31 Dec 10. UK testbed achieves space object tracking milestone. BAE Systems has disclosed that the UK’s ARTIST (Advanced Radar Technology Integrated Systems Testbed) radar has conducted successful satellite tracking trials in first steps towards demonstrating a capability to detect a ballistic missile. The trials, conducted from the US Surface Combat Systems Center at Wallops Island, Virginia, are believed to mark the first time a UK-built tactical radar has demonstrated long-range surveillance and tracking that could evolve to support a future ballistic missile defence (BMD) capability. (Source: Jane’s, IDR)
06 Jan 11. Saab Dynamics developing guided missile for Carl Gustaf. Saab Dynamics is working on an M4 version of its well-known 84 mm calibre Carl Gustaf multipurpose weapon system, as well as a range of new projectiles for the weapon, including a guided round. The latter represents a new approach by the company, as existing rounds for the Carl Gustaf are unguided. (Source: Jane’s, JMR)
11 Jan 11. Sources close to BATTLESPACE suggest that Selex is close to signing a contract for the Halo weapon locating system in Korea. This follows the recent purchase of more Saab Giraffe radars. The systems are required following escalation of aggression by North Korea.
08 Jan 11. BAE develops laser weapon to protect ships from Somali pirates. An invention developed by scientists at defence giant British Aerospace is set to become the latest weapon against piracy in the waters off the east coast of Africa. A type of laser weapon which can be used against moving targets will emit a green shroud which forces would-be pirates to become disorientated and temporarily blind. The laser cannon, works during the day or night, has already been tested at Pershore Lasers Trials Range in south-west England. A concentrated blast of green light will dazzle anybody who looks at it. Pirates often use small six-metre skiffs when approaching potential victims, and scientists have also been developing a high frequency radar to detect these small type vessels at the same time. The radar then works in conjunction with the laser, homing the green hue towards the oncoming pirate boat. The laser will not cause any permanent blindness as this would contravene United Nations guidelines on defence strategy. Should the pirates come closer to the ship, the laser can be intensified to increase distraction and concentration, reports Mail Online. According to the International Maritime Bureau, there were 430 pirate attacks in 2010 – an increase of 5.6 per cent on the previous year. The conclusion from the defence company is they had to develop something that would distract rather than harm or kill pirates and as New Scientist reports, if it gets backing for commercial development it could be made available in a year from now. (Source: Google)
05 Jan 11. The Lockheed Martin UK-led Warrior Transformation Team (WTT) has successfully completed the latest series of live firing trials using its turret design for the Warrior Capability and Sustainment Programme (WCSP). The trials, utilising the CT40 cannon and conducted at the Faldingworth Test Range in Lincolnshire, were further evidence of the maturity of the team’s turret design following the submission of its Revise and Confirm proposal for the programme to upgrade the British Army’s principal Armoured Fighting Vehicle (AFV).
The three-day trial saw Lockheed Martin UK and key Warrior Transformation Team partners oversee the firing of CT40 rounds in a combination of single shot and burst rates of fire, with the platform stabilised, using the Battlegroup Thermal Imaging sight.
The tests underlined the structural integrity of the turret system and the inherent accuracy of the integration.
Alan McCormick, Vice President and Managing Director of Lockheed Martin UK Ampthill, commented: “This latest extension to our trials programme further demonstrates the capability of our Warrior upgrade solution. By taki