Sponsored by Galvion
www.galvion.com
——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
14 May 24. US Army’s race for new howitzers, munitions takes off after modernisation effort scuttled. US land forces want an artillery system that is more mobile and more lethal. While cutting-edge technology development failed to produce a production-ready system, the US Army is readjusting its acquisition approach and concepts of operations for artillery. The army has determined that its Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA) Program of Record is not an option for future artillery warfare, Doug Bush, assistant secretary of the army for acquisition, logistics, and technology, announced in March 2024. This decision and more on advanced artillery technology stemmed from a tactical fires study that was completed in 2023 and has not been publicly released, said General James Rainey, commanding general of Army Futures Command (AFC). ERCA was scheduled to transition to the major capability acquisition pathway after five years of research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E), according to the US Government Accountability Office. The army applied for a waiver for an additional year of RDT&E but was denied by the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment. (Source: Janes)
15 May 24. U.S. Department of Defense Statement on the Signing of the Glide Phase Interceptor Cooperative Development. Today, the United States Department of Defense (DoD) and Japan Ministry of Defense (MOD) have finalized a formal agreement for a Glide Phase Interceptor (GPI) Cooperative Development (GCD) Project Arrangement under the U.S.-Japan bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for Research, Development, Test and Evaluation Projects (RDT&E).
By pursuing an agreement on GPI development, the U.S. and Japan will strengthen regional deterrence while enhancing long-standing missile defense cooperation between the two countries.
The U.S. Missile Defense Agency is leading the development of GPI for the DoD, which will provide hypersonic missile defense capability during the glide-phase portion of hypersonic flight. Per the signed GPI Cooperative Development (GCD), Japan will lead development of rocket motors and propulsion components of GPI.
GPI will deliver a regional defensive capability over time as part of a holistic layered defensive architecture. The GPI co-development will build upon long-standing U.S.-Japan missile defense cooperation and strengthen the Alliance deterrence posture. (Source: U.S. DoD)
15 May 24. Slovakia debuts rapid-fire mortar at local defense show. Slovakia has unveiled a 120mm self-propelled mortar advertised as firing 20 rounds of ammunition per minute, a rate that would make it one of the fastest in Europe.
Minister of Defense Robert Kalinak presented the multi-company product during the country’s flagship defense fair here, IDEB, which runs May 14-16. The AM-120, which stands for automatic mortar, melds technology from two Slovak defense firms and a Czech military vehicle manufacturer.
The turret is provided by ZTS Special, a gun producer based in the northern part of Slovakia, and was designed for 6×6-type vehicles. The Tatra 815-7 6×6 chassis is supplied by the Czech firm Excalibur Army while the Lansys fire control system is a product of the private Slovak company, Kerametal.
A ZTS Special representative told Defense News at the show that the development of the mortar began two years ago and was most recently tested a month ago.
The weapon’s main selling point, according to the manufacturer, is that it can fire approximately 20 rounds per minute, reaching distances of over eight kilometers, or five miles. It is designed to work closely with infantry units near the front lines.
The AM-120 can carry 60 rounds, meaning one full load could be blasted out within minutes before the vehicle moves on to avoid triangulation by enemy sensors. That “shoot-and-scoot” tactic has been on display in Ukraine’s defense against Russia, with both sides employing counter-fire radars that can pick up a projectile’s origin within minutes.
An analysis published earlier this year by the European Council on Foreign Relations highlighted that the Russian counter-battery fire response time is around three minutes.
Slovakia’s AM-120 will rival the Finnish NEMO 120mm self-propelled mortar, produced by Patria Group. It is the only other European system in this category advertised as reaching a maximum rate of fire of 20 shots per minute, but has a longer range than the Slovak-made mortar, capable of hitting targets located more than 10 kilometers away.
Meanwhile, neighbor Poland also produces a mortar system that can be mounted on tracked and wheeled vehicles, the M120 RAK. Designed by Polish defense company Huta Stalowa Wola, it is in service with the Ukrainian Army. The Ministry of Defense of Slovakia has not yet announced any order for the new mortar. (Source: Defense News)
15 May 24. US supplies Lithuania with Javelin anti-tank systems. The procurement of this new batch of Javelin systems is evidence of Europe’s renewed respect for them in a new form of warfare.
Anew shipment of US-manufactured, medium-range Javelin anti-tank systems was handed over to the Lithuanian Armed Forces this week.
Amounting to $16.6m, these systems will be assigned to Lithuania’s Land Force units.
Javelin is a man-portable, anti-tank weapon developed by a joint venture comprising defence companies Raytheon and Lockheed Martin. It is shoulder-fired but can also be deployed from multiple platforms installed on tracked, wheeled or amphibious vehicles.
It has been deployed extensively for combat missions in the counter-insurgency wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The US and coalition forces have conducted more than 5,000 engagements with the weapon system in these two countries alone.
However, Javelin is also being widely used by the Ukrainian army against Russian tanks and armoured vehicles during the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war. As part of the US’ military assistance to Ukraine – now worth $50.6bn (Hrv2trn) since the Russian invasion began just over two years ago – the donor has provided more than 10,000 Javelin systems as of 10 May 2024, according to the US Department of Defense.
A newfound respect for the Javelin
“Beyond doubt, the Javelin anti-tank system the United States has made available for Lithuania to acquire is a boost to the Lithuanian Armed Forces’ combat capacity and deterrent effect,” said Lithuania’s Minister of National Defence Laurynas Kasčiūnas.
Demand for the Javelin has actually increased, even after 30 years of service. Whether used in counter-insurgency missions or in a peer-on-peer context, the system continues to be extremely useful in the current form of warfare in eastern Europe.
Speaking with Army Technology, GlobalData Defence Analyst Tristan Sauer pointed out that these systems, while largely unchanged for some time, have a newfound value in Ukraine.
“This is a capability that was previously undervalued or under-appreciated, because the focus on counter-insurgency operations meant that there was not as much of a risk of encountering enemy armoured vehicles or platforms.
“Ukraine started off using Javelins, Carl Gustaf rocket launchers, Stingers – and all of these were built in the 1980s. So there has been little-to-no innovation in this space,” Sauer pointed out.
“What we learn from Ukraine is that even with the innovations that the Russians put into armoured vehicles, and they were always considered to be very forward thinking and relatively advanced, it has been proven that even without innovating in the man-portable heavy weapons space, those things are still extremely lethal, extremely useful against modern armoured platforms.” (Source: army-technology.com)
14 May 24. Britain to arm frigates with land attack missiles. At the First Sea Lord’s Sea Power Conference 2024, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps confirmed that plans are now underway to equip the Royal Navy’s Type 26 and Type 31 frigates with land attack missiles.
Speaking at the conference, Shapps emphasised the importance of this upgrade.
“Ensuring our Royal Navy can protect our interests and get the job done wherever and whenever they are called upon to do so,” he stated. This new capability will enable the frigates to carry out precise strikes against land targets, significantly expanding their operational range and effectiveness.
Speaking to myself and other journalists after the speech, the First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key, revealed that the Ministry of Defence is currently exploring three missile options for this upgrade: the Tomahawk, the Naval Strike Missile, and the Future Cruise/Anti-Ship Weapon.
The decision to arm these frigates with land strike capabilities is part of a broader effort to modernise the Royal Navy. Shapps highlighted the strategic importance of this upgrade, stating, “These steps will help deliver the technological edge we need in the years ahead.”
The Defence Secretary’s confirmation comes amidst a series of strategic investments and initiatives aimed at reinforcing the Royal Navy’s position as a leading maritime force. Shapps detailed significant investments in various naval capabilities, including up to £41 bn for the next-generation Dreadnought fleet and the ongoing production of Astute-class submarines. “Five [Astute-class submarines] are now complete and able to hit threats on land with Tomahawk cruise missiles and threats below the water with Spearfish torpedoes,” he added.
Shapps also announced the acquisition of up to six new Multi-Role Support Ships (MRSS) to replace the current amphibious fleet, further enhancing the Royal Navy’s versatility and operational readiness. “These ships will ensure our extraordinary Royal Marines have the versatility, the heavy-lift capability, that they need,” he stated.
Highlighting the importance of international alliances, Shapps cited various collaborative operations with global partners, reinforcing the UK’s commitment to maintaining a strong and integrated naval presence worldwide. “I believe we are more integrated with a wider range of global partners than ever before,” he said. (Source: News Now/UKDJ)
14 May 24. Aerojet Rocketdyne to be Propulsion Provider for the Next Generation Interceptor. Aerojet Rocketdyne, an L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) company, will be the propulsion provider for the Missile Defense Agency’s (MDA) Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) as part of the Lockheed Martin team. On April 15, MDA announced it selected Lockheed Martin for NGI, the nation’s first line of defense against long-range ballistic missile threats from rogue nations. NGI is part of MDA’s Ground-based Midcourse Defense system and will provide a new, advanced interceptor to protect the homeland.
“Our propulsion technology has powered the nation’s missile defense for decades,” said Christopher E. Kubasik, Chair and CEO, L3Harris. “As the industry-leading propulsion provider to all MDA interceptor programs currently in production, our team has the expertise needed to provide this specialty propulsion to defend the homeland from evolving threats.”
According to MDA, once fielded, NGI will be capable of defeating expected threat advances into the 2030s and beyond. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
14 May 24. UK picks companies for billion-dollar hypersonic missile program. The U.K. Ministry of Defence picked 90 companies and organizations from industry and academia to compete for a £1bn (U.S. $1.26bn) program to develop hypersonic missile capabilities.
Those selected will be eligible to bid for contracts within the eight-lot framework, with a maximum value of £1bn over the next seven years, the ministry’s Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) acquisition organization said in a statement on Monday. The goal is to facilitate cooperation on cutting-edge technology and rapidly develop advanced hypersonic-missile capabilities for Britain.
“Hypersonics will be a landmark capability of the future and it is essential we keep pace with the developments of our adversaries,” Minister for Defence Procurement James Cartlidge said in the statement.
The United States as well as France have tested hypersonic technologies, while China and Russia have reportedly deployed hypersonic missiles that could potentially deliver conventional or nuclear warheads. Traveling at more than five times the speed of sound, the speed and maneuverability of hypersonic missiles could challenge existing missile defenses, the U.K. government said in a July report.
The hypersonic framework is focused on speedy development of capability, with mechanisms to align procurement and development goals to prevent “traditional challenges that impede capability acquisition,” DE&S said. The scheme will be used to pick suppliers that will support research, development and testing of hypersonic technologies all the way to a field-grade capability.
In addition to established weapons makers and academic institutions, nearly half of the suppliers to the program will be small and medium-sized companies, most of them based in the U.K., according to DE&S. The framework will reopen to new suppliers every six to 12 months to ensure the defense ministry has access to new technologies and emerging market capabilities.
Separately, Norwegian missile maker Kongsberg said it teamed up with Germany’s Diehl Defence and MBDA Deutschland to develop a future supersonic strike missile with the name 3SM Tyrfing.
Kongsberg is leading the partnership to create a long-distance, maneuverable supersonic strike missile for Norway and Germany, the company said in a statement on Monday. The team will work with the countries’ defense forces to define and develop what Kongsberg called “the world’s most advanced long-range strike capability designed to meet future surface threats.”
Stand-off weapons are crucial for credible deterrence, MBDA Deutschland Managing Director Thomas Gottschild said in the statement, while Diehl Defence CEO Helmut Rauch said the companies will develop a “game changer” that none of them could develop on their own.
The European Union is helping fund two projects to develop an interceptor against hypersonic threats: Hydis2 coordinated by pan-European missile maker MBDA and Hydef led by Spain’s Sener Aeroespacial and including Germany’s Diehl Defence. (Source: Defense News)
13 May 24. Canada wants to boost munitions lines with critical minerals expansion. Canada is seeking to increase its munitions stockpiles amid shortages highlighted by the war in Ukraine. But to bolster production, it first needs to expand its supply chain, particularly for the critical minerals ubiquitous in defense equipment and consumer electronics alike.
To do this, Ottawa hopes to tap further into its vast critical minerals reserves, lessening its reliance on China which dominates much of the global supply chain.
“We have an increasing dependence on Chinese critical minerals,” Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair told Defense News Monday at a Defense Writers Group event in Washington. “Certainly in my country, we have actually a lot of those assets in the ground. But we have to extract them and we have to process them,”
“Canada can be helpful to our allies by actually creating a viable source of some of those critical minerals,” he said. “And if we work very closely with our allies we can secure broadly what we all will need in the future and we won’t be potentially disadvantaged by an adversary.”
Blair raised Canada’s efforts to become a critical minerals wellspring for NATO during a meeting with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Monday.
“It’s particularly acute, in my opinion, in the defense industry,” Blair told Defense News. “We rely on aluminum and titanium for the planes we’re building and put in the air. Tungsten is an essential mineral for the production of munitions because of its hardness. Cobalt, rare earth minerals, all of the very technical systems that we are developing have a disproportionate reliance on minerals which are not entirely at this present time secure and under our control.”
The Minerals Security Partnership, a recently established consortium that includes Canada, the U.S. and other NATO-aligned countries met in Toronto in March.
Canada released a critical minerals strategy in December. It identifies 31 minerals Canada deems critical, including several crucial to the munitions supply chain like antimony, aluminum, copper and magnesium.
It comes as Canada seeks to bolster its munitions stocks, which Blair called “woefully inadequate.”
For instance, he noted Canada only has two facilities making 155mm artillery rounds, which are seeking to expand production and supply chains.
The shortages have also limited Canada’s ability support Ukraine against Russia’s invasion. Ottawa has committed roughly $14bn in aid to Ukraine so far, according to Blair.
“Our responsibilities to continue to support Ukraine really requires that we build up domestic capacity,” said Blair.
The effort to expand munitions lines and supply chains comes as Canada seeks to increase its defense budget, in large part through additional equipment purchases.
The defense spending increase will increase Canada’s military funding from 1.3% of GDP to 1.76% of GDP. However, that still falls short of the 2% of GDP benchmark for defense spending that NATO allies have set.
Blair said that major defense purchases that have not yet been fully funded, including a replacement for Canada’s aging submarine fleet and an integrated air and missile defense systems, would bring Canada closer to the 2% of GDP benchmark.
He noted that Canada has discussed modernizing its underwater surveillance capabilities with allies, including the U.S. and Germany.
“There are a number of options available to us,” said Blair. “But we’ve got some work to do in both determining what are requirements are, what choices are available on the market, and we’re beginning those processes right away.
“And once we’ve done that work, I’ll be in a much stronger position to go back to our government and say ‘We have a very clear path to this new capability acquisition’ and then seek the funding for it.”
Ottawa and Washington are also working together to modernize NORAD, with Blair noting that at least one over-the-horizon radar will be based in Canada.
“We’ve made commitments on getting that delivered,” said Blair. “An integrated, fully communicative systems requires consensus requires consensus and agreement on what we’re going to build and where we’ll build it.” (Source: Defense News Early Bird/Defense News)
13 May 24. USN SEALs Enhance Combat Craft Medium with Advanced Munitions and Surveillance Capabilities. The US Navy SEALs are set to enhance their Combat Craft Medium (CCM) boats with new capabilities for launching loitering munitions and surveillance drones, aiming to boost the tactical effectiveness of these vessels in special operations. These 60-foot boats, which serve crucial roles in inserting and extracting Navy SEAL teams, are undergoing modifications to include a multi-pod launcher system capable of deploying a variety of combat and support payloads. This initiative was highlighted during the Special Operations Forces (SOF) Week conference, where a graphic illustration of the launcher showed a system designed to house eight or more pods. These modifications are part of a broader effort by the Special Operations Command to innovate and adapt to modern warfare demands. The planned enhancements include the ability to deploy loitering munitions aimed at targets like individuals, vehicles, and small boats, as well as equipment for surveillance and electronic warfare. The CCM, developed by Vigor Industrial and introduced in 2015, is known for its speed and capacity, supporting a crew of four and nineteen passengers over a range of 600 nautical miles. The addition of the new launcher system is expected to go through final testing and live-fire trials by late 2024 or early 2025. Once approved, all 31 boats in the fleet will receive the updates in phases to maintain operational readiness. (Source: https://www.sofx.com/)
10 May 24. Romania receives US approval for AIM-9X Sidewinder sale.
The US has agreed a $70m deal to enhance Romania’s air-to-air capabilities. To fortify its defence infrastructure, Romania secured approval from the United States for the acquisition of AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II missiles, signalling a deepening alliance between the two nations.
The decision to equip the Romanian Air Force’s F-16 fleet with these air-to-air missiles comes amidst growing concerns over security threats in the region. With Block II technology at its disposal, Romania stands poised to enhance its operational readiness and deter potential aggressors.
US Chargé d’Affaires Michael Dickerson hailed the approval as a testament to the enduring partnership between Romania and the United States, emphasising that the sale transcends mere transactional significance. “This acquisition is not just a transaction; it is a testament to our shared commitment to security and peace,” remarked Dickerson. “These advanced missiles will ensure the safety of the Romanian sky, further solidifying our collective defence posture.”
The AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II missiles represent air-to-air missile technology currently deployed by the US military. With their track record of accuracy and reliability, these munitions will equip Romania with a deterrent capability, safeguarding its airspace against potential threats.
The US Air Force received its 10,000th AIM-9X Sidewinder short-range air-to-air missile (SRAAM) in 2021, marking a milestone in the joint US Navy and Air Force programme led by Raytheon. Despite this, the US Department of Defense (DoD) has announced plans to ramp up production of the AIM-9X Sidewinder, aiming for a total of 2,500 missiles to support various branches of the US military and foreign partners.
The US Department of Defense has approved several sales of AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles to various countries, including Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, and Ukraine.
(Source: Google/ airforce-technology.com)
13 May 24. KONGSBERG, Diehl and MBDA Deutschland enter agreement to develop the Super Sonic Strike Missile (3SM Tyrfing). Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (“KONGSBERG”), along with its German partners Diehl and MBDA Deutschland, have teamed to ensure the successful development of the future Norwegian and German super-sonic strike missile known as 3SM Tyrfing.
The Norwegian government announced this initiative in November 2023 and the industry team essential for the success of this project have now entered their partnership agreement.
This partnership, led by KONGSBERG, combines the strengths of these companies and brings together decades of missile development experience to create this highly advanced, long distance, maneuverable super-sonic strike missile for the Norwegian and German customers as well as Allied customers in the future.
The team will work closely with the Norwegian and German Defence Forces as well as their national research organisations to define and develop the world’s most advanced long range strike capability designed to meet future surface threats.
“I am so impressed with the depth and capabilities in this team. I look forward to cooperating with Diehl and MBDA Deutschland and combining our teams’ knowledge and expertise to develop 3SM for both of our nations,” said Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace.
Thomas Gottschild, Managing Director of MBDA Deutschland, said: “As we have seen over the last 2 years, stand-off weapons are crucial for credible deterrence and defence. Joining forces between our companies will strengthen the Norwegian, German and European armed forces improving the defence of our home nations.”
“We are proud having established a team of the best experts of our companies, who complement each other, trust each other and contribute their individual knowledge and skills. Together, we will develop a game changer with 3SM that none of us could develop on our own,” said Helmut Rauch, CEO of Diehl Defence.
15 May 24. U.S. Department of Defense Statement on the Signing of the Glide Phase Interceptor Cooperative Development. Today, the United States Department of Defense (DoD) and Japan Ministry of Defense (MOD) have finalized a formal agreement for a Glide Phase Interceptor (GPI) Cooperative Development (GCD) Project Arrangement under the U.S.-Japan bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for Research, Development, Test and Evaluation Projects (RDT&E).
By pursuing an agreement on GPI development, the U.S. and Japan will strengthen regional deterrence while enhancing long-standing missile defense cooperation between the two countries.
The U.S. Missile Defense Agency is leading the development of GPI for the DoD, which will provide hypersonic missile defense capability during the glide-phase portion of hypersonic flight. Per the signed GPI Cooperative Development (GCD), Japan will lead development of rocket motors and propulsion components of GPI.
GPI will deliver a regional defensive capability over time as part of a holistic layered defensive architecture. The GPI co-development will build upon long-standing U.S.-Japan missile defense cooperation and strengthen the Alliance deterrence posture. (Source: U.S. DoD)
15 May 24. Nammo and Raytheon to expand US rocket motor manufacturing.
Congressman Dunn welcomes the partnership’s commitment to Perry’s economy and US national security.
In a move set to fortify the US’ domestic manufacturing capabilities, international aerospace player Nammo teams up with Raytheon, a US defence provider, to expand rocket motor production in Perry, Florida.
Nammo and Raytheon announced a partnership to enhance US rocket motor manufacturing capabilities while strengthening the economic landscape of Perry, Florida. Congressman Neal Dunn of Florida-02 expressed his enthusiasm for the venture, citing its potential to invigorate the local economy and bolster national security efforts.
The agreement shows a shared commitment to fostering domestic production of solid rocket motors. Nammo, known for its solid rocket propulsion since the 1960s, will leverage its capabilities to expand operations into the US. Raytheon, a stalwart in defence solutions, will provide support to ensure the venture’s success.
With 22% of the North American missiles and missile defence systems market, Raytheon Technologies Corp is projected to be the second largest shareholder in the region, according to GlobalData’s Global Missiles & Missile Defense Systems Market 2023-2033 report.
“This agreement will give the United States a reliable domestic source of rocket motors for the foreseeable future while strengthening the North Florida economy,” remarked Congressman Dunn.
The expanded facility, slated to open its doors in 2027, is poised to provide the US with rocket motor production. With Nammo’s track record of delivering more than 35,000 rocket motors for programmes such as Sidewinder, coupled with Raytheon, the joint venture hopes to further elevate America’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
“We are proud to build upon our established solid rocket motor capabilities in Norway for expansion into the US, with the strong commitment from Raytheon as a merchant supplier.,” emphasised Morten Brandtzaeg, president and CEO of Nammo.
“This collaboration is a testament to our long-standing and trusted relationship. It underscores our joint dedication to strengthening the solid rocket motor industrial base to support growing US and allied needs, with Nammo as an independent rocket motor supplier to missile primes.”
Phil Jasper, president of Raytheon, echoed Brandtzaeg’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of the partnership.
“This project brings critical capacity and capability in solid rocket motor manufacturing to the US industrial base and positions Raytheon to secure the energetic and propulsion material required to increase and accelerate manufacturing of our weapon systems,” stated Jasper.
Perry, Florida, emerges as a hub for advancing aerospace manufacturing and fortifying national security infrastructure.
Other US rocket motor industry developments within the last few years include Northrop Grumman beginning production on rocket motors at its facility in West Virginia, aiming to meet the US Military’s growing demand, particularly for the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS). Concurrently, Aerojet Rocketdyne has secured a ten-year agreement to supply solid rocket motors to the US Navy’s Indian Head Division in Maryland. (Source: Google/airforce-technology.com)
14 May 24. Industry begins bidding on contracts in UK hypersonics.
This £1bn framework will select suppliers to support research, development and testing of hypersonic technologies right through to a capability at pace.
Some 90 organisations from across industry and academia have secured a place within Britain’s new £1bn ($1.25bn) hypersonics and capability development framework (HTCDF).
Hypersonic refers to aerial objects – aircraft, missiles, rockets – that can reach speeds through the atmosphere greater than Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound, (nearly 4,000 miles per hour). At the same time, this high-speed tech must also be manoeuvrable mid-flight.
China, Russia and the US are all testing hypersonic technology, generating fears of escalating global competition for weaponry that has the potential to render current defences inadequate.
In an effort to develop a sovereign hypersonic strike capability, the UK has opened up the bidding process for contracts under HTCDF in line with the government’s new procurement ecosystem known as the Integrated Procurement Model (IPM).
The HTCDF initiative is led by the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) Team Hypersonics UK, while the award of contracts on the framework will be managed by commercial experts at Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S).
The HTCDF will also re-open to new suppliers every six to 12 months to ensure that the MoD can continue to draw upon new technologies and emerging market capabilities.
DE&S stress the importance of delivering in a timely manner.
Under the new IPM, which is still due to reach minimal viable product in early 2025, the government hopes to confront presumptions right from the outset by taking a cross-departmental approach to the programme form the start of acquiring a solution from the contractor.
The new model is a proven concept given DE&S received the first of its new Archer howitzer systems from Sweden just six months after the government signed the contract. However, it may prove more complicated to deliver an evolving technology, which has yet to enter the global defence market in a fully fledged state of application.
Although Russia’s use of its ‘hypersonic’ Kinzhal missile in Ukraine has been confirmed, while Ukraine’s Armed Forces have also claimed the first successful interception of such missiles, this is slightly misleading. Kinzhal is not technically a hypersonic weapon; while it does reach Mach 5 it is not as manoeuvrable as it ought to be to qualify as a hypersonic missile.
Likewise, the US has culminated in fielding its first hypersonics platform in 2023, the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system – a glide vehicle with a boost system – for its Zumwalt-class destroyers. GlobalData intelligence projected this system to dominate proposed spending in 2023, accounting for 44.1% of the nation’s missiles and missile defence budget.
Yet, it should be understood that the installation of the CPS is part of a middle tier of acquisition in the US Navy’s second phase of development. This is a pathway used to rapidly develop fieldable prototypes within an acquisition programme which means the programme remains at a very early stage.
Nonetheless, “hypersonics will be a landmark capability of the future and it is essential that we keep pace with the developments of our adversaries,” the UK Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge, stated. (Source: airforce-technology.com)
13 May 24. K9 Thunder to fit on Polish Krab chassis under new export deal. Hanwha Aerospace consolidate their European foothold in the Polish defence market with a new export deal to fit the Korean gun onto the Krab chassis.
Polish and South Korean industry leaders met in Warsaw on 10 May 2024 to sign a Letter of Intent that will define the scope of future co-operation between Hanwha Aerospace and Huta Stalowa Wola, a company in Poland’s state-owned defence conglomerate PGZ.
The document will serve as the basis to export components used in the Korean K9 Thunder and Polish Krab howitzers.
“The Krab chassis and the K9 howitzer have the same origins,” PGZ suggested in a statement before it revealed that the new agreement will assess the possibility of using the Krab chassis for the Korean K9A2 and K9A3 gun howitzers.
“It is worth mentioning that in the past, the Korean chassis was successfully adapted to the Polish Krab turret system,” the group added.
Krab and K9
K9 Thunder is a 155mm and 52-calibre self-propelled howitzer that provides effective and deep fire support in all kinds of theatres. Built on a mobile platform, the K9 delivers a high rate of fire at long range.
K9A2 will integrate a fully automated turret, delivering enhanced levels of automation, lethality, survivability, and digitalisation. The latest K9A3 variant is set to feature extended range through the integration of a 58-calibre barrel, alongside the inclusion of further automation and artificial intelligence capabilities, and is due to enter the market in the early 2030s.
Meanwhile, the Krab is also a 155mm mobile howitzer system; the Polish Army initially procured a total of 72 vehicles. It features an all-welded steel hull offering protection from small arms fire and shell splinters. The vehicle houses five crew members.
K9 standing in Europe and the world
Hanwha has an established presence in the Polish defence market more than any other European nation as the country currently has an order for 1,000 K2 tanks, more than 600 K9 howitzers and three FA-50 fighter aircraft from the Korean supplier.
The defence group also has eight other global K9 consumers, including Australia, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, India, Norway, South Korea, and Türkiye – three of which are European.
However, this latest agreement comes just off the back of the British Army’s rejection of the K9 for the German Remote-Controlled Howitzer-155 toward the end of April 2024. A week later, a Hanwha Aerospace UK spokesperson pointed out the lack of comparative competition before the decision was announced, noting “It’s been difficult to really view it as a way where everyone has been considered in equal fashion.”
Undeterred, Hanwha Aerospace look to consolidate their strongest foothold in Europe as they look for future opportunities to tap into the European defence market:
“The concluded agreement extends the scope of cooperation between Huta Stalowa Wola and Hanwha Aerospace in the production of the Homar-K launcher, including the transfer of technology, its further Polonisation, as well as adaptation to the 122mm unguided missiles.
“Additionally, the agreement opens the way for co-operation between the parties in offering the Homar-K launcher to other markets on Nato’s eastern flank.” (Source: army-technology.com)
15 May 24. OCCAR contracts MBDA to launch HYDIS² concept phase. MBDA has signed with the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR – Organisation Conjointe de Cooperation en Matière d’Armement), a European Defence Fund grant agreement on behalf of the partners of the HYpersonic Defence Interceptor Study (HYDIS2) Consortium and a Linked Procurement Contract (member states co-funding), on 15 May, launching the HYDIS2 concept phase.
The European Commission selected the HYDIS² project for funding in July 2023 and the governments of France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands decided to co-fund.
The signature between MBDA and OCCAR marks the beginning of a three-year concept phase, a major milestone which objective is to select the most suitable and effective counter-hypersonic and anti-ballistic concept with the associated weapon architecture.
Coordinated by MBDA, this new chapter will allow the partners to:
- collect and harmonize the definition of operational scenarios and weapon systems interface, taking into account the European and NATO roadmaps
- build a joint definition of each threat based on the knowledge and expertise of all the partners involved
- consolidate weapon system requirements and integration in the whole engagement chain
- select the most suitable counter-hypersonic and anti-ballistic concept of interceptor for European nations’ needs, with the associated weapon system architecture to prepare an Assessment Phase and aim at an in-service date at 2035 horizon
- mature the technologies that enable the implementation of the counter-hypersonic concept in the next programme phase
- create the industrial network to develop the future counter-hypersonic missile systems
MBDA coordinates the HYDIS² consortium, bringing together 19 partners and more than 20 subcontractors in 14 European countries. Along with MBDA in France, Germany, Italy and Spain, the partners are ArianeGroup, AVIO, Avio Aero, Bayern-Chemie, CIRA, DLR, GKN Fokker, LYNRED, OHB System AG, ONERA, ROXEL France, THALES LAS France, TDW, THALES Netherlands and TNO. HYDIS² is a central element of the contribution of European states to the mission of defending populations and armed forces, in particular against emerging hypersonic threats, which constitute a radical change with respect to ballistic ones.
complex weapon systems, playing a key role in keeping nations safe. Created in the spirit of international co-operation, MBDA and its 14,000+ employees work together to support the national sovereignty of France, Germany, Italy, Spain and
13 May 24. DSA 2024: Malaysian Army’s 6×6 self-propelled howitzer procurement faces delay. The Malaysian Army has expressed its willingness to initiate the 6×6 155 mm/52 calibre self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) procurement programme – which is facing delays since it was announced in 2010 – in 2024 at the Defence Services Asia (DSA) 2024 exhibition held at Kuala Lumpur from 6 to 9 May.
The Malaysian Army’s 6×6 SPH procurement programme is “important” for the service as determined by “our doctrine”, General Tan Sri Dato’ Muhammad Hafizuddeain bin Jantan, chief of the Malaysian Army, told Janes at the exhibition.
“But we [the Malaysian Army] are still waiting for the government approval to procure the systems. We are in the final stage of talks with the government to procure the SPHs and the government may approve the procurement by the end of 2024,” Gen Jantan said. (Source: Janes)
11 May 24. Hanwha Aerospace From South Korea Partners with Malaysian Company to Offer K239 Chunmoo Rocket Launchers.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, May 11, 2024 – Hanwha Aerospace, South Korea’s premier aerospace and defense organization, has entered into a memorandum of understanding with Widad Business Group, a prominent Malaysian investment company. The partnership aims to supply the K239 Chunmoo rocket launcher for the Malaysian Army’s upcoming acquisition of multiple rocket launch systems.
This preliminary agreement was formalized on May 6 by Tan Sri Dato Muhammad Ikmal Opat Abdullah, Chairman of Widad Business Group, and Go Sang-hwe, Executive Vice President of Hanwha Aerospace and General Manager of its Daejeon Plant. The signing ceremony was a highlight of the Defence Service Asia (DSA) Exhibition and Conference 2024, running from May 6-9 in Kuala Lumpur. Distinguished attendees included Malaysia’s Defense Minister Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, South Korea’s Minister of Defense Acquisition Program Administration Seok Jong-gun, Malaysian Chief of Armed Forces General Tan Sri Muhammad Ab Rahman, and General Tan Sri Dato’ Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, Chief of the Malaysian Army.
Expressing his confidence in the partnership, Tan Sri Dato Muhammad Ikmal Opat Abdullah praised Hanwha’s global defense achievements. “With their ambition, innovation, and drive to excel internationally, Hanwha Aerospace is the ideal partner to propel our growth in the defense sector,” he remarked, anticipating beneficial outcomes from this collaboration.
From Hanwha’s side, Go Sang-hwe reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing Malaysia’s military capabilities. “Through this MOU, we are set to explore effective strategies to bolster the defense landscape in Malaysia, ensuring collaborative success and prosperity,” he stated.
As part of its defense modernization strategy, Malaysia plans to replace its outdated fleet of 36 Astros II systems, procured from Brazil, with advanced rocket launchers and support vehicles by 2026. The call for final proposals is scheduled for the second quarter of 2025.
The K239 Chunmoo, a state-of-the-art self-propelled multiple rocket launcher, is already in service with South Korea, Poland, and other Middle Eastern nations. Notable for its versatility, the K239 MRLS can accommodate two types of rocket pods simultaneously, and each launcher vehicle is supported by an ammunition vehicle carrying four reload pods. It supports a variety of munitions, including 130mm and 239mm rockets, and a 290mm ballistic missile, capable of striking targets up to 290 km away. This missile was recently successfully tested in South Korea under the Polish Homar-K project at a national test site.
(Source: Google/https://armyrecognition.com/)
———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————
About Galvion:
Galvion designs, develops, and delivers mission critical head, face, and torso protective solutions as well as intelligent power and data management systems for the world’s most demanding military and tactical teams. Founded in 2002 as Revision Military, a foundational belief in calculated investment and capability expansion led to a strategic refocus, resulting in the divestiture of the protective eyewear business, along with the Revision name, in 2019. Rebranded as Galvion, the company’s products and technology continue to evolve beyond purely passive protection, focusing instead on active systems that enhance performance and survivability, with an eye to the ever-changing demands of the modern battlefield. Through advanced design, keen end-user insight and intelligent integration, Galvion engineers uniquely customized solutions that go beyond what was once thought possible.
Privately owned with ISO 9001:2015 certified facilities in Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire in the US, Montreal in Canada and Bristol in the UK, Galvion’s team of 400+ employees work proactively to solve the problems left unsolved by others.
——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————