25 Aug 22. Hanwha gave ‘Team Thunder,’ update at DVD today. Team Thunder currently includes Lockheed Martin UK, Leonardo, Pearson Engineering, Horstman Defence Systems, and Soucy Defense. The team is bidding to supply 116 self-propelled howitzers to the Royal Artillery as part of the Ministry of Defence’s MFP Programme.
Pasi Pasivirta of Hanwha gave an update to the firing capability of the K-2:
- K-2 has a 52 calibre gun system which has the ability to upgrade to 58 calibre under the proposed K-3 systems which will give an extra 10kms of range of 49kms to the existing system.
- Hanwha has tested a range of ammunitions for the K-2 system including Excalibur and the new Boeing Nammo guided round.
- K-2 has a range of 530kms which can be extended to 730kms.
- K-2 has a current weight of 47 tonnes which can be upgraded to 49 tonnes.
- Hanwha is offering the UK the Soucy rubber track system which will reduce the overall weight by two tonnes. The K-2 on display at DSEI 2023 will have the rubber tack system. Hanwha did not confirm if the MoD has mandated or requested the Soucy system.
- The current weight configuration allows for an extra 3 tonnes to accommodate APS and C-UAS systems.
- K-2 has an automatic loading system which allows 3 rounds to be fired in 15 seconds with an added ‘shoot and scoot’ capability of 45 seconds from firing.
- The Korean K-2 systems will have an In Service Date of 2026/6 for the fully funded ammunition system, with a completion date of 2025.
- The K-10 Resupply vehicle which will be under consideration by the UK under a separate contract, has a capability to supply 100 rounds a day per gun.
Tek Seating and Oxley developments told BATTLESPACE that they are currently negotiating supplying systems to Team Thunder. Oxley already supplies Hanwha in South Korea.
Mobile Fires Programme laid out. The UK MoD and DE&S has now formulated the timetable for the Mobile Fires Requirement to buy a new fleet of 116 (max), either wheeled or tracked or mixed fleet of 532 calibre 155mm self-propelled howitzers. There have been 4 RFIs so far.
Initial Gate will be 4th Quarter 2022
PQQ issues Q1 2023 with a 90 day period followed by a 90 day selection process, where there will be a down select for two systems. The systems being offered are believed to be the Hanwha K9-A2 as chosen by Poland, the Rheinmetall RCH 155mm, the Nexter Caesar, BAE Systems Archer, the Rheinmetall MAN truck mounted system and the KMW truck mounted system.
The Assessment Phase will take place between 2024-25 with Production Award in 2026 with 2030 as an ISD. The possibility remains of a ‘winner takes all.’ Of either wheeled or tracked systems, but BATTLESPACE believes that there will be a mixed fleet. The rumours of an upgrade for the AS90 are believed to be unfounded given the inability to support the system. Lockheed Martin said that a new Team Thunder Teammate will be announced at DVD to add to the team which consists of Hanwha, Lockheed Martin UK, Pearson Engineering and Leonardo. Lockheed Martin UK will build the turrets at their Ampthill facility and also carry out all the required GVA qualification’s and radio fits. The nature of the ammunition remains a key part of Mobile Fires. The teams will offer their own solutions which will be subjected to side-by-side trials. The resupply vehicle will be chosen under a separate Requirement as will the Training package.
21 Sep 22. Funding boost for protection systems for the British Army. The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) confirms new investment that will increase scalable protection options for the UK’s armoured land vehicles. New investment will exploit and build on the MIPS standard to demonstrate a modular, flexible Active Protection System
Funded by the British Army, the investment of £15m over three years will enable Dstl to deliver the follow-on phase of the successful Icarus Technology Demonstrator Programme (TDP). The Icarus TDP, through Chief Scientific Advisor (CSA) funding, developed and demonstrated the Modular Integrated Protection System (MIPS) Open Architecture Standard (the MIPS standard) to Technology Readiness Level 5 (TRL 5).
This new investment will exploit and build on the MIPS standard to demonstrate a modular, flexible Active Protection System (APS) at high maturity (TRL 7).
The next stage of MIPS will enable the UK to continue to develop future capabilities, with advances through to 2040 to include:
- Improved sensors – multi-spectral devices are combined with increasingly sophisticated fast signal processing
- Improved information processing – including data fusion and artificial intelligence (AI)
- Improved effectors – current counter-munition and directed energy technology projects deliver precise effects to defeat a wider range of threats
- Improved high-speed directors – compact and affordable energy storage and motor drive technologies
- Improvements in electronic infrastructure component technologies – exploiting safety and security features being developed elsewhere for industrial robotic and autonomous systems
Minister for Defence Procurement, Alec Shelbrooke said: “Our Armed Forces keep us safe around the clock and it’s incumbent upon us to do all we can to protect them and adapt to future threats.
“The war in Ukraine has highlighted the importance of well protected armoured vehicles. We are supporting the Army to modernise and remain at the forefront of cutting-edge capabilities.
“This is an important step forward in researching the latest technology to improve protection for armoured vehicles, helping them prevent and repel attacks from the ground and air.”
Advanced APS is a critical enabler to achieving operational advantage and is a key function to enable survivability of the Army’s fleet of vehicles. MIPS provides a modular framework to exploit high maturity APS components and/or systems into a sovereign-designed solution that can be procured at pace, be supported through life, and be effectively integrated into mission systems.
The new activity will:
- Exploit previous CSA investment of £10 m into MIPS development
- Be an essential step towards developing an enduring approach for vehicle protection Research and Development (R&D)
- Boost UK industry by securing UK industrial capability in APS. It promotes Land APS activity with Industry as part of the Land Industrial Strategy
- Seek to build a UK industrial partnership in MIPS that increases exploitation opportunities and enables Army to benefit from the delivered capability options
- Work with a range of industry partners, including the UKACIA group (the UK APS Community of Interest and Action).
Dstl’s Active Protection expert Tom Newbery said: “This is such an exciting opportunity for Dstl and Industry to work together to deliver a step change in vehicle survivability by taking MIPS to the next level of maturity. MIPS has the potential to open up a range of capability options for Army, improving vehicle survivability against the most challenging threats now and in the future.” (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
21 Sep 22. RBSL Fires UK Designed and Developed BOXER Mortar Mission Module. Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) has demonstrated the ability of a BOXER Mission Module to successfully integrate and fire a mortar from the BOXER vehicle. This firing demonstration took place on Salisbury Plain and was the first time in which a mortar has been fired from a BOXER.
The integrated system demonstrated the BOXER vehicle, the Mortar Mission Module, a fully-automated aiming capability and the Mortar Weapon System (MWS) which has been developed by Rheinmetall Norway. On this occasion multiple 120mm mortar rounds were fired, demonstrating the ability of the BOXER to accommodate an updated capability for those users with smaller calibre in-service systems such as the 81mm mortar currently used by the British Army and many of her allies around the world. Whilst no 81mm mortar rounds were fired on this occasion the system is multi-capable, allowing either of the calibre weapons to be used as dictated by the operational requirement.
Overall system design and integration was conducted by RBSL engineers based in the company headquarters in Telford and the rapid production of this capability was made possible by close collaborative working with a number of industry partners. Manufacture of the mission module was also conducted at Telford by welders preparing for the serial production of those BOXER variants already on contract to the British Army under the ongoing Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV) contract.
The need for mechanised infantry to have organic fire power is critical to mission success. This BOXER system delivers automated target acquisition and a high rate of fire (16-18 rounds/min) with rapid into and out of action – shoot and scoot. A semi-automatic mortar system can be fitted with a variety of mortar calibres and designs, enabling customers to use their current mortar systems or select their preferred future capability. The crew of four are able to operate in both day and night in all weather conditions, with a 270 degree rear firing arc. The Mortar System itself has also been demonstrated on light and medium vehicles enabling fleet wide commonality and reducing training and support burden.
The system can fire High Explosive, Smoke and Illumination ammunition, while the compact system design provides increased storage space for ammunition in the vehicle. The MWS also allows the mortar system to be dismounted and fire from the vehicle should the operational situation dictate it of should there be a requirement to revert to back-up functionality in the event of any system failure: in this way assured fire support can be delivered for soldiers.
Significantly developed at Telford, the BOXER mortar module can also serve as an example of the creation of sovereign intellectual property as part of Rheinmetall’s strategic vision in support of the UK MoD and wider economic prosperity agenda. The mortar capability, combined with BOXER’s battle-proven design, also provides a valuable opportunity for UK exports – driving prosperity for the UK.
19 Sep 22. Galvion introduces expanded options to its Batlskin Cobra® helmet platform to UK and Europe at DVD ’22.
Galvion, a world leader in innovative head protection systems and power and data management solutions, with operationally proven pedigree in NATO countries, is excited to be introducing their new Cobra Hi-Cut combat helmet to UK and European markets at DVD 2022. The new helmet has been developed to expand the Cobra helmet platform range and specifically, to enable the use of a wider range of communication and hearing protection systems. Galvion’s new Hi-Cut Batlskin® Cobra helmet, along with the full suite of Nerv Centr® power and data provision and management solutions, will be on display at DVD 2022 on booth C3-502.
Galvion’s Cobra helmet system was one of the first ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene shells introduced with a comprehensive suite of modular components to accommodate widely used head-borne accessories, allowing soldiers to quickly up-armour to suit mission needs. It further revolutionized the market with its customizable, comfort-fit Modular Suspension System (MSS), offering not only a lighter weight helmet, but a more comfortable one, while still providing superior levels of blunt force and ballistic protection. Since its introduction in 2012, Galvion has delivered over 200,000 Cobra systems to UK and European users.
Peter Rafferty, Galvion’s UK President said: “We continue to deliver our Full-Cut Cobra helmet systems today, and also offer customers refurbishment programs, including upgrading with rail systems and to our APEX liner system, which is optimized for long-term comfort and offers full-coverage impact protection.” Rafferty continued: “The new Cobra Hi-Cut variant was developed in response to continued and growing needs to accommodate a wider range of communication, situational awareness and hearing protection systems as well as the need to provide an expanded platform for accessory integration. This new cut retains all the functionality and protection levels that end-users expect of a Galvion head system. We’re proud to offer additional options for our UK and European customers to ensure through-life value for our helmet platforms.” He added: “Looking ahead, Galvion will continue to work with key partners around the globe to reshape the next generation of integrated head systems to meet the ever-changing needs of tomorrow’s battlefield.”
19 Sep 22. Hanwha Defense Join Hands With PHZ to Expand Cooperation on Advanced Defence Systems.
- Hanwha Defense and Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) sign a memorandum of understanding on bilateral cooperation on artillery and armoured vehicle systems based on the Framework Agreement between South Korea and Poland
- Both defence giants from South Korea and Poland will expand cooperation for the modernization of the Polish Armed Forces and maximizing the benefits to the Polish defence industry
Hanwha Defense, the largest defence company in South Korea, and Poland’s state-funded defence group, Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ), signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for enhancing bilateral industrial partnership.
Signed on the second day of the MSPO defence and security fair in Kielce, Poland, the MoU is associated with the supply of K9 Self-Propelled Howitzers (SPHs) and other advanced groundequipment, agreed upon by the Governments of South Korea and Poland under the Framework Contract signed in late July. Hanwha Defense signed the first phase of executive contract with Poland on August 26 to supply hundreds of K9 SPHs between 2022 and 2026.
The Hanwha-PGZ MoU specifies the partnership at production, servicing, life-cycle cost and future development of K9 SPHs. Other fields of potential cooperation include infantry fighting vehicles and multiple launch rocket systems when those solutions will be ordered by the Polish Armed Forces.
Cooperation on the K9 SPH is focused on maximizing partnership in areas such as R&D, manufacturing, overhaul and modernization of related solutions for Polish, South Korean and other third party projects. The roadmap of this cooperation includes modernization of the K9 to K9PL standard and joint R&D on next-generation field artillery systems.
“I’m very proud that the partnership between Hanwha Defense and Poland have grown to enter a new phase of expanded cooperation based on the latest Framework Agreement and Executive Contract,” said Mr. Son Jaeil, President and CEO of Hanwha Defense. “Poland will be a hub base for Hanwha’s global expansion, especially in Europe. To that end, we are dedicated to work together with the Government of Poland with full partnership and trust.”
“The Polish defence industry has over a decade of fruitful cooperation with Hanwha Defense. The most recognizable effect of this cooperation is the KRAB howitzers, not-so-distant relative of the K9 SPH,” said Mr. Sebastian Chwalek, CEO of PGZ. “Today’s agreement is the next stage of this cooperation, which will translate into the development of both our economies and an increase in the potential of armed forces of our countries.”
The partnership agreement between the largest defence groups both in South Korea and Poland signifies progress of bilateral defence cooperation, creating greater synergy in a variety of arms projects.
“Both Hanwha and PGZ have full capabilities to develop, produce, deliver almost all types of weapons systems ranging from missiles to ground equipment and sensor systems,” said Mr. Billy Lee Boo-hwan, Executive Vice President of Overseas Business Division, Hanwha Defense. “Through active cooperation between the two defence giants, I’m sure we can produce the greatest synergy and best outcomes.”
(Source: ASD Network)
Hanwha Defense Co., Ltd. OR-17
Tel: +82 2 729 1595
Email:
Website: www.hanwha-defense.co.kr/eng/index.do
Hanwha Defense has built a world-class portfolio in the
areas of artillery systems, armoured vehicles, air defence
systems and unmanned ground systems based on
innovative technology and broad experience. Against this
backdrop, Hanwha Defense is now reinforcing our position
as a sustainably growing and globally competitive defence
manufacturer. The world’s most advanced self-propelled
howitzer, the K9 SPH, has been selected by nine countries
around the world including Korea, Turkey, Poland, Finland,
India, Norway, Estonia, Egypt and Australia and it now
accounts for half of the global market for Self-Propelled
Howitzers because of its excellent performance. Hanwha
Defense is becoming a worldwide defence industry
powerhouse through the development of leading-edge
products such as REDBACK, a next-generation infantry
fighting vehicle.
19 Sep 22. The Evolution of the SIG SAUER MCX: Introducing the MCX-SPEAR-LT. SIG SAUER is pleased to announce the evolution of the most advanced and tested rifle platform in the world with the introduction of the MCX-SPEAR-LT. Built off the foundation of the MCX Virtus the third generation of the MCX combines all the extensive testing, continued product development, and customer/special operations feedback to become the MCX-SPEAR-LT. “The first generation of the MCX platform was designed to be an AR-15 style platform with added modularity. The second generation of the MCX, the MCX Virtus, was purpose-built for rugged durability and brought unprecedented modularity. Now comes the MCX-SPEAR-LT, which incorporates the best of both generations and is the culmination of the latest research, development, and innovation in the MCX platform,” said Tom Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President, Commercial Sales, SIG SAUER, Inc. “The lightened handguard has the expected rigidity and durability of the MCX, the lower is a familiar SDI, M400-style lower and ambi-bolt catch and release that is designed to fit the legacy VIRTUS uppers for more versatility. The MCX-SPEAR-LT will accept AR-15 style triggers, in addition to the legacy triggers for even more flexibility in the MCX platform. With the MCX-SPEAR_LT also comes the long-awaited addition of the 7.62×39 caliber to the MCX family bringing even more modularity to a platform that simply can’t be matched. The evolution continues and the MCX-SPEAR-LT has raised the bar for modular weapons technology.”
The MCX-SPEAR-LT rifle is an aluminum frame rifle with a gas piston operating system featuring a lightweight ergonomic handguard, push-button folding stock with cheek-rest, and a cold hammer forged carbon steel barrel available in 9-inch (300BLK), 11.5-inch (7.62×39 & 5.56), and 16-inch (7.62×39 & 5.56) lengths. The rifle offers fully ambidextrous controls including bolt catch and release, a SIG QD suppressor-ready flash hider optimized for SIG SAUER QD suppressors, a SIG flatblade match trigger, comes optics ready and can be easily paired with a SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ROMEO8 or TANGO6T, and is finished in a Coyote Anodized finish. The MCX-SPEAR-LT is available is 300BLK, 556 NATO, 762×39 calibers.
MCX-SPEAR-LT Specs*:
Caliber: 300BLK
Barrel Length: 9 inch
Caliber: 556 NATO
Barrel Length: 11.5 inch
Caliber: 762×39
Barrel Length: 11.5 inch
Caliber: 556 NATO
Barrel Length: 16 inch
Caliber: 762×39
Barrel Length: 16 inch
*For additional specs including weight, overall length, width, and height by model visit the product page at sigsauer.com.
The MCX-SPEAR-LT is now shipping and available at retailers. To learn more about the MCX-SPEAR-LT or watch the product video visit sigsauer.com.