missiles.

University of Liverpool

Automated routing information for missiles in-flight that allows them to maximise use of terrain screening for survivability.

General Dynamics UK Ltd

A capability for missiles to propose new engagement plans while the missiles are in flight.

Proactively partnering with Defence customers to improve capability pull-through

Here is what several stakeholders had to say about It’s good for Missiles to Talk: Phase 2.

Dr Colm Kelly – Senior Hardware Solution Architect, Thales

Collaborating with other UK primes, government bodies and various competitors as part of It’s Good for Missiles to Talk: Phase 2 has yielded interesting conversations from fresh perspectives. Supporting DASA and MOD throughout the process of crafting the competition, down selection and then collaboration with the competitors gives me greater insight into the expectations that MOD have for not just the Thales portfolio of systems but beyond. Engaging with new people has stimulated plenty of what if, and why questions – it is also good for people to talk!

Ian Fairclough, Head of Critical Technologies, MBDA

As the UK MOD’s sovereign partner on complex weapons, MBDA’s involvement in the competition phase has allowed us to highlight technologies that could fill emerging gaps, and that will complement technologies being matured through other frameworks and MBDA’s own innovation programmes. It has introduced us to new suppliers looking for support to adapt their technologies into an unfamiliar domain. By working together as Industry Primes with the DASA, DSTL and DE&S teams, we have been able to share viewpoints that should guide more of these DASA projects towards developments that we can incorporate into the UK Complex Weapon Portfolio – a win-win.

Charlie Maslen, Chief Future Technologies, Dstl

The DASA community is a great forum to seek innovate solutions and we looked to them to address key challenges in the development of Cooperative Missiles.  Involving the missile primes was important to us as it helps MOD ensure the successful exploitation of emerging technologies from supplier teams. DASA’s facilitation and organisation throughout the completion has been excellent.

Simon Zavad, Programme Manager – Future Kinetic Effects and Weapon Systems, Dstl

This competition was ground-breaking in its co-operation between DASA, Dstl, DE&S and strategic suppliers Thales and MBDA, who took part in the assessment of bids, providing a clear route to exploitation. For me this demonstrates best practice in breaking down organisational boundaries and delivering innovation through to capability on behalf of the MOD.

James Holder, Engineering Manager, DE&S

“Working as a joint Dstl and DE&S team on the It’s Good for Missiles to Talk Phase 2 competition has been hugely successful and has allowed us to collaborate with a number of small innovators who we wouldn’t have known about otherwise. The variety of proposals we received was really impressive and will help to support our respective technology development objectives, and the level of support we received from the DASA team throughout the process was fantastic.”

Learn more about the competition here: It’s Good for Missiles to Talk: Phase 2: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/competition-its-good-for-missiles-to-talk-phase-2

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

 

17 Sept 24. Elbit Systems UK (ESUK) announced during DVD that the company had completed the Critical Design Review (CDR) on the Dismounted Joint Fires Integrator (D-JFI) programme which will provide an Integrated Target Acquisition Solution for all branches of the British Armed Forces. The system enhances soldiers’ ability to find and identify targets and provides the crucial targeting information necessary to fire more quickly and accurately. It will be used by Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACS) and Fire Support Teams (FST), and the completion of the CDR is an important step to getting the system in the hands of service personnel.

The D-JFI system allows users to identify targets with high accuracy and feed information to close air support, maritime or artillery assets, enabling them to engage the target directly. This state of the art ‘sensor to shooter’ system is possible through ESUK’s highly-skilled team of engineers who lead the integration of the technology.

For enhanced usability, D-JFI combines world class sensors with an intuitive application which incorporates imagery, situational awareness and intelligence data. The system uses both active and passive detection, allowing users to mask their signatures in combat. This means that using specialist software on a tablet, information gathered by the D-JFI is sent digitally to an artillery system or aircraft to instantly engage the target, while the soldier operating the system remains hidden.

Elbit Systems UK will now progress to System Acceptance Testing in the next few months, with deliveries due to the UK MOD in 2025. Following the delivery to front-line units, the JTAC solution is expected to be in operation in 2025 with the FST variant expected to enter service in 2026. This is a demonstration of the strong UK based supply chain and strengthens ESUK’s position in supporting the British Armed Forces digitisation efforts and modernisation.

D-JFI incorporates a number of Elbit Systems UK’s advanced technologies including the TORCH-X FIRES Targeting application, the AION-C multi-spectral electro-optic payload, the RATTLER XR and RATTLER H target designators, the Hattorix mounting system for fast and accurate target identification and location, and the Smart-Hub power and data distribution hub and tactical router for C4I dismounted systems components. The D-JFI system, which is fully integrated with the British Armed Forces tactical communications system and Ground to Air Networks, supports hundreds of jobs across the UK alongside other ESUK programmes. This includes five UK based subcontractors on the programme addressing the requirements for UK sovereignty and freedom of action.

Martin Fausset, CEO of ESUK said: “The D-JFI system is an innovative, state of the art solution that allows users to assess and designate targets for fire support using cutting-edge technology. In an increasingly complex landscape, the Elbit Systems UK D-JFI system will provide an operational advantage to the British Armed Forces and we will continue to work closely with them to field the system to front line units in the next year”.

 

17 Sept 24. Rheinmetall Defence UK Signs the Armed Forces Covenant, Demonstrating Ongoing Commitment to the Armed Forces Community.

Rheinmetall Defence UK is proud to announce its formal commitment to supporting the UK Armed Forces by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. This important step highlights Rheinmetall Defence UK’s dedication to recognising and honouring those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, as well as their families, in the workplace and beyond.

The signing took place on 12 September at Rheinmetall House in Bristol, where Director Land Equipment (DLE) Major General Lizzie Faithful-Davies joined Rebecca Richards, Managing Director of Rheinmetall Defence UK, to officially sign the Covenant. This partnership underscores Rheinmetall Defence UK’s ongoing dedication to supporting the Armed Forces community through meaningful actions and initiatives.

By signing the covenant, Rheinmetall Defence UK pledges to uphold the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant, ensuring that no member of the Armed Forces community faces disadvantage in society, and that all are treated with respect and fairness. This commitment includes providing paid leave for employees who are Reservists or Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, allowing them to attend essential training exercises, and continuing to support Armed Forces charities through donations and fundraising efforts.

Rheinmetall Defence UK is also committed to fostering an inclusive recruitment process that actively supports the employment of veterans, service spouses, and partners, recognising the unique skills and experiences that they bring to the company. By offering flexible working arrangements for Reservists and providing opportunities for Cadets through insight days and other engagement activities, Rheinmetall Defence UK is reinforcing its long-term support for the Armed Forces community.

Rebecca Richards, Deputy CEO at Rheinmetall Vehicle Systems International, expressed her enthusiasm for the company’s commitment, stating: “We are delighted to have signed the Armed Forces Covenant, recognising our commitment to supporting those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, as well as their families. Our commitment includes allowing paid leave for employees who are Reservists or Cadet Force Adult Volunteers to attend training exercises, continuing to support Armed Forces charities, and ensuring our recruitment process supports the employment of veterans, service spouses, and partners. Signing this covenant reinforces our gratitude for the service and sacrifices of the Armed Forces community and demonstrates Rheinmetall Defence UK’s unwavering support for their welfare, both within our organisation and in society.”

By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, Rheinmetall Defence UK is joining thousands of organisations across the UK in publicly committing to support those who protect our nation. The company looks forward to continuing its partnership with the Armed Forces, supporting veterans, Reservists, and their families, and upholding the principles of the Covenant in all its operations.