Category Archives: Ground Forces

Ground Forces

German PUMA

After extensive testing by the Bundeswehr’s Technical services, many months of testing in extreme heat and cold abroad, and several field trials by the military, another milestone has now been achieved in the project PUMA Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) with the authorization for use granted by the BAAINBw defence procurement agency.

The ballistic armour is designed to provide protection against hand-held anti-tank weapons, medium calibre weapons, artillery fragments and bomblets
The ballistic armour is designed to provide protection against hand-held anti-tank weapons, medium calibre weapons, artillery fragments and bomblets

Many conditions had to be met for this, some of which key are listed below. On the basis of tests and test results, technical optimizations were repeatedly developed, qualified and continuously introduced into series production vehicles. Thereafter, the test report was finalized by the Central Military Motor Vehicles office (Zentrale Militärkraftfahrtstelle), which issued the necessary approval and made it street-legal. Finally, the Army Inspector (Inspekteur Heer) formally declared April 13 that the Schützenpanzer (SPz) PUMA was ready to enter service. This was on the same day that the BAAINBw granted the clearance for service.

Thus, operations are scheduled to begin next week with the training of instructors on the first seven armored vehicles. Others will follow in the coming months. This training period will continue until the end of the year at the training center in Munster. There, an introduction organisation PUMA eine Einführungsorganisation (EFO) was set up specifically for the PUMA, and will perform the initial training of mechanized infantry companies on IFV PUMA for three months, also at the Munster training center. The EFO will also accept delivery of the vehicles by the manufacturer, adds Bundeswehr-furnished equipment and hands them over to the trainee soldiers there. Thus, the Panzer Grenadiers will take «their» own SPz PUMA after the three-month training cycle, in order to further familiarize themselves with «their» new vehicles on their bases.

The contracts necessary for the repair and technical and logistical support have been concluded between the army and the PSM GmbH, so the support of the PUMA by industry is thus ensured.

The chassis incorporates a key PUMA concept approach, the compact, full-length crew compartment for the entire crew, i.e. driver, gunner and commander as well as the infantry squad consisting of six soldiers
The chassis incorporates a key PUMA concept approach, the compact, full-length crew compartment for the entire crew, i.e. driver, gunner and commander as well as the infantry squad consisting of six soldiers

 

PUMA Infantry Fighting Vehicle

The PUMA combines the contrary requirements for high strategic and tactical mobility on the one hand and maximum protection and maximum fire power on the other in an optimum manner in one single high-performance weapon system, capable to react adequate and flexible at any time, at any location and at any level of intensity.

Therefore, the PUMA offers with its innovative and forward-looking solutions:

  • optimum protection against any type of threat for maximum survivability of the crew;
  • optimum armament for escalation and de-escalation in all missions;
  • rapid, strategic, global deployability and high tactical mobility;
  • network centric warfare capability;
  • sustainability under extreme climatic conditions and inadequate infrastructural conditions.

Some important technical solutions improve the PUMA’s combat effectiveness significantly:

  • integration of the German Battlefield-Management-System «FüInfoSys»;
  • integration of the German Future Soldier System «IdZ»;
  • the MUltifunctional Self-protection System (MUSS), a softkill system against guided missiles, will be integrated. Integration of a launcher for two missiles for the Anti Armour/Multi-Purpose Missile System SPIKE LR (EuroSpike).
In addition to existing 30 mm full-calibre and sub-calibre fin-stabilized ammunition, it is also possible to fire the newly developed air burst ammunition with time fuzes
In addition to existing 30 mm full-calibre and sub-calibre fin-stabilized ammunition, it is also possible to fire the newly developed air burst ammunition with time fuzes

 

Available interfaces for:

  • identification friend-foe;
  • alternative active protection systems;
  • remote controlled grenade launcher.

The PUMA achieves this firepower through the interaction of different innovative elements:

  • The main armament is the fully stabilized, automatic 30-mm Mk-30-2 ABM fitted to the remote-controlled turret. This weapon designed for target engagement on great distances also on the move.
  • 200 rounds of two types of ammunition are available ready to use. Further 200 rounds are stowed in the chassis.
  • A variety of state of the art optical and optronic vision devices enables the whole crew 360° all-around surveillance, recognition and identification of targets on long distances.
  • The hunter-killer functionality, as available in the Leopard 2 main battle tank, allows the rapid engagement of several targets within a very short time
  • PUMA receives an additional weapon system with the integration of the Anti Armour/Multi-Purpose Missile System SPIKE, provided by EuroSpike. The integration of SPIKE boosts the PUMA’s lethality significantly.
Targets identified through vision blocks can immediately be displayed to the commander for further identification by operating the target allocator
Targets identified through vision blocks can immediately be displayed to the commander for further identification by operating the target allocator

 

Performance Data

Weight, level A (Air-transportable by A400M) 31.45 t/69,335 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) 43 t/94,799 lbs
Length 7.6 m/24.9 feet
Width 3.9 m/12.8 feet
Height 3.6 m/11.8 feet
Ground clearance 0.45 m/17.72 inch
Step climb 0.8 m/2.62 feet
Gap crossing 2.5 m/8.2 feet
Fording depth 1.2 m/3.94 feet (without preparation)
Engine power 800 kW/1,073 hp
Specific power-to-weight ratio up to 25 kW/t/33.5 hp/t
Maximum speed (road), forward 43 mph/70 km/h
Maximum speed (road), reverse 18 mph/30 km/h
Crew 9 (6+3)
Chassis decoupled running gear
Turret unmanned, remote-controlled
Main armament Mk-30-2/ABM, cal. 30-mm
Main armament rounds 200 (capacity ready bin) + 200 (stowed rounds)
Secondary armament MG 4, cal. 5.56-mm
Secondary armament rounds 1000 (capacity ready bin) + 1000 (stowed rounds)
Guided missile system SPIKE LR (EuroSpike)
Powerful 10-cylinder engine delivering 800 kW at 4250 rpm
Powerful 10-cylinder engine delivering 800 kW at 4250 rpm
Ground Forces

Interceptors Ashore

Lockheed Martin is studying adding an Anti-Air Warfare (AAW) to Aegis Ashore Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) sites, reported Sam LaGrone, USNI News editor. The studies are not in advance of a new program of record for modifications of the installations and are at the behest of the Missile Defense Agency, said Jim Sheridan, Director of AEGIS development for Lockheed Martin in a briefing to reporters ahead of the Navy League Sea-Air-Space Exposition 2015.

Aegis Ashore provides a proven, affordable solution to expand the protection of the Aegis Combat System to inland areas
Aegis Ashore provides a proven, affordable solution to expand the protection of the Aegis Combat System to inland areas

«There’s been some detailed discussion over the past couple of years about the possibility of reconstituting or adding an AAW capability to the Aegis Ashore configuration», Jim Sheridan told reporters. «We’ve been turned on to do some studies on what it would take to do that going forward in the future».

Aegis Ashore – created in conjunction with Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and the Navy – uses the SPY-1D radar and the Mk-41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) tubes native to the Navy’s Arleigh Burke guided missile destroyers (DDG-51) to detect and launch Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) interceptors to counter ballistic missile threats.

Since most of the hardware is the same, Jim Sheridan said it would not be difficult to reconfigure the installations in Poland and Romania: «There is no program of record to reconstitute or add AAW capabilities to the Aegis Ashore configuration, but they’re just asking in the event in the future, what it would take to do that. We think it would not be difficult because that’s the same configuration we’re delivering to destroyers today».

Aegis Ashore is the land-based component of the Ballistic Missile Defense System and will use the same components that will be used onboard the Navy’s new construction Aegis BMD Destroyers
Aegis Ashore is the land-based component of the Ballistic Missile Defense System and will use the same components that will be used onboard the Navy’s new construction Aegis BMD Destroyers

It is said in The NavyTimes that a 430-acre (174 hectare) Aegis Ashore facility will be operational by year’s end in Deveselu, Romania, and manned by about 200 U.S. service members, government civilians and support contractors. It will be armed with SM-3 IB interceptors. A second site planned for Poland, scheduled to become operational in 2018, will be armed with SM-3 IIA interceptors.

The SM-3 Cooperative Development Program focuses on joint U.S. and Japan development of a 21-inch diameter variant of the SM-3 missile, referred to as SM-3 Block IIA. Aegis BMD 5.1 will integrate the SM-3 Block IIA missile into the combat system. Data links will also be improved to enable Engage on Remote track data. Deployment begins in 2018.

SM-3 Block IIA guided missile development completed Critical Design Review and successfully conducted a Propulsion Test Vehicle (PTV) flight test. The PTV round consisted of a live booster with an inert 21-inch diameter upper-stage assembly encanisted in a Vertical Launch System canister.

The deckhouse for the Aegis Ashore system at the Pacific Missile Range Facility. This is the test asset for the Aegis Ashore system that will be emplaced in Romania and Poland (Missile Defense Agency Photo)
The deckhouse for the Aegis Ashore system at the Pacific Missile Range Facility. This is the test asset for the Aegis Ashore system that will be emplaced in Romania and Poland (Missile Defense Agency Photo)

 

Aegis Ashore

Aegis Ashore is a land-based capability of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System to address the evolving ballistic missile security environment. The re-locatable deckhouse is equipped with the Aegis BMD weapon system and Standard Missile-3, with upgrades being phased during this decade. Each Aegis BMD upgrade provides increased capability for countering ballistic missile threats. In addition to Aegis BMD ships, Aegis Ashore is part of Phased Adaptive Approach (PAA) Phases II and III.

 

Development

Uses the same combat system elements (AN/SPY-1 Radar, Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence systems, Vertical Launching System, computer processors, display system, power supplies and cooling) that are used onboard the Navy’s new construction Aegis BMD Destroyers.

Conducting flight tests at the Aegis Ashore Missile Defense Test Complex at Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) in Kauai, Hawaii. Each test will increase the operational realism and complexity of targets and scenarios and will be witnessed by Navy and Department of Defense test agents.

Integrates advances in sensor technology such as launch of an SM-3 missile in response to remote sensor data.

Defeats short- to intermediate-range ballistic missile threats.

Incorporates future capability upgrades in association with Aegis BMD Program of Record.

The Aegis Ashore deckhouse during a Missile Defense Agency and U.S. Navy test from Kauai, Hawaii
The Aegis Ashore deckhouse during a Missile Defense Agency and U.S. Navy test from Kauai, Hawaii

 

Aegis Ashore Missile Defense Test Complex (AAMDTC)

The AAMDTC at the PMRF is a test and evaluation center in the development of the PAA. The test complex leverages the Aegis BMD Weapon System and the new SM-3 Block IB missile for PAA Phase II deployment, as well as, supports deployment decisions and upgrades of future PAA Phase capabilities.

The AAMDTC fired the first land-based SM-3 Block IB missile in May 2014.

 

Deployment

In 2015, Aegis Ashore will be installed in Romania as part of the PAA Phase II. This deployed capability will use Aegis BMD 5.0 CU and SM-3 Block IB to provide ballistic missile coverage of southern Europe.

In 2018, Aegis Ashore will be installed in Poland, as part of the PAA Phase III. This deployed capability will use Aegis BMD 5.1 and SM-3 Blocks IB and IIA to support increased additional defense of Europe.

 

Future Capabilities

Engagement of longer range ballistic missiles.

 

Land-based Aegis Ashore, as part of Phased Adaptive Approach (PAA), will use the same components as those onboard the Navy’s new construction Aegis BMD Destroyers

 

Ground Forces

American Paladin

According to Daniel Wasserbly, Jane’s Defence Weekly correspondent, the U.S. Army has begun receiving its first production-model M109A7 Paladin Integrated Management (called PIM) Self-Propelled Howitzers (SPHs) and held a ceremony on 9 April to mark the new system’s arrival.

Extended range: 30 km/18.6 miles with High Explosive – Rocket Assisted Projectile (HE RAP) and M203 propellant
Extended range: 30 km/18.6 miles with High Explosive – Rocket Assisted Projectile (HE RAP) and M203 propellant

The army and prime contractor BAE Systems are in the process of finalising a Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) plan that is expected to include 66 vehicle sets (a set is one SPH and one M992A3 CAT, Carrier, Ammunition, Tracked vehicle) plus an extra SPH for testing, Mark Signorelli, BAE Systems’ vice-president and general manager of combat vehicles, told IHS Jane’s on 8 April. The army could buy as many as 580 sets, but the actual procurement quantity could be slightly lower and depends on funding.

For fiscal year 2016 (FY 2016) the service requested Paladin PIM programme funding to support final developmental testing with $152.3 million and to buy 30 PIM LRIP systems with $273.9 million. Mark Signorelli said a full-rate production decision is expected in February 2017 after qualification and reliability testing is completed, and following an operational test slated for the second half of 2016.

PIM is to replace the legacy M109A6 Paladin howitzers and M992A2 ammunition carriers with a more advanced system, while incorporating drive train and suspension components common to the M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). The programme was approved to begin initial production in October 2014 following an extended testing period after the first seven prototypes were delivered in 2011.

Mark Signorelli described those prototypes as «generation one» and noted that several upgrades and capabilities were added to change the configuration over time, including new armour designs for heightened protection and design changes around the gun drives and rammer. «Very few of them were individually significant», Signorelli said, although the changes took time and added testing qualifications.

The PIM retains the legacy 155-mm Paladin’s cannon, but it is fitted on a new chassis based on the Bradley. The two vehicles share a 600 hp Cummins V903 diesel engine, a suspension, and other components.

Aside from the chassis, the PIM models also have a new electric ramming system and a 600 V on-board power system that builds on technologies developed during the Non-Line-of-Sight Cannon (NLOS-C) programme and is intended to ensure the PIM will have enough space, weight, and power-cooling growth potential for future upgrades.

Max rate of fire: 4 rounds/minute for three minutes
Max rate of fire: 4 rounds/minute for three minutes

 

Paladin Integrated Management

M109A7 Self-Propelled Howitzer

The new M109A7 Self-Propelled Howitzer and its associated M992A3 Carrier, Ammunition, Tracked (CAT) vehicle enhance their combat-proven successors’ – the M109A6 Paladin and M992A2 Field Artillery Ammunition Support Vehicle’s (FAASV) – reliability, maintainability, performance, responsiveness, and lethality. Additionally, they provide increased commonality with the Bradley Fighting Vehicle (BFV) of the Armored Brigade Combat Team (ABCT) with significant built-in growth potential in terms of available space, weight and electrical power.

 

Commonality

The M109A7 chassis features a power pack, drive train, track, and suspension components common with the BFV, improving supportability and reducing the ABCT’s logistical footprint.

 

Responsiveness

The M109A7’s «shoot and scoot» capability protects the crew from counterbattery fire by means of an onboard position navigation system and fire control system capable of executing missions digitally and via secure voice command. With an upgraded, 675 hp/503 kW electronically controlled version of the BFV standard V903 engine, coupled with an improved HMPT-800 transmission, the M109A7 has faster acceleration for rapid displacement, and the ability to keep pace with the maneuver forces it supports.

From the move, the M109A7 can receive a fire mission, compute firing data, select and occupy a firing position, transition from traveling configuration to firing configuration, and point its cannon, and fire within 60 seconds – all with first round fire-for-effect accuracy. The M109A7 operates day or night, in all weather conditions, providing timely and accurate fires with a range in excess of 30 km/18.6 miles.

 

Survivability

The M109A7 offers increased survivability, because the crew remains inside the vehicle throughout the mission. Along with the «shoot and scoot» capability, the M109A7 features an Automatic Fire Extinguishing System (AFES), Common Remote Operated Weapons System (CROWS), and enhanced applique armor.

 

Operational Availability

Hull, turret, suspension, and automotive system upgrades increase system reliability. The M109A7 incorporates an onboard computer with comprehensive diagnostics programs that rapidly pinpoint equipment issues early for ease of maintenance while improving system availability.

Sustained rate of fire: 1 round/minute (dependent on thermal warning devices)
Sustained rate of fire: 1 round/minute (dependent on thermal warning devices)

 

Specifications

Gross vehicle weight 80,000 lbs/36,288 kg
Crew 4
Engine 675 hp/503 kW
Fuel tank 143 gallons/541 liters
Speed 38 mph/61 km/h
Estimated cruising range 186 miles/300 km
Slope 60%
Side slope 40%
Trench crossing 72 inches/1.8 m
Maximum fording depth 42 inches/1.0 m
Overall length 382 inches/9.7 m
Width 154 inches/3.9 m
Height 129 inches/3.3 m
Howitzer/gun mount M284 cannon/M182A1 mount
Main generator 70 kW; 600 vdc/28 vdc
Reserve power >50%

 

Cummins VTA903

A key design consideration is the ability to operate with rapid, easy movement across almost any terrain, displaying much of the mobility of a main battle tank.

While the engine needs to be powerful and compact to meet this requirement, it also needs to offer exceptional reliability to ensure maximum availability of these high-value battlefield assets. The heavy-duty V903 engine is purpose developed by Cummins for these highly demanding applications – and during combat situations the outstanding abilities of this unique engine have been fully proven.

The V903 has also proved an ideal power solution for one of the most important elements on the battlefield – the tracked Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), typified by the M2 Bradley together with derivatives such as the M3 Bradley Cavalry Fighting Vehicle (CVF).

Equipped with 600 hp (447 kW) of Cummins heavy-duty power, the Bradley can maintain progress with main battle tanks right at the forefront of the action. Very high power-toweight ratio enables these vehicles to incorporate heavier armour and more firepower, while the inherent reliability of the engine is a major advantage during high intensity operations.

 

Engine Specifications

Model V903
Cylinders V8
Capacity 14.8 L
Valves 32
Maximum Power 800 hp @ 2800 rpm/597 kW
Max Torque 2362 Nm @ 2200 rpm
Weight (dry) 1,271kg
Engine Cummins VTA903
Engine Cummins VTA903
Ground Forces

Generation 3 HEL

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), a leading manufacturer of Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems solutions, announced (8 April, 2015) that an independent measurement team contracted by the U.S. Government has completed beam quality and power measurements of GA-ASI’s Generation 3 High Energy Laser System (HEL) using the Joint Technology Office (JTO) Government Diagnostic System (GDS).

The capability to shoot down tactical targets such as surface-to-air missiles and rockets will be demonstrated
The capability to shoot down tactical targets such as surface-to-air missiles and rockets will be demonstrated

«These measurements confirm the exceptional beam quality of the Generation 3 HEL, the next-generation leader in electrically-pumped lasers», said Claudio Pereida, executive vice president, Mission Systems, GA-ASI.

The new laser represents the third generation of technology originally developed under the High Energy Liquid Laser Area Defense System (HELLADS, Generation 1) program. The goal of the HELLADS program was to develop a high-energy laser weapon system (150 kW) with an order of magnitude reduction in weight compared to existing laser systems. The Generation 3 Laser employs a number of upgrades resulting in improved beam quality, increased electrical to optical efficiency, and reduced size and weight.

General Atomics’ third-generation tactical laser weapon module is sized to be carried on its Avenger unmanned aircraft
General Atomics’ third-generation tactical laser weapon module is sized to be carried on its Avenger unmanned aircraft

The recently certified Generation 3 laser assembly is very compact at only 1.3×0.4×0.5 meters. The system is powered by a compact Lithium-ion battery supply designed to demonstrate a deployable architecture for tactical platforms.

The Generation 3 HEL tested is a unit cell for the Tactical Laser Weapon Module (TLWM) currently under development. Featuring a flexible, deployable architecture, the TLWM is designed for use on land, sea, and airborne platforms and will be available in four versions at the 50, 75, 150, and 300-kilowatt laser output levels.

Enemy surface-to-air threats to manned and unmanned aircraft have become increasingly sophisticated, creating a need for rapid and effective response to this growing category of threats
Enemy surface-to-air threats to manned and unmanned aircraft have become increasingly sophisticated, creating a need for rapid and effective response to this growing category of threats

The GDS was employed by an independent measurement team to evaluate the beam quality of the Generation 3 system over a range of operating power and run time. According to JTO’s Jack Slater, «The system produced the best beam quality from a high energy laser that we have yet measured with the GDS. We were impressed to see that the beam quality remained constant with increasing output power and run-time».

With run time limited only by the magazine depth of the battery system, beam quality was constant throughout the entire run at greater than 30 seconds. These measurements confirm that the exceptional beam quality of this new generation of electrically pumped lasers is maintained above the 50-kilowatt level.

Following this evaluation, the independent team will use the GDS again to conduct beam quality measurements of the GA-ASI HELLADS Demonstrator Laser Weapon System (DLWS). The HELLADS DLWS includes a 150-kilowatt class laser with integrated power and thermal management.

Features/Benefits:

  • lightweight and compact;
  • increased engagement range;
  • counters tactical targets.
The HELLADS programme involves development of a 150 kW laser weapon system to counter ground threats such as RAM and surface-to-air missiles
The HELLADS programme involves development of a 150 kW laser weapon system to counter ground threats such as RAM and surface-to-air missiles
Ground Forces

Armoured Vehicles

The French Army is scheduled to receive the first three of 95 up-armoured VBCI (Véhicule Blindé de Combat d’Infanterie) 8×8 armoured vehicles next month, said Victor Barreira, Jane’s Defence Weekly reporter. The vehicles will be 29-tonne VCI (Véhicule de Combat d’Infanterie) Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) variants modified to a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 32 tonnes with improved protection against improvised explosive devices.

Armed with a 25-mm 25M811 automatic cannon
Armed with a 25-mm 25M811 automatic cannon

A contract for the development of the VCI configuration was awarded in December 2010 by the French Direction Générale de l´Armement (DGA) arms procurement agency to the vehicle’s manufacturers, Nexter Systems and Renault Trucks Defense, with contracts for the modification placed in June 2013 for a first batch of 48 vehicles and in September 2014 for another batch of 47 vehicles. Qualification of the prototype by the DGA was declared on 24 September 2014. Deliveries will be completed in June 2017, although further VCIs are expected to be modified.

The order for 630 VBCIs originally purchased to replace the French Army’s AMX-10P tracked vehicles was recently completed with delivery of the last vehicle on 13 March. The programme was concluded with delivery of the last of 520 VCI variants; 110 VPC (Véhicule Poste de Commandement) command post variants were inducted up to mid-2013. The first VBCI was delivered in 2008.

The VCI variant (which itself comes in two configurations: the Rang infantry-carrying version and the Eryx anti-armour missile version) features Nexter Systems’ Tarask turret armed with a 25-mm 25M811 automatic cannon, while the VPC variant is fitted out with the Airbus DS SIR (Système d’Information Régimentaire) information system and FN Herstal ARROWS 300 (Advanced Reconnaissance & Remotely Operated Weapon System) remote weapon station.

VBCI has an unrivalled overall survivability: ballistic, mines and IED protection, «Soft Kill» systems
VBCI has an unrivalled overall survivability: ballistic, mines and IED protection, «Soft Kill» systems

The VBCIs are also being fitted with an integration kit to work with the Sagem FELIN (Fantassin à Équipement et Liaisons Intégrés) soldier system, with work scheduled to be complete by late 2015.

As part of the French Army’s SCORPION (Synergie du COntact Renforcé par la Polyvalence et l’InfovalorisatiON) modernisation programme, a mid-life update of the VBCI is expected in due course with the aim of improving the vehicle’s existing functions, integrating new functions and new technologies, and managing any potential future obsolescence issues.

Current plans include integrating an anti-tank missile capability into the Tarask turret, along with adding the SICS (Système d’Information et de Combat SCORPION) information system, CONTACT (COmmunications Numérisées TACtiques et de ThéâtrE) tactical communications system, enhanced optronics, vetronics, and new ammunition.

From high-intensity combat missions to peacekeeping operations, the VBCI keeps an entire infantry section safe. VCBI is «Combat Proven» and is currently deployed in operation. VBCI represents the best balanced solution between protection, firepower, mobility and payload. VBCI has an unrivalled overall survivability: ballistic, mines and IED (Improvised Explosive Devices) protection, «Soft Kill» systems. It is fitted with CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear) equipment. In the IFV variant, VBCI is equipped with medium caliber turrets: 20-mm RWS (Remote Weapon Station), 25-mm, 30-mm, 40-mm. With its mobility performance, its exceptional manoeuvrability and its high firepower, the VBCI is remarkably efficient in combat. VBCI is in service with the French Army.

SICS (Système d'Information et de Combat SCORPION) information system, CONTACT (COmmunications Numérisées TACtiques et de ThéâtrE) tactical communications system
SICS (Système d’Information et de Combat SCORPION) information system, CONTACT (COmmunications Numérisées TACtiques et de ThéâtrE) tactical communications system

 

Specifications

Length <8 m/<26.2 feet
Width <3 m/<9.8 feet
Height <2.5 m/<8.2 feet
Gross Vehicle Weight 32 tons
Empty Weight 19 tons
Payload 13 tons
Engine Intercooler diesel engine 6 cylinders in line
Maximum power 405 kW/550 hp
Max torque 2,450 Nm
Gearbox ZF 7HP902, fully automatic, 7 forward and 2 reverse gear
Drop box Mechanical with 3 shafts
Transfer box Mechanical with 2 shafts
Axles (×4) Interwheel differential lock, Longitudinal clutching (6×8 – 8×8)
Wheels (×8) Independent wheels, Wheel reducer, Tyres 395/90 R22 or 1400 R20, Run flat device
Suspensions Mixed oleo pneumatic, Double wishbones independent suspensions, Combined hydro-pneumatic spring and shock absorber
Brakes Full air, with 2 independent lines (EBS), Anti-lock Braking system (ABS), 8 pneumatic disc brakes, Parking brake and emergency brake, Central tires inflation system (CTIS)
Steering Hydraulic power assistance featuring 2 circuits and 2 pumps, Additional steering system (ASS)
Multiplexed electronic network Based on civilian components, Compliant with EMC Standards, CAN BUS system
Centralized dashboard Alerts management, Diagnostic system
Carrying capacity Up to 14 pax
Maximum speed >62 mph/100 km/h
Maximum range 900 km/559 miles
Gradient 60%
Side slope 30%
Step 0.7 m/2.3 feet
Trench 2 m/6.5 feet
Fording 1.7 m/5.5 feet

 

Renault Trucks Defense 8×8 driveline is designed for combat vehicles up to 32 tonnes (GVW, Gross Vehicle Weight). This high mobility solution is «Combat Proven» with the French VBCI Infantry Combat Vehicle

 

Ground Forces

SOCOM buggy

According to Joe Gould, DefenseNews correspondent, US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is making a sole-source purchase of 2,050 light tactical All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) from Polaris Industries, according to a Monday announcement.

Polaris, whose core business is recreational vehicles, has several ATVs modified for military operations
Polaris, whose core business is recreational vehicles, has several ATVs modified for military operations

The contract, to be awarded in June, includes 1,750 of the Medina, Minnesota-based company’s four-seat MRZR-4 and 300 of its two-seat MRZR-2.

SOCOM indicated it selected the vehicles because they can be transported inside the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey, Boeing MH-47 special operations helicopter and Sikorsky MH-53 Pave Low, and that they can be dropped from the air.

The contract supersedes a five-year blanket purchase agreement SOCOM and Polaris signed in 2013, which had an estimated value of $9.5 million per year.

Polaris, whose core business is recreational vehicles, has several ATVs modified for military operations. It unveiled its first purpose-built military vehicle last year, the DAGOR, which can transport a nine-person infantry squad or carry 3,250 pounds of payload.

The contract supersedes a five-year blanket purchase agreement SOCOM and Polaris signed in 2013
The contract supersedes a five-year blanket purchase agreement SOCOM and Polaris signed in 2013

 

Specifications

MRZR-2 MRZR-4
Engine Type Polaris ProStar 900 4-Stroke DOHC Twin Cylinder Polaris ProStar 900 4-Stroke DOHC Twin Cylinder
Displacement 875cc 875cc
Fuel System Electronic Fuel Injection Electronic Fuel Injection
Horsepower 88 hp 88 hp
Top Speed 60 mph/96 km/h 60 mph/96 km/h
Transmission/Final Drive Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT): P/R/N/L/H Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT): P/R/N/L/H
Drive System On-demand True All-Wheel Drive (AWD) On-demand True All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Engine Braking System/ Active Descent Control Standard/Standard Standard/Standard
Front Suspension Dual A-Arm with 12.5 inch/ 31.75 cm travel Dual A-Arm with 12.5 inch/ 31.75 cm travel
Rear Suspension Trailing Arm with 12.5 inch/ 31.75 cm travel Trailing Arm with 12.5 inch/ 31.75 cm travel
Shocks Fox Podium X 2.5 (comp adjust/res.) Fox Podium X 2.5 (comp adjust/res.)
Front/Rear Brakes 4-Wh eel Hydraulic Disc with Dual-Bore Front and Single-Bore Rear Calipers 4-Wh eel Hydraulic Disc with Dual-Bore Front and Single-Bore Rear Calipers
Parking Brake Park in Transmission Park in Transmission
Front Tires MOAPA AT/26 × 9-14 DWT MOAPA AT/26 × 9-14 DWT
Rear Tires MOAPA AT/26 × 9-14 DWT MOAPA AT/26 × 9-14 DWT
Wheels Bead lock Bead lock
Wheelbase 81.4 inch/206.8 cm 107.4 inch/272.8 cm
Dry Weight 1,611 lbs/730.7 kg 1,912 lbs/867.3 kg
Overall Vehicle Size (L × W × H) 115.4 × 60 × 73.6 inch/293.1 × 152.4 × 187 cm 141.5 × 60 × 73.8 inch/359.4 × 152.4 × 187.5 cm
Height w/Collapsed Roll Cage 60 inch/152.4 cm 60 inch/152.4 cm
Ground Clearance 11.2 inch/28.4 cm 11.2 inch/28.4 cm
Fuel Capacity 7.25 GAL/27.4 L 7.25 GAL/27.4 L
Bed Box Dimensions (L × W × H) 33.75 × 45.75 × 20.5 inch/ 85.73 × 116.2 × 52.1 cm 33.75 × 45.75 × 20.5 inch/ 85.73 × 116.2 × 52.1 cm
Front/Rear Rack or Box Capacity 500 lbs/226.8 kg 500 lbs/226.8 kg
Payload Capacity 1,000 lbs/453.6 kg 1,000 lbs/453.6 kg
Passengers 2 (4 with optional rearward facing seats) 4 (6 with optional rearward facing seats)
Litter Capacity 1 2
Hitch Towing Rating 1,500 lbs/680.4 kg 1,500 lbs/680.4 kg
Hitch/Type Standard/2″ Receiver Standard/2″ Receiver
Seating Modular seating with optional rearward facing seats Modular seating with optional rearward facing seats
Seatbelts Four-point harnesses with quick release latch Four-point harnesses with quick release latch
Keyless Ignition Standard Standard
Tilt Steer Wheel/Passenger Grab Bar Standard Standard
Aircraft Tie-downs Front and rear of vehicle Front and rear of vehicle
Cargo System Polaris Metal Racks with Quick Rail System Polaris Metal Racks with Quick Rail System
Winch Polaris 3,500 lbs winch Polaris 3,500 lbs winch
Lighting White LED (High/Low), blackout drive and OEM IR Light wire harness White LED (High/Low), blackout drive and OEM IR Light wire harness
Electronic Power Steering Standard Standard
Color Military Tan Military Tan
Instrumentation Digital Gauge, Speedometer, Odometer, Tachometer, Tripmeter, Hour Meter, Clock, Gear Indicator, Fuel Gauge, Hi-Temp/Low-Batt Lights, DC Outlets (2) Digital Gauge, Speedometer, Odometer, Tachometer, Tripmeter, Hour Meter, Clock, Gear Indicator, Fuel Gauge, Hi-Temp/Low-Batt Lights, DC Outlets (3)

 

Light Tactical All-Terrain Vehicles

Ground Forces

Birth of KANT

Germany and France are going to develop the Main Battle Tank of the XXI century. According to DefenseNews, French Nexter Group and German family-controlled Krauss Maffei-Wegmann are on track to forge a cross-border link up in the land weapons sector this year. The French state-owned company said: «On July 1, 2014, the shareholders of the two French and German companies signed a memorandum of understanding for an equally owned alliance. This project is progressing and should produce concrete results in 2015».

The Leopard 2A7+ was developed and qualified for the new tasks of the German Armed Forces. The system components, optimized to protect the crew, prove their worth, currently being in use in Afghanistan with NATO's Partner Canada
The Leopard 2A7+ was developed and qualified for the new tasks of the German Armed Forces. The system components, optimized to protect the crew, prove their worth, currently being in use in Afghanistan with NATO’s Partner Canada

On the business front, the Direction Générale de l’Armement (Defence Procurement Agency, DGA) has awarded a contract worth some €330 million ($349.4 million) to Nexter Systems to upgrade 200 Leclerc tanks and 18 tank recovery vehicles with delivery from 2020, the procurement office said in a statement March 12.

Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian has written into his 2015 agenda an agreement for the joint venture deal in July or August, an announcement which caught some in industry by surprise. The proposed joint holding company is named KMW and Nexter Together, or KANT. The Bode family controls KMW through the Wegmann firm.

An accord in the summer, however, seems unlikely as there is a political drag effect due to Nexter’s privatization being caught up in an attempt to liberalize the ailing French economy. There is no problem on the industrial front as Nexter and KMW opened up their books for due diligence and that detailed examination of their businesses will lead to a valuation of the two companies. That scrutiny is going ahead smoothly even if the conclusion might miss the April 1 deadline, an industry source said. The due diligence allows the two shareholders to negotiate the valuation and whether amounts must be paid to bring each side to the 50:50 share in the holding company, noted Pierre Tran, DefenseNews reporter.

The joint holding company will take charge of commercial and product launch strategy, while industrial production will stay with the operating companies and under domestic management
The joint holding company will take charge of commercial and product launch strategy, while industrial production will stay with the operating companies and under domestic management

On the political front, France must privatize Nexter to allow the company to form the planned joint holding company with KMW. However, that will likely take longer than expected as the privatization has been written into a wide-ranging draft legislation proposed by Economy Minister Emmanuel Macron, a former investment banker who seeks to inject more competition into the domestic economy. The proposed Macron law has run into strong political resistance from both the Union pour un Mouvement Populaire conservative party and left wing of the Socialist Party. That will likely delay the joint venture agreement to the autumn, the source said.

KMW Chairman Frank Haun on January 14 told the French National Assembly defense committee the alliance would work over the next five years developing a tank – whether it be called Leopard 3, Leleo or Leoclerc – and the new heavy armored vehicle could be delivered 2025-2030 to replace the Leclerc and Leopard 2.

The Russians are working hard on tank development, and Nexter and KMW could exchange their «very interesting» technology to build replacements for the Leclerc and Leopard, Frank Haun said. Fully automated artillery, smart munitions and laser weapons are among the new weapons on which the KANT alliance would work, he added.

Nexter Chairman Philippe Burtin told the committee the SCORPION (Synergie du COntact Renforcé par la Polyvalence et l’InfovalorisatiON) Army modernization program will generate an average annual €200 million of work. The companies will have five years to see if the alliance works and if not, they can back out, Macron said.

The contract to upgrade the Leclerc tank was signed March 5
The contract to upgrade the Leclerc tank was signed March 5
Ground Forces

NATO Standards

UkrOboronProm is ready to upgrade about 300 tanks T-72, which are now in army reserve, to meet NATO standards. According to UkrOboronProm Deputy Director General of Operations Yurii Pashchenko, modernized units can solve some crucial problems of Ukrainian army.

The concern is willing to modernize the old Ukrainian T-72 tanks and upgrade them up to the PT-91 Twardy standard
The concern is willing to modernize the old Ukrainian T-72 tanks and upgrade them up to the PT-91 Twardy standard

During round table «Problems of Ukraine’s military-industrial complex reforming», Yurii Pashchenko mentioned that modernized, in accordance with international standards, military equipment will help to further strengthen Ukrainian army, which needs fast and efficient rearming today.

«Tank T-72 is not in service of Ukrainian Army: There are almost 300 of these tanks in Ukraine and we suggested to Ministry of Defence to upgrade them up to tanks PT-91 – Polish main battle tanks – to meet NATO standards», – stressed Yurii Pashchenko. He also noted that Polish side gave Ukrainian military a chance to test PT-91 samples in their proving ground.

According to Defence24.com (Poland), Ukrainian Armed Forces fighting in Donbass use mostly the T-64B tanks, some of which have been modernized up to the T-64BM standard. It was in February this year, when information has been released that training of the reserve forces in the Kharkov area would involve both the T-64B, as well as the T-72 tanks. According to the earlier reports, plans had been made to deliver some T-72 tanks to the units of the National Guard.

The T-72B tanks are being widely used by the pro-Russian forces. The rebels also use the T-72B3 variant which is the latest derivative of that tank, utilized by the Russian military.

T-72AG upgraded tank (Manufacturer: State Enterprise «Kyiv armored plant») is combat tracked vehicle, which has powerful rocket-artillery armaments, reliable armored protection and high maneuverability. It is intended for resolving of wide scope of tasks and is capable to engage tanks and other armored objects of enemy, manpower, anti-tank and artillery means etc.

Almost 300 T-72 tanks are being stored within the Ukrainian territory, however they are currently not being actively used by the Army
Almost 300 T-72 tanks are being stored within the Ukrainian territory, however they are currently not being actively used by the Army

 

Main Specifications T-72AG

Weight of tank with combat unit 44 t
Crew 3
Specific power 19.53 hp/t
Specific pressure 0.877 kgf/cm2
Movement speed:
maximum on highway 60 km/h/37 mph
average on dirt road 30-40 km/h/19-25 mph
Cruising range:
on highway 700 km/435 miles
on dirt road 460-650 km/286-404 miles
Engine:
mark V-84-1
power 840 hp/626 kW
Armament
Gun:
mark 2А46М, with thermal cover
caliber 125-mm/4.92 inch
guided missile 9М119
firing range from 100 to 5,000 m/from 328 to 16,404 feet
Maximum firing range:
with APT and  APIT projectiles 4,000 m/13,123 feet
with HEI and FT projectiles 4,000 m/13,123 feet
with HE projectiles 5,000 m/16,404 feet
Coaxial machinegun with grenade:
mark PKT
caliber 12.7-mm/0.50 inch
Anti-aircraft gun:
mark NSV-12,7
caliber 12.7-mm/0.50 inch
Guided armament system 9К119 «Refleks»
Effective firing range from 100 to 5,000 m/from 328 to 16,404 feet
Rate of fire of the system 3 rounds per min
Sighting system 1А43, composed of:
sight range-finder 1G46
scope of measuring of range finder 400-5,000 m/1,312-16,404 feet
Ballistic computer 1V517M
Commander’s sighting complex PNK-4S «Agat», composed of:
sight TKN-4S
Aiming range:
day 4,000 m/13,123 feet
night 800 m/2,625 feet
Night sighting complex ТО1-КО1 «Buran», composed of:
sight TPN-4
sighting range 1,400 m/4,593 feet
Fire control system:
mark ZPU 1ETs29 «Irtysh»
type stabilized in vertical and horizontal planes
Automatic loader:
type electro-mechanical
capacity 22 rounds
loading time 8 sec
Armament stabilizer:
mark 2E42
type biplanar
In-built ERA system
Communication means, composed of:
radio station R-173
radio receiver R-173P
tank intercom system R-174
Polish side gave Ukrainian military a chance to test PT-91 samples in their proving ground
Polish side gave Ukrainian military a chance to test PT-91 samples in their proving ground
Ground Forces

COBRA attack

At this year’s IDEX Exhibition, RUAG Defence, the leading Swiss technology group and partner for international armed forces, proudly launches its latest innovation the 120-mm Mortar System COBRA. Cobras possess agility, precision and effectiveness and this is reflected in RUAG’s 120-mm Mortar System through latest technologies, maximum flexibility and operation simplicity.

Electrical drives make the system highly accurate, while ballistic computing enables MRSI firing (Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact)
Electrical drives make the system highly accurate, while ballistic computing enables MRSI firing (Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact)

RUAG has drawn on over 40 years of experience and innovation in artillery to design the COBRA. The COBRA is a modular system configured to suit individual requirements and comes equipped with a semi-automatic loader system. The loading machine secures quick and safe loading in any situation and in the most extreme weather conditions day and night.

The RUAG COBRA Mortar System features fully electronic drives, allowing enhanced shoot-and-scoot capabilities (alternatively, fire-and-displace or fire-and-move) with consistent reliability and maximum accuracy over its effective range of 9 km/5.6 miles. Thanks to its innovative and compact design, the COBRA can easily be integrated into any light-weight tracked or wheeled vehicle platform.

The RUAG COBRA Mortar System incorporates RUAG’s ballistic computing allowing automatic gun laying and Multi-Round Single Impact (MRSI) capabilities. The system is designed to fire any standard 120-mm ammunition including latest generation smart ammunition.

The COBRA is available with a complete suite of quality training solutions and logistic services based on RUAG’s all-round approach to artillery.

COBRA protects users against incorrect operation or double loading when operating at night or in extreme weather
COBRA protects users against incorrect operation or double loading when operating at night or in extreme weather

 

Technology facts

Range:                                 7 to 9 km/4.3 to 5.6 miles

Caliber:                               120 mm

Barrel length:                  1,600 mm/63 inch – 2,000 mm/79 inch

Ammunition:                   1,200 mm/47 inch

Weight:

1,200 kg/2,646 lbs (without loading machine)

1,350 kg/2,976 lbs (with loading machine)

Recoil Force:                   30 tonnes/30 milliseconds

Shoot of first round:   <60 seconds

Scoot from firing:         immediate

The compact design keeps things simple for users and allows easy integration into a wide variety of vehicle types
The compact design keeps things simple for users and allows easy integration into a wide variety of vehicle types

 

http://www.ruag-cobra-mortar-system.com/

The 120-mm RUAG COBRA Mortar System

 

Ground Forces

SCORPION programme

The French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) notified Nexter Systems of the Leclerc tank renovation contract. This order constitutes the third operation launched by the French Ministry of Defence under the Synergie du COntact Renforcé par la Polyvalence et l’InfovalorisatiON (SCORPION) programme intended to modernise the French Army’s contact forces. Valued at approximately €330 million, the contract provides for the delivery of 200 «Renovated Leclerc» tanks and 18 «Renovated DCL» (Dépanneur du Char Leclerc – Leclerc tank repair) recovery vehicles from 2020.

The French army’s Leclerc main battle tank is one of the most advanced in the world, but despite a previous upgrade now requires a more radical modernization to keep it operationally effective until 2040 (French MoD photo)
The French army’s Leclerc main battle tank is one of the most advanced in the world, but despite a previous upgrade now requires a more radical modernization to keep it operationally effective until 2040 (French MoD photo)

The planned renovation work will enable the Leclerc to make the best use of its fire power and mobility within future SCORPION Joint Tactical Groups (GTIA). Thanks to the development of specific interfaces for the new COmmunications Numériques TACtiques et de ThéâtrE (CONTACT) tactical radio system and the Système d’Information et de Commandement SCORPION (SICS), it will be able to effectively network with all components of future SCORPION GTIAs. Moreover, the upgrade of its protection through the development of specific armour kits will enable the Leclerc tank to deal more effectively with new threats, such as improvised explosive devices.

A 3rd generation tank with a high degree of automation and diagnostic assistance, the Leclerc tank currently gives the French land forces «first entry» capability as part of an international coalition. The renovation operation launched aims to maintain this capacity beyond 2040.

The Leclerc is equipped with a CN120-26 120-mm smoothbore cannon
The Leclerc is equipped with a CN120-26 120-mm smoothbore cannon

 

Leclerc main battle tank

Mission

The Leclerc Main Battle Tank (MBT) enables armoured units to fight, defeat, and survive against an out-numbering enemy. Its ability to fire on-the-move, high firing rate and firepower, and exceptional mobility enables it to impose its rhythm on the enemy. It engages the enemy at a speed on 31 mph/50 km/h on all-terrains. It fights day and night, under all weather conditions and in contaminated zones.

Its all-purpose modular armouring, «hunter killer» function, stealth, agility and engagement distance award it an unequalled survival capacity.

The Leclerc has an eight-cylinder V8X-1500 1,500 hp Hyperbar diesel engine
The Leclerc has an eight-cylinder V8X-1500 1,500 hp Hyperbar diesel engine

 

Technical Characteristics

Requiring a crew of only 3 men thanks to its automatic loading system, its weight in combat order is less than 58 tons in its latest version and its nominal power rated at l,500 hp/1,118 kW. Fitted with hydropneumatic suspensions, its maximum speed is 45 mph/72 km/h on the road and 34 mph/55 km/h on all-terrains. Its main weapon is the standard NATO 120-mm/52 caliber and it is equipped with a coaxial 12.7-mm machine gun, as well as a 7.62-mm roof machine gun.

It is equipped with a commander stabilized 360° panoramic sight, laser rangefinder, day channel and thermal camera (in its latest versions) and a stabilized mantlet gunner sight with thermal camera, laser rangefinder, day channel and video channel.

Nexter Systems originally built 254 Leclerc MBTs for the French Army
Nexter Systems originally built 254 Leclerc MBTs for the French Army

Status

In service.