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Saab’s Latest CARL-GUSTAF M4 System Impresses Customers in Live Fire Demo

September 26, 2014, 5:26 am
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Saabnewly-developed and much sought-after CARL-GUSTAF M4 saw the debut. During a successful ground combat systems demonstration at the Saab Bofors Test Center the M4 was the clear highlight for everyone present.

Saab's new CARL-GUSTAV M4 (Photo: Saab)

Intelligent, lightweight and flexible; the CARL-GUSTAF M4 is the latest man-portable shoulder-launched multi-role weapon system from Saab. Weighing less than 7kg, the CARL-GUSTAF M4 is a future-proof design that provides users with flexible capability and helps troops to remain agile in any scenario.

Since the introduction of the M1 model in 1948, the dependable CARL-GUSTAF has become one of the most prestigious and battle-proven weapon systems in modern military history. It is now in service with over 40 countries around the world. Over the years, continuous evolution by Saab has ensured that the CARL-GUSTAF remains effective and relevant across all operational environments.

The M4 is a further development of today’s widely deployed CARL-GUSTAF M3. Although it looks reassuringly familiar to anyone acquainted with the earlier versions, the M4 is a completely new experience.

“Its lightweight and shorter design, operational flexibility and high accuracy offer a truly powerful combination, not to mention it is as close to recoilless as you can get,” said Ulf Eriksson, product director at Saab and former infantry commander in the Swedish Army. “The M4 has been developed as a response to the evolving needs of our customers and we were very pleased to show the new capabilities to such a distinguished audience.”

To showcase the M4’s many design and capability enhancements a ground combat systems demonstration was held in Sweden on 24-25 September 2014. This customer-focused event was attended by about 120 guests from more than 20 nations. It was the first time the M4’s capabilities were revealed in front of an audience. Existing users and potential new customers could see for themselves how the CARL-GUSTAF M4 gives soldiers a true multi-role capability with a wide range of ammunition types.

The demonstration included a comprehensive series of successful firings with a range of ammunition types against moving and static targets. The demonstration also featured other renowned products from Saab including the AT4, NLAW anti-tank system and MAPAM mortar ammunition. Recently Saab unveiled the development of significant new capabilities for the AT4 family of disposable shoulder-launched weapons. These enhancements will deliver extended range (ER) and improved high explosive (HE) effects. This will allow the soldier to defeat enemy targets with much greater flexibility and in many more scenarios.

In addition to technical firings on the range the demonstration also incorporated a tactical scenario to underline the effectiveness and suitability of the systems in various demanding combat situations.

"We wanted our customers to see and know what to expect from our products and how they perform in a force-on-force situation. I am pleased to say that all products performed as expected and I am very happy with the outcome. Judging by the response from our guests the demonstration has proven to be a great success,” said Torbjörn Saxmo, head of Business Unit Ground Combat, Saab.

Saab sees great potential for all its ground combat systems in the coming years, not least for the new CARL-GUSTAF M4 which is already attracting a high level of interest. The M4 is the logical next step for users who already have great experience with and confidence in the CARL-GUSTAF system, according to Saab.

The official CARL-GUSTAF M4 product launch will take place at the AUSA exhibition in Washington D. C. on 13-15 October 2014.

Carl-Gustaf M4 Facts (+ comparison with previous models)

M2: Weight: 14.2kg Length: 1130mm
M3: Weight: 10kg Length: 1065mm
M4: Weight: <7kg Length: <1000mm


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Four ATK News Items of Great Importance

September 26, 2014, 1:10 pm
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Today’s battlefield is ever-changing in terms of terrain and engagement criteria. In terms of innovation, ATK comes right at you with four news items that are of great importance.
In short (more on these later next week, watch this space!),

  • ATK has recently qualified M829A4 penetrator for the ABRAMS on time and are beginning low rate initial production; 
  • Won an award of first-year Low Rip Initial Production (LRIP) order for the manufacture and production of the 105mm Kinetic Energy (KE) Training Round, used with the US Army’s STRYKER Mobile Gun System, closely replicating a tactical round to provide realistic training opportunities for STRYKER crews (the projectile is range limited which means it offers greater safety for use on training ranges), in a Fixed Price, Indefinite Delivery, Indefinitie Quantity (IDIQ) single award contract valued at $47.9 million should all options be exercised through 2019 (the new KE penetrator provides advanced armour penetration to defeat improved/advanced armour and high explosive reactive armour); and
  • Have demonstrated the Precision Guidance Kit (PGK) in a test with the German Army PZ2000 and DM211, showing PGK’s capability to precisely guide round (reliably) within 10m accuracy on multiple shots (best shots were two and 3m accuracy). 
  • Furthermore, ATK has received a $33.4 million contract, ensuring that XM25 development continues for two years and the programme is funded to get through final development steps and sets up the path to fielding. 


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AUSA 2014: MILITARY TECHNOLOGY in Washington DC

October 7, 2014, 5:02 am
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“Trusted Professionals - Today and Tomorrow,” the theme of the Association of the US Army's (AUSA) 2014 Annual Meeting and Exposition, will set the tone for speeches, industry and military exhibits, and special presentations from senior Defense Department (DoD) and US Army leaders on subjects relating to today's Army and the Army of the future.

The AUSA meeting - A Professional Development Forum - will focus on panel discussions; contemporary military forums; military family forums; and special multimedia presentations and educational workshops that reinforce, examine and showcase the Army - the profession of arms - the soldier and the Army family.

This year the AUSA Annual Meeting and Exposition will - for the fourth consecutive year - occupy the entire Walter E. Washington Convention Center as the Association celebrates its 12th year in this state-of-the-art facility.

Both levels of exhibit space will be occupied with displays from the US Army and the national and international defence industry.

AUSA is once again offering small businesses, including Association corporate members, an opportunity to showcase their products and services to approximately 29,000 attendees from around the world, including senior leaders from the Army, the DoD and Congress.


For AUSA 2014, MILITARY TECHNOLOGY has published various interesting topics in issue 10/14, available at the German pavillion.

Issue 10/14 includes opinions, news, cyber defence reviews, spotlights on the Russian aerospace and defence industry, Indonesia the Indo-Pacific, and Australia. For AUSA MT 10/14 focuses on the C-IED mission, the JLTV, selected soldier modernisation garment advances, and soldier training. Furthermore interviews with Kelvin Hughes, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), R.Adm. Geoffrey M. Biekro, Chief of Naval Staff of Ghana, and the Managing Director of ISDEF. On top of that, C4I in the Modern Age, Simulation & Training Feature, NATO Naval Smart Defence and Capital Ship Procurement, and OTO Melara's New Gunship Concept.



Check back for frequent news, articles, and features from AUSA 2014!

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AUSA 2014: Quo Vadis JLTV?

October 8, 2014, 1:32 am
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From WWII onward, militaries around the world have evolved their basic ground vehicles from small trucks like the original two-man Jeep into something resembling a miniature tank. The USA’s next-generation Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), due for delivery (next year) will have a curb weight of 14,000lbs, providing the armour necessary to survive roadside bombs that maimed and killed so many American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Patented by BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin’s major JLTV partner, the Occupant-Centric Protection System is proven extensively by live-fire testing. The structurally enhanced designs provide maximised ground clearance and effectively dissipate blast effects. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)

The JLTV is being developed by the US Army and the USMC as a successor to the High Mobility, Multi-Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) that has been in service since 1985. On 28 October 2008, awards were made for the JLTV Technology Development (TD) Phase to three industry teams: BAE Systems, the team of Lockheed Martin and General Tactical Vehicle (GTV), and AM General and General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS).

Once testing was completed and technology requirements established, a full and open competition was expected to be conducted in the late summer of 2011 for the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) Phase; which was awarded (three firm-fixed price JLTV EMD contracts totalling approximately $185 million) on 22 August 2012 to AM General; Lockheed Martin; and Oshkosh. Vendors were required to provide 22 JLTV prototypes for testing 12 months after contract award.

JLTV at a Glance: The JLTV is an US Army-led, multi-service initiative to develop a family of future light tactical vehicles to replace many of the HMMWVs used by the US armed services today. HMMWVs, which first entered service in 1985, were developed during the Cold War when IEDs and other anti-vehicle explosive devices were not a major factor in military planning. The HMMWV’s demonstrated vulnerability to IEDs and the difficulties and costs experienced in “up-armoring” HMMWVs already in the inventory have led to renewed emphasis on vehicle survivability. US DOD officials have emphasised that JLTVs are not intended to replace HMMWVs “one for one.”
The JLTV programme is a joint US Army/USMC effort to develop and produce both vehicles and associated trailers. Originally, there were three variants, but now there are two planned JLTV variants: a four-passenger Combat Tactical Vehicle (CTV) and a two-passenger Combat Support Vehicle (CSV). As planned, JLTVs would be more mechanically reliable, maintainable (with onboard diagnostics), all-terrain mobile, and equipped to link into current and future tactical data nets. Survivability and strategic and operational transportability by ship and aircraft are also key JLTV design requirements.

Unsuccessful bidders, Navistar Defense, BAE Systems, and General Tactical Vehicles (a team of GD and AM General), are permitted to continue developing JLTV candidate vehicles at their own risk and expense, if they notify the government within 30 days of the EMD contract award. Reports suggest some bidders might consider continuing development of JLTV candidates for submission for production source selection.

The DOD’s May 2013 JLTV Selected Acquisition Report (SAR) has established the JLTV per-unit cost at about $400,000 per vehicle, which contrasts with service leaders’ claims that JLTV per-unit cost would be around $250,000 per vehicle. The SAR further notes that the JLTV’s total development and acquisition cost is expected to be almost $23 billion in 2012 dollars. With a planned JLTV procurement of 55,000 vehicles, the DOD estimates an average per unit cost of $399,000 per vehicle and a programme acquisition cost of $415,000 per vehicle. In terms of future year dollars, the unit cost is projected to reach $550,000 with a total development and acquisition cost in excess of $31 billion. The Army, in defence of its $250,000 per-unit cost estimate, noted the SAR’s cost estimates include associated vehicle hardware and other costs, such as add-on armour, fielding, new equipment training, spare parts, and managerial and technical personnel associated with the vehicle programme.
There will be two JLTV variants: A Combat Tactical Vehicle (CTV) that can transport four passengers and carry 3,500lbs, and a Combat Support Vehicle (CSV) that can transport two passengers and carry 5,100 pounds.

On 3 September 2013, the Army began JLTV testing, which occured over a 14-month period at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, MD; Yuma, AZ; and Redstone Arsenal, AL. The Army then plans to select a single vendor by 2015, with the first Army brigade being equipped with JLTVs by 2018…looming sequestration cuts could delay that decision as well.

JLTV Industry

AM General's JLTV prototype has recently successfully completed EMD off-road testing at an undisclosed location. Developed in two versions, the BRV-O is designed to meet or exceed the EMD phase evaluation criteria for protection, performance, payload, transportability, reliability and affordability. It includes a four-seat combat tactical vehicle to support three different mission package configurations, and a two-seat combat support vehicle to support a utility mission package configuration for different roles across a full spectrum of military operations.

Equipped with a high-performance engine and transmission powertrain, a self-levelling suspension system, clustered super-computing power and other advanced components, the vehicle can be adapted to future changes in US military missions, enemy threats and new protection technologies.
AM General delivered the contractually required 22 prototypes to the government last year, and will not built any more JLTVs until the decision, as AM General does not foresee a need to do additional verification and validation of our processes.

AM General successfully completed all EMD phase milestones, including the design understanding review and manufacturing readiness assessment, prior to delivering 22 Blast Resistant Vehicles - Off road (BRV-O) to the US Government for testing in August 2013. (Photo: AM General)

The Lockheed Martin JLTV is systems-engineered to provide the crew protection of MRAPs, while returning crucial mobility, reliability and transportability to soldiers and marines. A patented Meritor PRO-TEC all-independent air-ride suspension brings agility and off-road mobility to this class of vehicles, while the dependable Cummins turbo diesel and Allison transmission combine abundant power with fuel efficiency. Rounding out the vehicle’s portfolio of capabilities are an exportable power-generation with substantial margin for future growth, and state-of-the art connectivity with other platforms.

The JLTV team includes tactical wheeled vehicles expertise at BAE Systems, which is an industry leader in advanced armour solutions and high volume assembly. The team also includes Allison Transmission, L-3 Combat Propulsion Systems, Robert Bosch, and Vehma International.

Lockheed Martin argues its high-tech skillset can actually help keep the cost down on JLTV. Before they started building, the company designed a new kind of computer programme to do complex trade-offs on how different designs would perform on different missions. Instead, Lockheed Martin came up with a six-dimensional framework that took inputs as varied as weight of armour, electrical power generation, and the terrain in different areas of Afghanistan, then computed outputs ranging from cross-country performance to gas consumption to the total cost to operate and maintain the vehicle over its service life. Lockheed is now using a similar approach for the mission equipment it will provide for the Future Vertical Lift aircraft, a massively more complex programme accounting for multiple variants and four competing designs.

The primary goal of JLTV is to provide a Family of Vehicles (FOV), with companion trailers, that are capable of performing multiple mission roles designed to provide protected, sustained and networked mobility for personnel and payloads across the full range of military operations. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)

Oshkosh is continuing to build additional JLTVs on the same production line that builds military FMTV and M-ATV trucks. Oshkosh Defense’s JLTV is the L-ATV, a light combat vehicle fully leveraging Oshkosh’s vast supplier network to produce a highly cost-effective vehicle. According to the company, the L-ATV combines field-proven technologies, an advanced crew protection system that provides MRAP-level protection and great levels of mobility in a light-duty profile. Equipped with the Oshkosh TAK-4i intelligent independent suspension system, this Light Combat Tactical All-Terrain Vehicle can also be equipped with the PROPULSE hybrid diesel-electric drive train with exportable power for greater functionality, efficiency and fuel economy.

On 14 June 2013, Oshkosh Defense announced the delivery of 22 JLTV development vehicles to the Army and USMC. Two months later, on 14 August 2013, Lockheed Martin delivered its 22 JLTV development vehicles. On the same day, AM General delivered 22 of its BRV-O prototypes.

Oshkosh’s contender for the JLTV programme: The L-ATV. (Photo: Oshkosh)

JLTV – A Numbers Game

No FMS are currently planned for JLTV, despite previous programme participation from Australia and interest from Canada, the UK, and Israel. This suggests there is no longer any foreign participation in the JLTV programme. It might be interesting to know if and why these countries are no longer interested, as foreign participation in these types of programmes not only increases interoperability but can also benefit from a cost perspective.

Lockheed Martin's JLTV contender at AUSA 2013. (Photo: DPM)

Reports suggest that the Marines remain committed to acquiring 5,500 JLTVs, particularly in light of the fact that procurement of the Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) will not begin until FY20, thereby providing a degree of funding flexibility. The Marines had originally intended to procure their JLTVs up front and are now supposedly working with the Army to determine how many JLTVs each service can buy per year.

The Marines have reportedly decided to cancel their HMMWV upgrade programme and will instead invest the funds in the JLTV programme. The Marines plan to reprogramme $53 million of about $57 million requested for the FY15 HMMWV Sustainment Modification Initiative into the JLTV programme. The remaining $4 million dollars in the HMMWV upgrade programme will be used to modify a selected number of HMMWVs not being replaced by JLTVs, and these HMMWVs are expected to remain in service until 2030.

On 25 June 2014, the Army released a draft RfP for the JLTV’s Full-Rate Production (FRP) phase. The Army and Marines plan to select a contract winner in July 2015 at a total projected programme cost of $31 billion by 2040. The Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) conducted an interim assessment of the JLTV programme and found the JLTV is likely to meet all eight key performance parameters (KPPs) — which are deemed “critical or essential” to JLTV operational capabilities — and are on track to meet two of four key system attributes (KSAs). The two KSAs that OSD has yet to assess are average unit manufacturing cost and ownership cost.

The President’s FY15 budget request for the JLTV is as follows:
US Army - $164.6 million (RDT&E $45.7 million) for 176 units, and USMC - $7.5 million (RDT&E $11.5 million) for seven.

While it is not expected that the Army’s JLTV requirements will vary greatly under the Army’s study of tactical wheeled vehicle requirements, Congress might opt to review revised JLTV requirements. In June 2013, the Army announced it would eliminate 12 BCTs and an unspecified number of headquarters and support units, and these cuts should be reflected in the Army’s soon-to-be-released study. It has also been reported that based on downsizing, the Army plans to reduce its overall tactical wheeled vehicle fleet by 60,000 vehicles. Since these announcements, the 2014 Quadrennial Defense Review and FY15 President’s budget request suggest additional Army and Marine force structure could be cut, thereby likely further decreasing JLTV requirements. In this regard, Congress could review proposed Army and Marine force structure cuts to determine if overall service JLTV requirements have also decreased proportionally. If overall JLTV requirements do not change under reduced force structures, the services could instead opt to field JLTVs to other units that were not originally designated to receive JLTVs. These potential force structure cuts could have an appreciable impact on overall JLTV requirements and the overall programme price tag as well.


JLTV blast testing. 
For more information, please see MILITARY TECHNOLOGY 10/14, available at AUSA 2014.
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AeroVironment to Develop New Class of DARPA Maritime UAS

October 8, 2014, 6:44 am
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The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has selected AeroVironment and its team of industry leaders to follow its successful phase I concept design effort with a phase II preliminary design for the Tactically Exploited Reconnaissance Node (Tern - intended as next-generation, mid-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft system [UAS]).  The 12-month, $19,035,007 phase II effort seeks to conclude with subscale flight demonstrations prior to a planned phase III award decision.

AeroVironment selected industry partners with uniquely relevant experience and capabilities for the Tern programme, including large aircraft avionics, ship integration and propulsion expertise. Advanced technologies form the basis of the team's unique approach to realiszing DARPA's programme objectives.

DARPA and the US Office of Naval Research envision a new concept of operations using smaller ships as mobile launch and recovery sites for medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) UAS.  Tern aims to make it much easier, quicker and less expensive for the US Navy and US Marine Corps to deploy persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and strike capabilities almost anywhere in the world.

"Our team represents the best combination of relevant expertise and technology leadership to make Tern a reality," said Roy Minson, AeroVironment Senior Vice President and General Manager of its UAS business segment.  "Our innovative approach to achieving DARPA's objectives for Tern holds the promise of an entirely new category of unmanned aircraft system that could operate more quickly and effectively by deploying from smaller naval vessels for longer, more distant missions.  We look forward to demonstrating this new capability to help protect our naval forces and those of our allies affordably and effectively."
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Germany Still Not Able to Join the Fight

October 8, 2014, 7:01 am
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 Germany’s defence procurement is under scrutiny, with rising costs and poor state of its military hardware. All eyes were on German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen, when, half a year ago, she gave the green light for Germany’s role in international crises, but now it came to light that some equipment is in such disrepair that Germany is unable to meet NATO commitments.

German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen sits in a German C-160 aircraft, which are in urgent need of replacement. 

The shortcomings came to light after two planes taking arms and trainers to help Iraqi Kurds fighting Islamic State (IS) broke down, as did a plane taking aid to African states hit by Ebola.

The military says a large proportion of equipment such as helicopters and fighter jets is unfit for service, casting doubt on Germany’s ability to help provide air defence for its NATO allies in the Baltics if the Ukraine crisis escalates.

The report, drawn up by KPMG consultancy at the request of the defence procurement office, identified 140 problems and risks facing nine key arms projects worth €57 billion ($72 billion), including the A400M transporter, the helicopters TIGER and NH90, the Eurofighter TYPHOON, the Joint Radio Systems (SVFuA) project, the F125 frigate, the tactical air defence system TLVS, the ISIS SIGINT System (SLWÜA), and the PUMA IFV, which is six years behind schedule. It makes 180 recommendations to address problems of rising costs and changing project parameters, which would take at least two years to implement.

Von der Leyen, who said the report would help focus efforts, blames delays in deliveries of spare parts and inadequate inspections and maintenance. The report said defence buying required a culture of leadership and responsibility, close co-operation with industry and precise contracts with clear incentives and penalties.

The military says only 70 of 180 BOXER AFVs, seven of 43 navy helicopters, 42 of 109 EUROFIGHTERs and 38 of 89 TORNADOs are operational. TRANSALL transport aircraft are also in poor condition, with only 24 out of 56 deployable.

With 3,617 German soldiers deployed on 18 missions in 14 countries, the consultants conclude that the fault lies in the ministry's leadership culture. In addition, ministerial procurement staff had to set incentives and sanctions when calling for tenders and deal with vendors as legal equals. The 57-page report calls for reactivation of the EURO HAWK drone to further test its integrated intelligence-gathering system ISIS, which in turn will be included in the TRITON UAS.

With the next parliamentary elections still three years away, there is enough time for von der Leyen to start implementing reforms – and for her critics to hold her to account. The MoD is seen as a political graveyard by many German commentators. Her last three predecessors, all CDU stalwarts, resigned early – one over a failed drone programme, another over alleged plagiarism, and the third over civilian deaths involving the German contingent in Afghanistan.
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PEO Land Systems Briefing: STINGER Missile SLEP Needed for US War Reserve Requirement by 2019

October 8, 2014, 7:04 am
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By 2019, the USMC primary ground-based Low Altitude Air Defense (LAAD) missile will require a Service Life Extension Program to retain operational relevance in the modern threat environment, according to a programme briefing attended my MT at Modern Day Marine 2014.

The Marine Corps fielded the STINGER in 1981, in shoulder fired man portable versions and later on in 1997s with 17 Light-Armored Vehicle – Air Defense vehicles (LAV-AD), housing two four-round launch containers and a 25mm cannon.

The PEO Land Systems office said the STINGER is planned to remain the Corps primary LAAD asset, the SLEP will investigate the feasibility of AN/PAS-18 STinger Night Sight replacement as a top technology programme.

Technologies are being sought to equip a potential STINGER Night Sight Replacement with multi-spectral infrared in Low and High wavelengths.  The sight should also be enabled with electro-optic capability sufficient to “detect traditional as well as emerging small/light UAS and cruise missiles,” according to literature distributed at the briefing.

The STINGER night sight replacement would also feature a large focal plane array (1280x1024 or more) and an optical/digital zoom capability to enable target detection and identification at the missile’s maximum range. Any new site must have a similar or improved form factor, similar size and weight, and use comparable or lower power levels without performance degradation.

Such a STINGER night sight replacement would require a wider field of view, at least 20° horizontal and 10° in the vertical. New sight technology should include off/standby-to-operate time of less then 10 seconds. Use of MIL-SPEC batteries with six hours operating time and 12 hours of standby power would be a requirement according to the programme briefing.

Addressing the STINGER missile’s inter-launch boundary, one now mitigated by use of M2 .50 and M-240B 7.62 calibre machine guns used in the anti-aircraft mode, a frangible round is being sought. Literature available at the briefing stated, “in order to increase lethality against these [aircraft and UAS] targets, a frangible type round is desired that would produce multiple projectiles and achieve an increase in the probability of a kinetic hit against the target.”
Josh Cohen
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PEO Land Systems Advanced Technology Investment Plan – Amphibious Assault Vehicle Survivability Upgrade Programme Update

October 8, 2014, 7:06 am
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US defense budget uncertainty has compelled the USMC Program Executives Office for Land Systems (PEO-LS) staff to make every taxpayer dollar count toward building the best possible future land capability for the nations’ premier expeditionary force. Programme officials at Modern Day Marine 2014 held in Quantico, Virginia detailed investment decisions.

Perhaps most critical to the USMC’s forced entry capability, the Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAV) Survivability Upgrade Program, soon to enter Engineering, Manufacturing and Development Phase, will upgrade approximately 392 personnel variants.

Upgrades will include underside and sponsor armor, installation of new blast mitigating seats (author note: the specific type of blast mitigating seats selected will, in all probability, be the same for the USMC Amphibious Combat Vehicle, according to an industry source in the program review audience), new spall liners, and requisite automotive and suspension enhancements to permit the vehicle to perform with the increased weight load.

The programme office mentioned a new Emergency Egress Lighting System (EELS) would be installed. Activated automatically should the vehicle take on water, the EELS helps Marines orientate prior an emergency seaborne exit. An EELS-type capability was planned for the cancelled Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV); it is now also being installed on USMC helicopters.

Programme officials noted three areas where new technology, rather then commercial off-the-shelf components, could have an impact on the project outcome.  Survivability being the first and foremost, officials suggested an interest in any new lightweight composites and ceramic-layered armor. As weight is such a critical factor, any materials that have lower weight substitutes, depending upon cost, would benefit the AAV programme. Sustaining the 40-plus year old AAV fleet is anticipated to be another area technological solutions may be used to increase reliability.

The AAV was initially fielded in 1972. Initially upgraded to AAV7A1 configuration during the 1980’s, the fleet was again modernised to AAV7A1 RAM/RS (Reliability Availability Maintainability/Return to Standard) between 1990-2000.

The Marines currently have three variants in service, the AAVP7A1 personnel type, the AAVC7A1 C2 variant and an AAVR7A1 recovery/field mechanic vehicle.  Only AAVP7A1 personnel carrier variants will receive Survivability Upgrade Program.

Survivability technology insertions, both active and under consideration include a modular lightweight external fuel tank, active laser warning and protection systems, emergency egress enhancements, blast mitigating troop seats, advanced transmission technology and fuel tank protection systems.

Data driven condition based maintenance and development of high performing track are key sustainment and in-service engineering components, PEO Land Systems officials noted.

The end of 2016 expects prototypes of the upgraded AAV; these will undergo testing with Low Rate Initial Production commencing in late 2017-2018.  Full Rate Production leading to an Initial Operational Capability anticipated in 2019, according to timelines provided at the PEO-Land Systems briefing.

MT asked if nations’ currently using the AAV vehicle would be invited to participate in the Marines’ upgrade program, a PEO official, requesting his name be withheld responded, “We have quite a few countries with vehicles as old as ours, obviously there’s a business opportunity for the program winner, at that point I am sure discussions regarding foreign military sales for the upgrade package will get more serious, we communicate with our AAV user partners on a regular basis and have been asked, although a few of these countries have developed their own upgrade programs so end-users actually may soon have options ranging from a standard rebuilt to a drastic modernisation and life extension, that’s what we intend to do.”
Josh Cohen

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Future Forces 2014: MILITARY TECHNOLOGY in Prague

October 9, 2014, 6:28 am
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For Future Forces Exhibition & Conference 2014, as well as for WBR Soldier Technology 2014 (both in Prague, Czech Republic), MILITARY TECHNOLOGY has published a Special Issue, available at the show or at Stand 405 in Hall 4. This Special Issue is also available at AUSA 2014 in Washington DC.




Check back for frequent news, articles, and features from the show!

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AUSA 2014: Boeing Debuts PHANTOM BADGER Mortar Carrier CSV

October 13, 2014, 2:06 am
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As Modern Day Marine 2014 drew to a close, Garrett Kasper, Boeing’s Combat Support Vehicle (CSV) spokesman, told MT the PHANTOM BADGER would be shown for the first time with its mortar module and ammunition trailer at AUSA 2014.

Boeing's PHANTOM BADGER (Photos: Josh Cohen)

“We look forward to demonstrating our 120mm mortar configuration at AUSA. PHANTOM BADGER can carry the mortar and more than 20 rounds in the vehicle, and can tow along an ammo trailer carrying in excess of 50 rounds. In the case of capability for the USMC, the PHANTOM BADGER configuration will effectively double ammunition load beyond currently fielded systems. Keep in mind, the mortar carrier we’re going to show at AUSA is just one among many potential systems, since the vehicle itself is modular,” Kasper remarked.

Designed in the V-22 transportable size range, Boeing’s CSV is also sling loadable and can be air dropped due to its comparatively low gross weight of 7500lbs. Kasper said the PHANTOM BADGER is in production, a single vehicle requires approximately 30 days to build, “though that could be accelerated, as we are getting a lot of international interest, when you consider all the countries looking at a V-22 capability or who currently have CH-47s or C-17s already. Their first question becomes, ‘what can I put inside our V-22?’ We know this vehicle is the best solution.”



A new design, the PHANTOM BADGER maximises use of commercial off the shelf (COTS) components and standardized MILSPEC parts such as a hydraulic pump, “we purposely chose the same unit in use on the M-88 armoured recovery vehicle,” Kasper said, noting a number of slightly more specialized commercial components used in National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) were incorporated into the vehicle. That matters greatly, considering their current customer consists of elements of US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).

“Boeing designed the PHANTOM BADGER to our customer’s exact specifications, and that took a lot of work. They gave us tough thresholds to meet, and the vehicle’s design and performance is totally customer-driven," Kasper elaborated further, “To make it even more versatile, the entire vehicle from behind the driver compartment to the rear is designed to be changed out with just six bolts, allowing a passenger space to quickly serve a more specialized purpose.”

Kasper said his group is “finding these capabilities more and more attractive to a far wider potential international customer base, considering the vehicle is not ITAR restricted in its basic package.  We can also offer it as a commercial utility vehicle, including many uses in other government agencies, forestry, customs or border patrol, and we are even looking at sales in the civilian market.”

MT observed the BADGER was fitted with thermal reduction padding in several areas around the engine, additionally, it was noted the vehicle design maximises carriage area, with both above and below chassis storage.




The PHANTOM BADGER is built by MSI Defense Solutions of Mooresville, North Carolina, in a teaming arrangement Boeing.  As explained by Kasper, “MSI has experience in the automotive and suspension aspects, while Boeing has the aircraft experience, so we worked closely together and built something innovative and reliable, which is what our initial customer was looking for.”

The vehicle has four –wheel steering affording a near 90° turning radius, a feature Kasper said the client needed to navigate quickly through built up urban areas, “Operators can steer both axels to move the Badger around a corner, far faster than a conventional vehicle. This is a huge operational advantage when a team is trying to exit a situation quickly.”  Another benefit is ability to raise the Badger’s ground clearance to adapt to road conditions, Kasper added.
Josh Cohen

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AUSA 2014: Textron Demos Glide Bomb on SHADOW UAV

October 13, 2014, 3:10 am
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Textron Systems Weapon & Sensor Systems recently announced a pair of successful live-fire demonstrations of its new FURY lightweight precision guided glide weapon off of a SHADOW Tactical UAS at the US Army's Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona.

The combined Textron Systems Weapon & Sensor Systems and Unmanned Systems team dropped FURY from a SHADOW 200, engaging and detonating on the target. This marked the first live drop of the FURY and the first live weapon drop from the Unmanned Systems SHADOW 200 aircraft configuration. The Textron Systems team, along with partner Thales UK, achieved this milestone within 15 months of initiating work on the small, lightweight weapon system.

"Our team is focused on quickly bringing new and affordable capability to the warfighter," explained Weapon & Sensor Systems Senior Vice President and General Manager Ian Walsh. "Based on an understanding of our customers' needs, we demonstrated -- in a short period of time -- FURY's full TRL 7 capability in a realistic environment. Not only is the weapon simple to use, accurate and attractively priced, it is an ideal complement to the trusted Shadow platform as well as other UAS or light attack aircraft. We have also proven that the lightweight weapon and carriage system creates very little drag, resulting in minimal operational impact to aircraft performance and endurance."

Textron FURY lightweight precision guided glide weapon. (Photo: Textron)

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AUSA 2014: ATK Features Advanced Products and Capabilities

October 13, 2014, 3:19 am
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At AUSA 2014, ATK, at Booth #6203, Hall D on the upper level, is highlighting a variety of advanced products and capabilities.

AUSA provides ATK an opportunity to highlight multiple products that support the US Army, including the BUSHMASTER family of medium-caliber cannons, precision guidance kits (PGK) for artillery and mortars, the XM25 Counter Defilade Target Engagement (CDTE) System, small-, medium- and large-caliber ammunition, and non-standard ammunition. ATK also features its special mission aircraft upgrades, aircraft survivability products, facility management expertise, and its portfolio of advanced fuzes, warheads and tactical propulsion systems.
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AUSA 2014: Meggitt Training Systems Innovative Approach for an Ever-Changing Training Environment

October 13, 2014, 3:21 am
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At AUSA 2014, Meggitt Training Systems, a global leader in simulation and live fire training systems, exhibits the latest advances in simulation and live fire training systems on booth #2617.

Providing both marksmanship and scenario-based training solutions tailored to the mission at hand, Meggitt’s FATS® M100 architecture is now the industry standard in virtual training. Meggitt’s advanced training system is designed to support multiple, simultaneous simulation and training modes using a flexible systems architecture. Meggitt’s fully-sensored, convertible BlueFire® weapons replicate the fit and function of live weapons using wireless communications, and provide the same accurate, real-time training diagnostics as tethered weapon simulators.

Many of Meggitt’s new simulation features were developed as a direct result of continuous customer feedback. This same feedback continues to drive advances in live fire training systems as well. Meggitt remains one of the few simulation and live fire training systems manufacturers in the world providing end-to-end training range solutions. Meggitt delivers an entire suite of live fire products, from stationary and mobile to infantry and armored targets; entry control point moving vehicles; shoot houses; and range control systems.

“Meggitt’s innovative approach to live fire and simulation training is setting the bar for an ever-changing training environment. Our pioneering work in research and development has created an exciting array of product enhancements that will heighten the training experience for our customers,” said Ronald Vadas, President, Meggitt Training Systems. “The Meggitt Training Systems team is proud to support this year’s annual meeting and is looking forward to an exciting new phase of our long-standing relationship.”

Meggitt Training Systems, makers of FATS® and Caswell technologies, a division of Meggitt, is a leading supplier of integrated live-fire and virtual weapons training systems, unmanned land and sea vehicles, aerial targets and electronic scoring systems. Following the acquisition of FATS® virtual training systems and Caswell International's live-fire ranges and services, Meggitt Training Systems has continued to grow its capabilities based on the legacy of these two companies. Over 13,000 Meggitt live-fire ranges and 5,100 virtual systems are fielded internationally, providing judgmental, situational awareness and marksmanship training to the armed forces, law enforcement and security organisations.
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AUSA 2014: US Army Selects Bell and Sikorsky/Boeing to Build Prototypes for Next Generation Helicopter Programme

October 13, 2014, 4:06 am
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The US Army has picked designs from Bell Helicopter and a Sikorsky/Boeing team to continue development of Joint Multi-Role (JMR) high-speed rotorcraft designs, building technology demonstration (TD) aircraft with flight tests starting in 2017.

The two prototype aircraft will be built and flown as part of the JMR Technology Demonstrator Air Vehicle effort, which will inform the Army’s Future Vertical Lift (FVL) programme to replace the long-serving Sikorsky UH-60 BLACK HAWK and Boeing AH-64E APACHE. The FVL programme will also inform the US Navy’s MH-XX programme to replace the MH-60 SEAHAWK.

Two other teams led by Karem Aircraft and AVX Aircraft were not selected for continued development, but the service is still interested in their technologies.

The Sikorsky-Boeing entry, called the SB-1 DEFIANT, is a compound helicopter design with co-axial rotors and a pusher-propeller. The aircraft is based on Sikorsky’s X-2 design that was designed to overcome the 200kt speed limit of most helicopters as a result of a phenomenon called the dissymmetry of lift.

The Bell Helicopter design, which is called the V-280 VALOR, is an advanced tilt-rotor design that is based upon technology similar to the Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey. The new tilt-rotor is smaller, faster and much more manoeuvrable than the Osprey and has a top speed of over 300 knots.

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AUSA 2014: Raytheon Showcasing the Destructive Nature of Cyber Warfare

October 13, 2014, 5:14 am
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Cybersecurity experts are hacking and crashing a remote-controlled drone helicopter as part of Raytheon's showcase at the show, along with wearable computers for the battlefield and products such as missile defence radars and precision weapons.

The helicopter demo shows how Electronic Armor, a Raytheon-built anti-hacking system, can detect even slight tampering with the controls of an unmanned aircraft (in the demo, one helicopter has the system and fly safely; the other does not, trying to illustrate the destructive nature of what can happen in an operational environment).

Other products Raytheon exhibits include:

  • Distributed Common Ground System-A Lite: A wearable computer that provides soldiers with a wrist-worn display of battlefield information – including the location of enemy and allied forces.
  • 3-D Audio: A sound system for pilots that uses a full 360° stereo field to warn soldiers of the exact direction of incoming threats. The system also makes radio channels sound as if they're coming from different directions.
  • A joint announcement with the US Army to discuss the Army's new electronic warfare battle management programme.
  • The anticipated December 2014 deployment of JLENS, the Army's missile-defence radar blimp, at Aberdeen Proving Ground in northern Maryland. JLENS is being launched to defend the Washington, DC region against cruise missiles, drones and aircraft.
  • Incorporation of a laser spot tracker into the guidance system of the EXCALIBUR artillery shell.
  • Full-rate production of the TALON laser-guided rocket, a precision weapon co-developed with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
  • A milestone for AN/TPY-2, a mobile ballistic missile defence radar.
  • The creation of a Raytheon PATRIOT scholarship for US Army soldiers
  • Pending delivery of 42 Precision Extended Range Munition (PERM) Rounds to the USMC for testing.



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AUSA 2014: Polaris Defense Debuts Newly Contracted Ultra-Light Vehicle

October 13, 2014, 9:30 am
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USSOCOM's Lt.Col. Utsler and Scott Wine, Polaris CEO launched the DAGOR ultra-light combat vehicle, at booth #3015. Polaris Defense's, a division of Polaris Industries, DAGOR was designed and tested, and is now under contract and in production – all in less than two years – leveraging Polaris’ world class off-road engineering and design capability, to meet an emerging threat to SOF and light infantry forces.

DAGOR’s design allows for ease of operation, maintenance and sustainment in support of combat operations. The vehicle uses a readily available commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) driveline, controls and components streamlining mechanic and operator training. The diesel/JP8 COTS engine was selected for its combination of power, weight and size. The open design of the cargo bed maximises loading space, flexibility and access for mission-essential equipment. 

“The DAGOR was engineered to meet a very demanding set of light-mobility needs for our customer,” said Jed Leonard, Manager of Advanced Mobility Platforms, and Polaris Defense. “It provides the optimal balance of rapid air transportability, payload and advanced mobility. The design offers our customers a modular, light-weight platform to support a variety of expeditionary missions.”

The vehicle's curb weight is less than 4,500lbs to maximise aircraft operational range. The width of DAGOR allows rapid loading into the CH-47 CHINOOK platform without modification and the weight allows it to be sling loaded under the UH-60 BLACK HAWK. The vehicle has completed government durability testing and is certified for CH-47 CHINOOK Internal Air Transport (IAT), air drop, and UH-60 BLACK HAWK Sling Load.    

The DAGOR has world-class capability in extreme off-road terrain at full payload. The purpose-built vehicle is designed with trophy truck-inspired suspension to carry 3,250lbs of payload or a 9-man infantry squad at a higher rate of speed over terrain usually traveled on foot. This allows the soldier to move quickly to the objective with mission-critical equipment.

“DAGOR is under contract with elements of USSOCOM and international SOF customers,” said Rich Haddad, Polaris Defense General Manager. “DAGOR is larger than our previous offerings like the MRZR and MV850, and represents a step up in size for Polaris and in payload for our customers. DAGOR highlights Polaris Defense’s ability to fill an urgent need, with an affordable purpose-built MILCOTS solution that can be maintained anywhere with a COTS supply chain.”

Polaris Industries is a recognised global leader in the off-road vehicle industry. Polaris Defense, a division of Polaris Industries, provides the US and its allies with a family of purpose-built ultra-light vehicles for military and government use. Polaris Defense self-funds military vehicle development by leveraging its high volume commercial production, quality systems and proven processes to provide military COTS (MILCOTS) vehicles. With a robust global network of dealers, distributors, and subsidiaries, Polaris Defense provides full life-cycle support of these vehicles throughout the world.
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AUSA 2014: Harris Provides Solution for the US DoD RIFLEMAN Radio Programme

October 13, 2014, 10:31 am
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Harris has provided a US Department of Defense (DoD) customer with the first production units of its FALCON III RF-330E-TR wideband team radio, an independently developed and fully compliant solution for the US DoD RIFLEMAN Radio programme.


Harris has provided a US Department of Defense (DoD) customer with the first production units of its FALCON III RF-330E-TR wideband team radio. (Photo: Harris)

Designed with the dismounted soldier in mind, the RF-330E-TR is smaller and lighter than existing wideband handheld radios yet provides superior battery life and transmission range. The radio quickly connects soldiers operating on the tactical edge into the tactical network for enhanced command and control and situational awareness.

The RF-330E-TR offers a built-in display with an intuitive visual interface, which simplifies radio configuration and programming, validates network availability, and monitors radio status. The radio has been certified by the National Security Agency (NSA) for Type-1 information security, the Joint Interoperability Test Command for interoperability and the Joint Tactical Radio System Test and Evaluation Laboratory for Software Communications Architecture compliance.

“The DoD has committed to full and open competition in the Handheld, Manpack and Small Form Factor (HMS) Radio programmes,” said George Helm, President, DoD business, Harris RF Communications. “Our initial shipments of the RF-330E-TR reflect our confidence and readiness for this competition. We look forward to the opportunity to deliver this enhanced capability to the US warfighter.”

Harris RF Communications is the leading global supplier of secure radio communications and embedded high-grade encryption solutions for military, government and commercial organisations. The company's FALCON family of software-defined tactical radio systems encompasses MANPACK, handheld, and vehicular applications. FALCON III is the next generation of radios supporting the US military's Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) requirements, as well as network-centric operations worldwide. Harris RF Communications is also a leading supplier of assured communications systems and equipment for public safety, utility and transportation markets — with products ranging from the most advanced IP voice and data networks to portable and mobile single- and multiband radios.
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AUSA 2014: New S-97 RAIDER High Speed Attack Helicopter Unveiled

October 13, 2014, 10:34 am
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Sikorsky recently unveiled the first of its two S-97 RAIDER helicopter prototypes. According to the United Technologies subsidiary, this event marks the beginning of the armed reconnaissance helicopter’s flight tests aimed at providing the US Army with its next generation of combat rotorcraft.



The Sikorsky S-97 RAIDER is a multi-mission helicopter, which has a 15% smaller footprint than conventional helicopters, according to the company. The S-97 RAIDER is wholly funded by private investment with Sikorsky funding 75% of the costs and 53 principal suppliers providing the rest. It is based on Sikorsky’s X2 technology, which features a pair of fixed coaxial rotors made of rigid, counter-rotating blades along with a six-blade pusher propeller for propulsion.

According to Sikorsky, this arrangement, along with fly-by-wire flight controls and active vibration control, provides not only a reduction in hub drag, but also a low acoustic signature, high cruise speed and improved high/hot hover performance.

Sikorsky intends the S-97 RAIDER as a multi-mission craft that will act as a replacement for the US Army’s OH-58D KIOWA WARRIOR helicopter or the Special Forces’ MH-6 LITTLE BIRD. Depending on how it is equipped, it can be used for armed recce, light attack, light assault, search and rescue (SAR), or casualty evacuation.

To achieve this, the S-97 has a composite fuselage for a take-off weight of 11,000lb (4,990kg) and is powered by a single General Electric YT706 engine putting out 2,600bhp (1,900kW). With its length of 35ft (11m) and rotor diameter of 34ft (10m), it can still carry a crew of two seated side by side, along with six troops or extra fuel and munitions. The production version may also be capable of autonomous flight. Sikorsky says that the S-97 RAIDER has a cruising speed of 253mph (407km/h, 220kn), which is more than double the speed of conventional helicopters, and pulls three G’s in the turns for greater agility. It has a range of 308nmi (354mi, 570km), flight endurance of 2hr 40min, and a service ceiling of 10,000ft (3,048m). The copter can carry a selection of armaments, including a 50 calibre or 7.62mm machine gun with 500 rounds, a 7-shot rocket pod with 2.75 in rockets, or HELLFIRE missiles.


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AUSA 2014: Elbit Systems of America Showcases Real-Time ISR Solutions, Integrated Systems, and More

October 13, 2014, 10:43 am
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With growing demands for actionable information and knowledge for the soldier, there is a critical need for solutions that enable true terrain dominance and intelligence based warfare.Elbit Systems of America (a subisduary of Elbit Systems) showcases an impressive line-up of next-generation systems and solutions at booth # 1139, Hall A, enabling the US Army to react as a unified force with unprecedented speed, precision, and intelligence.



Intelligence gathering and knowledge dissemination are key components of Elbit Systems of America’s rapid mobility solution. Connectivity, situational awareness and combat effectiveness are improved via a command and control (C2) network. In one scenario, the mission might begin with the SKYLARK I-LE, Block 2, unmanned aerial system (UAS) flying silently overhead. Using a unique gyroscopically stabilised, gimbaled payload and proven flight control algorithms to provide automatic tracking of dynamic targets, the SKYLARK quickly transmits information back to the soldiers on the ground.

Equipped with a Micro Designator Marker (MDM) laser, the SKYLARK UAS can precisely designate targets allowing ground forces to respond with laser guided munitions fired from Elbit Systems’ mobile 120mm mortar system. Ground commanders can then choreograph and degrade threats while reducing their own casualties. The SKYLARK system creates intelligence, delivers targets of opportunity and assists in closing the loop with shooters. (Photos: Elbit Systems)

“Using these systems, we quickly turn collected information into actionable and effective response, facilitating terrain dominance and neutralizing the enemy,” commented Raanan Horowitz, President and CEO of Elbit Systems of America today at AUSA 2014. “We are upholding our mission of protecting and saving the lives of our US soldiers fighting for freedom and innocent civilians caught in the conflict.”

Elbit Systems of America understands that accurate situational awareness allows for quick coordination and effective responses to rapidly changing operational scenarios. Achieving this level of awareness requires advanced technologies involving the latest hardware and software for both Army Infantry and Aviators.

At Elbit Systems of America’s booth during AUSA the following are highlighted:

  • SKYLARK I-LE, Block 2 - is a small hand-launched UAS equipped with day/night stabilised payload, a laser pointer and/or designator, and a data link fully interoperable with the One System and Rover Remote Video Terminals (RVTs).
  • Integrated Modular Avionics Solution (IMAS) - integrates advanced processing, wide field of view helmet mounted displays and a large area panoramic display to provide unparalleled information display, sensor data, networking and decision aids to helicopter pilots. Using a true open architecture IMAS provides high performance and scalable mission solution suited for multiple platforms.
  • Precision Engagement Seeker Solutions – the high performance, cost effective family of precision semi-active laser and multi-mode seekers are designed to effectively engage both static and highly manoeuvring targets in various combat scenarios and environments.
  • Joint Terminal Attack Controller Laser Target Designator (E-JTAC LTD) – is one of the lightest weight laser targeting/hand-off solutions available for foot mobile soldiers with day and night capabilities. 
  • Common Laser Rangefinder Improved Capability (CLRF IC) – is an extremely lightweight targeting device incorporate day and night imaging and high accuracy laser based range finding.
  • GRANITE XR – A Advanced Multi-Sensor Day/Night Electro-Optical System that offers advanced thermal imaging with high resolution detecting and long-range performance for surveillance and observation operations.
  • Advanced Communication Devices – family of dual-band JTRS and MOUS compatible power amplifiers designed for the smallest space claim and lowest power requirements

The Enhanced Joint Terminal Attack Controller Laser Target Designator (EJTAC LTD) is a light-weight laser designator/rangefinder, at less than five pounds, is a foot mobile solution for guidance of munitions and a laser hand-off to aircraft. Featuring a digital magnetic compass and near infrared laser pointer, the EJTAC LTD is effective during both day and night missions.





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AUSA 2014: Seen & Heard on Day One

October 13, 2014, 2:15 pm
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Logos Technologies exhibits a range of integrated sensor, data collection and advanced processing solutions at booth 7815.

KESTREL wide-area persistent surveillance (WAPS) system (Photo: Logos Technologies)

Among the company's technologies on offer are the award-winning KESTREL wide-area persistent surveillance (WAPS) system, one of the only aerostat-mounted WAPS systems capable of providing 360°, geographically-and-temporally tagged area coverage of an entire city.

By integrating infrared and electro-optical (EO/IR) sensors with full-motion video capabilities, KESTREL allows operators to survey up to 100 square kilometres at high-and-low resolutions, day and night, for weeks at a time. Analysts can access archival imagery for up to 30 days from full field of view or defined surveillance 'watchboxes' established for specialised tracking.

Additional technologies on show include the lightweight REDKITE WAPS pod for manned and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and the dual EO and acoustic SERENITY hostile fire detection system. Serenity identifies weapons launch and detonation events to provide an extra dimension of battlefield awareness and augment WAPS capabilities like Kestrel.

“The combination of sophisticated, wide-area motion imagery sensors and advanced activity-based analytics we provide offers the US Army robust capabilities to enhance force protection, situational awareness, and intelligence,” said Dr. John Marion, President of Logos Technologies. “With proven success in theatre, these technologies are designed to help our forces understand the threat landscape as it evolves and keep them ahead of the battle.”

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TAR-Ideal Concepts, a leading provider of defence and security solutions, introduces the TL5 Pro, a personal marker with adjustable visibility range for the protection of soldiers from friendly fire, at the Israel National Pavilion, Hall B, Stand #2353. The marker, which is already in use by the IDF, is invisible to the naked eye in IR mode. TL5 Pro can also be turned into a helicopter landing strip marker in seconds.

TAR-Ideal Concepts' TL5 Pro personal marker with adjustable visibility range for the protection of soldiers from friendly fire. 

Weighing only 0.20 lbs (90 grams), the TL5 Pro is a tactical IR & Visible Personal Marker that protects soldiers from friendly fire. The marker has an adjustable visibility range of 164ft, 984ft, 2,624ft, and 4,921ft (50m, 300m, 800m, and 1,500m), reducing the chances of being detected by the enemy. In addition to the IR mode, it has three visible light colours - Red, Blue, and White - as well as a 360° light scattering ability. Both the visibility range and the colour can be set according to the needs of the unit and the specifications of the mission.

The marker - used by the IDF in recent conflicts - can be easily mounted on the soldier's helmet, weapon, or clothing.  It can also be adjusted within seconds for use as a marker for helicopter landing strips, using a lightweight, compact landing set. This eliminates the need for additional landing equipment, and thus decreases the weight carried by the soldier.

According to Aviad Matza, CEO, “the TL5 Pro was developed in close cooperation with the IDF, based on operational experience and demands arising from the field. Already in use by the IDF, the solution has been proven to save lives. Exhibiting at AUSA, we are looking for new opportunities to expand our activities in this market and develop new partnerships.”

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Oshkosh Defense is displaying its Light Combat Tactical All-Terrain Vehicle (L-ATV), at AUSA, as well as the M-ATV.

The M-ATV Extended Intervention (EXI) variant, which is built to establish and support operations in hostile environments, is shown for the first time at AUSA. The M-ATV EXI is equipped with weapon systems, in addition to Oshkosh’s 360° situational awareness system and forward collision avoidance system that provide troops with the same accident prevention technology that comes standard on many mainstream cars to improve driver awareness.

Oshkosh is also showcasing its TERRAMAX Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) technology with a video demonstration at the booth of the company’s latest advancements in the space.

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MTC Industries and Research, a leader in the design, development and manufacture of a range of systems for the aerospace and defenve markets, presents its Mortar and Rocket Steering Unit at the Israel Pavilion, Hall B, Stand #2462.

MTC's advanced solution is a high performance, exceptionally accurate, and reliable steering system for mortars and rockets. As part of a flagship project, MTC has developed steering units that can adjust or steer the rocket or mortar towards the target at any time and under any weather conditions while in the air.

This capability, and the precision enabled by the system, significantly reduces collateral damage - including injury to civilians in the vicinity. The steering unit also decreases the amount of mortars and the number of launches required, due to a hit rate of 70% - representing considerable savings. The system is operated by four separate electric DC motors, driving 4 foldable wings, which are locked in a folded position.

 “Mortars and rockets have a significant drawback - they are not very accurate, and can thus potentially cause harm to uninvolved populations and untargeted structures in the area. In order to give armies around the world a solution minimising injuries to civilians and damage to neutral structures, MTC has developed a mechanical-engineering system that enables control over mortars and rockets until they reach their targets,” explained Yechiel Cohen, President and Founder of MTC Industries & Research.

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At AUSA, VT System's booth (#2317) features a demonstration of MÄK's latest simulation and visualisation solutions including MÄK's new SAR simulation.

VR-Forces is MÄK’s complete simulation solution – a powerful and flexible Computer Generated Forces (CGF) platform to fill your synthetic environments with urban, battlefield, maritime, and airspace activity. (Screenshot: MÄK)

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Diehl is focusing on protection technology, precision ammuntion and vehicle equipment at AUSA 2014.

Diehl Defence is presenting modern convoy protection technology as well as medium-caliber precision ammunition for armies and navies. The “Floating Smoke Pot,” operative with the US Marines, is also part of the exhibition.

A multitude of ammunition fuzes for infantry-, artillery-, air force and navy weaponry as well as the proven Diehl track for armored vehicles complement the product portfolio.

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CACI International exhibits and demonstrates solutions for secure communications, training, and intelligence at booth #8029. In keeping with this year’s exposition theme, “Trusted Professionals – Today and Tomorrow,” CACI showcases innovative solutions to keep today’s Army strong and mission-ready, some of which include:

  • A wireless smartphone solution for secure communications that utilises tokens for encryption and authentication
  • 4PLus, a flexible enterprise approach to supply chain management and the only IT system on the market that unifies end-to-end supply chain management and interfaces with an unlimited number of partner systems to provide a single face to the customer
  • ePLM IDE, an enterprise product lifecycle management solution utilising modelling and simulation techniques to realise programme efficiencies
  • AIR VIGILANCE, a flexible, software-defined radio signals intelligence collection system
  • Mobile training applications and 3D interactive multimedia instruction tailored to the Armed Forces
  • A social media analytics solution providing early warnings of civil unrest, disease, election outcomes, and more


According to CACI President and Chief Executive Officer Ken Asbury, “The solutions that CACI will showcase at AUSA highlight our commitment to bringing innovation to our government’s highest priorities in safeguarding the nation. Our secure mobility and signals intelligence solutions demonstrate our cutting-edge technologies for our Department of Defense and Intelligence Community customers.”

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As a leading manufacturer of aluminium military products, FAUN Trackway USA focuses on its Heavy Ground Mobility System (HGMS) at the exhibition, alongside showcasing a selection of models and panel samples.

HGMS was developed for the Norwegian Army 15 years ago and is today held in the inventories of more than 35 Armed Forces from across the world. The Danish Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) is the most recent to order a number of the units.

The product is mounted on to a hydraulic spool and comprised of Military Load Classification (MLC) 70 aluminium Trackway. Requiring only minimal manpower for deployment, the system is fitted to the chassis of a military vehicle and powered by its engine and a full length of 50m Trackway can be laid by two men in only six minutes.

Trackway is a temporary solution designed to aid military and disaster-relief missions in challenging terrains such as sand, snow, desert and marshland. It can support tracked or wheeled vehicles weighing up to 70t as a ground-surfacing aluminium matting.

 “North America offers a significant growth market for FAUN Trackway USA, so we are keen to build existing relationships on the defence circuit and forge new ones at AUSA,” explained Mike Holdcraft, Vice President at FAUN Trackway USA. “Our portable roadway and runway systems offer practical and safe access to a variety of environments to Armed Forces around the world and we look forward to discussing our products further with the armed forces personnel at the exhibition.”

FAUN Trackway USA is positioned as part of the UK pavilion at booth #1716 within the UK pavilion.

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Army Electronic Warfare Division chief Col. Jim Ekvall along with Frank Pietryka, the Director of Airborne Information Operations at Raytheon, briefed the media about the recently awarded contract to build the Army’s Electronic Warfare Planning and Management Tool (EWPMT). The briefing detailed how the EWPMT software tool will be an integral piece of equipment that will allow soldiers to easily manage, synchronise and coordinate electronic warfare operations across the electromagnetic battlefield of the future. During the third quarter of FY15 the first set of the software tools will be tested in select units.

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Roboteam, a leader in the design, development, and manufacturing of innovative, highly intuitive, ruggedised unmanned systems for defence, homeland security, and public safety forces, launched its new portable command and control (C2) system with the capability of all-user, real-time ISR feed sharing – at AUSA 2014. The system can stream up to 4 video channels simultaneously, providing a complete live picture of the operational area in a server-less system using a distributed network with no single point of failure, according to Roboteam.

The Tactical Situational Awareness (TacSA) system was developed in partnership with the Combating Terrorism Technical Support Office (CTTSO) for several Department of Justice and Special Operations Forces (SOF) users, to meet the challenges of reliable tactical situational awareness while connecting and managing multiple dismounted forces, first responders, and systems working in the same area.

TacSA's capabilities include real-time geo-location tracking of all operators, as well as the accessibility of the program to all users - who can all communicate with each other, and individually view ISR feeds. Users can instantly send on-map telestration, capture and share chats, pictures, and files, as well as navigation and reference points. The system enables information sharing, including live video feed, to be shared immediately among all users, thus removing communication delays. The TacSA system works on a secure, closed, self-healing, server-less mesh network that is ideal for operating in any environment - from open desert to complex subterranean locations.  The system is both adaptable and intuitive, whether supplied on ROBOTEAM’s ROCU 5 personal handheld controller - or on any other smart platform with Windows and Android operating systems. According to Shahar Abuhazira, CEO of ROBOTEAM North America, “The TacSA is based on extensive operational experience and the needs arising from the field - as well as conclusions drawn from recent events. The unique advantage of the system is its delivery of a complete and live picture of the arena, enabling every user to communicate and view events from multiple angles of the field, thanks to its ability to handle 4 video channels simultaneously. This capability provides unprecedented situational awareness to forces operating in the arena.”

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Thales is showcasing its wide array of communications and situational awareness technologies on booth #6907. Products on display include the SCORPION Helmet Mounted Cueing System; RIFLEMAN family of radio systems; and SATCOM Manpack Terminals.

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TE Connectivity (TE) at booth #8023 exhibits latest electrical interconnect solutions that provide connectivity and high-speed data transmission for networking in armoured vehicles in electronic warfare and C4ISR applications.



The US Army’s Vehicle Integration for C4ISR/EW Interoperability (VICTORY) programme is a framework that makes it easier for electronic mission equipment to be integrated into ground vehicles, and for vehicles to share data. The system of networked vehicles provides situational awareness for troops, as well as reducing the number of independent systems on each vehicle. This reduces size and weight of systems, while also removing redundancy.

TE features several rugged and flexible end-to-end solutions that offer design engineers modularity for easy integration, advanced components for weight and space savings, and a variety of options in gigabit and 10gb Ethernet connectivity to help meet tough application challenges.

While the idea of composites and their use in the aerospace and defence industry is well established, new capabilities and new material formulations make the use of composite electronic enclosures deserving of another look. Replacing metal enclosures with composites gives all the mechanical and electrical benefits of metal, but with the added bonuses of lower weight, corrosion resistance, and lower costs. The initial attraction of composite enclosures is weight savings. In aircraft and satellites, saving a pound here and a pound there adds up to significant overall weight reduction, which translates into performance increases. A UAV can fly longer; a fighter jet can achieve better fuel economy and carry more armaments. In a satellite, every pound of reduced weight can save thousands of dollars in launch costs. But, beyond weight savings, composite enclosures must also meet other application requirements cost-effectively. For commercial devices incorporating wireless functionality, TE is one of the leading suppliers of molded interconnect devices (MID). Cell phones and tablet computers are just two classes of devices that typically include such antennas. For the military and aerospace market, enclosures can contain multiple antennas, complex 3D directional antennas, and even tunable antennas. Enclosures with such antennas are often less damage prone and usually have much less ability to be detected. TE’s Lightweight Composite EMI Shields are featured at AUSA as well.

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Pasternack Enterprises, an industry-leading manufacturer and supplier of RF, microwave and millimetre wave products, announces the release of eight new high power linear amplifiers that provide accurate signal amplification across a multitude of applications, such as communications, radar and sensors, test instrumentation, telecom infrastructure, fixed microwave backhaul, commercial two-way radio, and many others. These GaAs PHEMT MMIC-based amplifiers operate from 0.8-9.5 GHz and can be used as high power output amplifiers or driver amplifiers depending upon the system architecture.

Pasternack Enterprises released of eight new high power linear amplifiers that provide accurate signal amplification across a multitude of applications.

Pasternack’s new high power RF amplifiers provide a choice of gain levels, frequency ranges, power outputs, and exhibit gain performance ranging from 19-32.5 dB. These amps also offer competitive gain flatness from ±0.5 dB to ±2 dB and excellent third order intercept levels (IP3) from 38.5-47 dBm. The company’s linear RF amplifiers are offered in various frequency ranges with optimised performance over the pertinent range and are specially designed to ensure the robustness of the modules and ease of use through features such as mounting holes in the body of the aluminum enclosure which assures a more effective heat dissipation path.

The performance of Pasternack’s high power amplifiers is achieved through using GaAs PHEMP MMIC circuitry along with advanced hybrid integration techniques. The amplifiers are fully matched internally for input and output at 50ohms which eliminates the customers’ need for any sensitive external RF tuning components. All of the new amplifiers are rated for operation over a -55°C to +85°C temperature range.
           
“We are very pleased to offer this new family of GaAs MMIC-based broadband high power amplifier modules to the market as it brings additional diversity and versatility to our growing RF amplifier offering”, said Michael Rachlin, Director of Product Management at Pasternack. “Providing our industry with a comprehensive selection of market-leading amplifier solutions available for immediate shipment is a key strategic objective for Pasternack because it eliminates our customers’ burden of extended lead times which is common throughout the industry.”

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