Sponsored by Galvion
www.galvion.com
—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–
02 Oct 24. Kalyani Strategic Systems and AM General & Mandus Partner to Co-develop and Co-produce Next-Gen Artillery Platforms with Advanced Recoil Technology for Global Markets.
- Next Generation Artillery Gun Platforms with Advanced Recoil Technology are on the Horizon for global markets.
Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd, a 100% subsidiary of Bharat Forge Ltd, India, plans to enter into a multi-party agreement with leading United States defense companies, AM General and Mandus Group LLC, to explore the co-development and co-production of next-generation artillery gun platforms.
As the battlefield changes with near peer adversaries, there is increasing demand for modern light artillery systems with enhanced firepower, precision strike, tactical mobility, and command & control capabilities. This collaboration is targeted to address the requirement of modern armies of the world in an evolving combat scenario equipping them with compact, robust, light weight, ruggedized, mobile, all-weather, all-terrain 105mm and 155mm next generation artillery gun platforms.
These next-gen artillery platforms will feature disruptive technology, responsive and survivable fires, transportability, added lethality, and will optimize crew size due to less logistics requirements. The 105-mm and 155-mm howitzer to be offered will deliver firepower and mobility while remaining lightweight and modular.
Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Government of India’s Make in India program, Baba Kalyani expressed that, “Bharat Forge is rapidly emerging as a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced artillery platforms for the world markets. This strategic collaboration aims to co-develop and co-produce the most versatile and innovative weapon systems.”
“AM General and Mandus Group are looking forward to exploring this collaboration with Kalyani and Bharat Forge to ultimately deliver advanced mobile artillery capabilities,” said John Chadbourne, AM General EVP for Business Development. “A partnership like this is a testament to our company’s commitment to be responsive and dynamic as the battlefield evolves.” (Source: ASD Network)
03 Oct 24. BPT showcases new armour innovations. With the tagline of ‘The bullet stops here’, Krugersdorp-based Bullet Proofing Technology (BPT) has supplied more than 1.3 m body armour plates and over 2 000 armoured vehicle kits to customers around the world. At the recent Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 exhibition it showcased a range of new products, including neutral buoyance armour, ultralight body armour plates, and 3D moulded armoured shields, amongst others.
BPT was established in South Africa in 1997 as a developer and manufacturer of bullet resistant and armour protection materials and systems. Since then, BPT has become South Africa’s foremost manufacturer and supplier of advanced armour protection materials and products, said Deon du Plessis, Managing Director of Bullet Proofing Technology.
The company’s main focus is on body armour plates and military vehicle armour. BPT completes 300-500 vehicle armour sets a year, and 70-150 000 body armour panels annually. The other 5% of BPT’s turnover comes from specials, including bullet traps, shields, aircraft, ship and building armour. Materials used include ceramics, Aramid fibre, armour steel, special polymers and UHMWPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) fibres.
“BPT has its own production facilities in South Africa and by using technology established in South Africa since 1976, BPT has the ability to develop and produce unique products and materials based on the threats encountered in Africa and other world regions,” Leon van der Westhuizen, BPT’s technical Director, said. The company is fully BBBEE compliant with more than 51% Black Ownership and more than 90% of all materials used are manufactured in South Africa.
BPT’s products are in use all over the world and in varying environmental conditions, from subzero temperatures in Sweden to Middle Eastern countries where temperatures can soar beyond 40 degrees Celsius. Du Plessis emphasised that BPT’s products have proven themselves in hugely different environments, and its quality control system is certified to ISO 9001:2015 requirements.
BPT brought a range of new products to the 2024 edition of the Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition, and these include:
Lightweight neutral buoyancy armour: By investing in ultra-high pressure heated platten presses, BPT has established a local manufacturing capability in ultra-low weight armour protection panels using UHMWPE materials developed in Europe and the USA. The UHMWPE plates are so light that they have neutral buoyancy and can actually float on water, thus having only a small effect on the weight and centre of rotation of any watercraft, aircraft or vehicle. This product is also extensively used in armouring luxury civilian vehicles.
“Ultralight” body armour plates: Technology has made huge leaps forward in armour development, and BPT notes the weight of body armour plates has been dropping, going from over 3 kg in 1990 to less than 1 kg now for a locally produced Level III body armour plate. At a weight of less than 1 kg for a 250 x 300 mm multi-curve plate, BPT says its “Ultralight” plates are so light and comfortable that they can be worn for extended periods. The plates exceed the requirements of NIJ 0101 Level III, by also providing protection against the threats encountered in Southern Africa, being the 5.56×45 Ball (R4) and 7.62×39 Ball (Mild Steel Core) (AK-47) threats. There are ICW (In Conjunction With) and Stand-Alone versions of the “Ultralight” plates available, with only a .1kg weight difference between the two versions.
Shields: Shields are again becoming a serious consideration for special task teams. BPT has used its newly developed “Ultralight” UHMWPE material as basis for a new lightweight Level III Shield, which, with the addition of an add-on panel, can be further upgraded to Level IV protection (up to .30-06 armour piercing rounds).
“Vikashield” add-on vehicle armour: As vehicle development and qualification costs are extremely high, it makes a lot of sense for armoured vehicle manufacturers to develop a base vehicle with a specific armour material and thickness and to qualify this to the structural and blast requirements, BPT maintains. By adding add-on materials, such as BPT’s Vikashield and other add-on armour systems, the protection level of the base vehicle can be increased to whatever is required. “As South Africa is now in the process of acquiring new lightweight border control vehicles, add-on armour such as the Vikashield system is now again a perfect solution which is available again, in a new refined system,” du Plessis said.
In addition to its new products, BPT is also highlighting the fact that it is accredited by the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) to certify ballistic testing on body armour (SANS 1658:2007 and STANAG 2920), vehicle armour (EN 1523) and military vehicle armour (STANAG 4569). This is a first for South Africa and BPT is currently the only South African company accredited to do any of this testing in their specially equipped ballistic testing facility, the company said. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
02 Oct 24. NIOA Group pushes ahead with expansion of 155mm shell production. Privately owned global munitions company NIOA Group has detailed ambitions to improve critical 155mm artillery shell production in Australia.
NIOA Group chief executive and deputy chairman of Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions (RNM) Rob Nioa detailed the expansion plan during a tour of the $90 m facility in Queensland.
RNM was commissioned in June 2022 and serial production for export to Rheinmetall in Germany began in December of the same year. The forge was originally constructed to produce approximately 30,000 DM121 projectiles per year for filling in Germany.
“The RNM facility utilises state-of-the-art technology to perform high tonnage forging of 155mm artillery shell cases,” Nioa said.
“It was designed with expansion in mind from the outset and is now capable of up to 41,000 projectile bodies per year.
“We have the flexibility to allow forging and metal parts manufacture of other munitions natures such as 81mm and 120mm mortar plus naval large calibre ammunition.”
RNM is currently forging and finishing approximately 3,000 155mm projectile bodies per month for export to Rheinmetall of Germany. The facility has a permanent staff of 106 and operates a 24-hour, three-shift production roster.
“NIOA has delivered and integrated the advanced Assegai 155mm munitions into the Australian Defence Force’s current artillery systems under the LAND 17-1 C.2 Future Artillery Ammunition program. The 155mm is now the most sought-after artillery calibre in the world,” Nioa said.
“Since the Ukraine-Russia war began, some published estimates put Ukraine’s usage at 8,000 rounds per day while NATO estimates Russia is firing up to 30,000 per day. Israel’s war on Hamas has added to the global supply pressure
“Western allies have quickly realised stockpiles were not high – and they were unprepared to support a sustained major land conflict.
“The US is ramping up production, spending bns on new and upgraded plants around the country with army officials stating a goal of 100,000 shells a month by 2025.
“Our German JV partner Rheinmetall recently received its largest order in company history record order for 155mm artillery ammunition | Rheinmetall valued at €8.5 bn to replenish German, Ukrainian and other allied stocks with deliveries to start in 2025.”
NIOA is contracted for current supply to the German Bundeswehr which has provided 241,000 rounds of 155mm ammunition military support for Ukraine.
During the recent joint statement on Australia-US Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN) 2024, defence ministers specifically highlighted Australia’s investment in the manufacture of 155mm M795 munitions, while in a joint ministerial announcement in April 2023, 155mm artillery ammunition was specifically called out as a priority.
“RNM has the capability to load, assemble and pack both training and high explosive variants of the Assegai projectile bodies at the Australian government-owned Benalla munitions facility in Victoria where NIOA has a long-term tenancy,” Nioa said.
“This would provide direct support to the sustainment of Defence’s Assegai fleet which comes into service for the Australian Defence Force in 2024 as well as giving Australia a true sovereign capability for complete round 155mm manufacture.
“With further investment in equipment, processes, and implementation of continuous operations, RNM has a surge capacity of 120,000–130,000 projectiles per year.
“In this time of global uncertainty, Australia can’t continue to rely on off-the-shelf purchases of critical munitions such as the 155mm round from allies and foreign-owned defence primes. To be a credible deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, Australia needs to be a robust contributor to the allied industrial effort.
“That means investing in munitions infrastructure such as we have here in Maryborough and a clear allocation of work so we can support the ADF in defending our nation.” (Source: Defence Connect)
02 Oct 24. Hanwha Aerospace to develop K9A3 unmanned artillery system. Hanwha Aerospace intends to develop an unmanned version of its K9A1 tracked self-propelled howitzers (SPHs).
This version of the K9A1 SPH, named K9A3, will have an extended firing range compared with the K9A1s in service with the Republic of Korea Army (RoKA), a Hanwha Aerospace official told Janes at the Korea Army International Defense Industry Exhibition (KADEX) 2024 held at Gyeryongdae from 2 to 6 October.
The official said a soldier will be able to remotely operate a K9A3, including manoeuvring and firing it, from a control vehicle. Each control vehicle will be able to control three K9A3s simultaneously, the official added.
The K9A3 will have a 58 calibre barrel and a firing range of more than 80 km, the official said. The K9A1s used by the RoKA are an upgraded version of the K9 Thunder SPH and require five crew members, including a driver, to operate.
According to Janes Land Warfare Platforms: Artillery & Air Defence, the K9A1 uses the same armament as the K9 Thunder but is fitted with improved mission system components including a Microsoft Windows-based operating system. An auxiliary power unit (APU) enables it to have enhanced operational range and performance.
Janes estimates that the RoKA and the RoK Marine Corps together have around 1,300 K9 family of SPHs in service.
Hanwha Aerospace is also developing the K9A2 SPH. The Hanwha Aerospace official said development of the K9A2 is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. (Source: Janes)
02 Oct 24. Denel fits T7 gun on its RG41 8×8. Denel’s big reveal at this year’s Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition was the mating of its RG41 eight-wheeled combat vehicle to a modified version of its G7 105 mm gun, which could provide excellent fire support for mechanised or motorised infantry.
Business Development Manager Isaac Karelse said the origin of the RG41 platform went back to the beginning of Project Hoefyster as Denel’s alternative to the Finnish Patria eight-wheeled platform, which became the South African Army’s Badger 8×8. He said that at the time, the Patria was one of the very few eight-wheeled infantry fighting vehicles available on the market.
“While the discussions were going on, the platform was designed, tested and then it went to the UAE for summer trials, in which it did exceptionally well. However, the requirements from the customer in the UAE changed and were replaced by another Denel vehicle, the RG35,” Karelse said.
As delays in the manufacture of the Patria/Badger system developed, Denel mooted the RG41 as a “drop-in” possibility for Project Hoefyster, for a possible range of vehicles alongside the Badger. Karelse explained that the RG41 became a “future requirement”. Also, the type was widely advertised for Middle Eastern markets but then Covid-19 hit, and this possibility was shelved for the time.
In the meantime, Denel was fitting remotely-operated turrets to the RG41, these being Denel’s Tactical Remote Turret (TRT), which was tested with both 20 mm and 30 mm cannon variants.
Karelse explained that during last year’s shooting trials (at Armscor’s Alkantpan test range) with the G6 155 mm self-propelled howitzer and the truck-mounted T5 system, they thought: “why should we not put a 105 mm gun onto this platform?” The 105 mm gun is basically the G7 105 mm LEO towed howitzer, but adapting it to a vehicle mount required technical changes, resulting in the Denel GT7 gun.
Next, Denel developed the T7/105 mm turret, which weighs 3 750 kg. Karelse said the turret was planned to eventually be an unmanned one, but currently– during testing and trials – is manned. The configuration shown at AAD 2024 has a vehicle commander, a driver, a gunner, and eight soldiers – seven “troops” and the section commander.
A standard infantry section is 10 men, but in a mechanised environment, this can be less due to the impact of the vehicle on the operational situation.
The RG41 has a V-shaped hull for landmine protection, with a hardened armoured “shell” for the crew; then a gap, then the “armour package” (100 mm to 130 mm) which can be augmented with add-on armour. In counterinsurgency deployments, wire mesh can be added, also with a gap, to protect the armour from Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and other projectiles.
Karelse stressed that crew survivability was key in the design, so even if the vehicle were to be destroyed, the crew would be saved. The logic behind this is that vehicles can be replaced, but soldiers cannot.
As the T7/G7 combination is still in the prototype phase, there is much work to be done, but the vehicle could act as a highly mobile self-propelled artillery system in a mechanised battalion setting, adding a much-needed punch to SANDF troops.
The G7 gun has a range of 30 km, with ammunition lethality exceeding standard 155 mm high explosive shells – the G7 basically provides 155 mm capability in a 105 mm package. Ammunition was developed by Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) and includes high explosive, high explosive pre-formed fragmentation, smoke, illuminating and other rounds. Standard projectile range is 24 km with boat tail and 30 km with base bleed. Direct fire range is from 500 to 2 000 metres.
The G7/RG41 system is equipped with an Inertial Navigation Unit (INU) which interfaces to the Gun Control Unit (GCU) that provides for automatic gun laying through hydraulic elevation/traverse drives for rapid target engagement. The ammunition handling system is a positive chain type rammer controlled from the integrated Loader Control Panel. This system enables fully automatic ramming of both the projectile and charge. Manual loading of the system provides for redundancy.
The RG41 has sufficient payload (11 000 kg) to accommodate the new turret, for a gross vehicle mass of 30 000 kg. Powered by a Deutz diesel engine, the RG41 can reach 100 km/h. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
01 Oct 24. IAI drums up interest in new Wind Demon missile. Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) displayed its new Wind Demon air-to-surface missile during the recently concluded Asian Defense and Security Exhibition (ADAS) in Manila, in an effort to increase Philippine and regional interest in the missile, a company executive said.
Unveiled in July 2024, the Wind Demon is an electro-optic (EO) cruise missile that can be launched from various aircraft including rotary-wing platforms, according to IAI.
Maxim Zemer, IAI’s senior vice-president of marketing for Asia and Africa, told Janes on 1 October that the presence of the missile and other IAI weapons and products on display at ADAS 2024 were part of a wider bid to strengthen exports to the Philippines and other Asian countries.
“When we considered our focus for the exhibition, we displayed products with regard to the Philippines but also aimed at other countries in Asia,” Zemer said.
According to an IAI press release, development of the Wind Demon was driven by a review that “highlighted the need for large quantities of effective ammunition and yet an affordable solution that can neutralise a wide range of targets using minimal resources at greater ranges”.
On its website, the company said that Wind Demon follows a predetermined mission plan to attack moving or stationary targets following launch, and strike targets at ranges exceeding 200km. (Source: Google/Janes)
01 Oct 24. Indian, Israeli companies set up firm to support MRSAM. India’s Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has formed a joint venture (JV) with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to sustain missile systems designed by the Israeli firm.
BEL said in a filing to the Bombay Stock Exchange on 27 September that the setting up of the new JV, named BEL IAI AeroSystems, was approved by India’s Ministry of Corporate Affairs earlier that same month.
BEL said the JV’s remit will be to provide repair and maintenance support for missiles deployed and operated in India. These missiles, it added, include the new Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM), an Indian version of IAI’s Barak-8 SAM.
In August BEL’s 2023–24 annual report said the company was close to finalising the JV with IAI. The annual report said the JV will provide support for weapons in India “for which the [IAI] is the main designer”.
In its filing BEL, which is headquartered in Bangalore, said it has a 40% holding of the JV comprising 164,000 shares. IAI owns the remainder. Total authorised share capital of the JV is INR82 m (USD980,000) and paid up share capital is INR41 m.
BEL and IAI jointly announced in February 2023 an intention to set up the JV. At the time, BEL said the JV would be established in New Delhi and would be positioned as a “single point of contact” delivering MRSAM support services to the Indian military.
BEL and IAI have also previously entered collaborative agreements centred on products in India including air-defence systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). (Source: Janes)
01 Oct 24. Business booming for ECM Technologies following Covid. ECM Technologies has bounced back from the Covid-19-induced slump and is busier than before the pandemic.
Eric Milburn, Managing Director of ECM Technologies, said the last year has been exceptionally good for the company, especially after the lean years of the pandemic, with activity picking up to pre-Covid levels. “We are very happy with the recovery,” he said, with strong movement on the electro-optical (EO), explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), mobility, and CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) fronts.
ECM Technologies previously supplied a substantial amount of bomb disposal equipment to the police ahead of the 2010 Soccer World Cup, and as much of that is now obsolete, there have been a lot of new procurements in the last couple of years. Much of the company’s bomb disposal/EOD range was on display at the recent Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 exhibition, with its robot range standing out along with bomb suits, portable X-ray systems and modular Bombtec equipment kits.
The robots (unmanned ground vehicles – UGVs) on display come from the ICP NewTech range, and are designed for tasks such as EOD, mine clearance, bomb disposal, firefighting etc. ECM Technologies has previously supplied robots to the South African Police Service and SA National Defence Force. Milburn sees firefighting robots (such as ICP NewTech’s Avenger Fire) as becoming increasingly popular globally.
Also notable on the EOD side of the business is a portable X-ray scanner from Scanna that can be fitted to a robot and driven remotely to, for example, a suspicious bag to identify what’s inside. The same robot can then neutralise the threat by detonation or firing a relevant projectile at it. This avoids the need to move the suspicious package.
The optics/electro-optics side of business has been nice and steady, Milburn explained, as local original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have been busy. “If our customers are doing well then we do well. We have been successful in that market because our customers are being successful. A lot of that has been driven by the situation in the Middle East and global instability.”
At AAD 2024, ECM Technologies exhibited sensors for missile guidance systems and laser range finders, a novel helmet-worn system that fuses night vision and thermal imaging into one device, Trijicon weapon sights (ECM has been the exclusive South African distributor for Trijicon for more than 30 years), different night vision tubes, armoured vehicle periscopes and vision systems from GuS Periscopes, and SureFire weapon-mounted flashlights, lasers and infrared lasers.
As the agent for Photron high-speed cameras, ECM Technologies has supplied these to the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Alkantpan, and Denel Overberg Test Range for weapons and other testing. Another electro-optical capability being showcased at AAD was an optical height of burst weapons sensor, which is replacing radio frequency systems as optical systems cannot be jammed.
The ECM Technologies stand was divided into sections, including EOD/bomb disposal, optics/electro-optics, CBRN, and mobility. Regarding the latter, the company is the military distributor of Pirelli Tyres in South Africa as well as partner to runflat specialist RunFlat International. Many local OEMs use Pirelli tyres, such as OTT and DCD, as well as RunFlat systems, and this “is becoming quite a nice business for us,” Milburn said.
The final main component of ECM’s showcase was its CBRN offerings, including respirators, suits, protective gloves, decontamination products etc. A new addition to the lineup is a novel Smiths Detection portable lightweight chemical detector that not only detects gases but can sample non-volatile compounds to identify narcotics, explosives, and toxic chemicals. Milburn sees the CBRN pipeline looking robust as interest increases for these products.
ECM Technologies started in 1985 as a one-man business specialising in optical products. The company has grown over the last 39 years to become a leading supplier in the defence and law-enforcement markets. Although local defence and security budgets are tight, ECM Technologies is tendering for multiple contracts for Border Management Authority equipment, and supports the many local OEMs that rely on export business.
(Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
01 Oct 24. Hanwha Aerospace and its defense subsidiaries are set to unveil their cutting-edge Multi-Layer Defense Solution during the Korea Army International Defense Industry Exhibition 2024 (KADEX) to be held at the Gyeryongdae ROK military compound, South Chungcheong Province.
Team Hanwha will showcase its collective expertise with a focus on the debut of Hanwha Systems’ Multi-Function Radar (MFR) and long-range missile interception systems, developed in collaboration with Hanwha Aerospace. The MFR detects missile threats at various altitudes, while artillery interception radar systems further enhance defense capabilities.
In the “Anti-Drone Zone” visitors will experience Hanwha Aerospace’s laser air defense weapon and rail launcher system, both designed to neutralize drone threats below 10 kilometers. The Multi-Layer Defense Solution deploys defensive measures in multiple tiers to counter various air threats, including ballistic missiles and drones, addressing the growing global demand for advanced air defense technologies.
Another highlight is the ‘K9 Manned-Unmanned Teaming System’—a futuristic evolution of the renowned K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer. This advanced artillery system integrates unmanned and autonomous driving technologies, allowing for remote operation without a crew. Its firing range, extended to 80 kilometers, ensures enhanced battlefield performance and survivability.
Hanwha will also introduce a wheeled variant of the K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer, optimized for rapid deployment and air transport. This nimble, wheel-based version enhances operational flexibility and mobility in dynamic combat environments.
Additionally, Hanwha Aerospace will unveil the ‘Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher,’ a system designed for amphibious operations. This launcher, which can be mounted on landing or transport ships, provides powerful fire support with minimal manpower.
Visitors will also witness performance-enhanced versions of existing systems. The Arion-SMET unmanned vehicle has doubled its payload capacity through optimized design, and the Tigon-MCV armored vehicle now features the TAipers anti-tank missile, providing a potent upgrade to Hanwha’s established Tigon platform.
“Our goal is to continuously evolve our existing products while developing new, tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of our customers,” said Kim Dong-hyun, head of the Land Systems Business Group at Hanwha Aerospace.
Hanwha Systems will showcase its advanced tactical communication systems, including the ‘Tactical 5G System,’ capable of high-speed data transmission, and the ‘Low Earth Orbit Satellite Communication,’ which delivers ultra-high-speed, low-latency communication. The ‘MOSS (Modular Open Suite of Standards) Platform,’ an integrated command, control, and communication solution, will also be highlighted. Additionally, Hanwha will unveil its independently developed small SAR satellite, boasting 0.25m resolution, and two AESA radars designed for unmanned aircraft and multi-purpose surveillance.
Hanwha Ocean will present the KSS-III Batch-II submarine and the Ghost Commander unmanned command and control ship. The KSS-III Batch-II, a 3,000-ton class submarine, combines Hanwha Ocean’s Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system with Hanwha Aerospace’s lithium-ion batteries. The Ghost Commander is a cutting-edge vessel designed to operate a range of unmanned vehicles, from aerial drones to underwater craft, with minimal crew, advancing the future of naval warfare.
“In an era where unmanned systems are reshaping modern warfare, our multi-layered defense solution demonstrates Hanwha’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve,” said a Hanwha spokesperson.
As KADEX 2024 kicks off, Hanwha is poised to showcase its position at the forefront of defense technology innovation, offering solutions that are both cutting-edge and battle-ready for the challenges of tomorrow.
For more information about Hanwha’s advanced defense capabilities, visitors can explore the Hanwha stand B-651 at Gyeryongdae.
30 Sept 24. STM completes development of anti-tank warhead for Kargu loitering munition. Turkish company STM displayed a Kargu loitering munition fitted with a model of a new interchangeable anti-tank warhead at the Azerbaijan International Defence Exhibition (ADEX) held in Baku from 24 to 26 September.
An STM representative told Janes that the new warhead successfully completed testing in August, but was unable to provide details about its capabilities.
The Kargu was previously only available with a directional anti-personnel warhead that the company says weighs 1.4 kg and generates 840 pieces of fragmentation. It is an electrically powered quadcopter with a take-off weight of 7.6 kg with the standard day camera and 7.8 kg with a thermal camera.
STM announced on 30 September that it has also completed the integration of a radio frequency seeker warhead that enables the Kargu to detect and destroy radars and electronic warfare systems. (Source: Janes)
27 Sept 24. ADAS 2024: Hanwha unveils anti-ship missile for Chunmoo MRL. Hanwha Aerospace unveiled a new anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) for its K239 Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher (MRL) at the Asian Defenseand Security Exhibition (ADAS) 2024 in Manila, which concluded on 27 September.
The ASBM is in an early phase of development but will become the latest munition type capable of being launched from the K239, which is in service with the South Korean and Polish militaries. The K239 is already capable of firing a variety of 130 mm, 239 mm, and 600 mm munitions with product options including the CTM-080, CTM-MR, and CTM-290.
Speaking at ADAS 2024, a Hanwha Aerospace spokesperson told Janes the ASBM is in development but could be ready for deployment by 2027. The ASBM has been designed to support Philippine requirements, the spokesperson said, suggesting it could fulfil the Philippine Army’s need for a shore-based anti-ship strike capability.
The spokesperson also said the ASBM could be used by the Philippine Coast Guard for coastal defence purposes and promoted the K239’s ability to engage static and mobile targets as well as its capability to deploy within minutes.
Industry sources said any K239 procurement with the ASBM could fall within the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP’s) ‘Horizon 3′ modernisation phase, which is focused on an “archipelagic defense concept”, according to government documentation.
ASBM features include GPS, INS (inertial navigation system), and IIR (imaging infrared) guidance solutions. The munition, which has a maximum range of 160 km, is powered by a composite propellant and has a ‘hit rate’ of 80%, the spokesperson said.
However, the company was unable to elaborate on the ASBM’s specifications, particularly concerning payload capacity and warhead type. (Source: Janes)
26 Sept 24. Indra signs a framework contract to modernise the Spanish Army’s GBAD system to identify whether an air platform is a ‘Friend or Foe’. Indra has signed a framework agreement with the Spanish Ministry of Defence to endow the Spanish Army’s ground based air defence system, tasked with responding to any airborne threat, with state-of-the-art capabilities to identify whether an air platform is a friend or foe (IFF system), thus contributing to reinforcing the protection of the airspace, increasing the safety of allied aircraft and preventing friendly fire.
The project, awarded to Indra following an open bidding on the month of June with the industry’s main suppliers and recently signed, provides for the implementation of Mode 5/S IFF radar systems to facilitate enhanced positive identification of an air force’s own aircraft. The IFF is a secondary radar which sends an encrypted interrogation that only platforms aware of the codes can decrypt and respond to confirm that it is friendly.
Mode 5, deployed by NATO and its allies, has replaced the now obsolete mode 4 and is therefore vital for participation in joint missions. This mode is more difficult for the adversary to intercept, due to the form of the emitted signal and its encryption, which is performed by the cryptographic equipment integrated into the interrogator, whose codes are changed on a regular basis.
In addition to identifying whether the aircraft is a friend or enemy, the new mode 5 provides more information on the aircraft than traditional modes, enabling it not only to identify it accurately, but also to ascertain its position, identification number and callsign, among other data, through selective interrogations that avoid any unnecessary radio emissions and facilitate a stealthier and safer operation.
In the cases of high-mobility ground based air defence system and ones that require rapid deployment and redeployment capabilities, Indra will deliver a next-generation IFF model (I50D Interrogator) with a lightweight, compact design.
The company will integrate the new IFFs into the firing direction centres of the current light and medium-sized anti-aircraft artillery operations centres via their respective short and medium-range radars. It will also renew the intelligent terminals associated with the MISTRAL short-range missile launching positions while incorporating the new IFFs into the Skydor firing directions, the medium-range HAWK batteries and its operations centre.
IFF radar systems constitute one of the solutions forming part of the air defence ground system portfolio that Indra has identified as key to its business within the Leading the Future strategic plan. Indra has implemented these systems on all kinds of air, land and naval platforms for armies around the world. (Source: joint-forces.com)
27 Sept 24. UK to Build 20 Large One-Way Attack Drones per Month.
The UK Ministry of Defence has revealed plans for a new long-range strike weapon under the codename Project Brakestop, which aims to produce a minimum of 20 units per month.
According to a Prior Information Notice published on 25 September 2024, this one-way attack system will be capable of targeting enemy assets from over 500km away and operating in high-threat tactical environments.
The system, referred to in the notice as a One-Way Effector (OWE) Heavy, is designed to strike targets accurately while navigating through a GNSS-denied environment and withstanding electromagnetic warfare.
The concept behind the Brakestop project closely resembles Ukraine’s Palianytsia drone, an improvised wartime cruise missile. The project specifications clearly reflect combat-driven requirements, calling for the development of a cruise missile, ballistic missile, or drone capable of striking ground targets.
The Ministry of Defence has not confirmed whether this will be a missile, drone, or another form of delivery system, but the emphasis is placed on flexibility and adaptability.
“The User requires a cost-effective, long-range (500km) One Way Effector Heavy, capable of being safely ground launched from a mobile platform in a high-threat tactical environment,” states the notice.
According to the MoD’s outline, the system is expected to:
- Deliver a 200-300kg payload (similar to the Mk 82 bomb) over a 600km range
- Achieve speeds of around 600km/h
- Be launched safely from a mobile platform in a high-threat environment, with reduced detection probability
- Operate via either a ballistic trajectory or low-level cruise mode
- Navigate in a GNSS-denied environment with targeted end-stage guidance.
The MoD places a strong emphasis on the system’s ability to survive in complex environments. The OWE Heavy must operate under conditions that involve electromagnetic environments, all while remaining resistant to EW attacks and spoofing. This ensures its effectiveness in modern warfare scenarios where such measures are increasingly prevalent.
The Ministry of Defence has laid out requirements for the system to be scalable in its production, capable of delivering at least 20 units per month, with the potential for further expansion if needed. “Manufacturing shall be scalable to meet requirements at a minimum of 20 units-per-month, with the ability to further increase,” the MoD specifies.
This scalability focuses on delivering results quickly, with the MoD prioritising efficient production over intricate design details, in order to meet the growing need for rapid deployment.
While the exact nature of the delivery system is not confirmed, the project allows for flexibility. Whether a missile, drone, or another technology, the system must operate efficiently under a range of conditions. “This can be done via (ballistic or low-level cruise) and could use a missile a drone or another technology to deliver effect,” the notice explains.
This flexibility extends to the system’s ability to launch from mobile platforms, providing an adaptable response to the modern battlefield’s changing needs.
As part of the development process, the Ministry of Defence will hold an industry day on 9 October 2024 in London. This event is designed to allow industry participants to showcase their potential solutions to different aspects of the project, including propulsion systems, navigation, targeting, and launcher systems.
Project Brakestop is operating on an ambitious timeline, aiming for a demonstration firing by Q3 2025 and potential serial production from Q4 2025.
“There is an aggressive timeline of a demonstration firing in Q2 2025 and, subject to contract, potential serial production from Q3 2025, producing a minimum around 20 platforms per month.” (Source: UAS VISION/ukdj)
30 Sept 24. Major order from Denmark: Rheinmetall to supply Skyranger 30 for mobile air defence. Rheinmetall has once again won a major order in the field of mobile air defence. The Kingdom of Denmark has contracted with Rheinmetall Air Defence to supply sixteen Skyranger 30 air defence turrets and additional vehicle equipment for an 8×8 wheeled platform for use by the Danish armed forces. The order is worth a figure in the low three-digit m euro range. In addition, the customer has ordered ammunition in the low double-digit m euro range. Deliveries of the serial turrets are scheduled for 2027 and 2028, while a prototype is expected to be delivered in late 2026.
Lieutenant General Per Pugholm Olsen, head of the Danish procurement agency FMI, stated: “The signing of this contract is an important step toward establishing the brigade’s air defence, which is an essential part of making the brigade fully operational. The selection of the Skyranger turret and its machine cannon was made in close cooperation with our colleagues at the Defence Command.”
Oliver Duerr, CEO Rheinmetall Electronic Solutions: “We are grateful that Denmark, another major NATO customer, now trusts our Skyranger 30. We are pleased to be able to integrate Skyranger into another vehicle platform. This demonstrates the modularity and adaptability of our system.”
The Skyranger 30 offers an optimal combination of mobility, protection, flexibility and precision to meet the growing demands of challenging threat scenarios at close and very close range. As a hybrid solution, its turret combines the powerful 30mm x 173 KCE revolver cannon, surface-to-air guided missiles and the necessary sensors on a single platform. The well-thought-out design of the various weapons, high dynamics and a large elevation range, as well as state-of-the-art sensors, enable both autonomous and networked operations. The system’s airburst ammunition with a programmable airburst point of detonation is particularly suitable for countering drones.
The order that has now been placed once again underscores Rheinmetall’s role as a world market leader in cannon-based air defence. At the same time, it continues the success of the Skyranger 30. The Republic of Austria has placed an order for the procurement of 36 Skyranger 30 systems as the first customer. Other NATO and EU member states are also planning to procure the system or have already initiated the process.
In December 2023, Hungary commissioned Rheinmetall to carry out the conceptual development of the Skyranger 30 turret for the future anti-aircraft variant of the Lynx KF41 tracked vehicle. As recently as January 2024, Rheinmetall and a number of industrial partners were awarded a contract to develop the Close and Very Short Range Air Defence System (Nah- und Naechstbereichsschutzsystem, NNbS) for the Bundeswehr, in which the Skyranger 30 will be integrated as an important component in the future. In February 2024, the Bundeswehr placed a further order for the Skyranger 30 mobile air defence system. The prototype is to be delivered as early as the end of 2024, and 18 series-produced vehicles have also already been ordered.
30 Sept 24. War in Ukraine and Middle East reignites focus on Ground-Based Air Defence systems. The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East have thrust Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) systems back into the global spotlight. These defensive shields are proving crucial in countering the growing threat posed by drones, cruise missiles, and other airborne weapons. GBAD systems are systems that are designed to protect the ground forces and assets from aerial threats such as manned aircraft, drones, and missiles. The landscape of GBAD systems is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements, emerging threats, and geopolitical shifts. GBAD systems are increasingly being integrated into Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C2I) networks, enabling real-time data sharing, coordinated engagement, and improved situational awareness across different defence assets. Data from multiple sensors like radars, electro-optical trackers, and acoustic locators are being fused to provide a more comprehensive picture of the airspace and enhance target identification and tracking.
There is a growing demand for GBAD systems that can counter the emerging and diverse threats posed by drones, especially in urban and asymmetric warfare scenarios. Developments in rocket propulsion, guidance systems, and warheads are leading to more effective and versatile missiles for GBAD systems.
To understand the evolving landscape of GBAD technology and market trends, Amsterdam-based Market Forecast has released its latest in-depth study: “Ground Based Air Defence Systems – Market and Technology Forecast to 2032.” This comprehensive report offers a detailed examination of the Impact of Recent Conflicts, Missile Technology Evolution, Market Outlay Predictions, and a geographical market analysis. The US, with its substantial defence budget, prioritizes cutting-edge technologies and a comprehensive approach to air defence. In contrast, European nations emphasize interoperability, affordability, and collaboration through joint programs and standardized systems.
The GBAD market is poised for significant growth in the coming years. By understanding the evolving trends and capitalizing on the identified opportunities, companies can develop and deliver next-generation GBAD solutions that meet the increasingly complex air defence challenges of the future.
30 Sept 24. UK calls for new long-range effector under ‘Project Brakestop.’ The forthcoming industrial competition will provide the UK with a one-way effector to be launched from a mobile ground-based platform.
The photograph shows Wing Commander Dave Robertson, right, and Squadron Leader Andy Myers prior to their departure on a Tornado GR4 night mission over Iraq armed with the RAF’s stand-off precision-guided missile, Storm Shadow. While this is a long-range air-launched missile, the UK Ministry of Defence has now issued specifications for another future long-range capability for ground-based mobile platforms. Credit: Crown copyright/Corporal Craig Fryer RAF Combat Camera via MBDA.
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) issued a notice to industry on 25 September 2024 outlining specifications for a new long-range weapon system.
Known as Project Brakestop, the forthcoming industrial competition will provide the British Armed Forces with a one-way effector to be launched from a mobile ground-based platform.
The target cost per unit must be no higher than £400,000, excluding VAT and the launcher system. Subject to potential future contract, manufacturing shall be scalable to meet operational requirements at a minimum of 20 units per month, with the ability to scale up.
MoD requirements
The new effector is anticipated to reach a range greater than 500km. This exceeds the Anglo-French air-launched Storm Shadow cruise missile, which travels up to 250km; the American-made Harpoon anti-ship cruise missile, at 240km; and the local air defence CAMM missile, at 25km—all of which feature in the British arsenal.
The MoD request that the weapon be resilient in harsh physical environments, day and night. The effector must have a low multispectral signature, be resilient in a complex electromagnetic environment, including within a GNSS-denied and degraded environment, and be resistant against targeted electronic warfare attacks and spoofing.
Furthermore, the weapon will weigh between 200 and 300kg (class payload mark 82 for reference) and travel 600km per hour.
The concept can operate at any trajectory (ballistic or low-level cruise) and could use a missile, a drone, or another technology to deliver the effect, day or night, following a pre-programmed route.
If low level cruise, it must be able to navigate in a GNSS denied environment and have some form of end stage guidance as required, to an accuracy of CEP (0.5) of 30 metres.
Sovereignty is key
Learning from Ukraine, the British government emphasised that the design of its new effector must be free from external government trade and usage restrictions.
In the past month, Ukraine has repeatedly called on the US to approve the use of long-range weapons against targets inside Russia. It is important to eliminate such targets – acting as airbases and launching sites – as they enable invading Russian forces to wage a destructive campaign against Ukraine’s civil and military infrastructure.
Just yesterday (29 September), a Russian salvo “hit ordinary residential buildings, ordinary city facilities,” confirmed Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
American components power the weapon systems in Ukrainian hands, so their unrestricted use hinges on US approval. Nevertheless, this has not stopped other Western backers, such as Britain, France, and Italy, from offering their approval for the use of their long-range weapons inside Russia.
In response to this ongoing debate, the Ukrainian industry is said to have developed an indigenous long-range weapon system that meets several of the British requirements for Project Brakestop, including a range of up to 600km. This domestically produced missile-drone hybrid is known as the ‘Palianytsia’. In early September, Lithuania announced that it would invest €10m in Ukraine’s long-range weapon. (Source: army-technology.com)
25 Sept 24. Future opportunity 712835450 – Project Brakestop
- Ministry of Defence
F16: Prior information notice for contracts in the field of defence and security
Notice reference: 2024/S 000-030651
Published 25 September 2024, 4:11pm
Watch this notice
Contents
one. Contracting authority/entityI. Contracting authority/entityPress escape key to exit
two. Object of the contractII. Object of the contract
six. Complementary informationVI. Complementary information
Section one: Contracting authority/entitySection I: Contracting authority/entity
one.1) Name, addresses and contact point(s)I.1) Name, addresses and contact point(s)
Ministry of Defence
MOD Abbey Wood South, 1261, Spruce 2B
Bristol
BS34 8JH
For the attention of
DE&S
Email(s)
Country
United Kingdom
Further information
Further information can be obtained from the above mentioned contact point(s)
Section two: Object
Section II: Object
two.1) Title attributed to the contract by the contracting authority/entity:II.1) Title attributed to the contract by the contracting authority/entity:
712835450 – Project Brakestop
two.2) Type of contract and location of works, place of delivery or of performanceII.2) Type of contract and location of works, place of delivery or of performance
Services
Service category No 3: Defence services, military defence services and civil defence services
NUTS code
- UK – United Kingdom
two.4) Short description of nature and scope of works or nature and quantity or value of supplies or servicesII.4) Short description of nature and scope of works or nature and quantity or value of supplies or services
This Prior Information Notice serves to inform industry about the upcoming competition for Project Brakestop. Please see the single statement of user need (SSUN) below and further details around the project including an industry day.
SSUN:
“The User requires a cost-effective, long range (>500km) One Way Effector (OWE) Heavy, capable of being safely ground launched from a mobile platform in a high threat tactical environment, navigating to and accurately striking a user-programmed target.
It shall be: operable in harsh physical environments, day and night, of low multispectral signature, resilient in a complex Electromagnetic environment (EME), including within a GNSS denied & degraded environment, and resistant against targeted EW attack and spoofing.
Subject to potential future contract, manufacturing shall be scalable to meet operational requirements at a minimum of 20 units per month, with the ability to further increase.”
Overview:
UK MOD requires the ability to deliver an 200kg – 300kg class payload (Mk 82 for reference) over a target range of 600km at a speed of around 600km/h. This must be capable of being safely ground launched from a mobile platform in a high threat tactical environment, with reduced probability of detection / high survivability with minimal take-off distance. It should be mobile via vehicle, fitted to or towed by.
This can be done via any trajectory (ballistic or low-level cruise) and could use a missile, a drone, or another technology to deliver the effect, at day or night, following a pre-programmed route. If low level cruise, it must be able to navigate in a GNSS denied environment and have some form of end stage guidance as required, to an accuracy of CEP (0.5) of 30m.
The target cost per delivery platform must be no higher than £400,000 Ex VAT and excludes the launcher system and any GFX as listed below. This requirement is for technologies that can be packaged and demonstrated rapidly, including firing in a test range. The design should be free from external government trade and usage restrictions. The design must have the ability to be spirally developed, to improve performance characteristics.
Whilst a complete solution is being sought, if you are offering part of the solution, we encourage you to participate in the industry day and to explicitly state which part of the problem you are answering within the categories of:
- Propulsion system, e.g. engine,
- Airframe,
- Navigation and targeting,
- Ability to scale,
- Launcher system.
The project will be prioritising scalability over exquisite solutions.
The following will likely be government furnished (GFX):
- Payload
- Fuses
- Testing ranges/facilities
- Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) support for scaling
- DSTL advice
Procurement Approach and timelines:
FCI will down select from submitted proposals using the proven 3-2-1 procurement model and invite a number of companies to a face-to-face presentation where a further down selection will be made to a small number of companies (2-5) and, subject to contract, will provide up to £5m of funding for the rapid development of those proposals. Those companies will be required to rapidly demonstrate their systems.
The aim is to deliver this product at pace, which means there is an aggressive timeline of a demonstration firing in Q2 2025 and, subject to contract, potential serial production from Q3 2025, producing a minimum around 20 platforms per month.
Industry day information:
The Authority will be holding a Project Brakestop industry day on Tuesday 8th October 2024 in London UK.
Please use the following link for further detail and to submit a request form to attend the industry day:
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=7WB3vlNZS0iuldChbfoJ5XUTJJOnMC1Guv5Ej0GV_QpUOE9GWDdSMTFOT1hLVFJEQUhYMERTQVRENyQlQCN0PWcu
Please note that responses must be submitted by 15:00 (GMT+1) 2nd October 2024
Due to capacity limitations, this industry day is limited to 2 personnel from each company. In the event of the location’s capacity being exceeded, the Authority will reduce down to 1 person from each company.
two.5) Common procurement vocabulary (CPV)II.5) Common procurement vocabulary (CPV)
- 73410000 – Military research and technology
Additional CPV code(s)
- 35613100 – Unmanned combat aerial vehicles
- 35623100 – Air/ground/sea launched cruise missiles
two.7) Additional informationII.7) Additional information
Industry day information:
The Authority will be holding a Project Brakestop industry day on Tuesday 8th October 2024 in London UK.
Please use the following link for further detail and to submit a request form to attend the industry day:
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=7WB3vlNZS0iuldChbfoJ5XUTJJOnMC1Guv5Ej0GV_QpUOE9GWDdSMTFOT1hLVFJEQUhYMERTQVRENyQlQCN0PWcu
Please note that responses must be submitted by 15:00 (GMT+1) 2nd October 2024
Due to capacity limitations, this industry day is limited to 2 personnel from each company. In the event of the location’s capacity being exceeded, the Authority will reduce down to 1 personnel from each company.
Section six: Complementary information
Section VI: Complementary information
six.2) Additional informationVI.2) Additional information
Conditions regarding this PIN:
1) This PIN is not a call for competition and is not published to reduce time limits for the receipt of tenders;
2) The Authority reserves the right not to commence any procurement or award any contract in respect of this opportunity;
3) The information contained in this PIN may be subject to change due to the impact of governance, assurance, regulatory changes and/or the pre-market engagement outcomes. Insofar as is permitted by law, the Authority shall not be liable for any losses incurred by any party as a result of reliance on the information contained/linked herein;
4) Failure to register an interest in connection with this PIN shall not prevent an organisation from participating in any formal call for competition.
six.3) Information on general regulatory frameworkVI.3) Information on general regulatory framework
Relevant governmental Internet sites where information can be obtained
Tax legislation
DE&S
MOD Abbey Wood South, 1261, Spruce 2B
Bristol
BS34 8JH
Email(s)
Country
United Kingdom
(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
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.
———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-