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24 Feb 23. Ajax Vehicles: Procurement
Question for Ministry of Defence
John Healey
Labour
Wentworth and Dearne
Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether his Department plans to resume payments to General Dynamics Land Systems UK as part of the Armoured Cavalry Programme.
Answer
Alex Chalk
Conservative
Cheltenham
Commons
Answered on
23 February 2023
Payments to General Dynamics Land Systems UK against the main Ajax contract have not resumed. Under the firm price contract no payments have been made since December 2020.
Future payments remain under review as the programme continues its positive trajectory.
BATTLESPACE Comment: This Answer appears to be at odds with information published by the FT last week that payments for Ajax had resumed. (See: BATTLESPACE UPDATE Vol.25 ISSUE 08, 20 February 2023, Ajax armoured vehicles contract) However it may have been superceed by news on February 25th. (See: BATTLESPACE ALERT Vol.25 ISSUE 06, 25 February 2023, Ajax armoured vehicle project back on track)
24 Feb 23. Boxer, one foot longer, three engines, £1m each more and 2 years late? Sources close to BATTLESPACE suggest that the UK Boxer vehicle is rapidly becoming a ‘military special,’ with the MoD now demanding higher armoured protection which has required a more powerful engine and an extension of 1 foot to the hull to accommodate the larger powerpack. In addition the new Brideglayer variant will have a different more powerful Scania engine. All of this has led to cost increases and delays. This pout a huge question mark over forecasts of exports of Boxers from the UK.
24 Feb 23. A PQ about the CTA canon revealed the costs of the Programme to be €330m + £31.4m for 515 canons, 242 for Ajax and 270 for the cancelled WCSP Programme.
24 Feb 23. Babcock Collaborative relationship will deliver major order with UK MOD for High Mobility Transporters. Babcock will be working in collaboration with Devon-based Supacat, to deliver an order of 70 High Mobility Transporters (HMT 400 series) from the UK Ministry of Defence. The order was placed with Supacat on behalf of the British Army.
With an initial order of 70, the contract award could lead to the production of as many as 240 of the light armoured vehicles, should operational requirements demand. The contract is to be delivered between Supacat’s manufacturing facilities near Honiton where 10 new jobs will be created, and our Devonport site in Plymouth, where we’re pleased to be able to create 90 new jobs as a result of this collaboration.
Named ‘Jackal’ by the British Army, the HMT 400 series is a supremely versatile platform with unparalleled cross-country performance. Originally, developed in the 1990s, the Jackal builds on the success of Supacat’s original All Terrain Mobility Platform (ATMP). Produced in 4×4, 6×6 and convertible ‘Extenda’ configurations, Supacat’s HMT range has a worldwide reputation as formidable off-road vehicles and is in use with specialist and other armed forces worldwide.
The HMT platform vehicle has also proven itself internationally and is in service in Denmark, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, and Estonia. Further export opportunities are currently being explored, bringing further investment to the South West.
Tom Newman, Chief Executive of Babcock’s Land Sector, said: “This order is fantastic news for both Babcock and the local community in Plymouth. As a world-class engineering partner, we are delighted to be taking a key role in the production of this new phase of the Jackal platform, a truly British designed and manufactured vehicle. We are proud to be playing our part in supporting the British Army’s Land Industrial Strategy by securing critical industrial skills and capabilities and enhancing social value, including the creation of 90 new jobs.
“This new contract shows how British industry can work collaboratively to rapidly respond to defence requirements and deliver in short timescales. The HMT 400 series is also not only a battle-proven vehicle but a fantastic export asset in its own right, and our chosen build location in the freeport zone of Plymouth will enhance its export prospects.”
Nick Ames, Chief Executive for Supacat, said: “This is an enormously important contract win for us. Primarily it further evidences our customer’s confidence in our HMT 400 product after 20 years of service. Furthermore it gives us a platform to secure potential export orders and thereby shows how investment in UK products can provide benefit to the wider UK economy.”
This contract further builds on our well-established relationship with Supacat, having worked together to meet the UOR demand for Afghanistan when over 600 vehicles were assembled through our Devonport facility within a three-year period.
24 Feb 23. Milanion Group reveals new Agema UGV variants. Milanion Group showcased new loitering munition launcher and counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) variants of its Agema multi-purpose 8×8 unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) at IDEX 2023, being held in Abu Dhabi from 20 to 24 February.
The loitering munition launcher variant consists of a launcher for four MSP Inntech Warble Fly loitering munitions mounted in the cargo area of the Agema UGV. Speaking to Janes at IDEX 2023, Ahmed Yasser, head of engineering at Milanion, said that the launcher and its loitering munitions have a combined weight of less than 100 kg, and that an option is available to fit a larger launcher for eight Warble Flys.
The Warble Fly has a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 6 kg and can be fitted with a choice of five warheads: the GO-1 high-explosive fragmentation (HE-FRAG); GK-1 high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT); TBX
(Source: Janes)
23 Feb 23. Ukrainian soldiers continue training on Challenger 2 tanks.
UK trains Ukrainian soldiers to operate Challenger 2 tanks as part of ongoing support to Ukraine.
Training on UK Challenger 2 tanks for Ukrainian soldiers is continuing at pace in the South-West of England after the UK committed to provide 14 vehicles and accompanying ammunition to support Ukraine’s defence.
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace visited the training site today to meet the UK trainers and Ukrainian soldiers. Lasting for several weeks, the programme sees experienced Ukrainian soldiers learn how to effectively operate the tanks in combat conditions.
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said:
It is hugely inspiring to come and witness Ukrainian soldiers being trained on British Challenger 2 tanks. Their resilience and determination to succeed for the liberation of their country sends a powerful message to Russia.
Ukrainians will continue to fight, and the UK, alongside our Allies will not falter. We will continue to provide the capabilities needed to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. President Putin’s speech yesterday demonstrated just how dangerous to our security Russia has become.
The UK was the first country to provide Ukraine with modern Western main battle tanks and paved the way for other countries to donate their own vehicles.
Support to Ukraine from the international community has been unwavering since Russia’s full scale invasion nearly a year ago, on 24 February 2022. The UK has equipped the Armed Forces of Ukraine with a range of capabilities to help them defend their territory including anti-tank weapons, armoured vehicles and air defences.
This visit comes after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak extended the UK military training offer to Ukraine to include pilots and marines. The training of Ukrainian soldiers, alongside the gifting of equipment, has been vital to Ukraine’s defence, ensuring that the Armed Forces of Ukraine have the knowledge and capabilities they need to repel Russia’s illegal and ruthless invasion. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
22 Feb 23. John Cockerill Defense signs strategic Teaming Agreement with EDGE Group entity NIMR. John Cockerill Defense and EDGE Group entity NIMR proudly announce the signing of a Teaming Agreement to jointly explore opportunities for the development and marketing of the innovative Cockerill® i-X.
Following the successful launch of the Cockerill i-X in 2022, John Cockerill Defense has completed a series of mobility and live fire trails with the prototype vehicle that is present on the John Cockerill Defense stand, Hall 12, Stand B14, at the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX).
Thierry Renaudin, CEO of John Cockerill Defense, said: “We at John Cockerill are enthusiastic to begin working with NIMR. They have shown themselves to be fully committed to the development and production of combat-proven military vehicles. Our joint knowledge and experience will enable us to make the Cockerill i-X the weapon system of the future that will best meet the needs of international armed forces. I look forward to our two companies working together on this exciting project.” (Source: ASD Network)
20 Feb 23. Oshkosh Defense Exhibits World-class Military Capabilities at Idex 2023. Oshkosh Defense, LLC, an Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE: OSK) company, will showcase a 4-door Oshkosh Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), equipped with an Objective Gunner Protection Kit (OGPK) during the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) 2023 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The vehicle will be part of Oshkosh Defense booth #02-B12 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from February 20 – 24, 2023.
“We are excited to be back at IDEX this week discussing our full portfolio of tactical wheeled vehicles,” said John Lazar, Vice President, International for Oshkosh Defense. “Oshkosh is committed to supporting the United Arab Emirates and our regional allied and coalition partners by building world-class tactical wheeled vehicles and mobility systems that strengthen operational and tactical capabilities.”
Most recently, Oshkosh has demonstrated success with programs like the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles A2 (FMTV A2) and the Eitan Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) hulls providing customers with leading innovation and the most capable military equipment in the industry.
17 Feb 23. AM General to Internationally Debut HUMVEE Saber Concept at IDEX 2023. Leading global military mobility solutions provider AM General will showcase innovative products and technology that sets the standard to support the warfighter, today and well into the future, at the International Defense Exhibition (IDEX) February 20-24, 2023, Booth #B08, Hall 2, U.S. Pavilion, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) in Abu Dhabi, UAE. On the heels of the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) follow on contract award, the company will debut the HUMVEE Saber Blade Edition concept outside of the United States – a collaboration with leading defense companies to showcase the platform’s flexibility to easily integrate various advanced weapons systems.
“We are extremely excited to participate at IDEX, which is the perfect venue to introduce new and innovative products on the world’s stage in support of our most important customer – the Warfighter,” said John Chadbourne, AM General EVP – Chief Business Development Officer. “With the HUMVEE Saber Blade Edition, we continue to push the boundaries of lethality and protection on the battlefield, and we’re proud of the collective effort we fostered with AeroVironment and Hornet to develop this concept.”
The company’s core capability of Light Tactical Vehicle (LTV) development and production with HUMVEE vehicles, HUMVEE Saber, and now JLTV, ensures that the end user is well equipped and supported on the battlefield. The HUMVEE Saber Blade Edition concept underscores how AM General continues to innovate to adapt and win on the modern battlefield with offensive and defensive capabilities – all in a vehicle that is rugged, responsive, and reliable. The HUMVEE Saber Blade edition integrates AeroVironment’s Switchblade® loitering munitions and a Hornet Air Guard Remote Controlled Weapon System (RCWS) with Counter-UAS concept by Hornet. The loitering munitions on the HUMVEE Saber Blade Edition include the Switchblade 300 and Switchblade 600 that provide rapidly deployable, loitering precision strike missiles for use against non-line-of-sight targets. The Hornet Air Guard offers anti-drone detection & neutralization capabilities to the Hornet RCWS which provides surveillance, fire, and self-protection thanks the use of air-burst ammunition and the addition of an independent drone detection ring.
“The current conflicts have demonstrated the increasing importance of drones, whether to target vehicles or for reconnaissance missions. Being able to detect and defeat such threats while maintaining the vehicle’s primary protective capacity is the ultimate capability for a Remote-Controlled Weapon Station. That’s Hornet Air Guard ambition,” explains Jean Boy, Managing Director of Hornet.
Through continuous improvement, the HUMVEE Saber contains leap-ahead technology in a redesigned vehicle that offers increased levels of protection in a truly agile light tactical vehicle. The proprietary cabin design is redefining survivability that allows for 360-degree kinetic energy threat protection as well as blast threat protection. Built off the HUMVEE vehicle platform, the HUMVEE Saber offers maximum commonality, simplified maintenance, and streamlined fleet sustainment. (Source: ASD Network)
20 Feb 23. Milrem Robotics exhibits cutting-edge intelligent and integrated robotic systems at IDEX 2023. The leading European robotics and autonomous systems developer Milrem Robotics exhibits several cutting-edge intelligent and integrated robotic systems at IDEX 2023 launched today in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The robotic systems on display are intended for a wide range of missions, including tactical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), and sophisticated combat operations.
Milrem Robotics’ unmanned systems are complemented with Milrem’s Intelligent Functions Kit MIFIK which provides autonomous capabilities and a command-and-control system intended specifically for robotic systems that integrates multiple dissimilar unmanned aerial and ground assets. Milrem Robotics’ solutions aim to facilitate manned-unmanned teaming, the synchronized deployment of soldiers, manned and unmanned air and ground vehicles, robotics, and sensors to achieve enhanced situational awareness, increased lethality, and improved survivability.
”In ten years Milrem Robotics has evolved from a vehicle developer into a system integrator in the robotics domain. We provide full system solutions including different ground and aerial systems with integrated command and control. Over the next years we will increase our product portfolio in terms of new autonomous ground systems and work on manned-unmanned teaming solutions,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of MIlrem Robotics.
Altogether three Milrem Robotics’ systems can be found at IDEX.
The Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle is an organic part of mechanized units that can take the most dangerous positions and provide equal or overmatching firepower and tactical usage compared to traditional Infantry Fighting Vehicles. Thanks to Vegvisir’s Mixed Reality Situational Awareness System Type-X operators have a 360-degree virtual dome with EO/IR sensor fusion for both close and medium proximity vision and target engagement capabilities in any condition.
In addition to a 30mm autocannon, the Type-X is equipped with Halcon’s Hunter 2S loitering munitions launchers.
The two other displayed robotic systems are based on the multi-mission THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) that is already delivered to 16 countries, including 8 NATO members and that has proven itself during a 12-month deployment in Mali during Operation Barkhane.
The THeMIS Combat UGV provides high-precision direct-fire support for manoeuvre units. With the self-stabilizing, dual-gun SCORPION Remotely Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) by Saudi Advanced Technologies (Wahaj), advanced sensors and fire control system, the THeMIS Combat allows units to assess and engage the enemy at maximum standoff distances, increasing force protection and survivability. Additional security is provided with the Spexer 2000 radar, which can detect small and slow as well as fast manoeuvring targets on the move and operate in a high-clutter environment.
The THeMIS Observe is built for tactical reconnaissance missions. The system includes a variety of sensors for day and night operations, acoustic gunshot detector, smoke screen protection and a ground surveillance radar. Extra security is provided by the deFNder® Light RWS by FN Herstal. The combination of those systems allows units to do multi sensor identification on one platform and react faster on emerging targets.
The company’s products are on display with EDGE, one of the world’s leading defence groups, and an emerging leader in the development and manufacture of technologically advanced autonomous systems in stand A05 – C10.
21 Feb 23. Paramount showcased new brand, emphasises global presence. Paramount, now headquartered in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), unveiled its new logo and brand at the IDEX 2023 exhibition currently underway in Abu Dhabi and emphasised its global presence and portable manufacturing solutions.
Of the changes Paramount founder Ivor Ichikowitz said: “Over the past 30 years the world changed significantly and so has our trajectory. Our new logo is in line with the growth and development of the company and positions us well into the future”.
“Our brand evolution reflects transformation into a complete technology company. We are focused on designing, engineering, prototyping, industrialisation, assembly and certification of ingenious, 360-degree, battle-proven defence solutions that fit each of the local markets we serve.”
Among Paramount’s current technology priority areas is expansion of its autonomous or optionally manned capability (including an optionally manned Mwari aircraft) based on its existing portfolio of air, sea and land platforms. Additionally, the company is increasing its range of unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
“Today, the majority of projects we do around the world relate to either evolving technology we have developed for the specific requirements of each country, or using our wide-ranging IP and expertise to develop new products for specific operational requirements,” Ichikowitz said.
Paramount highlighted its portable, in-country manufacturing capabilities and transfer of technology, skills, and licensed intellectual property. “Paramount has a proven track record of successful industrial partnerships and actively seeks global partnerships with governments and industrial partners or national champions to broaden its international footprint further. The company has expanded globally through strategic acquisitions, joint ventures, global partnerships and various product innovations,” the company said.
According to Steve Griessel, Paramount Group Chief Executive Officer: “In the current geopolitical environment, defence industrial autonomy is one of the most important considerations for any government. Paramount’s relevance in regions like the Middle East is increasing substantially. We remain one of few organisations in the defence industry worldwide with the depth and breadth of capability across several domains, who has as its business model sharing technology and development of domestic industrial capability”.
“Paramount has the advantage that over the past 29 years we invested time and funds to develop base technology and battle proven certified product. This adds huge value to our industrial partners who are able to have a running start by partnering with us on portable production to fast track defence industrial capability.”
The company has offices around the world including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), South Africa, United Kingdom, USA, Nigeria, Ghana, Cyprus, Kazakhstan and Greece.
Its aircraft, vehicles, autonomous systems and naval vessels are manufactured at sites around the world – it has a substantial armoured vehicle facility in Kazakhstan, for example, and builds Mbombe 4 vehicles in India with Bharat Forge. Other vehicle manufacturing is taking place in Thailand.
“Our objective for the next five years is to expand portable production across five or six production facilities around the world. It’s time to use the building blocks of our success to create a platform for our expanding global growth. Our brand messaging and the Paramount logo has evolved to reflect and position Paramount for the next 30 years,” Griessel added. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
21 Feb 23. Patria OPTIME ensures fleet performance in all conditions over the entire lifecycle. Patria launched a new service concept Patria OPTIME at IDEX. The new concept combines robust engineering and maintenance expertise with data analysis in a unique way for the sustainment of various kinds of fleets. It ensures that customer fleets are always ready for operations – with optimal costs.
Patria OPTIME is a modular service model that is always tailored and scaled according to the needs of the customer – from a single fleet to broader combination of fleets in different operating environments on land, at sea and in the air. Patria OPTIME covers a broad range of services and solutions impacting the fleet availability, such as fleet maintenance, upgrade and modification projects and needed integrations in the later stages of the lifecycle as well as supply chain management and training services. Patria OPTIME is not limited to specific assets made by certain original equipment manufacturers.
Patria OPTIME combines top-notch engineering expertise with efficient data utilization in a unique way for the sustainment of military equipment. It is a data-driven concept, which ensures the performance and cost-effective operation of the fleet. In the centre of the concept is data collection from the fleet usage and maintenance. This leads to analysing and combining the data to boost the efficiency of maintenance work, improve predictability and produce alternative scenarios for decision-making purposes.
One of the key benefits of Patria OPTIME is support for the security of supply. Even during a crisis, the customer can count on Patria’s support.
Patria OPTIME also covers the management of fleet MRO supply chains, as required by the customer. Data analysis makes it possible to anticipate the future need for spare parts and to optimally plan the deliveries and storage of these parts.
Patria OPTIME is set up in phases together with the customer. The specification of the Patria OPTIME solution begins with an assessment of the current state of the customer’s operating environment, equipment and sustainment solution as well as the requirements set for them.
Patria OPTIME ensures the performance of different kinds of fleets in all conditions over their entire lifecycle.
21 Feb 23. Otokar showcased 6 vehicles at IDEX 2023. Otokar, the global land systems manufacturer of Turkey, participates in the IDEX International Defense Exhibition in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, on February 20-24, 2023. Otokar showcases six vehicles from its wide armored vehicles range during the exhibition.
Exporting military vehicles to more than 40 countries, Otokar showcases its strengths at IDEX 2023, one of the major international defense exhibitions. At IDEX International Defense Exhibition, which takes place in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates on February 20-24, 2023, Otokar promotes its globally known military vehicles and advanced capabilities in land systems. Otokar displays six vehicles during the event at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre ADNEC.
Otokar showcases the following vehicles: AKREP II Armored Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Weapons Platform Vehicle, with COCKERILL CSE 90LP 90mm turret system; ARMA 8×8 Armored Infantry Fighting Vehicle with 30 mm MIZRAK turret system; TULPAR Tracked Armored Infantry Fighting Vehicle with 30 mm MIZRAK turret system; COBRA II Armored Personnel Carrier; COBRA II MRAP Mine-resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle; and ARMA 6×6 Armored Personnel Carrier. Visitors will find the opportunity to explore these vehicles at the Otokar stand.
“WE STAND OUT WITH OUR CAPABILITIES IN THE GLOBAL DEFENSE INDUSTRY”
General Manager Serdar Görgüç stated that IDEX is particularly important to Otokar as the company elevates its position in the global defense industry to higher levels every year, “In addition to being a NATO and United Nations supplier, we currently have nearly 33 thousand military vehicles in the inventories of close to 60 users in more than 40 countries. We reflect the experiences we gain in different climates and geographies around the world on our vehicle development activities. As a result, we stand out in the global defense industry with our products, world-class know-how, engineering success, R&D, and technological capabilities. IDEX provides us with an invaluable opportunity in line with Otokar’s objective of reinforcing international partnerships, especially in the Gulf Region, and opening to new markets.”
“THE MIDDLE EAST AND GULF REGIONS ARE IMPORTANT TO US”
Serdar Görgüç noted that many variants from Otokar’s broad range of military vehicles have successfully served different forces in the Middle East and Gulf Regions since the early 2000s, “The Middle East and Gulf Regions are important to us. Otokar Land Systems, the company we established in 2016, has brought us closer to our clients in the region. The company enables us to observe the needs and expectations of our existing and prospective users better. In the last seven years, we accomplished major projects with Otokar Land Systems. In 2017, we signed an important contract for procurement of 8×8 tactical wheeled armored vehicles and in 2021 we successfully completed deliveries despite the pandemic. Thanks to our superior design, testing and manufacturing capabilities, we quickly respond to the constantly evolving needs and expectations of our users. Today, Otokar also stands out with its technology transfer and local production capabilities. We look forward to a productive exhibition period and hope to build on our relations with our existing users at IDEX.”
The key features of the globally acclaimed vehicles that Otokar exhibits at IDEX 2023: NEXT-GENERATION MODULAR ARMORED VEHICLE: AKREP II
AKREP II, which is built on the globally successful AKREP armored vehicle range that Otokar first developed in 1995, is designed as an armored reconnaissance, surveillance and weapons platform. Combining high firepower and survivability in a low silhouette, the AKREP II range, designed to meet the current and future needs of modern armies, offers a modular construction that comfortably carries turrets up to 90mm cannon.
AKREP II’s four-wheel drive system and steerable rear axle (optional) give the vehicle excellent maneuverability. AKREP II can operate with equal ease on all challenging terrain conditions, whether soft sand, deep mud, or snow. Relying on the four-wheel independent suspension and swift torque control of the power pack, AKREP II can travel cross-country over challenging terrain and traverse deep mud, snow or water with equal ease. Maneuverability of AKREP II is crowned with crab steering motion, which comes with a steerable rear axle.
AKREP II controls the basic mechanical components of steering, acceleration, and deceleration electrically (drive-by-wire). This makes it possible to remote control the vehicle, or adapt the driving assistance systems and autonomous capabilities.
As a multi-role vehicle suitable for different types of missions, AKREP II has the ability to provide effective firepower without compromising survivability. Medium-caliber turrets up to 90 mm can be integrated. AKREP II can also be configured for weapon platform for quick reaction, surveillance missions, armed reconnaissance, air defense missions, forward observer, and other similar tasks.
AKREP II has the advantage of combining low silhouette, high mine protection, and effective fire power on the same platform. AKREP II can be equipped with alternative powerplants: diesel, hybrid, and electric.
At IDEX 2023, Otokar showcases the diesel variant of AKREP II with the COCKERILL CSE 90LP 90mm Turret.
TACTICAL WHEELED ARMORED VEHICLE: COBRA II
COBRA II offers high level of protection, payload capacity, and large internal volume. In addition to superior mobility, COBRA II APC also comes with the capacity to accommodate 10 personnel including the driver and commander, offering high protection against ballistic, mine and IED threats. Delivering high performance in the toughest terrain and climate conditions with high power to weight ratio, COBRA II is tested rigorously in different parts of the world, on toughest terrain and climate conditions, and made thousands of miles. Preferred especially for offering a wide range of weapons integration and mission equipment options, COBRA II is successfully in service for border protection as well as internal security and peacekeeping missions in different users. The modular structure of COBRA II also makes the vehicle a flexible platform to be used as a personnel carrier, weapons platform, ground surveillance radar, CBRN reconnaissance vehicle, command control vehicle, and ambulance. Otokar exhibits the Personnel Carrier version of the COBRA II at IDEX 2023.
BUILT FOR THE TOUGHEST MISSIONS: COBRA II MRAP
The COBRA II Mine-resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle (COBRA II MRAP) is developed to ensure high survivability in risky areas. The vehicle provides superior protection for the crew against ballistic, mine and IED threats while maintaining high cross-country mobility in battlefield conditions with its independent suspension system. It is specifically designed to provide high reliability, ease of maintenance.
With its modular design, COBRA II MRAP provides high payload and spacious internal space for integration of weapon systems and mission equipment. The vehicle can be configured with alternative seating layouts for up to 11 personnel with 3 or 5 door configurations as per specific user requirements.
ARMA MULTI-WHEELED VEHICLE RANGE
The ARMA multi-wheeled vehicle range is a combat-proven IFV family and a modular platform for various missions. ARMA meets survivability, protection level, and mobility requirements of modern armies. In addition to its high combat weight and spacious interiors, the ARMA range also draws attention with its low silhouette. Thanks to an amphibious kit, the vehicle can swim in the water without any preparation and travel up to 8 kph.
The armored monocoque body with high ballistic and mine protection is a modular platform that allows the integration of mission equipment or weapon systems in different specifications. ARMA can be used with weapon systems ranging from 7.62 mm to 105 mm, and provide a suitable platform for command and control, engineering, ambulance, recovery and similar vehicle variants.
At IDEX 2023, Otokar exhibits ARMA 6×6 Armored Personnel Carrier and ARMA 8×8 Armored Infantry Fighting Vehicle with the company’s own design 30 mm MIZRAK turret system.
TRACKED ARMORED INFANTRY FIGHTING VEHICLE: TULPAR
TULPAR Armored Tracked Vehicle stands out with mobility, high firepower, and survivability features. TULPAR is designed as a multi-purpose vehicle with variants ranging from 28000 kg to 45000 kg to fully satisfy the future global requirements. Future-oriented perspective of modularity is to increase operational flexibility by using common components and a common chassis over wide range of vehicle variants. TULPAR comes in several variants that share common subsystems.
Tested in the toughest climates and on rough terrain by different users worldwide, TULPAR boasts best-in-class ballistic and mine protection with modular armor technology and armor structure that can be configured and scaled according to threats.
In addition to providing an effective solution in missions that require high fire power, TULPAR can serve in all kinds of combat environments from urban, built-up areas and light bridges to woodlands and all terrains especially soft surfaces where main battle tanks are unable to operate due to their heavy weights.
Otokar showcases TULPAR Tracked Armored Infantry Fighting Vehicle with its own design 30 mm MIZRAK turret system at IDEX 2023.
21 Feb 23. GM Defense LLC, a subsidiary of General Motors (GM), and the Tawazun Council signed a collaborative Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today as the first step toward a formal partnership to develop future products in the areas of advanced mobility and power solutions. The MOU was signed at the Tawazun Council Chalet at IDEX 2023 by Shareef Hashim Al Hashmi, CEO of Tawazun Council and Steve duMont, president of GM Defense.
With the MOU in place, GM Defense — which leverages the proven commercial technologies of its parent company, GM, and the vast battery electric investments made by GM to bring innovation to global defense and government customers — and Tawazun Council — the UAE government entity that supports defense and security investments and promotes innovation and R&D in the defense industries — will facilitate business with the shared objective of delivering efficient and advanced solutions to military, security and government customers from the UAE and across the region. Priority opportunities covered by the MOU include cooperative research and development, regional production and assembly, and post-production support and global logistics focused on the key technology areas of integrated vehicles; power and propulsion — including fuel cell and power generation; and autonomy and connectivity.
“Our collaboration with Tawazun Council is an important step in expanding our reach to defense and government customers in the Middle East,” said Steve duMont, GM Defense president. “We are committed to building long-term, lasting relationships in the region and to delivering solutions featuring some of the most advanced, commercially proven technologies that offer reliability and flexibility. With this MOU in place, we can more effectively help our global customers transition to a more electric, autonomous and connected future.”
“Today’s agreement marks an important, new relationship that further strengthens our nation’s domestic defense industrial base while offering new opportunities for an expanding technology development and supply partnership with GM Defense,” said Shareef Al Hashmi, CEO of Tawazun Council. “Tawazun is uniquely positioned within the region as a resource for operations, production and development for world-class technology companies like GM Defense. Our strong global tie makes us an advantageous partner.”
The MOU with Tawazun Council is the first partnership for GM Defense in the Middle East and helps the business expand its reach following the 2022 announcement of GM Defense International. GM Defense’s ability to leverage GM’s advanced commercial platforms, world-class manufacturing and global supply chain and advanced electrification technologies enable the company to deliver commercially proven, best value solutions with innovation, speed and flexibility.
For the latest GM Defense news, please visit www.GMDefenseLLC.com and follow GM Defense on LinkedIn.
About GM Defense LLC
GM Defense delivers integrated vehicles, power and propulsion, and autonomy and connectivity solutions to global defense, security, and government markets. The exceptional reliability of GM Defense’s technologies results from decades of proven performance and bns of dollars spent in independent research and development by its parent, General Motors, a world leader in global design, engineering, and manufacturing capabilities. For more information, please visit www.gmdefensellc.com.
About Tawazun Council
Tawazun Council is an independent government entity that works closely with the Ministry of Defense and security agencies in the United Arab Emirates.
The Council contributes to maximizing value through innovative budgeting and acquisition systems, and by sustaining technology & innovation to support national industry needs through robust regulations to ensure superior quality. It also seeks to accelerate ecosystem growth by developing capabilities, driving local content, and creating in-country value.
20 Feb 23. Oshkosh Defense extending footprint in Saudi Arabia with new partnership. The US company and the Zahid Group are teaming up on tactical wheeled vehicle programs. Oshkosh Defense is extending its reach in Saudi Arabia’s defense market with the signing of a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) today with the Zahid Tractor and Heavy Machinery Company.
Representatives from the duo inked the MOU today at the International Defense Exhibition (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Oshkosh said the partnership is intended to “offer Saudi Arabia Armed Forces with relevant expertise and resources to support maintenance, repair, and overhaul of current and future tactical wheeled vehicle programs in the Kingdom.”
“This partnership will directly support [Saudi Arabia’s] Vision 2030 through the localization of maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services for the Saudi Ministry of Defense,” Nasser Bayram, the group president of transport for the Zahid Group, said in the press release.
“Together, we will train the most diverse team of local technical experts to provide a complete range of life cycle sustainment services to optimize the readiness and performance of all Oshkosh vehicles within the Saudi Armed Forces and beyond,” he later added.
Oshkosh produces the family of medium tactical vehicles A2 (FMTV A2), the Eitan Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) hulls, as well the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV).
This is not Oshkosh’s first foray into Saudi Arabia’s defense market. The US company and Saudi Arabia’s Al Tadrea Manufacturing Company established a joint venture to manufacture armed vehicles there several years ago, and Oshkosh has also signed an MOU with the state-owned Saudi Arabia Military Industries.
John Lazar, Oshkosh’s vice president for international programs said today that the new agreement is an “evolving” step forward for providing Saudi Arabia with tactical wheeled vehicles and training.
(Source: Defense News Early Bird/Breaking Defense.com)
20 Feb 23. GM Defense gears up to roll out advanced driver-assistance tech with new Ultra Cruise. GM Defense gears up to roll out advanced driver-assistance tech with new Ultra Cruise
The global leader in hands-free driver assistance systems, GM Defense, is rolling out Ultra Cruise, an all-new, advanced driver-assistance technology that will be available on select vehicles in 2023.
Ultra Cruise works through a combination of cameras, radars and LiDAR, developing accurate, 360-degree, three-dimensional statistical representations of the environment surrounding vehicles to enable hands-free driving on city and suburban streets, paved rural roads and highways.
The Ultra Cruise has been built on the capabilities of GM’s Super Cruise, the commercial industry’s first true hands-free driver assistance feature that has been used in select GM vehicles since 2017.
GM Defense can leverage this commercial technology and lessons learned from commercial applications to deliver military specific solutions for off-road autonomy to address the current and future needs of global military customers.
From optionally crewed to fully autonomous vehicles navigating and operating without driver intervention, GM Defense has the ability to leverage autonomous technologies that can be integral to military modernization and the expansion of war fighter capabilities in an ever-evolving global threat environment.
Connected vehicles
Enabling vehicle connectivity through a secure network increases the readiness of war fighters and reduce ever-increasing sustainment costs. Application of GM’s connected vehicle capabilities can offer insights into vehicle health and monitoring through prognostics that help soldiers know the tactical vehicle’s status, location and maintenance needs. These solutions also provide greater insights into vehicle health, allowing for predictive maintenance.
Secure connectivity
As more vehicles connect to networks and include autonomous capabilities, cybersecurity becomes increasingly more important. GM brings more than two decades of experience, securing vehicles that are highly integrated computer systems. Using a ‘defense in depth’ security strategy, GM layers multiple security controls to limit chances of hacking success. GM’s new Vehicle Intelligence Platform, or VIP, was designed with cybersecurity principles in mind, resulting in enhanced security controls and expanded protections.
Upgrade capabilities
GM Defense can upgrade current fleets of medium, heavy tactical or tracked vehicles and support new fleet of vehicles through their expertise in power & propulsion systems and through advanced mobility & autonomy capabilities.
17 Feb 23. Poland’s efforts to strengthen its MBT fleet funds US industrial base contract. The US Department of Defense contrives a shrewd fiscal plan to invest Polish foreign military sale funding to support the US industrial base. The Polish Government’s intention to acquire 116 M1A1 Abrams main battle tanks (MBTs) looks to be filtering down into the US industrial base.
The document includes detailed information on the manufacturers and suppliers and their products, along with contact details, to inform your purchasing decision.
The Polish intention to strengthen its MBT fleet follows a 16 February contract award to US-based defence firm, General Dynamics, to conduct turret armour swaps with Polish foreign military sale funding.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced Poland’s intention to procure these MBTs in December 2022. The agency stated that the deal would cost the Polish government an estimated $3.75bn.
The DSCA explained that “the proposed sale will improve Poland’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing a credible force that is capable of deterring adversaries and participating in NATO operations. Poland will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces”.
Meanwhile, the contract for turret armour swaps awarded to General Dynamics – amounting to $27,069,515 – has been partly financed by both the Fiscal 2022 Special Defence Acquisition funds and the 2023 foreign military sales (Poland) funds.
Standard fiscal practice
The US financing its own industrial base with money accrued from foreign military sales may appear, at first, to be disconcerting.
It could be construed by some to be more evidence of American attempts to benefit economically from the growing security anxiety in Europe. This has been a popular argument made by European officials throughout the Russia-Ukraine war, particularly with claims the US price-hike their gas and oil supply.
However, it is within Europe’s wider interest for this shrewd business accounting considering the US has led NATO countries in its enormous and diverse support to Ukraine and its NATO allies.
The US has even provided cash injections to help bolster their defence needs. Poland is no exception having received $288.6m in foreign military financing in late September, 2022.
There has also been some concern that the US must look to bolster itself in other areas of its foreign policy, turning its eyes toward China as opposed to Russia, which has become a regional threat with its dwindling capacity and impact.
If US support is to continue, it is in the West’s interest for the US to sustain its production while avoiding financial constraint, leaving Europe to bolster its defence alone in the fight against Russia.
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