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28 Jul 23. Gabon’s Garde Republicaine receives four AML-90 armoured vehicles from France. Gabon has expanded the fleet of its Garde Republicaine with four AML-90 armoured reconnaissance vehicles from France, maintaining the unit’s reputation as the best equipped of the country’s military.
The Garde Republicane is the section of Gabon’s armed forces in charge of protecting the president and all presidential property.
President Ali Bongo Ondimba on Friday 21 July symbolically handed over the keys to the vehicles to the Commander of the Garde Republicaine, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, during a ceremony in the capital Libreville, attended by top brass of all units of Gabon’s military.
The arrival of the reconditioned vehicles from French company Sofema is a boost to the military a month before presidential elections. The Garde Republicaine also launched a massive recruitment drive this year to get more than 1 000 young Gabonese into the corps.
“The ceremony which has brought us here today is the reception of four new armoured vehicles which have just arrived on Gabonese soil. It’s a great honour for me, in my capacity as Commander-in-chief of the Garde Republicaine, to receive the equipment,” General Oligui Nguema told reporters after the ceremony which took place at the headquarters of the Armoured Intervention Unit of the Garde Republicaine.
The order for the four armoured vehicles was made in 2020, according to reporting by some Gabonese media. They were expected to have been delivered in the first two years of the order, but that was not possible due partly to the inability of the Gabonese government to complete the payment.
Last year, some reports also reported that the delivery of the AML-90s was partly also delayed after an inter-ministerial commission which regulates the export of war weapons (CIEEMG) from France raised concerns that the vehicles could be used by the Gabonese military to clamp down on any likely protests during the general elections in August. Huge protests broke out in some towns and cities in 2016 when incumbent Ali Bongo won re-election for another seven-year mandate.
The decision by the CIEEMG to halt the delivery of the vehicles, reportedly upon recommendation of the Directorate of Africa and the Indian Ocean at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is believed to have been reversed following negotiations when with Gabon’s Defence Minister Félicité Ongouori Ngoubili paid an official visit to Paris in October 2022.
The delivery of these armoured vehicles comes just weeks after Bongo, during a cabinet meeting late last month, approved proposals for a $52 million loan for the purchase of a single C295 military transport aircraft from Airbus for the air force.
Gabon has acquired numerous batches military hardware over the last decade. An August 2022 independence day parade revealed the country was operating VP11 4×4 vehicles acquired from China, although the VP11’s predecessor was designed with South African collaboration. Thirteen Norinco VP11s were seen along with Maverick 4×4, Aravis and VN1 8×8 armoured vehicles.
Other relatively recently delivered hardware includes Dongfeng EQ2050 vehicles and, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), 19 Type-07P infantry fighting vehicles. Gabon took delivery of eight Aravis IFVs from French company Nexter between 2015 and 2016 and 24 Matador APCs from Paramount in 2010. Five VAB-VTT vehicles were supplied second hand by France for Gabon’s UN peacekeeping forces.
(Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
28 Jul 23. Supacat and NP Aerospace Hand-Over Recovery Vehicles to the British Army. This week, Supacat and NP Aerospace will be delivering new Lightweight Recovery Vehicles to British Army units in Tern Hill and Leuchars as part of the UK Ministry of Defence Protected Mobility Engineering and Technical Support (PMETS) contract.
The Lightweight Recovery Vehicle (LWRV) designed by Supacat and NP Aerospace as engineering authority for PMETS have successfully reached Initial Operating Capability (IOC). They were presented to the Vehicle Support Team within DE&S at an event at Supacat facilities in Devon.
In June 2023, serving members from the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and Royal Irish Regiment received operational training on the vehicles, and this week they will receive their first vehicles. Later this year, the British Army will receive two further Supacat LWRV vehicles to fulfil their need for off-road capability in harsh environments like those encountered during Operation Newcombe in Mali, Africa.
LWRV has addressed the capability gap for a recovery vehicle with the off-road performance to follow the routes of the British Army’s High Mobility Transport (HMT) `Jackal` and `Coyote` vehicles, developed by Supacat. The solution utilises four in-service Jackal 2 vehicles with the addition of Supacat’s innovative ‘Extenda’ removable 3rd axle to provide the recovery module and configure the 4×4 Jackal 2 as the 6×6 `Coyote`. The LWRV solution incorporates Supacat’s patented ‘Supalift’ recovery system technology, enabling the recovery of both the Foxhound and HMT platforms.
Brigadier Matt Wilkinson, Vehicle Support Team Leader at DE&S, said: “The announcement of the Lightweight Recovery Variant reaching Initial Operating Capability is the product of fantastic collaboration between the British Army, Defence Equipment and Support, Supacat and NP Aerospace under the PMETS contract. We now have a Lightweight Recovery capability, which the British Army can exploit to inform the Army’s Future Soldier requirements for recovery vehicles.”
David Petheram, Managing Director & Senior Vice President, NP Aerospace, commented: The PMETS contract has run successfully for the last four years, delivering significant innovations that have benefited the British Army on operation. Achieving IOC is an important step in our lightweight recovery vehicle programme with Supacat and demonstrates our joint collaboration with industry partners for the benefit of the UK MOD.”
Phil Applegarth, Director and Head of Supacat, said: “We are thrilled to hand over new LWRV vehicles to the British Army in partnership with NP Aerospace. This solution fills a crucial capability gap and showcases the HMT’s modularity as a highly adaptable vehicle that can accommodate various system integrations based on operational needs. The LWRV has been equipped with a ground-breaking technology called “Supalift,” which significantly extends the lifting capacity of light vehicle recovery systems for the Army.”
28 Jul 23. Nurol Makina and NP Aerospace team up on Ejder Yalçin. Nurol Makina and NP Aerospace signed an agreement to form a joint venture (JV) in the UK at the 16th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) being held in Istanbul from 24 to 28 July, Janes has learnt. Emre Akin, head of strategic planning at Nurol Holding, told Janes on 27 July that the Turkish company’s Ejder Yalçın 4×4 tactical wheeled armoured vehicles would be produced in and marketed from the UK. “We want to increase the UK content in the vehicle,” he added.
He also revealed that later in 2023 two Ejder Yalçın 4×4 vehicles would undergo trials in Millbrook in the UK, where they would be put through the paces by the British Army.
At IDEF 2023, Nurol Makina also unveiled the NMS Light (NMS-L) 4×4 armoured vehicle. With a weight of 14 tonnes, the NMS-L – which combines scalable armour with composites – is lighter than the 18-tonne Ejder Yalçın. (Source: Janes)
28 Jul 23. Hanwha deal to bolster Australia’s defense capabilities in Indo-Pacific amid China’s growing influence, says GlobalData.
Following the news that Australia has selected Hanwha Defense’s AS21 Redback infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs);
Kandlikar Venkatesh, Defense Analyst at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers his view:
“The procurement of AS21 Redback IFVs aimed at replacing the obsolete M113 fleet will be a major enhancement to Australia’s defense capabilities, indicating the country’s commitment to modernizing its military infrastructure. Furthermore, the contract’s emphasis on domestic manufacturing aligns with the country’s focus on strengthening the local defense industry.
“The decision to award the IFVs contract to South Korean firm Hanwha Defense is significant from the perspective of the Indo-Pacific region (IOR). As a response to China’s increasing presence and influence in the IOR, the strategic defense collaboration between Australia and South Korea allows for intelligence sharing, joint military exercises, and defense cooperation, which collectively serve as a proactive measure to counterbalance China’s growing impact and assertiveness in the IOR.
“Amid the dynamic and evolving geopolitical landscape, Australia’s continuous investment in military land vehicles marks a crucial step in safeguarding the country’s interests and contributing to regional stability. According to GlobalData, Australia is projected to spend approximately $7.5 billion on military land vehicles over the next ten years to augment its defense capabilities. The latest procurement of AS21 Redbacks will enable Australia’s land forces to effectively respond to a wide range of threats while at the same time fostering cooperation with allies in the IOR.”
28 Jul 23. Redback, industrial diversification, nation building and the opportunities. Much of the commentary surrounding the success of Hanwha’s Redback family of Infantry Fighting Vehicles in the lucrative LAND 400 program has directly focused on the capability to be delivered to Army and rightfully so, but the opportunities go far beyond that.
Despite the ongoing debate around the global handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, for many nations, the pandemic served as a form of divine intervention, revealing foundations of sand and the vulnerability of over-dependence on the lowest cost proposition and globally, interdependent “just in time” supply chains.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent impact on critical supplies of liquid energy, grain, nitrate fertilisers, chemical precursors and a host of other supply chain constrictions, coupled with the rapid depletion of Western munitions stockpiles has further reinforced the inherent vulnerability across the globalised supply chains and industrial base.
The reality of this vulnerability has only been reinforced as the post-pandemic world has given way to an era of renewed great power competition and the emergence of an increasingly multipolar world defined by further constraint on globally, interdependent supply chains, mounting grey zone warfare, and a myriad of national security challenges impacting the security and sovereignty of many nations, including Australia.
This global shift towards multipolarity is only reinforced by the increasing multipolarity of the world beyond the “main event”, that is the US-China competition, as the increasing prominence of the BRICS member states, namely Brazil, Russia (albeit somewhat limited), India, South Africa, and the emerging list of BRICS “partners” or “adjacent” states eager to hasten the collapse of the post-Second World War order.
With each of these nations nailing their respective flags to the mast of this new era of great power competition, they have taken action to align their domestic and international policies behind a unified, yet nationally-focused strategic intent: the collapse of the post-Second World War economic, political, and strategic order and the rise of a contested, autocratic-heavy, deglobalised, and multipolar world.
Each of these factors combine to form one absolute and uncomfortable realisation: Australia’s record period of economic stability and prosperity, buoyed by the immense mineral and resource wealth, coupled with the benevolence of the post-Second World War political, economic, and strategic order is at an end, and it is time to respond accordingly.
Indeed, the last time Australia’s public policy community was called upon to respond to such a predicament was the combined challenges of the Great Depression and the Second World War, both of which had a dramatic impact on the national psyche and the post-war period of rebuilding and expansion.
But what does all of this have to do with Hanwha’s success in the multi-billion dollar, LAND 400 Phase 3 program? Well surprisingly, quite a lot if the long-term objectives of Hanwha, as explained by Hanwha Defense Australia’s Richard Cho in an interview in late-2019 are to be believed:
“One of the key benefits for both Australia and Korea is the proximity of Australian manufacturing centres to potential markets, combined with Korea’s pursuit of an advanced infantry fighting/armoured fighting vehicle, which the AS-21 Redback – Hanwha’s proposal for LAND 400 Phase 3 – will serve as the basis for, while the potential offering of the AS-9 self-propelled howitzer to the British Army provides further opportunities for Australian industry.” (Source: Defence Connect)
27 Jul 23. LiquidPiston, Inc., a leading innovator of efficient engine technology and hybrid power systems, today announced that it has been awarded an $8.3m contract by Parsons Corporation (NYSE: PSN) to revolutionize battlefield power generation for the U.S. Army. With this contract, the company will integrate its recently launched high-performance rotary X-Engine™, the XTS-210, into a lightweight, compact 10 kW generator set to be field-tested by the Army, delivering unmatched power flexibility and portability to the warfighter.
The LiquidPiston generator set (genset) will be approximately one-quarter the size and weight of the currently fielded Advanced Medium Mobile Power Source (AMMPS) generator system. Given its smaller footprint and inverter type operation, LiquidPiston’s new genset could replace multiple existing generator power classes with a single genset platform, greatly simplifying Army genset procurement and logistics.
“For our troops to successfully operate around the world, having a reliable, lightweight power source is imperative,” said Col. Kathy M. Brown, Project Manager, Expeditionary Energy & Sustainment Systems, U.S. Army. “By significantly reducing the challenges of delivering essential power to our personnel, often operating in remote or contested terrain, this new capability will help improve military effectiveness and protect American lives.”
Leveraging LiquidPiston’s patented High Efficiency Hybrid Thermodynamic Cycle™ (HEHC) and compact, heavy-fueled rotary engine, the new genset will offer several key benefits:
- Lightweight – 75 percent lighter and smaller than the currently-fielded AMMPS
- Easy to transport – can be man-portable, instead of requiring a truck, trailer, or forklift
- Space-efficient – occupies only ~9 cubic feet of space
- Fuel-efficient – targeted to use up to 8% less fuel
Current military mobile generators are too heavy and inefficient for modern use cases, which also makes them a potential hazard; during the height of the combat in Iraq and Afghanistan, approximately one-half of American casualties were sustained while moving fuel to the front. With the power density of LiquidPiston’s 10 kW genset, nearly 4x the power could be deployed to the battlefront for the same transport volume as currently-fielded gensets; this would reduce the frequency of refueling and therefore the risk to the troops.
“Imagine the possibilities that are created when soldiers no longer have to haul a massive and inefficient generator on a towed trailer. This generator can have a revolutionary impact on the lives – and the mission success – of our armed forces,” said Dr. Alec Shkolnik, co-founder and CEO of LiquidPiston. “This award demonstrates a deep commitment by the Army to help LiquidPiston develop an ultra-light and portable power generation system, first for military applications and later for a range of commercial applications in the over $4B global portable generator market.”
LiquidPiston’s award supports an existing $14.9m Other Transaction Award (OTA) prime contract for U.S. Army Expeditionary Intelligent Tactical and Expeditionary Power that was awarded to Polaris Alpha Advanced Systems, a Parsons Company, by the Department of Defense Ordnance Technology Consortium (DOTC) in 2022. Through this contract, Polaris Alpha Advanced Systems is providing research and development to deliver reliable, adaptable, and reconfigurable power that meets extended power needs for the growing number of tactical electronic devices utilized in increasingly complex and remote battlegrounds.
LiquidPiston’s generator solution is the result of decades of engine research and development, coupled with more than 10 contracts secured with the U.S. Department of Defense and over $20m awarded in development funding over the past 24 months, including a $9m DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory award for a Compact Efficient Rotary Engine announced last fall and a $8.3m award from DEVCOM C5ISR Center for the development of Light Weight High Efficiency Generators. It will serve as a building block that will yield a family of modernized Tactical Electric Power (TEP) sources with similar efficiency and size reduction benefits.
To learn more about LiquidPiston’s genset, please visit https://www.liquidpiston.com/xts-210-engine-liquidpiston-2.
About LiquidPiston
LiquidPiston, Inc., a technology startup based in Bloomfield, CT, is leading the power systems industry’s development of combustion engines that are scalable (from one horsepower (HP) to over 1,000), compact (delivering 1.5 HP/lb), and capable of utilizing efficient fossil or renewable fuel. The company’s patented High Efficiency Hybrid Cycle™ (HEHC) and engine architecture innovation support next-generation fuel-energy conversion solutions for hybrid power systems, including for UAS, mobile power generation, and APU applications.
27 Jul 23. Swedish Armored Terrain Vehicle 300 at the Life Guard: the New Vehicle for the Defense of Stockholm. Soon, new armored all-terrain vehicles will roll into Kungsängen’s garrison. Armored All-terrain Vehicle 300 will be delivered from August onwards – now the Lifeguard is preparing for the first delivery.
The army is growing and in the defense of Sweden, armored personnel carriers must transport many of the soldiers who defend the land surface from the ground. New armored all-terrain vehicles are to further increase the army’s capabilities, and in the defense of Stockholm, the new Pansarterrängbil 300 is an important part. Therefore, the Lifeguard will be assigned a larger number of the vehicle in the next few years – the first ones will already arrive after the summer.
Preparations are underway
The Life Guard is already preparing to receive the vehicles. Several officers have undergone both technical training and driver training at the Finnish manufacturer Patria. Björn Rosenblad, director of the Lifeguard’s mechanic school for armored all-terrain vehicles, was in Finland to train on the vehicle’s technical parts:
“We gained system technical knowledge of the vehicle. For example, how maintenance is carried out, how to take out engine units and the like. During the conscription training, we who have been trained on Pansarterrängbil 300 from the mechanic school will train conscript mechanics on the vehicle system during their basic training.”
An important piece of the puzzle in the army’s development
The Lifeguard is the first unit of the Armed Forces to operate the Armored Terrain Vehicle 300, and is initially receiving a pre-series of the vehicle.
“Since the first vehicles are pre-production, we will carry out tests and evaluation together with the Ground Combat School. The experiences from that will then be used in full-rate production. So, the Life Guard is an important part of the introduction process, where we can influence how the future vehicles should look in order to function as well as possible,” says Major Jonas Landqvist, responsible for Armored Terrain Vehicle 300 introduction at the Life Guard.
Once the pre-production vehicles have been evaluated, the full-rate production Pansarterrängbil 300 will be delivered to the regiment. The Life Guard will be the unit that has the largest number of the new vehicles, which will play an important role in building up the brigade that will emerge from the regiment.
“These vehicles are suitable for the defense of Stockholm. They are also technically simple, are easier to train on and also provide better visibility for the driver and vehicle commander compared to today’s Armored Terrain Vehicle 360,” says Jonas Landqvist.
About Panzerterrängbil 300
— Length: 7.5 m
— Width: 2.9 m
— Maximum speed: >100 km/h
— Axles: 3, all-drive
— Space for 10 soldiers + driver and vehicle commander
— Civil designation: Patria 6×6
— Advantages: technically simple system, good visibility for driver and vehicle commander
— Main purpose: troop transport. Production vehicles will also have variants with custom capabilities, such as weapon carriers and ambulance vehicles.
(defense-aerospace.com Editor’s Note: The Patria 6×6 vehicle has been developed by Finland’s Patria together with Sweden, Finland, Latvia, Germany and Estonia. The goal is to create a common platform, something that not only simplifies maintenance but also brings a high degree of interoperability between the nations.
The Life Guard Regiment will receive 20 new six-wheeled vehicles for troop transport. From the end of 2024, a further 400 vehicles will be delivered to artillery, engineering and anti-aircraft units.)
(Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com)
(Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ Swedish Armed Forces)
27 Jul 23. Textron Systems, Team Lynx OMFV Manufacturer, Moves Ahead to Program Phases 3 and 4. Textron Systems Corporation announced today that the company will move ahead into Phases 3 and 4 of the U.S. Army’s Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV), now known as XM3Ø combat fighting vehicle program as the designated manufacturer of Team Lynx, led by American Rheinmetall Vehicles. Team Lynx’s OMFV offerings for the Detailed Design and Prototype Build & Test phases leverage Textron Systems’ vehicle production capabilities based in Slidell, Louisiana.
A multidomain industry leader in air, land and sea platforms; weapon systems; electronic systems; propulsion; and test, training and simulation, Textron Systems has more than 50 years of armored vehicle expertise. The company’s Slidell, Louisiana, facility has produced more than 10,000 vehicles for over 15 domestic and international programs. In addition, Textron Systems brings decades of experience in the design, manufacturing, systems integration and support for uncrewed and robotic platforms across air, land and sea.
“Textron Systems’ combat vehicle manufacturing facility, uncrewed and robotic platform experience, and highly skilled talent further strengthen the low-risk Team Lynx offering for the Army’s next great American infantry fighting vehicle,” said Senior Vice President Land Systems and Sea Systems David Phillips. “Already honored to support numerous U.S. Army modernization programs across domains, we stand ready to deliver an OMFV that delivers decisive overmatch.”
The Team Lynx OMFV is designed to achieve the Army’s combat vehicle modernization priorities, but with an open systems architecture that will enable persistent modernization to support infantry formations for years to come. In addition, a modular design and powerful new chassis enable the system to meet rigorous operational demands in a variety of vehicle configurations. Developed and manufactured in America, Textron Systems and American Rheinmetall Vehicles are joined on Team Lynx by Raytheon Technologies, L3Harris Technologies, Allison Transmission and Anduril Industries.
Textron Systems is a world leader in unmanned air, surface and land products, services and support founded on the combined expertise in our family of brands that includes Textron Systems, Howe & Howe, Lycoming, and ATAC. We harness the unlimited power of teamwork to solve incredible problems across seven specialized domains: air, land, sea, propulsion, weapon systems, electronic systems and test, training & simulation. From product development and manufacturing to training, operations and support, we integrate and offer ingenious and advanced solutions to support defense, aerospace, and other customer missions. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ Textron Systems;)
10 Jul 23. Royal Canadian Regiment Trials Armed ATVs. Weapons integrated included installation of the TOW anti-tank guided missile, the M2 .50 Caliber Heavy Machine Gun, and the H&K C16 40mm Automatic Grenade Launcher. Aspects of the weapon configurations considered included technical compatibility with the MRZR platform and confirmation of its mobility, stability, transportability, and firing suitability. The RCR further explored the tactical employment of the armed light vehicles during the exercise.
Polaris All-Terrain Vehicles have been in use by three Canadian Forces infantry battalions since 2017 when it acquired and fielded the MRZR-D through a competed buy-and-try. Each of the three battalions received twelve MRZRs and four specifically designed tactical trailers for evaluation. This Light Force Enhancement project is aimed toward enhancing mobility, tactical communications, and dismounted weapon systems such as medium range anti-armour, indirect fire, and lightweight protection.
The light utility vehicle, which would be transportable by CH-47F Chinook helicopter and CC-130J aircraft, initially considered reconnaissance, advanced force elements, for combat service support and casualty evacuation. The use of the MRZR equipped with heavy infantry weapons in Exercise LETHAL WEAPON is the first demonstration of this tactical concept by the Canadian Forces. Versions of the Polaris MRZR have also been fielded by the British Royal Marines and by the US Marine’s ULTV (Ultra Light Tactical Vehicle).
In 2020 the Directorate of Land Requirements project team announced a requirement for the “Tactical Mobility Platform” (TMP). This vehicle would support light infantry in reaching off-road objectives far quicker and easier than by foot.
Major Tony Ross, project director for Light Force Enhancement (LFE), at the time of the announcement explained “the platform would include combat and cargo variants, along with trailers. It should be capable of transporting enough equipment, including weapons, ammunition and water, to sustain soldiers for 48 to 72 hours. Each TMP will be operated by one driver, with space on the top for a gunner who will be able to operate the section’s heavy weapon systems, up to a TOW missile or automatic grenade launcher system.” Final quantities have yet to be determined, but the plan includes enough for the Army’s three light infantry battalions, as well as the three light engineer squadrons and three light artillery tactical groups. Initial estimates suggest “a requirement of between 300 and 330 ultra-light tactical mobility platforms,” said Ross, “210 to 230 of the tactical variants and 90 to 100 of the cargo variants.”
The TMP will be acquired through a competitive bid process with an RFi having been released.
In consideration of the TMP objectives the RCR practical evaluation of the technical feasibility and tactical employment of its armed light ATV 4x4s appears to have proved valuable. Major Samir Khelil, a DLR project officer at the trials, observed “these verified the need in TMP for a suspension suited for the .50 recoil and a greater payload for three-days operations”. The Directorate of Land Requirements is pursuing further discussions with interested vendors. (Source: Armada)
27 Jul 23. Kraken Technology Group has announced a strategic partnership with Cosworth around the development of advanced battery solutions for its littoral defence and security range.
Cosworth, a British high-performance engineering company, is renowned for powertrain development, electronics and alternative propulsion solutions for the automotive, marine and aerospace sectors.
Initial focus is around the Kraken MANTA platform, a range of autonomous uncrewed surface subsurface vessels designed specifically to address a growing range of ISR mission and deployment capability requirements. As acknowledged experts in electric technology, Cosworth will work closely with Kraken on the development of advanced battery systems, capable of powering Kraken maritime platforms in faster, more efficient and disruptive ways.
Kraken’s electric propulsion expertise was pioneered in 2018 when it successfully broke the UIM Outright Maritime Electric Speed World Record delivering an average speed of
88.61mph in a globally publicised event at Coniston. This milestone success provided the foundations for development and adaptation of racing technology for defence and security applications.
Mal Crease, Founder and CEO of Kraken Technology Group, commented:
“In Cosworth we have identified a similar progressive approach coupled with a disruptive mindset and both are vital to the development of Kraken’s electric powertrain aspirations. Today we again embark on a journey to further challenge the limits of maritime electric propulsion, above and below the surface.”
Simon Dowson, Managing Director, High Performance Battery Systems, added:
“The alternative propulsion arm of Cosworth has been developing high-performance batteries for well over a decade. We believe that partnering with Kraken is a perfect showcase of our capabilities in boundary pushing applications such as the advanced vessels for which Kraken is known. The learnings from this partnership will also prove to be essential for our marine offering moving forward.”
Kraken is leading change by drawing inspiration from other cutting-edge technologies and industries to deliver a pioneering new approach to the advanced maritime sector. The team is focused on development and manufacture of advanced composite materials, prototype vessels, autonomous technologies and advanced powering solutions, delivering real-world advantage to the defence and security industries.
26 Jul 23. Lithuania picks Leopard 2 tank over Abrams, Black Panther. Lithuanian Defense Minister Arvydas Anušauskas has announced the country’s government aims to sign a letter of intent with Germany to purchase Leopard 2 tanks for the land forces.
“The Defence Resources Council of the Ministry of National Defence, taking into account the detailed market analysis and military assessment carried out by the Lithuanian Armed Forces and the Defence Resources Agency, has approved the proposal to … [propose] to the State Defence Council to send a letter of intent to the German Ministry of Defence regarding the acquisition of Leopard tanks,” he wrote in a Facebook post.
The Lithuanian military evaluated “the German Leopard, the American Abrams and the [South] Korean Black Panther tanks,” according to the minister.
The key evaluation criteria the military used to select its preferred vehicle included the price and maintenance costs, operational environment, mobility, safety, adaptability, protection, firepower, and interoperability, Anušauskas said.
He did not disclose the estimated value of the planned procurement and the number, or variant, of Leopard 2 tanks to be purchased.
The latest development comes after Lithuania’s chief of defense, Lt. Gen. Valdemaras Rupšys, said in March the Baltic nation intends to acquire up to 54 tanks to bolster the combat capacities of the land forces. Under the plan, Lithuania is to establish a division-sized unit within its armed forces in reaction to Russia’s ongoing invasion of its neighbor Ukraine. The unit will include infantry fighting vehicles and tanks, among other vehicles. The State Defence Council approved the initiative in May. A growing number of Eastern European allies are advancing plans to acquire German-made tanks. Among others, the Czech Republic is planning to buy up to 50 new Leopard 2A7+ tanks. (Source: Defense News)
25 Jul 23. Congolese military operating MCAV-20 armoured vehicles. The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC’s) Republican Guard confirmed it is operating Calidus MCAV-20 armoured vehicles on 22 July, when a significant number were displayed on the streets of the capital, Kinshasa. The presidential office said two groups from the Republican Guard conducted an endurance march through the streets of Kinshasa. “This march is one of the normal activities of the Republican Guard, namely maintaining the physical fitness of the units and reassuring the population of the presence of the armed forces at its side,” it quoted Major General Ephraim Kabi Kiriza, the force’s commander, as saying.
While no armoured vehicles were seen in a similar event held on 12 February 2022, social media coverage of the 2023 march showed the Republican Guard columns that moved through the capital included MCAV-20s. Videos showed the vehicles’ license plates ran from 001.11.23 to 030.01.23, suggesting 30 were delivered earlier in 2023. (Source: Janes)
26 Jul 23. USARCENT’s 1st TSC Demonstrates Autonomous Vehicles in Kuwait. The 1st Theater Sustainment Command, a subordinate command of U.S. Army Central, demonstrated three autonomous vehicles at the Udairi Range Complex near Camp Buehring, Kuwait, on 25 July, 2023. This is the first time these ground-breaking systems were publicly displayed in the U.S. Central Command region.
The vehicles, three Palletized Loading Systems or “PLS”, are intended to decrease risk during combat operations by reducing the manpower required by traditional, non-autonomous systems. PLSs are ten wheeled logistics vehicles first introduced in the early 1990s. They are designed to transport palletized loads or containers in support of both combat and non-combat operations.
USARCENT is testing the new autonomous operating systems installed on these PLSs over the coming months in various locations in the CENTCOM region. During the demonstration, the autonomous vehicles navigated a short off-road course without Soldiers giving driver inputs to the trailing vehicles.
“Based on our experience, these autonomous vehicles allow a smaller number of Soldiers to accomplish larger missions,” said Brig. Gen. Maria A. Juarez, 1st TSC Deputy Commanding General. “We gained insights during these tests into possible future technologies that remove Soldiers from harm’s way while enhancing distribution capabilities.”
Task Force 39, the USARCENT organization focused on innovation and modernization, organized the testing facilitated by sustainment personnel from the 1st TSC’s 371st Sustainment Brigade. The vehicles arrived in Kuwait in early July and will be incorporated into various exercises over the next several months. The unique environment of northern Kuwait provided an opportunity to test the vehicles in an incredibly difficult climate.
“Our units and Soldiers train and perform their assigned missions in challenging terrain and environments, from moving equipment from ports across the CENTCOM area of operations to tactical movement in a field setting,” said Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank, the USARCENT Commanding General. “The driver’s training we are conducting with the autonomous vehicle PLS trucks presents our Soldiers with the ability to be on the cutting edge of innovation and apply industry leading technology to the battlefield. The U.S. Army and CENTCOM are driving this approach to innovation and modernization.”
Previously tested on a smaller scale in the United States, USARCENT is incorporating these autonomous vehicles into sustainment units in Kuwait to provide a greater quantity of real-world data.
“USARCENT and CENTCOM are leading the way in innovation for the Department of Defense,” said Chief Warrant Officer 4 Ricky Horne, USARCENT’s senior ordnance ground maintenance officer who helped organize the testing. “We are excited to test ground-breaking technologies, like autonomous vehicles, within our organization to generate the most realistic tests results possible.”
United States Army Central is the U.S. Army Service Component Command for United States Central Command and is responsible to the Secretary of the Army for the support and administration of more than 12,000 Soldiers, including those assigned to joint task forces and embassies, across the 21 countries in the CENTCOM Area of Responsibility. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ US Central Command)
26 Jul 23. Australia reveals Hanwha as winner of LAND 400 Phase 3. The Australian government has formally revealed the long awaited winner of the multi-billion dollar LAND 400 Phase 3 program which will transform the Army’s combined arms combat capabilities.
Defence Connect reported that Hanwha Defense Australia has been successful in their bid to provide the Australian Army with a fleet of 129 infantry fighting vehicles as part of the long running LAND 400 Phase 3 program.
The fleet of vehicles will be manufactured in Australia at the company’s AU$170m dollar Geelong plant and has long been billed as a secondary supply source for South Korea should the relationship with its Communist neighbour deteriorate into conflict.
It is understood that the Redback performed marginally better than its German competitor, the KF-41 Lynx, with Defence deferring the decision ultimately to Government as both vehicles were deemed “suitable” for Defence’s requirements.
This long running selection process was subject to a recent cut as a result of findings in the Albanese Government’s Defence Strategic Review, which saw the program scaled back from up to 450 vehicles to just 129 vehicles as part of a larger ‘reprioritisation’ of Army investment and reorientation of capability.
Hanwha’s Redback is a next-generation IFV developed specifically for the Australian Infantryman with advantages literally built into it from the ground up.
Equipped with advanced situational awareness systems normally found on jet fighters such as see through vision and helmet slaved systems, the Redback rides on rubber tracks that reduce noise and vibration while offering superior ride quality for its crew and the soldiers it protects
The vehicle boasts an advanced layered protection system including Elbit’s active protection system, Plasan’s world-class armour and a structure designed to protect occupants from the effects of blast. All this is supported by an independent suspension system which does not use torsion bars thus supplying more space for innovative blast mitigation systems which remove the dependence on old fashioned suspended footrests and other design constraints.
Redback’s main armament is a Mk44S Bushmaster II 30mm cannon capable of firing all natures of 30mm x 173mm ammunition in service with 19 nations, including the US, the UK, and other allies and NATO forces. The cannon fires ammunition from numerous providers, including advanced munitions such as proximity fused rounds. Every cannon is fitted with a fuse setter for programmable rounds such as programmable air burst munition and proximity fused rounds. It can also be rapidly upgraded to the 40mm Supershot by exchanging three parts, giving increased lethality without the need to modify the turret or cannon.
The Redback is also armed with a 7.62mm co-axially mounted machine gun, and the Electro Optic System’s remote weapons station can be fitted with a range of weapons including 7.62mm machine gun, .50 calibre machine and an automatic grenade launcher.
Hanwha has focused their integration efforts on improving interoperability between high-tech components while maximising protection, utility and vision for the crew.
According to the PricewaterhouseCoopers report commissioned by Hanwha in 2021, the company’s LAND 400 Phase 3 Australian industry capability package will generate $9bn in total economic impacts across Australia with $5.7bn generated in Victoria.
(Source: Defence Connect)
BATTLESPACE Comment: This is a key win for Hanwha against the strong industrial might of Rheinmetall, which clearly demonstrates the technical prowess of Redback over Lynx in Trials. Unconfirmed sources suggest that the Lynx suffered a number of engine fires during the Trials as well as Lance turret issues. The engine is a commercial engine modified for military use. The Lynx KF41 features the latest generation of propulsion technology with an 850 kW (1140hp) Liebherr engine and a proven Renk transmission. A flexible suspension system has been developed by Supashock, an Australian company, meaning the Lynx can be configured to carry various mission kits and survivability packages without compromising mobility. When configured for mounted combat operations with the Lance 2.0 turret and a survivability package suitable for peer-on-peer combat, the Lynx KF41 weighs approximately 44 tonnes. In this configuration it provides class leading mobility due the high power-to-weight ratio of 26 hp/t, while still leaving up to six tonnes of reserve payload for future growth. Other militaries, particularly the British Army will be looking at the detail of the winning bid as they prepare for new fleets of APCs. The British Army is extending Warrior to 2035 as an Out Of Service Date, so the hunt for a replacement will be evident at DSEI. Hanwha are believed to have discussed Redback with Army HQ in 2020 to build a Hanwha industrial presence alongside the K9 Thunder bid for MFP; Team Thunder will likely be involved in any Redback bid. Lynx has been under consideration by DE&S at Abbey Wood for some time whilst Boxer has also been touted as a Warrior replacement but a tracked APC is needed to keep up with Challenger 3, so Tracked Boxer will also be seen as a contestant given the UK Industrial base.
25 Jul 23. EU issues verdict over Edge Group’s takeover of Milrem Robotics. The European Union’s executive branch has delivered a verdict after a five-months-long security review of Milrem Robotics’ participation in current and future defense cooperation projects under its new Emirati ownership.
The European Commission’s assessment, which began in March following Milrem’s takeover by Edge Group, has ruled in favor of involving the Estonian firm in collaborative defense programs, such as the integrated Modular Unmanned Ground System project, or iMUGS.
“The project [iMUGS] is still eligible. The guarantees presented by Estonia make Milrem compliant,” an EU official told Defense News this week.
What this decision implies is twofold. On the one hand, it conveys that Milrem will continue as lead contractor in possible follow-on iMUGS initiatives while also being allowed to take part in other European Defence Fund and Permanent Structured Cooperation projects.
On the other, it backs that any project-related information will stay in the EU sphere, and shows an easing of concerns that foreign ownership could undermine the bloc’s wider security interests.
Earlier this year, a Milrem spokesperson told Defense News that the company already had in place legal boundaries restricting the sharing of confidential EU and NATO intellectual property information with Edge Group.
Asked about the final decision, Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem, said the firm has “very strict internal policies in place, and that is now also assessed by the European Commission.”
The previous responsible official for iMUGS with the Estonian government, Martin Jõesaar, declined to comment, citing his ongoing work with the commission.
The Milrem case represented the first of its kind, where a third party gained external control of a key company while it was leading one of the most prominent European robotics programs. (Source: Defence Connect)
25 Jul 23. German leadership takes closer look at Boxer CRV. German military leadership has taken a closer look at the combat capabilities of the Australian-made Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicle during Exercise Talisman Sabre. Chief of the German Army Lieutenant General Alfons Mais headed a German delegation visiting the Townsville Field Training Area, where about 210 German troops are taking part in Talisman Sabre for the first time. Following a tour of the surrounding bush in the Army Boxer, he said getting used to the Australian conditions was one of the challenges for the German military personnel taking part in the exercise.
“The distances, the terrain, and the climate are completely different than in Central Europe,” Lieutenant General Mais said.
As well as experiencing the Australian conditions, he said one of the key objectives for the German personnel is to build relationships while on Talisman Sabre.
“This exercise is very exciting for our personnel and as well as testing our preparedness and procedures, I want our personnel to gain experience of the country and build relationships,” Lieutenant General Mais said.
“We share a lot in common with Australia and the region and we want to portray ourselves as a reliable partner.”
Officer Commanding of A Squadron 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment Queensland Mounted Infantry Major Katherine Clarkson said Australia was fortunate to receive a visit from the German Chief of Army.
“This gave us a chance to demonstrate how the Boxer is being utilised here so that we can continue to develop as two nations on this platform and make it a highly lethal reconnaissance and infantry support, fire support vehicle to go against our mutual enemies,” MAJ Clarkson said.
“Our primary responsibility and role is the reconnaissance of enemy forces forward of the two combat brigades. The Boxer CRV is an excellent vehicle to enable us to achieve that reconnaissance in deep.” (Source: Defence Connect)
25 Jul 23. Otokar showcases 11 armored vehicles at IDEF 2023. Türkiye’s global defense industry Otokar unveils the country’s first heavy-class tracked and armored unmanned ground vehicle ALPAR at IDEF ‘23.
– ARMA II makes its debut at IDEF ‘23.
– ARMA II 8×8 Mobile Repair and Recovery Vehicle and AKREP II R Reconnaissance and Surveillance Vehicle are unveiled during the fair.
– ARMA 6×6 Armored Personnel Carrier, AKREP II 4×4, TULPAR tracked armored combat vehicle, COBRA II Armored Medical Evacuation Vehicle and COBRA II Armored Personnel Carrier, and URAL Armored Personnel Carrier are the vehicles to be exhibited at the Otokar booth.
– Otokar’s 30mm turret system MIZRAK with anti-tank missile capability is displayed on the ARMA II 8×8.
Otokar, A Koç Group company and the global land systems manufacturer of Türkiye, showcases its world-renowned military vehicles and turret systems at IDEF ‘23, the 16th edition of the IDEF Defense Industry Fair, on July 25-28, 2023. During the 4-day fair at Tüyap Fair and Congress Center, Otokar exhibits 11 military vehicles, its turret systems and introduces ARMA 8×8 Driver Gunner Training Simulator. Meanwhile Otokar’s ARMA 8×8 Low Altitude Air Defense Vehicle and ARMA 6×6 HPEM Vehicle are showcased at the Aselsan booth during the fair.
Otokar, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, will once again make its mark on the exhibition with its armored vehicles recently added to its product range. Current and prospective users visiting the Otokar booth will find the opportunity to see the company’s new land systems solutions for the first time, as well as its wide product range. At the largest defense industry event of the region, Otokar will unveil ALPAR, the very first heavy-class tracked and armored unmanned ground vehicle of Türkiye, and ARMA II 8×8 armored vehicle. The Mobile Repair and Recovery Vehicle variant of ARMA II 8×8 and the AKREP II R Reconnaissance and Surveillance Vehicle will also make their debut.
“OTOKAR VEHICLES ARE IN SERVICE IN MORE THAN 40 COUNTRIES”
Stating that Otokar is the global land systems manufacturer of Turkiye, General Manager Serdar Görgüç said; “Nearly 33,000 military vehicles of Otokar currently serve in more than 40 friendly and allied countries on five continents, including the Turkish army and security forces. We strive to offer the best products and services to our users with our global know-how, engineering capabilities, R&D strength, and technological capabilities. We aim to meet the requirements of our users with effective land systems solutions against present and future threats.”
Serdar Görgüç said, “We take great pride in bringing the experience Otokar has gained in different climates and regions in Türkiye and around the world to vehicle development. We participate in various defense exhibitions worldwide to introduce our products, services, and capabilities to our potential users. This year at IDEF, we continue to lead in innovation of the country by unveiling the heavy-class tracked and armored unmanned ground vehicle ALPAR and ARMA II 8×8 armored vehicle. The two new variants of the ARMA II 8×8 and AKREP II will also be the most innovative vehicles showcased at the fair. In addition to being a company with outstanding technology transfer and local manufacturing capabilities, Otokar is also the pioneer in the Turkish land systems industry with a wide product range, engineering capabilities, production strength, and experience.”
Görgüç noted that Otokar allocates 7% of its revenues for R&D activities, emphasizing that continuous efforts to develop itself further and pioneer innovation are the drivers of the company’s success. “Our R&D spending amounted to EURO 307m in the last decade. With superior design, testing and manufacturing capabilities, we are able to respond to the evolving needs and requirements of our users in global markets. In 2022, Otokar’s defense industry exports accounted for 99% of its total defense revenue.”
A FIRST IN THE TURKISH DEFENSE INDUSTRY: ALPAR
Designed as an unmanned heavy ground vehicle, ALPAR marks a first for the Turkish defense industry. ALPAR, developed by Otokar as an unmanned platform capable of undertaking missions together with manned and unmanned assets in the battlefield to meet the needs of the armed forces for robotic and unmanned ground vehicles, has a maximum combat weight of 15 tons. Equipped with autonomous systems and AI systems, the vehicle is designed to reduce personnel risk on the battlefield, improve the success of high threat missions, conducting routine tasks, by reducing the number of personnel in the field using AI and data analytics, and increase efficiency in the battlefield by communicating with unmanned aerial vehicles and other assets in the battlefield. ALPAR stands out with a low thermal footprint, dimensions and weight to be airlifted, and a fast-change battery infrastructure. Moreover, ALPAR increases its mission capability with a mini-unmanned ground vehicle that it can carry.. With a modular design, ALPAR can be configured as a fire support vehicle, logistics support vehicle, air defense vehicle, and anti-tank vehicle suitable for missions such as advanced reconnaissance and surveillance. The vehicle, which features a serial hybrid electric drive system and runs in complete silence, can be operated autonomously with remote control. The vehicle is also equipped with Adaptive Drive Support Systems developed by Otokar. At IDEF ‘23, Otokar exhibits the variant of ALPAR, developed for reconnaissance and surveillance missions with Aselsan 25mm NEFER L Turret and Aselsan’s other mission equipment.
ARMA II 8×8 ARMORED VEHICLE
ARMA II 8×8 Armored Vehicle, developed by Otokar considering the most common asymmetrical threats today, is showcased with MIZRAK 30 OMTAS Turret at IDEF ‘23. ARMA II offers best-in-class ballistic, mine and improvised explosive device (IED) protection and optimal terrain capability. With a maximum payload of 40 tons, ARMA II comes with higher payload and improved protection, and can be configured for the integration of heavy weapon systems up to 120mm caliber. ARMA II is equipped with a 12.7-liter, 6-cylinder, turbodiesel, 720 HP engine. ARMA II offers a platform suitable for many different missions; from armored combat vehicle to armored personnel carrier; from command and control vehicles to air defense missions. With the extra interior volume provided by the expanded hull, ARMA II is the most superior vehicle in its class with the modularity to operate as a maintenance and repair vehicle or an ambulance.
AKREP II R FOR RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE MISSIONS
Another new vehicle that Otokar showcases at IDEF ‘23 is AKREP II R, the new variant of AKREP II, which comes with a low silhouette, agility, and terrain capability. Developed as a forward reconnaissance and surveillance vehicle, AKREP II R is capable of easily performing scouting and surveillance activities in proximity to the battlefield with its low silhouette and communicating the acquired information to a command and control center thanks to the on-board battlefield management system and the satellite communication system. The reconnaissance and surveillance system is integrated into the vehicle in a way to be completely concealed when not in use, thanks to an extendable mast embedded in the body. The vehicle also features a remote-controlled weapon system, which makes it possible to engage self-protection and/or destroy the detected targets in the nearby combat zone. With CBRN protection equipment, auxiliary power group, and other aids that can be added to the 3-personnel vehicle, the vehicle personnel are able to operate on the battlefield for days. During the fair, AKREP II R 4×4 Reconnaissance and Surveillance Vehicle is displayed with Keskin Turret, and the AKREP II 4×4 Armored Reconnaissance and Surveillance Vehicle and Weapons Platform with 90mm Turret.
THE MOBILE REPAIR AND RECOVERY VEHICLE VARIANT OF ARMA II SHOWCASES AT IDEF ‘23
The Mobile Repair and Recovery Vehicle variant of ARMA II 8×8 with a 720 HP engine, recovers damaged, overturned, sunken tracked and wheeled armored vehicles on the battlefield, performing all kinds of maintenance, repair and towing activities, ground leveling and removing obstacles able to carry out its activities quickly.
The vehicle has the same level of protection as Otokar’s existing 8×8 vehicles and is designed to protect its crew from the highest threats during a safe recovery mission in combat conditions. With dozer blade mounted on the front of the vehicle; it can perform operations such as position preparation, pit and trench closing. With long and high capacity boom crane; it can lift the turret and powerpack of armored vehicles under the most difficult conditions and transfer them to logistics vehicles. Thanks to the lifting and towing equipment specially designed for the vehicle, it has the capacity to tow another 8×8 vehicle which has a missing first axle on a carrier trailer. The high-capacity and long-rope main rescue winch can pull damaged vehicles in the field from a long distance to the safe zone. Otokar debuts the Mobile Repair and Recovery Vehicle variant of ARMA II 8×8 for the first time at IDEF ‘23.
Another ARMA vehicle that Otokar exhibits at its booth is ARMA 6×6, with Sarp Zafer Turret. Today, ARMA vehicles rank among the world’s best-in-class armored combat vehicles. Unlike many of its international counterparts, ARMA has quickly gained experience in different climate and terrain conditions and captured high sales volumes. Currently, more than 500 Otokar ARMA vehicles are used in different missions in various countries. ARMA has been tested in the toughest climates and on rough terrain by different clients in diverse locations worldwide from marshland to deserts, from the toughest winter conditions to tropical climates. As an ideal platform with a modular structure for various purposes, ARMA meets the survivability, protection level, and mobility requirements of modern armies for combat and peacekeeping missions. In addition to its high combat weight and spacious interiors, the ARMA range also draws attention with its low silhouette.
TULPAR ARMORED COMBAT VEHICLE
During IDEF ‘23, Otokar showcases two variants of TULPAR, which ranks among its world-renowned armored vehicles. TULPAR Armored Combat Vehicle stands out with mobility, high firepower, and survivability features. TULPAR is designed as a multi-purpose tracked vehicle with variants ranging from 28,000kg to 45,000kg to fully satisfy the future requirements. The forward-looking design approach to modularity increases 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, 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 and destruction power up to 105mm, TULPAR, with high mobility, 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 exhibits two different variants of TULPAR tracked armored vehicle, with Cockerill 3105 105mm armed turret and with Aselsan 35mm gun KORHAN Turret Systems at IDEF ‘23.
TWO VARIANTS OF COBRA II
COBRA II 4×4 tactical wheel armored vehicle offers high level of protection, payload, and large internal volume. In addition to superior mobility, COBRA II 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 fully executes the tasks expected in different missions. Preferred especially for offering a wide range of weapons integration and mission equipment options, COBRA II is successfully used for border protection as well as internal security and peacekeeping missions in Türkiye and export markets. 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 showcases COBRA II Armored Personnel Carrier variant with an on-board UAV Station and COBRA II Armored Medical Evacuation Vehicle at IDEF ‘23.
COBRA II Armored Personnel Carrier displayed at the fair features an on-board UAV Station by DASAL. Thanks to the developed technology, unlike other on-vehicle solutions, the UAV can take off / land from the moving vehicle, up to 30 km/h vehicle speed. The images obtained by the UAV are transmitted wirelessly to the Ground Control Station in the vehicle. The most important feature of the system is automatic swapping of charged and dead batteries of the UAV in the station less than a minute. In this way, the UAV provides continuous flight performance and continuous mission and flight competence while the vehicle is moving, without risking the users.
COBRA II Armored Medical Evacuation Vehicle is designed to provide high terrain capabilities with mine and ballistic protection, and intended to carry out all interventions expected from a standard medical evacuation vehicle. The COBRA II medical evacuation vehicle can deliver high performance even on wet and muddy terrain and enter into the heart of combat fields to evacuate wounded people and carry out emergency intervention in dangerous zones. In order to serve as a medivac vehicle, the height and width of the standard COBRA II were increased for the mission, creating more interior space. The rear door was specially designed as a ramp door for ease of loading stretcher(s). Available in two versions, COBRA II medical evacuation vehicle features a patient layout that can be configured by the crew, which include a driver, a commander and medical personnel, and accommodates up to 3 patients, either as 2 sitting and 1 on stretcher or 2 on stretchers.
URAL 4×4 FOR INTERNAL SECURITY MISSIONS
Another armored vehicle that Otokar showcases at the fair is URAL Armored Personnel Carrier. The URAL platform, a unique product of Otokar’s innovative approach, is designed as a versatile and modular solution to meet the requirements of different users for 4×4 armored or unarmored tactical vehicles in various configurations. With a modular structure and dimensions, the URAL platform can be easily adapted to different missions’ equipment, weapon systems, and configuration requirements. It is still used in various missions in Turkey and abroad. URAL Personnel Carrier is featured with the Open Turret system at IDEF ‘23.
NEW CAPABILITIES OF TURRET SYSTEMS
Otokar introduced anti-tank missile integration applied to its 30mm turret system at IDEF. Roketsan OMTAS launcher is integrated into Otokar’s MIZRAK 30 turret, giving anti-tank missile capability for the first time to a IFV turret system manufactured in Türkiye. MIZRAK turret, which can be integrated into all kinds of armored vehicles, now offers an effective solution for armored infantry combat vehicles with its medium-caliber cannon and anti-tank missile capabilities.
OTHER ARMA VARIANTS AT IDEF
At IDEF ‘23, two different variants of the ARMA vehicle are exhibited on 6×6 and 8×8 platforms. Otokar’s ARMA 8×8 Low Altitude Air Defense Vehicle and ARMA 6×6 HPEM Vehicle are showcased at the Aselsan booth during the exhibition.
24 Jul 23. U.S. Forces Validate Ship-to-Shore Logistics Capability at Talisman Sabre 23. Units participating in this year’s large-scale military exercise with Australia have demonstrated a key logistical capability critical for enabling U.S. and partner forces to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Hours after Talisman Sabre 23 kicked off in Sydney last week, more than 200 soldiers and sailors were putting the finishing touches on a three-mile-long fuel and water pipeline in Weipa, a remote mining town on Australia’s Cape York Peninsula.
The pipeline was pieced together using 19-foot tubes plucked from prepositioned stores staged throughout the theater. It was assembled as part of a joint petroleum over-the-shore operation designed to simulate the transfer of fuel pumped from an offshore vessel to inland distribution points used for operations in a resource-constrained environment.
On Saturday, sailors from Amphibious Construction Battalion 1 and active and reserve soldiers assigned to the Eighth Army, 475th Quartermaster Group and the 555th and 130th Engineer Brigade successfully connected the onshore pipeline to 175,000-gallon tanks aboard Australian commercial landing craft about 1,000 meters offshore.
While Army logisticians train similar fuel transfer techniques in controlled environments, the opportunity to train in an environment that reflects real world operational challenges will pay dividends, said Army Capt. Clovis Vaughn, the operations officer with the 475th Quartermaster Group.
“Seeing this happen for real makes us … a lot more confident that, if we have to go do this again for real somewhere in an environment very similar to this, we’re ready to go,” he said. “This has been a huge opportunity to really put in practice what we thought we could do and really validate those things.”
In addition to sustaining combat-ready forces in areas lacking permanent fuel infrastructure, the over-the-shore concept can also be used to shuttle fresh water to distribution points during humanitarian assistance operations.
The capability is particularly crucial for overcoming the unique logistical challenges posed by the Indo-Pacific. More than one-third of the countries in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s area of responsibility are small island nations separated by broad swaths of ocean.
The JPOTS operation reflects the key aims of Talisman Sabre, a biennial exercise designed to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific by strengthening partnerships and interoperability among key allies. The spelling of the name — sabre vs. saber — reflects which country is leading the exercise: Talisman Sabre when Australia leads and Talisman Saber when the U.S. leads.
Army Capt. Glenn Peebles, a petroleum platoon commander with Australia’s 9th Force Support Battalion who observed the JPOTS operation, said the exercise provided valuable insight as his unit prepares to field new fuel-delivery capabilities.
“There’s so much we can learn off each other,” he said. “And there’s a high likelihood that we will work together in different theaters in the coming years, so to consistently do it each year means that we’ll be ready to do it when we need to do it for real.”
Army Col. Margaret McGunegle, commander of the 130th Engineer Brigade, said the bonds formed at the soldier level through exercises like Talisman Sabre are key to U.S. success in the region.
“That’s what builds partnerships,” she said. “It’s people that have worked together, walked the same path, done exercises together for years and years. Those personal relationships, a lot of the times, are the ones that then can make some of these more strategic relationships work because they understand each other.” (Source: U.S. DoD)
24 Jul 23. Shadow Rider is Ready for Duty. The utilization of Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) is becoming increasingly common in the modern battlefield, where unconventional threats are inevitable. Unmanned systems have become the focus of modern armies with their superior capabilities that let them to take part in high and low intensity operations and hazardous environments, thereby their role has become increasingly indispensable.
In this direction, FNSS exhibited its unmanned ground vehicle “SHADOW RIDER” Heavy Class Unmanned Ground vehicle (H-UGV) concept which is based on the M113 platform, at the IDEF International Defense Industry Exhibition for the first time in 2019. Later, in 2021, the autonomous HUGV with an increased number of sensors selected according to the different conditions of the battlefield and situational awareness systems, was exhibited together with the software development simulator, again at the IDEF`21 Exhibition.
Today, the SHADOW RIDER has landed on the field as an optionally manned combat system with remote control or autonomous capability. SHADOW RIDER has been successfully used in an international military live exercise at the real-life operational scenario as a wingman. Many improvements have been implemented as a result of these field tests and exercises. With its design that allows the integration of useful payloads suitable for the mission, SHADOW RIDER concept has evolved into a family of autonomous unmanned ground vehicles that will serve in all kinds of missions, especially fire support.
FNSS’ concept is presented as a viable and adaptable solution that provides autonomous capability to a conventional land platform with a kit that can be integrated into any armoured ground vehicle. SHADOW RIDER has marked its position as Türkiye’s first and one of the key heavy UGVs in the world with TRL-6-7. New variants have been developed in accordance with different operational purposes, concepts specific to each variant have been created and detailed designs according to each concept have been shaped. The vehicle can serve as an ambulance variant with stretcher inside for transporting the wounded in need, can be used as a logistics support vehicle by integration of the necessary mission equipment for load-transport missions. SHADOW RIDER concept can serve as a fire support vehicle with weapon system integration as well as a command vehicle, tactical deception vehicle and engineer reconnaissance vehicle. Joint operation studies of IKA-IKA and IKA-UAV were also carried out.
With its increased correspondence performance and limits, and matured detection algorithms, SHADOW RIDER has reached a much higher level of technological readiness in areas such as speed and direction stabilization, route tracking, autonomous patrol, convoy tracking, drivable area detection and obstacle avoidance. With its increased security measures and performance, and its user interface developed in line with experience, is waiting to meet with the visitors at IDEF 2023.
In the concept of SHADOW RIDER which will be exhibited at the FNSS stand, to show that more than one mission can be performed, a stretcher has been integrated for the casualty evacuation where it can also be easily adapted to carry supplies and materials within the scope of logistics support missions. In addition, to show that it can serve as a fire support vehicle and provide protection to the units, the SHADOW RIDER is equipped with the SANCAK RWS, different than the previous IDEFs. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/FNSS)
24 Jul 23. Another Batch of ŻMIJA Long-Range Reconnaissance Vehicles Has Been Delivered to Reconnaissance Units. On July 20, the second tranche of 35 ŻMIJA long-range reconnaissance vehicles was handed over to the soldiers of the Polish Armed Forces. The beneficiaries of the latest delivery are military units deployed near the eastern state border.
Deliveries of the ŻMIJA long-range reconnaissance vehicles are the result of the contract concluded on September 6, 2017 between the Armament Inspectorate (currently the Armament Agency) and the consortium consisting of: Polski Holding Obronny Sp. z o. o. and Concept Sp z o. o. Pursuant to the contract, the contractor will deliver 118 ŻMIJA vehicles to the Polish Armed Forces. The first batch, consisting of 25 vehicles and constituting the first stage of the contract, was handed over in December 2021. The ŻMIJA vehicles are based on a modified Mitsubishi L200 chassis, have a 180 HP diesel engine with a maximum torque of 430 Nm and are equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox and a transfer and reduction gearbox with an interaxle differential lock. (Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com) (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ Polish Armament Agency)
24 Jul 23. Minister Černochová: We Perceive the Biggest Threats of the Present in the Same Way as Germany. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is on a two-day visit to the Czech Republic. He and the Minister of Defense Jana Černochová today visited the National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich, and then discussed current and future defense cooperation at the Ministry of Defense.
Today’s visit by the Minister of Defense of the Federal Republic of Germany was another important milestone in Czech-German relations. Boris Pistorius became the first German Minister of Defense to visit the crypt of the Church of St. Cyril and Methodius, in which Czech paratroopers defended themselves against encirclement during World War II. In addition to the crypt itself, the minister also visited the temple and laid flowers at the monument to the heroes of the Heydrich.
The interconnection of the two countries is huge not only in the economic and cultural fields, but also in the defense area. Germany is a strategic partner of the Czech Republic, and the closeness of the two countries is also confirmed by the Strategic Dialogue between the Czech Republic and Germany, launched in 2015. “The Czech Republic is not only one of our most important neighbors in Europe. We have a common border of 814 km. On the one hand, this border is primarily a unifying element. At the same time, it offers many opportunities for strategic cooperation. Both politically, strategically and militarily. For that serious case we all want to prevent. This is precisely why this long border is so important for cooperation. Military, but also in matters of arms cooperation. Joint exercises, joint purchases, such as in the case of 77 Leopard tanks,” said Minister Pistorius.
Regular meetings of the Security and Defense working group take place at the level of the defense departments. The ministers agreed that it would be appropriate to raise the representation at the meetings of this group to the level of deputies.
Cooperation has intensified in recent months – in connection with the conflict in Ukraine. Czech and German units are deployed together in multinational NATO battlegroups in Lithuania and Slovakia. Berlin intends to further strengthen its presence on NATO’s eastern flank – Boris Pistorius announced in June that he would gradually station a robust brigade of 4,000 people permanently in Lithuania. “Germany was the eastern wing of NATO until the end of the Warsaw Pact. We have always been able to rely on partners from NATO countries to defend our security and freedom. Therefore, we know very well how important the presence of allies is and how important the protection of the new eastern flank is today,” Pistorius said.
Minister Černochová agreed with her German colleague that the two countries will continue to strengthen cooperation, with particular emphasis on joint action on the eastern border of the Alliance and joint training of the armed forces.
Negotiations at the level of defense ministers took place after three years, and Minister Černochová is in favor of even more frequent meetings: “I consider the area of defense to be a very important part of the Strategic Dialogue. We must continue to strengthen cooperation at all levels,” she declared.
Another topic of joint discussion was the issue of recruiting new soldiers. “Both of our countries are struggling with how best to motivate young people to want to serve in the military, or at least in the active reserves. We exchanged a lot of experience and we intend to continue doing so in the future,” said the Minister of Defense.
The Czech Republic and Germany are increasing aid to Ukraine
According to Jana Černochová, the meeting confirmed that both ministers perceive the biggest threats of the present in the same way. “Both of our countries are already helping and will continue to help war-torn Ukraine to recapture lost territories as soon as possible and expel Russian aggressors from its territory,” she said, appreciating Germany’s growing role in supporting Kyiv. They agreed that both countries would help the attacked country as long as necessary.
Berlin has already sent to Ukraine, among other things, howitzers, multiple-barreled rocket launchers, Leopard 2A6 battle tanks, infantry fighting vehicles and the Patriot air defense system. Before the recent NATO summit in Vilnius, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz promised another package of military aid in the amount of 2.7bn Euros, which also includes 30 Leopard 1A5 battle tanks. At the summit, additional aid worth 700 m euros was announced, including, among other things, two more Patriot systems and 25 Leopard 1A5 tanks.
The Czech Republic has been among the major donors and suppliers of military aid since the beginning of the Russian invasion. In the past six months alone, 24 tanks, 17 infantry fighting vehicles and 645 anti-tank guided missiles traveled to Ukraine. Last year, the Department of Defense provided, among other things, 38 tanks, 55 BVP (Czech BMP variant–Ed.), four pieces of aviation equipment and 13 self-propelled howitzers.
Although the representatives of both countries agreed that the main focus should be on Ukraine, they did not leave out the topic of the African Sahel. “The Sahel is one of the areas where Czechs and Germans stand side by side. We agreed that it would be a mistake to clear the field and not pay more attention to this area,” said the defense minister, adding that there are other opportunities for cooperation in the Sahel.
Leopard tanks
In addition to the donation of 15 Leopard 2A4 tanks, which the Army of the Czech Republic will take over by the end of this year, the Czech government has entrusted the Minister of Defense with negotiating the possible purchase of Leopard 2A8 tanks. The German side has already agreed for the Czech Republic to join its own framework agreement for the purchase of Leopard 2A8 tanks. The Czech Republic is considering the purchase of up to 77 of these tanks. The price will also depend on how many other countries eventually join the agreement.
The German minister described this plan as “an important and good step”. “We are very pleased because it increases the ability to defend each other if needed. The Czech Republic has long been the most important security and defense partner in the Central European region,” said Boris Pistorius at a joint press conference at the Czech Ministry of Defense.
The Czech Republic would thus join Germany, which intends to replace the Leopard 2A6 main battle tank with a new version of the 2A8. The German Ministry of Defense plans to act as the so-called central contracting authority in the project, which will mediate communication with the manufacturer, the KMW company, for all involved states – including the Czech Republic. According to Berlin, this procedure should significantly simplify the administration and speed up the process.
Another advantage is the uniform configuration, which enables more or less serial production and thus a lower price. Tanks will only be able to differ in communication equipment, paint and national markings.
“The main goal of this project is to make our heavy brigade fully interoperable in accordance with NATO standards,” said Minister Černochová, according to which the signing of the contract could take place by mid-2024 and the first tanks could be delivered in 2027.
As with other orders, Prague strives for the most significant involvement of domestic industry in this case as well. “The involvement of the Czech defense industry is absolutely key for us and will be decisive for the government to approve our participation in this joint project,” added Minister Černochová. (Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com) (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ Czech Republic Ministry of Defence)
24 Jul 23. FAMAE Signs Contract with ASELSAN for the Maintenance of Leopard 2A4 Tanks. Within the framework of the maintenance project for the armored vehicles of the Chilean Army, Fábricas y Maestranzas del Ejército, after a rigorous bidding process where administrative and technical aspects were analyzed, on Friday, July 14 a contract was signed between FAMAE and ASELSAN, to carry out the upgrade of the fleet of Leopard 2A4 tanks.
This cooperation with the Turkish company has several advantages, including a transfer of technology and know-how, which will also allow the expansion of FAMAE’s capabilities and the continuing sustainment of the vehicles, thus extending their life cycle.
This solution is adapted to the specific needs of the Army, allowing it to be guaranteed the continuing availability of the vehicles, defining specific requirements according to the geographical setting of Chile and the framework of the assigned budget.
With this agreement, the maintenance of the armored material of strategic significance of the Chilean Army is assured, thereby achieving greater availability and reliability, both for instruction and training, and for the missions as determined by the National Defense Policy.
(defense-aerospace.com EDITOR’S NOTE: Although this is not mentioned in the official statement above, and Aselsan has not made any announcement of the contract, South American media reports that the initial contract will lead to a complex upgrade, including uprated armor, sensors, and fire control equipment. Aselsan notes on its website that its VOLKAN Fire Control System has been integrated into several tank models, including the Leopard 2A4.) (Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com) (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ FAMAE Chile)
24 Jul 23. OTT Technologies about to deliver remanufactured Ratels to African client. OTT Technologies is ready to deliver a batch of remanufactured Ratels for an African military after a seven-month rebuild and refurbishment process. The customer already operates the Ratel and is expanding its fleet with a number of additional vehicles. These vehicles were sourced from OTT stock and remanufactured by the company.
The original main Ratel components (engine, gearbox, transfer case, suspension) were fully reconditioned by accredited local suppliers, and new shock absorbers fitted. In the remanufacturing process, many systems such as the pneumatics, piping, cabling, complete electrical system (including electrical harness and electronic control (ECU), complete braking system, etc. were totally replaced and are brand new.
The hulls were sandblasted, inspected for cracks and went through a comprehensive interior and exterior painting process. New tyres with run-flat inserts were fitted.
OTT is no stranger to upgrading vehicles, having years of experience remanufacturing Ratels as well as upgraded RG12 Nyalas. It can perform upgrades on various different platforms.
OTT Technologies’ associated company OTT Solutions, in collaboration with OTT Group company ADG Mobility, also offers the highly modified Ratel Service Life Extension Programme (SLEP) for local and foreign Ratel users (existing Ratel operators include South Africa, Ghana, Cameroon, Rwanda, and Jordan – of the 1 300 Ratels manufactured, 600 have been exported).
The Ratel SLEP upgrade is focusing on a new sighting system and engine and transmission. The new Cummins engine weighs half as much (586 kg) as the original (a 1 230 kg Bussing) and is 25% more efficient while developing more power (270 kW rather than 210 kW).
As the engine and gearbox are now smaller and lighter, OTT Solutions was able to add more armour so the whole vehicle is now protected to NATO STANAG Level 2 (7.62×39 mm armour piercing incendiary) all round (at present not even Level 1). Frontal protection remains against 12.7 mm armour piercing from 50 metres.
The Ratel SLEP’s new sighting system gives a full day/night capability. The stabilised commander’s sight incorporates a day camera, thermal imager, and laser rangefinder while the gunner’s sight comprises a day camera, thermal camera, and laser rangefinder. Other changes include a new pneumatic system, central tyre inflation system (CTIS), and fire extinguishing system.
OTT Technologies was established in 1980 as a supplier of surplus military equipment. It then began refurbishing military vehicles before moving on to manufacturing new vehicles. Its product lineup includes cash in transit vehicles (which have been exported to places like Nigeria), mine protected vehicles (notably the Puma series), light armoured vehicles and crowd control vehicles.
OTT has bought hundreds of surplus South African military vehicles and offers these for sale after refurbishment. The company has also modified some of these vehicles for different roles – for instance, the Hunter 4×4 patrol and reconnaissance vehicle is based on a Samil 20 driveline. The recent acquisition of LMT Products and the addition of ADG Mobility to the stable has further increased the OTT Group portfolio.
OTT Technologies lists its new-build mine protected vehicle range as comprising the Puma M26, Puma M36 and LM13. Other products include the Bulldog M34 security vehicle, a manual turret, MAN truck bodies, security/cash in transit vehicles and remanufactured Casspirs, Ratels and Samils. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
21 Jul 23. MUTT: MOD shows off new machine gun-wielding robotic vehicle at military demo. A versatile, electric land vehicle known as the MUTT that can be operated by remote control has been shown off at a multi-domain demo set in the future.
The Multi Utility Tactical Transport (MUTT) vehicle can carry weapons and equipment across the battlefield and was one of the capabilities on show at the Ministry of Defence event aimed at showcasing the innovation for the battlefield of 2026 at Lulworth Ranges.
It comes fitted with a machine gun and not only can it carry weapons and equipment but can also be used to evacuate troops.
- MOD shows glimpse of Armed Forces future with multi-domain demo
- British Army’s new Boxer vehicle to begin trials this month
- £115m contract awarded to create ‘flying electronics laboratory’ for future air combat tech
Both jobs would normally need five or six people, but using the MUTTs would mean fewer service personnel in the line of fire. (Source: forces.net)
21 Jul 23. UK reveals 708 Warrior IFVs left in British Army service. The Warrior IFV platform was recently the beneficiary of £20m ($25.8m) for the installation of rear-mounted cameras but will leave service from 2025. The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has disclosed that the British Army has 708 Warrior infantry fighting vehicles (IFV) currently in service, a drawdown of 13 platforms since the last annual published statistics that were deemed to be beyond economical repair.
The disclosure comes less than two years before the Warrior IFV fleet is due to begin leaving service, and incrementally replaced by the wheeled Boxer 8×8 mechanised infantry vehicle.
However, prior to the publication of the Defence Command Paper (DCP) refresh there was a consideration that the Warrior could be given a stay of execution in light of lessons being learned by Nato forces in Ukraine’s ongoing war against Russia.
In the end, the refreshed DCP issued no such service extension to the UK’s Warrior IFVs, pledging no new platforms across any of the warfighting domains to instead focus on ammunition stockpiles.
The Ukraine conflict has shown the value of conventional armoured formations on the modern battlefield, with tracked vehicles operating well across Ukraine’s vast fields in all conditions.
The Warrior IFV was recently the beneficiary of a £20m ($25.8m) contract for the installation of rear-mounted cameras due to health of safety requirements. The contract will be able to equip 359 vehicles with the rear-mounted camera, enough for just over half the Warrior fleet.
The British Army has been allocated £200m to allow current capabilities, including Warrior, to remain in service until new concepts and capabilities are introduced into service throughout the decade, stated a written parliamentary response.
No Warrior reprieve from original DCP
In 2021, the original UK Defence Command Paper announced that the British Army would retire the Warrior IFV fleet from 2025, abandoning plans to undertake the Warrior Capability Sustainment Plan which would have seen the installation of a new turret and main weapon, among other upgrades.
Instead, the acquisition of the Boxer 8×8 mechanised infantry vehicle (MIV) would be accelerated to fill the gap left by the tracked IFV.
In 2019, the UK signed a £2.3bn deal for the procurement of 508 Boxer MIVs from Artec – a consortium of Rheinmetall and Krauss-Maffei Wegman – in troop-carrying, ambulance, command and specialist carrier variants of the vehicle. This figure has subsequently increased, with a 16 June parliamentary written answer stating that funding had been allocated for 1,016 Boxer MIVs. (Source: army-technology.com)
20 Jul 23. Indian Army inducts new mobility vehicles. The Indian Army has inducted first batches of new 4×4 vehicles including the Toyota Hilux Mountain off-Road Vehicles (MRVs) and Mahindra Scorpio light utility vehicles (LUVs) to enhance mobility.
The Northern Command of the Indian Army said in a social media post on 19 July that the service has received the first batch of an unknown number of Hiluxs.
“The Hilux, known for its toughness, durability, reliability, and offroading capabilities with its powerful engine and 4×4 drive coupled with enhanced safety features will boost the operational readiness and modernise the fleet of the Indian Army,” the Northern Command said.
According to Toyota, the Hilux is powered by a 2.8 litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that generates 204 hp and 420 N m of torque. The MRV is available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. (Source: Janes)
25 Jul 23. BAE Unveils $1.9bn Economic Impact of Ground Vehicle and Weapon Systems Network. BAE Systems’ Combat Mission Systems (CMS) business, which focuses on combat vehicle and weapon systems design and manufacturing for the U.S. military, today published its 2022 Economic Impact Report.
The report details how the company’s network of manufacturing sites, suppliers, and thousands of employees had a $1.9bn impact on the U.S. economy and served as a critical source of growth and investment in communities across the country.
Through operations at its 12 sites, BAE Systems’ ground vehicle, amphibious vehicle and weapon systems product lines contributed to local families and economies by providing more than 5,000 jobs and strategic partnerships with over 2,000 suppliers across 48 states. For example, BAE Systems’ sites in Elgin, Okla. and Aiken, S.C., key ground vehicle production sites, each contributed more than $50m to the economy in 2022.
The Armored Multi-Purpose Family of Vehicles is the U.S. Army’s newest combat vehicle and gives Soldiers critical upgrades in mobility, survivability, interoperability and power.
“Our vast network of sites and strong supplier base are important to the economic prosperity of the local communities we live and work in,” said Andy Corea, vice president and general manager of BAE Systems’ CMS business. “As BAE Systems continues to prioritize investments in its industrial network to build the next generation of ground vehicles and weapon systems for our customers, our backbone to produce and innovate—both now and in the future—remains these 12 sites. As part of our community-driven nature, these sites also continue to look for opportunities to give back to their communities, resulting in tangible improvements to the places our people call home.”
Beyond the workplace, BAE Systems and the 5,000 employees within CMS are proud to support organizations that create positive initiatives in their communities or take part in community outreach that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education; military service members and veterans; and many other people-driven missions. Across the sites, CMS furthered its local impact through:
- More than $580,000 in combined donations to local organizations.
o $153,000 in employee donations to charities serving needs in their neighborhoods.
o $318,000 in grant programming to more than 60 organizations.
o $104,000 in company matched contributions.
- Nearly 1,700 volunteer hours for community causes and non-profits.
(Source: ASD Network)
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TEK Military Seating Limited
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From its inception ProTEK seats have been designed around a family of innovative seat frames onto which tested and certified modules can be fitted to create a bespoke solution for the user. These include Blast protection to Stanag 4569 standards, vibration reduction, head and body protection, seat risers and turntables, fore & aft adjustment, and seat back rake along with viable seat dimensions without the need for additional tooling costs.
Contact: David Parkman
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