Sponsored by Galvion
www.galvion.com
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O9 Oct 24. Galvion receives further US DoD orders for their MAX-8 Mission Adaptive Charging Station™ and Squad Power Manager™ (SPM.). Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of integrated power and data management solutions and innovative head protection systems, has announced the receipt of further orders from US DoD for their MAX-8 Mission Adaptive Charging Station™ and Squad Power Manager™ (SPM). Galvion’s Nerv Centr® power management solutions have been selected as a part of a System Modernization Program (SMP) for the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND) Dismounted Reconnaissance Sets, Kits, and Outfits (DRSKO) Program of Record. This announcement coincides with the AUSA event taking place in Washington DC, 14-16 October 2024, where Galvion is exhibiting at booth 733.
The customized power management solutions include the widely fielded Squad Power Manager™ (SPM) and Mission Adaptive Charging Station™ (MAX-8). Initial orders for 124 combined SPM and MAX-8 systems have been received to support the National Guard and Army DRSKO requirements following the successful completion of their user evaluation trials in late 2023. Deliveries of these systems will begin in late 2024. Additional orders are expected to support the specific CBRND DRSKO requirements of other United States Department of Defense (US DoD) branches of service (Air Force and Marines) when subsequent fiscal year funding is released, and service specific power management requirements are validated.
The Galvion Nerv Centr® SPM™ kit provides a lightweight and compact multifunctional system to enable the harvesting and management of energy from multiple sources. Using a customized selection of intelligent cables, the system provides the ability to scavenge, distribute, and manage power from multiple power sources (solar, AC, DC, military batteries, NATO plugs, and vehicle) and convert that power into a usable format for powering devices, peripheral equipment, and recharging batteries. Galvion’s Nerv Centr® MAX-8™ is a portable charging solution built to withstand the harsh conditions of expeditionary operations. With the ability to draw power from multiple sources, including AC, solar and vehicle, the MAX-8 battery adapters offer the ability to charge different types of batteries simultaneously, with no setting changes needed. The SPM and the MAX-8 feature intelligent functionality, including prioritization of needs, topping off the fullest battery first, automatic evaluation of power source and adjustment of charge rates to maximize power and minimize charge time.
Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion, said: “We’re very proud to be supplying CBRND warfighters with customized solutions that will improve the power management efficiency of their DRSKO kits. Our systems are deployed across multiple US units and organizations to enhance the overall capability that helps to protect the warfighter and the nation.” He added: “Our priority at Galvion is to deliver operational efficiencies and effectiveness for our users. These power management solutions simplify logistics by reducing battery burden and resupply requirements while ensuring that all mission-critical equipment is powered and ready to go in even the most austere environments. Faster charging means less burden while out in the field, allowing teams to do more with less, and that is what drives everything that we do here at Galvion.”
10 Oct 24. Hanwha Aerospace unveils unmanned MLRS concept.
South Korean defence prime Hanwha Aerospace took the opportunity at the inaugural Korea Army International Defense Industry Exhibition (KADEX) in the central city of Gyeryongdae in early October to unveil an uncrewed multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) concept.
In a social media post, Hanwha Aerospace highlighted that the Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher has a weight of just 17 tons, a significant decrease compared to conventional MLRS systems. For example, the company’s highly successful crewed K239 Chunmoo MLRS system has a weight of about 31 tons.
“This makes it deployable on amphibious assault ships and transport vessels, enhancing operational flexibility,” stated Hanwha Aerospace.
The company also asserted that the uncrewed operation offers improved survivability as personnel are not exposed in the launch area, which would be instantly targeted by counter-artillery fires once the rocket munitions have been launched.
To neutralise the deck motions of a moving naval vessel, Hanwha Aerospace integrated a proprietary system that compensates for ship movement.
“This ensures pinpoint accuracy even in rough seas, keeping rockets on target regardless of wave action,” said the company.
It is understood that the Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher will be equipped with a launcher that will be compatible with current and future munitions payload pods used by the Chunmoo,
Besides the Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher, Hanwha Aerospace is also developing new coastal defence capabilities for its Chunmoo MLRS system.
The company earlier announced that it will develop an Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile (ASBM) payload by 2027, which is aimed at providing a more affordable alternative to traditional cruise missiles.
Another possible munition could be the Korean Tactical Surface-to-Surface Missile (KTSSM), which was commissioned into service as the Thunder on the sidelines of KADEX 2024 on 4 October. The enhanced KTSSM-II munition with increased range and penetrative power over the current Thunder guided munition is also under development, with fielding expected by the early 2030s.
It is understood that both KTSSM/Thunder and the KTSSM-II munitions will constitute key pillars of South Korea’s comprehensive defence network, which will comprise the full spectrum of air defence, pre-emptive strike, and counterstrike capabilities. (Source: AMR)
14 Oct 24. Expansion, investment and technology innovation are the key focus at the AUSA Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. for Kongsberg Defense and Aerospace, Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace in Norway, as it continues to serve American customers and lead the world in next-gen, digital networked warfare.
Kongsberg’s technological innovation will be demonstrated live throughout AUSA with the company’s Integrated Combat Solutions (ICS) linking a target sharing network across multiple platforms in various partner booths on both levels of Washington Convention Center. ICS is a core enabler of modern warfare, providing all-domain visibility, command and control. This force multiplier streamlines complicated targeting cycles, networking mobility platforms and other assets for increased situational awareness and combat capability, achieved through lethality enhancements, C5I systems integration and inter-vehicle communication. The open and scalable software solution is platform agnostic, as demonstrated throughout the AUSA show floor.
Kongsberg’s ICS is also at the core of the Typhon C-UAS solution delivered to Ukraine earlier this year. The fielded system continues to see operational success in Ukraine with its ability to network multiple RWS and sensors using ICS to allow small units to conduct area C-UAS using readily available weapons and munitions to fire on a single drone for a highly successful and low-cost kinetic solution.
As global interest in counter-drone capabilities continue to escalate, Kongsberg will leverage the Typhon network to develop solutions for different C-UAS problem sets, to include a CROWS C-UAS Kit that could retrofit the thousands of Commonly Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS) already fielded to the U.S. Army on Abrams and Stryker and to support light infantry with existing weapons and munitions such as .50 caliber machine guns or 70mm rockets deployed as APKWS.
Kongsberg also produces the Remote Weapon System for the U.S. Marine Corps Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS), which integrates medium caliber cannons and missiles to provide short-range air defense. This critical system is under contract and moving into full-rate production. Kongsberg has long been the sole provider of remote weapon stations to the U.S. Army, and now the Marine Corps is standardizing on Kongsberg lethality solutions – both hardware and software – specifying Kongsberg remote turrets and weapon stations as well through its MADIS, ACV-P, ACV-30 and ARV programs.
The U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Combat Vehicle 30mm program (ACV-30) incorporates a medium caliber turret from Kongsberg. The system continues to undergo government testing. Production capacity will be augmented by a recently announced expansion in the company’s Pennsylvania facility.
Two Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) prototypes will also be on display in the BAE Systems booth. One is equipped with the same Kongsberg 30mm turret as the ACV-30, which could bring significant benefits to the Army and FMS partners in terms of capability, lethality and commonality in terms of training, networked combat CONOPS and sustainment. The AMPV Modular Turreted Mortar System (MTMS), which just completed U.S. Army evaluations at the Yuma Test Center and a successful demonstration at the Maneuver Warfighter Conference will also be displayed. This second prototype integrates the AMPV and common top plate with the Patria/Kongsberg NEMO remote-controlled 120mm turreted mortar system.
Kongsberg is the world leader in remote weapon system production and has served the U.S. Department of Defense for more than 20 years, providing critical remote weapon systems and turrets for land, maritime and air defense programs. All RWS and remote turrets delivered to U.S. customers are manufactured in the Kongsberg Johnstown, Penn. facility and leverage an extensive American supply base. Delivery programs include the MADIS RWS to the U.S. Marine Corps and the CROWS to the U.S. Army. Other deliveries include Naval Strike Missiles (NSM) to the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps and the NASAMS air defense system for protecting the White House and the National Capital Region. The top provider to the U.S., Kongsberg delivers unsurpassed quantities with increased capacity, having recently announced expansion at its Pennsylvania facility and the establishment of a new missiles production facility in Virginia.
10 Oct 24. KAI plans Light Armed Helicopter deliveries from December.
Korea Aerospace Industries’ (KAI’s) third Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) prototype flies during the 76th anniversary of the Armed Forces Day at Seoul Air Force Base on 25 September 2024. (Kim Jae-Hwan/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is preparing to deliver the first of 10 contracted Light Armed Helicopters (LAHs) to the Republic of Korea Army (RoKA) from December, a company spokesperson has said.
According to the spokesperson, the first production helicopter has started flight-testing. “The helicopter can be delivered to the RoK Army after the test flight is successfully [completed],” the spokesperson told Janes on 10 October.
The delivery schedule is in line with KAI’s December 2022 contractual agreement with the South Korean government. The RoKA’s acquisition of the 10 helicopters is valued at KRW302 bn (USD22.44 m). This includes integrated product support and training for first-time operators, Janes reported.
According to the company spokesperson, KAI is working to complete the production of the remaining helicopters in the batch.
South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has previously said that deliveries of the batch will take place after the army completes its “acceptance inspection”.
The South Korean government awarded KAI a second production contract, valued at KRW1.4 trillion, in December 2023. Helicopters from this production batch are due to be delivered to the RoKA from the fourth quarter of 2025, according to KAI. The South Korean Ministry of National Defense (MND) has said that the LAH will become a core component of the RoKA’s mobile strike force.
Imagery analysis suggests that KAI has produced at least three airworthy LAH prototypes. Helicopter No 001 conducted its maiden test flight in July 2019. (Source: Janes)
10 Oct 24. Hanwha Defense USA (HDUSA) and its parent company Hanwha Aerospace will exhibit artillery and other defense products at the upcoming Association of the U.S. Army’s (AUSA) Annual Meeting & Exposition, taking place from October 14 to16, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.
HDUSA seeks to leverage Hanwha’s proven technologies and mature production processes to locally deliver defense solutions that meet the most urgent needs of the United States and Canadian armies. Hanwha will emphasize international interoperability and industrial agility by presenting adaptive and dependable ordnance, munitions, and vehicles during the three-day show. This is very much aligned with this year’s theme of “Transforming for a Complex World.”
“HDUSA has the benefit of Hanwha’s expansive range of proven and reliable systems. But it’s more than that. Hanwha has a rich legacy of predictable program performance through disciplined process execution,” said Mike Smith, President and CEO of Hanwha Defense USA. “This is what HDUSA is positioned to bring to the US customer cost-effective combat capability beyond the speed of need.”
“We are focused on providing low-risk, long-range artillery capability, enhanced human effectiveness through manned and unmanned teaming solutions, and finding ways to ‘innovate at the round’ to address deficits in range, capacity, and survivability of current systems,” Mike added. “We believe there is a window to help the Army meet its needs with the proven platforms and technology we offer.”
Highlights of Hanwha’s show display include:
K9A2 Self-Propelled Howitzer: The 155mm/52-calibre K9A2 Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH) has a fully automatic handling system, an automatic turret, and an increased rate of fire of 10 rounds per minute at the push of a button, compared to the A1 with a rate of fire of 6 to 8. At this year’s show, HDUSA will be showcasing the A2 variant—a first for AUSA.
The K9 is the most widely used SPH in the world due to its firepower, high mobility, and survivability. It can engage targets at a range of 40 kilometers with currently available conventional ammunition and has demonstrated a range of 50+ kilometers with various extended projectiles. About 2,000 K9 vehicles, including localized variants, are in production or in service with ten nations, including Poland, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Australia, and Egypt, with the most recent country being Romania.
Modular Charge System: Hanwha’s 155mm Artillery Modular Charge System (MCS) is a Joint Ballistic Memorandum of Understanding (JBMoU)-compliant modular charge designed for use in 39 and 52 caliber gun configurations. The MCS features a clean burning charge that leaves little to no residue, eliminating the need for barrel swabbing between fires; the system is also equipped with high-strength combustible cases that can withstand the demands of rapid firing—both of which contribute to an increased rate of fire.
GRUNT (GRound UNcrewed Transport): The GRound UNcrewed Transport (GRUNT) is a 6×6 hybrid electric vehicle designed to support infantry operations, such as ammunition transport, medical evacuation, reconnaissance, and fire support. The vehicle can drive up to 290 kilometers when fully charged and has a maximum payload of more than 900 kilograms, offering a significant improvement in combat support and maneuvering capabilities. The GRUNT is an evolution from the legacy Arion-SMET, offering enhanced capability.
Wheeled Howitzer: Hanwha Aerospace is developing a wheeled Mobile Howitzer (MH) utilizing K9A2 turret technology, an adapter/mounting ring with stabilizers, and a heavy (8×8) truck platform. The MH is in the prototyping phase and will use a 52-calibre armament common with the K9A1/2, have a fully automated firing sequence, and be paired with a wheeled resupply vehicle utilizing the same ammunition transfer technology found in the K10 Ammunition Resupply Vehicle (ARV). With this new platform underway, Hanwha’s customers will have options of tracked and wheeled platforms that offer the same high performance.
Integrated Vetronics System: Hanwha Systems, an affiliate of Hanwha Aerospace, will display its integrated Vetronics System (IVS), which functions as the “brain” and “sensory network” of various ground combat systems such as main battle tanks, armored vehicles, self-propelled howitzers
Please visit Hall B/Booth No. 2809 to see the displays and learn more about Hanwha’s offerings.
10 Oct 24. Chemring, the FTSE250 business specialising in the manufacture and provision of technology and services to the aerospace, defence and security sector, today announces a joint feasibility study with the Norwegian Government into a new production facility.
On 10 October 2024, the Norwegian Government announced new measures to strengthen the Norwegian defence industry. Launching its roadmap for increased production capacity in the defence industry, the Norwegian Government has identified that the production of high explosives in Europe is significantly lower than the growing demand, especially for HMX, RDX and NTO. It also identified that, as one of only two manufacturers of advanced military explosives in Europe, Chemring Nobel’s production is crucial to both NATO and European allies.
This co-funded feasibility study, which is expected to be concluded by the end of 2024, will among other things investigate the geographic location, infrastructure requirements and environmental considerations of building a new production facility. The study will also consider the role and the levels of any financial contribution made by the Norwegian Government.
Norway’s Minister of Defence, Bjørn Arild Gram, commented:
“We see the production of military explosives as the most crucial Norwegian defence industrial contribution to Ukraine and Allied forces’ needs. Chemring is one of only two major manufacturers of advanced military explosives in Europe, and in our opinion they are the producer in Europe and North America that can establish increased production the fastest. Chemring’s production is crucial to help the West continue to support Ukraine with weapons. This joint study is key to unlocking further capacity into the supply chain.”
Michael Ord, Chief Executive of Chemring, added: “Today’s announcement is a clear indicator of the need to rapidly increase capacity across the defence industrial base to counter the numerous threats faced by NATO and its European allies. We are grateful to the support being provided by the Government of Norway and look forward to working closely with them on this important project.”
09 Oct 24. Eurosam’s first Aster 30 B1NT missile demonstrates capabilities. The test demonstrated the missile’s capabilities against a target in a complex scenario.
The missile was fired from an upgraded SAMPT launcher. Credit: DGA Essais de Missiles Site Landes/ OCCAR-EA.
The Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) has announced the first successful firing of the Aster 30 B1 New Technology (B1NT) missile at a testing site in France.
The French Armament Directorate (DGA) carried out the first qualification firing of the missile, developed by Eurosam, at DGA Essais de Missiles firing range.
It was carried out in presence of representatives of the three participating states (France, Italy and the UK) of the historical trilateral FSAF- Principal Anti-Air Missile Systems (PAAMS) cooperation.
Eurosam is a Franco-Italian joint-venture created between MBDA France, MBDA Italy and Thales.
The test demonstrated the Eurosam-developed missile’s capabilities in a complex scenario.
The missile was fired from an upgraded SAMPT launcher, configured for the forthcoming SAMPT New Generation, which is currently under development for both nations.
This event, part of the “Mercure” firing campaign, is a collaborative effort of the OCCAR-managed bilateral programmes, Aster 30 B1NT and SAMPT NG.
The new air defence assets is planned to be deployed to the French Air Force and the Italian Army and Air Force.
The integration of the Aster 30 B1NT missile extends beyond ground-based systems, with plans to incorporate it into naval programmes like the Mid-Life Upgrade Horizon, a European naval defence project, and Pattugliatori Polivalenti d’Altura, also managed by OCCAR for France and Italy.
This initiative underscores the missile’s versatility and capability in bolstering maritime and terrestrial defence.
In February 2024, OCCAR executive administration director Joachim Sucker and Eurosam managing director Anne Diaz De Tuesta signed a new European air defence contract amendment.
This amendment is the 14th update to the FSAF-PAAMS agreement. This programme was originally founded in October 1988 as a Franco-Italian venture in the development of anti-air missiles.
The latest amendment stipulates several offerings to the air defence portfolios of France, Italy and the UK. (Source: airforce-technology.com)
09 Oct 24. UK Royal Navy Wildcat fires Sea Venom anti-ship missile. The Wildcat is fitted with .50cal gun and carries Stingray torpedoes and Marlet lightweight missiles. Sea Venom substantially boosts the platform’s punch. A UK Royal Navy Wildcat HMA Mk2 attack helicopter has completed the first guided firing of an MBDA Sea Venom anti-ship missile, substantially increasing the capability of the aircraft.
The firing took place at the Aberporth range in Wales and was against a target vessel consisting of of three containers atop a barge. The target was designed and built by QinetiQ and each container wall had multiple individually controlled heating elements to simulate a target more accurately.
Lt Com Robin Kenchington, from the Royal Navy’s test and evaluation squadron 744 Naval Air Squadron, said: “Every aspect of the firing worked well.
“The Wildcat has another potent addition to its arsenal, increasing the ability of front-line crews to fight from a greater stand-off distance; this maximises their lethality whilst keeping them safe from enemy defences,” he added.
The Wildcat can already fire Sting Ray torpedoes for defeating underwater threats and lightweight Martlet missiles for attacking boat swarms or small ships but previously had been unable to act against larger warships such as corvettes.
Sea Venom is primarily anti-ship missile designed to destroy a range of attack craft up to large vessels from safe stand-off ranges at up to 20km away.
The missile has a 30kg warhead and coastal suppression capability, meaning it can hit shoreline targets, destroying potential threats to warships operating nearby. It can operate in a range of profiles, including sea skimming, and can be fired in a salvo. (Source: News Now/Shephard)
14 Oct 24. Moog Inc. (NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B) Defense Division in coordination with teammate, American Rheinmetall Vehicles (ARV) will display the new Flexible Mission Platform (FMP) to an expected audience of 33,000 attendees at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington DC from October 14-17, 2024. The FMP will be integrated onto a Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET) in ARV’s booth #2249. Additionally, a second FMP display will be on exhibit in the Moog booth #1051. The innovative FMP is a missile, mission, and platform agnostic system which allows users to seamlessly integrate weapons, sensors, or other mission packages onto any required vehicle, container, or trailer.
The FMP display in ARV’s booth will be fitted with both Javelin and Coyote launchers. Integrated onto the S-MET robotic vehicle, this configuration is ideal for anti-armor and air defense applications. “The integration of these advanced technologies, FMP and S-MET, reflects our continued commitment to providing the Warfighter with new solutions to meet current and future challenges. I appreciate the collaborative effort and innovative spirit of both teams in producing this unique capability,” said Chris Haag, Senior Director, Business Development, American Rheinmetall Vehicles, LLC.
In the Moog booth, the FMP – nominated for AUSA National Partner Best New Product Award 2024 – will feature daily changes of the missile launchers to showcase the transformative qualities of this pioneering product. The Army audience will be able to see various combinations of anti-armor and c-UAS effectors/launchers on the rugged pedestal throughout the three-day event. “One of our goals at AUSA is to clearly demonstrate the flexibility engineered into our product designs to meet the needs of U.S. and allied forces. Displaying diverse missile launcher integration capabilities will do just that,” said Jason Weiss, Land Systems Director at Moog Inc.
09 Oct 24. Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC), a leading manufacturer of medium-caliber cannons, is introducing its next-generation M230 Link Fed (M230LF) Dual Feed Bushmaster® Chain Gun®, offering two ammunition feed paths for the first time. This new 30x113mm medium caliber chain gun is a proven variant of the M230LF chain gun to counter uncrewed aerial threats (C-UAS) and ground engagements.
- By offering a dual feed, the need for mixed ammunition belts in a single feed is eliminated.
- The ability to switch between two kinds of ammunition is now possible. A standard recommended ammunition load includes XM1211 proximity fuzed rounds for C-UAS and XM1198 high explosive, dual purpose rounds for anti-armor capability.
- The M230LF is currently at Technology Readiness Level 6. Meeting this threshold enables the capability to undergo live fire demonstrations that are currently scheduled for early 2025.
Dave Fine, vice president, armament systems, Northrop Grumman: “The M230LF Dual Feed Bushmaster Chain Gun offers new flexibility by switching between ammunition paths using dual-feed technology. Using advanced technology combined with five decades of battle-proven experience, this next-generation cannon will empower operators to quickly respond to threats. This chain gun is the latest in our Bushmaster line to deliver reliable, multi-mission capabilities addressing the evolving threat environment.”
About the M230LF Dual Feed Bushmaster:
As the first medium caliber chain gun in the world to offer a dual feed, the M230LF brings flexible lethality to the evolving battlespace. The cannon’s system can instantly switch between ammunition paths, enabling operators to seamlessly address targets that require different 30x113mm ammunition types.
A dual feed system gives operators the option to change between advanced ammunition rounds with the flip of a switch, delivering increased mission flexibility and lethality. The ability to select between two different rounds ensures targets are addressed with the best ammunition for the target type saving time, reducing logistical burdens and allowing for more engagements before needing to reload the system.
For operators already using the M230LF, the Bushmaster loads out at a similar weight to the single feed M230LF and features 60%-part commonality, leading to faster routine repairs and decreased down time for maintenance. Single feed M230LF cannons will continue to be produced for customers that prefer that option.
Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with the capabilities they need to connect and protect the world, and push the boundaries of human exploration across the universe. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our employees define possible every day.
08 Oct 24. Trophy vehicle-defense system gets top-attack upgrade. Israeli defense contractor Rafael has equipped its Trophy active protection system with a top-attack defense capability, closing a vulnerability against drones and missiles that has plagued even heavily armored vehicles, according to the vendor.
Rafael officials unveiled the upgrade in a briefing here last week held ahead of the AUSA arms exhibition in Washington next week, where the company will exhibit its wares.
At the briefing marketing executive Ehud Nir showed a video of the system undergoing live-fire testing, with a countermeasure destroying a drone hurtling toward a vehicle’s turret from high above.
The company declined to specify how the upgrade works or when the capability was first introduced on Trophy, saying only the system had undergone numerous development cycles since first being fielded more than ten years ago.
The top-attack capability is available by way of a software upgrade to existing Trophy installations, according to Rafael.
Trophy is a defensive system equipped with so-called soft defense measures, such as electronic warfare, and an active defense system that includes physical interceptors destroying incoming projectiles before impact with a vehicle’s body.
It consists of a number of sensors and a radar with four antenna panels mounted around the vehicle. The interception process engages only if the system detects that a threat will damage the vehicle.
The system is in use on the Israeli Merkava Mark 3 and 4 tanks and the Israeli Namer armored personnel carrier. Trophy is also found on American Abrams tanks and has been tested on Stryker APCs and Bradley Fighting Vehicles. In February 2021 Rafael signed a deal with Germany to equip the country’s Leopard 2 tanks.
(Source: Defense News Early Bird/Defense News)
BATTLESPACE Comment: Clearly one of the major uses for this new Bushmaster will be for C-UAS applications building on the already proven C-UAS systems using the Echodyne radar.
08 Oct 24. Raytheon completes tests for Barracuda mine neutralisation system. The latest testing saw the use of a prototype unit, as Barracuda conducted operations and gathered information across a range of ocean conditions.
RTX business Raytheon has completed a series of controlled environmental tests for the US Navy’s Barracuda Mine Neutralisation System.
The tests were conducted at the Naval Surface Warfare Centre Carderock Division in Bethesda, Maryland.
The Barracuda is a 26lb, 48in-long expendable, semi-autonomous uncrewed underwater vehicle propelled by four small water jets. It is the US Navy’s programme of record for next-generation mine neutralisation.
It employs sonar and camera systems to identify and neutralise bottom, near-surface and drifting sea mines.
The latest testing saw the use of a prototype unit, as Barracuda conducted operations and gathered information across a range of ocean conditions, including different sea states and aquatic currents.
During the tests, the system demonstrated its hydrodynamic control, detecting, tracking, and maintaining position on targets on its own.
The recent tests represent the first instance of Raytheon conducting such evaluations with the Barracuda underwater vehicle.
This progress brings the programme closer to fulfilling operational requirements.
Raytheon Naval Power president Barbara Borgonovi said: “This event marks a significant milestone in the advancement of underwater security and naval defence.
“Barracuda’s performance reaffirms its position as a game-changing solution for identifying and neutralising naval mines, a critical challenge in modern naval operations.”
Raytheon first secured a contract for the Barracuda project in 2018.
The US Department of Defense awarded Raytheon an $83m contract for the supply of these mine neutralisers in 2018.
A total of 128 Barracudas are being built, with 63 for contractor trials and 65 for the Navy’s trials, according to Seapower. The service is yet to decide on the launch platforms for the system.
Following a design review in March 2023, the programme has now transitioned into the qualification testing phase.
In July 2023, Raytheon received a contract to provide engineering development model units to the US Navy.
The Barracuda programme is scheduled to enter low-rate initial production by 2027. (Source: naval-technology.com)
08 Oct 24. From Sea to Space: L3Harris Provides Multi-domain Defense Solutions. L3Harris is further diversifying its capabilities in the undersea and space domains. With a contract to supply future suborbital sounding rockets and continued facility expansion to support next generation torpedo propulsion systems, neither outer space nor the deep sea are limiting factors for L3Harris.
At L3Harris we anticipate and mitigate risk with end-to-end solutions that meet our customers’ mission-critical needs across all domains. The company’s target missile production site in Orlando, Florida, is primarily focused on designing, building and deploying sophisticated ballistic missile targets that are capable of mimicking a variety of realistic threat scenarios to thoroughly test U.S. missile defense technologies.
Building on the success of their ballistic missile target business, the Orlando team is leveraging its expertise in areas like avionics, advanced vehicle guidance systems, and attitude control systems to expand into adjacent markets.
In January, the U.S. Space Force awarded L3Harris an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to supply sounding rockets, or suborbital research rockets, to launch a variety of payloads for U.S. government agencies on an as-needed basis. L3Harris will design, deliver and help operate launch vehicles that achieve the customer’s specific mission objectives.
The Space Force sounding rocket contract comes amid L3Harris Orlando’s parallel expansion into undersea propulsion manufacturing.
“We’re building on our existing capabilities and expanding our operations to support the national security needs of today and tomorrow,” said Mike Holton, General Manager, Orlando Operations, Aerojet Rocketdyne, L3Harris. “Whether it’s providing launch services or developing the next-generation of torpedo propulsion systems, it’s important that we meet and exceed the evolving needs of our customers.”
The L3Harris team in Orlando recently modified 10,000 square feet of factory space to build Stored Chemical Energy Propulsion Systems (SCEPS) for next-generation torpedoes. SCEPS harnesses a reaction between lithium and other chemicals to produce unique propulsion characteristics. L3Harris is under various contracts to provide SCEPS to the U.S. Navy.
“This year, we’re on contract to deliver multiple full afterbodies,” Holton said, referring to the part of the torpedo that houses its propulsion system. “Our team specializes in the lithium casting and energetic loading for the SCEPS boiler system.”
Between the addition of torpedo propulsion manufacturing and the reintroduction of ground-launched rockets, the L3Harris team in Orlando is ready to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
(Source: ASD Network)
08 Oct 24. Rheinmetall is supplying qualification rounds of a new generation of tank ammunition for a joint qualification of the Bundeswehr and the British Army. Rheinmetall has successfully completed the development of the latest generation of its enhanced armour-piercing 120mm KE-ammunition to counter state-of-the-art protection technologies. The qualification readiness of the KE2020Neo or eKE (enhanced Kinetic Energy) ammunition has also been proven. As a result, Rheinmetall has been commissioned by the Bundeswehr and the British Army to manufacture qualification samples of the new ammunition. A corresponding official qualification contract was signed in September 2020 by the Federal Office for the Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) and the management of Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH.
The new 120 mm x 570 KE2020Neo kinetic energy ammunition continues the successful series of kinetic energy (KE) rounds from Rheinmetall. Thanks to the use of new technologies, the high-strength tungsten penetrator shall be able to penetrate the latest protection technologies.
Rheinmetall’s current KE projectiles also use a high-strength tungsten penetrator and offer superior performance against modern armour. The first generation to come into use was the DM13. It was followed by the more powerful DM23 in the mid-1980s, and yet later, the DM33. Rheinmetall developed two types of performance-enhanced KE ammunition when the Leopard 2 was upgraded to the A6 version. These were the forerunners of the DM53 and DM63 models used by the Bundeswehr. The DM63 is now available in the REACh-compliant version A1. The enhanced DM73 is currently the most advanced iteration, which has been introduced in the Bundeswehr for use with the L55A1 high-pressure weapon.
The recently awarded qualification contract once again underlines Rheinmetall’s leading role in the field of main armour armament and smoothbore technology. Rheinmetall’s 120mm smoothbore technology includes the Rh120 guns and the related ammunition family. It is the de facto standard for main battle tanks in NATO and the western hemisphere. It is used, among others, in the Leopard 2 and M1 Abrams main battle tanks and is currently also being fitted in the British Challenger 3 main battle tank with its increased combat effectiveness.
07 Oct 24. Turkish KARGU UAV Hits Target Accurately with Armour-Piercing Warhead. STM Defense Technologies Engineering and Trading Inc., which develops national and modern systems in line with Turkey’s goal of a fully independent defense industry, has made a new development in the tactical mini UAV field, of which it is a pioneer in Turkey.
Closely following the changing battlefields and rapidly developing solutions, STM integrated an armor-piercing warhead into Turkey’s first national strike UAV, “STM KARGU”, which it developed with national resources and is effectively used in the fight against terrorism. After an intensive development phase, the armor-piercing KARGU, which entered the field, hit the designated target with full accuracy in its first test shot. Taking off with armour-piercing ammunition, KARGU dived on the armored vehicle determined as the target and destroyed its target with pinpoint precision in its first test shot.
Güleryüz: Armor-Piercing Head OK, Next is the RF Seeker Head
STM General Manager Özgür Güleryüz stated that they are continuously developing KARGU according to the dynamics of the battlefield and continued as follows:
“We have been working on different payload versions of KARGU for a while now. KARGU, which has been actively serving in the field with its anti-personnel ammunition warhead to date, will now affect mobile and settled land targets, durable structures and armored land vehicles with its armor-piercing warhead. User personnel will be able to remove the anti-personnel ammunition warhead and quickly change the armor-piercing warhead according to the current situation in the field. We have come up with a concept that will strengthen the hand of our soldiers, who use KARGU very actively, in the field. It will also be extremely effective in terms of export. On the other hand, we have also come to the end of the RF (Radio-Frequency) Seeker Warhead integration, which bears the signature of STM engineers. With the RF Seeker Warhead, KARGU will be able to detect and destroy enemy radar and electronic warfare systems. We will have brought a national system to our country that can affect enemy elements, especially at an effective cost.”
The Choice of More Than 10 Countries in Three Different Continents
The strike UAV KARGU, also known as the “kamikaze UAV” in the public, was developed by STM with domestic and national resources. KARGU, which entered the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces in 2018, is effectively used by various security forces in Turkey, especially the TAF, in the fight against terrorism, special operations and cross-border operations. Drawing attention in the world arena, KARGU achieved its first export success in 2021, and by 2024, it was exported to more than 10 countries on three different continents. More than 5 thousand KARGUs have been produced to date.
Hard to Detect in Enemy Territory
With its low radar cross-section feature, KARGU is difficult to detect in enemy territory and can be easily carried by a single soldier and set up in the mission area within 1 minute. The national strike UAV KARGU provides a significant surprise effect and operational superiority with its artificial intelligence and image processing capabilities, silence, and ability to deliver the explosive it carries to the target. Consisting of a strike rotary wing UAV (VIAV) and a ground control station, KARGU can operate effectively day and night with its advanced electro-optic and infrared cameras. KARGU, which can stay in the air for more than 30 minutes, has a range of 10 km. KARGU, which has mission abort, return home and self-destruct capabilities, is equipped with high-performance navigation and control algorithms. In addition to the swarm UAV technology that allows KARGUs to operate in swarms, there is also the KERKES Project that allows them to operate independently of GPS.
The Name Comes from Old Turkish
KARGU, which means “mountaintop observation tower” and “hawk” in Old Turkish, navigates completely automatically with the help of a mission computer. KARGU is particularly responsible for detecting and neutralizing threats in risky areas before soldiers enter. KARGU, which operates completely under operator control with the “Man-in-the-Loop” principle, provides reconnaissance, surveillance, intelligence and precision strike capabilities to user personnel by detecting and confirming targets in high-risk, complex conflict zones. (Source: UAS VISION/STM)
04 Oct 24. LIG Nex1 displays new Micro Guided Missile variant. LIG Nex1 launched the latest variant of its Micro Guided Missile (MGM) at the Korea Army International Defense Industry Exhibition (KADEX) 2024 in Gyeryongdae, South Korea.
The company displayed at the show a mock-up of its 40×500 mm ‘Gun-type’ MGM solution, which has been designed to provide organic precision strike capability for personnel operating at the tactical edge.
The Gun-type MGM was displayed being launched from an underslung grenade launcher (UGL) attached to the rail adapter system of an assault rifle, which also carried a laser target designator (LTD).
Similar to the ‘Drone-Launched’ MGM solution launched in 2022 at the DX Korea event in Goyang, the Gun-type MGM features a semi-active laser (SAL) seeker that allows it to be accurately guided onto its target by LTD.
Weighing 1.5 kg in all-up weight, the Gun-type MGM has a range of up to 1,000 m, a company spokesperson told Janes . LIG Nex1 did not comment on the size of the MGM’s warhead but sources said it weighed less than 1 kg, meaning it would be suited to attack soft-skinned vehicles and personnel.
The munition itself can be fitted with either fragmentation or dual-purpose warheads, the spokesperson added before suggesting a live-fire test is expected to be conducted in November ahead of a “pre-programme test and guided test” over the course of 2025. Development of the Gun-type MGM is expected to be completed the following year, the spokesperson added. (Source: Janes)
04 Oct 24. Boeing-Lockheed JV’s Vulcan rocket launches second mission. Boeing (BA.N) and Lockheed Martin’s (LMT.N) joint venture, United Launch Alliance, said on Friday its Vulcan rocket successfully launched its second mission, in what is a crucial step to receive certification for Pentagon missions. Vulcan, developed to replace ULA’s workhorse Atlas V rocket and rival the reusable Falcon 9 from Elon Musk’s SpaceX, took off from the Cape It had successfully debuted in January this year. With the launch, ULA is looking to fulfill flight test obligations and complete its certification process with the U.S. Space Force, which requires two verification flights before it can put national security payloads aboard. ULA said the U.S. Space Force — a key customer for Vulcan — will review the data and compare it to ULA’s first certification mission to ensure that the vehicle performed as expected, before it can be certified. (Source: Reuters)
04 Oct 24. Leidos Touts Small Cruise Missile Solution, Announces Successful Test Accomplishments. Leidos (NYSE:LDOS), a FORTUNE® 500 innovation leader, announced today that its small cruise missile (SCM) — nicknamed the “Black Arrow” in recognition of its range and lethality — has successfully completed captive carry and store safe separation flight tests in preparation for guided flight tests from a U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) aircraft scheduled for this fall.
Store separation testing from an AC-130J, conducted in December 2023, confirmed digital twin predictions of safe separation, benign store dynamics, and trajectory characteristics. Additional captive flight testing demonstrated integration with the Naval Surface Warfare Center Battle Management System (BMS), operational flight software function, navigation performance, and flight safety system functionality.
Understanding the Defense Department’s critical need for affordable stand-off strike capabilities, Leidos initiated work on the SCM design in 2021. In 2022, a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) was signed between the company and U.S. Special Operations Command PEO-Fixed Wing and AFSOC. Following this agreement, the team began developing SCM, a low-cost, service-common, mission-adaptable “delivery platform” designed to facilitate future spiral upgrades for both kinetic and non-kinetic missions.
“Our experience in rapidly fielding the GBU-69 Small Glide Munition (SGM) and demonstrating the DARPA X-61 Gremlins, as well as our focus on agility and innovation, have led to achieving important milestones with our small cruise missile offering,” said Mark Miller, senior vice president for missile and aviation solutions at Leidos. “We have navigated hurdles and made significant investments to integrate on — and test off — the AC-130J, preparing us to proceed with further activities once the CRADA is complete.”
Leidos is leveraging model-based systems engineering, additive manufacturing, and AI optimization practices to support the timely and cost-effective development of the SCM, which aims to provide adaptability and utility for the warfighter.
One example is a modular airframe and open system architecture that accommodates distributed manufacturing for individual subsystems, which can then be rapidly assembled and tested separately before final assembly. This approach has been utilized by the company’s SGM program, which has delivered over 4,000 units to date.
“Affordable mass at long range is a recognized concept in the strike systems community,” Miller said. “Our open architecture SCM solution is intended to integrate the best subsystem solutions, regardless of the source. We believe that recognizing that subsystems and payloads will evolve with different use cases is critical and that innovation will come from outside typical prime contractors and venture capital companies entering the market with vertically integrated solutions.”
(Source: ASD Network)
06 Oct 24. RoK unveils unmanned amphibious rocket launcher. South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace has introduced its latest innovation in defense technology at KADEX 2024: the Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher. This system marks a significant step forward in amphibious operations, offering enhanced flexibility and survivability for military forces operating in high-risk environments. In a statement from Hanwha Aerospace, said that this system is a significant step forward in amphibious operations, offering enhanced flexibility and survivability for military forces operating in high-risk environments.. The launcher’s lightweight design is one of its standout advantages, weighing just 17 tons. This makes it deployable on amphibious assault ships and transport vessels, providing increased operational versatility. Conventional multi-rocket systems typically come with far heavier configurations, which limit their deployability in such scenarios. The system’s unmanned launch capability is a critical enhancement. “By removing personnel from the launch area, we’ve dramatically improved survivability,” the company stated. This unmanned approach ensures that military forces can operate the system remotely, reducing the risk to personnel in combat zones and allowing for safer operations during amphibious landings or in contested areas. Recognizing the unique challenges posed by launching rockets from moving naval platforms, Hanwha has incorporated an advanced stabilization system. This proprietary technology compensates for ship movement, ensuring that rockets stay on target even in rough sea conditions. “We’ve integrated a system that keeps rockets on target despite wave action, ensuring pinpoint accuracy even in the most demanding maritime environments,” the statement added.
“The Unmanned Amphibious Multi-Rocket Launcher is more than just a product; it’s a game-changer in amphibious warfare,” the company said. “It showcases our dedication to providing innovative, efficient, and reliable defense solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern military operations.”
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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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