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22 Jun 24. Boeing develops REVOLVER System enabling C-17 aircraft to launch multiple X-51A hypersonic missiles. The defense sector has been stunned by a groundbreaking development in military aviation and missile technology, driven by Boeing’s latest innovations. A new REVOLVER launcher system, designed to fit within the cargo compartment of the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, has been unveiled, showcasing unprecedented capabilities in deploying Boeing X-51A Waverider hypersonic cruise missiles.
This state-of-the-art launcher features two sequentially installed drums and an advanced electromagnetic catapult mechanism, enabling the rapid launch of up to 12 Boeing X-51A Waverider hypersonic cruise missiles. The system’s design ensures that each missile can be deployed with precision and speed, enhancing the United States’ aerial strike capabilities.
The Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, a high-capacity military transport aircraft, is renowned for its versatility and robust performance in various missions, including troop deployment, medical evacuation, and cargo transport. With a payload capacity of 78,000 kg (170,900 pounds) and a range of 4,450 km (2,400 nautical miles) (unrefueled), the C-17 is a critical asset for global military operations. Its ability to integrate advanced systems like the REVOLVER launcher further cements its role as a cornerstone of modern military logistics and operations.
The Boeing X-51A Waverider is a hypersonic cruise missile that has been at the forefront of hypersonic technology development. Designed to travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, the X-51A can deliver precision strikes over long distances, making it a strategic asset in modern warfare. The missile’s scramjet engine allows for sustained hypersonic flight, pushing the boundaries of current missile technology.
While integrating the REVOLVER launcher within the C-17 Globemaster III is not yet ready, Boeing has released virtual images and videos showcasing the potential of this revolutionary system. These visual materials, published on X, have generated significant excitement and anticipation within the defense community. The imagery provides a glimpse into how the system will operate, demonstrating the rapid deployment of hypersonic missiles and the transformative impact it could have on aerial combat capabilities.
The successful future integration and testing of the REVOLVER launcher and X-51A Waverider within the C-17 platform will underscore the ongoing evolution of military capabilities in response to emerging threats. This technological advancement not only promises to enhance current military operations but also sets new standards for rapid, high-speed missile deployment. As nations continue to invest in defense technologies, such developments will be crucial in maintaining strategic superiority.
This revolutionary advancement in military aviation marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of defense technology. Launching multiple hypersonic missiles in quick succession enables swift, decisive action in critical scenarios, providing a significant edge in modern warfare. The future prospects of such systems indicate further innovations and enhancements in hypersonic warfare technology, ensuring that strategic superiority is maintained in the face of evolving threats. (Source: Google/https://armyrecognition.com/)
18 Jun 24. KNDS offers the complete range of proven artillery systems:
- Almost 200 KNDS artillery systems are in service or under contract for Ukraine.
- Ukraine becomes the 9th user of the PzH 2000, 400 of which have been ordered by several European customers, and the 10th user of the CAESAR, of which more than 600 have been ordered since it came into service.
A complete range of artillery systems: The CAESAR has proven to be robust, reliable and easy to maintain as much in counter-insurgency as in high-intensity warfare. These operational capabilities proven all around the world led the CAESAR to become the most ordered modern artillery system. Hence, KNDS has multiplied by three the production rate of the CAESAR to meet the needs of all its customers: today, six CAESAR are produced each month.
For the first time, KNDS displays the CAESAR MkII: a new 6×6 chassis with a more powerful engine, an enhanced protection and a cab prepared for the SCORPION combat information system (SIC-S).
The state-of-the-art RCH 155 wheeled howitzer and the field-proven PzH 2000 both demonstrate technological leadership in the 155mm gun sector.
Currently, Ukrainian Army have signed 54 RCH 155 with KNDS. UK and Germany have recently agreed to co-develop the RCH 155 with KNDS with a potential of 400 artillery systems. KNDS is cooperating with its partners to develop and to deliver SHORAD, and C-UAV.
An expanding club of CAESAR and PzH 2000 users: Ukraine has become the 10th user of the CAESAR. 78 systems are currently under production this year to the entire benefit of the Ukrainian army. More than 600 CAESAR are now in service or under contract: France recently notified KNDS for an order of 109 CAESAR MkII. Due to the donor of 25 PzH 2000 to Ukrainian Army, KNDS has currently 41 PzH 2000 for new production under contract, 54 more systems are under discussion for Germany and UA.
The KATANA ammunition to heighten the precision of 155mm artillery systems: The conflict in Ukraine has shown the particular need of long-range proven artillery systems for counter-battery and high precision strikes. To ensure a maximum precision, KNDS is developing the KATANA guided ammunition that will allow 10 meters precision strike beyond 40km. KATANA will be offered by the end of 2025. The ammunition is currently undergoing guidance test in jammed environment.
(Source: www.joint-forces.com)
21 Jun 24. India advances light attack helicopter program with large tender. Thanks to its high-altitude performance, the Light Combat Helicopter – or LCH for short – is an important aviation platform for India’s military. Now, a major acquisition of this helicopter type has moved forward after India’s Ministry of Defence issued a request for proposals.
The RfP was issued to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the designer and manufacturer of the 5.8-ton LCH Prachand. The request asked for 156 helicopters, split into 90 for the Indian Army and 66 for the Indian Air Force.
Release of the RfP was confirmed by HAL in a stock exchange filing on June 17. The deal is expected to be worth more than 450 bn rupees (around US$5.4 bn) once negotiations conclude and a contract is issued.
In response to the news, HAL shares surged 6.5% to hit a record 5,582.80 rupees.
Defense News sought additional information about the tender from HAL, but had received no reply by press time.
K.P Sanjeev Kumar, a former Indian naval aviation test pilot and aviation commentator, told Defense News that this tender “is a significant milestone in India’s journey of making customized helicopters for its armed forces”.
He said the LCH Prachand is “arguably the only attack helicopter that packs a punch all the way from sea level to super high altitude”. It can take off and land at altitudes of 16,400ft (5,000m), thus making it ideal for operations along India’s mountainous borders with China and Pakistan.
Armaments on the LCH include Mistral air-to-air missiles, up to four FZ231 2.75-inch (70mm) rocket pods, a nose-mounted M621 20mm cannon and, in the future, Dhruvastra air-to-ground missiles.
Although the LCH is considered an indigenous design, only a 45% level of local content was attained in 15 limited series production LCHs delivered in 2022-2023. However, HAL’s goal is to reach 55% local content with the 156 series-produced helicopters.
An important reason for the increase in indigenous content is a 2023 agreement with Safran for full technology transfer of the Shakti 1H1 engines that power it.
The LCH’s development has been protracted, its maiden flight occurring way back in 2010. Sanjeev Kumar noted “product improvement is a continuous process,” and that, hopefully, HAL will address legacy issues of other HAL helicopters, such as low time between overhaul of key subassemblies, in the LCH.
Sanjeev Kumar concluded: “So long as attack helicopters remain relevant in the battlespace, the LCH will be a vital weapon in India’s arsenal.” These Prachands will operate alongside 28 AH-64E Apache helicopters procured from Boeing in the U.S.
This tender comes on the heels of an RfP for 97 Light Combat Aircraft Mk 1A aircraft issued to HAL in April. As at March 31, HAL’s order books stood in excess of 940 bn rupees, even before these LCA and LCH orders were lodged. (Source: Defense News)
19 Jun 24. Elusive hypersonic arms need Western teamwork, NATO researcher says. Hypersonic weapons are likely still decades away from fielding, and the requisite research is best carried out collaboratively among Western nations, according to Kerstin Huber, executive officer for applied vehicle technology at NATO’s Science and Technology Organization.
“I would think it needs another 20 years,” Huber told Defense News on the sidelines of a round table discussion on the technology at the Eurosatory defense show in Paris.
Governments have generally been tight-lipped about hypersonic technology, which could provide an edge over adversaries, or lead to an arms race. Hypersonic missiles are typically defined as flying faster than five times the speed of sound while being maneuverable in atmospheric conditions, and their fundamental challenge is the extreme heat generated during flight.
“With this new type of technology, you will not be able to rush into things,” Huber said during the briefing. “It will take a number of nations, a number of scientists, industries to collaborate in order to tackle the challenges.”
NATO partners should consider working on hypersonic technology within the alliance framework, “because every single nation brings a certain puzzle piece to the bigger picture.” The U.S. has lots of outer space-related infrastructure that will be needed to develop the technology, Australia has the requisite space – geographically speaking – for testing and Europe is strong on materials science and numerical simulation, Huber said.
Shielding hypersonic missiles’ sensitive electronics, understanding how various materials behave and predicting aerodynamics at temperatures as high as 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit (1,649 degrees Celsius) will require extensive flight testing, the U.S. Congressional Budget Office said in a 2023 report, adding that test failures in recent years have delayed progress.
Hypersonic missiles could cost one-third more than ballistic missiles of the same range with maneuverable warheads, according to CBO analysts.
While Russia has been using something it calls hypersonic weapons, Huber questioned whether the country has really developed technology that meets the typical definition.
The number of actors who would be able to build such a capacity is “quite limited” due to the high level of technology required, according to Col. Christophe Cabaj, in charge of missile capacity architecture at France’s armaments agency, who participated in the round table.
The high speed at which hypersonic missiles travel and the heat generated as a result means they’re surrounded by ionized air, which makes communication, navigation, guidance and control “very difficult,” according to Huber. Development of new materials is helping protect sensors, she said.
Much of the information around solutions for hypersonics to deal with the high temperatures is classified, according to Lionel Mazenq, who helps develop advanced systems at pan-European missile maker MBDA. “This is well-known that ceramic materials are of key importance, as well as very high temperature alloys. Going into more details is difficult.” (Source: Defense News)
20 Jun 24. European ammo firms tell EU to ‘hurry up’ with 155mm shell aid top-up. European policymakers should urgently provide more funding to increase production of the propellant and explosive materials required to manufacture 155mm artillery shells, ammunition makers Nammo and KNDS said at the Eurosatory defense show in Paris.
“The response from the industry: hurry up,” said Morten Brandtzaeg, the CEO of Nammo, in response to a round table question about the need for European Union financing beyond the €500m (U.S. $536m) ASAP program allocated in March. “We need to get this in place as soon as possible.”
The scaling up of artillery shell production to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia’s invasion equates to “an industrial war,” and the time lag to boost output is concerning, the Nammo CEO told Defense News on the sidelines of the round table discussion.
While the EU says annual European production capacity of 155mm shells reached one m in January, the bloc was only able to deliver slightly more than half of one m shells promised to Ukraine by March. The ASAP program will help Europe reach production capacity of 2m shells a year by the end of 2025, according to the European Commission.
The requirements to further boost raw-materials production have already been identified as part of ASAP, and there is no new tender necessary should the European Commission for example decide to invest an additional €200 m, according to Dominique Guillet, vice president of ammunition at KNDS. “We know what is necessary. It’s just a decision to take.”
Beyond financing capacity, companies need to take into account research-and-development funding, with long range and precision important for future munitions, and loitering munition another new development that needs to be considered, said Guillet.
The industry also needs to consider “the end of the peak and the big volume,” and how to manage the new assets beyond that, according to Thierry Francou, the CEO of French artillery-propellant manufacturer Eurenco.
Brandtzaeg said he “fully supports” coordinating demand, for example with one European country holding a significant amount of explosives, while another has significant capacity to fill warheads. The Nammo CEO cautioned against industry consolidation, however, while Guillet and Francou also expressed doubts about further concentration in the European ammunition industry.
“It’s not the time for consolidating something you are in short supply of,” Brandtzaeg said. “There are a handful of players in Europe. They should not be fewer, but a few should be bigger.”
The price of a 155mm shell produced in Western Europe ranges from a low of $5,000 to more than $10,000 for the high-end ammunition, a senior industry executive attending the round table told Defense News.
Ammunition manufacturers face higher supply-chain costs due to more demand for machinery, as well as more expensive energy, which is “a big weight,” according to Francou.
“We have an increase in pricing of all the machinery, and this is the case of everyone in this room,” Francou said. “One example: In order to accelerate the investment, we accept to overpay in order to be first in line. If I have time, I can do it cheaper, but in three years. So in the end, what is the price of the acceleration right now?”
The price of small-caliber ammunition has also doubled. “This is the market during the last five years,” Francou said.
Brandtzaeg at Nammo said price hikes aren’t only due to the war in Ukraine, but started already because of the Covid-19 pandemic, and setting up a new ammunition factory takes two to three years. (Source: Defense News Early Bird/Defense News)
21 Jun 24. Kongsberg Unveils Maneuverable Short-Range Air Defense System. Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has unveiled a highly mobile, ground-based air defense system designed for maneuvering army units.
The National Maneuver Air Defence System (NOMADS) has drawn lessons from the Ukraine war, offering protection against drones, cruise missiles, and fixed and rotating-wing aircraft.
“NOMADS can defend against small, short-range targets such as drones and cruise missiles, providing unique protection against threats like those currently seen in Ukraine,” executive vice president of Defence Systems at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace Kjetil Reiten Myhra said.
“Its configuration is designed for rapid movement over rough terrain and with unprecedented into-action-time.”
National Maneuver Air Defence System
It consists of a SHORAD (Short Range Air Defense) module mounted on an armored vehicle. The system is vehicle-agnostic.
“This module integrates key command and control functions and applications from the medium-range NASAMS system and includes a passive seeker missile and an AESA radar,” Kongsberg explained.
Additional features include a radar with identification friend or foe and a remote weapon station for self-protection.
Delivered and Tested
NOMADS is networked and integrated into NATO Integrated Air & Missile Defence and is adaptable to any NATO-compatible ground-based air defense mission or unit.
The system was developed for the Norwegian Army and has already been delivered and tested by the service.
(Source: Google/https://www.thedefensepost.com/)
20 Jun 24. Lockheed Martin Integrates Command and Control Capabilities with First Joint Fires Network Prototype. Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) successfully integrated digital command and control (C2) capabilities with the first version of the Department of Defense’s Joint Fires Network during the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s (INDOPACOM) Valiant Shield exercise. Valiant Shield marks the first test of the initial Joint Fires Network prototype. The Joint Fires Network (JFN) demonstration integrated technologies with third-party capabilities as part of an enterprise architecture. With JFN, geographically dispersed commanders are able to simultaneously plan and execute with a shared common understanding of the battlespace, fed by sensors from any platform, which can provide targeting guidance to any weapon systems.
Live, Theater-level Operational Planning: The exercise showcased the seamless integration of Lockheed Martin’s advanced command and control functions, employing Operational Planning to coordinate real-time decision-making across the theater of operations, with all the Services and operational domains. This approach enhanced the agility and responsiveness of joint operations, using live real-time data, and producing joint tasking orders in an operationally relevant environment. “By seamlessly integrating advanced C2 planning capability, we are enhancing critical warfighter workflows and decision-making. This focus ensures our Service members are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in complex, real-world scenarios, paving the way for faster, more effective mission integration.” – Erika Marshall, C4ISR vice president at Lockheed Martin
Dive Deeper
- Valiant Shield is a biennial training activity involving thousands of U.S. military personnel and more than 200 ships, aircraft and ground vehicles with a focus on integrating forces in multiple domains, and is a cornerstone of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s integrated deterrence strategy to prevent conflict in the region. JFN is INDOPACOM’s vision to demonstrate near-term decision superiority capabilities to enhance joint fires planning and execution.
- The digital C2 system integrates Lockheed Martin’s proven, fielded multi-domain battle management, command and control (BMC2) software with technologies from across the industry.
- Improvements were made to the C2 Planning Software, streamlining operator workflows by making machine interactions intuitive, enabling real-time monitoring, and facilitating seamless integration with other technologies.
- Lockheed Martin participated in a series of immersive operator training sessions on the C2 planning system ahead of the demonstration using a high-fidelity mission simulator to give operators hands-on practice in a secure, operational-like setting.
- Valiant Shield 2024 represents the seventh exercise in which Lockheed Martin has partnered with INDOPACOM to improve interoperability and advance integrated deterrence.
21 Jun 24. Germany takes next steps in hypersonic weapons project with Norway, Spiegel reports. German Defence Ministry has submitted a request for around 652 m euros ($697.18 m) to the parliament’s budget committee to finance a hypersonic weapons development project with Norway, Spiegel magazine reported on Friday. In mid-May, Norway’s defence group Kongsberg (KOG.OL) announced a partnership with Germany’s Diehl and MBDA to develop a super-sonic missile known as 3SM Tyrfing. Hypersonic missiles, which can travel at up to 25 times the speed of sound, have been used by Russia in its war in Ukraine and are a cause of concern among NATO members. (Source: Reuters)
20 Jun 24. Nato’s new €1bn venture fund is investing in Munich rocket microlauncher start-up Isar Aerospace as the alliance’s European member states seek to harness private sector space capabilities for security needs. The Nato Innovation Fund, backed by 24 countries excluding the US, Canada and France, has joined several other new investors in a £220mn series C fundraising that values Isar at roughly $1bn, according to people close to the company. This takes the total raised since Isar was founded in 2018 by three German postgraduate students to more than $400mn. The company is raising the funds to build a bigger, fully automated factory near Munich, where it intends to produce at least 40 of its Spectrum rockets a year by the end of the decade, according to co-founder and chief executive Daniel Metzler. This is more than was planned just over a year ago at the start of its fundraising. “We realised through the last year or two that the space industry has been picking up significantly,” he said. “We feel we will need more rockets rather than less.” Military interest in space has accelerated since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Defence spending in the space domain last year surpassed investment in civil programmes for the first time, according to Novaspace, a market analytics group. Some 107 defence and dual-use satellites were launched in 2023 by 17 governments, Novaspace reported, up 40 per cent on 2022. To keep costs down, the world’s biggest space powers are emphasising greater collaboration with commercial service providers. In April, the US Department of Defense set out its commercial space integration strategy, while the EU last year also published its first “space strategy for security and defence”, calling for investment in more dual-use technologies. Andrea Traversone, managing partner of the Nato Innovation Fund, said access to space was “critical to the technological sovereignty of Europe and the UK”. Isar offered a “promising technology”, he said, adding that the fund would help it identify government and commercial opportunities. Metzler said the fund was “more than just an investor . . . It is a big potential customer either through Nato itself or through the individual countries”. Recommended News in-depth Space industry Rocket revolution threatens to undo decades of European unity on space The Isar chief executive said military customers were expected to account for about 20-30 per cent of overall demand in the near future. However, commercial customers would still dominate at 50 per cent. Isar is one of a handful of European rocket start-ups hoping to tap into booming demand for space-based communication and observation services. The group is attempting to replicate the success of Elon Musk’s SpaceX by doing the design, manufacture and testing of its vertical launch system in-house. Isar’s microlauncher will fly small and medium-sized satellites into space, with a total capacity to carry 1,000kg into low earth orbit. Spectrum was due to fly last year but technical challenges led to delays, according to Metzler, who said the first flight was now expected to take place this year from the Andøya space port in Norway. “We are now at the point where we are literally just waiting for a permit to do the final-stage testing of the vehicle and go into test flight,” he said. “We are ready.” However, he added that Andøya was still waiting for permits to host launches. (Source: FT.com)
19 Jun 24. The SAMP/T NG system is developed in close cooperation between France and Italy. Originally designed to manage the ammunitions of the ASTER family (ASTER 30 B1 and ASTER 30 B1NT), the SAMP/T NG provides the ability to engage air threats at long range while offering an autonomous capability against ballistic missiles.
In addition to the ASTER capacity, the SAMP/T NG will implement a multirange/multilayer capacity (SHORAD Vertical Launchers) with a subordinated auto-protection to face the whole spectrum of air threats (MTO, drones, ABT and TBM). In this new configuration, the SAMP/T NG becomes a fully scalable system able to face any saturating and combined attacks. As such, the SAMP/T NG is becoming the unique European system able to integrate various effectors in full NATO operative ABT/TBM chain.
Thanks to the open architecture of its Module of Engagement New Generation (ME NG), the Multirange/Multilayer SAMP/T NG will be able to:
- integrate various multifunction firing radars such as Thales Ground Fire or Leonardo Kronos Grand Mobile High Power
- integrate and manage distinct launchers:
o up to six ASTER launchers with 8 missiles ready to fire (combination of ASTER 30 B1 and B1NT)
o up to six Short-Range Air Defence (SHORAD) launchers such as VL MICA or CAMM-ER launchers
- manage V-SHORAD assets
- be fully integrated in a NATO Tactical Control Chain and in a Command Chain with upper layer Command and Control centers.
The ME NG is the core of the system. It is developed in cooperation between Thales and MBDA Italia. The ME-NG is based on a common core hardware and software architecture and is able to integrate national specific requirements as well as different radars, to coordinate or to integrate different weapon systems based on different munitions.
20 Jun 24. As arms sales boom, Norway’s Kongsberg opens missile factory.
- Will supply ‘several hundreds of missiles’ per year
- West in race to build its arms production capacity
- Kongsberg mulls new missile plant in US or Australia
Norwegian defence manufacturer Kongsberg Gruppen (KOG.OL) opened a new missile factory on Thursday to meet surging demand for weapons from Western countries spooked by Russia’s war in Ukraine and China’s modernisation of its armed forces.
NATO allies are racing to increase their own production of weapons, ammunition and missiles, partly to supply Ukraine but also to replenish stocks and be able to counter new threats.
The decision to build the plant, nestled among pine-covered hills outside Kongsberg about 90 km (56 miles) southwest of Oslo, was taken in 2021, before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, when Kongsberg saw increased demand for its missiles.
Some of that demand came from the U.S. Navy, selecting Kongsberg’s Naval Strike Missile (NSM) for its fleet, an anti-ship missile with a range of 250 km.
“Then Ukraine started, and it wasn’t a surprise to us that the demand increased,” Eirik Lie, Kongsberg’s head of defence and aerospace, told Reuters after opening the plant, which will employ 1,200 people.
More akin to a giant tech lab than a military arsenal, the facility cost 640m crowns ($61m), with the Norwegian government putting up 200m crowns and the European Union 10m.
In one gleaming-white room straight out of a sci-fi movie, 24 robotic arms hanging from the ceiling will help build the NSM, and its cousin the Joint Strike Missile (JSM), a cruise missile for Lockheed Martin’s (LMT.N) F35 fighter jets.
The plant will produce “several hundreds of missiles per year”, Lie said, declining to give a specific number. Neither would he say how much production was expanding by, only that growth was “exponential”.
There is more to come. “We are looking to increase our production,” said Lie. “We are looking at the U.S. and Australia as alternatives.”
Kongsberg declines to say whether its NSM has been donated to Ukraine by some NATO allies, but Reuters reported in 2023 that the U.S. was working on giving some of its NSMs to Ukraine to help defeat Russia’s naval blockade in the Black Sea. (Source: Google/Reuters)
19 Jun 24. Thales Belgium, WB Electronics and AREX Signed an MoU to Develop a New Remote Weapon System Equipped With 70mm Rockets. Leveraging their respective competencies, the three entities will capitalize on their synergies and expertise to market together. The AREX ZMU 03/05 turret will be armed with Thales Belgium unguided and guided rockets.
AREX ZMU unmanned turrets are distinguished by their modular design. These systems, engineered and made in Poland, are capable of adapting to any weapon in calibers from 5.56 mm to 40 mm. The ZMU turrets are 20% lighter compared to other solutions.
The ZMU 03/05 modular design enables quick service and repair, as well as easy upgrades and modernization. All AREX remote controlled weapon stations are equipped with double optical sensor and gun stabilization.
Thanks to the integration of unguided and guided rocket systems, the new AREX ZMU 03/05 will address even more operational needs for land forces such as Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) and precision guided munition for Ground-to-Ground use at a lower cost.
The Precision Guided Munition FZ275 LGR has been developed by Thales Belgium to close the gap between guns, cannons, unguided rockets and high-end missiles, meeting the demands for an efficient C-AUS solution. The FZ275 LGR adds the precision for light armoured targets like buildings, aircraft on ground, light armoured vehicles, radar and command stations etc.
The system can also be used to counter drone threats with a simple and cost-efficient solution being able to address UAS at ranges up to 3 km and height up to 2.5 km, using the newly developed FZ123 warhead on existing unguided rocket motors and with most of the rocket launchers in Thales’ portfolio.
Additional future capabilities in land solutions and counter-drone solution can easily be implemented too on the solution developed by WB Electronics, Arex and Thales Belgium. (Source: ASD Network)
21 Jun 24. Romania looks set to acquire South Korea’s K9 self-propelled howitzer. South Korea defence prime Hanwha Aerospace looks set to sign a US$ 920m contract with Romania for K9 155mm self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) and associated vehicles in what would be the largest deal for the central eastern European country in recent years.
The proposed deal was revealed during a bilateral meeting between Romanian Defence Minister Angel Tilvar and his South Korean counterpart Shin Won-sik on 19 June, when Tilvar made known Bucharest’s intent to acquire the artillery system. The ministers also called for close cooperation with the international community to address the growing threat from Russia and North Korea.
The announcement follows a Romania-South Korea summit in April where leaders from both sides promised to boost defence industry cooperation. It was earlier reported that Romania plans to acquire over 50 K9 SPHs and about 36 support vehicles, with the first tranche of howitzers to be manufactured by Hanwha in South Korea and the remainder to be produced in Romania via transfer of production technology and technical knowhow.
Developed in 1998 by the state-owned Agency for Defense Development (ADD) and Hanwha, the K9 has been adopted by nine countries – Australia, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, India, Norway, Poland, and Turkey – since 2001.
The K9 is equipped with the 155mm/52-calibre gun designed to fire a range of standard and extended-range munitions. With its automatic fire control system, the howitzer can fire within 30 seconds from a stationary position and 60 seconds while on move, with a maximum rate of fire from six to eight rounds per minute.
The K9 is also becoming the most widely used artillery system on NATO’s eastern flank, having already entered service with Poland and Estonia. Romania will be the third central eastern European country to acquire the system, together with Norway and Finland.
(Source: AMR)
20 Jun 24. MKU Sets New Standards in Platform Protection with Kavro Platform Protection Solutions. MKU Limited, a global leader in advanced ballistic protection solutions, continues to set benchmarks in platform protection with its Kavro Platform Protection Solutions. With over four decades of experience, MKU has established itself as a trusted provider of ballistic protection solutions for a wide range of aircraft models, land vehicles and naval vessels.
The Kavro Platform Protection Solutions offered by MKU feature smart and modular ballistic protection solutions specifically designed to address unique challenges faced by rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, lightweight ballistic protection solutions for Land Vehicles, Land Platforms and Objects, and smart solutions for lightweight armouring for all types of small and large naval vessels. Certified as per Aerospace Standard AS 9100:2009 and with EN 9100 quality procedures, MKU offers end-to-end solutions from design, development, manufacturing and integration of light weight composite armour for platforms and vehicles.
Depending upon the threat perception, operating requirements & budget criteria, the ballistic protection solutions offered by MKU for vehicles, land platforms and objects can be integrated in multiple ways including, but not limited to, pre-engineered stand-alone armour, add-on armour, spall liners respectively.
The ballistic protection solutions for rotary and fixed-wing aircraft use precision-engineered composite armour panels, which are retrofitted onto the aircraft with patented aero grade attachment systems. Their smart design allows them to be integrated into the aircraft without modifying or requiring any structural changes to the aerodynamics of the platform. Keeping in mind the multi-role nature of rotary-winged platforms, the armour panels and kits can be easily removed in full, or in part and re-mounted onto the platform with minimum hassle.
Kavro platform solutions for all types of small and large naval vessels provide protection against threats from Small Arms, Handguns, and Rifles. MKU’s expert team is well equipped to handle all critical challenges of integrating ballistic protection solutions in critical areas and to the complex curves of a naval vessel. Ballistic protection solutions from Platform Protection can be integrated into the vessel during build-up or can be added later per customers’ requirements.
In the modern military and law enforcement landscape, women face the same threats and challenges as their male counterparts. However, standard body armour often falls short in offering the optimal protection and comfort required by female personnel due to anatomical differences. Ill-fitting armour can restrict movement, cause discomfort, and fail to provide adequate protection, putting female soldiers at higher risk.
The company’s range of ballistic vests, plate carriers, and high-performance lightweight soft and hard armour inserts for women are meticulously engineered to accommodate the female form. These solutions offer NIJ Level IIA to NIJ Level IV protection, ensuring that every woman in uniform can perform her duties with confidence and safety. Central to their female body armour is the Radial Design Technique, a pioneering approach that creates protective gear contoured to the unique anatomy of female soldiers. This ensures a snug fit that enhances both mobility and comfort.
Women in uniform can benefit from MKU’s range of female body armours in many ways:
Ergonomic Fit: Designed to fit the unique contours of a woman’s body, providing better weight distribution and minimizing discomfort during prolonged use.
Enhanced Mobility: The tailored fit allows for a greater range of motion, essential for dynamic and unpredictable tactical operations.
Breathable Materials: Smart materials ensure durability and breathability, even in harsh conditions.
Lightweight and Flexible: Reduces fatigue and allows for agile movements without compromising protection.
20 Jun 24. Is the British Army set to acquire 200 RCH 155 artillery systems?
A buy of around 200 RCH 155 would be in the same region as the number of AS90s acquired in the 1990s, although the Future Soldier restructure leaves exact numbers difficult to determine.
Showcasing its range of artillery and armour systems at the Eurosatory defence industry exhibition, Franco-German prime KNDS has revealed key information into the potential number of RCH 155 artillery platforms the British Army will acquire, stating a joint UK-German procurement of up to 400 units.
Detailing the intention to acquire the RCH 155 platform, which was announced at the end of April, senior UK Government officials said in mid-May 2024 that the joint UK-Germany programme was “potentially worth upwards of £3bn” and marked “a step change towards a deeper industrial and wider defence relationship between the UK and Germany”.
The decision to select the RCH 155 for the British Army’s Mobile Fires Platform programme was something of a surprise, given the relative levels of development between it and the likely competition with the tracked South Korea K9 Thunder or wheeled Swedish Archer self-propelled howitzer (SPH).
In an 18 June 2024 release, KNDS revealed the scope of the joint UK-German RCH 155 programme, while also detailing the number of RCH 155 SPHs that are on order for Ukraine.
“Currently, Ukrainian Army have signed 54 RCH 155 with KNDS. UK and Germany have recently agreed to co-develop the RCH 155 with KNDS with a potential of 400 artillery systems,” the company stated.
Will UK RCH 155 cost more or less than Ukraine’s?
The latest number of 54 units is three times that original order placed by Ukraine in 2022, when it requested the supply of 18 units of RCH 155 in a deal worth approximately €216m ($226.6m) at the time. The systems are expected to be delivered to the armed forces of Ukraine in 2025.
Broken down, the Ukrainian order equates to a cost of €12m per unit.
With the joint UK-German programme potentially worth up to £3bn (€3.55bn/$3.8bn) according to the UK Government, a 50/50 split of the 400-unit potential would mean a UK buy of 200 RCH 155 SPH at an average of just under €8.9m each.
Using the €12m metric from the Ukrainian deal, a joint UK-German programme worth up to £3bn would enable 295 RCH 155 system to be acquired, split between the respective militaries.
However, a 400-unit programme potential for the UK and Germany, as stated by KNDS, at a Ukraine unit cost, would come to €4.8bn, or £4.6bn in total.
When will RCH 155 begin to arrive with the British Army?
It is unknown exactly when the RCH 155 will begin to enter service with the British Army, with a broad timeframe committing to provide a “minimum deployable capability… within this decade”, according to the UK Government.
The assessment phase of the programme would “determine the best and most appropriate manufacturing approach” as well as “confirm the number of platforms required by the British Army,” Cartlidge said on 13 May.
Previous analysis of the potential future structure of the British Army indicates nine artillery regiments in service, broken down into 2 x Deep Fires (M270), 3 x light close support (L118 105mm/replacement), 2 x close support artillery (possibly RCH 155 and/or Archer), and 2 x armoured close support (AS90 replacement, the RCH 155).
This structure as outlined under Future Soldier was created prior to the selection of the RCH 155, with the British Army appearing to lose its armoured close support, potentially providing for 4 x close support artillery in any new structure.
The acquisition comes as the UK current artillery capability is being worn down by the continued granting in kind of its AS90 155mm SPHs to Ukraine, with an April announcement revealing the provision of 50 platforms so far.
UK SPH capability at all-time low
The UK has seen a dramatic fall in SPH numbers, with the British Army receiving 179 AS90 platforms from 1992-1995. However, systems have been steadily withdrawn with 134 units in service in 2008, reducing to 117 by 2015, according to UK figures.
Following the granting in kind of the new batch of a potential 18 AS90s to Ukraine, the British Army could be left with around 30 platforms in service.
An interim purchase of 14 Archer 155mm truck-based artillery pieces was confirmed in 2023, with the systems having recently undergone testing firing before entry into the British Army.
(Source: army-technology.com)
20 Jun 24. Royal Navy call for Long Range ASW weapon for its surface combatants.
The request for information is for the latest conception that will augment the weapons capabilities on future Type 26 and 31 frigates.
The UK Royal Navy is seeking information regarding a new Long Range Anti-Submarine Warfare (LRAW) weapon concept for its surface combatants.
In a request for information (RFI) extended to industry on 13 June 2024, the service stipulated that such a weapon must be capable of launching from a Mark 41 (Mk41) vertical launch system (VLS).
According to the Mk41 supplier and US defence prime Lockheed Martin, the Mk41 is the only launching system that can simultaneously communicate with weapon control systems and missiles of every warfighting mission area: anti-aircraft, anti-surface, anti-submarine, ballistic missile defence and land attack. The system can accept any missile into any cell.
The LRAW effector solution will be a “missile/rocket delivered system.” Although, the Navy added that it will examine uncrewed systems as potential future anti-submarine warfare enablers.
LRAW will provide an extended range for lightweight torpedo or very light weight torpedoes against submarine contacts identified by organic or third-party sensor detection. Engagement ranges are to comfortably overmatch those of current and forecast threat heavy weight torpedoes.See
In line with the Ministry of Defence’s new Integrated Procurement Model – through which the government will buy off-the-shelf, ensuring the exportability of new systems – the Navy has determined a total stockpile requirement of 500 missiles as a costing assumption.
This early industry engagement comes off the back of another RFI released a few days earlier to explore capabilities for a new Surface Ship Torpedo Defence unit that will replace the existing Sea Sentor system.
Fitting the Mk41 VLS to Type 26 and 31 Navy ships
Currently the Royal Navy do not operate any Mk41 launcher systems on any of their warships.
Its Type-45 Daring-class destroyers use the Sylver VLS for its Sea Viper missiles, which it recently deployed against Iranian-backed Houthi strikes in the Red Sea under the auspices of Operation Prosperity Garden, an international task force committed to protecting maritime trade from the Yemeni militants.
The Type-23 frigate fleet employ VLS Seawolf, GWS 26 Mod 1, designed to accommodate eight Harpoon surface-to-surface missiles in two four-cell launchers.
However, the service is thinking ahead with the new LRAW concept as they aim to integrate Mk41 onto its future Type 26 and Type 31 frigates expected to enter service between 2025-2028.
In February 2024, it was announced that Mk41 would be fitted to Type 31s in the form of capability insertion periods carried out after the units are delivered to the Royal Navy. This decision will ensure that the ongoing construction the vessels will not be disrupted allowing their timely induction into the fleet. (Source: naval-technology.com)
21 Jun 24. LIFT, the Detroit-based Department of Defense national advanced materials manufacturing innovation institute, announced it has launched a project to explore the potential for a new Hypersonic and Extreme Environment Test (HEET) facility at or near Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan.
Supported by members of the Michigan Congressional Delegation, and led by Sens. Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow, LIFT launched this initial exploratory phase of the program with $1.5 m in funding through the Department of Defense FY23 budget, which was matched by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) through the organization’s efforts to leverage federal funding for strategic industries, including defense & aerospace, as part of its Make It In Michigan approach to economic development.
Operating at speeds of Mach 5 or higher, hypersonics and counter-hypersonic vehicles are among the Department of Defense’s top priorities, and understanding the materials required to survive these speeds is critical to further developing those vehicles and maximizing their effectiveness. Vital to this research is the ability to test such materials under extreme conditions; thus, the need for a new test facility, ideally, located in near proximity to LIFT’s Corktown applied research and development headquarters.
In a report accompanying the FY23 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the Senate Armed Services Committee noted it “believes that further investment in hypersonic test infrastructure is vital to the rapid fielding of emerging hypersonic weapons technologies.”
“We are working closely with our partners and proponents in Washington – including Senators Peters and Stabenow and Representatives James, Stevens and Slotkin – as well as the State of Michigan and Macomb County partners to deliver such a testing facility at Selfridge Air National Base – fewer than 30 miles away from our base of operations,” said Nigel Francis, CEO and Executive Director, LIFT. “It is a tremendous opportunity for the region, to become an epicenter for advanced materials development, further cementing advanced manufacturing in the state and to help close critical testing gaps our nation desperately needs.”
With the proper funding, support and research feasibility, the possibility of a materials testing facility in Macomb County in or around Selfridge could become a reality in the next few years. LIFT is expected to continue the program with additional funding included in the recently passed FY24 Department of Defense budget.
“Hypersonics will play an increasingly vital role in U.S. national defense in the coming years, but more testing is needed to refine this groundbreaking technology,” said U.S. Senator Gary Peters, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Senate Appropriations Committees. “I was proud to secure the federal funds needed to get this project underway, particularly given Selfridge is already home to numerous advanced capabilities and national security components. LIFT is an invaluable asset to Michigan’s defense manufacturing sector and I’ll keep doing everything I can to support their great work.”
“With more than 4,000 Michigan businesses currently serving the defense and aerospace industry, Team Michigan is committed to growing the ecosystem that ensures we can Make It In Michigan, while strengthening national security,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “We are grateful to Michigan’s U.S. Senators and Congressional delegation for supporting this project at LIFT that brings together our expertise in R&D and advanced manufacturing and continues to position Michigan as the nation’s arsenal of innovation.”
“Macomb County continues to stand at the frontline of advanced manufacturing and innovation,” said Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel. “With our strategic partnerships at the Federal, state and local levels, the potential for a Hypersonic and Extreme Environment Test facility at Selfridge Air National Guard Base reinforces our commitment to national security and economic advancement.”
This initial program is at Phase 0, which means more specifically, it is encompassing:
- Identifying key ecosystem and stakeholders;
- Testing capability gap analysis and requirements itemization;
- Defining differentiating capabilities, specifications, and testing standards;
- Defining data and database management, cybersecurity, and access strategies;
- Infrastructure and site location selection, including support for classified activities;
- Establishing a technology scale-up plan and transition strategy;
- Establishing talent and workforce development plans;
- Developing roadmaps looking out 3, 7, and 10 years, and;
- Developing timed plan for HEET Phase 1(from the FY24 budget).
“Understanding materials characteristics is at the core of everything we do at LIFT as we look to manufacture the components of the future for our national defense, particularly those which need to travel in excess of 4,000 miles per hour,” added Francis. “We are proud to be leading the effort in developing the materials and processes which will lead to transformational change in U.S. manufacturing, enabling us to leap ahead of our global competitors. We want to accomplish this here in Michigan.”
19 Jun 24. VINCORION Supplies Innovative GTD chaser Weapon Stabilization System. The stabilization technology GTD chaserv ensures that the gun in modern armored vehicles such as the LEOPARD 2 and the Puma always remains precisely aligned with the target, even at high speeds and when moving over rough terrain. The product’s modular design supports innovative system architectures such as the Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 presented at the trade show.
“With GTD chaserv, the gunner can precisely engage their targets, even under the most difficult conditions – maximizing the probability of a first hit,” said Sascha Brüning, Vice President Business Development and Sales at VINCORION, at the presentation of the system at the trade show in Paris.
Preconfigured Modules for a Wide Range of Applications
The GTD chaserv system is based on preconfigured and prequalified components and modules and offers a number of advantages, such as its ability to be adapted to the needs of the user and the configuration of the vehicle. The core components and modules are fully ready for large-scale production – enabling them to be adapted to new vehicles extremely quickly, such as the latest generation of the LEOPARD 2. Those who opt for the system benefit from a future-proof architecture that can be upgraded quickly and cost-effectively at any time. Furthermore, data-based maintenance and optimized obsolescence management also reduce life cycle costs.
“With the GTD chaserv electronics and the corresponding innovative drive systems, it is possible to build unmanned turrets for main battle tanks that are extremely powerful, offer enormous safety benefits for the crew, and can fire three shots in just ten seconds thanks to the additional integration of an autoloader,” said Brüning, explaining the possibilities offered by GTD chaserv.
Drive System, Stabilization, and Power Electronics
“At VINCORION, we manufacture numerous important components for the LEOPARD 2: the turret and gun drives, the gun’s aiming and stabilization system, and the power electronics,” said Brüning. The generator for the nk’s approximately 1500 hp diesel engine also comes from the company.
VINCORION has acquired important contracts as part of the latest orders for main battle tanks – for example, 54 LEOPARD 2 A8 tanks will be delivered to NATO partner Norway. This will be the first time that chaserv stabilization technology is used in large-scale production. Further deliveries for Germany and partner countries are already confirmed in the order pipeline, translating to more than 120 system deliveries over the next three years, accompanied by numerous other
19 Jun 24. British Army’s Boxer MIV completes live fire trials.
More than 600 Boxer MIVs will be acquired for the British Army, providing a key element of its force modernisation plans.
The British Army’s Boxer mechanised infantry vehicle (MIV) has followed the lead of its Challenger 3 main battle tank (MBT) cousin in completing key initial firing trials, as focus on the MBT programme turns towards platform deliveries, according to social media posts by the British Army and RBSL respectively.
The announcements represent key milestones for the programmes, which form two of the three main land vehicle armour and mobility efforts – along with the Ajax armoured fighting vehicle – currently being undertaken to recapitalise a British Army struggling with encroaching obsolescence.
In a 19 June 2024 social media post, the British Army revealed that the Boxer MIV had completed living firing trials at the service’s Lulworth Ranges.
The firings represent the first time that British Army soldiers have operated the remote weapon station (RWS) on a UK Boxer platform, firing the general-purpose machine gun, heavy machine gun, as well as the grenade machine gun.
“The accuracy of the fully digital and stabilised RWS has been demonstrated when firing static, at night and on the move,” the British Army post stated.
Meanwhile, posting on social media on 18 June, Rheinmetall and BAE Systems joint venture RBSL revealed that initial firing trials for the Challenger 3 programme had been completed, with the company now progressing the delivery of the 148 vehicles to the British Army at its Telford site. (Source: army-technology.com)
19 Jun 24. KNDS makes record-breaking progress on loitering ammunition.
In partnership with Delair, a UAV manufacturer, KNDS has developed an innovative warhead for a loitering ammunition capable of observing, identifying and neutralizing a static or dynamic threat within a radius of 5km, with a range of 45 minutes. A demonstrator of its innovative warhead has been made in less than two years. The first demonstrator will carry out test flights with this warhead at the end of June 2024, in cooperation with the French defense procurement agency (DGA).
LARINAE, the anti-armored loitering ammunition, takes off
With a range of 3 hours, between 80 and 120km, this loitering ammunition will carry a 3kg explosively-formed penetrator charge capable of dealing with armoured targets while foiling their active protection systems. In partnership with EOS Technologie and TRAAK, the first demonstrations with an inert charge will take place in early 2025.
This system which could be reusable will also enable it to carry out intelligence missions using an electro-optical system which is able to detect a vehicle at 15 km by day and 3 km by night. It will have navigation capabilities in a contested environment (jamming) thanks to its secured radio link at up to 80km provided by KNDS France Robotics. LARINAE is proposed with two different platforms: a vertical take-off and landing system (VTOL) and a high-speed UAV (VELOCE). Both are equipped with a high-performance solution for arming and disarmin the warhead, allowing the operator to recover them easily and safely.
KNDS, a credible partner with loitering ammunition know-how
The AID has entrusted KNDS with the rapid development of a loitering ammunition, not only to make up for France’s lag in this area, but also to ensure that it is “one war ahead”, in the words of the French forces Chief of Staff.
KNDS develops, integrates and produces loitering ammunition systems in order to meet current threats with innovative warheads for various targets; various navigation and attack modes integrating GNSS denied environments; safe, secured and ergonomic systems for operators.
(Source: Defense Arabia)
15 Jun 24. Rheinmetall Unveils Next-Gen Tank Turret at Eurosatory 2024.
At Eurosatory 2024, Rheinmetall introduced the Concept Uncrewed Turret (CUT), a demonstrator showcasing an unmanned turret design for the next generation of main battle tanks (MBTs).
Firepower and Ammunition
The CUT boasts Rheinmetall’s powerful 130mm Future Gun System with a 51 caliber barrel length. Ammunition is fed automatically from two rear-mounted magazines via a bustle-mounted autoloader, with a total capacity of 25 rounds. A co-axial .50 caliber heavy machine gun provides additional firepower.
Remote Weapon Station and Advanced Optics
The commander’s position features a Rheinmetall RMG762 machine gun integrated into a Main Sensor Slaved Armament (MSSA) remote weapon station. This unique machine gun has three rotating barrels, ensuring continuous fire even when one barrel overheats. The RMG762’s high rate of fire allows it to effectively engage small drones (UAVs). The MSSA also includes an integrated smoke grenade launcher for additional battlefield versatility.
Both the commander and gunner, situated within the chassis for improved protection, have independent day/night vision sights with integrated laser rangefinders. The gunner utilizes the advanced SEOSS 400 optics, which is also integrated into the commander’s MSSA. This independent targeting capability allows for “hunter-killer” and “killer-killer” tactics, where one crew member identifies targets while the other engages them. Additionally, small onboard reconnaissance drones can further enhance situational awareness.
Advanced Systems and Protection
The electrically powered turret integrates the fire control system, C4I equipment components, and various sensor systems, including a meteorological sensor. The SAS (Situational Awareness System) provides superior battlefield awareness for the crew. Protection against enemy threats comes from both hard-kill and soft-kill systems. Rheinmetall’s Active Protection System (APS) or Iron Fist (as showcased at Eurosatory) offer hard-kill defense, while MUSS and the ROSY rapid obscurant system provide soft-kill countermeasures. The uncrewed turret remains accessible for maintenance through a top-mounted hatch.
Rheinmetall’s Leadership in Future Tank Technology
With the CUT concept demonstrator, Rheinmetall solidifies its position at the forefront of developing innovative and future-proof solutions for the networked battlefields of tomorrow. (Source: Defense Arabia)
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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.
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