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INTERNATIONAL: The trusted source for defence technology information since 1976
Issue 4/2009 August/September
INTERNATIONAL
The trusted source for defence technology information since 1976
issue 4/2009
Thomas Withington
Contents
Barrels Still Needed at Sea
The rise of the ship-based anti-aircraft, anti-surface and land-attack missile followed the initial development of missile technology by Germany during World War Two. It was said that the birth of the missile heralded the death of the naval gun.
14 20 26 32 36 44 50 56
2 4 62
Robots in Convoy Strike Drones: Persistent, Precise and Plausible Long-range Snipers
Robots
Ian Kemp
Drones: armed
Roy Braybrook
Artillery
14
Ian Kemp
Surfing the Micro-Wave
Drone update
Eric H. Biass
20
Forward Observer Gear Gets Target Right
Infantry: optics
Thomas Withington
Sigint Aircraft: Fly High, Intelligence Listen Closely Valry Rousset and Antoine Philippe The Tambourine (Algo)rhythm
Technology
36
Johnny Keggler
Water Lane Insertion
44
Naval: small craft
Thomas Withington
Index to Manufacturers and Advertisers Business Digest Spreading the Spectrum Amongst Friends Warfare Has Changed, So Should Have Methods
Complete Guide Supplement
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Complete Guide
by
J. Keggler and T. Withington
Complete Guide Supplement
Paul V. Alpo Tactical Radios Urban Warfare
armada INTERNATIONAL 4/2009
Business
Patria and ThalesRaytheonSystems

have signed a ten million contract to supply medium-range radars to Finland. The contract also covers the upgrade of ThalesRaytheonSystems long-range radars and will see Patria providing software design, equipment shelter rearmament and modifications.
Field Aviation has delivered a highly modified Dash 8 Q300 maritime surveillance aircraft to the Icelandic Coast
Guard, under a $ 30 million contract. Field Aviation was the contract prime,
Northrop Grumman has delivered two retrofitted BQM-34 Firebee aerial targets to the US Navy. These upgraded targets were modified from the BQM-74E product line with current production avionics hardand software. Northrop Grumman is to retrofit 15 BQM-34 Firebees under an original August 2005 award. Raytheon was awarded a $ 166.9 million contract from the US Navy for Lot 9 production and delivery of the Aim-9X infrared-guided air-to-air missile. This contract will provide Aim-9X Block I missiles and introduce Block II missiles into the inventories of the US military and its allies.
Thales will deliver 13 Smart-S Mk 2 surveillance radars to Lockheed Martin Canada for installation on Canadian Patrol Frigates under the Halifax Class
Modernization Program. Deliveries will take place between 2010 and 2015, with all to be fully operational by 2017.
DCNS was awarded a contract from the French DGA to study and design a Synior demonstrator that can classify and identify uncooperative naval targets. DCNS will work with Thales and
Onera during the first 18-month phase to produce a technical and financial proposal for a Synior demonstrator.
with Bombardier Aerospace supplying the basic Dash 8 and L-3 Communications the sensor systems. The Q300 MSA has a multi-mission capability that includes search and rescue, maritime sovereignty and medevac activities.
Of Special Note
Lockheed Martin has delivered the first

Non-Recurring Engineering AN/TPQ-35
Tencate Advanced Armour will supply its Ceratego composite armour panels for the Dutch Army Patria XA-188 vehicles currently deployed in Afghanistan. Delivery of the Ceratego armour has begun and will be completed by October 2009.
counter-fire target acquisition (EQ-36) radar system to the US Army under a

$ 120 million contract awarded in 2007. The original contract called for five systems, but in 2008 contract options exercised now call for additional twelve EQ-36 radars. The EQ-36 locates firing positions of rocket and mortar launchers.
assault Aviation has completed the turnover of the first Rafale F3 combat aircraft to the French Navy. The Rafale F3, sporting the number 27 on its airframe, is fitted with the latest digital avionics and is now certified to carry the AESA radar. This is the first of twelve to be delivered to the navy between 2009 and 2014 and is expected to undergo a series of full-load catapult tests on the Charles de Gaulle when she puts to sea in September.
Big Deals in Short

Company
Rockwell Collins IAI Northrop Grumman Lockheed Martin EADS Saab Lockheed Martin Northrop Grumman Renault Trucks Defense Teledyne TSS Lockheed Martin L-3 Link ST Electronics Rheinmetall Northrop Grumman ITT Northrop Grumman Derco Aerospace Saab Marshall Land Systems Raytheon Qinetiq Lockheed Martin
Amount
$ 12.1 million $ 150 million Not applicable $ 60 million Undisclosed Undisclosed $ 4 million $ 213.8 million Undisclosed Undisclosed Not applicable $ 31.8 million S$ 20 million 54 million $ 27 million 5.25 million $ 4 million Not applicable SEK 105 million Undisclosed $ 5 million $ 3.7 million $ 16.5 million
Event
Delivered first batch upgraded Kfir fighter jets Continue depot maintenance for Lantirn targeting pods Develop country-wide border security programme Supply fire control computers for combat vehicles Develop technology for F/A-18E/F IRST programme Provide long-lead materials for building LPD 26
From Whom
US Army US Air Force US Air Force Saudi Arabia Denel Land Systems Boeing US Navy Thales Japan Computer Sciences RS Navy German Army US Navy US Army US Joint Forces Ametek EDA UK MoD Maryland Procurement US Marine Corps US Navy Turkey Coast Guard Colombia Air Force
Design prototype soldier-worn computer for GSE programme Began E-2D Advanced Hawkeye low-rate initial production
Provide 33 Sherpa 3 for Syracuse III military satcom programme Delivered eight SG Brown Meridian gyrocompasses Delivered 1000th vertical-launch Asroc missile Build CH-47F trainer for US Army flight XXI pgm Provide navigation/seamanship training and training ship Supply eight Wiesel 2 120 mm mortar systems Ensure C4I elements share critical information Supply hard/software upgrates to Embedded GPS Receiver Develop software architecture for cyber warfare system Distribute line of C-130 and F-16 products Address drone sense & avoid issue for regular airspace Supply 28 tail lifts to Man Support vehicles Create cross-domain security solution Provide C3I test support for expeditionary vehicle
Deliver Paveway II Enhanced Laser Guided Training Rounds
Business
Eurospike has received a 35 million contract to supply the Bundeswehr with 311 lightweight, multi-purpose Spike LR guided missile systems (Mells) for
the German Armys new Puma infantry
Boeing Defence UK announced that a modified UK Chinook Mk 3 helicopter

completed its maiden test flight on 6 June. A Boeing-led team that includes Qinetiq and GE Aviation Systems is working with the Royal Air Force in reverting eight Mk 3 Chinooks to be compatible with the RAFs fleet of 40 Mk 2 helos and flight-worthy to support missions in Afghanistan in 2009.
Rheinmetall Defence has received the green light from Germanys BWB to begin serial production of 405 Puma infantry
Ceradyne has acquired all business and

assets of Diaphorm Technologies a ballistic combat helmet manufacturer. The $ 9.5 million agreement saw Ceradyne acquiring all technology and intellectual property as well. Announced in the same news release Ceradyne submitted a proposal to the US Marine Corps Systems Command for the production of Enhanced Combat Helmets.
fighting vehicles. The contract, worth 1.3 billion, was signed with the federal procurement agency (BWB) and PSM a 50:50 joint venture with Rheinmetall and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann. Deliveries under this order will begin in 2010.
fighting vehicle and infantry fighting units. Eurospike is jointly owned by Diehl BGT Defence, Rheinmetall and Rafael. The contract contains options for a further 1160 Mells missiles worth around 120 million.
Renault Trucks Defense has received an additional order for its Sherpa Carrier trucks from Nato; the vehicles are destined for Natos Combined Joint Task Force headquarters. Northrop Grumman and Cobham will provide the Vis-X Vehicular Intercommunication Systems Expanded for the US Armys Communications and Electronics Command. Up to 500 systems per month for the first year and 2000 per year thereafter are required under the ten-year, $ 2.4 billion contract. Iveco Defence Vehicles will deliver ten Light Multirole Vehicles (LMV) to the Slovak Army by end-2009 through a
contract signed in late-June. The Slovak Army is the ninth military service to select the LMV for front-line duties.
Atlas Elektronik will provide support services to ensure operational readiness of 16 IMCMS mine warfare systems for the Belgian and Royal Netherlands navies. Atlas will set-up a technical hotline to deal with obsolescence and configuration management. The service contract length is 15 years; covering the entire lifecycle of Belgian Flower class and Dutch Alkmaar class mine countermeasures vessels. Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft and Marineforce International have signed a construction order with Turkey for six
Avon Protection Systems received an additional $ 22.3 million contract from the US Department of Defense under the Joint Service General Purpose Mask programme to provide more than 700,000 Chemical B canisters (spares and filters) for the companys M50 chemical/biological protection mask. Boeing has received a $ 750 million, tenyear contract from the US Air Force to provide engineering support for the B-52 bomber. Under the Engineering Sustainment Program, Boeing will support software, communication, avionics and electrical systems and provide an in-flight emergency support hotline to aircrews so pilots can contact Boeing engineers to troubleshoot problems in real-time. Saab has received a development order from the Swedish FMV to continue upgrading work on the Gripen multirole fighter. The SEK 350 million order will keep the Gripens maturation in line with the Swedish Armed Forces longterm plans. This order covers aircraft in Sweden, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Thailand.
Thales will supply twelve NBC Reconnaissance vehicles built around Mowags Piranha IIIC to the Swiss Army by end 2011. Mowag will integrate Thales NBC
sensing, analysis and evaluation solution, with Thales to ensure functionality with networking and power management systems. The first pre-series vehicle, commissioned in 2006, is included in this order.
Class 214 submarines. These new Turkish submarines will be equipped with an airindependent, fuel cell propulsion. The 66metre-long boats will be built by Glk Naval Shipyards near Izmit.
Raytheon has received a $ 154.8 million contract from the Canadian Navy to
conduct 30 sets of overhauls and convert 21 Phalanx Block 1B Baseline 0 systems to Baseline 1. Raytheon will provide spares, repair services and technical support. The work will be completed by 2017.
Stevens Aviation was selected by Aerial Surveillance Systems to install Flir Systems EO/IR sensors on Skyeye 350 Hawker Beechcraft King Air 350 aerial surveillance aircraft. Flir Systems will provide either its Brite Star III or brandnew Star Safire HD sensors for the programme. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems will supply its Claw mission control software, which will also be integrated by Stevens Aviation.
Remotec has signed an agreement with ODF Optronics to provide the latters Eyedrive mini robot to US customers.
ODF, from Israel, produces a range of combat-proven robots; the Eyedrive being an observation and surveillance variant that provides real-time 360 audio and video surveillance. Remotec is a subsidiary of Northrop Grumman.
Patria has signed a 240 million agreement with the Swedish Materiel Administration (FMV) to supply 113 AMV 8 8 armoured wheeled vehicles to the Swedish Army under project AWV 2014. The contract covers delivery of five variants and an option for an additional 113 vehicle systems. The vehicles will be built in Finland between 2010 and 2014.
Intelligence
Boeing and Raytheon, already teamed on the Poseidon, are bidding for the EP-X programme
Electronic mission aircraft belong to a rare type of military aviation worldwide. The primary role of sigint aircraft has evolved from strategic intelligence data collection of adverse air defence (elint) and command & control networks to a more tactical exploitation of mostly radio signals (comint) in the current operational context.
Valry Rousset and Antoine Philippe
he advantages of intercepting signals from the air remain obvious, but while the standoff capability afforded by aircraft to support allied strike missions carried out since the Vietnam War are still of value, the recent change in threat patterns has been challenging the classical role of sigint aircraft. One of the major changes stems from the fact that threats are now more evasive, having moved away from the radar emissions that are easily vulnerable to ever-smarter interception, location and subsequent soft or hard kills (jamming or physical destruction from precision-guided ammunition, like anti-radar missiles). Then there is the advent of more agile, stealthy and smaller combat units, which has complicated the task of finding and keeping track of enemy forces, a situation that was exemplified by the war in former Yugoslavia.
High-demand, Low-density
Unexpectedly, the main challenge is generated by the new information and communication technologies themselves. With civilian technologies increasingly available to both civil and military users worldwide in the form of low-power mobile phones and with the brunt of information exchanges increasingly car-
ried by underground cables of the Internet rather than aerials, the task of monitoring enemy signals has become a formidable challenge for airborne assets. To the need to shift frequencies in order to reach the lower communication bands of GSM and professional mobile radios has been added a requirement to cope with higher-band satellite commercial communication networks of the likes of Inmarsat and Thuraya. This being said, however, the requirement for high-frequency monitoring has not subsided, with threats from lower technologies still used in Africa or Central Asia. In other words, the intercept spectrum is quite demanding as it now encompasses a 3 MHz to 18 MHz range, within which a lot of very exotic signals are inserted, emanating from GSM/GPRS to professional mobile radios and tactical line-of-sight systems to name but a few. Last but not least, most conventional militaries have embarked on tactical radio modernisation programmes, resulting in increased data exchanges affordedly met by new digital, frequency-agile combat net radios a nightmare recently made worse for sigint interceptors by the fielding of softwaredefined radios, with their on-demand waveform generation and multiple streams of high-bandwidth data exchanges. Fortunately, sigint payload designers and operators (mostly American, European and Israeli) have also benefited
from new technologies and battlespace digitisation. Micro-miniaturisation and digitial signal processing have opened a new era in mission package development, since cumbersome hardware tailored to signal threats can now be replaced by much more modular, reprogrammable payloads, that increasingly rely on commercial technology. The volume, flexibility and user-friendly operation resulting from this major shift has mostly benefited the intelligence analyst with, in turn, an increased service quality reaching the warfighter, thanks to the generalisation of network-enabled, information-centric capabilities. Northrop Grumman, Elta, Thales or Eads sigint equipment suppliers have thus specialised in the design
A typical threat that might have to be addressed amongst many others, is this radar that commands S-300 missiles. (Armada/AP)
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Intelligence
In South America the airborne electronic warfare effort is exemplified by this multiplesensor Embraer 145 RS. (Embraer)
and integration of these new-generation digital payloads, together with new analysis tools, on legacy and new aircraft or drones. Such joint-level and rare assets as sigint aircraft can now cue forces in the field to provide alert, network surveillance, mapping or denial, as well as increasingly accurate target identification and location. For example, the oldstyle formation trios of RC-12 Guardrails flying a straight, parallel line to the border to collect sigint for the NSA over several days are a view of the past. Although the Guardrail is still flying, the current RC-12S mission aircraft have undergone a thorough mission payload modernisation, with Conops and Conuse allowing the interception-exploitation loop to tighten, resulting in airborne exploitation and decision-aids tools feeding ground stations in near-real time via satcomms and datalinks. Similarly, this miniaturisation and automation has facilitated Command, Control, Communications, Computers,
Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) integration, resulting in a growing contribution of sigint to allsource intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. Last but not least, standardisation and graphics-based situational awareness allow sigint mission specialists to disseminate their electronic enemy orders of battle or geolocated intercepted communications to any non-specialist over combat networks, serving tactical commanders down to company level and saving technical analysis parameters for later, to feed the expert green slimes sitting far away.
copters (as in Poland or Russia) and tactical or medium- to high-endurance drones flying in support of lower-echelon army units as part of a joint, networkenabled capability. Meanwhile, the more classical jewels of the crown larger sigint mission aircraft are being beefed up with multiple sensors or advanced onboard multi-source collection capabilities, and integration of the mission system is syndicated towards full-spectrum exploitation. Lastly, supporting the covert side of sigint, new payload development, modular installation and remote exploitation allow general-purpose aircraft, such as the venerable C-130 Hercules, to conduct electronic intelligence missions with a mere sigint pod, which can look like an auxiliary fuel tank to the untrained eye. With operations closer to civil aviation and a respectable endurance, new-generation or modernised sigint aircraft derived from light commercial or business aircraft now cue sensors on commercial communications to enforce border surveillance or homeland security missions, with applications ranging from crisis monitoring to counter-smuggling and counter-piracy.
Tomorrows Sigint Missions?

The 2010s decade will see a new generation of electronic warfare platforms, mainly derived from the commercial aviBased on intelligence data received from airborne platforms, a mission preparation system such as this Sagem Helipsys provides a visual impression of threat areas and volumes. (Sagem)
Although disarmed, true-to-life airdefence systems like this SA-3 photographed at Nellis Air Force Base can be quite useful in crew training threat identification process. (Armada/AP)
Of course, this modernisation effort has gone mostly unnoticed, having taken place in the shadow of legacy sigint aircraft programmes, marginally augmented by new types over the last decade. However, miniaturised payloads, softwaredriven exploitation and multi-source collection have rejuvenated electronic mission aircraft, while costly aircraft calibration is receding in favour of more modular installation on smaller airframes. New players can thus provide these more compact solutions without designing a full system, like Aselsan in Turkey or Rohde & Schwarz in Germany, or L-3 Communications in the United States. Recent years have then seen the development of light sigint aircraft, heliarmada INTERNATIONAL 4/2009
ation world. The Boeing 737, which takes advantage of several successes, in the United States first, then on the international market clearly appears as the successor of the US Navy EP-3 Aries II. This answer to military needs arrives on time to balance the economic crisis that strikes commercial aviation. In January 2006, a new generation was born when Boeing announced the launch of the sigint version of its 737. Integrating network-centric communications, it can be used for strategic intelligence missions or within time-sensitive targeting processes. For Boeing, it is a derivative of the P-8A Multi-mission Maritime Aircraft (seen in the title picture of this article) produced and developed for the US
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Intelligence
from air-defence systems. Flying in commercial airways, such aircraft are also the visible tools of nations that have a worldwide security policy and want to display a strong diplomatic position in international crises. On the same segment, Russia is promoting a solution based on its Ilyushin 76.
Biz Base
These renewed versions of classical sigint aircraft compete with business jets, but also unmanned platforms: drones and sigint satellites. The market for sigint aircraft smaller than the costly airliners is growing. These solutions integrate the best cost-effective ratio, considering the fact that the essential is in payloads and mission systems provided the aircraft present the minimal level of performances in term of endurance and operating altitude. The basic Gulfstream G550 can reach 51,000 feet and has a range of 6750 nm at Mach 0.8. More discrete, more economical, business jets have all the characteristics to meet the needs of several air forces, including American, Israeli and European, that are already familiar with
Based on the Northrop Grumman RQ-4 Block 20 Global Hawk airframe, the Eurohawks role will be to locate and identify radar threats and monitor hostile manoeuvres. (Eurohawk)
Navy. This sigint version of the 737 may now capitalise on the choice of India for the P-8 Poseidon. The aircraft is a candidate for the EP-X (Electronic Patrol Experimental) programme aimed at replacing the ageing fleet of Lockheed Martin EP-3E Aries II turboprops. In 28 January 2008, the US Navy asked American defence contractors to design, and ultimately build, a new sigint platform. Although the number of aircraft in the potential EP-X order is relatively small by American procurement standards 14 to 24 the final selection could have significant influence on how first-tier militaries conduct maritime surveillance for decades to come. The US Army exploits a fleet of eight DHC-7 Airborne Reconnaissance Low aircraft. Two ARL comint aircraft will be converted into multiintelligence aircraft. Supporting the warfighter in guerrilla warfare, these modified aircraft are equipped with comint, imagery, synthetic aperture radar and moving target detector mission payloads controlled via open-architecture workstations. By comparison, Europe does not offer today any significant sigint programmes. Focused on international needs, its answer is embodied in the Airbus solutions promoted by Eads, with a sigint version of the Airbus A320 aircraft. Both the B737 and the A320 are able to integrate additional mission payloads and workstations during their operational life and address future requirements. In both cases the platform can take advantage of
efficient, reliable and economical engines, namely the GE/Snecma CFM56. The Leap-X engine programme, for example, will bring a 16% fuel consumption reduction as of 2015. The aircraft also has increased capabilities: long endurance at high altitude, quick translation to theatres of interest far from homeland base and integration in networked
In spite of the fact that Frances two Gabriel electronic warfare aircraft are getting seriously long in the tooth, no serious replacement has yet been identified. (Armada/AP)
operations (in particular for data fusion process for targeting, or suppression of enemy air defence missions). Moreover, the type will eventually have an in-flight refuelling option for longer missions. Operating in stand-off missions, takingoff from safe zones, it can operate far
With aerials sticking out from every suitable position in addition to its belly-mounted synthetic aperture radar, this Heron will find it very difficult to hide the true nature of its mission. (Elta Systems)
Gulfstream and Beech aircraft for example. These more economical solutions rely on a large choice of business or regional jets. Embraer and Gulfstream Aerospace are now seen as the most active aircraft manufacturers producing and developing special sigint versions of their civil products. The Indian Air Force operates a single Gulfstream III SRA. To replace its aging fleet of sigint Beechcraft aircraft, at the end of 2001 the Israeli Defense Force opted for the Gulfstream V, acquiring a fleet of three to the tune of $ 174 million. Elta, a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries, was later awarded a $ 250 million contract by the Israeli Ministry of Defense to install a comprehensive sigint and C2 mission suite. Gulfstream now promotes three aircraft: the G450, G500 and G550. The G500 long-range business jet is designated the EC-37SM as an economic off-theshelf elint or special mission solution. Italy is also interested by the G550.
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Intelligence
turisation, automation and remote operation. The Israeli Heron, also operated by the Indian Navy, reflects this option. South Africa and Britain have similar plans to equip their tactical drones with a sigint payload. Recently, Germany selected the Eurohawk, a version of the Northrop Grumman RQ-4 Block 20 Global Hawk of the US Air Force, with the sigint payload developed by Eads Germany. Launched in January 2007, the programme is run within a 430 million contract to Eurohawk by a joint venture company formed by Eads and Northrop Grumman. However, a drone operator has to bear with a very serious limitation: drones are not allowed to fly in civilian airways, according to the current ICAO regulations.
Pallets for Cargo

The Eurohawks Elint payload is developed by Eads to provide the hale drone with an automatic mode that enables it to provide a continuous survey of a wide area of the electromagnetic spectrum. (Armada/EHB)
Already in service in Brazil, the EMB 145 RS/AGS has received a very good welcome on this competitive sector. In 2008, Indias Air Force signed a deal with Embraer for three EMB 145 AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning & Control) aircraft. This programme includes two sigint and seven target towing/reconnaissance mission aircraft with communication jammer capabilities. System integrator Raytheon offers both: the aircraft the historic relations with the Hawker and Beechcraft families and the payloads. It is known that Dassault Aviation has the capability to develop sigint version of its business jets. It was the case with its older Falcon 50. Britain and France will soon have to face the replacement of their respective Nimrod R.1 and C-160G Transall Gabriel. In the first case, a batch of three US Air Force KC-135R Rivet Joint airframes within a possible foreign military sale is seriously considered to address the uncertain Helix project. This option is criticized by some who underline a possible loss of sovereignty over this sensitive and somehow symbolic mission. Combat aircraft still offer versatile solutions through the use of internal electronic warfare systems, or podded systems connected by datalinks to a ground station, such as the Thales Astac pod. The pod is used on French Air Force Mirage F1s, on various Mirage 2000s, as well as on Japanese RF-4Es. This solution offers the operational advantage of the ability to collect signals from a platform that retains all the capabilities of a combat aircraft: speed, manoeuvrability and self-defence, everything that avoids the risk of Aries lands in China type scenarios. In France, sigint will become a critical issue for the defence policy of a nation that has worldwide commitments and that is now back in the Nato military command. Indeed the modernised DC-8 Sarigue strategic sigint aircraft was withdrawn just two years after its last mod-
ernisation and the upgrade or replacement of Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft (some of which fitted with comint payloads) will have to be seriously examined, while a successor will have to be found for the two Gabriels. Will France, which has recently opted for a brand-new sigint ship as well as Essaim and Elisa sig-
alry Rousset is a member of the Guerrelec Association, which is the French chapter of the Association of Old Crows whilst Antoine Philippe is an expert at the French Institute of Strategic Analysis in Paris. int satellite payloads, leave the airborne sigint duty to its allies?
Authors Brief Bio
Drone Base
Sigint systems based on drones also have their advocates, thanks to payload minia-
Flexible and economical solutions may also be offered by modular pods and palletised sensors and workstations fitted under a wing or in the cargo bay of transport aircraft like a Lockheed Martin C-130J and eventually the future Airbus A400M. Sigint can be performed by other mission aircraft that are already well adapted to carry electronic payloads like AEW&C (such as the Saudi RE-3s), maritime patrol aircraft or tankers. For aerospace companies and their air force customers, the only limit is the sky. Over the years, sigint mission packages have gradually gained independence from their host aircraft. Compact payloads, modular design, software-defined operation and network-enabled capabilities are coming of age to blend sigint missions into wider C4ISR capabilities, contributing to information dominance from headquarters to the warfighter. With the emphasis now put on land warfare and growing armed forces electronic warfare capabilities, the sigint mission aircraft is no longer an air service prerogative, but part of a jointness in air, land and maritime operations. This evolution challenges its ability to stay aloft and monitor very-low-power signals from afar, espea cially in dense, urban environments.
Two components of the electronic warfare Heron are the EL/K-7071 comint gear (left) and the EL/M-2055 radar, both developed by Elta Systems. (Armada/JK)
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Robots
Appropriate task for a Mule: bear loads
Convoy operations and other logistics missions could be the first use of large robots. However, the role of remote-controlled armed robots able to look and shoot around the corner in dangerous urban environment situations may soon gain momentum.
Ian Kemp
he Multifunctional Utility/Logistics and Equipment (Mule) being developed by Lockheed Martin is one component of the US Armys recently terminated Future Combat Systems (FCS) project, which is expected to be pulled through to the successor Army Brigade Combat Team Modernization programme. The US Department of Defenses Joint Ground Robotics Enterprise identifies four broad mission sets for such vehicles: force protection missions including explosive ordnance disposal, route clearance/demining/area clearance/mobility, fire fighting and decontamination logistics including transportation, refuel/resupply, battlefield medical applications and humanitarian assistance reconnaissance including perimeter/site security and early warning, short range (around the corner), long range (outside weapons range) and chemical biological nuclear radiological and explosive sensing direct contact with lethal effects and less-than-lethal effects. The Mule is intended to perform elements of each of these mission sets. The Mule is comprised of four major components: a 6 x 6 Common Mobility Platform, the ANS, a Centralized Controller and three mission equipment packages. The mission equipment packages enable three variants to be assembled: the XM1217 Transport Mule (Mule-T) is designed to carry about one tonne of
equipment and rucksacks for dismounted infantry squads with the mobility needed to follow squads in complex terrain. It will be used for casualty evacuation the XM1218 Countermine (Mule-CM) variant will be equipped with the Ground Standoff Mine Detection System (GStamids) enabling it to detect and neutralise mines and mark cleared lanes through minefields the XM1219 Armed Robotic Vehicle Assault-Light (ARV-A-L) will be equipped with a reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition package and armed with a small-calibre gun and four Javelin missiles to support dismounted infantry units.
With a weight of 3.5 tonnes, all Mule variants will be transportable by CH-47 Chinook helicopter. The Mule features an advanced 6 x 6 independent articulated suspension coupled to in-hub motors powering each wheel which enables it to climb a 1.5-metre step, cross a 1.5-metre gap, traverse slopes greater than 40%, ford water to a depth of 1.25 metres and cross obstacles as high as half a metre while compensating for varying payload weights. General Dynamics Robotic Systems is leading the development of the Autonomous Navigation System (ANS), which will perform the driving navigation function. A smart navigation system is the key element of a robot if it wants to be truly autonomous, as it will have to carry out the brainwork to understand the surroundings and plot a course accordingly. The navigation system has been tested in a series of Robotic Convoy Experiments (RCX) beginning with Phase I
Lockheed Martins Multifunctional Utility/Logistics and Equipment (Mule) unmanned ground vehicle is being developed in three variants: XM1219 Armed Robotic Vehicle Assault-Light (left), XM1218 Countermine (centre) and XM1217 Transport Mule (right). Prototypes will be delivered from 2011. (Lockheed Martin)
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Robots
A Lockheed Martin Squad Mission Support System follows a US Army infantry squad during the Army Expeditionary Warrior Experiment Spiral E at Fort Benning, Georgia in late 2008. (Lockheed Martin)
conducted in August 2007 at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. This was designed to test basic robotic convoy functionality and accuracy with obstacle detection and avoidance technology. The test vehicles were a General Dynamics Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicle and an LMTV. During the trials the vehicles were driven in tele-operation mode and also navigated independent of soldier control. Phase II of the RCX was conducted in mid-2008. The army is scheduled to deliver the first of 16 prototypes five Mule-Ts, six ARV-A-Ls and five Mule-CMs in mid2011 for testing scheduled to continue until 2013. General Dynamics, in collaboration with the US Army Research Laboratory, has developed the 4 x 4 Tactical Autonomous Combat-Chassis (Tac-C) which is designed to be driven by a soldier or programmed to operate autonomously. The Tac-C has been designed to have the speed and performance of an off-road vehicle. A high performance turbo-charged diesel enables the Tac-C to achieve speeds of up to 128 km/h when manned and 56 km/h crosscountry and up to 88 km/h on roads in the autonomous mode. The vehicle can carry a payload of 900 kg. Initial trials have focused on such roles as cargo carrier and medical evacuation. Further development could see an assault variant
equipped with a reconnaissance mast, an automatic-loading 60-mm mortar and a direct fire weapon such as a 12.7-mm heavy machine gun. In late 2008 General Dynamics received a contract from the US Special
technology in convoy missions, such as the 26 January 2009 Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (Crada) between Tardec and Oshkosh Defense. The starting point is Oshkoshs Terramax, which is based on the companys 4 x 4 Marine Tactical Vehicle Replacement logistics vehicle. This features the companys Command Zone drive-by-wire technology which allows computer-controlled steering and direct electronic control of the acceleration, braking and transmission systems. The Terramax features a lidar (light detection and ranging) system, camera-based vision and a GPS/IMU system for operation and navigation purposes. The Terramax participated in the Darpas 2004 and 2005 Grand Challenge events and the 2007 Urban Challenge, and significantly, was the only purpose-designed military logistics platform to participate in these events. The Terramax was one of only
Oshkoshs TerraMax, seen here during Darpas 2007 Urban Challenge, is based on the companys 4 x 4 MTVR logistics vehicle. Oshkosh has received contracts from the US Army and US Marine Corps to exploit this technology. (Oshkosh)
Operations Command to supply the Combat Autonomous Mobility System (Cams) already demonstrated in the TacC to support a Joint Capability Technology Demonstration.
Automated Convoy
Both the army and US Marine Corps are funding a range of technology initiatives to explore the potential for using robotic
The Israel Defense Force is evaluating the G-Nius Unmanned Ground Systems Guardium for border patrol duty and other force protection functions. (Elbit)
four vehicles to successfully complete the 2005 course. The Crada covers a three-year collaborative effort to integrate the Convoy Active Safety Technology (Cast) surrogate system onto the Terramax to create a lead vehicle that can navigate and operate in missions, while communicating route information to another unmanned follower vehicle. All vehicles in the convoy must be capable of safe nearautonomous operations among vehicles, people, animals and other obstacles at operational speeds and in tactical environments. Oshkosh will also provide nonproprietary platform information to assist in the integration of Cast technology into the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT), the Heavy Equipment Transporter (Het) and other vehicles that it supplies to the US Army. At the US Army Tactical Wheeled Vehicle Component Technology Demonstrations in Yuma, Arizona in January 2006, Oshkosh demonstrated the transition of technology from the Terramax to a Palletized Load System (PLS). The PLS, which features an onboard load handling system and a 16.5-tonne payload, is designed to transport containers carrying ammunition and other critical supplies or large tanks holding fuel or water. In a parallel effort, Oshkosh announced in March that the US Naval
16
Robots
The Wiesel 2 Systronic is part of Rheinmetalls Move-It demonstration programme. It serves as the remote control station of the Telemax robot and Air-Robot, but can itself be remotecontrolled. Three of its cameras can be clearly seen on the nose of the vehicle. (Armada/EHB)
Surface Warfare Center is sponsoring a collaborative project to develop and evaluate potential uses of the Terramax as a Roboticized-MTVR in different mission-specific scenarios. Tardec is managing the Cast programme, which is intended to develop a low-cost robotic convoy capability for current force tactical wheeled vehicles. Tardec has set a target cost of a robotic retrofit kit for under $ 20,000 per vehicle. The technology was publicly demonstrated integrated onto two BAE FMTV logistics trucks during the Warfigher Experiment I, held at Fort A P Hill, Virginia in October 2007. The Cast system does not remove the driver from a vehicle. Instead it enables drivers behind the lead vehicle in a convoy to switch to a robotic mode, which allows the driver to concentrate on situational awareness such as roadside bombs and other threats. In the demonstration the two trucks were fitted with a global positioning system, a sensor package consisting of two laser
detection and ranging sensors, an adaptive cruise control millimetre wave radar with two colour cameras, a communication link and an operators control box with on, off, follower and leader buttons. In the follower mode the system maintains a set distance between vehicles. The goal is for convoys to operate at speeds of between 60 and 100 km/h on dirt roads. As rear-end collisions are one of the leading causes of convoy breakdowns on operations it is intended that the Cast system will also improve safety.
based on the 4 x 4 Tomcar light all-terrain vehicle that is used by the Israel Defense Forces and Israeli Border Police and can carry a payload of up to 300 kg, including a light armour shield to protect vital systems. It can carry a wide variety of sensors, including video and thermal cameras, with auto-target acquisition and capture, microphones, loudspeakers and a two-way radio. The Guardium can also be equipped with lethal weapons such as a machine gun or less-thanlethal weapons. The 80-km/h-top-speed vehicle features autonomous operation allowing for precise steering across pre-defined routes programmed in its mission profile. Any weapon system that might be fitted is directed and fired by operators in the main control centre, who can also opt to drive the vehicle by remote control. Possible uses for the Guardium include perimeter and convoy security, surveillance and reconnaissance, communications relay, armed action and logistics.
Israels Guardium
In mid-2008 the Israel Defense Force received its first Guardium for evaluation and the system has since entered service. The Guardium was developed by G-Nius, a joint venture formed by Elbit Systems and Israel Aerospace Industries. The Israel Airport Authority is evaluating the Guardium for possible use as part of its airport security system. The Guardium is
The curious structure on the bonnet of the Wiesel 2 serves as a take-off pad for this miniature quadruple-rotor drone known as the Air Vehicle. (Armada/EHB)
Rheinmetalls Move-It
More focused on urban environments, one of Rheinmetalls field of research work involves the use of a Wiesel 2 as base platform for its Move-It systronic demonstration programme. The vehicle carries a rear-mounted, radio-controlled, rubber-tracked Telemax robot that deploys without requiring its operator to dismount, as well as a quadruple-rotor Air-Robot drone that uses the Wiesel 2 Digitals bonnet as take-off pad. The main objective of the two-man crew Wiesel 2 Digital is to allow a squad to explore the vicinity of the vehicle before engaging itself into a hazardous area or street. Should the ground or airborne scouts not suffice to clear the path ahead, and knowing that an armoured vehicle is a target of choice for adequately-armed insurgents, the crew can dismount and remote-control the Wiesel 2 itself whilst remaining under concealed cover. The Wiesel is equipped with three nosemounted cameras and one mast-mounted camera while onboard control and display systems are also used to analyse pictures provided by the Air-Robot or a the Telemax.
The Wiesels rear end compartment carries the garage of the Telemax, which, once on the ground, deploys its variable configuration tracks. It is here seen carrying a camera. (Armada/EHB)
18
The Northrop Grumman GBU-44/B Viper Strike has been used in Iraq on the same companys MQ-5B Hunter
Drones: armed
Unmanned aircraft are becoming Americas strike system of choice, not only in dealing with fleeting counterinsurgency targets, but also in actions of dubious legality, where the use of conventional aircraft could have worse political consequences. Their success has been a major factor in limiting US Air Force purchases of fifth-generation fighters.
Roy Braybrook
ightweight air-to-surface missiles now under development will open the ground-attack role to far greater numbers of drone platforms. This in turn will pave the way for heavier, stealthy, dedicated unmanned combat air vehicles (Ucavs).
Project Anvil with Consolidated PB4Ys. Neither programme was successful. Armed drones next appeared at the time of the Vietnam War. The US Air Force carried out weapons trials with the Ryan AQM-34 Firebee, and the US Navy employed the torpedo-carrying Gyrodyne QH-50C/D Dash helicopter for several years.
History
The first armed projects were Americas WWII radio-controlled bombers: the US Army Air Forces Operation Aphrodite using Boeing B-17s, and the US Navys
Current Applications
Unarmed lightweight drones developed in Israel in the 1970s inspired America to develop much larger designs, capable of carrying off-the-shelf air-to-surface missiles. In February 2001, weapons trials
The US Navys Spike missile is illustrated during trials on the Lew Aerospace Inventus-E drone, which has a gross weight of only 13.6 kg and a maximum payload of 4.1 kg. (Lew Aerospace)
began combining the 1040-kg General Atomics MQ-1L Predator-A and the 48-kg laser spot-homing Lockheed Martin AGM-114 Hellfire missile. The first armed Predator sortie over Afghanistan took place on 7 October 2001. The first operational strike occurred on 4 February 2002, when a convoy of light 4 x 4s was attacked. First use in the close support role occurred on 4 March 2002 during Operation Anaconda, when a mountaintop Al Qaeda gun emplacement (which had survived attacks by Boeing F-15Es and Lockheed Martin F-16s) was destroyed. Another strike, also by the CIAs Special Activities Division, followed in Yemen on 3 November 2002. In this case the MQ-1L operated from Djibouti, where Camp Lemonier now serves as the main US base for counter-terrorist operations in the Horn of Africa. US Air Force drones carried out 112 such attacks over Iraq and Afghanistan in 2007. Its Predator-A and General Atomics MQ-9 Predator-B, which the service named Reaper, fired Hellfires during 132 operational sorties in 2008. Firings averaged only one sortie in 45. Unpublicised are the corresponding figures for the CIA, which judging by the agencys avtur (JP4 and F34) fuel delivery invoices is operating Predator-Bs from Shahbaz and Shamsi in Baluchistan (Pakistan) for in-country strikes against Al Qaeda and Taliban targets. In the same region, the CIA may also be using airfields at Bandari, Dalbandin and Pasni. It may be noted that the 4763-kg Reaper is cleared not only for Hellfire but also for the much heavier GBU-12 Paveway II, GBU-38 Jdam and GBU-49 Enhanced Paveway II, based on 227-kg (class) warheads.
20
Drones: armed
Lockheed Martins Direct Attack Guided Rocket (Dagr) has a nose-mounted laser seeker, rather than BAE Systems APKWSII arrangement of small sensors on the four canards. (Lockheed Martin)
A light launch weight implies a small warhead, but this would be acceptable for most targets in Americas current operations. Such a warhead would also restrict collateral effects, making the launch decision easier. Lightweight drone-launched missiles will bring close air support under the direct control of forward army units, rather than involving a chain of command back to brigade level.
Guided Rockets Lighter Weapons

The $ 70,000 Hellfire was designed for long-range supersonic precision attacks on heavily armoured vehicles, and is an expensive overkill in many contemporary engagements. In addition, its warhead produces collateral effects that are not always desired. The weight of the Hellfire restricts its carriage to relatively large drones, representing only a small fraction of the US fleet. The Air Force global total for Predators and Reapers is less than 150, whereas the American services have over 6000 smaller drones in southwest Asia alone. Other drones suitable size-wise for the Hellfire weight category include the 4650kg IAI Heron TP, the 1650-kg Elbit Systems Hermes 1500, the 1633-kg General Atomics MQ-1C Sky Warrior, the 1430-kg Northrop Grumman MQ-8B Fire Scout, the 1300-kg ATS Smart Eye, the 1150-kg IAI Heron1, the Boeing Hummingbird A 160T and the 970-kg Elbit Hermes 900. New projects are exemplified by the 1815kg Aurora Flight Sciences Excalibur, the twin-engined BAE Systems Mantis and Indias Aeronautical Development Establishment Rustam. At Airshow China in late 2008, China Aerospace Sciences & Technology (CASC) showed a model of the 630-kg canard configuration CH-3 drone with two AR-1 air-to-ground missiles, thought to be in the Hellfire weight class. Lighter missiles such as the 33-kg fibre-optic guided Rafael Spike-ER can extend carriage to drones such as the 630kg ATS Noble, the 550-kg Elbit Hermes 450, the 492-kg Saic Vigilante, the 350-kg Sagem Sperwer Mk II, the 210-kg Aeronautics Defense Systems Aerostar, the 200-kg Schiebel Camcopter S-100, the 170-kg AAI RQ-7B Shadow 200 and the 147-kg DRS Sentry. Extremely light weapons such as the 2.4-kg Spike (developed by the US Naval Air Warfare Center) might arm platforms such as the 82-kg Lockheed Martin Sky Spirit, the 77-kg Raytheon (formerly the Swift Engineering) Killer Bee-4 and the 43-kg Elbit Skylark II. Warloads studied earlier for the Killer Bee included the Mk 32 40-mm grenade launcher, LE Systems laser eye dazzler, Laser guidance and control kits for the General Dynamics Hydra 70 and Bristol Aerospace CRV-7 series are being developed. Notable examples include BAE Systems Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System-II (APKWS-II) and Lockheed Martins Direct Attack Guided Rocket (Dagr). A team combining Alliant Techsystems (ATK) and Elbit Systems is developing the 70-mm Guided Advanced Tactical Rocket (Gatr). In 2008 Raytheon was awarded a contract by the United Arab Emirates to work with Emirates Advanced Instruments (EAI) in developing the Talon laser-guided Hydra 70.
Developed with company funds, the turbofan-powered General Atomics Predator-C Avenger is the latest in the series, combining quick response, reduced signature and the warload of the Predator-B. (General Atomics)
and American Technologys Long Range Acoustic Device. It is anticipated that guided munitions delivery by the US Navy/Marine Corps Stuas/Tier II will be required at a later stage. Various drones in the 40-to-80-kg class are proposed. (In this programme Northrop Grumman has licensed the Bat series to Raytheon).
The Northrop Grumman X-47B, shown here in mock-up form, is the worlds leading stealthy Ucav. First flight is scheduled for 11 November 2009, and the first US Navy carrier trials are due in 2011. (Armada/RB)
Of the above, the leading example is probably the BAE Systems APKWS-II, which is now in the system development and demonstration phase. Since late 2008 it has been directed by the US Navy, taking over from the US Army. It is anticipated that production will begin at the end of 2009, primarily for the US Marine Corps Bell AH-1W. Turkeys Rocketsan is meanwhile developing the all-new Cirit 70-mm rocket with laser guidance, initially for the AgustaWestland T-129 attack helicopter. Tests firings are scheduled for later in 2009 followed by production start in 2010. Whereas these laser-guided rockets require target designation to continue throughout missile flight, the US Navys Low-Cost Guided Imaging Rocket (Logir), being jointly developed with South Korea, will provide a true fire-andforget weapon. It is being suggested that the conventional warhead of a 70-mm rocket may be augmented by an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) damage mechanism. Even if the targeted tank were not penetrated, it would then have no ignition or electronics.
22
Drones: armed
Russia appears to be following the US pattern for Unmanned Combat Air Vehicles, the RAC-MiG Skat mock-up unveiled at Maks 2007 looking much like the Boeing X-45 project. (RAC-MiG)
modules of the GIWS (Rheinmetall/Diehl) Smart 155 artillery round.
Fighter Drones
The armed drones so far discussed are basically sensor platforms that have varying levels of ground-attack capability. Such aircraft have achieved considerable significance in recent years, but would suffer heavy losses if faced by an integrated air-defence system. If conventional aircraft are to operate over the latest access-denial systems with tolerable attrition rates, these ground defences must be reduced in effectiveness by newer airborne assets, probably combining cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and Ucavs (dedicated fighter drones). Weapon tests paving the way for Ucavs have included the release of a Mk 82 bomb from Northrop Grummans Scaled Composites Proteus demonstrator in March 2005. In January 2008 the US Air Force carried out a firing of a 363-kg Raytheon Harm missile from a QF-4 Phantom drone.
Another weapon that would lend itself to arming drones is the IAI anti-armour Lahat, as evidenced by this quad pack (normally for helicopters) under the wing of a Heron TP at the 2007 Paris Air Show. (Armada/EHB)
In the context of guidance and control kits for existing ordnance, it may be noted that GPS-guided mortar bombs are being developed by General Dynamics (81 mm, 4.5 kg) and ATK (120 mm, 17.7 kg).
Viper Strike
Following the Hellfire AGM-114P (with expanded seeker travel to suit medium level firings), the next major US drone armament development has been the 20kg Northrop Grumman GBU-44/B Viper Strike, a laser-guided derivative of the Bat unpowered acoustic-homing antiarmour submunition. The Viper Strike has been employed by the US Army in Iraq, using as platform the 816-kg Northrop Grumman MQ-5B Hunter. The first strike occurred on 1 September 2007, when personnel of the Unmanned Aerial Surveillance Company of the 25th Infantry Division attacked insurgents planting a roadside bomb near Qayyarah. The missile is carried in a tube and is ejected forwards following release of the tube from the drone. The manufacturer is reportedly trying to reduce the weight of the missile to 11.3 kg, to make it suitable for the 168-kg AAI RQ-7B Shadow 200. The Viper Strike is also being supported by the US Air Force Special Operations Command as armament for the Lockheed Martin AC-130. Designated Special Operations Precision Guided Munition (Sopgm), this development employs GPS/INS for mid-course guidance. In a slightly lighter category, Raytheon is exploiting its experience with the FGM-148 Javelin anti-armour missile and Ergm guided artillery round to develop a 20-kg air-launched weapon named Grif-
fin. Some observers suspect that the CIA has funded this development. Thales is developing the 12.7-kg Lightweight Multirole Missile (LMM) for drone applications. It could be in service as early as 2011.A later version will have a wing kit to extend range to 20 km. The US Armys longer-term plans for the Sky Warrior and Fire Scout include an anti-radiation missile to attack the GCS of enemy drones, and a family of urban warfare air-to-surface missiles weighing only 0.9 kg.
More Submunitions
Lightweight anti-armour missiles already exist in the form of guided submunitions. One of the leaders in this field is Textron Systems, which produces the 3.4-kg Skeet.This is dispensed spinning from the 29-kg four-round BLU-108/B, to provide an inward-spiralling ground-scan with its infrared sensor, which detonates the selfforging warhead. One derivative is the 4.5-kg STS (Selectively-Targeted Skeet), which has a Samara Wing and tangential rockets to provide the necessary spin. A recent development in submunitions is Textrons 29-kg Alternate Payload Bomb Live Unit (AP-BLU), an unguided cylindrical fragmentation warhead that in the case of manned aircraft is dispensed from the GPS/INS-guided ten-round 450kg Clean Area Weapon (Claw). For drones a single BLU-108 or APBLU (or five STS in tandem) can be carried in Textrons new Universal Aerial Delivery Dispenser, which is GPS guided and has an empty weight of 18.2 kg. The submunitions are ejected axially forwards, breaking off the dispensers nosecap. Other submunitions include the 6.5-kg Bofors Defence/Nexter Bonus and the twin
The Thales Lightweight Multirole Missile (LMM) is shown mounted on the BAE Systems Fury drone, an armed reconnaissance and close support derivative of the companys Herti sensor platform. (BAE Systems)
The first production Ucav is likely to be General Atomics jet-powered Predator-C or Avenger, which first flew on 4 April 2009. The Avenger has a Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545B turbofan, a reduced radar signature, a foldable wing and an internal weapons bay for 120-kg class guided bombs. The US Navys Ucav-D programme, based on the 20,200-kg Northrop Grumman X-47B demonstrator, was launched in August 2007. The first of two air vehicles is due to fly on 11 November 2009, followed by the second around one month later. Carrier trials are scheduled for 2011. If successful, the X-47B could provide the US Navy with an unmanned option for an F/A-XX around 2025. The industries of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland are co-operating on the Dassault-led Neuron programme, the drone of which is due to fly in late 2011. Russia is developing its own combat drone in the form of the RAC-MiG Skat (Skate), which was unveiled at Maks 2007. At Zhuhai in 2008 China showed models of two projects: the Warrior Eagle and Shenyang a Dark Sword.
24
Naval: weapons
The Oto Melara 76/62 Super Rapid is capable of 120 rds/min sustained fire
The rise of the ship-based anti-aircraft, anti-surface and land-attack missile followed the initial development of missile technology by Germany during World War Two. It was said that the birth of the missile heralded the death of the naval gun. Gone were the days of warships smashing each other to pieces with their shells; the post-war years developments allowed naval combatants to prosecute their aircraft, land and enemy shipping targets from stand-off ranges with high-speed missiles.
Thomas Withington
aval guns remained on ships, but their calibres steadily reduced from the Mk VII 16-inch guns used by the US Navys Iowa class battleships (although these vessels remained in service until after the end of the Cold War and did use their guns in anger during the Cold War period). Naval guns still had a place in post-war naval tactics, but were primarily intended for shore bombardment, anti-aircraft fire and close-in defence against aircraft and missiles. However, eighteen years after the last gun onboard the USS Missouri fell silent after bombarding Iraqi coastal positions in Kuwait during Operation Desert Storm, the naval gun is enjoying a renaissance. While no-one would seriously suggest that the anti-ship missile is about to be replaced by the heavy gun in this role, the need to attack coastal targets in support of amphibious operations, to engage small vessels like pirate boats or drug smugglers and the requirement to defend a vessel against ever more sophisticated missiles, aircraft and waterborne terrorist
threats mean that the naval gun is still an indispensable weapon on warship decks. Customers have a range of small(7.62 mm to 40 mm), medium- (40 to 76 mm) and heavy- (above 76 mm) calibre weapons to choose from to engage small boats, missiles and low-flying aircraft, in the case of the small-calibre weapons, plus land-based hard targets and enemy land forces with the medium and heavy-calibre weapons. Moreover, future innovations could see the development of electro-mag-
netic rail guns which could significantly improve range and striking power. BAE Systems provides an impressive spread of naval barrelled weapons across a range of calibres, including the Mk 38 Mod 2 Minor Calibre 25 mm. The type can engage small boats and fast surface targets and uses the Rafael Mk 25 Typhoon weapon system (see below) and the Alliant Techsystems M242 Bushmaster gun. The Bushmasters rate-of-fire is 180 rounds per minute (rds/min) and it has a range of 1.3 nautical miles (nm). Also in the BAE Systems stable are the Bofors 40 Mk 3 and Bofors 57 Mk 3. Reaching out to seven nm in the case of the Bofors 40 with 40 mm rounds, this weapon has a rate of fire of 220 rds/min, with the Bofors 57 57-mm firing 200 rds/min at a range of eight nm. The Bofors 57 has been selected for the Bertholf class National Security Cutters operated by the United States Coast Guard (USCG).
BAE Systems has delivered over 90 Mk 38 Mod 2 Stabilized Minor Calibre Guns worldwide. Integral to the weapon is the Rafael Mk 25 Typhoon weapon system. The gun can also be remotely commanded from a ships Combat Information Center. (BAE Systems)
Naval: weapons
The Advanced Gun System produced by BAE Systems is designed as a next generation heavycalibre weapon for US Navy and US Marine Corps operations in littoral and coastal regions. The gun has an automatic munitions handling system. (BAE Systems)
Mk 30-1/2, Millenium 35 mm and the 155 mm Monarc concept demonstrator (a naval adaptation of the PzH 2000 howitzer turret). The companys Mk 20 DM5 Automatic Cannon is the armament for the S20 Pintle Mount which is ideal for small vessels given that the weapon has low recoil. The MLG 25, meanwhile, has a non-deck penetrating design that frees up the number of locations where this weapon can be mounted and is ideal for all sizes of surface combatant. Rheinmetalls MLG 27 weapon can engage shore, land and air targets and be used as secondary armament on large vessels or as the primary on smaller craft. In terms of the weapons range, it can hit surface targets at 2.1 nm and aerial targets at 1.3 nm. As regards small calibre weapons,
One of Nexters most recent naval weapon systems is the Narwhal, which has been ordered by Kuwait. The day-and-night gyro-stabilised remotely controlled system is based on the companys well-proven 20 mm gun technology. (Nexter)
Although in nowhere near the usage of small- and medium-calibre weapons, heavy-calibre guns are used by several navies. BAE Systems Mk 45 Mod 4 127 mm outfits the Flight-8A Arleigh Burke class destroyers, with the Mod 2 version being deployed on the Ticonderoga class guided missile cruisers operated by the US Navy (although these vessels are being retrofitted with the Mod 4 version, which has a longer barrel). BAE Systems also offers the Advanced Gun System (AGS) which is scheduled to equip the Zumwalt class guided missile destroyers to provide a 155 mm weapon capable of firing ten rds/min with a range of 64 nm.
Europe
Britains MSI Defence Systems builds small-calibre systems such as the DS25/30 30-mm weapon. This is being installed on the Royal Navys Type-23 Duke class frigates. The DS25/30 has a reduced radar and infrared signature and gyro-stabilisaKuwait has also become a customer for the Rheinmetall 27 mm MLG 27 Mauser Light Gun system, which was installed as part of the coast guards purchase of VT Halter Marines Mk V-C fast interception boats. This represented
Claimed by BAE Systems to be the most compact naval gun of its kind in the world, the company has sold the Mk 45 Mod 4 to the US Navy and nine other forces. (BAE Systems)
the companys MLG 30 uses air-burst ammunition and can reach similar ranges to the MLG 27. Finally, with a 1000 rds/min rate-of-fire, the companys Millennium 35 mm naval gun has a range of up to 2.7 nm. Single- and twin-mount weapons produced by Rheinmetall include the Mk 30-1, which has a 1.6 nm range while the twin-barrelled Mk 30-2 has what the company claims is the highest rate of fire for a 30 x 173 mm calibre weapon. At the heavier end of the spectrum is Rheinmetalls 155 mm Monarc system, which was co-developed with KraussMaffei Wegmann, Thales Nederland and ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems. The
tion. Nexter Systems builds the Naval Remote Weapon Highly Accurate Lightweight-20A gun mounting, a.k.a Narwhal20A, which can carry an array of guns. These include Nexters M621 20 mm, the DCNS/Nexter M693 20 mm, MS11 25 mm or the Nexter M781 30 mm weapons. Tests of the Narwhal have been completed on the Subahi class patrol vessels operated by the Kuwaiti Coast Guard.
the first international sale for the weapon which had, up until then, only been used by the Deutsche Marine (German Navy). The MLG 27 Mauser is designed to bridge the gap between 20 mm and larger 40 mm systems. Like BAE Systems, Rheinmetall produces a range of naval barrelled weapons including the S20 Pintle Mount, 20 mm Mk 20 DM5, 25 mm MLG 25, 30 mm MLG 30, 30 mm
Like Nexters Narwhal, Rheinmetalls MLG 27 relies on existing airborne gun applications, namely the Mauser 27 mm. It fires, inter alia, specifically developed frangible rounds. (Rheinmetall)
Naval: weapons
Rheinmetalls Millennium 35 mm Naval Gun System is the only mediumcalibre naval gun which is capable of attacking fast moving air threats at ranges of up to 2.4 nm, according to the company. (Armada/TW)
gun for Germanys F-125 frigates. This takes the form of the 127-mm 127/64 Light Weight Naval Gun Mount. The weapon has a range of up to 54 nm and complements the companys 127/54 Compact Gun Mount designed for destroyers and frigates. It is worth noting that the F-125 vessels are also outfitted with Oto Melaras Hitrole 12.7-mm remote-controlled gun turrets, which have an extended depression capability enabling the guns to hit targets at very close range.
Self Defence
Although producing a small-calibre product, Raytheon has nevertheless carved out an impressive niche supplying its famous Phalanx Close-In Weapon System. Since the types debut in 1980, over 850 examples have sold across the world to 21 countries. The Phalanx can deliver a devastating 4500 rds/min which can turn an anti-ship missile sized target into little more than dead metal. The Block 1B upgrade for the weapon was initiated in 2005 and adds the ATK 20 mm Mk 244 Enhanced Lethality Cartridge to the gun, along with a new search-and-track radar, a flir system and improvements to the weapons barrel life. BAE Systems selected Rafael Advanced Defence Systems Mk 25 Typhoon Naval Stabilised Weapons Station for its Mk 38 Mod 2 gun. The Mk 25 Typhoon is in turn based on the OWS-25 Overhead Weapons Station that Rafael developed for the Achzarit, Puma and M113A2 Ultra armoured vehicles used by the Tzva HaHagana LeYisra'el (Israel Defense Force). As a naval system, the Mk 25 Typhoon has been sold to Australia, Greece, India, Singapore and Sri Lanka. It has also been purchased by the Heil HaYam HaYisraeli (Israeli Sea Corps). Denel produces the 35DPG 35-mm gun, which has a range of 2.15 nm and 3.2 nm against air and sea threats respectively. The weapon outfits the South African Navys Valour class frigates. Kongsberg of Norway also produces a small-calibre system in the shape of the Sea Protector, which includes a 12.7-mm Browning M2
One of the most famous naval barrelled selfprotection weapons is the Raytheon Phalanx. Belching out over 4000 rds/min, the gun gives excellent protection against incoming threats such as anti-ship missiles. (Raytheon)
rationale behind the Monarc was to develop a system that could use the gun turret from a PzH2000 self-propelled howitzer, but which could be mounted on a ship and would have a range of 21.5 nm. The weapon was originally to have outfitted the F-125 class frigates, although the integration of the weapon reportedly proved difficult and instead the Oto Melara 127/64 Light Weight Gun Mount (see below) was selected.
Oto Melara
Along with Rheinmetall, BAE Systems, Nexter and MSI Defence, Europes other major naval gun producer is Italys Oto Melara. The small-calibre weapons include the 12.7 mm Mod 517 gun and the M584 Modular Gun System which offers a choice of Oerlikon Contraves or ATK M242 Bushmaster 1 for the 25 mm fit, or the Mauser Mk 30-2 or ATK Mk 44 Bushmaster 2 as 30 mm armament. A similar modular approach has been employed for the companys Marlin-WS 30 mm gun, which was selected for the Holland class support ships of the Koninklijke Marine (Royal Netherlands Navy) with installation earmarked for completion by 2011. With a 450 rds/min rate-of-fire, Oto Melaras Single Fast Forty Multi-purpose Naval Gun Mount is designed to engage surface vessels and aircraft, while the Single-30 30 mm weapon offers a rate of fire of 700 rds/min and a choice of a 25 mm gun if desired by the customer. At the heavier end, Oto Melaras Twin 40L70 Compact Naval Gun Mount can dispense up to 600 rds/min, with the option to increase the rate of fire to 900 rds/min with the installation of a pair of Single Fast Forty guns. The Twin 40L70 has proven very popular and has been sold to 20 navies. Also able to hit surface and air threats is the 76-mm 76/62 Compact Naval Gun Mount which, the company says, can be installed on any type of surface vessel and can fire 100 rds/min. The 76/62 Super Rapid version has been selected to equip the Aquitaine class Fremm multi-purpose frigates of the Marine Nationale (French Navy). This version will feature a lowobservable gun cupola, the first of which
Oto Melaras Marlin-WS has the option for either 25 or 30 mm ammunition. The modular construction gives customers a flexible design and the weapon can also be linked to a customer-specified electro-optical system. (Oto Melara)
will be installed in 2009 with the second following in 2011, the remainder being completed at five-month intervals. As mentioned above, Oto Melara secured the contract to produce the main
10
Naval: weapons
As well as the large- and mediumcalibre naval guns, the US Navy still uses smaller-calibre weapons for general short range defence. This includes equipment like the Gatling GAU-17A Minigun. (US Navy)
Electromagnetic Guns
The US Navy may choose to abandon traditional gun designs altogether in favour of an electro-magnetic weapon that could accelerate a shell to speeds of up to Mach seven. The Electro-Magnetic Rail Gun (EMRG) initiative calls for the development of a gun that could fire a shell to a range of around 188 nm using an electrically powered weapon. The destruction of the target would be realised with the sheer kinetic energy of the projectile. The gun will use electro-magnets to give the shell an extremely high muzzle velocity, supplying the projectile with both its hitting power and range. Aside from the reach and strength of the weapon, one of the major advantages could be the elimination of chemical propellants and explosives that need to be stored onboard warships. However, there is much work to do before such weapons are ready for installation on tomorrows US Navy surface combatants. The energy consumption of the EMRG is still quite large. As a comparison, a test firing of a prototype landThe future face of destruction: the US Navys ElectroMagnetic Rail Gun could deliver highly destructive effects over a very long range. The weapon would also eliminate the need to store the explosive propellants on a ship, which can constitute a major safety hazard. (US Navy)
and M240 7.62-mm machine gun, both of which are positioned on a stabilised mount that absorbs the weapons recoil. Thales Nederland, for its part, produces the Goalkeeper system, which can fire up to 4200 rds/min against anti-ship missiles out to just beyond one nautical mile. However, with a weight of 9902 kg and 2.5 metres of deck penetration, the Goalkeeper is primarily designed for larger ships.
The US Navy, meanwhile, is also looking towards acquiring new munition to equip its guns and BAE Systems has partnered with Lockheed Martin to develop the 127-mm Long Range Land Attack Projectile for the Advanced Gun System (see above). To this end, the efforts of both companies have thus far yielded a
Rationalising Rounds
The Royal Navy is currently in the market for a 155 mm heavy weapon and has commissioned the Centre for Operational Research and Defence Analysis (Corda) at BAE Systems to study the options. The centre is examining the feasibility of using the 155 mm shells of the British Armys AS90 self-propelled howitzer as part of the Future Coastal Suppression Concept Study. The rationale behind the employment of 155-mm ammunition is not only to provide the Royal Navy with more striking power, but also to slim down the navys logistical burden by allowing a common munition to be used by the heavy armament of both services. The aim is to integrate the 155-mm shell with the Mk 8 Mod 1 gun mount currently used by the Royal Navy on its destroyers and frigates. Test-firings are expected this year.
test flight of the projectile over a 59 nautical mile range. An integrated Global Positioning System/Inertial Navigation System ensures the accuracy of the round, which is reported to have a circular error probable in the region of around 50 metres.
Kongsbergs Sea Protector system can host a number of different guns and has been designed as a remote-controlled weapon station. The design is based on Kongsbergs M151 Protector product used on General Dynamics Land Systems M1126 Stryker vehicles. (Armada/TW)
based weapon at the US Naval Surface Warfare Center at Dahlgren, Virginia, accelerated the projectile to Mach Seven which enabled the 90 mm shell to embed itself up to 20 metres into shipping containers filled with sand. The US Navy is looking for the electromagnetic gun to have a hitting power of around 64 megajoules of energy, which is roughly the equivalent to a freight train travelling at 96 km/h. Yet to reach such levels, the gun would have to develop 120 megajoules, which would require around 40 gigawatts of electricity. As a comparison, a heat wave in Chicago in 1995 required the generation of 19 gigawatts of electricity to keep the citys air conditioning systems working. Such levels of power could task a ships electrical system to the limit. Moreover, moving shells at such high speeds through the barrel could trigger its rapid degradation. These are serious challenges to overcome and yet the Navy wants to be in a position to test a 110-nmrange gun in 2016, with a weapon ready to be fielded by 2025. The Navy envisages that the ERMG could then be retroa fitted onto older vessels.
12
Technology
Satellite systems, such as Lockheed Martins AEHF, will soon be relayiing unbreakeable quantum crypto messages
Tactical radios, battlespace computer networks, rugged laptops and tablet computers, wide-area networks at headquarters essentially all communication devices require some sort of cryptographic protection. Conversely, a bevy of highly co-ordinated hackers, some even financed by rogue governments, are standing at the ready to accept the challenge offered by what industry may view as powerful encryption; and what the hackers view as mere childs play.
this the fact that, purportedly, it takes one trained user quietly parked in a secluded spot near an urban combat zone with one of todays highly advanced signal analyzers to jeopardize what was hitherto believed to be a perfectly secure battlefield communication system.
Johnny Keggler
n 1 April 2009 Elcomsoft, arguably the US leader in password recovery software, reported a new discovery in breaking cryptographic algorithms with a shamans tambourine (http://www.elcomsoft.com/tambourine. html?r1=pr&r2=april1). While this may sound like some sort of joke (please note the date) the companys real products are testament to how easy breaking into password-protected computers and documents can be with legal off-the-shelf products. To continue this thread, the same companys website blog mentions that newlyreleased open source hardware and software solution is available, for testing the security level of ones own wireless keyboard transmissions or to demonstrate sniffing attacks. The universal wireless keyboard sniffer Keykeriki was designed to be small and versatile, but with expandable capabilities. A keyboard sniffer detects and records keystrokes. Hackers aside for a moment, Eltima Software offers an over-the-counter, totally legal keystroke logging software package called Power Keylogger. The company insists that this program, secretly monitors and captures all keystrokes, mouse clicks, passwords, visited web-pages and launched applications; tracks received and sent e-mails and lots more.
There are innumerable websites to be found that are dedicated to computer hacking, e.g., www.geniushackers.com provides a list of the worlds top ten best hackers (the most respected). Casual surfing has uncovered a white paper detailing how a group of three hackers from the University of Luxembourg constructed a chosen-key distinguisher and a related-key attack on the full 256-bit key AES encryption algorithm. Add to
Closing Doors
In late 2008 Thales Australia developed a new cryptography team to provide a range of certified network encryption for high-security environments. This will include data security and key management, Layer 2 and 3 IP encryption and VoIP secure communication. Nato has selected the Cryptel IP secure VPN (Virtual Private Network) from Thales as its standard IP cryptographic
The Sectra Tiger XS encryption products provide the Nordic Battlegroup with secure land-based and satellite-routed communication between command centres, vehicles and dismounted troops. The user interface was designed in such a way that the system can be operated as if it were a cell phone. (Sectra)
50
Technology
This image from Austrias Mils Electronic illustrates just how complex upper-level echelon communication security can be. A veritable tower of cryptographic equipment, USB encryption keys and network connections are often required to ensure message traffic protection. (Mils Electronic)
Complex Locks
Austrias Mils Electronic provides onetime key (OTK) algorithms along with its Mils Block Cipher and optional AES encryption to its customers. The company can deliver OTKs or more than 100 MB using true random noise generators through the M111 Security Controller chip of its Milscard this length crypto key sounds most involved but Mils contends that to provide a truly unbreakable stream cipher encryption algorithm the key must be as long as the plain text, it must be truly random and must be used only once. The Advanced Encryption Standard is the successor to the original Data Encryption Standard and was adopted in 2001. These are both block cipher designs (as opposed to a stream cipher). AES was developed by two Belgian cryptographers, Joan Daemen and Vincent Rijmen.
The Taclane-micro (KG175D) from General Dynamics C4 Systems was introduced in December 2007 as the industrys smallest and lightest fullbandwidth, inline network encryptor. The rugged unit provides 200 Mbps throughput, is certified to Top Secret codeword and is compliant with NSAs Haipe IS. (GDC4S)
equipment. The companys TCE 621/B and 621/C allow centralized security management and cover Tempest AMSG 720B protocol. The Cryptel IP is certified to protect data from French Secret and Norway NSM High Grade classified to Nato Cosmic Top Secret, and offers up to 100 Mbps full duplex data rate. A VPN is essentially a computer network in which some links are carried by third-party networks (usually the Internet). The VPN creates a tunnel in which cryptographic tunneling protocols prevent snooping or packet sniffing, authentication blocks any attempts at identity spoofing and can therefore provide message integrity. In May 2009 the US Air Force awarded a General Dynamics C4 Systems-led team, that includes SAIC, Ultra Electronics-Prologic and General Dynamics Information Technology, a $ 30 million, six-year contract to design and install the Remote Rekey Modernization programme, which allows the remote, central management of cryptographic keys for equipment located
throughout the 50 US states. The RRK technology will also be used to update information security for the IFF systems protecting US airspace. RRK design and development will last until 2012 with implementation schedules for Northcom air-defence systems in 2013.
AES has a block size of 128 bits and three possible key sizes, 128, 192 and 256 bits. The US Government certified AES to protect classified information in systems approved by NSA. Mils VPN products use a customizable version of the Mils Block Cypher, allowing unique algorithms to be implemented into a system. Mils VPN uses exclusively generated cryptographic keys and highly advanced intrusion detection/prevention methods. With this level of security, a misplaced rugged laptop can be thought of as truly rugged. The company adds that the only way to ensure a 100% unbreakable cipher method is the simple one-time key. Mils random one-time key stream is not generated by an algorithm or formula but from a true random noise source. Once used the key stream is destroyed immediately so the same key cannot be used again, even by accident.
European Standard
The US Coast Guard and many highlevel European ministries communicate using Tetra networks, developed by Swedens Sectra for European government authorities and defence departments. The company launched what it claims is the first truly independent solution, a digital
A graphic view of the coverage afforded by Sectras Tiger XS VoIP encryption system. The Nordic Battlegroup uses the Tiger XS to make secure calls over commercial lines and the Internet. (Sectra)
52
Technology
encrypt multicast data using a pre-placed key. Other Haipe devices include the L-3 Communications KG-245X (offering up to ten Gbps), General Dynamics Taclane (Tactical Local Area Network Encryption) KG-175 and the Ectocryp from Eads.
Hiring the Heavies

In October 2008 Lockheed Martin established a new Center for Cyber Security Innovation to use integrated cyber security technologies and a defense-in-depth approach for its own and customers networked systems; in June 2009 Raytheon completed acceptance testing for its Distributed Common Ground System Integration Backbone intelligence-sharing software that is installed in more than 100 systems around the world; May 2009 Austrian physicists discovered a new breakthrough in quantum cryptography which would allow unbreakable encrypted messages to be bounced off satellites With the advent of VoIP and over-theair IP radios the encryption methods once confined to specific domains (airwaves, Ethernet networks, Internet) are
The programmable Alsace KG-250M from Viasat of Carlsbad, California, is an NSAcertified Haipe IS version 3 in-line network encryptor that provides Type 1 multi-suite security for communication up to Top Secret/SCI. Haipe IS v3 adds IPV6 and advanced networking features. (Viasat)
radio cryptographic design that is embedded into a smart card that is inserted into a Tetra terminal, whereas users can use any voice terminal to communicate. Swedens Defense Material Administration ordered Sectras Tiger XS voice encryptor for the Nordic Battlegroup, which includes 2800 soldiers from Sweden, Finland, Norway, Estonia and Ireland. The Tiger XS provides IP-based communication over satellite links, and the soldiers can make secure calls over national landline and GSM networks. The Tiger XS voice encryptor has been approved to pass mobile voice communication up to and including Secret UE, and the companys tactical encryptor can be mounted in vehicles or carried married to a tactical radio.
In May 2009 the security authority of the Netherlands invested SEK 15 million for the ongoing development of Sectras Tiger XS systems for use in all Dutch ministries, for secretaries of state and the Dutch defence forces.
Whats the Haipe?

Viasat offers its KG-250M and -250T encryptors for airborne platforms such as helicopters, aircraft and drones (the -250M is also cleared for Humvee-types). The KG250M is reportedly the first Type 1 Haipe device specifically designed for secure networking on mobile platforms. High Assurance Internet Protocol Encryptors (Haipe - now Haipe IS) are NSA-compliant Type 1 devices that can
P.A.S.S.W.O.R.D.
ncryption comes in many forms, not the least of which is one of the first lines of defence: the password. Secure Computing announced the results of a commissioned study that surveyed 100 IT professionals and security decision makers in companies with 500 or more employees. The results revealed that over 70% have no data loss prevention system safeguards for corporate e-mail, and only 28% had implemented a system to prevent data leaks. Add to this the well-known fact that around 34% of computer users still use the word Password as their computer system login, and one finds what effectively amounts to a hackers paradise.
The US National Security Agency has recently certified Release 2.0 of the Sectra Edge smartphone. This Secure Mobile Environment Personal Electronic Device is Scip and Haipe IS compliant and operates with Taclane encryptors over the US Governments Secure Internet Protocol Router Network. (General Dynamics C4 Systems)
now called upon to protect from attacks on all quarters. Technology is bustling along, keeping pace with threats from simple interception to well-planned and executed hacking assaults. A former Vice Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff suggested, Cyberattack is too important a subject for the nation to be discussed only behind closed doors. Governments are fully aware of the threats to defence assets and are beginning to adopt a more flexible approach to the problems; this is illustrated by the June 2009 hiring of the Dark Tangent by the US Homeland Security agency advisory council. The Dark Tangent a.k.a. Jeff Moss, is the creator of the Defcom hacking community (which will have its 17th annual meeting in Las Vegas). Measures such as this may seem a bit extreme, but why would one not recruit the best examples of a threat to help in developing innovative defensive and a offensive strategies?
54
Naval: small craft
The Impact Rib from Brunswick is built with a fibreglass hull and fabric tube
For marine and riverine operations, special operations forces typically have several types of insertion craft at their disposal to get commandoes and their equipment from a mother ship, or from over-the-horizon, to their objective. Principally, they make use of surface craft such as rigid or non-rigid inflatable boats, assault craft, canoes and sub-surface vessels such as swimmer delivery vehicles.
Thomas Withington
igid inflatable boats, assault boats and canoes have obvious attractions to commandoes. The first two are fast and can carry a number of troops and their equipment. The craft also maintain a relatively low profile, making them hard to spot from land or from a distance, even more so when the craft are operating at night. The small size of these vessels also makes them easy and unobtrusive to carry in a cargo aircraft, below a helicopter or on a ship. Canoes cannot carry quite the volume of the assault craft or boat, but as they are powered by the commandoes themselves paddling with oars, they are extremely quiet and can approach the target in almost complete silence. Interestingly, boats and canoes are also relatively inexpensive. This gives them a high degree of expendability, meaning that they can be destroyed once a team has arrived at its objective to ensure that the group leaves no trace of its movements. In the case of the canoe, they can be folded up and packed away in readiness to cross other waterways they may encounter later in the mission. Several companies around the world in Europe, the Middle East and the United States are producing assault craft, boats, canoes and swimmer delivery vehicles. For example, CMN of France produces the Intercepteur DV15 class of high-speed
insertion craft. With a top speed over 50 knots (kt) these small boats can carry up to four occupants. Constructed from carbon fibre and epoxy resin, the craft can also house integrated communication and navigation suites. The companys DV33 design has a slightly lower top speed of 45 kt, but larger accommodation for up to ten occupants. The DV33 displaces around 85 tonnes and can also be outfitted with guns and short-range surface-to-surface and
surface-to-air missiles, in addition to surveillance radar, electro-optics and a combat management system. Also based in France, Sillinger offers a number of assault boats including the 3.82-metre, 24-kt 380UM, which can carry seven. The larger 4.2-metre, eightseater capacity 425UM can reach 25 kt, a similar speed to the companys 5.2metre-long 525UM design, with a capacity of 12 to 14 passengers. The ten-passenger 4.7-metre 470UM craft has a top speed of 30 kt, along with the 630UM boat which can reach similar speeds and accommodate 20 in its 6.4-metre hull. The companys 570UM 5.7-metre, 24-kt boat can carry 16. Sillinger also produces rigid inflatables; the figure in the designation indicates the length in centimetres: the
Sillinger of France builds several assault boats which can carry up to 20 personnel, as is the case of this 630UM, but eight other models are available for use as insertion craft. (Sillinger)
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Naval: small craft
The Zodiac portfolio also comprises the Hurricane range, which are fully customised rigid inflatable models; from 4.7 to eleven metres in length. The range consists of aluminium or glass-reinforced plastic hulls, air or foam collar, inboard or outboard power and most of the larger models have options for cabins. They are used by military and paramilitary organisations with the option of air transport and airdrop capability. The latest use a stepped hull for speeds in excess of 60 kt.
struction and an 11.5-metre length. Damens Interceptor 1503 has a hull length of 15 metres, plus a similar construction and top speed to the 1202 craft. The 2004 model has a 20-metre hull length and can reach speeds of up to 50 kt. Finally, the largest vessel in the series is the 2604 with a 26.1-metre length and a 51-kt top speed. Both the 2604 and 2004 models have an aluminium construction.
Swedish Mettle
At the heavier end of the dedicated insertion craft spectrum is the Combatboat-
Canoes
In terms of canoes, Nautiraid of France produces the SB Commando Mk VI twoseater kayak which is used by the French Army and Navy. The craft has a length of 5.4 metres and weighs 40 kg. The SB Commando Mk VI can also carry up to 350 kg. Arguably the most famous canoe in the special forces world is the Klepper Kayak. These folding canoes produced by Klepper in Germany can carry two and are up to 5.3-metres long.
Zodiac boats have emerged as a particular favourite of special forces worldwide. Here is seen an FC530 being used in rescue operations during Hurricane Katrina in the United States in 2005. (Zodiac)
330 Rib UM, 380 Rib UM and the 425, 470, 490, 525, 650 and 765 Ribs. These boats can carry between five and 22 people depending on sea condition.
From Race to Intercept

Usually associated with producing highspeed racing boats, Italys Fabio Buzzi has developed the High Speed Intercept Craft, which displaces around 6.3 tonnes and can carry one 40-mm Mk 40 grenade launcher, a single 12.7-mm machine gun or two 7.62-mm weapons. The company builds a host of other vessels suitable for commando missions including the Rib 242 which can reach speeds of up to 26 kt, the Rib 33 and Rib 33SC which can reach speeds in excess of 53 kt. The SC version is particularly suitable for insertion missions, given its extended cockpit and accommodation for up to twelve. Damen Shipbuilding of the Netherlands builds the Interceptor series of fast boats which includes the 1202, 1503, 2004 and 2604 models. The 1202 is capable of speeds up to 55 kt, has an aluminium conZodiacs F470 Rib is designed for military small boat operations. The craft can also be outfitted with inflatable armoured panels to afford the occupants a degree of protection against small arms fire and to protect the boat against abrasion. (Zodiac)
Zodiac
No mention of insertion craft would be complete without discussing Zodiac of France. The company's inflatables and rigid inflatables are a standard item in the waterborne commando's tool bag. Zodiac produces a wide range of military products including the inflatable boat ranges of Grand Raid (4.2 to 4.7 metres), Heavy Duty (5.3 to 7 metres), Series G (3.8 to 4.7 metres) and most widely recognised and used by the special ops community, the Futura Commando, which includes four models with lengths ranging from 4.2 to 5.3 metres. Zodiac also produces 'catalogue' types in the sea rigid inflatable range including the SRMN and the more sophisticated SRR.
One of the attractions of rigid inflatable boats for special forces operations is the relative ease with which the craft can be transported or delivered, as is illustrated here with a US Navy boat that was air-dropped from a Lockheed Martin C-130 transport aircraft. (US Navy)
90H craft produced by Dockstavarvet of Sweden. This craft can travel at up to 45 kt when laden with up to 4.5 tonnes of cargo or 21 troops. For self-defence, the vessel can be equipped with machine guns or a remote-controlled weapon station that can be commanded from the boats wheelhouse. Even a 120-mm mortar has been installed on the CB-90H, giving it significant firepower.
UAE Specials
Asis Boats of the United Arab Emirates produces a wide range of military rigid inflatable boats. These include the S-6-5, S-8-0 and S-9-5 designs with lengths of 6.4, 7.8 and 9.8 metres respectively. These craft can carry nine, twelve and 16 occupants (1.9, 2.8 and 4.2 tonnes at full displacement). Their maximum speeds range from 27 to 31 kt. Other company offerings include the eight-metre STL-8-0, which can carry either 13 personnel or two tonnes of cargo. Emirates Marine Technologies builds swimmer delivery vehicles, notably the Class 5 design with a carbon-fibre construction. The vessel is
57
Naval: small craft
mandoes are the CRRC 450 and CRRC 520Mk 2 Combat Rubber Raiding Craft. Both of these vessels can be air-dropped or deployed from a submarine. The 4.5metre CRRC 450 can carry up to 730 kg of cargo or up to ten personnel. This craft can also reach speeds of 20 kt. The 5.2 CRRC 520Mk 2, meanwhile, can carry up to 1136 kg of cargo or up to twelve troops and can travel at similar speeds to the CRRC 450 model. Avon is joined by Delta Group in Britain, which has produced a 10.5-metre, 43-kt patrol vessel for the Finnish Border Guard as well as a three-metre, 38-knot craft for the Irish Navy. The company has also produced 10.5-metre, 44-kt fast craft for a Middle East customer, plus a range of craft for the British Ministry of Defence including designs ranging from 6.2 to 7.9 metres capable of speeds of between 35 and 44 kt. Delta Group also
supplied the Royal Netherlands Navy with an 11.7-metre, 44-kt fast craft. Alston, Cumbria is the British home of KSA (Underwater), which builds the Subskimmer swimmer delivery vehicle. The craft can be deflated to enable it to run underwater using electrical thrusters while the crafts outboard motor is sealed. The Subskimmer has a range of five nautical miles when operating at two knots, and 100 nm when operating on the surface at 20 kt. Brunswick of the United States offers a wide range of boats suitable for insertion missions. The companys Guardian family includes several models that come in a range of sizes from 4.7 metres in length to 8.2 metres, while the Justice line offers boats with a length of between 5.7 metres and 9.7 metres. Brunswick also produces two 8.2-metre models; the Challenger and the Vigilant. The robust design
A rare sight perhaps? A Greek commando stands guard next to a Turkish Zodiac. Zodiac has sold so many types of inflatable boats over the years that the manufacturers name has become the popular way of calling this type of craft, regardless of the actual manufacture. (Nato)
9.3-metres long, contains sonar, global positioning and inertial navigation systems and has a maximum speed of over six kt. The Class 5 can carry two divers and 450 kg of payload.
From Tyre to Boat

Britains Avon Inflatables has supplied insertion craft in the form of rigid inflatable boats for many years. Two of the companys favoured products for comAvon of the United Kingdom produces the CRRC 525Mk 2. This small craft has a significant cargo capability, being able to carry around twelve troops at speeds of up to 20 kt. (Avon)
The Combatboat-90H has been one of the special forces insertion craft success stories. The design provides a high speed, the ability to carry significant loads and a hull that can be outfitted with substantial armament. (Dockstavarvet)
of Brunswicks craft has won the company orders from around the world. To this end, its vessels are used by navies and marine corps in more than 20 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America and Latin America. In March this year, Brunswick unveiled a new family of rigid inflatable boats called Impact. The company offers these boats in a range of sizes from 4.2 to 11.8-metres with a number of propulsion options including diesel, inboard, water-jet or outboard engines. Another American supplier is VT Halter Marine of Pascagoula, Mississippi. The company is best known for its High Speed Interdiction and Special Operations Craft. These boats can be constructed from aluminium; fibre reinforced plastic, steel or high-grade composites. In terms of armament, the vessels can carry small or medium-calibre weapons and missiles. Optronics and radar can also be fitted. Arguably the most famous craft constructed by VT Halter Marine is the Mk V class used by the United States
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Naval: small craft
Iraqi maritime police patrol the waterways using a Safe Boats vessel. The manufacturer has carved out a niche as a supplier of fast craft for law enforcement and military users. Safe Boats also builds the Small Riverine Craft for the US Marine Corps. (US Department of Defense)
670 in outboard, inboard and Solas rescue boat versions. Willard Marines portfolio includes the 7.3-metre Sea Force 730 offering a 1349-kg maximum capacity. Of a similar length, but with a 1679-kg capacity the company builds a rigid inflatable craft to US Navy standards, which is available in both fibreglass and aluminium construction. The elevenmetre Sea Force is also built to standard US Navy specifications and has an 8165-kg maximum capacity. Military fast boats with cabins include the Sea Force 730 Cabin offering a 2037-kg maximum capacity. A heavier cabin design is available with the 8.2-metre-long 3307-kg capacity Sea Blazer 820. Other large cabin vessels include the 10.7-metre, 10,886-kg maximum capacity Long Range Interceptor, which can reach speeds of 45 kt and the eleven-metre, 8165kg maximum capacity Sea Force Enforcer. Although it is not fitted with a cabin, the 13-metre, 1588-kg maximum capacity 43 Assault High Speed Interceptor can reach speeds of 60 kt. Finally, two of the largest cabin boats by Willard Marine include the 13.4-metre Open Ocean Fast Response, which has a maximum capacity of 15,512 kg and the 14,061-kg maximum capacity, 17-metre Sar Fire Boat.
One of the latest products from Brunswick is the Impact family. The company offers hull sizes ranging from 4.2 to twelve metres and a choice of inboard, water-jet or outboard engine propulsion options. (Brunswick)
Naval Special Warfare Command. The Mk Vs can reach 40 kt, displace 54 tonnes when fully loaded and can carry 16 fully equipped troops. Willard Marine supplies fast craft to the US Navy and Coast Guard, along with numerous other armed services around the world. The smallest craft offered by the company is the 4.9-metre Sea Force 490. Of the same length is the companys Sea Force 490 Solas rescue boat. Both of these designs have a 599-kg maximum capacity. The Sea Force 540 comes equipped with either single or twin outboard motors and is 5.4-metres long with a maximum capacity of 748 kg. Willard Marine produces the 6.7-metre, 2812-kg maximum-capacity Sea Force
VT Halter Marine of the United States builds the Mk V high-speed SOF insertion craft. The Mk V joins the Combatboat-90H as a dedicated metal-hulled boat which, despite its size, can still carry large cargoes or troop numbers at high speed. (VT Halter Marine)
Based in Seattle, Washington, Safe Boats International produces the Small Unit Riverine Craft for the United States Marine Corps. This boat has a length of twelve metres and a combat displacement of one tonne. Accommodation can be provided for up to 18 troops and the vessels can reach a sprint speed of 39 kt. At normal speeds, range is in excess of 250 nm. Three machine gun mounts are included and the boat is transportable in a Lockheed Martin C-130 fixed-wing transport or externally on a Sikorsky CH-53 helicopter. Given the growing concern regarding the increase of maritime piracy in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, the United Nations unanimously passed a resolution towards the end of 2008 allowing the pursuit of pirates on land. The craft surveyed above will provide naval commandoes across the world with the capability to approach pirates and other targets, at speed, with a lethality and stealth.
60
Artillery
Six-rocket pod loaded onto an M142 Himars at Camp Barber, Afghanistan
Multiple-launch rocket systems were originally designed on both sides of the defunct iron curtain to saturate area targets during the Cold War (interestingly, they were designated multiple-rocket launch systems on the then Soviet side). The introduction of precision-guided munitions has made it the weapon of choice for asymmetrical warfare.
Ian Kemp
ccording to Colonel David Rice, US Army Project Manager of Precision Fires Rocket and Missile Systems, The GMLRS [Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System] has brought the field artillery back into the urban fight. His statement reflects the transition of the Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control Systems Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) from a Cold War saturation weapon designed to clear grid squares to a 70-km sniper system which offers significant advantages over close air support, including faster response time and reduced collateral damage. The MLRS was developed by Lockheed Martin (then Ling Tempco Vought) and its European partners for the armies of Britain, Germany, France, Italy and the United States. Like other multiplerocket launchers, it was designed to rapidly unleash large volumes of fire against area targets. The original M26 MLRS rocket was tipped with a 156-kg warhead carrying 644 M77 Dual-Purpose Improved Conventional Munition (Dpicm) shaped-charge blast fragmentation bomblets; a single salvo of twelve rockets can completely blanket a square kilometre with these submunitions. The 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) requires the European MLRS
partners to phase out weapons such as the Dpicm. Although the US Government is not a signatory to the CCM the Department of Defenses Policy on Cluster Munitions commits the department to phasing out cluster munitions which result in more than one per cent unexploded ordnance. The MLRS system now comprises the MLRS Family of Munitions, the Army Tactical Missile (Atacms) Family of Munitions and two launchers, the original tracked M270 MLRS launcher and the newer wheeled M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (Himars).
Old and New Launchers

Designed to support heavy mechanised forces the M270 MLRS launcher is based on the stretched chassis of a BAE Systems M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle; an elevating turntable launch mechanism carries two pods each of six 227 mm rockets which can be ripple fired in less than a minute. Before production finished Lockheed Martin built 1000 M270 launchers for the US Army, while a further 292 systems were built in Europe and the USA for the European partners: France (55), Germany (150), Italy (24), and the UK (63). Additional MLRS launchers were sold to Bahrain (9), Denmark (12), Egypt (26), Greece (36), Israel (54), Japan (77), South Korea (29),
the Netherlands (22), Norway (12) and Turkey (15). Finland bought 18 of the Dutch launchers in 2006. The US Army is upgrading its launchers to the M270A1 configuration which features the Universal Fire Control System (UFCS), which enables the weapon to launch the GMLRS while an Improved Launcher Mechanical System (ILMS) allows the launcher to be aimed six times faster than the original M270. The first upgraded launchers were returned to service in 2002. Several international customers are upgrading their launchers to the comparable M270C1 export configuration. Britain installed the UFCS on 15 launchers to upgrade them to the M270B1 configuration and a battery of launchers has been deployed in Afghanistan since April 2007. These have received further upgrades including; bar armour around the cab with appliqu armour plates beneath and mine protection plating, new energy absorbing seats, an enhanced day and night vision capability from three thermal imaging cameras with screens for driver and vehicle commander, a roofmounted machine gun and air conditioning. To support the extra weight the vehicles suspension has been upgraded. The US Army Aviation and Missile Command, on behalf of the British Ministry of Defence, awarded Lockheed Martin a $ 59 million contract in March 2009 for additional UFCS kits to upgrade another twelve launchers. This followed the ministrys decision in May 2008 to cancel the planned acquisition of the Lightweight Mobile Artillery Weapons System (Rocket) a lightweight launcher developed by Lockheed Martin UK Insys
26
Artillery
A US Army Multiple Launch Rocket System launcher fires a GMLRS rocket during operations in Iraq. (US Army)
based on an HMT Supacat 600 series 6 x 4 high-mobility vehicle that could be loaded with a single MLRS six pack or one Atacms. Eads/Dornier developed the European Fire Control System, which was first fielded in 2006, to modernise the MLRS systems of the other European partners to enable them to launch the GMLRS. The industrial team includes Diehl BGT Defence, MBDA and Avio. Lockheed Martin received a $ 14.6 million contract in early March 2009 to upgrade six of Bahrains M270 launchers to the M270C1 configuration, and anticipates that other export customers will request the same. The Himars has been developed since the early 1990s to provide the US Army and US Marine Corps with MLRS firepower on a vehicle light enough to be carried by the C-130 Hercules tactical transport aircraft. The Himars consists of a turntable launcher, which carries a single six pack of 227-mm rockets or one Atacms, mounted on a BAE Systems Tactical Vehicle Systems five-tonne Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) 6 x 6 chassis. Designed from the beginning to launch the GMLRS the Himars incorporates both the UFCS and the ILMS. Three of four prototypes built under a 1996 contract were delivered to the armys XVIIIth Airborne Corps and during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003 launched more than 12,000 227-mm rockets and 450 Atacms. The army plans to order 375 Himars, while the US Marine Corps is seeking 40, although these figures are likely to change as the new Obama Administration reviews both force structure and procurement projects. On 31 December 2008 Lockheed Martin received its fourth full-rate production order, worth $ 180 million, for 57 army launchers and seven US Marine Corps launchers for delivery by March 2010. The Himars is the focus for MLRS export efforts. In September 2006 the Bush Administration notified the US Congress of the proposed $ 752 million sale of 20 launchers to the United Arab
Emirates including missiles and a training and support package. The following September Congress was notified of the proposed $ 330 million sale to Singapore of 18 launchers, 32 XM31 Unitary High Explosive GMLRS Pods, 30 M28A1 Practice Rocket Pods and support equipment. Deliveries to both countries are underway.
Rockets
When it came into service in the early 1980s the unguided M26 MLRS rocket was the longest-range artillery munition used by Nato, able to strike targets out to 31,600 metres. During the 1991 US-led offensive to recapture Kuwait more than 230 US Army and twelve British Army MLRS launchers showered unguided rockets upon Iraqi troops with devastating effect. Concern that several Iraqi 155-mm artillery systems outranged US cannon artillery guns prompted the US Army to fund development of the M26 Extended
Range MLRS (ER-MLRS) 227-mm rocket which can carry a reduced load of 518 bomblets to a range of 45 km. To attack high-value targets in depth Lockheed Martin developed the Atacms for the army. The original M39 Block 1 missile, 32 of which were launched during the 1991 campaign, carried a 591-kg warhead, containing 950 M74 anti-personnel/antimateriel bomblets, to a maximum range of 165 km. In 1990 the M39A1 Block 1A missile was fielded, which has a minimum range of 70 km and a maximum range of 300 km although to achieve this the number of bomblets was reduced to 300. The Atacms has also been bought by Greece, South Korea and Turkey. The transformation of the MLRS to a precision fire system began when the US Army and its European partners awarded a 48-month System Development and Demonstration (SDD) contact for the GMLRS in November 1998 to Lockheed Martin, partnered with Diehl, MBDA and Avio. Using the ER-MLRS rocket as a basis the consortium integrated an inertial measurement unit and a global positioning system into the rocket, along with canards in the nose, enabling the GMLRS rocket to deliver a warhead to within a five-metre circular error probable (CEP) at 70 km. Lockheed Martin has demonstrated the ability of the GMLRS to hit targets at 85 km and achieve a CEP of only three metres. Low-rate initial production of the M30 GMLRS, equipped with a cargo warhead carrying 404 M85 Dpicms, began in mid-2003, however the US Army announced in January 2006 production of GMLRS rockets would shift to the M31 Unitary model. The M31 features an 89-kg high-explosive fragmentation warhead, developed by General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems under subcontract to Lockheed Martin, which provides a point strike capability. A new tri-mode fuze, which entered series production in 2009, can be programmed for point impact, delay detonation or airburst mode.
A US Army Himars launched two Amraam air-defence missiles in March 2009 in a feasibility demonstration of the common launcher concept. (Lockheed Martin)
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Artillery
BAE Systems produces the Increased Crew Protection cab for the Himars. (Lockheed Martin)
The weapon debuted in combat on 9 September 2005 when eight GMLRS Unitary Urgent Materiel Release rockets fitted with an interim point detonation/ delay fuze destroyed two insurgent strongholds more than 50 km away. About 95% of the more than 1200 GMLRS Unitary rockets fired by US (more than 700) and UK (about 500) forces in Afghanistan and Iraq until April 2009 were against targets in urban areas and one-quarter of all missions were in support of TIC. Both statistics reinforce the importance of precision. The US Army awarded Lockheed Martin a $ 372 million delivery order on 29 December 2008 for 3780 unitary and 4782 GMLRS Reduced Range Practise Rockets, which are expected to be delivered by the end of 2009. In mid-2005 the British Army became the first export customer for the GMLRS with a $ 55 million order. As deliveries began in 2006 the initial rockets were fitted with the Unitary UMR warhead. The German Army, for its part, plans to procure 402 GMLRS Unitary rockets by 2012 and 600 fitted with the DM 702A1 Smart 155 mm sensor-fuzed ammunition being developed by Diehl for use with both the MLRS and cannon artillery. The GMLRS Smart warhead ejects four submunitions over the target, which are able to engage both mobile and stationary semi-hard and hard targets.
Future Developments
As the US Army intends to retain the MLRS system until 2050 it is planning a number of enhancement projects including a dial a yield warhead which could be optimised for the planned target. To replace the M30 Dpicm warhead it intends to field a GMLRS Alternative Warhead, which complies with the policy on cluster munitions. Two contractors are scheduled to receive contracts in the third quarter of FY09 for the 16-month integration and demonstration phase. Lockheed Martin will work with the chosen warhead designer for the subsequent 36-month engineering design, development and manufacturing phase. An initial operating capability is planned for the
GMLRS instead of the Atacms, providing a number of operational, cost and logistical advantages. Incorporating an adverse weather tri-mode seeker (Sal/MMW/I2R) the GMLRS Two (previously known as the P44) will provide the ability to attack moving targets, faster flight times (2.9 minutes to 40 km and five minutes to 60 km) and the ability to load ten missiles in a standard MLRS/Himars pod and allazimuth target approach. Potential warheads could include a 7.7-kg shaped charge or the 12.7-kg Lockheed Martin Hellfire II Metal Augmented Charge thermobaric warhead. Tests of the GMLRS Two are also planned to explore the weapons use against airborne targets. In March the US Army conducted a common launcher feasibility demonstration at White Sands Missile Range when two modified Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (Amraam) were launched from a Himars.
Collaboration with South Korea?

South Koreas Defense Acquisition Program Administration announced on 22 April that it had decided to develop an indigenous 230-mm twelve-barrel MRL by 2013 to replace the 36-round 130-mm Daewoo Kooryong MRL that entered
pin Out 1 of the US Armys Future Combat System project includes the XM501 Non Line-of-Sight - Launch System (Nlos-LS) being developed by Netfires, a partnership between Lockheed Martin and Raytheon. Spin Out 1 technology is intended to reach operational brigades from 2011 and under present plans will be fielded at a rate of six brigades per year. The Nlos-LS consists of a platform-independent Container Launch Unit (CLU) with a computer, communication system and 15 Precision Attack Missiles (Pam). The CLUs self-contained tactical fire control electronics and software enables remote and unmanned operation. The Pam is a 1.5metre-long, 53.5-kg, modular missile that is effective against moving and stationary targets to a maximum range of 40 km using GPS/INS guidance. Once in the target area, the Pam uses a dual-mode uncooled imaging infrared/semi-active laser seeker to acquire and guide the missile to the target. Alternatively, the Pam can be programmed to attack a requested target position; targeting data can be updated during flight. The Pam has a two-stage boost sustain rocket motor and a fragmentationwrapped, shaped-charge warhead designed to defeat armoured vehicles, soft targets and field fortifications. Netfires completed the first and second guided test flights of the Pam on 22 and 24 November 2008 at the US Armys White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. service in 1981. The Republic of Korea Army, concerned about the threat of massed North Korean forces, places an emphasis on both saturation and precision fire. Hanwha, which produces the 130-mm rockets for the Kooryong, will be responsible for system integration and the production of guided and unguided rockets while Doosan will build the launcher. South Korea has 156 Kooryongs in service alongside 29 M270 and M270A1 MLRS launchers. Lockheed Martin has discussed with the South Korean government and industry the potential for co-operation in a the project.
US forces have launched more than 540 Atacms Unitary rockets in Iraq and Afghanistan. (Lockheed Martin)
third quarter of FY15. The European Cooperative Development Partners have expressed a desire to join the project, according to Amcom. For the GMLRS+ project Lockheed Martin is using the semi-active laser (Sal) guidance kit that it developed for the 70-mm Direct Attack Guided Rocket. Among the promised advantages are: extended range, possibly 125 to 130 km, allazimuth target approach, simultaneous arrival of multiple rockets fired by the same launchers and over the shoulder of the designator approach. Extending the range would allow users to employ the
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Weighing 2.8 kg, the Sagem cooled Jim-LR can detect a tank at nine kilometres
The ever-present need to engage targets on the so-called 24-hour battlefield is the major driver behind the growth of the forward observer system market. Not only must todays forward observer be able to detect targets in all weathers and during the day or night, but they must report the position of these targets to artillery units, other troops or aircraft.
Thomas Withington
Germany
Jenoptik in Germany produces a handheld thermal imager (HHTI) for surveillance and reconnaissance applications. The instrument is based on an uncooled thermal sensor that runs without an acoustic signature and is equipped with a laser rangefinder. The HHTI can detect a person at five kilometres and a vehicle at eight. Jena-Optronik, a subsidiary of Jenoptik, produces the Nyxus for intelligence and reconnaissance missions. The device combines a high-performance binocular with a cooled thermal imager. The Nyxus can be used hand-held or mounted on a
any of the systems surveyed below have modems and communication links integral to their design, which allows the observer to transmit data across battlefield information systems, significantly reducing the risk that the co-ordinates are misheard in the cacophony of battle. A myriad of systems offering comprehensive capabilities are available on the international market, two of which, the Jim-LR (see title picture above) and JimMR are produced by Sagem Dfense Scurit of France. The Jim-LR weighs around 2.8 kg and, despite being a cooled system, is inaudible from 50 metres. It includes three fields of view wideband, narrowband and x2, x4 and x8 zoom. The Jim-LR can be used to detect a tank at nine kilometres but its user can recognise a tank at 3.5 km. A laser rangefinder and pointer are also included, the former of which has a five-kilometre range, along with a Global Positioning System and digital magnetic compass. The Jim-MR is designed for close combat and includes two fields of view (wideband and x2 electronic zoom) with the ability to detect a tank at 3.5 km and recognise it at one.A 2.5 km laser rangefinder is included, along with a digital magnetic compass. The Jim-MR was recently adopted for the Flin soldier programme.
tripod/monopod with a goniometer and north-finding gyro. The system has twelve hours of battery life. Typical ranges of the thermal sensor are nine and four kilometres for the respective detection and recognition of a vehicle. The integrated eye-safe laser rangefinder has a reach in excess of ten kilometres. Jena-Optronik provides the WBBG hand-held thermal imager for the German Armys IdZ-ES warrior programme. The unit can perform image fusion of the infrared and CCD channels. Position information and video sequences can be relayed through wireless transmission in real time. At night detection is to five kilometres and recognition at 3.8. The laser measurement range for its part, stands at four kilometres.
Norway
Simrad Optronics in Norway produces the modular FOI2000 which includes the companys LP10TL observation system. It includes a Flir Systems FTI thermal
Sagems Matis is a third-generation series of thermal imagers. The company produces the handheld Matis HH seen here, but also the Matis MP, Matis STD and Matis LR for a variety of applications ranging from missile launchers to vehicles. (Sagem)
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The Moskito binocular from Vectronix includes an autogated image intensification tube that adjusts the rangefinder to ambient light conditions which can change rapidly, particularly in urban terrain. (Armada/JK)
the range correction between a missed round and a target. Vectronix Moskito eyesafe laser rangefinder binoculars can measure range azimuth and vertical angle and can be used for fire control by forward observers. The binocular includes a built-in GPS reviver and can be connected to external devices such as a Rockwell Collins Dagr (Defense Advanced GPS Receiver) or Personal Advanced GPS Receiver. The Moskito provides x5 magnification and x3 magnification for night viewing, the products range-finding capability is up to four kilometres. The company also manufactures the Big35 Night Binocular, which offers x3 magnification.
imager which has a dual field-of-view, a Vectronix Goniolight digital goniometer plus a Diehl Mk 11-7 north-finding gyro. One of the strengths of the system, according to Simrad, is its modular construction which allows the operator to change components rapidly and configure the FOI2000 exactly to the mission requirement, by adding a laser designator for example. The LP10TLs left ocular lens displays the thermal image and the man-machine interface, although the thermal image is only seen when this system is attached. The interface has an intuitive menu using the Windows CE operating system. It is of modular, ergonomic and rugged construction, and can be used in either a hand-held or tripod-mounted configuration. The LP10TL has dual x7 or x12 zoom options, and can be externally connected to communication systems or an external power supply. A number of optional extras can be added including a Global Positioning System (GPS), digital camera, laser-pointer or a night vision capability.
light G-TI offers both the TI camera and the gyroscope. The company notes that customer-specified laser rangefinders and TIs can also be integrated. Vectronix produces a host of handheld rangefinder binoculars 17 Nato countries have purchased examples from the companys Vector family. All Vector binoculars include an eyesafe laser rangefinder, x7 magnification, a
France
Thales designed the Sophie forward observer range to offer the soldier a logistically unobtrusive cooled system that was designed around a binocular configuration. Thales claims that this product line was the first hand-held, long-wave TI system to operate without an external cooling system.
Also known in the United States as the AN/Pas-21, Flirs Seespot-III can be used either as a selfcontained forward observer system, or with a laser target designator. In 2005 the Seespot-III was designated as essential equipment for US Army Tactical Air Control Parties. (Flir Systems)
Switzerland
Vectronix builds a number of systems including the Goniolight designed for dismounted forward observers and tactical air controllers. The Goniolight can be connected with an external GPS, tactical radio, gyroscope or an external power supply. Several versions are available including one outfitted with a pair of Vector rangefinder binoculars. The same system can also be fitted with an additional gyroscope (Goniolight G-V). The Goniolight TI comes outfitted with a Sagem Matis HH TI camera, while the Gonio-
digital magnetic compass and antireflective caps which work to minimise the risk of the user being detected. Moreover, both the the Vector-IV Nite and Vector-21 have night vision capabilities. Other design features include wireless Bluetooth data transfer along with an RS-232 port for hard-wired transfer from the binoculars to other external devices. A fall-of-shot calculator displays
The Thales SophieMF has a ten kilometre range and can hand-off its footage to other users via an RS-422 datalink. (Thales)
The initial Sophie model procured for the French armed forces was an 8-12 long-range infrared system. This was the waveband of choice for all Nato forces as it provides good dust and smoke penetration capabilities. The initial Sophie systems had a four-degree field-of-view, although this was decreased to a three to give better long-range performance. The Sophie-MF long-range multi-function binocular and thermal imager system incorporates an eye-safe laser rangefinder, along with a magnetic compass, internal GPS, colour daylight camera and an eye-safe laser pointer. It covers the 8-12 spectrum and includes three fields of view (wide, narrow and x2 electronic zoom). The device is cooled using a rotating Stirling micro-cooler and has a range of up to ten kilometres. It also includes an RS-422 datalink and can operate in temperatures of between -40C to +55C. The Sophie-ZS operates in the 3-5 band and uses a zoom lens as opposed to a two field-of-view telescope. The zoom
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BE Meyers of the United States produces the Izud 1000P night vision system, which is a lightweight yet far-reaching forward observer system that has the capability to spot targets at ranges of 43 km. (BE Meyers)
lens is able to magnify a target at long range as well as give a 15 surveillance view. The multi-function version of the Sophie-ZS is called the Sophie-XF. Also operating across 8-12 wavelengths is Thales Elvir Modular Uncooled Infrared Camera, which can be used either as a stand-alone handheld thermal imager or as part of a binocular system. It can detect a man at 1.5 km or a tank at up to 3.2 km. Three lens options are available, including 25 mm, 80 mm or 100 mm which give x1, x3.3 and x4.2 magnification respectively.
Coral-LS thermal imaging camera, which is also used by the US Marine Corps, has a low acoustic signature and a x1 to x4 continuous zoom. Other El-Op products include the Intim hand-held, lightweight thermal imager, which has over five hours of battery life and
ruggedised design and, because it is an uncooled system, produces no acoustic signature. The Mars hand-held thermal imager, for its part, has a con-tinuous zoom, integrated laser range-finder, digital magnetic compass and GPS. The Artim-LR compact thermal imaging camera and sight has dual field of view and can be operated via remote control. Azimuth Technologies has a range of systems including the Atlas-LT, which can be carried in a single backpack, made ready for use within two minutes, can carry up to twelve kg of sensors and has a laser rangefinder. The goniometer has impressive precision of up to 1 mil and the Atlas-LT can be connected to a communications system. The Atlas-Pro has an accuracy of up to 0.3 mil in both axes and north-finding precision of one mil. The Atlas-Pro can transfer target data in a voice, free text or video format via a built-in communication system which includes wireless Lan (Local Area Network) and Ethernet. Designed specifically for the infantry is the companys Atris-MP, which is built
El-Ops Coral hand-held forward observer system operates in the 3-5 waveband. The company notes that the product has a number of applications including border and coastal security, and law enforcement tasks, as well as military reconnaissance missions. (Elbit Systems)
Israel
El-Op of Israel produces the Coral handheld 3-5 thermal imaging binocular camera which is used by the United States Marine Corps (where it is designated AN/Pas-22). Its accessories include an add-on x2 zoom telescope, an integral compass, GPS receiver, and a clip-on laser pointer and rangefinder. The CoralCR advanced hand-held lightweight thermal imaging camera has integral GPS, an eyesafe laser rangefinder, GPS and magnetic compass. The Coral-CR boasts a very low acoustic signature. The
a compact design. The Lapis-L is an uncooled thermal imaging sight for day and night observation, has a compact and
around a lightweight tripod with optional wireless control and the ability to record and store data. The System Level Improvement Kit, better known by its Slik acronym, is designed for targeting anti-tank missile launchers on the battlefield and is adaptable to any missile launcher system, according to the company. Incorporated into the Slik is a laser rangefinder, compass and hand-held computer. The computer also includes a GPS system and can send data to higher command levels when connected to a VHF/UHF radio.
United Systems
Flir Systems has worked with Simrad Optronics (as noted above) on that companys LP10TL and produces a host of forward observer systems. These include the Ranger-HRC high-resolution, mid-wave TI system, which has a number of continuous-zoom telescope options. The Ranger-HRC includes a cooled TI, and x12.5 zoom telescope with autofocus which has a 640 x 480 focal plane array operating across the 3-5 range. The
With a range in excess of 20 km, the TLS 40 from Carl Zeiss Optronics combines a long-range rangefinder with observation binoculars, a twelve-channel GPS and digital compass, a digital camera and digital voice recorder into a compact kit weighing less than two kilos. (Zeiss Optronics)
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The Coral-LS is seen here with a laser designation and rangefinding system. This allows the product to be used as a targeting system for close air support operations. Its lightweight and compact size makes it highly portable. (Elbit Systems)
Ranger-HRC also has multiple fields of view and includes a colour TV camera with standard, long-range and ultra-longrange fields-of-view. An optional eye-safe laser rangefinder with a 20-km reach is also available with a digital magnetic compass, GPS and geo-pointing and positioning systems. The Ranger-HRC is joined by the Ranger-II/III system which includes a two field-of-view TI sensor operating in the 3-5 waveband. The Flir Thermovision Sentry-II includes a 320 x 240 long-wave VOx (Vanadium Oxide) microbolometer with two fields of view and a x12 continuous zoom daylight TV camera. A number of binoculars are produced by Flir Systems including the Milcam Recon III Lite (type designation AN/Pas26) medium-range lightweight system. Using a 640 x 480 VOx microbolometer, these binoculars sense in the 8-12 waveband and also include a visible colour channel and a laser pointer. They can be tripod-mounted or hand-held and weigh under 2.3 kg. With three fields of view; a 640 x 480 and a 320 x 240 VOx microbolometer; the Milcam Recon III LocatIR includes an eyesafe laser rangefinder, an integral digital magnetic compass accurate to 0.3 mil, plus an integral GPS system and an optional laser pointer. The Milcam Recon III ObservIR (type designation AN/Pas-24) has a comparable imaging specification to the Mil-
cam Recon III LocalIR, and is designed for higher mobility surveillance applications where laser rangefinding is not required. This is also offered with an optional laser pointer. Other Flir systems
and weighs 2.4 kg. The Seespot III+ is a dual role imager used for reconnaissance and observation missions as well as laser spot imaging. The Milcam Recon III ObservIR can sense in the 3-5 and 8-12 ranges and weighs less than three kilograms. This is offered with an optional laser pointer. The Milcam Recon III Ultralite has a x2 and x4 digital zoom, and covers the 8-12 spectral band with a 640 x 480 VOx microbolometer. The system has up to four hours of battery life and weighs under 1.7 kg. The Seespot-III hand-held thermal and laser spot imager senses across the 4.5-4.8 and 1.06 frequency bands and weighs 2.4 kg. BE Meyers of Richmond, Washington State, manufacturers the Owl pocket scope which includes an integral Image Guard system that shuts down the scope if subjected to excessively bright light to prevent damage. The Prowler Night Vision Pocket Scope is also a Generation
Getting iron onto target is a vital mission in todays war zones. Troops from the 341st Infantry Division of the Romanian Army perform reconnaissance on a target using a forward observer system in Iraq. (US Department of Defense)
include the Seespot-III+ (type designation AN/Pas-21A) hand-held thermal and laser spot imager that senses across the 4.5-4.8 and 1.06 frequency bands
Containing an integral GPS, Simrad Optronics Groups Vingtaqs system can either be used as a stand-alone system or integrated onto a vehicle. The unit incorporates a laser rangefinder and target illumination system for the tactical air control mission. (Simrad Optronics)
III night vision system and includes the same Image Guard technology and has a ruggedised aluminium body. The company is to unveil a new line of products designed for forward observation which includes the Izud family of infrared illuminating and pointing laser. The Izud 200PO and the Izud 1000P have the capability to illuminate targets out of 39 km and 43 km respectively. Offering illumination out to 6.5 km at night and 300 metres during the day, the companys GBO-III green laser is designed for daylight illumination or in conditions with ambient light levels during dusk or dawn that are too high for night vision systems to work. The sophistication of forward observer equipment is expected to improve along with the equipments portability and ergonomics. The combat theatres of Afghanistan and Iraq will have a strong influence regarding the features that will be incorporated on tomorrows systems such as longer-range detection, improved image clarity and better data sharing a capabilities.
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Drone update
The Prox Dynamics Black Hornet nanocopter in flight
Surfing the Micro-Wave

By the time these lines are written, printed and read the Paris Air Show, with its endless flood of announcements on man-less vehicles, will have lived and gone and will be reported in the next issue of Armada. However, as a prelude to the French great aeronautical biennial service, an event of comparatively minor importance took place in Paris, namely the UVS International symposium.
inside of the cover contains the display, the first page holds the various touch-button controls (including autonomous point-to-point flight and automatic search patterns), but open this and the hollow book houses three helicopters. The latter have a rotor diameter of ten centimetres, weigh 15 grams and can fly for up to 30 minutes before requiring fresh batteries. Whether Aerovironments Switchblade qualifies as a drone or purely a weapon is pretty much food for conjecture, but a film presented during the UVS International conference definitely makes it a seriously lethal flying object. The launch tube is held up at an angle of about 45 and in the rough direction of the target, the
Eric H. Biass
se of the word minor was made in the introductory paragraph. Indeed, while this might sound inappropriate in terms of impact, it still is valid in terms of scale. But just for how long? Real breakthroughs were announced in the field of drones before the great Le Bourget Salon, like long-awaited live demonstrations of drones in the Napoleonic skies, but how long will it be before such events become the norm and fighter aircraft cutting up scars into the flesh of the skies to fill them up with seemingly soothing wing-tip generated smoke fall into oblivion? Probably as long as it took for television to fully switch from black and white to colour. Just think: how many people watched the ever so important Apollo 11 mission on colour television? That was only 40 years ago! Concorde had just started to fly with a control panel that was more reminiscent of a WW II Lancaster than of what one would expect of a sound speed-busting ship. Yours sincerely at the time, although already comfortably acquainted with truly piloted aircraft, had an inclination for the radio-controlled variety, but never considered his craft
as being unmanned although his crafts rudimentary autopilot electronics brought in an embryo of self-piloting notion.
UVS International
The miniaturisation of electronics was already considered a major achievement at the time, but this was still a far cry from what is achieved today both in electronics and electric motors. This was demonstrated in a particularly spectacular manner during the UVS International conference by Prox Dynamics. Flying in the dining hall to the bemusement of the visitors, this Norwegian firms diminutive helicopter showed an absolutely astonishing degree of stability, both in transitional and hovering flight phases. Known as the PD-100 Black Hornet, this nanocopter is still under development, but should become available in the second half of 2010. The above craft photographed by the author (sans body) is what the manufacturer calls a third-generation model, but a fourth-generation type with proper bodywork is expected to fly towards the end of the year. In flight, the helicopter is amazingly quiet and can really take one by surprise. In order to reduce mechanical difficulties and
weight the tail rotor is powered by its own electric motor. Developed with the military market in its crosshairs (Prox Dynamics brochure makes no uncertain allusions to special forces), the nanocopter is equipped with autopilot (with inertial navigation system), a GPS receiver and a nose-mounted camera. The ultimate aim for Prox Dynamics is to deliver a kit whereby the control system would be the size of a small book: open it horizontally like a laptop computer, the
The 50 re coins provide a useful scale to evaluate the size of the Black Hornets electric motor. Out of focus in the background is the even smaller tail rotor motor. (Armada/EHB)
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Drone update
one significant step closer to operational evaluation status, since they were part of the Navy's risk-reduction plan for the programme, in anticipation of eventual test and deployment onboard a Littoral Combat Ship. In Israel, Bental Technologies announced that it had entered into a co-operation agreement with 3W to integrate its G032 startergenerator into the German firms 157-cc drone engine. The Bental space and weight saving device initially acts as a starter motor and then turns itself into a power generator once the thermal engine is running.
ities by acquiring worldwide marketing, development and manufacturing licence for RCV Engines four-stroke flat twin drone engine. Both firms are currently developing an electronic engine management system and hope to be able to offer the engine to the market in early 2010.
Nano Again
Better known for its popular series of mini drones, Aerovironment appears to have succumbed to the growing charms of the nanodrone nymph as testified by its recent developmental work on the Nav (Nano Air Vehicle) programme sponsored by the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (Darpa). The company has recently been awarded an extension to Phase II of the project, which includes designing and building a flying prototype. Plans call for the Nav to climb and descend vertically, fly sideways in both directions, obviously forward and backwards all under remote control. Aerovironment is employing biological mimicry in the design of the nano bird, where wing flapping is the mode of lift and propulsion and painting the vehicle to match birds found in the local environment. Goals of the Nav programme are to develop a ten-gram aircraft that can fly at ten metres/ sec, withstand 2.4 metres/sec wind gusts, operate in buildings and have a one-kilometre command and control range. The recent $ 2.1 million Phase II extension will continue through summer a 2010.
Not a hummingbird, but a Nav the flapping wing nanodrone currently being developed by Aerovironment. (Aerovironment)
Engines
Not only does the RCV flat twin operate on JP-8 or petrol, but it also features an unusual solution for its valves, since they are of the rotary type instead of the more usual reciprocating gear. (RCV)
co-ordinates of which are entered into the devices GPS via its laptop-like control station. Designed to be as small as, say, a 60-mm mortar round, this weapon pops out of its launch tube, deploys its wings as one would unfold the blades of a pocket knife (hence its name) and heads for its target upon which it eventually takes its deadly dive. Aerovironments International Business Development Director Peter Austermann, however, remained absolutely tight-lipped on the status of this programme and the warhead used, but the footage mentioned above showed that the weapon was in a pretty mature stage of development and probably already under evaluation and testing with the American armed forces. Offering a round-up on Aerovironments activities, Austermann announced that the company is now testing an NBC version of the Wasp, whereby the aircraft is flown out to a suspect area from which it brings back air samples. Turning to the Puma the same speaker showed that the drone was truly an allenvironment vehicle, as it can land in water without suffering any damage whatsoever. It can land in a mud puddle and simply be washed clean with a garden hose. More interestingly,
Austerman announced that new batteries now double the Pumas endurance to four hours.
In an interesting development Ultra Electronics, inter alia manufacturer of compact gas generators for military aircraft through its Precision Air Systems division, has widened its field of activ-
Elsewhere
In the United States, the US Navy completed the second test series of its Northrop Grumman Fire Scout MQ8B onboard the USS McInerney at the beginning of the summer. The tests, which included fully autonomous flight, mark the first operation of the verti-lift craft onboard a US Navy frigate (the previous at-sea operations had been conducted from the USS Nashville an amphibious transport dock). According to Northrop Grumman this second series of tests brings the Fire Scout
The best of both worlds: Bentals G054 is at the same time a starter motor for drone thermal engines and a power generator. The G054 was selected to fire-up and charge the batteries of the Elbit Hermes 90. (Bental)
34
Digest
On the Armada Bookshelf Sea Devils

first-hand report on WW II actions that probably were at the inception of modern special operations, this book was written by Prince Valerio Borghese who eventually took the helm of the famous (or infamous) Decima Mas, a secret section set up by the Italian Navy in 1939. The book was written in 1950 and then translated by the Prince himself in 1953. Although he was assisted in this task by a Briton, the text still oozes of excessive Latin pride, which only adds to the accounts authenticity and drama. Indeed, underwater technology then was in its infancy. The very nature of these covert offensive operations implied that they had to be performed at night and, to make things even worse, in winter to take advantage of the seasons longer nights. Initially, the Decima employed fast motorboats modified to carry bow-mounted torpedoes, their operators driving them at full speed towards the ship to be attacked, only slipping backwards into the water with a special surfing board-like float at the very last moment. The Decima then moved on and developed modified torpedoes enabling two frogmen (as they
are referred to in the book) to piggyback and ride them into harbours and under the keels of target ships, upon which the explosive nose sections of the maiali (pigs) were detached and adequately affixed overhead. When all went well - which seldom was the case - the frogmen were to swim out to an agreed pick-up point. In spite of heavy losses Borgheses men managed to wreck havoc around the Mediterranean, particularly in Gibraltar and Alexandria. Their operation was so covert that one of the Decima bases was located in the hull of a semi-sunk trawler in the harbour of Algesiras right under the windows of the British consulate. Reprinted by the Naval Institute Press, and definitely worth reading.
GMR Leaves Drawing Board

The Boeing-led JTRS Ground Mobile Radio team, which includes BAE Systems, Rockwell Collins, Northrop Grumman and Harris, has formally announced that it had completed the design phase of the GMR radio and that engineering development models are entering testing to validate their actual communication capabilities. The tests will be conducted through early 2010 at the Electronic Systems Center at Fort Huachuca, Arizona and at the contractor teams labs across the USA. The software-defined GMR is designed to bridge the gap between legacy communication equipment and the new generation of battlefield radios, and provide soldiers with a platform to share voice, text message and near real-time video footage through a secure, multi-channel, mobile ground network. More information on the GMR programme and JTRS can be found in the Complete Guide to Tactical Radios that was published in tandem with this issue.
On the Armada Bookshelf The Military Balance 2009 The International Institute for Strategic Studies
he IISS International Institute for Strategic Studies publishes this annual assessment of global military capabilities and defence economics. The Military Balance 2009 is an in-depth study of arms procurements, defence equipment and organisations and budget information. Powerful facts on defence economics, coupled with a 2009 Chart of Conflict that includes a world map surrounded by detailed statistics on global conflicts (highlighting select areas where water issues may eventually lead to dispute or conflict), multi-national peace support operations, drugrelated conflicts in Mexico and Colombia and reference links to the IISS online Armed Conflict Database. This authoritative reference edition provides specific strategic information required by international think tanks and decision-makers who demand thorough insight into todays global defence structure. The inside back cover is of special note as it provides an interesting 2008 timeline map of selected piracy incidents off the coast of Somalia.
Cables for the PRCs
Of Methanol and Birds

The proliferation of drones has bred a plethora of designs and ideas to make them smaller, lighter, quieter and give them longer staying power. Ultracell, a leading producer of fuel cells for mobile applications, has announced its partnership with the Center for Unmanned Air Vehicles Exploitation (Cue) and the US Air Force Research Laboratory in Dayton, Ohio to further develop UAV powerplant technology. Ultracell will build ten fuel cell systems based on its XX25 reformed methanol fuel cell (RMFC) technology, which has received US military Technol-
martronix has designed multifunctional Radio Data Adapter (RDA) cables to connect ones rugged laptop directly to the Harris PRC-117F or the Thales PRC-148 radios. The RDA combines the functions of existing cables and adds data modem capabilities. The driver software maps the standard laptop COM ports to the radio ports, whereby all computer data passes through a single USB port. Smartronix can customise a solution for other tactical radios.
ogy Readiness Level 7, to power future drone aerial and ground systems. Ultracells XX25 system has proven to
provide extended runtime in a lightweight package. The photo above shows the XX25 at right and the XX55.
62
High-speed USB at Sealevel

Connecting ones tactical radio to a laptop or hand-held PDA can be a matter of plug-andtransfer with Sealevel Systems ACC-188 high-speed synchronous serial adapter. The USB synchronous radio adapter cable is compatible with Sincgars, EPLRS, MBMMR, Mbitr and JTRS radios and available with a variety of radio connectors (for more radio information see the Complete Guide to Tactical Radios supplement accompanying this issue).
Connecting your PDA or laptop facilitates the sending of text messages, e-mails, files, images, GPS data, calendar/ agenda information and other system files and data. A powerful, hot swappable, programmable FPGA chip that is EMI shielded transmits over HF, UHF and VHF and up to 76 kbps via satcom. The ACC188, which is powered by the USB bus, includes US government developed (and owned) PDA-184 software that provides a graphical user interface for information transfer over the Data Control waveform.
n 26 June DCNS Cherbourg shipyard held its first cut ceremony for the new Barracuda nuclear-powered attack submarine. This second in the Barracuda programme line, which will replace the current Rubis/Amthyste class between 2017 and 2028, will carry a mixture of next-generation F21 heavyweight torpedoes, SM39 anti-ship missiles and MDCN naval cruise missiles. The boats missions will include deployment of commandos and special forces units, intelligence gathering, anti-sub and antisurface warfare and mine-laying and land strikes.
Steyr Engines in US Vehicles

AM General and Steyr Motors of Austria have signed a license agreement for the production and distribution of Steyrs M16 monoblock diesel engines (similar to the type seen in this Armada
photo) in America. This recent move opens the door for the successful Austrian company to promote its engines and technology to the American military armoured vehicle market. Steyr Motors was the focus of an article in Armada Internationals issue 2/2009, page 50.
Digest
Oria New Mission Display

A new flight and mission display system designed for military transport and special mission aircraft has been revealed by Elbit Systems. The Oria features primary flight and navigation displays, a flight management system, a synthetic vision system and an integrated head-up display.
The graphically oriented system was designed to be modular and expandable through software upgrades. The Oria system is kitted with Ord-900 displays, which is Elbits slimline, lightweight, low-power primary flight and mission display line. The Oria can be integrated with the aircrafts core communication, navigation, surveillance, EW or EO equipment.
Next Issue (October/November 2009): 18 September, Advertising: 21 August

Complete Guide Mobility Air, Sea, Land Due to the emergence of buried and roadside bombs, suicide attacks and shoulderfired anti-armour weapons for example, light and medium fighting and troop-transport vehicles have put on a tremendous amount of weight due to the heavier protection they require. This has in turn started to pose a problem with airlift, and newer types of aircraft are required. GPS Jamming & Spoofing GPS receivers are available to all and enable ones enemy to navigate more easily and accurately lay his guns. Local jamming therefore becomes a useful weapon, but spoofing is even smarter as it provides wrong readings without the enemy noticing. Soldier Situational Awareness Devices The equipment designed to keep dismounted soldiers in the information loop. Personal Data Assistants, Vehicle C2I systems and Blue Force Tracking systems. These systems provide GPS, digital maps, some have video, all provide two-way voice, data or video comms. Gunsight Optics Seeing a target before it sees you is paramount in short-to-medium-range combat, and a weapons sighting system is the first line of defence. A plethora of sighting and aiming devices are available for any situation, with holograms, red dots, aiming reticules and other solutions vying for attention. Weight and ruggedness is important. Training Aircraft With fighter aircraft becoming increasingly complex and therefore expensive to operate, reliance on training aircraft to bring pilots to operational level is also increasing. The challenge is to keep those training aircraft as cost-effective as possible and yet make them duplicate the capabilities of the actual fighter aircraft. Wall-breaching Weapons Wall breaching almost rhymes with urban warfare and thus brings about the notion of collateral damage. Systems are devised to enable building walls (as opposed to bunker walls) to be pierced without: 1- blowing up the entire building; 2- endangering ones own troops and civilians in the vicinity. Coastal Attack Missiles In addition to typical ground cruise missiles, the arsenal of anti-ship missile is now doubling its capabilities to attack coastal infrastructures, thanks to sensors that are capable of better discriminating targets from a cluttered background. Digital Mapping Still paper maps are not forgotten just gone, for now. Myriad defence companies provide mapping services, but it is the Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) that fuse the map info together into intelligence that is served to the client. Capturing the images, fusing the info and dissemination are all important aspects. Paris Air Show Report One of the industrys leading exhibitions is covered by Armada editors. The Paris Air Show at Le Bourget, France. Drone Update The regular unmanned aircraft review, that brings readers up-to-date with the latest developments of this fast-moving discipline.
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INTERNATIONAL: The trusted source for defence technology information since 1976

Issue 4/2009 August/September

Barrels Still Needed at Sea

Surfing the Micro-Wave

Forward Observer Gear Gets Target Right

Water Lane Insertion

J. Keggler and T. Withington

Complete Guide Supplement

Paul V. Alpo Tactical Radios Urban Warfare

armada INTERNATIONAL 4/2009

Patria and ThalesRaytheonSystems

Lockheed Martin has delivered the first

counter-fire target acquisition (EQ-36) radar system to the US Army under a

Big Deals in Short

Deliver Paveway II Enhanced Laser Guided Training Rounds

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Boeing Defence UK announced that a modified UK Chinook Mk 3 helicopter

Ceradyne has acquired all business and

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Valry Rousset and Antoine Philippe

Tomorrows Sigint Missions?

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Pallets for Cargo

Authors Brief Bio

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Appropriate task for a Mule: bear loads

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armada INTERNATIONAL 4/2009

armada INTERNATIONAL 4/2009

Guided Rockets Lighter Weapons

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modules of the GIWS (Rheinmetall/Diehl) Smart 155 artillery round.

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Hiring the Heavies

Whats the Haipe?

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Naval: small craft

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Naval: small craft

From Race to Intercept

armada INTERNATIONAL 4/2009

Naval: small craft

From Tyre to Boat

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Naval: small craft

armada INTERNATIONAL 4/2009

Six-rocket pod loaded onto an M142 Himars at Camp Barber, Afghanistan

Old and New Launchers

Collaboration with South Korea?

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The Prox Dynamics Black Hornet nanocopter in flight

Surfing the Micro-Wave

armada INTERNATIONAL 4/2009

armada INTERNATIONAL 4/2009

On the Armada Bookshelf Sea Devils

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