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a8.90 European D 14974 E Security ESD & Defence 6/2021 International Security and Defence Journal ISSN 1617-7983

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EuropeanSecDef297x210.indd 1 22.03.21 11:36 Editorial

Afghanistan – Another War Lost?

At the end of April, after almost 20 years in theatre, the United States decided to withdraw its troops from Afghanistan, thus terminating the Resolute Support Mission and completing it – preferably – by 11 September 2021, the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in the US. As a result, all other western countries with military troop contingents in the country decided to follow suit and also end their military presence in Afghanistan. Following the announcement of the United States’ troop withdrawal, politicians in this country – Germany – rushed to affirm that there was no other alternative for Germany, either, as the station- ing of German troops in Afghanistan was only possible with the military support of the American allies. So far, the mantra of the German Government, as well as NATO, had always been: withdrawal is not linked to calendar dates, but to the situation in-country. The Grand Coalition had just extended the mandate with the main point being that the country would be in danger of descending into chaos and civil war if the troops left prematurely. Prevention of a civil war – has that been the objective of the mission? Well, if I remember correctly, there was no mentioning of a civil war threat when the United States entered into an agreement with the so-called “Northern Alliance” (formerly National Islamic Front of Afghanistan), a loose coalition of rival Tajik, Uzbek and Hazara warlords, in October 2001. The objective clearly was to destroy the power of Al Qaida including – which appeared to be the premier objective of the mission to many observers – finding and eliminating Osama Bin Laden as the main suspect of the 9/11 attacks. With strong air support by US troops, the Northern Alliance managed to conquer the country’s capital Kabul and the provincial capitals of Kandahar and Kun- duz, following which the United Nations’ Security Council mandated the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to protect the interim government under President Hamid Karzai and to assist in the reconstruction of the country. When – after months-long global public announcements – the ISAF troops arrived in theatre in December 2001, they were forced to realise that Osama Bin Laden had gone elsewhere and that the rules of war against regular forces could not be applied to the fight against irregular forces like the Taliban and Al Qaida. Within a short period of time, ISAF troops became increasingly involved in combat operations in the South and in the East without, however, achieving a decisive victory. And that has remained unchanged until the present day. During the early phase of the operation, the German Government avoided using the terms “war” or “combat” in connection with the Afghanistan mission, rather, the operation was advertised as something to – as a German Army major deployed to Afghanistan expressed himself during a TV interview – “dig fountains in fanciful apparel” and thus provide human assistance to the deserving population of the country. But what has been achieved after all these years? According to NATO, “…ISAF’s primary objective was to enable the Afghan Government to provide effective security across the country and develop new Afghan security forces to ensure Afghanistan would never again become a safe haven for terrorists.” According to other sources, ISAF’s “…main purpose was to train the Afghan forces and assist in rebuilding government institutions.” As we are all well aware, these objectives could not be met, rather, the political situation and development of the country is still decisively influenced by the Taliban and the withdrawing troops, above all, are afraid of forthcoming attacks by the Taliban, in response to which they have assigned special forces units for the protection of that logistic effort. A recent assessment by the Watson Institute for International Studies at Brown University had the costs invested in the US military’s presence in Pakistan, Iraq and Afghanistan at between US$3.2Tr and US$4Tr (US$4,000,000,000,000), of which the Afghanistan share is US$1.1Tr. Taxpayers in Germany invested €12.5Bn. The total number of war victims in the three theatres is estimated at around 360,000, of which 225,000 were in uniform. Was it worth the effort?

Jürgen Hensel 6/2021 · European Security & Defence 1 Contents Photo: UK MoD Photo: Rheinmetall

ASW torpedoes can be launched from ships, Page 46 For most military, police and security forces Page 61 dropped from fixed wing aircraft and helicopters, around the world, body armour is now a or carried to their target area. standard item of kit.

SECURITY POLICY 58 The British Army' EW Posture Thomas Withington 14 Protecting the EU’s External Borders: 61 Body Armour Requirements: An Update on Frontex Fit for Purpose Giulia Tilenni Tim Guest 18 NATO Defence Against Terrorism 66 Containers for Logistic Support Dr. Andreea Stoian Karadeli Christopher F. Foss 24 Syria in 2021: 70 Land-Based Offensive Hypersonic A Transition Conflict with no Lasting Resolution Weapon Programmes Dr. Andreea Stoian Karadeli Sidney E. Dean 74 Upgrading Medium Armoured Fighting Vehicles ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY Christopher F. Foss

29 Czech IFV Procurement Programme 77 CBRN Respiratory Protection and Filters Martin Smisek Dan Kaszeta 34 Japan’s Complicated Machine Gun Procurement Sumitomo Heavy Industries withdraws from ongoing machine gun tender. INDUSTRY & MARKETS Shinichi Kiyotani 80 Contract Management in Australia Capability Priorities for Dismounted Combat 36 Stephen Bunce Manuela Tudosia 85 "We see an increasingly complex OPVs for and from Europe 42 threat environment." Bob Nugent Interview with Kevin Davis, Vice-President of Product and 46 Unmanned Surface and Underwater Vessels Channel Management, TCI International, Inc. European Developments 87 “Our ASCOD is the only platform in the current Sidney E. Dean Czech competition which can be adapted to a medium main battle tank.” 52 The TEJAS Light Combat Aircraft Interview with Juan Escriña, GDELS Vice President for India’s Single Largest Indigenous Defence Order Tracked Vehicles & Artillery and Managing Director of Suman Sharma GDELS-Santa Bárbara Sistemas (SBS) 54 Killing the Lurking Submarine Doug Richardson

2 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 Image: Raytheon Photo: Audun Rikardsen IMU TACTICAL GRADE

Development of agile hypersonic weapon Page 70 systems has become a priority for technologically advanced armed forces.

VIEWPOINT FROM …

51 India Debalina Ghoshal 1:1 scale

69 New Delhi Suman Sharma STIM318 – the latest Sensonor tactical grade Inertial Measurement Unit, IMU. COLUMNS Increased performance for demanding

1 Editorial guidance and navigation applications.

4 Firms & Faces • ITAR free • Small size, low weight, power and cost 6 ESD Spotlight • Insensitive to magnetic ﬁ elds 83 Masthead • Low gyro bias instability (0.3°/h) • Low gyro noise (0.15°/√h) • Low accelerometer bias instability (0.003 mg) Index of Advertisers • Low accelerometer noise (0.015m/s/√h)

AOC Europe 43 • User programmable BIAS Offset Bofors Test Center 9 • Weight 57 grams, volume <2cu.in, power 5V, 1.8 W DSEI 3rd cover DST 28, 33 STIM318 is a design that is ﬁ eld proven in Military Land Eurofighter 2nd cover navigators, Missile systems, Target acquisition systems, Fischer Connectors 7 Airborne surveillance, DIRCM, Remote Weapon GDELS 29 IAI 41 Systems, Launch vehicles and Satellites. ITEC 49 Qualiﬁ ed according to high-performance aircraft vibration John Cockerill Defense 4th cover standard. Koehler 84 Leonardo 23 Lürssen 14/15 MBDA 13 Mittler 27 When size, performance and robustness matter NBC Sys 11 Pearson Engineering 30 Raytheon ELCAN 35, 39 [email protected] • sensonor.com Rheinmetall 31 Sensonor 3 Systematic 37 6/2021 · European Security & Defence 3 WB Group 19 Firms & Faces

Incora Opens New Global Corpo- Rheinmetall Joins UNGC EUMET to rate Headquarters in Fort Worth (jr) Rheinmetall is joining the United Na- Develop Engine for NGF (jh) Incora has announced the opening of its tions Global Compact (UNGC). In becom- (gwh) MTU Aero Engines (Germany), Safran new global headquarters in Fort Worth. Fort ing a signatory, the company pledges to Aircraft Engines (France) and ITP Aero (Spain) Worth was previously home to two com- uphold the 10 principles of the UNGC have agreed to jointly develop, manufacture pany offices, which have consolidated into regarding sustainable and responsible and support the engine for the Next Gen- business management and development. eration Fighter (NGF), a core element of the Even before joining the UNGC, Rheinmet- Future Combat Air System (FCAS), MTU said all oriented its sustainability strategy to in a statement.

Photo: Incora the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) To this end, MTU and Safran have founded of the UN. For example, the group aims to European Military Engine Team (EUMET) be CO2-neutral by 2035. In this context, GmbH on a 50:50 basis, which, with ITP as reduced consumption of energy and wa- the main partner, intends to provide each ter is crucial. partner a one-third share of the work as the The UNGC is the world’s biggest sustain- sole contractual partner of the nations partic- ability initiative. Enacted by the UN in ipating in the FCAS programme. The manag- 2000, it currently numbers 12,765 coming director of EUMET will be nominated by the new, expanded location. Incora’s largest panies from 160 countries. All of the sig- Safran and MTU Aero Engines’ Programme warehouse, by volume, is in the Dallas-Fort natories are committed to running their Director, Michael Schreyögg, will chair the Worth area, and some of the company’s businesses in accordance with ten uni- EUMET shareholder meeting. EUMET’s head largest customers and suppliers are nearby. versally acknowledged principles relating office will be located in Munich. Consolidating Fort Worth-area offices and as- to human rights, labour standards, en- sets is part of a global plan to combine two vironmental protection and combatting legacy companies, Wesco Aircraft and Pat- corruption. Furthermore, the signatories

tonair, into one Incora. The integration creates are obliged to report annually on their Image: MTU efficiencies, encourages collaboration, and lev- progress regarding implementation. erages growth in all regions. Incora’s executive Based on the 10 principles and the 17 leadership team will be based in Fort Worth. SDGs, the UN – acting in cooperation with signatories to the UNGC – is work- Celia Pelaz Joins Hensoldt ing to achieve an inclusive and sustain- Management Board able global economy that benefits all (jr) HENSOLDT has peoples, communities and markets. Within EUMET, Safran Aircraft Engines will appointed Celia lead the design and integration of the engine Pelaz to the Man- Escribano and GMV Join Sener and MTU Aero Engines will lead all main- agement Board in the SMS Initiative tenance and service activities. As the main Photo: Hensoldt of the company, (jh) Spanish companies Escribano Me- partner of EUMET, ITP Aero will be fully in- a move effective chanical & Engineering, GMV and Sener volved in the design of the engine and will from 1 July 2021. Aeroespacial have signed a partnership develop the low-pressure turbine and the As Chief Strategy agreement to work together to develop nozzle, among other components. Officer, she will solutions in the area of missile systems To take the FCAS programme to the next lev- be responsible for and other high-performance guided mu- el, the next research and technology phase the strategic positioning of Hensoldt as well nitions, as part of the SMS initiative re- (R&T 1B/2) is expected to go through the as its business development. The company cently launched by Sener Aeroespacial. national approval processes by the middle of also announced that she will continue to The agreement continues the process of this year. This is according to the timetable of lead the Spectrum Dominance and Air- consolidating a new national industrial the respective governments. borne Solutions division as well as Hensoldt actor that brings together the combined Ventures. With this step, the Management capabilities and experiences of the three BIRD Aerosystems Board of HENSOLDT will be expanded from companies. As a result, the national in- to Open New Office three to four members. dustry expects to improve the conditions (jr) BIRD Aerosystems, an Israeli developer Prior to heading the Spectrum Dominance for its involvement in national and inter- of airborne missile protection systems and and Airborne Solutions Division, she was national programmes in the area of mis- airborne surveillance, information and ob- Head of Strategic Business Development. sile systems. servation equipment, is to open an office In addition to strategic topics, this role in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This forms included corporate communication, Hen- part of the expansion of the company’s soldt’s international businesses and the activities in the Latin American market, the company’s M&A activities. Before that, company said in a statement.

she held various management positions Photo: Escribano The company already has international of- at Airbus and its predecessor companies. fices, including Israel, the USA, Cyprus, and Celia Pelaz holds a degree in Engineering Switzerland while establishing another one from the Bilbao Chamber of Commerce in Singapore. The new office in Argentina University (Escuela Universitaria de la Cá- will be responsible for the marketing and mara de Comercio de Bilbao). business development activities in Central

4 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 • Armin Papperger, Chairman of the Ex- ness Unit based in Canberra. Here, a pool of ecutive Board of Rheinmetall AG technicians and trainers with Explosive Ord- • Helmut P. Merch (Finance) nance Disposal (EOD) robot maintenance • Peter Sebastian Krause (HR). experience can provide maintenance for Citing the prime reason for his decision, Mr Milrem Robotics’ UGVs and RCVs. Grotendorst stated that due to the strate- The company plans to leverage its Adelaide

Photo: Eden Communications gic reorientation, maintaining a division of Manufacturing Centre and unique XTclave™ responsibilities based on the old separation technology for novel ballistic protection de- and South America. It will provide mainte- of the group into Defence and Automotive sign, alongside other engineering and manu- nance and support services to the compa- entities no longer made sense, a view shared facturing services, for Milrem Robotics’ UGV ny’s customers in the region. systems.

Leonardo Buys New OMFV Teaming Agreement HENSOLDT Shares (jr) Hanwha Defense has signed an exclusive (jr) Leonardo S.p.A. has signed a purchase teaming agreement with Oshkosh Defense agreement for 25.1 per cent of the shares Photo: euro-sd.com for the digital design phase of the US Army’s in HENSOLDT AG with HENSOLDT’s major- Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV) ity shareholder Square Lux Holding II S.à r.l., programme. The agreement is followed by a portfolio company of investment funds Hanwha Defense’s recent success in Aus- advised by KKR. HENSOLDT will thus gain tralia’s LAND 400 Phase 3 armoured vehi- one additional major shareholder and future by the Supervisory Board and his fellow Ex- cle modernisation programme and LAND potential strategic partner. The sale is sub- ecutive Board members. It is felt that a leaner, 8116’s acquisition of the AS9 Self-Propelled ject to the usual regulatory closing condi- more agile management structure is neces- Howitzer and AS10 fully-automated Ar- tions. Square Lux Holding II S.à r.l. will still sary in order to bind the two divisions that moured Ammunition Resupply Vehicle. hold around 18 per cent of HENSOLDT after emerged from the former Automotive or- The OMFV programme is a key element of completion of the sale to both Leonardo ganisation – Sensors and Actuators, and Ma- the US Army’s Next Generation Combat and Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW), terials and Trade – more closely to the three Vehicle modernisation effort that includes which acts on behalf of the German Gov- former Defence divisions, particularly with replacing the M-2 BRADLEY IFV which ernment. Square Lux Holding II S.à r.l. had regard to achieving the sought-after transfer has served since the early 1980s. The pro- agreed to sell a stake of 25.1 per cent to KfW. of technology between all group divisions. As an independent, listed company, HEN- Milrem Robotics & XTEK Ltd Reach Deal (jr) Milrem Robotics has signed a distribution and maintenance agreement with XTEK Ltd. Photo: euro-sd.com The robotics and autonomous systems de- Photo: euro-sd.com veloper has also delivered the first THeMIS UGV to the Australian homeland security specialist for trial, evaluation, and demonstration purposes. Including Australia, the gramme’s five phase acquisition plan will SOLDT has successfully expanded its leading THeMIS UGV has been acquired by 11 coun- award the first contract in the fourth quarter market position in recent months. As a tech- tries, including Estonia, France, Germany, the of Fiscal Year 2021, with the first units re- nology partner and strategic supplier of key Netherlands, Norway, the UK and the US. ceiving their OMFVs in the fourth quarter of national technology, HENSOLDT plays a sig- Following the signing of an MoU in the end Fiscal Year 2028. nificant role in decisive areas of the German of last year, Milrem Robotics also signed an Hanwha Defense is a wheeled and tracked defence and security sector. The shareholder agreement with XTEK appointing the latter combat vehicle and weapons systems devel- structure therefore safeguards both German as the exclusive distributor of the THeMIS, oper in the Republic of Korea with experience, security interests and the independence of the Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV), capabilities and technology in proven direct the company. and Milrem’s Intelligent Functions Integra- and indirect fire solutions. Hanwha Defense has tion Kit (MIFIK) in Australia and New Zea- provided over 7,000 combat vehicles to the Re- Changes on the Executive Board land. XTEK has extensive experience and public of Korea with exports to Estonia, Finland, of Rheinmetall expertise in unmanned vehicle distribution, India, Malaysia, Norway, Poland and Turkey. (jr) Jörg Grotendorst, until now Rheinmetall maintenance and value-added services. Hanwha Defense has designed and is devel- AG Executive Board member for Automo- The company’s established maintenance oping the REDBACK IFV for Australia with its tive, has asked the Supervisory Board to re- facilities include a Logistics Engineering Busi- enhanced lethality, excellent power, superior lieve him of his duties. The structure of the situational awareness and best protection in Executive Board will be modified accordingly. class. The REDBACK was shortlisted in 2019 Following elimination of the Automotive as one of the two final candidates for the holding and the resulting direct control of all LAND 400 Phase 3 programme, with three group divisions by the Executive Board, this prototype vehicles now undergoing tests and body will now consist of three rather than Photo: euro-sd.com evaluations for the Australian Army’s Risk Miti- four members: gation Activity.

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 5 European Security & Defence Spotlight

MTU Generators Diehl Defence has already produced various for the US Navy versions of the US SIDEWINDER in large num-

(jr) Rolls-Royce has been selected to supply Image: ECA bers for European NATO partners since the its MTU naval generator sets for Phase One early 1960s. Today, Diehl Defence’s portfolio of the US Navy’s CONSTELLATION (FFG-62) includes repairs and modernisations for the class frigate, previously known as the FFG(X) internationally successful air-to-air missile. programme. Rolls-Royce has received a contract for the first ship-set to provide four MTU Elettronica to Provide U212 naval generator sets, each rated at 3000 NFS Electronic Warfare Suite kWe, the company said in a press release. The Royal Australian Navy's SEA 1905 Mari- (jr) Elettronica has signed a supply contract The CONSTELLATION class frigate is a multi- time Mine Countermeasures (MCM) pro- with Fincantieri for the Electronic Warfare mission warship designed for operation in gramme was announced in April 2019 to re- (EW) suite of the Italian Navy’s new subma- littoral and blue water environments to con- place the RAN’s four remaining HUON class rines. The company said in a press release duct air, anti-submarine, surface and elec- Minehunter Coastal (MHC) vessels. In Janu- that this would be done in the framework tronic warfare. The generator sets are based ary 2021, Australia’s Minister for Defence also of the U212 NFS programme managed by on the MTU 20V 4000 M53B engine and stated that the new ships would be based on OCCAR. The contract includes the provision provide a total power output of 12 MW for the ARAFURA class offshore patrol vessel. of two suites for the first batch of platforms propulsion and on-board power supply. The vessels will deploy modular unmanned and two additional systems as an option for The flexible design engineering of the frig- autonomous systems that will provide them future batches. ate’s CODLAG propulsion system is to allow with minehunting and military survey ca- Elettronica is already the supplier of the EW for energy-efficient diesel power generation pabilities. The request for tender SEA 1905 equipment in the framework of the FREMM for propulsion at normal cruising speeds Phase 1 - Tranche 1 is expected for the fourth and PPA programmes, also managed by OC- with extended range, while enhancing anti- quarter of 2021. Admiral The procurement CAR, and aims to extend the cooperation submarine capability in its quiet diesel-electric programme is expected to reach a volume of to EU co-funded projects. Electromagnetic configuration. When completed, the lead ship AU$3.3 - AU$5Bn (€2.1 - 3.2Bn)for the future Spectrum Operation (EMSO) is a key ena- will be nearly 500 feet in length, accommo- mine warfare and hydrographic vessels. bler for many diversified operations. In the underwater domain, EMS management and Successful LaGS Test superiority support the submarine’s capabil- (jr) The SIDEWINDER AIM-9L guided missile’s ity to operate without influencing the sce- capability has been extended with new laser nario directly. guidance for use against mobile ground tar- Through a very

Photo: MTU America gets. This is the result of a firing campaign high level of func- conducted by the German Federal Office of tional integra- Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Tech- tion, the suite is dating up to 200 Sailors and being capable nology and In-Service Support in cooperation able to perform Photo: euro-sd.com of sustained speeds of more than 26 knots. with the Swedish procurement agency FMV self-protection, Fincantieri Marinette Marine (FMM) of Mari- – supported by a team of experts from Diehl surveillance and nette, Wisconsin, was awarded the build defence as the developer and manufacturer. intelligence tasks, contract for the project, which includes the The Laser-guided SIDEWINDER (LaGS) was granting excellent performances on the design and construction of the lead ship and deployed from a Saab JAS 39 GRIPEN at the whole electromagnetic spectrum, from the option to build up to 10 ships in total Vidsel firing range. During the second proof communication to radar bands. during Phase One. A potential planned sec- firing, a stationary ground target and two The suite has an integrated RESM/CESM ond phase would include another 10 vessels. moving targets were successfully engaged antenna. Two further antennas form part Construction on the first ship is expected to with one direct hit. of the system, the first for surveillance and begin later this year. In 2016, Diehl Defence received a develop- detection tasks in the radar band with the ment contract for the reconstruction of the latter as a warning antenna. ECA Group and TMR Sign AIM-9L SIDEWINDER into a “short-range Furthermore, the U212 NFS EW suite relies MoU for the RAN’s MCM powered effector” in order to engage on a software-defined architecture. The EW Programme targets on the ground. For this purpose, suite will be provided with an electronic war- (jh) Australian company Total Marine Tech- the missile’s guidance and control unit was fare management unit able to collect and nology (TMT) and the French company fundamentally modernised. The infrared manage the information coming from both ECA GROUP have signed a Memorandum detector and signal processing of the pre- radar and communications EW sensors. of Understanding (MoU) to combine their vious seeker head were replaced by a Semi expertise in the domain of unmanned tech- Active Laser (SAL) sensor with modern digi- US Army Announces nologies in order to partner for the SEA tal signal processing. Divestiture of STRYKER Vehicles 1905 Phase 1 - Tranche 1 programme of (jh) The U.S. Army will divest all STRYKER the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) for their Mobile Gun Systems by the end of fiscal future Maritime Mine Countermeasures year 2022. This decision comes after a and Military Survey Capability. comprehensive analysis highlighted ob- Besides, TMT and ECA GROUP are in discus- solescence and systemic issues with the

sions with other possible Australian partners Photo: Diehl Defence system's dated cannon and automatic to further enhance their offer. loader.

6 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 While updating and providing new capabili- teme GmbH holds 55 per cent of the shares ties is most commonly associated with mod- in the RBSL JV, the successor to Vickers De- ernisation, the divestiture of obsolete systems Photo: RSBL fence Systems, which delivered the CHAL- is also an essential component because it LENGER 2 25 years ago. frees up resources and manpower that can be applied to other critical capability needs. Rheinmetall Unveils HX3 (jr) Rheinmetall has unveiled the HX3, the USMC Begins ARV Search latest generation of its HX family of heavy- (wge) To replace the approximately 600 LAV- Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) have duty trucks. The company claims that this 25s (Light Armoured Vehicles) in use since agreed on a €930M contract to supply 148 completely redesigned, future-proof, mili- the 1980s, the US Marine Corps (USMC) has CHALLENGER 3s between 2021 and 2030. tary truck, addresses contemporary military launched a competitive prototype phase for Planned IOC for the MBT is 2027 followed and automotive trends by drawing on in- an Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle (ARV). by FOC in 2030. For Rheinmetall, this results novative new technologies providing better The requirement is for a scaleable system in a contract value of €770M (excluding tax- protection, improved mobility, enhanced platform with an es), the company stated. driving comfort and a digital interface archi- open architec- BAE Systems and Rheinmetall had been tecture for greater operational flexibility and ture and growth involved in C2 LEP with separate devel- future performance upgrades potential. The opments until the activities were merged Photo: Textron ARV is to include through the formation of RBSL. After that, a tethered un- there has been only one supplier, who has manned aerial now been contracted. Four work packages system with au- are described in the development contract: Photo: Rheinmetall to-launch and 1) For surveillance and reconnaissance, day/ recovery capabilities alongside a robust bat- night combat capability is to be estab- tlefield management and communication lished with third generation thermal im- systems. A Lockheed Martin STALKER UAS agers in the observation channels for the will be provided for the prototype. The max- commander and gunner. imum weight requirement is 18.5 tonnes 2) For fire control, a digital fire control sys- Like its predecessors, the vehicles of the new and four vehicles are to be transported si- tem with central computer, control panel HX3 generation are Military-Off-The-Shelf multaneously on a LCAC 100 Ship-to-Shore and interface to the weapon system. (MOTS) products, designed for military op- Connector (SSC). 3) For mobility, hydropneumatic suspen- erations. Textron Systems, manufacturer of the LCAC sion as well as revised 100, presented its COTTONMOUTH proto- air filters, fuel injection, type with integrated multi-spectrum sensors cooling and transmis- on 4 May. The 6×6 vehicle, equipped with sion. two jet nozzles for operations in water, is 4) For the electronic archi- operated by two people and offers space for tecture, a modern data five additional personnel. Situational aware- bus for the distribution HIGH-PERFORMANCE ness is supported by the “See-Through” of video data with in- technology of Elbit’s IronVision system. terfaces conforming CONNECTIVITY SOLUTIONS The USMC intends to award three contracts to the Generic Vehicle WHEN IT MATTERS MOST. for ARV prototypes and then test and evalu- Architecture (GVA) ate them. Two are to be selected for the En- and improved man- Fischer Ultimate™ 80 gineering and Manufacturing Development machine interfaces. (EMD) phase scheduled to begin in 2024. In addition – at Rhein-  NATO STANAG 4695 compatible Subsequent production of the approxi- metall’s suggestion – the  Ultra-rugged, lightweight mately 500 vehicles is to take place over a 120-mm smoothbore  IP68 sealing 2m/24h, even unmated five-year period. high-pressure gun L55A1  Available with 6 or 7 contacts General Dynamics Land Systems is reported will be integrated. The to also have submitted a bid for the proto- gun can fire the ammuni- Fischer Freedom™ Series type ARV. The potential competitor BAE Sys- tion currently offered by  Ready-to-use with 360° mating tems, which already produces the USMC’s Rheinmetall as well as that freedom, IP68 sealing, EMI shielding Amphibious Combat Vehicle, has not yet which will be available in  Easy to integrate into tactical vests confirmed a commitment in this regard. the future – including sub- & backpacks - MOLLE/PALS compatible calibre fin stabilised kinetic  4 – 7 signal & power contact tracks – up to 24AWG, USB 2.0 and Ethernet CHALLENGER 3 ammunition or program- Contract Signed mable multi-purpose am- (gwh) The CHALLENGER 2 Lifetime Exten- munition. Fischer MiniMax™ Series sion Project (C2 LEP) has further devel- Much of the modernisa-  High-speed data transfer: USB 3.0, oped the UK’s MBT to provide the British tion work is to take place HDMI, Ethernet up to 10 Gbit/s Army with a state-of-the-art system that will at RBSL’s site in Telford,  High-density miniaturization, signal & power last until at least 2035. The UK MoD and UK. Rheinmetall Landsys-  Reliability, IP68 sealing 20m/24h

fischerconnectors.com European Security & Defence Spotlight

The new HX3 generation embodies a plat- Aids Computer (DAC) evaluates the inform concept designed for logistic opera- coming data, assesses it according to the tions and tactical scenarios alike. Thus, the Photo: WFEL flight condition, determines the threat us- HX3 will be available in 4×4, 6×6, 8×8 and ing integrated databases, warns the pilot 10×10 versions. New systems such as the fully and initiates or suggests countermeasures. Automated Load Handling System (ALHS) The existing DASS system protects the EU- and Universal Torsion-Resistant Subframe ROFIGHTER from radar- and infrared-guid- (UTRS) will further facilitate its classic logis- ed missiles. The integrated sensor and jam- tics role. Yet, the HX3 is also better able than erpack blocks (transmission, engine and ming equipment also provides situational ever to serve as a systems carrier for complex cooling systems), beginning delivery in au- awareness and enables electronic deception weapon and radar systems. For example, tumn 2022 and covering a 10-year period mechanisms. these include truck-based artillery systems, of supply. The open and programmable system allows which are likely to gain importance in com- As part of KMW's UK Boxer Technology national operators to have full control over ing years. In combination with the newly Transfer Programme, this particular contract mission data and fine-tune the system to the developed Artillery Truck Interface (ATI), the will sustain and create at least 20 jobs in actual situation on the battlefield. In mission HX 10×10 could be utilised in future as the the North of England at David Brown San- and flight preparation, mission data can be standard basis for various artillery solutions tasalo (DBS) and its wider supply chain. In fed into the PRAETORIAN system in a com- or similar systems. the scope of the £30 million order the as- parably short time. Various assistance systems are to ensure sembled and tested Powerpack units are As part of the Eurofighter Long Term Evo- enhanced safety in everyday operations, delivered to WFEL’s BOXER MIV production lution (LTE) study, EuroDASS is working whether for soldiers deployed in the field or facility in Stockport for integration. with Eurofighter partner companies and in civilian settings. Coupled with assistance The BOXER vehicles are provided to the UK nations to consider national requirements systems such as the Emergency Brake Assist, MoD as part of the £2.3Bn contract placed and how they can be met in an agile and Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure with the ARTEC consortium in November cost-effective way that preserves the EU- Warning, a new electronic and electric archi- 2019. ROFIGHTER’s capabilities until it is retired, tecture guarantees has been implemented while supporting the development of fu- - with a view to future autonomous driving. PRAETORIAN DASS ture combat aircraft. As an option, HX3 trucks can be equipped for QUADRIGA EUROFIGHTERSs In the scope of the QUADRIGA programme, with an armoured cab, the protection level (gwh) In the scope of the QUADRIGA the fourth tranche of EUROFIGHTERs was of which can be modularly augmented. programme 38 EUROFIGHTERs will be ordered by NETMA in November 2020. The Furthermore, in addition to conventional equipped with the upgraded PRAETORIAN 38 aircraft are to be delivered from 2025 camouflage, the new generation of vehicles Defensive Aids Subsystem (DASS). Prime and replace the Tranche 1 EUROFIGHTERs. feature a digital stealth mode. If necessary, all contractor Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH Completion of the operation is scheduled data transmission and receiver functions can has commissioned the EuroDASS consor- for 2030. be switched off to reduce the vehicle’s digital tium (consisting of Leonardo with Selex ES, signature. As an active self-defence measure, Elettronica (ELT), Indra and Hensoldt) to fur- FN Herstal Introduces EVOLYS the reinforced roof offers space for weapon (jh) FN Herstal introduced a new machine stations with heavy weaponry. As a further gun named FN EVOLYS during a digital option, additional active and passive protec- product launch event in early May. Ac- tion systems are available, including Rhein- cording to the company, FN EVOLYS is an metall’s ROSY Rapid Obscuring System and unltralight weapon that combines the fir- the very short-range Active Defence System. ing capabilities of a belt-fed machine gun An identical components concept and a with ergonomics and balance similar to an high level of functional commonality be- assault rifle. The gun has been developed tween different models facilitate adminis- Photo: Bundeswehr Toni Dahmen in two calibres, namely 5.56x45mm NATO tering and operating the fleet of vehicles. and 7.62x51mm NATO. The weapon has Current international HX user includes Ger- a weight of between 5.5 and 6.2 kg de- many, the United Kingdom, Australia, New ther develop the protective electronic war- pending on the calibre. Its ambidextrous Zealand and Austria. fare system and provide it for the new fight- fire selector has a semi-auto position to en- Norway and Sweden have also placed sub- er aircraft. In the PRAETORIAN eVo project, gage point targets as with a rifle while the stantial truck orders with Rheinmetall. the DASS is being completely revised and full auto position allows suppressive fire as aligned with future requirements. Next to with a machine gun. The hydraulic buffer David Brown Santasalo to the engine, DASS is the most financially de- provides a steady rate of fire and is said to assemble power packs for UK manding subsystem of the EUROFIGHTER. BOXER MIV PRAETORIAN is a composite system of an- (jh) WFEL and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann tennas, sensors, radar and laser warning (KMW) have announce an agreement devices, decoy launchers, and other decoy

Huddersfield-based David Brown San- equipment distributed throughout the com- Photo: FN Herstal tasalo (DBS) for the supply of powerpack bat aircraft. blocks for the UK BOXER Mechanised The system will be able to detect threats Infantry Vehicles (MIV). David Brown to the aircraft and deploy countermeasures Santasalo will assemble around 250 pow- largely automatically. A central Defensive

8 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 reduce recoil. EVOLYS has been designed environments – that are inaccessible to oth- for operation with a sound suppressor and er vehicles and often to soldiers on foot. The allows for mounting a combination of vari- BvS10’s modular design allows it to adapt to ous in-line optical sights. To avoid a failure Photo: Dassault changing mission requirements. while feeding the first round, cartridges are With this order, Sweden increases its inven- automatically repositioned when the feed tory of BvS10s to 277 vehicles. Additionally, cover is closed if the belt is not correctly Sweden operates several thousand Bv206Ds placed on the feed tray. The last link is au- and Bv206Ss, which date back to a 1970s tomatically ejected, thus enabling fast and design. According to BAE Systems, more reliable reload. than 10,000 vehicles have been sold to over 40 countries. Operators of the BvS10 Saab Receives Order the first acquisition of 24 RAFALES signed in include Austria, France, The Netherlands, for Future Development February 2015 and will bring the number of Sweden and the UK Support of GRIPEN Egyptian RAFALES to 54, making the Egyp- (lh) Saab has received an order from the tian Air Force the second in the world (after Swedish Defence Materiel Administration the French Air and Space Force) to operate FMV to provide future development support such a fleet, Dassault said in a statement. for the GRIPEN fighter from 1 April 2021 to According to press reports, the deal will be 31 December 2022. The total order value is financed through a loan to be re-paid over Photo: BAE Systems SEK998M. at least ten years.

More BvS10 Vehicles for Sweden

Photo: Saab (gwh) The Swedish Army will receive a further 127 BvS10 protected cross-coun- The new FMV order is not related to the Col- try command and transport vehicles. The laborative All-Terrain Vehicle procurement Swedish FMV Procurement Agency award- project, in the sciope of which Germany, ed BAE Systems a €166M contract for the the UK, the Netherlands and Sweden, under production and delivery of these vehicles Swedish project leadership, are looking for a The order is an extension of an existing con- between 2022 and 2024. The vehicles will successor to the Bv206 and BvS10. Germany tract and enables the future development be manufactured at BAE Systems Häg- and the Netherlands have estimated their of the GRIPEN for the Swedish Air Force and glunds in Sweden. needs at 140 and 124 vehicles respectively other GRIPEN users around the world. The The amphibious BvS10 consists of two vehi- from 2024. contract includes the operating and support cle sections on two tracks each, which are of test aircraft and advanced tools such as steered via the connecting articulated joint. INS OZ Handed Over testing rigs and simulators. Test aircraft to- The crew – four soldiers in the front cabin (jr) Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tkMS) gether with these advanced tools are used and eight in the rear cabin – are protected delivered the second of four corvettes to in the verification and validation of GRIPEN against ballistic and explosive threats. The the Israeli Navy. The handover ceremony, C/D and GRIPEN E fighter aircraft. four wide tracks and the large ground clear- which was kept small due to the pandemic, The main share of the order concerns opera- ance enable the vehicle to operate seam- took place in the presence of Jeremy Is- tions at Saab’s facilities in Linköping, Goth- lessly on solid surfaces, over marshy ground sacharoff, the Israeli ambassador to Ger- enburg, Järfälla, Arboga and Växjö. and into bodies of water. many, and his wife, Laura Kam Issacharoff, With a total weight of about 16 tonnes who named the ship INS OZ. In the world More RAFALES for Egypt (loaded), the specific ground pressure is only of shipping, it is a favoured tradition to pass (jr) The Arab Republic of Egypt will purchase about half that of most combat vehicles. on the names of good ships. With the Is- an additional 30 RAFALE aircraft to equip This allows the BvS10 to operate in areas – raeli Navy, however, INS OZ is the first ves- its air force. This new order complements rocks, mountains, snow, swamps and arctic sel to receive this name. European Security & Defence Spotlight

vision with a near infrared (NIR) cut filter as technologies alongside other technologi- well as a digital output. The entire BAA can cal innovations. In doing so, Airbus is able be operated on a tripod up to 40 m away to analyse the potential to enhance future from the vehicle. operations, and at the same time, leverage Photo: euro-sd.com Automatic motion detection also supports these opportunities to further improve air- the user during longer missions. The image craft safety, the company states. VERTEX is fusion function combines the data from the managed by Airbus UpNext, an Airbus sub- thermal imaging camera and the CCD cam- sidiary created to give future technologies era into a fused image. A laser rangefinder a development fast-track by building dem- The SA’AR 6 class corvettes will form the can be used to determine the distance to tar- onstrators at speed and scale, evaluating, backbone of the Israeli Navy for the next gets and terrain points. Laser illuminators and maturing and validating new products and 30 years. tkMS is building the ships in a laser pointers are used to mark targets for en- services that encompass radical technologi- joint venture with German Naval Yards Kiel gagement, such as by laser-guided missiles. cal breakthroughs. based on a delivery contract for four vessels For self-defence with the 12.7 MINIMI ma- signed in May 2015. In May 2019, INS MA- chine gun, a new LAZ 400 thermal imaging GEN was christened in Kiel and delivered camera will be installed, doubling the com- in November 2020. The two other units of bat distance for precise firing. The smoke Image: Airbus the class are also scheduled for deliveries launcher will be mounted in a movable posi- in 2021. The Israeli Navy will provide the tion. Automatic motion detection supports sensor and weapon systems. the user even during longer missions. The image fusion function combines the data HENSOLDT Systems from the thermal imaging camera and the for Dutch FENNEK CCD camera into a fused image. (gwh) Krauss-Maffei Wegmann has commis- The two FENNEK variants with BAA II NL are TopOwl Helmet for NH90 sioned HENSOLDT Optronics to supply 188 the last to be converted in the programme (gwh) The special forces variant of the NH90 performance-enhanced observation and with delivery planned for 2024 to 2027. Af- transport helicopters will be equipped with reconnaissance systems (Beobachtungs- und ter that, the refurbished FENNEKs will be Thales’ TopOwl digital display system. The Aufklärungsanlage, BAA II NL) as part of the available without technical and operational TopOwl helmet system uses augmented real- service life extension of the Dutch FENNEK restrictions until the end of their service life. ity to improve the operational skills of com- for almost €75M, HENSOLDT said in a state- bat helicopter pilots, especially when flying ment. The Netherlands is having its recon- in highly degraded visual environments. To- naissance vehicles, which were introduced in Airbus Introduces VERTEX pOwl has also been selected for the Standard 2006, modernised in order to extend their (jr) Airbus is introducing autonomous fea- 3 upgrade of the TIGER combat helicopter for service life until at least 2034. tures to its FLIGHTLAB helicopter demon- France, Germany and Spain. In the course of the modernisation, the strator in the scope of a project code-named The helmet-mounted vision and display number of units will be reduced from 365 to VERTEX. The VERTEX technologies aim to system has been developed over the past 340. The Forward Observer and Tactical Air simplify mission preparation and manage- 20 years in collaboration with the French Control Party versions will be dropped and ment, reduce pilot workload and increase Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) and Command Post, Driving Training Vehicle safety. helicopter operators. and Mortar Carrier versions will be added. According to the company, the autonomous It offers high-resolution imaging and live The number of Light Reconnaissance and technology elements to be integrated in- video streaming to extend the helicopter's Surveillance Vehicles (LVB) and Fire Support clude: flight envelope in low visibility conditions. It Team (FST) versions - intrioduced in 2027 • Vision based sensors and algorithms uses digital technologies and is cyber-secure - will increase by two to 185 with 138 LVB for situational awareness and obstacle from the outset. and 47 FST. These are the only two versions detection; Pilot fatigue is expected to be reduced with • Fly-by-wire for an enhanced auto-pilot the use of the TopOwl display. Relevant in- function; formation is displayed in the pilot's field of • A touchscreen as an advanced human- view. In addition, a spatialised audio warn- machine-interface; ing system, including ambient noise reduc- • Head-worn display for inflight monitor- tion technology, is integrated. ing and control. TopOwl also provides flight safety features The combination of these technologies will for non-line-of-sight operations by using a

Photo: HENSOLDT/Carl Schulze result in a system that can manage navigation and route preparation, automatic take-off and landing, as well as following

a predefined flight path. The incremental Photo: Thales equipped with the BAA II NL. The elevatable integration of these technologies with the observation and reconnaissance system – FLIGHTLAB demonstrator has begun ahead the central element of these versions – will of a complete demonstration in 2023. be equipped with higher resolution camer- According to the company, it is not Airbus’ as. The YellowKite camera is optimised as a mission to move ahead with autonomy as a day vision/near infrared camera with colour target in itself, but to explore autonomous

10 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 combination of augmented reality, synthetic well known standard features, all these terrain data and information from 2D and vehicles are fitted with customised weap- 3D cameras and other sensors. Designed for on and command & control systems, as day and night operations, it supports pilots Image: Hensoldt required by the customer. The LMV-BR during landings in extremely degraded con- was chosen in 2015 by the Brazilian Army ditions, such as brownout, whiteout, heavy as the new Viatura Blindada Multitarefa, fog and dark night operations. Leve de Rodas (VBMT-LR). The final as- The customised helmet fit system adapts ray (AESA) radars from HENSOLDT. Prime sembly of the vehicles is carried out at the the helmet to each pilot's head shape. The contractor Airbus Defence and Space has Sete Lagoas plant, where several national hardware design of the latest TopOwl hel- awarded a contract worth €200M for the components are integrated. The project met has been further refined to facilitate production and delivery of radar and core foresees the acquisition of 186 vehicles. integration, reduce power consumption and electronic components to the radar supplier, Iveco Defence Vehicles expects to start lower the overall weight. HENSOLDT said in a statement. The order is part of the QUADRIGA pro- Babcock’s Role in the S-80 gramme where the first tranche of EU-

Submarine Programme ROFIGHTERs will be replaced by 38 new Photo: Iveco (jr) Babcock International has assisted its aircraft, which are scheduled for deliveries customer Navantia in the construction of between 2025 and 2030. Production of the first S-80 class submarine for the Span- the radar systems is to be carried out by ish Navy, reaching a major milestone with a European consortium led by HENSOLDT, the unveiling of the boat in Cartagena on with Indra as its main partner. HENSOLDT 22 April, the company writes in a statement. is investing an additional €30M in the con- production of the next batches in 2022. The S-80 programme is the first modern struction of a development centre at its Ulm The company is already supplying the Bra- submarine of Spanish design and is expect- site, where AI-based sensors for a wide zilian Army with the GUARANI VBTP 6×6 ed to deliver a state of the art underwater range of applications will be developed in amphibious armoured family of vehicles. capability to the service. Babcock helped to addition to electronic components for the More than 480 units have been delivered deliver the Weapon Handling and Discharge EUROFIGHTER’s new radar. since 2012, after the signature of the pro- Equipment (WHDE) and Acoustic Counter- The principle of AESA technology is based duction contract in 2009. Several units of measures Launchers (ACM) for the four on electronic control of the radar beam by a VBTP 6×6 have been exported to other boats of the class. large number of individual transmit/receive customers. modules in conjunction with a multi-channel receiver. This makes it possible to track individual targets and, at the same ARFA masks sold Worldwide... time, to scan in front of the aircraft over a large Photo: Babcock International area. Thus, with this technology, tasks can Throughout design and build stages, Bab- be carried out simulta- cock developed a bespoke Spanish supply neously during a mis- chain to manufacture a significant amount sion. With the previous of equipment for the S-80. The weapon mechanical rotating ra- tube outboard lengths and the weapon dar antenna, these tasks embarkation equipment were the largest could only be performed equipment elements manufactured in- in consecutive order. country. Babcock will continue to produce a significant amount of equipment in Spain First LMV-BR for the remaining boats on the programme. Delivered The first submarine, which was unveiled on (jr) The first of 32 LMV- 22 April, will be named ISAAC PERAL (S-81). BR vehicles have been It is expected to be delivered in 2022 and delivered to the Bra- be followed by the three other units named zilian Army during a NARISO MONTURIOL (S-82), COSME GAR- ceremony held at the CIA (S-83) and MATERO GARCIA DE LOS Iveco Defence Vehicles REYES (S-84). plant in Sete Lagoas. The remaining 31 units HENSOLDT to Provide of this batch will be de- QUADRIGA Radar livered by 2022 as part (wge) The 38 Tranche 4 EUROFIGHTER air- of the Army’s mod- craft ordered for the German Air Force will ernisation programme. For any information please contact us : receive Active Electronically Scanning Ar- In addition to LMV’s [email protected] +33 4 77 19 19 21 European Security & Defence Spotlight

LITEF Navigation System for these extensive test series can it be ensured Japanese Helicopters that the high demands placed on the frigates (gwh) The Subaru Bell 412EPX light multi- in real-life operations will be met. purpose helicopter, currently subject to The upcoming tests are the most important introduction by the Japanese Ground Self- milestone so far and an indicator of the Defence Force (GSDF) as Utility Helicopter-2 success of the ship’s development, Damen (UH-2), will be equipped with Northrop wrote in a press release. Following the test Grumman Litef's LCR-100 navigation sys- Picture: author/GDELS/PD Jorchr and simulation phase, further development tem. Over a period of 20 years, the GSDF work will be carried out and hundreds of plans to procure a total of 150 UH-2s. subsystems will be integrated. The LCR-100 Attitude and Heading Refer- The number of vehicles required is estimated Damen will build a total of four F126 frigates ence System (AHRS) uses fibre optic gyro- at up to 210 with a procurement volume of for the German Navy together with partners scopes (FOG) in a Micro-Electro-Mechanical €1.9Bn, with the first vehicles to be delivered Blohm+Voss and Thales after the company System (MEMS). This combination provides by 2023. At least 40 per cent of this is to be was awarded the contract in 2020 as part an extremely precise and reliable sensor fea- provided as value added by Czech companies, of a multi-year European tender. The first turing a small volume, low weight and low first and foremost the state-owned company ship is to be handed over to the German power dissipation (SWAP). VOP CZ. With a production rate of five to 10 Navy in Hamburg in 2028. The ships will IFVs per month, production is expected to be be designed in Germany, with construction completed by 2027. taking place in Hamburg, Kiel and Wolgast. The IFV programme in the Czech Republic Image: Litef is one of many procurement programmes Russia Developing LANCET with which the young NATO members UAV for “Air Mining“ in Eastern Europe are bringing the equip- (Yury Laskin) The Russian ZALA Aero ment of their armed forces closer to the Group will develop the world’s first “air standard of their western neighbours and mining” system to destroy hostile UAVs. increasing interoperability within NATO. The group’s Chief Designer Alexander (More details: page 29 pp of this issue). Zakharov said that the basis of the new system was the LANCET loitering ammu- Hamburg Ship Model Basin nition. The LANCET has a diving speed The sensors used in the LCR-100 enable au- Supports F126 Design of 300 km/h to double the one which is tonomous course alignment (gyrocompass). (gwh) In the early ship design phase of the usually employed by the existing UAV. Mr. This eliminates the need to use interference- F126 class frigate (formerly called Multirole Zakharov displayed a video with the LAN- prone magnetic sensors for heading align- Combat Ship, MKS 180), the Hamburg Ship CET being launched from a ground launch- ment. The LCR-100 can be connected to Model Basin (Hamburgische Schiffbau- er as well as from a mobile platform, such an external GNSS receiver. In this case, the Versuchsanstalt, HSVA) is providing support as a vehicle or a boat. LCR-100 offers "hybrid position solutions" with extensive model test series. This is pri- The LANCET is a family of combat drones for navigation and flight control. marily for the hydrodynamic optimisation combat proven by the Russian special opera- of the ship. The general contractor for the tions forces in Syria. The drones were used Trio of IFVs in F126, Damen Shipyards Group, has opened in multiple successful attacks recorded by Czech Competition up access to German know-how with a ser- their own cameras. ZALA Aero Group has (gwh) The Czech Republic’s procurement vice contract. developed several variants of the Lancet UAV, programme to replace the BVP-2 IVF and which are in series production. the T72 MBT fleets has now entered a new The LANCET-1 is the smallest family member stagfe with the demonstration of technical with a maximum take-off weight of 5 kg, in- and tactical capabilities by three contenders. cluding a 1 kg payload. The flight range is up The procurement process has thus picked up Image: Damen to 40 km, or 30 minutes at a speed between speed again after being threatened by delays 80-110 km /h. LANCET-1 has a multichannel and even a complete halt. guidance system and could be equipped with At the invitation of the Czech Ministry of De- a TV-camera to transmit the target image for fence, BAE Systems has sent the CV90 IFV, hitting confirmation. The drone has a pre- General Dynamics European Land Systems As part of this process, the properties of the contact type fuse. LANCET-1 made its public the ASCOD IFV and Rheinmetall the LYNX planned ship class are tested under real con- debut at the Army-2020 defence exhibition, KF41 IFV for testing. The three vehicles have ditions. Thus, a scale model of the F126 with but details of the UAV’s capabilities were only to demonstrate their performance in the field a length of several metres will be on display released in April. and at the firing range.The tests, which began for the first time. Over the next few months, Two other ZALA made UAVs are the LAN- a few days ago, are to be completed at the the model ship will become subject to a va- CET-3 and KUB- beginning of June without any results being riety of tests at various HSVA test facilities. UAV which have announced. After a further inspection loop, In addition to tests to evaluate the ship’s drag, a take-off weight the Czech Government will make a decision. propulsion and manoeuvring in smooth of 12 kg and are

It is expected that a call for best and final of- water, the ship’s sea behaviour will also be Photo: Zala Aero capable of carry- fers will be issued in time for a procurement looked at and special attention will be paid to ing a payload of contract to be signed this year. a high-quality propeller design. Only through up to 3 kg.

12 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 Corpo_210x297_uk.indd 1 01/07/2019 15:25  SECURITY POLICY Protecting the EU’s External Borders: An Update on Frontex

Giulia Tilenni

Established in 2004, the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union, renamed European Border Coast Guard Agency in 2019 and better known as Frontex, monitors and manages the EU’s external borders. However, recent scandals are undermining the Agency’s ramp-up launched in 2019.

n 11 January, the European Border and mestic security. Establishing a well-func- OCoast Guard Agency presented the tioning border management system with a uniform of its new standing Corps on Twit- clear and smooth asylum mechanism thus ter, commenting that “for the first time, the Photos: Frontex became a top priority for European institu- European Union has its own uniformed ser- tions, which has been extensively working vice”. Raising the number of border guards to create a dedicated legal framework. En- from 5,000 in 2021 to 10,000 by 2027 is hancing the role of Frontex, especially in the among the main innovations introduced management of legal and illegal migration, with the new Agency’s Regulation approved was a logical choice, but its functioning in in November 2019. They should help Fron- the last year, especially in the management tex fulfil its new role of being in charge of Eu- of the latter, puts this political choice into ropean integrated border management and question. ensure “a high level of internal security within the Union in full respect of fundamental Managing Legal Border rights, while safeguarding the free move- Crossings ment of persons”. To allow Frontex to better vided between 2022 and 2029. meet this objective, its budget jumped from The Regulation approved in 2019 was sup- According to official figures, non-EU citizens under €100M in 2014 to almost €400M in posed to open a new era for the Agency, coming from visa-exempt countries account 2020, with an additional €5.6Bn to be pro- which was created in 2004. Events such as for one third of the crossings registered an- the 2015 migration crisis, declared to be nually at the approximately 1,885 official ex- Author over only four years later, and the need to ternal border-crossing points to the EU. With better manage cross-border terrorism and the number of crossings estimated to reach Giulia Tilenni is an international illicit trafficking, have finally convinced the 887 million by 2025, European institutions affairs analyst based in Paris, France. EU 27 of the need of reinforcing external decided to introduce pre-travel authorisa- borders for the purpose of enhancing do- tions for citizens coming from about 60

PERFECTLY EQUIPPED WHEREVER YOUR MISSION TAKES YOU

Lürssen has been a reliable partner for the German Navy for many years. With over 145 years of experience in building naval vessels, we develop solutions for the challenges of today and for the future. As a result, the German Navy is always perfectly equipped. Lürssen wishes them the very best of success in all their endeavours.

Lürssen – The DNA of shipbuilding

More information: or www.luerssen-defence.com states, UK included, and willing to enter the Schengen area. The European Travel Infor- mation and Authorisation System (ETIAS), approved in 2018, is expected to become operational by the end of 2022. Pre-travel authorisations given within this framework will help national authorities gather all the relevant information on travellers before their arrival on EU soil, giving them the possibility to deny the authorisation to travel should this pose a security threat or a risk to public health. ETIAS will cross-check identity data provided by each traveller with those already included in existing information sys- Every year, Frontex organises a photo competition. The winning photo tem such as Europol data, the Visa Informa- of the 2019 contest is shown, taken by Andrzej Ziobro, showing a Polish tion System (VIS) and the Schengen Infor- border guard. mation System (SIS), as well as the Interpol Travel Documents Associated with Notices RAND Europe to assess the main opportuni- States and Frontex in 2013). The European database (TDAWN). In the future, the list of ties, challenges, and requirements for adopt- Border Surveillance System (EUROSUR), a the database used for this goal will be coming AI-based capabilities in border manage- protected communication network allow- pleted with the Eurodac database and the ment. In its conclusions issued on 26 March, ing for information sharing between the Entry/Exit system (EES), and dedicated ETIAS the study identifies maritime surveillance, Agency and National Coordination Centres Watchlist and specific risk indicators. facial recognition, and automated border (NCCs) located in each Schengen country, Frontex will be in charge of running the checks as the three fields in which AI could was created in 2013 to respond to this need. ETIAS central unit, which will work 24/7 to bring more advantages. Analysts have al- Data collected by drones, ships, and the EU's verify that each travel authorisation matches ready interviewed representatives of several Copernicus Earth-observation satellites on with the reference database. Duties will also US and European companies working in this the one hand, and on social media on the include the compilation of the above-men- domain that could bring their highly relevant other, are fused in “situational pictures” tioned Watchlist and risk indicators, the verifi- experience to the Agency (i.e. SparkCogni- describing the evolution of migrant flows cation of the implementation of existing rules tion, T3K Forensic, Aeorum and Satways). along external land, sea and air border. and the protection of the personal data col- In the meantime, Frontex has launched calls Frontex, which is responsible for drawing lected. A 250 people-strong staff in Warsaw for tenders to identify relevant programmes, up these pictures, might decide to launch will likely run the system around the clock. for instance concerning the use of biometric an operation should a potential threat to EU technologies in border checks. borders emerge. In the light of new rules Next-Gen Border Manage- approved in April by the European Com- ment: AI-Based Technologies Illegal Border Crossing mission to modernise EUROSUR, Member States are required, as of 2 May 2021, to Having the best information gathering ca- Gathering and sharing information is key publish regular reports and warnings on pabilities is crucial for day-to-day border for effective border crossing management, relevant and/or potentially dangerous situa- monitoring. State-of-the art, but especially especially when it comes to reducing ille- tions, and to systematically report Search & cutting-edge technologies, could be of great gal migration, fighting cross-border crimes Rescue (S&R) incidents and operations. This help in enhancing the Agency’s efficiency. In and protecting and saving migrants at sea should respond to the weaknesses that the 2019, Frontex commissioned a study from (which became an obligation for Member European Commission, the European Parlia-

PERFECTLY EQUIPPED WHEREVER YOUR MISSION TAKES YOU

Lürssen – The DNA of shipbuilding

More information: or www.luerssen-defence.com The Agency denied any link between the increase in funding of new technologies and pushbacks, but the question is far from being closed.

The Main Wildcard

Since last October, Frontex has been accused of different allegations concerning its internal and external activities. On the one hand, allegations of harassment, and misconduct, which would have led some Frontex officers wearing their new uniform officials, including high level ones, to quit their jobs. On the other, the Agency is si- ment, and the European Court of Auditors still further, and concluded a contract with multaneously accused of mismanagement identified between 2018 and 2019, which Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Airbus and unlawful pushbacks of migrants in the includes limited information sharing from Defence and Space Airborne Solutions Aegean Sea. certain Member States and low interoper- (ADAS) concerning the IAI HERON. This The allegations were raised at different ability of the relevant sharing systems. Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) times by media outlets. In October 2020, a UAV will be equipped for pre-planned or joint investigation by Bellingcat, Lighthouse Relevant ISR Systems ad-hoc missions to be carried out by Greece, Reports, Der Spiegel, ARD and TV Asahi Italy, and Malta. found Frontex’s assets to be actively involved Every year, the Agency lists the required min- In the meantime, the Agency and the EU in at least four incidents which occurred at imum number of items of technical equip- have begun to co-fund Member States’ ac- the Greek-Turkish maritime border between ment (MNITE), detailing the assets needed quisition of relevant technologies for ame- April and August 2020. The in-depth investi- to perform its missions. The list usually in- liorating border management. These pro- gation presented several images and vessel cludes vessels (offshore and coastal patrol cedures have mainly concerned the states tracking data (AIS and transponder data) in vessels, and coastal patrol boats), fixed wing located along the so-called ‘Balkan Route'. support of their findings. aircraft, helicopters, vehicles equipped with Since 2014, number of thermal-imaging de- The EU’s Home Affairs Commissioner, thermal vision and patrol cars. Recently, vices and infrared cameras, alongside heart- Ylva Johansson, immediately called for a more and more funds are allocated for Im- beat detection devices has sharply increased meeting of the Agency’s Management agery and Geospatial intelligence (IMINT in Croatia, Romania, and Hungary. board, consisting of representatives of and GEOINT). Before 2019, these technolo- However, ameliorating the quality and ef- the Members States and the European gies were mainly pledged by Member States ficiency of border control technologies is Commission to assess where the respon- on a voluntary basis. But the new Regula- somehow contributing to tarnishing the sibilities lay. Multiple enquiries have been tions provide space for a different approach. image of the Agency. A 2021 report by launched since. In November, the Euro- In recent years, Frontex has deployed tech- the Border Violence Monitoring Network pean Ombudsman, Emily O'Reilly, opened nologies acquired under service agreements (BVMN) claims that enhanced border control an inquiry upon her own initiative into with companies, especially in the field of technologies have led to increased violence, the Agency’s Complaints Mechanism and unmanned technologies. For instance, the as police in the Balkans ‘weaponise’ new the role and recruitment of Fundamental Agency has used Leonardo Falco EVO for equipment against people on the move. Rights Officers. In 2013, Frontex had in- several trials and some missions, especially Technology used in pushing back migrants troduced the two following Ombudsman at sea, in 2018. Last October, the Agency has contributed to the way in which “racist recommendations from a previous inquiry. decided to push its Intelligence, Surveil- and repressive procedures are carried out”, On 7 December, the European Anti-Fraud lance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities the report stated. Office, OLAF, opened an investigation into the Agency as part of the probe into the four above-mentioned allegations. According to officials, OLAF’s investigators searched the offices of Frontex Director Fabrice Leggeri and of his Head of Cabinet, Thibauld de La Haye Jousselin. In January, Frontex announced it had suspended operations in Hungary, after the EU's top court criticised that country's forci- ble return of migrants to Serbia. Two days, later, on 29 January, the Eu- ropean Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs approved the creation of the Frontex Scru- tiny Working Group (FSWG). The 14 participating MEPs are tasked with assessing the Agency’s compliance with fundamen- The migration crisis in 2015 led to Frontex being strengthened in tal rights, the functioning of its internal financial and personnel terms. management and its transparency and ac-

16 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 SECURITY POLICY  countability towards the European Parlia- ment. With such a decision, the European institution is implementing Article 6 of the EU Regulation establishing Frontex and af- firming its accountability to the European Parliament and the European Council. For the first four months of its activities, officially launched on 23 February, the WG will carry out a fact-finding mission to confirm or deny the allegations of human rights violations. After a meeting with Director Leggeri and Commissioner Johansson in March, the group heard law experts and representatives of NGOs active in Greece and Hungary. Frontex`s JOINT OPERATION POSEIDON SEA, which includes the Greek Final Remarks islands in the Aegean Sea and Crete, was tasked with assisting the EU`s frontline states in border surveillance, and in briefing and information Growing security threats and the illegal activities. migration flows that have hit Europe in the last decade demonstrate that the approach Agency itself is somehow undermining the The first steps of the Agency in its new adopted by the EU 27 when the Schengen results of its build-up from the inside. role are far from convincing. According to Area was created (abolishing internal hard Ensuring respect of the Agency’s code of its managers though, the reason lies in the borders without strengthening external conduct remains a crucial yet complex issue fact that the organisation is too small to deal ones) was totally wrong. The expansion of to address, despite the fact that a dedicated with an increased number of tasks, and es- the Frontex mandate and the sharp increase procedure exists. The pattern of recruitment pecially of border guards. The findings of the in its economic and human resources was of border guards remains unclear, and the different investigations, all ongoing at the supposed to solve the issue by establishing fact that they are selected among national time of writing, will probably tell us more a more coherent and effective management units, each applying different recruitment about the appropriateness of the Member of the EU’s external borders. However, the criteria, does not help. States’ decision. L

ECLIPSE – Protection Against Airborne Drone Threats There is a growing number of counter-UAS options on the market. They are designed to tackle the threats that unauthorised drones pose, such as the targeting of individuals, inflicting physical damage, transporting illegal goods, and stealing trade secrets. However, some of the available products in the market disrupt critical communications infrastructure. In response to the issue, Israeli NSO Group, a company specialising in cyber technology solutions, developed ECLIPSE, a drone defence system that limits electromagnetic interference and eliminates any potential of physical damage. It casts an unseen electronic dome, which automatically detects, takes over and safely lands unauthorised commercial drones in a designated zone, providing an advanced threat mitigation capability. ECLIPSE is designed to protect dense urban environments, stadiums, critical infrastructure, airports, land- marks, private enterprises, and government facilities. This system can also be used to patrol and secure borders. Image: NSO Group

How ECLIPSE's electronic dome might appear if it were visible, showing security coverage

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 17  SECURITY POLICY NATO Defence Against Terrorism

Dr. Andreea Stoian Karadeli

The terrorist phenomenon has evolved, adapting its narratives and strategies to the global context, especially during the global pandemic. Today, terrorism has no borders, nor geographical limitations, threatening citizens worldwide both in the online and offline space.

mong all the international organisa- NATO’s Role Ations that have joined forces against in Counter-Terrorism the terrorist threat following the Septem- Photo: Pxhere ber 11, 2001 attacks, NATO is considered NATO invoked its collective defence one of the most active and experienced clause (Article 5) for the first and only actors in combating terrorism. The Alli- time in response to the 9/11 terrorist ance’s Defence Against Terrorism Pro- attacks. Since then, NATO’s work on gramme of Work (DAT POW) reflects its counter-terrorism has focused on improv- commitment to counter-terrorism and ing awareness of the threat, developing defines, in broad terms, the evolving role capabilities to prepare and respond, and played by the organisation in the fight enhancing engagement with partner against the complex terrorist threat. countries and other international actors. These three main pillars have provided a The Evolution more concrete image for the role played of the Terrorist Threat by NATO in the global fight against terrorism. While the awareness domain In recent years, the globalisation of jihadi has pointed towards enhancing the ex- extremism and the growth in home- change of information and intelligence grown terrorism, motivated by right and between member countries and/with left extremist ideologies, have reflected other international organisations, the major developments in the terrorists’ engagement field was developed around strategy and modus operandi: the estab- the Partnership Action Plan on Terrorism, lishment of a strong connection between with the aim of contributing to regional terrorist organisations, insurgent groups, stability through capacity-building in and international organised crime; the partner countries. Equally important at emergence of homegrown terrorists the strategic level, the most pragmatic and “lone wolves” motivated by various steps were taken under the capabilities ideologies with duplicate tactics; the reli- umbrella, aiming to develop innovative ance on complex funding mechanisms; technology for the protection of vital as- the use of sophisticated audience-orient- sets – only possible through the Defence NATO’s work on counter-terrorism ed propaganda; and access to advanced against Terrorism Programme. This con- focuses on improving awareness technologies that can provide the means sisted of research programmes for bet- of the threat, developing capabili- for unconventional high impact opera- ter protection against Man-Portable Air ties to prepare and respond, and tions. Moreover, the so-called “trinity of Defence Systems (MANPADs) and CBRN enhancing engagement with part- terrorism” has made the lines between attacks, the detection and destruction of ner countries and other interna- various group ideologies more blurred, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), the tional actors. facilitating the symbiotic relationship development of biometric identification between the terrorist actors in terms of systems, and the promotion of cultural Author narrative, strategy and operational tac- awareness in deployed troops. Moreo- tics. While the Salafi-jihadi terrorist threat ver, training and education through a Dr. Andreea Stoian Karadeli is an has gained authenticity through an om- researcher/scholar-practitioner bridge independent researcher based in Tur- nipresent chimera of a perpetuating vir- and lessons learned were attributed to key, an Associate Fellow at the Geneva tual Caliphate, the long-ignored threat the NATO’s Centre of Excellence for the Centre for Security Policy and a Visiting of homegrown terrorism has struck at Defence against Terrorism in Ankara. Researcher at the University of South the heart of our modern societies, moti- Wales. Her interdisciplinary research var- vated by several extremist ideologies. In ies from cultural and intercultural studies NATO Defence this broader context, all the national and Against Terrorism to conflict resolution and focusses on international actors involved in counter- national security and terrorism, with a terrorism have acknowledged the im- In order to pragmatically define and de- specific expertise in the Middle East. perative of developing the capabilities termine NATO’s role in the international needed to counter these threats. community’s fight against terrorism, DAT

18 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 Photo: NATO POW was developed by the Conference of National Armaments Directors (CNAD) and endorsed by NATO Heads of State and Government at the Istanbul Sum- mit in June 2004. According to official statements, the aim of DAT POW is to prevent non-conventional attacks, such as attacks with IEDs and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), and mitigate other challenges, such as attacks on critical infrastructure. As a unique programme built on the principle of common funding, DAT POW is the key-fast route to capability development in the field of counter-terrorism. Under NATO cooperates with partners and international organisations to the DAT POW initiative, individual NATO leverage the full potential of each stakeholder engaged in the global countries, with the support and contribu- counter-terrorism effort. tions from other member countries and NATO bodies, lead projects to develop policy, equipment, training and lessons exploitation and C-IED. DAT POW is also advanced technologies or counter-meas- learned, exercises, trials, and interoper- an integral contributor to NATO Science ures which meet the most urgent security ability demonstrations. Based on an in- & Technology activities and as such, con- needs in the face of terrorism and other ternal assessment, most projects under tributes to the ongoing efforts in the field asymmetric threats. Although its primary the programme focus on finding solu- of emerging and disruptive technologies. focus was on technological solutions to tions that can be fielded in the short term NATO’s DAT POW specifically addresses mitigate the effects of terrorist attacks, and that respond to the military needs of critical counter-terrorism capability de- the programme has since widened its the Alliance. The programme uses new ficiencies, focusing on the most critical scope in line with the current global and or adapted technologies or methods to terrorist threats through three capability regional threats, to support comprehen- detect, disrupt and defeat asymmetric umbrellas: incident management, force sive capability development and includes threats, covering a wide range of areas, protection/survivability, and network en- prototypes and concepts, doctrine, including C-UAS, biometrics, technical gagement.  SECURITY POLICY

maritime protection, such as sensor nets, nual field trials. As a supporting nation, electro-optical detectors, rapid-reaction France is conducting trials to complement capabilities, underwater magnetic barri- the work carried out by UK and NAFAG. Photo: US Army ers and unmanned underwater vehicles. NATO’s effort in countering IEDs is led In 2018 and 2020, under the leadership by several bodies including the Coun- of France, the DAT POW supported "Cut ter Improvised Explosive Devices (C-IED) Away", a multi-national harbour explora- Centre of Excellence in Madrid. Various tion and clearance exercise. Additionally, technologies to defeat IEDs have been under the lead of the NATO Centre for explored, in particular stand-off detec- Maritime Research and Experimenta- tion. The biennial "Thor's Hammer" elec- tion (CMRE) located in La Spezia, Italy, tronic counter-measures trial series and the DAT POW is assessing the use of un- the radio-controlled IED database are derwater autonomous systems to detect two innovative approaches supported by maritime IEDs and of virtual reality for the DAT POW, which are now also being situational awareness. leveraged to support efforts at countering unmanned aircraft systems. The Force Protection/ DAT POW supports the Alliance's over- Survivability Umbrella all ability to meet these commitments through projects covering detection, The force protection/survivability um- identification and monitoring of CBRN brella covers initiatives to improve “all substances, CBRN information manage- Biometrics uses physiological measures and means to minimise the vul- ment, physical protection, hazard man- features, such as fingerprints or nerability of personnel, facilities, equip- agement and CBRN medical counter- iris scanning, as a method of. ment and operations to any threat and measures. DAT POW also supports train- in all situations, to preserve freedom of ing and exercises, including those con- action and the operational effectiveness ducted with live agents. DAT POW has The Incident of the force”: Large Aircraft Survivability also supported the Joint CBRN Defence Management Umbrella against MANPADS; Countering Impro- Centre of Excellence in Vyskov, Czech vised Explosive Devices (IEDs); Detection, Republic, in establishing and enhancing The incident management umbrella com- Protection and Defeat of Chemical, Bio- its CBRN Reach Back capability, such as prises initiatives to improve organisation logical, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) ensuring CBRN expertise is available to and coordination in dealing with a ter- Weapons; Explosive Ordnance Disposal the NATO Command Structure and Allied rorist incident, namely protection of har- (EOD) and Consequence Management; forces in theatres of operations. bours and ports and critical infrastructure and Non-Lethal Capabilities (NLC). The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) protection. In terms of Large Aircraft Survivability and Consequence Management domain Based on the programme of work devel- against MANPADS, exercises and tests aims to improve NATO's capabilities oped by the Alliance, the safe and un- are organised annually to improve sys- through the training of explosive ord- interrupted functioning of harbours and tems and equipment. Among the mem- nance disposal (EOD) teams and opti- ports is critical to the global economy; it is ber countries, the UK is the lead nation mised management of the consequenc- essential for maritime assets to be made for this initiative and the NATO Air Force es of an explosion. DAT POW supports as secure as possible. So far, various tech- Armaments Group (NAFAG) has provided NATO EOD demonstrations and trials, led nologies have been explored to enhance critical expertise and support to the an- by the NATO EOD Centre of Excellence in Trencin, Slovakia. With DAT POW support, the demining community has also tested integrated exoskeletons.

Photo: NATO The Alliance has stressed the need for better response capabilities to minimise collateral damage. If forces can only respond in a lethal manner, civilians and military alike are endangered, and mission failure or political fallout may result. Under the lead of Belgium, Canada and the United States, DAT POW sponsored the demonstration of the use of non-lethal weapons in different environments.

The Network Engagement Umbrella The network engagement umbrella cov- In June 2020, NATO launched its first ever Counter-Terrorism Reference ers initiatives to improve identification Curriculum (CTRC). It supports interested allies and partner countries in and targeting of key nodes of Threat enhancing their capacities to develop national skills and improve coun- Networks: Technology for Intelligence, ter-terrorism strategies. Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Target

20 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 SECURITY POLICY 

Acquisition (ISRTA); improving standardi- person, they can "ping" the system to on personal professional experience as a sation among the Human Intelligence see if nations have a match. Nations can lecturer and course academic adviser at (HUMINT) community; and biometrics. then "ring" the nation asking for data COE-DAT, I am honoured to have had the The ISRTA initiative focuses on the de- if they have something that could help chance to share my expertise, and must velopment of improved tools for early them. The NABIS system allows them emphasise the relevance of the centre in warning and identification of terrorists to share this data in a secure manner. building a bridge between scholars and and their activities. To build on the im- Nevertheless, the DAT POW community practitioners in CT, and enlarging the proved intelligence/information sharing also supported an initiative to develop a knowledge in the field in a multi-discipli- achieved over the past decade in com- biometrics capability in a maritime en- nary manner, based both on theoretical mon operations and to capture these de- vironment. and ground experience. The evolution of velopments for the future, DAT POW sup- terrorism and its diverse forms pushes the ported Unified Vision Trials (2012-2014), Counter-Terrorism CT actors to reach beyond the tradition- organised by the joint capability develop- Education and Training al boundaries of their domain and find ment group ISR. Simulating a real–world strong allies among the academic field. operational environment, the trial sought Throughout the Alliance’s counter-terror- While no one side possesses the whole to determine how well participants could ism struggle, the vital importance of edu- truth, the scholar-practitioner coopera- analyse threat information and identify cation and training in the field has been tion can provide both short- and long- and track threats to form a cohesive intel- acknowledged and promoted within NA- term solutions for the counter-terrorism ligence picture and how easily this could be shared. DAT POW also supports improving tech-

nical interoperability within the NATO Photo: NATO HUMINT community and the ability to analyse human aspects of the operational environment where NATO forces operate under the lead of the HUMINT Centre of Excellence (COE) in Oradea, Romania. Key milestones include the delivery of human aspects of the Operational Environ- ment Study and the development of the HUMINT Operator Toolset (NHOTS). Last, but not least, biometric data are essential to protect forces in theatre, allowing them to identify known or suspected insurgents. NATO's Strategic Commands have recognised that developing and improving this area is a military requirement. NATO's biometrics programme of work and action plan cover all the areas required for a full capability (doctrine, concept, standards, equipment, etc.). With the “Northern Spirit 20” exercise, NATO sought to practice sharing In recent months, NATO's work on bi- biometrics and identity information in a scenario that would simulate ometrics hit two important milestones. several NATO-led operations taking place at the same time at sea, and In September 2020, the NCI Agency on land. hosted a pilot of a new exercise focused on biometrics – NORTHERN SPIRIT TO’s DAT POW. So far, NATO has offered strategy, while developing a spherical 20. Shortly after, the Agency hosted a range of training and education oppor- understanding of the subject. Moreo- a two-day workshop on biometrics in tunities in the field of counter-terrorism ver, COE-DAT can and should serve as a The Hague. NATO's Emerging Security to both Allies and partner countries, great platform for developing a common Challenges Division, through its Defence through a wide network that includes understanding of terrorism as a concept, against Terrorism Programme of Work, the NATO School in Oberammergau, fully accepted by all the member nations. sponsored both events. During both the Germany, mobile training courses run out exercise and workshop, the participat- of Joint Force Commands at Naples and NATO’s 2020 Counter-Terror- ing nations used a system developed by Brunssum and the Centres of Excellence ism Reference Curriculum the NATO Communications and Infor- (COEs) that support the NATO Command mation Agency: the NATO Automated Structure. There are more than 20 COEs Speaking of terms and concepts, in June Biometrics Identification System, or NA- accredited by NATO of which several have 2020, NATO launched its first standard- BIS. Based on official information, the a link to the fight against terrorism. As a ised Counter-Terrorism Reference Cur- NABIS system has a concept called "ping vital component in this fight, the Centre riculum. A result of a scholar-research- and ring" in place to allow nations to of Excellence for Defence Against Terror- er-practitioner team, the reference cur- share data only when necessary, while ism (COE-DAT) in Ankara, serves both as a riculum provides a multi-disciplinary protecting the sources of that data. If location for meetings and as a catalyst for approach that helps learners develop a nation collects biometric data and international dialogue and discussion on the knowledge and skills needed to un- needs more information to identify that terrorism and counter-terrorism. Based derstand terrorism and counter-terrorism

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 21  SECURITY POLICY

Secondly, both the Alliance and the international cooperation between NATO

Photo: NATO and the European Union in the field of counter-terrorism will benefit from the development of a common definition for terrorism that can set the stage for a common CT defence policy understanding. Whether within the EU or NATO, the ambiguity of the term ‘terrorism’, the cor- responding limits of these organisations’ strategies, the minimal political will of member states, and numerous horizontal non-institutional arrangements, all make counter-terrorism policies less consistent and hamper the development of a more strategic approach. Subsequently, these factors need to be addressed in future policymaking. Thirdly, the particular focus on jihadist terrorism and the Middle East hinders the potential for a global, inclusive counter- terrorism strategy. In this regard, the Alliance should equally focus on homegrown terrorist threats, while remaining vigilant to the threat outside of national borders. Therefore, NATO should further Vehicle-borne IEDs are one of the main causes of casualties among establish and develop the direct link be- troops and exact a heavy toll on local populations. tween its broader efforts and homeland security. in order to successfully anticipate and is required. A standard definition allows Since 2001, NATO has rebranded its mitigate potential threats. The 2020 an effective coordinated international defence role, adapting it to the cur- Reference Curriculum addresses current response to terrorism that adopts prag- rent terrorist threat. Later on, in order challenges at the theoretical, operational matic approaches and marshals all in- to enhance its role in counter-terrorism, and technical levels. While the curriculum struments of government and society in NATO’s DAT POW should develop pre- does not claim to provide all the answers, order to combat it. vention capabilities, while it continues its aim has been to highlight foundational to support the current capabilities and and informative material and structures Pitfalls technologies. Nevertheless, NATO should through which ideas and strategies can and Recommendations enhance education and training to build be developed. more effective local security forces in a The Reference Curriculum acknowledges Acknowledging the active role played by crisis like Iraq, Afghanistan or Libya in or- that the study of terrorism and counter- NATO in the global fight against terrorism der to prevent a security vacuum after the terrorism is a methodologically diverse since 2001 and recognising the progress troops’ withdrawal. At the cooperation field, replete with debate, extending even achieved by the Alliance in transforming level, NATO should focus on dialogue to fundamental definitional discussions. its role and capabilities according to the and cooperation with its partners – EU In this regard, the curriculum admits that needs of the global counter-terrorism and UN – for complementary capabilities disagreements persist concerning an ac- struggle, there is still place for improve- that can increase the overall potential of cepted legal definition of terrorism, due ment in order to enhance NATO’s DAT the global counter-terrorism action. Al- to the fact that different countries have POW potential. so, bearing in mind the current threats, different experiences with terrorism that Firstly, due to its nature, NATO is mainly NATO should rethink Article 5 in order to have shaped their separate understand- focused on the fight against terrorism determine how NATO could defeat and ings. Still, the curriculum makes an im- from a military perspective. It is impor- respond to the cyber and hybrid attacks portant theoretical distinction between tant to emphasise that the fight against in Collective Defence relations according ‘terrorism’ and ‘terrorists’; while the fea- global terrorism can only be successful to the actual Treaty. tures of terrorists change according to if comprehensive, international, multi- Counter-terrorism is undoubtedly a com- circumstance, the features of ‘terrorism’, lateral action is taken, which includes plex task and NATO has proved its poten- such as the importance of ideology, re- military operations, in addition to po- tial as an experienced actor in the field. main constant. At the operational level, litical, economic, legal, diplomatic and NATO DAT POW has been developed as further challenges persist, as states are social tools. Although DAT POW reflects the key-fast route to capability develop- forced to essentially calculate the degree the Alliance’s commitment to develop ment in the fight against terrorism. Still, of risk with which they are comfortable, counter-terrorism capabilities beyond as terrorism is continuously evolving, be- juxtaposed against the potential impact the military aspect, the evolution of the coming more dispersed, decentralised, of a successful attack. The international terrorist threat creates the need to adapt and multi-faceted, NATO is also forced to community has recognised that estab- and develop the CT strategy to be one change and adapt its strategy, capabili- lishing a common definition of terrorism step ahead of the terrorist groups. ties and tactics accordingly. L

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Leonardo_Online_Verlinkung.indd 1 06.05.21 14:03  SECURITY POLICY Syria in 2021: A Transition Conflict with no Lasting Resolution

Dr. Andreea Stoian Karadeli

The Syrian War reflects all the weaknesses of our modern society, affecting neighbouring countries, the region and the overall international scene. After ten years of bloodshed, there is no resolution to the crisis. The current ceasefire in Idlib is a fragile step towards peace and stability, but a long way from a long-term solution.

t’s your turn next, doctor!” was the Iline that ignited the “Syrian Spring” in March 2011. Written on a school wall by a group of students - a reference to the previous career of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad - the graffiti triggered a domino of events that echoed dan- gerously in a war on real and virtual grounds, with mixing actors of power

politics, changing interests and, thus Photo: via author / CC/ Christiaan Triebert far, no real winner - only thousands of defeats. The Syrian crisis evolved as a transition conflict, bridging the post-1989 national or regional crisis to current international confrontations such as the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the Taiwan Strait. Syria became a battleground not only for Syrian internal unrest, but for an overlapping of power competition and terrorism issues with regional and international reach. There- Two destroyed tanks in front of a mosque in Azaz to the north fore, the Syrian War should never be of Aleppo in Syria seen or analysed purely as a national/ regional crisis, but rather as a physi- The Syrian Struggle in both Iraq and Syria. Later on, in 2013, cal intersection of global issues. As a and the Terrorist Nexus Daesh formally emerged in northern and result, ten years of conflict have not eastern Syria after overrunning large por- only destroyed a country, but the con- As the Arab Spring spread throughout the tions of Iraq. From that moment on, the sequences have been felt at the wider region, protests were also triggered in Syria Syrian struggle for peace and democracy regional level by all neighbouring coun- by the arrest, torture and eventual death turned into repression, bloodshed and a tries, and also on an international scale, of some of the teenagers who painted the fake “Islamic Caliphate”. by the whole world. school-wall graffiti denouncing country’s As the peaceful Syrian protests turned long-time president, in the city of Deraa. into a perfect opportunity for the terror- Author What started out as peaceful protests, ist Salafi-jihadi groups, the evolution of slowly turned into violence, bloodshed the war has been the result of disastrous Dr. Andreea Stoian Karadeli is an and, eventually, civil war. The response of internal/national decisions, external/inter- independent researcher based in Tur- the Assad regime led to the creation of national mismanagement of the crisis and key, an Associate Fellow at the Geneva the Free Syrian Army in July 2011, a rebel lack of a long-term vision. The channels for Centre for Security Policy and a Visiting group formed by defectors from the mili- foreign fighters to join extremist groups in Researcher at the University of South tary, aiming to overthrow the government, the region were created back in 2003, fa- Wales. Her interdisciplinary research var- turning the revolt into a civil war. While the cilitating the movement of not only Syrians, ies from cultural and intercultural studies internal struggle intensified, various rebel but also foreign fighters—primarily from to conflict resolution and focusses on groups of different ideological affiliations, the Arab world—into Iraq. Although the national security and terrorism, with a mostly Salafi-jihadi, have emerged across Salafi-jihadi groups were weakened in Iraq specific expertise in the Middle East. the country, seizing the opportunity repre- after Zarqawi’s death in 2006, the Arab sented by the security and stability vacuum unrest, the protests in Syria, the American

24 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 SECURITY POLICY  troop withdrawal in 2011, and some of Assad’s poor decisions helped the “global neo-jihad” reorganise and reach its highest achievement – an Islamic Caliphate in the region of Iraq and Syria. Photo: via author / CC When the “Syrian Spring” first ignited in early 2011, the Assad regime took two decisions that tipped the balance in favour of Salafi-jihadi groups. At first, the regime’s forces responded to the protest movement with extreme violence, imprisoning and torturing the key persons responsible for mobilising the masses. Then, by the end of 2011, as part of its amnesty programme, the Assad regime released from prison former Syrian Islamists and jihadists who had fought against the United States in Iraq. Just as a parallel, the operation “Break- ing the Walls” undertook by AQI in 2012- 2013 helped release Iraqi individuals with Syrian refugees are now spread among several countries. extreme views who further join the ranks of the fake Caliphate. While the Saidnaya SYP1,250 and informally at over SYP3,000. cases and 1,045 deaths, but real statistics detainees in Syria suppressed the original This equates to a 300 per cent inflation rate are expected to be much higher due to protests, their message, and their internal increase on consumer goods. Beyond the weak testing capacity. calls for peace and democracy, providing a war and the internal corruption of the As- Among poverty, hunger, unemployment, platform for militant extremism, the Abu sad regime, the 2020 Lebanese cash crisis shortage of basic needs, lack of medical Ghraib detainees in Iraq restored its ranks has also accelerated Syria’s economic col- infrastructure in the time of a deadly vi- with hundreds of previously detained, lapse. Unemployment was high before the rus, terrorist groups are still a threat to the skilled operatives, setting the stage for its war and only worsened throughout the fragile ceasefire. Since 2019, Daesh has re- resurgence and the transition into the Is- conflict. Additionally, the Syrian middle mained underground in Syria, preserving lamic State of Iraq and Syria. class, which comprised 60 per cent of Syr- itself in the mountains and caves of the Daesh was officially defeated in Syria in ia’s population in pre-war years, has now Badia. While many of its frontline foreign 2019, but related cells and underground been reduced to 10 to 15 per cent. fighters coming from North Africa and networks have survived ever since, waiting In the first quarter of 2021, the World Food post-Soviet republics have battleground for the right moment to make a comeback. Programme reported that, in Syria, 12.4M experience against both the regime and While the war itself is paused, but not over, people are food insecure and 1.3M people SDF, they have now gained valuable expe- reconstruction efforts are needed at both are facing severe food shortages. A total rience as insurgents as well. As a pattern infrastructure and society level. In other of 13.4M people, out of a total population repeating itself, the group has never been words, it is not just the roads and buildings of 17.5 million, is in need of humanitarian completely defeated, and found an oppor- of Syria that are in ruins as the result of 10 assistance. Based on several official reports tunity to further develop in the form of an years of clashes, but a whole nation is dis- of organisations involved in the region, if insurgency. There are, in fact, several indi- placed internally and externally, wrecked by no action is taken, another 1.8M Syrians cators that point to the increasing threat trauma, fear and loss. The Syrian refugees could become food insecure, reinforcing represented by the group: the capability to are now spread among several countries: the urgency of the WFP’s US$375.3M launch attacks of small, medium and big 6 million internally displaced, 1.5 million in funding appeal for the summer of 2021. scale on Syrian territory, the weakening of Lebanon, 3.6 million in Turkey, 700,000 in The vast majority of the 8M locals and refu- local/regional adversaries, and an increas- Jordan, 250,000 in Iraq and lower num- gees living in Damascus now rely on food ing influence over the local population. bers in Europe and other regions. Unlike boxes and lack basic needs such as electric- Daesh’s offensive activity in Syria has been any other conflict before, rebuilding Syria ity which is only available four hours daily. on the rise since 2019, and the number of represents, in fact, the rebuilding of our Moreover, half of the children growing up attacks reached the highest level in Janu- common future for peace, security and sta- in Syria are out of education according to ary 2021. The numbers and quality of the bility at the global level. a UNICEF statement issued on 24 January attacks prove that the group’s offensive 2021: “Inside Syria, there are over 2.4 mil- capability remains quite strong, forcing the Hunger, Enclaves and lion children out of school, nearly 40 per regime’s military units and their allies to stay Incendiary Terrorist Ashes cent are girls.” alert. While Daesh militants and supporters While the whole world is facing the pan- prove highly committed to their cause, the The total cost of the war to the Syrian demic, over 12M Syrians were in need of security forces in the area have proved un- economy is estimated at around €1Trillion. healthcare support at the beginning of able to protect the towns. Attacks are just According to the World Bank, the Syrian 2020; this number is estimated to be higher the reflection of Daesh’s increasing power economy has shrunk by more than 60 per in light of Covid-19. The pandemic situation that is also infiltrating once again among cent since 2010, and the Syrian pound has is particularly bad in a country lacking med- the local population. According to several crashed. Pre-war, the Syrian pound traded ical infrastructure and funding required to international reports, in rural areas of the near SYP50 to the US dollar. As of Janu- combat a pandemic. Official government Badia, the group often imposes mafia-like ary 2021, it was formally trading at over numbers currently stand at roughly 16,000 governance by extorting businesses, shep-

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 25 of the Arab Spring and never expecting a ten-year conflict to unleash the chaos that followed. I left Syria in the summer of that year but dedicated my academic career to the struggle against the terrorist groups that were born out of the “Syrian Spring”. As I write these lines weighing up the past ten years, I must emphasise that there is no possible way to reconstruct all

Photo: via author / Wiki CC that was lost in the Syrian War since 2011. The Syrian Spring began in 2011 with large demonstrations against the The personal, cultural, social, economic, regime of President Bashir Al Assad. historical, psychological, humanitarian, political, diplomatic, military and, never- herds, and other locals. In response to not According to the latest reports from the theless, egocentric dimensions of the crisis obeying the rules imposed by the group, Institute for the Study of War, Daesh faces are a burden that is felt globally today. In locals face death, abduction, or confisca- pressure along multiple fronts as it begins respect to all the things that may never be tion of their property. Unfortunately, nei- its annual Ramadan surge of attacks in Syr- recovered from the lost “Syrian Spring”, the ther the regime nor the SDF has done much ia. Al-Qaeda affiliate Hay’at Tahrir al Sham global community should put aside the old to prevent these abuses. Among the many (HTS) mounted counter-Daesh operations and new games of power politics and join tribal and community leaders who have targeting leadership cells in Idlib, likely in or- hands to rebuild a secure and stable Syria. been targeted for working with the SDF, der to both depress Daesh’s attack capabil- The international struggle that Syria needs an elder of the Ougaidat tribe was killed in ity and to distance HTS from other “hard- is, in fact, a struggle for ourselves and for January. And on 13 March, Daesh released line” Salafi-jihadi organisations. The British global peace. Otherwise, future current a list of inhabitants in the Deir al-Zour vil- Royal Air Force and the Russian military sim- and future conflicts that will emerge will lage of Jadid Ougaidat, threatening to kill ilarly conducted precision operations, pos- be even harder to manage. them and destroy their homes if they did sibly intended to target high-value Daesh To conclude, there are three elements cen- not comply with their requests. leadership figures in eastern Syria. The US- tral to rebuilding Syria. Firstly, there is no Bearing in mind the Salafi-jihadi interest partnered Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Syrian future that can include the current in prisons, detainees and camps that can meanwhile, secured camps and detention regime. As the Arab League is currently provide human infrastructure to serve their centres housing former Daesh affiliates in building momentum to reintegrate Syria goals, Syria still represents an obvious tar- order to prevent it from staging a prison (suspended in November 2011), such a get due to the high concentration of Daesh break during the coming months. Still, step should never be taken with Bashar supporters in both al-Hawl camp and Ha- Daesh is expected to continue to conduct al-Assad as president. This will only turn saka Central Prison. Based on information large-scale but disparate attacks on oil and a blind eye to the regime’s actions against obtained by international humanitarian gas facilities in the Central Syrian Desert the Syrian people. A regime that is not organisations, beheadings, point-blank and attacks targeting civil society leaders, able to defend its people should never be executions with silenced pistols, and other exploiting existing Arab-Kurdish divisions, left in place. Nevertheless, once a regime killings have become increasingly common in SDF-held northeast Syria. change has been achieved, the new po- in al-Hawl camp. In the first quarter of litical figures need to gain, from the very 2021, 41 murders have been confirmed, The Premises beginning, the trust and support of the while 33 incidents were registered in 2020. for Coming Years Syrian nation to start the long and rocky Nevertheless, connections to the outside road towards security and stability. Sec- are growing as well, facilitating camp resi- In the first months of 2011, I was a resident ondly, international actors need to come dents’ access to weapons and cell phones. of Damascus, following the developments together to eradicate all terrorist groups on the ground, disregard their affiliations and affinities. The underground persis- tence of those groups should also be tack- led. The camps and prisons are in urgent need of reorganisation, and their security . Photo: MoD Russia infrastructure has to be rebuilt in order to prevent any infiltrations or attacks. Third- ly, as the first two goals are achieved, a new and stronger Syria can flourish from within, through its own people. The international community needs to ensure that the Syrian people who are now displaced around many nations will be able to return to a safe home. None of these three elements is achievable unless all the actors involved are determined to support the interests of the Syrian people. To continue gambling with Syria’s future would only The total cost of the war to the Syrian economy is estimated at around mean threatening the peace, security and €1 trillion. stability of our modern world. L

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Anzeige_FluchtMeer_2021_A4_E.indd 1 20.05.21 12:02 Marketing Report: DST Defence Service Tracks GmbH

Czech IFVs on Track Excellence is a Habit – Continuous Improvement is a Must

DST Defence Service Tracks GmbH is a world – ASCOD & LYNX – relying and performing incl. the transfer of technology, shop built-up leader in the development and manufacture outstandingly on DST’s DLT 464-tracks. and on the job training of local workforce. of steel track systems and running gear com- The DLT 464-track is suitable for vehicles In the Czech Republic, a source for spare ponents for tanks and tracked armoured weights from 38 – 50 metric tonnes and is parts for PUMA and LEOPARD 2 is already vehicles. by proven records undoubtedly the number subject to qualification and Ray Service in More than 100 different track solutions are one track in its class, featuring high dura- Staré Město will be qualified for final as- in use in more than 50 armed forces world- bility, low life cycle costs, maintenance-free sembly of the tracks. wide. The tracked vehicles in service with the operation and maximum safety. DST is focused on looking for potential sup- German Army run on DST tracks as well as DST’s track has been rigorously field-test- pliers of track parts for localisation concepts in many NATO countries. ed and proven on the PUMA and MARDER in Hungary and the Slovak Republic, too. Photo: Rheinmetall Photo: GDELS

DST has a long tradition in cooperating with vehicles, with superior performance in the Together with Ray Service, DST is consider- most international armoured vehicle manu- German Army’s preparation for VJTF par- ing the option of building a track production facturers and thus takes advantage of trust- ticipation. Further life tests under severe hub in Eastern Europe, with the objective ful and worldwide reliable partnerships. conditions have been successfully com- to combine parts from the Czech Republic, In recent times the IFV market has been pleted on AJAX/ASCOD vehicles. Slovakia, Hungary and Germany for integra- subject to a step change - the requirements tion with one track. are no longer just for vehicles to serve as Cooperation and All potential customers like Hungary will ad- armoured personnel carriers, rather capa- Local Production ditionally take advantage of local production bilities and features comparable to those of facilities, like for spare parts for or assembly main battle tanks are in demand. DST’s strength is to collaborate with ve- of the other DST tracks for the LEOPARD 2 This development has resulted in a signifi- hicle manufacturers and provide a track MBT or the PzH2000 SP howitzer, which are cant increase in the weight of the vehicle solution to meet the end users’ require- in use in the country. platform, thus taking state-of-the-art ments. Looking ahead, DST has already signed co- mechanised combat vehicles into the Apart from the product portfolio, DST‘s production agreements in other countries 40-50 metric tonnes range. global thinking and network provides lo- such as the United States and Australia to In response to the new challenge, DST has cal concepts in order to comply with the be well prepared for a timely start of a local developed a track design that is superior to claims for local production of potential production. anything else on the market. end customers. Of course, as part of the local production DST‘s high-grade products are well-estab- programme, DST also provides a skilled DLT-464 – the Track of Choice lished around the globe. Thus, local indus- point of contacts on the ground during the trialisation and service on the spot have entire life cycle of the product. With a specific focus on the current Czech formed an integral part of DST’s business DST aims to offer a high quality and reliable tender for a future IFV, DST Defence Service for decades. product with a significant in-country work- Tracks GmbH tracks have been integrated DST qualifies and audits the production share as well as its whole life cycle support with two competing vehicles since the very plants in country, ensuring the delivery of by on-site personnel with due consideration beginning of the programme trials. unsurpassed quality no matter where it of the local business culture. Three out of four contenders (LYNX, has been produced. ASCOD and PUMA) that participated in the DST’s expertise is built on great experience, first trials in 2018 went into the race on a comprising ongoing and successfully accom- DST track. plished vehicle programmes worldwide. DST The final trials in the Czech Republic are cur- has already built up international production rently ongoing with two out of three vehicles plants e.g. in Spain, Greece, Canada and India, DST Defence Service Tracks GmbH 28 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 Tel.: +49 2191 976-0 [email protected]

ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY  Czech IFV Procurement Programme

Martin Smisek

The acquisition of new infantry fighting vehicles for the Army of the Czech Republic reached a key milestone in April 2021 when three shortlisted contenders delivered their technology demonstrators for preliminary testing.

his stage of the selection procedure Army (AČR),were finally handed over to ústav (Military Technical Institute), Vojen- Twas set to take place as early as No- Czech representatives at Vyškov on 27 ský výzkumný ústav (Military Research In- vember 2020, but due to the unfavour- April 2021. These are CV90 Mk IV offered stitute), and VOP CZ. The main purpose able situation with the pandemic and by BAE Systems Hägglunds AB from Swe- of the tests is to verify the parameters of safety measures against COVID-19 in the den, LYNX KF41 manufactured by Ger- the respective vehicles, and not to ex- Czech Republic, it could not take place as many’s Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH clude any of the potential candidates. originally planned. Thus, the technology and ASCOD 42 submitted by General The aim of the evaluation is to check the demonstrators of three manufacturers Dynamics European Land Systems-Santa selected technical and tactical param- bidding for the supply of tracked infan- Bárbara Sistemas SA from Spain. eters required by the AČR through 30 try fighting vehicles (IFV) for the Czech different types of testing. As part of this, Preliminary Evaluation both the values declared by the manu- Author facturer in the documentation and the Following the handover, the vehicles have practical properties of the vehicles, such Martin Smisek is a Czech freelance been subjected to rigorous testing per- as mobility, obstacle crossing and firing journalist specialising in Czech arma- formed by more than 200 people includ- capabilities of their weapon systems, will ment programmes and Czech and ing suppliers' representatives and officials be verified. The results will be then used Slovak military history since WW II. from the MoD, AČR, as well as state- in the process of assessment and evalua- owned enterprises Vojenský technický tion of individual bids.

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EDS_176x126_ASCOD_1P_AF1.indd 1 11/5/21 16:03 being two infantry teams with four soldiers each). The manned turret is equipped with a 30 mm automatic cannon for programmable ammunition, a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun, and an anti-tank guided missile system. The calibre of 30 mm for the main gun was primarily chosen due to the uni- fication of ammunition with the PANDUR II CZ wheeled infantry fighting vehicles

Photos: Czech MoD operated by the 4th Rapid Deployment LYNX tracked vehicles are suitable for all types of operations – from sta- Brigade. However, the turret must be bilisation missions to high-intensity combat. They are highly protected, capable of receiving a larger calibre can- adaptable to different operational scenarios, extremely agile, and have non in the future, with relatively minimal considerable payload reserves. changes. Although the minimum elevation range of the main gun is specified The actual evaluation has simultaneously Among the Czech Army's primary re- from -10° to +45°, the design must al- taken place at Březina and Libavá military quirements for the new IFV are minimal low the upper limit of the elevation to be training ranges, the garrison of the 72nd ballistic protection Level 5 and minimal increased to +60° without the need to Mechanised Battalion at Přáslavice, Přerov mine protection Level 4a/4b according to change the entire turret. airport, and facilities of Vojenský technický STANAG 4569, modular add-on armour, The sight system for the gunner and com- ústav in Vyškov and Slavičín, Vojenský výz- capability for future installation of soft- mander has to be able to identify a main kumný ústav in Brno and VOP CZ in Šenov kill and hard-kill active protection system, battle tank at a range of at least 4,000 near Nový Jičín. The vehicles have each tak- radio-controlled improvised explosive metres during the day and 3,500 metres en turns at the individual facilities to ensure device jammer, and automated collective at night. The Czech Army demands the independent verification of the evaluated CBRN protection system. The vehicle has vehicle's minimum speed on the road to parameters. After almost six weeks, the a crew of three with a troop seating ca- be at least 65 kph, while the minimum tests will end on 6 June 2021 after which pacity of eight persons (standard infantry off-road speed should not be lower than the evaluation of the results will take place squad of six soldiers with two specialists 40 kph. Moreover, the specific power over a two-week period. on a needs basis, with the other option output must be higher than 18 kW/t. The ESD Advert - Pearson Engineering - Scalable Battlefield Mobility.pdf 1 12/05/21 10:14:14

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HELPING ARMED FORCES TO DEFEND, MOVE AND FIGHT For more than three decades, Pearson Engineering has provided Armed Forces with the mobility and counter-mobility equipment they need to succeed in their missions around the world. From minefield breaching and Counter-IED protection to earth moving and assault gap crossing, our interchangeable attachments for armoured vehicles enhance flexibility and adaptability to deliver a battlefield advantage. pearson-eng.com range of the vehicle has to be at least 500 km. The communication and information subsystems should comprise a secured VHF/UHF satellite radiostation for voice and data transmission, open architecture diagnostics, a system for combat identification friend or foe, and the Czech BVIS (Bojový vozidlový informační systém) battle management system. The IFV should have a 30-year service life The CV90 Mk IV offered by BAE Systems Hägglunds AB from Sweden is with at least 10,000 km until to the need a fifth generation combat-proven Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) which for a general overhaul. It must also be air- combines improved battlefield speeds and handling with an upgraded transportable in a Boeing C-17 GLOBE- electronic architecture to support future growth capabilities. MASTER III, Ilyushin II 76MF and Antonov An 124 RUSLAN. formed the Ministry of Defence in a letter The repercussions were severe for the IFV of 14 October 2019 that it had withdrawn acquisition programme as well. The prelimi- Delays its PUMA from the tender procedure due nary testing, without which further steps to the need for a substantial and costly in the tender were not possible, had to be In December 2018, it was expected that conversion. At the same time, Czech min- postponed from autumn 2020 to spring the contract could be awarded in August isterial officials had to rework the original 2021. The delay was further aggravated by 2019 with the actual deliveries under- time plan. The revised schedule now ex- the difficulties of the Czech state budget. way roughly between 2020 and 2025. pects the signing of the contract by the These negative developments led to the However, the schedule proved to be end of 2020 with the prospect of initial prolongation of planned deliveries of overly optimistic. In the meantime, the deliveries in 2022. 210 vehicles by two years. Thus, accord- requirements of the Czech Army on the However, in 2020, a significant delay was ing to the latest timetable, the first new new IFV, mainly the manned turret and caused by the COVID-19 COVID 19 pan- IFVs should be delivered in 2023. Their seating capacity for eight soldiers, were demic. This delay brought not only a large shipments are then set to continue until insurmountable for the consortium PSM number of needless deaths, but also mas- 2027. At the same time, the financial plan Projekt System & Management which in- sive financial losses to the state treasury. has also had to be revised. Currently, it

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FUTUREPOWER LYNX KF41 – EXPERIENCE THE FUTURE OF MECHANIZED WARFARE The Lynx KF41 is more than just a new, highly advanced vehicle: it is the ultimate future-proof platform, blending unsurpassed protection with massive firepower and unbeatable mobility in a uniquely modular concept. Rheinmetall is offering the Lynx infantry fighting vehicle to the Czech Republic as a brand-new solution and Czech-made. The Rheinmetall Group as a technology group for mobility and security is already an established partner to the Czech Republic for decades and is represented by the Rheinmetall Automotive sector at sites in Trmice and Chabařovice.

A0364e0521_LYNX FUTUREPOWER.indd 1 10.05.21 18:44  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY

ments in the Ministry of Defence budget Into the Inventory in respective years. Immediately after the approval of these The new IFVs are intended for the complete changes by the Czech Government on 10 rearming of the 7th Mechanised Brigade and May 2021, the Ministry of Defence sent its subordinated units: the 71st, 72nd and 74th a request for the submission of a defini- Mechanized Battalions, as well as a mecha- tive bid to the respective contenders. If nised company of the 73rd Tank Battalion. everything goes without complications, Each mechanised battalion will be equipped Prague expects to sign the contract at the with 56 vehicles in seven variants (PBVP in- turn of the third and fourth quarters of fantry fighting vehicle, PBV-V command and this year. However, this step will probably control vehicle, PBV-PZ reconnaissance vehi- be taken by the new Government, which cle, POV-V recovery vehicle, POV-Ž combat will take office after the elections in Oc- engineer vehicle, POV-DP artillery observer tober 2021. Thus, this development could vehicle, and POV-Zdr ambulance vehicle). cause further delays.An integral part of The first unit slated for conversion on the new the tender is also a licence for the de- IFV is the 74th Mechanised Battalion which velopment, production, modernisation, was originally established in October 2008 as With different payload capacities modification, and authorised service of a light motorised infantry formation equipped and growth potential and its newly acquired IFVs in the Czech Repub- with IVECO LMVs. The unit was reorganised alternative power pack and lic. The involvement of Czech industry in into its current structure on 1 January 2020. running gear, The ASCOD 42 the contract should reach at least 40 % However, due to the unavailability of new manufactured by GDELS offers of the acquisition price. A crucial role is technology, 15 ancient BVP-2 infantry fight- a wide range of configurations played by the state-owned company VOP ing vehicles had to be pulled from long-term which cover all the major roles CZ which serves as the project integra- storage at the military warehouse in Rančířov of an armoured fighting vehicle. tor for Czech industry, as main subcon- and refurbished into working order. This pro- tractor, and future service authority for cess started in July 2020 and lasted roughly extends the financing of the acquisition the vehicles of the AČR. Moreover, the six months. This interim solution should make programme to seven years, specifically to winning bidder is obliged to provide the it possible to start the retraining of the 74th the span from 2022 to 2028. The dis- maximum share of development, produc- Mechanised Battalion in the mechanised in- tribution of the payments over a longer tion, transfer of technology, know-how, fantry combat role which will then continue period will reduce the burden of install- and intellectual property to VOP CZ. on the newly acquired IFVs. L DTR

D 46892

D 46892 Topics include: Defence Technology Review Wehrtechnischer Report 5/20132/2020 • The Lynx KF41 as an Overall System

System The Lynx KF41 as an Overall System

One Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) design now has the ability to achieve all of the requirements for a modern IFV: the new Rheinmetall Lynx KF41. • Future Battlefield Superiority ollowing on from the development Fof the KF31 and the Lynx family of tracked combat vehicles, the concept This is particularly so in a world where for the Lynx KF41 has its genesis in the populations are becoming increasingly operational requirements that modern urbanised and in a planning environ • Combined arms fighting systems to armies are likely to face in the years ment where operations in complex ter- conduct operations across the spec- ahead. rain are routine. - trum of conflict, The Lynx Family This will require the AIFV to conduct • High mobility to enable tactical flex- a diverse range of tasks – from patrols ibility in contact, • Adaptable vehicle systems that can be upgraded or modified in theatre and • Main Armament for the • Survivability that forces the ene my to operate above the detection threshold. - This has resulted in a vehicle with: • High levels of inherent capability, • Modularity to tailor protection and achieve rapid upgrades, Lynx KF 41 IFV • Open electrical, electronic, software and mechanical architectures and • Growth in payload and electrical power. It is in this cauldron of non-negotiable operational requirements and mission Lynx KF41 in IFV configuration sets that the Lynx KF41 design param eters were forged. The Lynx KF41 is a With armoured manoeuvres at continuation of Germany’s extensive - the core of an army’s ability to fight, legacy in cutting-edge IFV design, a survive and win on the battlefields of in hostile and defended urban neigh- today and tomorrow and with the In bourhoods, to mounted combat opera- fantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) often the tions in open terrain to reconnaissance High Level Requirements • Modularity and Standardisation most plentiful and versatile of combat- and peace support missions. and Major Enablers vehicles within a manoeuvre force, it is • Survivability: Low visual, ther- critical that the modern IFV possess Adaptability and flexibility mal, and acoustic signature. es the necessary protection, mobility Modular, adaptable survivabil- and firepower for today’s threats rather- Coupled with a disaggregated bat- ity system than those of the past. tlespace with state and non-state par- • Mobility: High power-to-weight As hand-held anti-armour weapons ticipants and complex human terrain ratio for maximum agility for Future Growth continue to be proliferated and asym where the front line is poorly defined, • Lethality: Scalable effects for metric threats to ground forces show it becomes clear that if an IFV is to full spectrum of operations - no signs of abating, highly capable IFVs remain deployable and operationally • Modularity: Scalable effects for will be the key to success across the relevant in the future it must have the full spectrum of operations spectrum of operational contingencies. ability to be adapted as required. This • Knowledge: Situational aware requires an abundanceLethality of capacity and ness & battlefield information in flexibility. seamless electronic architecture- The Lynx KF41 has been designed to • Suitability: Low noise & vibra- meet the following operational needs tion, air-condition, optimised from inception: human-machine interface • Combined arms capabilities at the • Sustainability: Common base Main Armament for the Lynx KF41platoon level so that commanders platform, with full family of ve 14 can adapt while in contact, hicles and modular architecture • Force Protection – Infantry Fighting Vehicle with inherent growth -

The automatic cannon MK30-2/ABM is the latest addition to Rheinmetall's proven family of 30 mm automatic cannons and already the new standard for 30 mm guns. The weapon fires the NATO calibre the Situational Awareness System 30 mm x 173 and can use a complete ammunition portfolio. heinmetall was the first manufac- Rturer of weapon and ammunition systems to introduce programmability in the 30 mm calibre, and remains the undisputed market leader in Airburst - Munition (ABM) technology. The op timum combination of high firing rate and modern ammunition technology makes the MK30-2/ABM an uncompromising weapon system that has been selected not only for the Lynx KF41 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) but also as the primary armament of the German Army’s Puma IFV and the Australian Army’s Boxer 8x8 Combat - Reconnaissance Vehicle (CRV). To gether with the high quality requirements of customers, this weapon sets Lynx KF41 live firing new standards in terms of durability, reliability, technical maturity and pre- weapon system to combat the entire The 3.78 metre long weapon weighs Defence Technology Review cision. Up to a distance of 3,000 me- range of current combat threats. 198.6 kg and has an intrinsic rate of 600 tres, the MK30-2/ABM delivers high For firing airburst munition, the rounds per minute. In order to achieve the combat effectiveness not only against weapon usually has a programming unit ultimate precision at the target, the rate is - land targets. at the muzzle. The ABM projectile fea controlled at 200 rounds per minute. The tures a programmable fuse. As it passes guaranteed accuracy of the weapon is through the muzzle assembly, the indi- 0.6 mrad in single rounds, typical values State-of-the-art technology, vidual muzzle velocity V0 of each indi- are 0.2 mrad±1σ. highest quality and vidual projectile is measured. Then, de- The weapon has been tested and uncompromising testing pending on the selected target distance qualified for use in climate zones A2, and the determined muzzle velocity, the B1 and C2. The MK30-2/ABM is the The gun is an open bolt design weap- inductive programming of the fragmen- most extensively tested medium calibre on, i.e. the ammunition is only fed into tation time is carried out. This complex weapon on the market. More than eight 96 pages the chamber immediately before firing. procedure makes the Rheinmetall ABM weapons have been successfully tested Therefore, cook-off is impossible dur- system far superior to other systems, over six years under almost all climatic ing normal operation. A further tech- as the actual speed of each individual conditions. More than 130,000 rounds nical feature is the floating gun tube round is measured. Only in this way the were fired. The determination of fatigue mounting, which reduces the recoil - point of disintegration before the target life according to ITOP 3-2-829 was suc forces. The recoil force is only 18 kN can precisely be determined. cessfully completed. with a maximum recoil distance of The weapon is also available with a 45 mm. conventional muzzle brake. Survivability • Modularity • Lethality • Performance Switching between two types of ammunition History and outlook Due to the double belt feed it is possible The experience gained from the use of to change between two types of am- the MK30-1/MK30-2 automatic can- munition very quickly. This enables the €14.80 (incl. VAT, plus shipping) 33

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32 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 THE BASE FOR YOUR FLEET.

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ESD Ad Final 06 Dienstag, 18. Mai 2021 15:14:45  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY Japan’s Complicated Machine Gun Procurement Sumitomo Heavy Industries withdraws from ongoing machine gun tender.

Shinichi Kiyotani

Sumitomo Heavy Industries (SHI) had produced a prototype to compete in the tender for the selection of the next 5.56 mm machine gun for the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF), but withdrew from the competition in the middle of the procedure.

n 1993, the GSDF selected FN's 5.56 mm The GSDF has withdrawn the 7.62mm IMININI (Mk1) to replace the Type 62 7.62 machine gun from service for dismounted mm machine gun, with Sumitomo Heavy infantry. GSDF was previously using the Industries receiving the licence for its pro- Type 74 7.62mm machine gun, though duction. The new 5.56 mm machine gun is it was used in coaxial machine guns in- earmarked as its replacement. cluding on GSDF tanks, armoured fight- A spokesman of the Ministry of Defence ing vehicles and aircraft door guns for (MoD) explained that "SHI withdrew its of- the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force fer to produce the weapon even if select- (MSDF) helicopters. The GDSF spokesman ed," and so the evaluation of SHI’s product explained that the reason for withdrawing will not proceed. In response to a question the 7.62mm machine gun from service is put by ESD, the SHI spokesman said, "We that “7.62mm machine guns are not re- have advised the MoD that we are with- quired for the Japanese environment, as drawing from the competition for the next the engagement range is short”. generation 5.56mm machine guns, and The MoD originally budgeted for these ma- that we will be ceasing all future produc- chine gun prototypes for trials in FY 2019 tion of machine guns. However, this does and initiated testing in FY2020. The MoD not mean we will be withdrawing from spokesman explained that, "There was a defence-related business entirely." request from SHI to withdraw from the The original candidates in the tender pro- production if it was selected," and there- cedure included FN's MINIMI Mk3, whose fore the trial was not continued. For this To date, the 5.56mm MINIMI Mk1 contracted agency is Sumisho Aero-Sys- reason, the competition will continue with has been Japan’s machine gun of tems, Heckler & Koch’s H&K's MG4, whose the remaining two candidates, the MINIMI choice. agency is JALUX, and the 5.56mm machine Mk3 and MG4. The new machine gun is gun originally developed by SHI. expected to be imported and not produced in procurement procedures including the under licence locally. option of switching to imports. In 2016, SHI has been producing machine guns such the MSDF considered switching to foreign- as its own Type 74 and undertook licenced made machine guns due to the high cost production of the 12.7mm M2 machine of SHI’s MINIMI. gun and the 5.56mm MINIMI Mk1. The GSDF is currently considering succes- Photos: via author In 2014, it was found that SHI had falsified sors for the M2 and Type 74, and there data including for the performance and is a strong possibility that these will be durability of these machine guns and de- switched to foreign-made products. livered them without meeting the required The Japan Steel Works, which produces au- standards such as the rate of fire and tar- tomatic cannons and guns including tank get accuracy set by the MoD over a period guns, howitzers for the GSDF, and naval of 40 years. As a result, the company was guns for the MSDF, is also interested in the suspended from nominations for a period machine gun business, a senior company of five months and fined JPY2.5M. manager stated. The company recently de- The unit price of domestically-produced veloped a powered 20 mm cannon for its Among others, Japan’s GSDF has machine guns is about five times that of own Remote Weapon Station (RWS) and been evaluating FN's MINIMI Mk3 foreign-made machine guns. The Ministry proposed this system to the MSDF, but it machine gun. of Finance often demands an improvement was not accepted. L

34 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ELCAN SPECTER® WEAPON SIGHTS See the diff erence

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21ELC024_Specter_print_A4.indd 1 5/10/21 4:52 PM  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY Capability Priorities for Dismounted Combat

Manuela Tudosia

In the future operating environment, armed forces will have to be even more rapidly deployable, flexible and scaleable. They should be able to operate independently and be self-supporting in specific locations, but also capable of conducting large-scale operations.

he recent UK Defence Command Paper Ttitled “Defence in a Competitive Age” depicts the future operating environment as “not limited by lines on maps or by ge- ography… confronted by complex and integrated challenges below, and potentially above, the threshold of armed conflict… confronted by state and non-state actors Photo: NY Army National Guard who will employ brinkmanship, malign activity below the threshold of armed conflict, terrorism, proxies, coercion and the deliberate use of economic tools.” The Paper highlights an increased role of expeditionary forces and announces the creation of a new Ranger Regiment that “will be the vanguard of this expeditionary posture”. Over £120M will be invested in equipping this force in the next four years. Investments will also be made in vehicles relevant for dismounted forces, such as the BOXER. US soldiers conduct dismounted training in Fort Drum, NY. The publication of Defence White Papers is also expected in other NATO member large-scale operations. “Units should be most recent is the Dutch VOSS (Ver- countries, including Belgium and the able to operate self-reliantly at lower level beterd Operationeel Soldaat Systeem or Netherlands, but the future operating and to combine with other units (from Improved Operational Soldier System). environment is likely to be quite similar other branches of the armed forces) and However, in the current context, many for all NATO and EU countries. national and international partners. They existing challenges related to dismounted Capability priorities for dismounted com- should be able to operate independently combat become salient and new ones bat need to be understood in this con- and be multi-functionally deployable. appear, for instance threats in the cyber text. In the future operating environment, They need to be deployable in a NATO, domain or in the electromagnetic spec- armed forces will have to be even more EU or UN context as well as in ad hoc trum. Progressively, these challenges are rapidly deployable, flexible and scalable. coalitions or alone.” (Dutch Defence Vi- translated into capability priorities that They should be able to operate indepen- sion 2035). will probably lead to incremental but im- dently and be self-supporting in specific Dismounted forces are no exception portant improvements of existing soldier locations, but also capable of conducting when it comes to requirements imposed systems. It can be assumed that countries by the future operating environment. whose systems are older (developed dur- Author They will have to be even more spread ing the first decade of the millennium) out and autonomous. At the same time, will have to invest more to adapt to the Manuela Tudosia is government af- they will have to be better connected and new operational environment and to in- fairs expert in defence, and contribu- better able to regroup for larger scale tegrate new technologies. tor to the NATO Industrial Advisory combat. They will also have to operate As an overarching aspect, more coordina- Group and NIAG Industry Interface across domains, including the cyber do- tion may be needed in the coming years Group. She is also founder of the main, in a battlefield that will be distrib- to improve interoperability as well as Pole CM [Civil-Military Innovation uted and joint. multi-national cooperation when econo- Network], initiative that provides stra- At the national level, many NATO nations mies of scale and operational advantages tegic advice to Small- and Medium- and NATO partner countries have mod- can be better achieved. To date, soldier Sized Enterprises in defence. ernised their dismounted soldier systems systems are mostly national though they during the last two decades. One of the present many similarities.

36 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 In the EU, the Coordinated Annual Review on Defence (CARD) regularly identifies potential cooperation areas that would lead to gradual synchronisation of national defence planning cycles FULLY and capability development practices. The 2020 CARD Report recommends 55 collaborative opportunities in capability development, among which six are focus areas. Several of these are directly or indirectly relevant for dismounted combat. Moreo- INTEGRATED ver, many of them are expected to be reflected in the 2020 or next year’s European Defence Fund (EDF) calls. One of the six focus areas is to “modernise Soldier Systems as the core of individual force protection and operational effectiveness across all types of operations within the next decade, based on a commonly shared architecture for all related subsystems using cutting edge technology.” Related R&T activities highlighted in the CARD Report are artificial intelligence (AI), cyber defence, new sensor technologies, emerging materials and energy efficient propulsion systems, as well as unmanned systems and robotics. All can be relevant to dismounted combat capabilities. Behind these high-visibility initiatives lie several transversal priorities that need to be constantly considered in any dismounted combat capability project. The ability to respond to these needs is most likely a key differentiator in any competition open to industry to modernise current systems or to develop new ones.

Protection, Lethality and Situational Awareness These three components must be continuously improved, all the more when dismounted tactical units have to be self-reliant and autonomous for longer. The overarching - and well-known - challenge remains the size, weight and power (SWaP) ratio, let alone the cost. Too much weight can reduce soldier effec- C4I tiveness, and the complex mix of protection, lethality and situ- SOFTWARE ational awareness technologies can cause cognitive burden, leading to progressive degradation of an operator’s decision- making abilities. Even before addressing specific technological improvements, capability developers and procurement officers must find the right mix of technologies to assure mission effectiveness and an adequate level of protection. The choice of this mix, including capability integration, can depend on policies, procedures and dismounted combat scenarios envis- aged as well as on technological solutions available. Capability developers are moving away from constantly adding new items to the dismounted soldier’s equipment to a concept of “soldier as a system”. At the same time, system integration is increasingly carried out by the customer while the industry provides the components. Decision-support tools that present and analyse the complex set of variables to be considered when equipping the soldier would be an understandable need.

Reducing the Load

Reducing the load is unfortunately an almost “eternal” priority. Weight can result from the accumulation of equipment items (the so-called “Christmas Tree” effect) but also from their size or from the materials used. www.systematic.com/sitaware

Better Protection and Lighter Equipment Less cumbersome equipment, yet performant enough to protect against CBRN, ballistic threats, blast and other shocks will probably remain a constant priority. In addition, adaptation of

Add-109x300mm-2pages-01.indd 1 30/09/2020 12.07  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY

exposure is a lasting capability development priority. As smaller unmanned systems become available, this will also have

Photo: via author positive consequences on the load. Soldier augmentation technologies, notably exoskeletons, could also help in the management of load and enhancement of protection. Many improvements must still be made in this area to make them less cumbersome and, when applicable, to find reliable solutions to power them. Armed forces are constantly experiment- ing and testing exoskeletons, which shows a clear interest.

Lighter Batteries and Better Energy Storage Sustaining power throughout the mission is essential. In dismounted combat, the need for energy is likely to be exacerbat- ed by the increased use of electronics, like A dismounted mission module of a BOXER IFV situational awareness sensors, C4I gear and computing units. This need can be met by developing lighter batteries with extended runtimes and/or by reducing

Photo: Thales the size and power consumption of the soldier-worn technologies. Progressive miniaturisation of soldier- worn items, especially of sensors, is an underlying and constant priority. My recent article on “Miniaturisation – It is not only about technology” in ESD 5/2021 provides an overview of applications where miniaturisation is likely to be prioritised. Battery runtime is a key variable influencing the weight that must be carried by soldiers before resupply is possible. This affects mission planning and execution parameters. Several portable power solutions have been and continue to be ex- Soldier systems developed by Thales promise to deliver increased plored to increase energy generation and military effectiveness through improvement in tempo, lethality, storage, from advanced but traditional survivability, sustainability and coordination of operations. battery technologies to alternative sources like fuel cells, silicon-anode technologies, equipment to various climatic conditions to Accelerated by the COVID-19 crisis, there kinetic energy or even radioisotope pow- increase thermic comfort without compro- is currently a focus on developing tech- ered batteries. Today, fuel cells for use in mising protection or the ability to move are nology that reduces the need for bur- tactical applications appear to have gained also fields of continuous improvement. densome protective equipment while renewed interest and may be considered The application of novel materials to pro- optimising individual CBRN protection. in future capability development projects. tective equipment, is an area with high An example is the DARPA Personalized Given the past focus of the EU Commis- dual-use potential that could be further Protective Biosystem (PPB) program that sion and the European Defence Agency explored by industry under the European seeks to improve stability and provide on energy-related topics, it is highly prob- Defence Fund or future opportunities flexibility for field-forward individuals able that energy production in operational opened by the recent “EU Commission through the application of lightweight environments – including the integration Action Plan on synergies between civil, materials and adaptable, tissue-protec- of fuel cells – will be among the future EDF defence and space industries”. To illus- tive countermeasures. calls and projects. trate the importance of novel materials, at The combination of sensing technolo- Centralised sources to supply power to the beginning of the year, the UK Defence gies, AI and unmanned systems can en- individual electronic devices have been and Security Accelerator (DASA) launched hance human protection by detecting increasingly considered in recent years. a competition that focuses on novel ma- threat and facilitating land manoeuvre. The centralised systems can be interest- terials, designs and deployment technolo- For example, the IED threat is likely to ing for reducing overall power burden gies for in-field fortifications that are easily continue in the years to come, and its provided that power connectivity is less stored, transported and rapidly deployed. detection and avoidance with less human dependent on too many cables and con-

38 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 nectors. This too is an area of continuing development in terms of standards and technology solutions. A mixed power system that combines a central source to power individual devices with the latter’s own power sources is probably a necessary compromise as science progresses towards more reliable solutions.

Logistics and Sustainment Loads Operating independently, being dispersed and self-supporting can have a di-

rect impact on sustainment loads. More Photo: Rohde & Schwarz food, more ammunition and other sus- SOVERON HR software defined handheld radio by Rohde & Schwarz tainment items need to be carried unless provides robust and resilient communications for dismounted soldiers. the re-supply system is reliable enough. This becomes even more challenging success. The most basic survivability items transport of supplies and of people (for ex- when dismounted operations are taking are water and food, both heavy but es- ample, MEDEVAC) between the strategic place in extreme environments, either cli- sential. Reducing the weight of water is level to the point of need. matic or location - and risk - related. a very elusive prospect but reducing the Besides development or modernisation Two complementary options are sought to food weight by removing water and ap- of “traditional” assets like helicopters improve this: achieving more independence plying other techniques to increase nutri- and vehicles, developments in unmanned by reducing weight and increasing power tional density is another field where there is systems, autonomy or guidance make it and survivability for longer, and/or improv- scope for continuing innovation. In the EU, possible today to significantly improve lo- ing logistic reliability and responsiveness. it would most likely be suitable for dual-use gistics in dismounted combat scenarios. Powering the equipment would mean related projects. The ability to integrate such emerging nothing without the soldier. The human The United States and other nations are technologies in both future, but also in factor, both physiological and cognitive, prioritising increasing logistic flexibility and legacy armoured platforms, is key from though less spoken of, is key for mission responsiveness, essential for the reliable this point of view.

Marketing Report: Raytheon ELCAN

Evolving Functionality of Machine Guns for Dismounted Combat

Many NATO forces are looking to upgrade starting to think differently about the most increases reliability and mission effective- their machine guns because they are main- lethal weapon in the squad - machine guns - ness. This keeps soldiers safer. The variable stays of the infantry squad and main sources and demanding precision engagement. magnification and durability of the Specter of firepower. “The machine gun technology For assault rifles, the ELCAN Specter DR DR sight gives the soldier an overmatch ad- used today is essentially the same as they 1-4x dual role sight has pushed qualification vantage and significantly increases lethality used in WWII,” according to Dan Pettry, ranges out from 300 m to 600 m for infantry in dismounted combat. a former U.S. Army Ranger and now Pro- soldiers in the ADF (Australian Defence Forc- “The evolving battlefield, especially for the duct Manager for ELCAN Specter sights. es). Now, militaries like the Danish Defence dismounted soldier is changing how militar- “Machine guns have fallen behind assault Armed Forces are putting dual role sights on ies think about machine guns,” said Pettry. rifles in their evolution on the battlefield.” both rifles and machine guns. “Mounting a dual role sight enables the Evolving technologies will incorporate arti- Putting more capability onto the machine machine gun to be a dual role weapon. This ficial intelligence, networked communica- gun without overburdening the soldier, solution is ready today.” tions and powered rails into weapon systems but these are longer-term solutions. Near-term, modern militaries need to push existing systems to meet modernization priorities. Machine guns have traditionally been considered area weapons, used for suppression, Photo: Raytheon ELCAN unlike rifles which are considered point or precision weapons. Modern militaries are  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY

be fielded at the end of this year. Visual augmentation remains however, an area with significant development potential – Photo: USAASC and its related challenges, like avoiding latency in the visual display and real-time sensor fusion and data analysis. An interesting trend is the integration of physiological, biochemical and environmental monitoring sensors to inform about the state of the soldier and his/her surroundings. These can provide relevant medical-related situational awareness, as well as alerts on possible CBRN-related threats. In turn, it could allow better rota- tion of troops or prevent larger scale CBRN hazards. Probably the trickiest issue is building an appropriate architecture that can transmit, aggregate and analyse the data at NETT WARRIOR (NW) is a dismounted situational awareness system the level of higher echelons of command, used during combat operations, allowing for faster and more accurate where the collected information can allow decision-making in the tactical fight. With advanced navigation and strategic decisions to be made. information-sharing capabilities, leaders are able to avoid fratricide and Last but not least, the information col- are more effective and lethal in the execution of their combat missions. lected by the myriad of sensors would be useless without communications and Increasing Lethality funding. The development of new weap- good tactical command and control. and Situational Awareness ons tends to focus on a modular design A GPS-denied environment and other that can integrate external data sources. forms of degraded communication or With developments in optics, targeting, For example, availability of new technolo- data transmission represent a high risk sensing or augmentation technologies, gies like multispectral sensors and smart for dismounted operations. Navigation the possibilities to increase lethality and processing opens the possibility to adjust and movement capacity can also be rapid target acquisition are vast. Reducing weapon sight reticles, thereby enabling affected in such circumstances. Invest- weight and size, fusing the data and avoid- improved accuracy. ments to find alternative options to GPS ing information overload remain a constant Visual augmentation systems are cur- and to counter the effects of degraded endeavour though. rently being explored in order to increase communication are likely to continue, as A whole range of components, such as soldier lethality, mobility, and situational well as in cyber defensive and offensive electro-optical sensors, lasers, data fu- awareness. Depending on the country, capabilities applicable to dismounted sion, advanced power management, have the technology readiness level or mar- operations. the potential to improve precision target- ket availability varies. For example, after ing. Such incremental improvements are several development and improvement Conclusion not necessarily visible priorities but exist iterations, the US Army Integrated Vis- in the background and often benefit from ual Augmentation System is planned to Current capability priorities for dismounted combat are the result of old challenges meeting availability of new technologies at an increased pace and a new operating environment, where mission success depends on offensive and defensive actions Photo: Rheinmetall in several domains (land, air, maritime, but also cyber and space). With a few exceptions – for example, the EU Generic Open Soldier System Refer- ence Architecture – capability development and procurement for dismounted combat is likely to be characterised by incremental but intensive insertion of new technologies in already existing dismounted soldier system architectures. Current research trends and capability priorities also show many dual-use applications, opening up opportunities for non-traditional and civilian companies. In this respect, the EU Commission’s Rheinmetall`s "Future Infantryman" soldier system is a modular, recent concrete steps to capitalise on integrated fighting system designed to provide significant lethality, dual-use synergies was welcome and survivability, mobility, battle command, and training to the infantryman. long-awaited. L

40 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 Marketing Report: Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd.

SIGINT – Finding the Invisible

IAI’s HERON family, represented by the radios use fast frequency hopping, low These capabilities can be deployed on strategic HERON TP, Medium-Altitude power, and efficient antennae to main- many types of UAS, with EO/IR and radars, Long-Endurance (MALE) HERON 1, HERON tain Low Probability of Intercept (LPI). on long-endurance missions, performing MK II and Tactical T-HERON, enables Burst digital transmissions of short packets multi-spectral sensing and multi-modal users to employ multi-sensor payloads also help evade detection. On the other sensor processing, integrating radar, to support evolving user needs, from the side, ultra-fast wideband digital receivers SIGINT, and EO/IR into a combined picture. tactical to the strategic levels. Providing can ‘hold’ even the shortest and weak- Augmented with onboard processing and commonality across the family, users can est signal with these capabilities. Modern a wideband data link relaying sensor data now operate mission integrating EO/IR SIGINT can scan, detect and track signals to a processing centre, drones operate at cameras, radars, and SIGINT payloads en- of agile emitters such as digital LPI radars the lower altitude, giving users detailed abling exciting new operational capabili- and encrypted and frequency hopping imaging of targets. The SIGINT layer pro- ties. With this multi-sensor surveillance, software-defined radios, as well as cellular vides the broadest theatre-view, pointing each UAS of the HERON family uncovers and satellite communications. EO/IR and radar to investigate targets, confirm identity, and verify engagement.

Photos: IAI Tactical SIGINT Operation

Deploying multiple sensors on small UAS like the Tactical HERON adds new dimensions to tactical operations. These operations may also use COMINT systems to analyse communication activity in the target vicinity. Small tactical UAS carrying such systems can operate as an organic element of the ground forces. UAS equipped with the common combination of EO/IR and radar cover a narrow footprint, but with SIGINT onboard, UAS broaden instantaneous coverage over hundreds of kilometres per second. Monitoring the battlespace across the RF strategic intentions, hidden threats and With SIGINT sensors becoming more com- spectrum, they pick every change that short-lived targets often missed by con- pact, they can be deployed on airborne may indicate the appearance of a new ventional means of collection. platforms such as Unmanned Aerial Systems threat, even in areas that may seem empty Today, every military presence emits a (UAS). Enhanced by powerful data process- to visual or radar scanning. Geolocating a distinctive signature that can be picked by ing capabilities, IAI’s modern SIGINT systems signal, other sensors onboard UAS probe visual sensors, radar, and electronic sur- produce actionable intelligence in real-time, the area for evidence, which can reveal veillance. The collection activity known as employing Artificial Intelligence and Ma- camouflaged vehicles, people on foot or in SIGINT – Signals Intelligence – monitors chine Learning (AI/ML) to process, filter, and moving vehicles, houses, shadowed move- Radio Frequency (RF) signals emitted by extract the most valuable and meaningful ment, or hidden underground facilities. systems. Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) information for the user. To deal with LPI, Target-acquisition-based COMINT relies monitors emissions related to radars and SIGINT must be able to cover the entire on the analysis of the signal characteris- weapon systems, assessing their mode of relevant spectrum, and implement robust, tics of specific users/devices like radars or activity by analysing signal parameters. advanced processing algorithms to focus on datalinks, emitting unique signals related COMINT regards intelligence gathered the most important signals. to specific operational phases and states. from radios, data links, satellite, and cellular interception. COMINT geolocates each node in symmetric and asymmetric conflicts and predicts even before a conflict, relating activities to known actors, identifying players, and combat formations, enabling analysts to prioritise targets and tracks obtained by other means.

A Game of Cat and Mouse

As threats become sophisticated, so are the sensors that chase those threats. Em- bracing digital technology, radars and  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY OPVs for and from Europe

Bob Nugent

Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) have emerged as a distinct vessel type in response to changing maritime security requirements, such as assuring environmental, economic and national security sovereignty in the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) established by the 1982 UN Convention for the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

uropean ship designers and builders new OPVS from and for Europe in the with requirements to operate in or near Ehave played a central role in the de- next two decades, drawing on market Antarctica also require larger OPVs with velopment of the OPV over the past 40 analysis data furnished by the US firm reinforced hulls. years. OPV designs from companies in AMI International. An OPV is often built to commercial Germany, France, Italy and the Nether- standards and is slower (top speed lands operate not only in European wa- Definition of OPV less than 20 knots) compared to naval ters but throughout the world. This arti- corvette and frigate designs which, in cle reviews the status of European-origin AMI defines Offshore Patrol Vessels as size and displacement, are most simi- OPVs now operating, and prospects for ships capable of operating in and pa- lar to OPVs. Some nations have built Photo: euro-sd.com

FRIESLAND is one of a quartet of Dutch HOLLAND class OPVs built by Damen. The design excels in conducting policing missions.

Author trolling EEZs for extended periods, OPVs with space and weight margins to measured in weeks and months. By vir- permit future installation of additional Bob Nugent is a recently-selected tue of its mission, an OPV is generally weapons. These OPVs are generally be Scholar Practitioner Fellow and larger than 700 Full Load Displacement built to naval standards and meeting Instructor at the Busch School of tonnes, giving it the needed range and naval hull and equipment shock re- Business at Catholic University of seakeeping characteristics for extended quirements. An OPV is generally lightly America, (Washington D.C.), as well offshore operations. In higher latitudes, armed, with medium sized guns rang- as Ph.D candidate in Strategy and north or south, or other regions, larger ing from 40-80 mm. Some OPVs are Management at Virginia Polytechnic wave heights drive the need for larger fitted to carry anti-ship missiles (ASMs) University. He continues to work as OPVs to operating in those conditions. or ASW equipment, such as sonars and a consultant and writer/commentator For example, India operates in waters torpedoes, in wartime. A good example in the Aerospace and Defense indus- that are known for very rough condi- of this is the Batch 2 of the Royal Navy’s try, affiliated with AMI International. tions. Most Indian OPVs are above 2,000 River class OPV, with space, rated at Bob is a retired naval officer. tons displacement. Nations in South 24 kn top speed, and an endurance of America such as Chile and Argentina 6300nm at 12kn.

42 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY 

OPVs in Service ropean OPVs are found evenly distributed New OPVs NATO (less Non- across regions such as the Caribbean and US and NATO AMI identifies 625 OPVs in service around South America, Sub-Saharan Africa and Canada) Europe the world in 2021. Of those, 188 have been the Asia-Australia region. Given the size built in European shipyards using European of the latter, one might expect a greater Average FLD 2878 2500 designs. This represents about 30% of the number of European OPVs there. However, Average 130.47 114.37 total number of OPVs operating today. The strong local construction capabilities in Chi- Cost/Hull table below identifies these 188 hulls by na Japan, South Korea and India account region, age, tonnage and length: for most OPVs in the Asia-Pacific. (US$ Million)

Region

Asia & Carib. & L. MENA NATO Non NATO Sub Saha- Australia America Europe ran Africa Number 15 27 20 92 16 18 188 Total % 8% 14% 11% 49% 9% 10% 100% % Average Age 12.40 22.33 19.25 17.32 18.63 20.67 18.43 Global (years) Average Avg Displace- 1980.80 1782.11 849.55 1995.76 2528.88 1200.00 1722.85 Global ment Average Average 247 246 207 264 253 212 238 Global Length (F) Average

Not unexpectedly, just over half of the Generally, current OPV fleets are under 20 OPVs accelerating in the last 20 years. Sec- world’s current fleet of Europe-origin OPVs years old, which is explained in part by two ond, longer at-sea time in rougher conditions are found in European countries – NATO factors. First, is the relatively recent emer- take a particular toll on OPV hulls, requiring and non-NATO nations including Sweden, gence of the OPV as a distinct type, with timely replacement to ensure enough ves- Finland, Ireland, and Malta. Elsewhere, Eu- construction of purpose designed and built sels are ready to meet commitments.

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AOC Europe Liverpool, UK 11-13 October 2021

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For sponsorship and exhibition enquires PHYSICAL DISTANCING CLEANING & HYGIENE PROTECT & DETECT COMMUNICATION contact James Condley, Event Manager Gold Sponsor Intelligence Workshop Partner Produced by Organised by [email protected]  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY

Total Number In Progress Planned Total Total Build contract to procure four GOWIND class of projects Value 2021 to 2040 offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) from Naval Group of France. Programmes in Chile and 65 34 28 40,211.65 266 Ecuador (Fassmer) and Uruguay (competition among several European firms) also Within this future market forecast, Euro- feature European firms as leaders. pean acquisitions (NATO excluding Can- In the MENA region, Libya and Morocco ada and the US) and Non-NATO Europe are identified as the best candidates for total 51, or just less than 20%. The table European suppliers of OPV design and Photo: Wire Target below shows that the average Full Load build services. South Africa is also expect- Displacement of the new OPVs forecasted ed to favour European offerors when it for Europe through 2021 ranges between reopens the stalled BIRO OPV programme. 2500 and 2,878 tonnes, while the aver- The Asia-Pacific region remains a growth age acquisition cost per hull for these market for OPVs, but local design and new OPVs ranges between US$144M and build options, or lower cost alternatives US$130M (2020 US$). from regional suppliers remain the prefer- European yards continue to enjoy some ence for most countries in the region. OPV export success, although increasing competition from builders in China and Conclusion Lürssen’s OPV 80 has been de- Korea have eroded traditionally strong signed to deploy up to four RHIBs, European positions in market such as The European domestic market remains e.g. in the context of operations Algeria and Thailand. Among OPV pro- the core for most European firms engaged against irregular forces. grammes that are building now in regions in design and construction of OPVs. A comparison of the numbers of current OPVs in service in European nations and the robust new construction programs il- lustrate that the OPV continues to be a ship type in high demand, and that OPVs

Picture: BAE Systems will continue to figure prominently in ship procurement plans in Europe. The situation on the export front is less optimistic. While European firms like France’s Naval Group, Damen in the Netherlands and Fassmer and Lurrsen The new OPVs of the UK Royal Navy are being built by BAE Systems in in Germany all offer creative, economi- Scotland and have been designed for range of 5,000 nautical miles and cal and effective OPV designs, Europe’s a top speed of 24 knots. share of the OPV export market has de- clined in the face of new competition Future European OPVs from local and Asia-Pacific region firms. beyond Europe, Latin America continues The continued success of OPVs for and AMI forecasts the market for new OPVs over to draw on European builders for design from Europe will increasingly centre on the next 20 years comprises 266 new hulls and/or construction. Examples include innovative design, operation and logistics to be built, at an estimated total acquisition Argentina, where in November 2018, the support advantages European companies cost of US$40.2Bn. Government of Argentina approved the bring to the global OPV market. L

SOVERON for RIVER Class Rohde & Schwarz has provided M3SR-Series 4100 HF radios of the SOVERON family for both batches of the British Royal Navy’s RIVER class OPVs. The software defined radios (SDR) are designed for shipborne communication and feature a modular design and a high degree of flexibility. Standards-based and proprietary waveforms support secure, voice and data communications in the HF and VHF/UHF frequency ranges. They are installed in racks within a ship’s radio room or at a shore station,. They support frequency hopping and provide interoperability with tactical radios in HF operating modes. Other Rohde & Schwarz reference pro- Photo: Crown Copyright grammes of the Royal Navy include the two QUEEN ELIZABETH class aircraft carriers, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary's BAY class vessels, and the Type 26 Global Combat Ship.

44 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 European Issue 9/2021 Security FOCUS ESD & Defence Ad Reservations: 20 August Ad Copy: 23 August Europe’s leading defence and security magazine. INTELLIGENCE FOR THE INTELLIGENT Publication Date: 3 September

Country Focus: THE UNITED KINGDOM 1. The UK’s Integrated Review of Security, Defence,Development and Foreign Policy 2. The Integrated Operating Concept

PLUS: •  Attack Helicopter Programmes in Europe •  Autonomous Warrior / Robotics on the Battlefield •  CBRN (5): Textiles •  CH-47 Modernisation in Europe •  Combat Supplies Management: POL, Water, Rations, Ammunition, Batteries •  Common European Frigate Programme Update •  Electrical power Generation & Storage at Sea •  FINABEL – European Army Interoperability •  Less Lethal Technology (2): Longer Range •  Long Range Imaging •  Military Assistance: MAC (A/C/P) •  Main Battle Tanks (MBT) in NATO •  NATO Deployment and Management in CEE •  Poland’s Defence Exports Ability and Acquisitions •  PMETS (Prot. Mob. Engr. & Tech. Sp.) Update •  Propulsion Options for Heavy Vehicles •  Protecting the Baltics •  Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) •  Route Denial •  Sonar Developments •  Stealth at Sea •  Tank Gun & Ammo Developments: 120mm and above •  Transport Options for Heavy Armour in Europe •  Vehicle Batteries: Management and Developments

MITTLER REPORT VERLAG GMBH 53173 Bonn, Germany · Phone: +49 (0)228-35008-70 · [email protected] www.euro-sd.com · www.eurosd.eu

Flyer_1_ESD_DSEI_2021_210x297.indd 1 17.05.21 07:42  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY Unmanned Surface and Underwater Vessels European Developments

Sidney E. Dean

Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USV) and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV) are a rapidly growing new element in the world’s navies. Mine Countermeasures (MCM) currently constitute a major focal point for unmanned systems but many additional applications are envisioned.

dditional applications include: recon- Anaissance and surveillance, maritime patrol, port and offshore facility security,

escort for high-value vessels, light strike Photo: Kongsberg missions, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), and hydrography. Depending on the size of the vessel, payload capacity and power plant, mission duration and range can vary from short to long. By permitting one mothership or operator-crew to control multiple platforms, USVs and UUVs can significantly expand the surveillance or patrol area with comparatively modest investment in resources. The United States Navy and its US sister services maintain the largest unmanned technology programmes in NATO. How- ever, European nations are also pursuing ambitious USV and UUV programmes, HUGIN UUVs have a 15-metre turning radius. with numerous firms on the continent and in the UK developing innovative dedicated to integrating unmanned sys- demonstrate the improvement of mari- technologies. These projects are pursued tems into naval operations. Various gen- time situational awareness through the as national or cooperative programmes, eral fleet exercises now regularly incor- coordinated use of multiple unmanned and benefit both NATO and the EU’s de- porate unmanned maritime technology systems in the three domains (air, surface, fence capabilities. alongside manned units. The Unmanned subsurface). Warrior segment of the British-hosted The first of two planned live capabilities NATO`s Posture on Maritime Joint Warrior 2016 exercise regularly in- demonstrations was conducted in the Unmanned Systems cludes dozens of remote controlled and Gulf of Tarento in 2019, under participa- autonomous systems. tion of five manned warships, four UAVs, The July 2018 NATO Summit in Brus- three USVs and two UUVs. The exercise sels saw the alliance affirm the impor- OCEAN2020 involved two scenarios, namely interdic- tance of investment in new unmanned tion of a threatening vessel, and intercept capabilities, including for the maritime The European Union is implement- of a mine-laying vessel in advance of an domain. Seventeen nations (including ing similar initiatives as part of the EU’s amphibious landing. Manned-unmanned the USA, Canada and Australia) have Common Security and Defence Policy. teaming was a central aspect of the sce- become signatories to the Maritime Un- The OCEAN2020 (Open Cooperation narios. manned Systems (MUS) Declaration of for European mAritime awareNess) pro- The second live demonstration is sched- Intent (DoI) first presented in October gramme unites 43 research and industry uled for this coming August, and will be 2018. NATO’s annual Recognized Envi- partners from 15 nations in develop- held in the Hanö Bight in southeastern ronmental Picture, Maritime Unmanned ing, testing and integrating unmanned Sweden. Eighteen unmanned systems Systems (REM MUS) exercise series was systems for maritime operations. It was are to be included. In between, the pro- introduced in 2019 to help implement launched in 2018 and is implemented gramme has conducted three increasing- the agreed upon cooperation. Hosted under the supervision of the European ly complex simulations. According to a by Portugal, REM MUS is currently the Defence Agency (EDA). According to the March 2021 press release, the latest sim- world’s largest military exercise solely EDA, OCEAN2020's main objective is to ulated trial included swarming tactics by

46 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY 

UAVs, USVs and UUVs, and deployment of missile systems on board unmanned aerial and surface systems tasked with

neutralising high speed surface threats, Photo: Kongsberg protecting choke points and detecting underwater intrusions.

Incorporating Unmanned Systems The European interest in USV and UUV technology is dictated by the geographical realities of the region. While unmanned systems are being developed which can autonomously cross thousands of kilometres on the high seas, US- Vs and UUVs are particularly suited to operations in littoral waters, archipelagos, HUGIN UUVs are equipped with acoustic communication links providing straits and narrows. Their value as force real time status monitoring of the vehicle and payload sensors. multipliers in the Black Sea, Mediterrane- an, and Baltic is obvious, but unmanned (and potentially armed) pickets could also serve well along the GIUK Gap and in

the Arctic. Several European armed forc- Photo: Kongsberg es are incorporating the ability to carry, refit and deploy multiple USVs and UUVs into the design of new warship classes. These include the UK’s Global Combat Ship frigates, Type 31 frigates, and above all the Type 32 frigates (which seem to be largely intended as motherships for unmanned systems). In November 2020, Jeremy Quin, Minister of State for De- fence Procurement, explicitly stated that “it is envisioned that Type 32 will be a platform for autonomous systems, adding to the Navy’s capabilities for missions such as anti-submarine warfare and mine countermeasures.” The future ASW frigates being developed for the Dutch and The HUGIN UUV can be deployed from any ship with up to 5 metres Belgian navies are being configured with freeboard using a proprietary ramp system. side-bays for 7-metre USVs (the original frigate design, designated the RMF-22D, had called for 12-metre USVs, but was cancelled due to cost). The multi-mission portal at the bow of Sweden’s new SAAB Photo: Kogsberg A26 submarine class is intended to accommodate, among other equipment, larger and more capable UUVs. Among the many potential applications (beyond MCM), anti-submarine warfare stands out as the most impressive. In principle, USVs can be equipped with lightweight ASW torpedoes such as Leonardo’s WHITEHEAD BLACK AR- ROW, which was specifically designed to be launched from UAVs and USVs. Given their small size and shallow draft, these vessels are in turn difficult for submarines to combat. Their deployment on manned The 10-metre long, 1.2-metre diameter HUGIN ENDURANCE can warships could thus offer a significant autonomously perform underwater reconnaissance at depths up to enhancement to ASW capabilities, espe- 6,000 metres. The operational range of 1,200 nm is 50 per cent greater cially in high-priority submarine corridors than the distance between Scotland and Iceland, and four times the such as the GIUK gap. width of the Denmark Strait.

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 47  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY

USV Programmes in Europe

ECA’s INSPECTOR 125 is currently one of

the most advanced European USVs. The Photo: Royal Navy aluminium-composite-hulled, high-seas capable vessel can be deployed in either autonomous or remote control mode. The potential mission suite includes ASW, ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance and Recon- naissance), force protection, interception and deterrence operations, and MCM. The 12.5-metre boat can autonomously deploy and recover a variety of smaller unmanned systems including UUVs, as well as towed sonars, in up to Sea State 4 conditions. With an at-sea endurance of 40 hours, the boat can significantly enhance a carrier ship’s ISR range, including deployment of ASW sensors. An unarmed INSPECTOR 125 played a central role in the EDA’s 2019 demonstration in the Gulf of Tarento, where it was deployed to intercept, identify and The Royal Navy began testing the first crewless variant of the time- warn off an oncoming high-speed ves- proven BAE PACIFIC 24 RHIB in 2020. The unmanned platform can be sel, and later to inspect damage done by equipped with an LRAD and a remotely controlled machine gun. a manned frigate’s gun. During the same exercise, a 7-metre, closed-deck SEAD 23 radar, sounder and five high resolution of sea lane and littoral waters, as well as was used extensively for ISR. Produced by pilot cameras. SED 23 can drop sensors intercept and neutralisation missions. The Spain’s SeaDrone, the USV reaches 33 kn into the sea. Optional equipment – not British Royal Navy has more recently been and has a 200 nm range at 20 kn. Stand- employed during the exercise – includes testing the PACIFIC 24 and PACIFIC 950 ard equipment includes a thermic/day a .50 calibre machine gun mount. RHIBs equipped with an add-on remote light gyrostabilised camera, solid state Turkey’s ULAQ is one of the most pow- control module. Developed by BAE Sys- erful armed USVs developed by a NATO tems and ASV Global, these optionally nation. The prototype, produced by manned RHIBs feature speeds up to 47 ARES Shipyard and Meteksan Defence, knots, and operational endurance of 10

Credit: tkMS began sea trials in February 2021. The days or 1,200 nm (at 5 knots). Optional composite-hulled boat has a top speed payloads include sensors (electro-optic, of 35 kn and a range of 215 nm (400 radar, meteorological, depth sounders), kilometres). The 11-metre boat can be communications and relay suites, long- launched from shore or from warships. range acoustic device (LRAD) hailers, and The prototype is armed with four 70mm a .50 calibre machine gun mount. BAE infrared-guided CIRIT rockets and two systems cites suitability for ASW, ISR, 160mm L-UMTAS anti-tank guides mis- force and installation protection, mari- siles; both weapon types are manufac- time interdiction and support for manned tured by Roketsan and have up to 8,000 boarding operations. Concept of tkMS' Modifiable metres range. The seakeeping trials will Underwater Mothership (MUM) be followed by weapons firing trials. As UUV Programmes in Europe configured, the ULAQ is intended for infrastructure protection, escort, and Unmanned underwater vehicles – wheth- asymmetric warfare missions. Future er deployed from manned or unmanned planned mission modules will equip the vessels – add an additional spectrum to Credit: Msubs boat for electronic warfare, ASW, ISR, fleet capabilities. Current applications and search and Rescue. range from MCM to hydrography to ISR. Optionally-manned Rigid-Hulled In- In the near future, considerably larger flatable Boats (RHIB) are another force systems will add offensive capabilities in- multiplier for surface ships. The 6-metre cluding minelaying and ASW. SEARIDER USV developed by Greek sys- Kongsberg’s HUGIN family of torpedo- tems integrator Intracom Defence was shaped and sized, fully autonomous Msubs Ltd, which has been tasked widely deployed as a reconnaissance/ob- UUVs is currently being marketed. Mili- to develop a 30-metre concept server platform during the OCEAN2020 tary applications include MCM, ISR, UUV for the Royal Navy, has al- experiment of 2019. According to In- rapid environmental assessment (REA), ready designed the 9.5 metre MO- tracom, the SEARIDER can be equipped undersea search and survey, harbour RAY UUV with 48 hours endurance with lethal and non-lethal armament for protection and port clearance support, and 305 metre depth capability. missions including persistent surveillance and beachhead reconnaissance ahead of

48 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY 

amphibious operations. The UUV can be launched and recovered via Kongsberg’s STINGER ramp system in Sea State 4

conditions. Payload options include high Photo: Royal Navy resolution still cameras, very high resolution synthetic aperture sonar (with 5x5 cm resolution) or side-scan sonar, various sensors to map and survey the ocean bottom, and chemical sensors to analyse water composition. Depending on configuration, HUGIN UUVs can operate at depths of 6,000 metres, with an endurance up to 100 hours; on seabed imaging and bathymetry missions, the vessel covers 4.5 square kilometres per hour. The newest addition to the line, HUGIN ENDURANCE, represents a major leap in capabilities. Utilising latest developments in lithium-ion battery technology, it features a 15-day uninterrupted mis- The Royal Navy is investing £3M into testing unmanned small surface sion endurance and 1,200 nm opera- vessels such as the BAE PACIFIC 24 RHIB. tional range. At 10 metres length and 1.2 metres diameter, the ENDURANCE ship (MUM) project initiated in 2017. The metres. The autonomous system would is four metres longer than the HUGIN length of the reconfigurable vessel could be suitable for extreme environments 6000, but still fits inside a standard con- vary from 25-50 metres. Emissions-free including the Arctic. While ostensibly tainer. fuel cell technology would enable the geared toward commercial applications, In June 2020, Thyssenkrupp Marine vessel to operate for up to a year at low the MUM concept has clear potential Systems (tkMS) presented the results of speeds, with an operational range of for military missions as well, from ISR their Modifiable Underwater Mother- 700 nm and operational depths of 2,000 to deployment of mines and torpedoes.

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According to a tkMS statement in 2020, the technology could be operational within a few years. The British Royal Navy is directly pursuing Photo: BAE Systems a stealthy 30-metre long extra-large UUV which would be somewhat bigger than the US Navy’s ORCA XLUUV. In 2020, the RN awarded Msubs Ltd a £1M contract for concept work toward developing a test submarine with a range of 3,000 nm and an endurance of three months. As an interim step, the RN is reviewing the fea- The autonomous PACIFIC 950 RHIB developed by BAE Systems for the sibility of converting a manned submers- Royal Navy can operate for ten days at patrol speed or cover 300 nm in ible for unmanned operations. Additional pursuit mode. funding will be contingent on results of the preliminary research.

Photo: IDE New Skill Sets and Mindsets

Widespread introduction of unmanned and autonomous systems will require development of new skill sets and operational concepts. The UK’s approach could set a model for other nations. The RN announced in March that it is joining with other government agencies and private sector firms to form the Apprenticeship Trailblazer Group in Autonomous and Remote Vessel Opera- tions. The working group’s goal is development of formal apprenticeship programmes for remote and autonomous The SEARIDER USV by INTRACOM DEFENSE (IDE) was used extensively as operations, both above and below the an ISR resource during the European Defence Agency’s 2019 at sea surface. According to the British MoD, demonstration of manned-unmanned maritime operations. the group will initially identify the basic skills and knowledge an individual will need to safely navigate, control and manage small to medium-sized vessels, and provide operators with suitable certification. As the industry grows, the group will develop more advanced

Photo: EDA/OCEAN2020 knowledge routes and specialties that will be required for the operation of autonomous vessels in both the military and civilian sectors. Other nations might take a different approach, but ultimately no fleet introducing An INSPECTOR 125 USV deployed in 2019 during the EDA’s Gulf of a large and varied unmanned component Tarento exercise. can circumvent the need for adapting operational procedures to account for the unique aspects of the new technology. This goes beyond navigational safety or

Image: ECA the mechanics of command and control. USVs and UUVs bring new capabilities of their own, while enhancing capabilities of manned ships. Exploiting these advantages to their full potential will require adjustment of operational tactics. Naval academies and staff colleges are already incorporating unmanned systems into their curricula. Whether their impact will be evolutionary or revolutionary remains to be seen, but autonomous systems will A concept of the INSPECTOR 125 deploying a UUV transform naval operations. L

50 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 Viewpoint from India

A Global No-First Use Photo: Debalina Ghoshal of Nuclear Weapons

Debalina Ghoshal

ne of the best ways to strengthen nuclear deterrence is to warheads, not one or two. But (they tell us) we can’t have them. Oadopt a global no-first-use (NFU) treaty- forcing all nuclear This, I cannot accept.” He further expressed concerns about Israel weapon states (NWS) - Britain, France, China, Russia and the US possessing such capabilities. Thus, while Israel’s nuclear capability and nuclear weapon powers like India and Pakistan to sign the reveals a domino theory, namely if one state becomes a nuclear treaty. Since a treaty is legally binding, states are bound to its norms power, others want to follow suit, and that includes Turkey. An- and commitments; failure to do so can result in punishment.. Such kara’s journey towards a nuclear weapons capability may reveal a a treaty also raises the global nuclear threshold, thereby strength- reverse domino theory in the region with Israel finding it difficult ening global nuclear deterrence strategic stability. Establishing to give up its nuclear capability - as seen in the case with Iran. This nuclear-weapons-free zones (NWFZ) is one way to ensure that reverse domino theory for Israel is not just confined to the MENA those states with nuclear weapons can proceed towards a ‘no first region, but also extends to the South Asian periphery. The threat use’ treaty and that threats from newer nuclear weapon states, from a 2,750 km range SHAHEEN III ballistic missile developed by especially those belonging to a NWFZ, are diminished. Pakistan with the capability of reaching targets in Israel is not es- However, one of the unsuccessful elements of the global Nuclear chewed by Tel Aviv. Again, Pakistan’s reluctance to join the Fissile Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) has been the failure to establish a Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT) has been a worrying factor. NWFZ in the Middle East. Given the instability in the region, a NWFZ Many scholars and policy-makers may also advocate for Israel to join is the only way forward to force prospective nuclear power states in the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) to ensure that a NWFZ is that region to sign a global NFU treaty. This means that states like easily implemented in the Middle East through the NPT. However, Iran, Israel (believed to be in possession of nuclear weapons), Turkey with threats to Israel also emanating from Pakistan, Israel would find and Saudi Arabia need to accept a NWFZ in the region. This is a it difficult to join the NPT as long as Pakistan does not join, with the cumbersome task since nuclear deterrence in the Middle East is not latter’s decision depending on India joining. just confined to the region in the narrow sense but also to the wider As long as a NWFZ is not established in the Middle East, the NWS area, known as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. could find it difficult to adhere to a ‘global no-first use’ treaty. Bilat- While the Treaty of Pelindaba has established a NWFZ on the African eral ‘no-first use’ treaties could exist between states, despite them continent, Egypt, which became a signatory to the treaty in 1996 at not having adopted a ‘no-first use’ doctrine, as seen in the case with the outset, has yet to ratify the treaty. There is no doubt that Israel’s China and Russia. China’s ‘no-first use’ doctrine is conditional while nuclear capability has kept Egypt away from ratifying the Pelindaba Russia gave up its ‘no-first use’ commitment after the collapse of Treaty. For Israel, on the other hand, with Egypt not ratifying the the Soviet Union, but both countries bilaterally maintain the ‘no-first treaty, its relevance is greatly reduced. Though other African Arab use’ doctrine. states with possible nuclear capabilities, Algeria for example, have However, for states to adopt a global ‘no-first use’ treaty, mak- signed and ratified the treaty, due to its past wars with Egypt, it is ing the Middle East a NWFZ is a prerequisite for this to happen. imperative for Israel that Cairo ratifies the treaty. States in this region have not declared any nuclear weapons ca- Again, the possible military dimension of Iran’s nuclear programme pability, and there are no written or perceived nuclear doctrines negates any possibility for Israel give up on its own nuclear capabili- or strategies. This ambiguity in the region is another hindrance ties. In addition, while Saudi Arabia claims its nuclear programme is in achieving a ‘global no-first-use’. Moreover, possession of a meant for peaceful purpose, Riyadh has repeatedly refused to accept nuclear weapons capability in this region raises concerns of pro- the US Gold Standard. liferation risks not just to state actors, but also non-state actors. Furthermore, in 2019, Turkey’s President Erdogan expressed his NWS and nuclear weapons powers will not be able to avoid these concern, stating that “Some countries have missiles with nuclear threats and concerns.

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 51  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY The TEJAS Light Combat Aircraft India’s Single Largest Indigenous Defence Order

Suman Sharma

It is not about what equipment you have, it is what you do with it. One is reminded how even before the formation of the State of Israel, Messerschmitts were scrambled by an amorphous primitive air force to prevent a Syrian-Egyptian invasion force which planned an attack before Israel was granted statehood.

ndia has come a long way from its first Iever indigenously developed fighter- bomber – the HF-24 MARUT ("Spirit of the Tempest") in the 1960s, when it real- Photos: via author ised the importance of having its own indigenous fighter aircraft after a war with Pakistan. The HF-24 MARUT debuted after India’s crushing defeat at the hands of China in 1962, followed by another Chinese conflict in 1967. The 1971 Indo- Pak War was the first full-fledged war in which the MARUT participated before being discontinued in the 1980s.

Self-Reliant India The HAL TEJAS Mk-1A variant is an indigenously designed, developed and The single largest defence order ever, val- manufactured state-of-the-art modern 4+ generation fighter aircraft. ued at US$6.575Bn for the indigenous manufacture under the ‘Self-Reliant In- HAL will provide a further boost to the (Integrated Guided Missiles Develop- dia’ (Atmanirbhar Bharat) programme to indigenisation policy by energising the ment Programme) was conceptualised date was recently awarded to the Indian domestic defence industry. About 500 to develop guided missiles at home, Government-owned aircraft manufactur- Indian companies, including MSMEs (Me- a programme which finally took off in ing agency HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics dium Small Micro Enterprises) will partner the early 1980s. After fighting five ma- Limited) for 83 LCA (Light Combat Air- with HAL for this order. The primary pri- jor wars with its immediate neighbours craft) TEJAS Mk-1A fighter jets for the vate Indian players for this order are L&T and a never-ending counter insurgency, IAF (Indian Air Force), thereby injecting (Larsen & Toubro), Dynamatic Technolo- with Maoist Naxalites on a daily basis, impetus to the nation’s indigenous fight- gies, Vem Technologies, and Alpha Tocol and facing sanctions from the West after er aircraft capability. The approved pro- Engineering Services. the 1998 nuclear tests, India realised the curement includes 73 LCA TEJAS Mk-1A Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated his importance of having its own weapons fighters and 10 LCA TEJAS Mk-1 trainers vision as, “We dream of a day when India programme. costing US$6.259Bn, along with the de- is completely self-reliant in defence pro- Baba Kalyani, Chairman of Bharat Forge, sign and development of infrastructure duction and exports defence equipment Kalyani Group, states, “Before 2000, we worth US$165M. worldwide.” were unable to design a single car; all the Aimed at the indigenous design, devel- Responding to PM Modi’s clarion call for cars were designed in Japan, Europe or opment and manufacture of advanced ‘Self-Reliance’ amidst the Covid-19 pan- somewhere else. We were just convert- cutting-edge technologies and systems demic, and the India-China stand-off, ing.” in the defence sector under Atmanirb- which has lasted eight months, India, the Considering the border challenges and har Bharat’, the manufacture of LCAs by world’s second largest arms importer, ac- the need to counter the falling squadron cording to the SIPRI list, went ahead with strength, the IAF has already received Author its biggest indigenous defence order. 14 out of the 36 RAFALE fighters from France under a contract signed in 2016. Suman Sharma is a Delhi-based Indigenisation The IAF is also looking forward to its journalist covering foreign policy and 114 multi-role fighter deal worth over defence. Previously, she was an instruc- The need for indigenisation was first US$15Bn. A fully-loaded LCA Mk-1A costs tor at the Indian Military Academy. felt in 1958 by India’s first Prime Minis- approximately one third of the RAFALE, ter Jawaharlal Nehru when the IGMDP according to experts, but a comparison is

52 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY  misplaced as both are in a different class, with the LCA falling in the lightweight category and RAFALE is a heavy fighter. A former pilot (not wishing to be named), says,” Given the military stand-off, it makes a considerable sense to produce indigenous equipment and put more and more of them into the hands of the military, as it creates a surprise element for the enemy, as the indigenous equipment is new to the market. Any internationally procured equipment is well known to the enemy in terms of its capability and thus can give him a strategic advantage. The unknown equipment will not give a reaction time to the enemy to counter giving the vital edge (response time) to our forces.” Retired IAF Air Marshal and a former MI- RAGE pilot Anil Chopra says, “83 LCA TEJAS aircraft will start inducting from early 2024. LCA Mk-1A production should be complete by March 2022 so there will be a gap of two years. The second issue is the need to ramp up production to at An Indian Airforce TEJAS LCA at the Aero India trade show in 2007 least 18 aircraft per year to make good on the numbers for the IAF. While AMCA dar, BVR (Beyond Visual Range) missile, ensured that the private players do not (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) and EW (Electronic Warfare) suite and AAR carry out the detailed parts and the wing LCA Mk-2 development must be sped up, (Air to Air Refuelling) capability, it would assembly during the proto platforms.” additional fighters should be brought in be a potent platform to meet the opera- The industry also has other concerns such from abroad. One choice is to go for ad- tional requirements of the IAF. This is the as sourcing from the manufacturers of ditional RAFALEs to save time because first “Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed detailed parts by being development the RFP has yet to be issued and the full Developed and Manufactured)” catego- partners without commensurate value- process will take 5-6 years for induction. ry procurement of combat aircraft with transfer to them. Private manufacturers We have enough infrastructure for two an indigenous content of 50% which are critical of the fact that the Govern- more squadrons.” promises to progressively reach 60% by ment has been instrumental in intensi- To augment the production capacity and the end of the programme, after which fying the monopoly of HAL, which has ensure the timely supply of the LCA Mk- about 250 out of 344 systems fitted in disallowed an ecosystem to flourish, as in 1A to the IAF, a second production facility the aircraft will be home-made. the case of Boeing and Lockheed Martin, (Plant II) was handed over to HAL ear- The deliveries of all 83 aircraft should be both of whom are designers and platform lier this year. Former HAL Chairman PV completed in an eight-year timeframe. integrators while there are super tier-1s Deshmukh observes, “Earlier, HAL had HAL will hand over the first three aircraft who build the airframe assemblies both all the workload, therefore could not un- in the third year and 16 aircraft per year major and minor - like the front fuselage, dertake deliveries on time bringing the for five years. rear fuselage, wings, rudders, avionics in- efficiency of HAL into question, but this Infrastructure development by IAF under tegrators, engine, and weapon systems time the Government has followed the the project was also given the nod by suppliers. Without such an ecosystem of Boeing-Airbus model, by bringing in pri- the Government enabling repairs and T1, T2, T3 levels who construct different vate-public partnership and dividing the servicing at base depots so that the turn- levels of aggregates, it is insurmountable work-share. The fuselage, to be made in around time will be reduced for mission to gain scale and product efficiency while three parts, and the wings will be manu- critical systems, thereby increasing avail- meeting timelines. factured by the private players and the ability of aircraft for operational exploi- The LCA programme which began in two HAL assembly lines activated for the tation. As a result, the IAF will be able 1983, has been fraught with challeng- order will carry out the coupling of the to sustain the fleet more efficiently and es of long production delays, engine parts, testing and test-flights, all of which effectively due to the availability of repair issues, time and cost overruns. The will ensure timely deliveries.” infrastructure at respective bases. fighter obtained its initial operational A senior industry source says, “The clearance in 2011 and its final opera- LCA Mk-1A LCA has good content except its engine tional clearance in 2019. India’s audit which is now the GE 404 as the Kaveri watchdog CAG (Comptroller & Auditor The LCA Mk-1A variant is an indigenously programme did not succeed. There are General) and the Parliamentary Stand- designed, developed and manufactured complexities in building an entire ecosys- ing Committee on Defence have both state-of-the-art modern 4+ generation tem as the MoD and Government of India cracked the whip on HAL and DRDO fighter aircraft. Equipped with critical op- have put all their eggs in HAL’s basket all (Defence Research and Development erational capabilities including the AESA along. MoD/HAL’s monopoly in the mili- Organisation) for their poor perfor- (Active Electronically Scanned Array) ra- tary aviation market is harmful. HAL has mance which has led to delays. L

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 53  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY Killing the Lurking Submarine

Doug Richardson

For many decades, the classic antisubmarine weapons were the depth charge and the antisubmarine warfare (ASW) mortar. Although effective in their day, both are now totally obsolete, having last seen combat action in the South Atlantic in 1982.

he ASW rocket launcher was a later Tdevelopment with a longer range that the ASW mortar. Now obsolescent, rocket Photo: Saab launchers are still being marketed only by Russia and China. The deployment in 1943 of what was then classified as the MK 24 mine (a measure intended to disguise its true nature) revolutionised ASW operations. This pioneering weapon was the first lightweight ASW torpedo, and used a combination of electric propulsion and passive acoustic homing. A total of 204 were released against submarine targets, and resulted in the destruction of 37 submarines, and damage to a further 17. Today's ASW torpedoes can be considered descendants of the MK 24. They can be launched from ships, dropped from fixed- The guidance system of the Saab Lightweight Torpedo uses factors such as wing aircraft and helicopters, or carried to target speed, size and strength of the acoustic signal to determine wheth- their target area by an ASW missile. er a target is valid. The torpedo will steer itself to collide with the subma- More than 35 nations currently operate the rine’s hull, and the warhead will be detonated by an impact sensor. Aerojet MK 46 torpedo, which has been in service since the late 1960s. The MK 46 is sion system uses sulphur hexafluoride and In 1964, the UK launched its own ASW 2.59 m long, 324 mm diameter, weighs 230 lithium to generate steam to drive a pump- torpedo programme. Development was kg, and is armed with a 44 kg warhead. jet propulsion system. This gives a speed of protracted, but the resulting GEC-Marconi Powered by a two-speed reciprocating ex- more than 40 kn, a maximum operating (later Marconi Space and Defence Systems, ternal combustion engine, and guided by depth of 580 m and an operational range then Marconi Underwater Systems Ltd active or passive/active acoustic homing, it of 15 km. then BAE Systems Underwater Systems) has a speed of more than 40 kn, and can STING RAY torpedo entered service in operate at depths of up to 370 m. The Mod Lightweight ASW Torpedoes 1982. Propelled by a pump jet driven by an 5 variant became operational in 1979, but electric motor powered by a magnesium/ a later Mod 5A and Mod 5A(S) versions im- The MK 46 and MK 50 had been designed silver-chloride sea water battery, it had a proved the shallow-water performance. for deep-water use, but the growing need range of 8 to 11 km, a speed of 45 kn, By the 1970s, NATO faced the threat posed to conduct ASW operations in littoral wa- and a maximum operating depth of 800 by fast deep-diving nuclear submarines ters led to the creation of the Raytheon MK m. The improved Mod 1 version was de- such as the Russian Project 705 ALFA class. 54 Lightweight Torpedo. This reuses sub- signed to offer an improved shallow-water Development of a torpedo optimised for systems from other US lightweight torpe- performance and carries a new shaped- this class of target started in 1974, and the does, including the active or passive/active charge warhead. Current users are the UK, resulting MK 50 (developed by Honeywell acoustic homing section of the MK 50 and Morocco, Norway, Romania, and Thailand. and manufactured by Alliant Techsystems) the warhead and propulsion sections of the As STING RAY demonstrates, the general entered service in 1991. Its novel propul- MK 46. Designed for release by aircraft or pattern in lightweight ASW torpedo de- surface ships, and armed with a 44 kg war- velopment is to base new designs on the Author head, it has an operational range of 9 km size, shape, and other physical specifica- and a maximum speed of more than 40 kn. tions of the US weapons. This ensures that Following an earlier career in The MK 54 entered service in 2004. Cur- the weapon will be compatible with NATO- engineering, Doug Richardson is a rent users include the US, Australia, India, standard torpedo tubes and airborne car- defence journalist specialising in Netherlands, Thailand, and the UK. Canada riage and release systems. topics such as aircraft, missiles, and and Brazil plan to use conversion kits to France and Italy both planned to develop military electronics. upgrade their current Mk 46 torpedoes to their own ASW torpedo, starting the the MK 54 standard. Thomson Sintra Murène and Whitehead

54 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY 

A290 programmes in the 1980s. However, the early 1990s saw the formation of the EuroTorp, a Franco/Italian consortium con- Photo: USN sisting of Whitehead Alenia Sistemi Sub- acquei (WASS), Naval Group, and Thales Underwater Systems. This organisation became responsible for the A244/S and MU90/IMPACT lightweight torpedoes, the latter resulting from merger of the French and Italian projects. The MU90/IMPACT is an electrically propelled weapon powered by an aluminium and silver oxide (Al-AgO) sea water battery. It weighs 304 kg, has a maximum speed of 50 kn, a range of over 23 km at minimum speed, and can operate at depths of more than 1,000 m. Current users include France, Italy, Australia, Denmark, Germany, and Poland.

The A244S Design Sonar technicians on the TICONDEROGA class guided-missile cruiser BUNKER HILL (CG 52) work on a MK 46 torpedo. The WASS lightweight torpedo is an older design that entered service in 1982 and has service in 2012, and in March 2021, the the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force. been adopted by around 20 navies. Suit- Indian Navy successfully conducted the first Development was begun in 1989, and the able for launch from surface vessels or from test-launch from an Ilyushin Il-38 maritime Type 97 entered service in 1997. Powered aircraft, it is powered by an electric motor aircraft. Several export orders have been by closed-cycle turbine running on Otto II fed by an Al-AgO battery, and is guided by received, but the only identified recipient propellant, it can be carried by P-3 ASW a CIACIO-S seeker able to operate in active, is Myanmar. aircraft and MK 32 torpedo tubes fitted to passive or mixed modes. The latest version A batch of A244/S torpedoes purchased for surface ships. is the A244-S mod 3. evaluation from Italy in 1987, along with a In South Korea, LIG Nex1 developed the The A244S torpedo formed the basis for US MK 46 Mod 2 torpedo recovered from K745 CHUNG SANG EO (BLUE SHARK) India's Advanced Light Torpedo (TAL) SHY- the South China Sea in 1978 may have torpedo. This can be fitted to surface ships ENA. The Naval Science and Technological formed the basis for China's Yu-7. Powered such as the Incheon class frigates, or car- Laboratory (NSTL) started development of by contrarotating propellers driven by Otto ried by ASW helicopters and maritime pa- in the 1990s, and user evaluation trials took fuel II, the Yu-7 entered service in the 1990s. trol aircraft. place in 2003–2005. Electrically propelled, It was followed by the Yu-11. This is longer SHYENA has an endurance of six minutes, and heavier than the Yu-7, and is thought to Russian ASW Torpedoes operating at depths of a few hundred be powered by a pump-jet propulsor. metres. It can perform pre-programmed Like many Japanese weapons systems, the Current Russian light ASW torpedo is the search patterns, homing onto its target by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Type 97 Tor- APR-3E. Designed by Russian Tactical Mis- passive/active homing. SHYENA entered pedo is not exported, but serves only with siles Corporation JSC to replace the earlier APR-2. It is 3.685 m long, 350 mm in diameter, and weighs 525 kg, so is larger and heavier that its Western counterparts. Photo: USN Suitable for carriage by fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft such as the Tu-142, Il-38, and Ka-28, it travels in an unpowered spi- ral path after entering the water, while its acoustic seeker searches for targets. Once the target is located, the torpedo ignites its solid-propellant rocket engine and homes at a speed of up to 56 kn. However, its maximum range is only around 3 km. De- liveries of an improved APR-3M version started several years ago. A new pattern of ship-launched ASW torpedo is entering Russian service. Part of an ASW system designated Paket-E/NK, it is 324 mm in diameter, has a maximum speed of 50 kn, uses acoustic active/passive homing, and carries an 80 kg warhead. In addi- The USN guided missile destroyer BULKELEY (DDG 84) launches a MK 50 tion to attacking submarines, it can also be torpedo during an exercise in the Arabian Gulf. used to counter enemy torpedoes, engag-

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 55  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY

ing the latter at ranges of up to 1.4 km. Trials of the system are reported to have Photo: USN ended in 2019. Designed for the Swedish Navy, the Saab Dynamics Torpedo 47 or SLWT (Saab Light- weight Torpedo) is intended for use against submarine and surface targets. Larger and heavier than most of the torpedoes described so far, it is 2.85 m long, 400 mm in diameter, and weighs around 340 kg. Intended for use from surface vessels, submarines, or aircraft, the design has been optimised for use against littoral submarine targets, as well as surface vessels. Electri- cally propelled, and powered by a lithium- based rechargeable battery, the SLWT uses guidance via a trailing wire or optical fibre in the early stages of its attack, switching to acoustic homing for the final phase.

An inert MK 54 torpedo is prepared for an OTTO Fuel II spill exercise at ASW Missiles the Navy Munitions Command East Asia Division (NMC EAD) Unit at Mis- awa in Japan. ASW missiles have a greater range than earlier weapons such as mortars and rocket-launchers, and deliver their payload faster than a shipboard helicopter. Some early types could carry a nuclear depth bomb, Photo: UK MoD but current examples deliver an ASW torpedo. Until the latter enters the water and activates it propulsion system, the submarine being targeted is unlikely to be aware that it is about to be engaged. Formerly deployed by more than 12 navies, the Honeywell RUR-5 ASROC entered service in the 1960s, but now serves only with Japan and Taiwan. 4.5 m in length, 420 mm in diameter, and weighing 487 kg, it used a rocket motor to deliver a Mark 46 torpedo to a location up to 9.7 km away. After being released from the rocket at a precalculated Royal Navy Type 23 frigate WESTMINSTER launches a STING RAY point on its trajectory, this descended by torpedo in an exercise intended to test the launcher and the ship's parachute before entering the sea. A nucle- sonar capabilities. ar-armed variant equipped with a W44 10kt nuclear depth bomb was used only by the USN, but was retired in 1989. Design and development of a vertically- Photo: USN launched version of ASROC that would be compatible with the USN's MK 41 Vertical Launching System missile was begun in 1983 by Goodyear Aerospace (now part of Lockheed Martin). The first version was an RUR-5 ASROC fitted with an upgraded booster section with thrust vector control (TVC) and a digital guidance system. Follow- on RUM-139A and -139B versions retained the Mark 46, but the RUM-139C introduced the MK 54 torpedo. Maximum range is around 22 km. Known operators of ASROC- VL include the US, Japan, and Thailand.

South Korean Designs A RUM-139 VL-ASROC missile is fired from the Mk 41 vertical launching system of the ARLEIGH BURKE class guided-missile destroyer FITZGER- South Korea developed its own vertically- ALD (DDG 62) during exercise Multisail 17. launched ASW missile. the LIG Nex1 HONG

56 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY 

SANG EO (RED SHARK) – also known as K-ASROC. The HONG SANG EO is 5.7 m long, weighs 820 kg, has a range of 19 km, and carries the locally developed K745 BLUE SHARK torpedo. It equips South Ko- Photo: Russian MoD rea's CHUNGMUGONG YI SUN-SIN (KDX- II) and KING SEJONG THE GREAT (KDX-III) class destroyers.

Chinese and Russian Developments The CY-1 is China's equivalent to ASROC, but differs from the US weapon in that its rocket-powered booster does not incorporate any form of guidance, but flies a ballistic trajectory until the moment of payload release. It can deliver a ET52 or Yu-7 class torpedo to a range of up to 18 km. CY-2 is based on C-802 missile, and uses The box launcher on this Russian UDALOY class destroyer has been the same turbojet engine. This gives the opened to show the ship's SS-N-14 missiles. CY-2 a maximum range of 55 km, but limits the flyout to high subsonic speed. The APR-3E-armed version of the CY-1, for maximum range of 45 km. Two versions normal payload is a lightweight torpedo, which the designation CY-4 has been are known – the VYUGA-53 of 533 mm but a version armed with a depth charge reported. The introduction of a modular diameter designed for use from the Project has been reported. vertical launch system on some modern 705 ALFA class submarines, and the larger By modifying the CY-2 to carry a Russian Chinese warships resulted in the develop- VYUGA 65 variant sized to match the 650 APR-3E torpedo, China created the CY-3. ment of the CY-5. Based on the CY-4, this mm torpedo tubes. A one-way datalink is understood to allow uses a rocket booster fitted with folding NATO applied the designation SS-N-16 in-flight navigational updates intended to control surfaces. STALLION to two follow-on designs – the refine the position of torpedo release. A MBDA's MILAS is an anti-submarine vari- 37 km range RPK-6 VODOPAD of 533 mm similar development process created an ant of the Otomat Mk2 antiship missile. It diameter, and the 100 km range RPK-7 started life as a Franco-Italian collaborative VETER of 650 mm diameter. These entered programme, but was only adopted by Italy, service in 1981 and 1984 respectively, and which uses the weapon on two DURAND could carry either an ASW torpedo or a

Photo: DRDO DE LA PENNE class destroyers and four nuclear depth bomb. BERGAMINI class (FREMM) anti-submarine An older family of Russian ASW missiles is frigates. MILAS is 6 m long, weighs 800 kg, still in limited service on surface ships such and carried an MU90 torpedo to a range as UDALOY-I class destroyers. Known to of more than 35 km in a flight time of less NATO as the SS-N-14 SILEX, this exists in than three minutes, delivering it to a re- several variants. These missiles carry an lease point that may have been refined via underslung anti-submarine torpedo, or a datalink. a multi-purpose torpedo suitable for use In 2014, Poly Technologies released prelimi- against submarines and surface ships. nary details of an ASW variant of China's WS-3 multiple launch rocket system. This Indian Designs was designed to release a lightweight ASW torpedo at a location determined by On 5 October 2020, India's Defence Re- a suitable "target detection system". At the search and Development Organisation time, the weapon was stated to be as-yet- (DRDO) announced that an indigenously- untested concept, and there has been no developed ASW missile designated Super- subsequent news of the project. sonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo’ From 1964 until 1989, the USN fielded the (SMART) had been successfully tested from Goodyear Aerospace UUM-44 SUBROC a land-based launcher at APJ Abdul Kalam (SUBmarine ROCket). Launched from sub- Island (earlier known as Wheeler Island) off marine's torpedo tubes, this 55 km range the Odisha coast. Designed for launch from missile was designed to release a 250 kT a warship or a truck-based coastal battery, nuclear depth bomb. It was to have been SMART uses a two-way datalink to com- followed by the Boeing UUM-125 SEA municate with its launcher or to an ASW In October 2020, India flight LANCE, but this 185 km range weapon was aircraft, so will be able to receive mid-course tested its new Supersonic cancelled in 1990. flight corrections. Once close the location of Missile Assisted Release of The equivalent Russian weapon is the RPK- the submarine target, it will eject its torpedo Torpedo (SMART) missile from 2 VYUGA (SS-N-15 STARFISH). Carried by payload. Maximum range is expected to be a land-based launcher. submarines and surface ships, this has a around 650 km. L

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 57  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY The British Army's EW Posture

Thomas Withington

The UK MOD has promised to buy new electronic warfare systems for the British Army.

he British Government’s Defence Com- Tmand Paper was published in late March. It outlined the UK Ministry of De- fence’s (MoD’s) procurement priorities to Photo: GDELSs support the government’s Global Britain in a Competitive Age document. The latter was published just a couple of days before. It discussed the country’s foreign policy objectives. The Defence Command Paper gave a glimpse of how the British Army would overhaul its Electronic Warfare (EW) posture. Almost US$32Bn will be spent on new army equipment and capabilities this decade. The paper said that this includes “new EW and cyberspace capabilities.” In excess of US$275M will go towards an “enhanced electronic warfare and signal intelligence capability.” This is alongside an increase in Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) personnel. The British Army’s new AJAX vehicle is a potential platform for the The MoD hopes that deepening the SIGINT force’s new electronic warfare capability. cadre and acquiring new capabilities will mean “a significant uplift in (the army’s) JACKAL wheeled reconnaissance vehicles. SOOTHSAYER electronic warfighting capability.” This unit chiefly provides EW support to the EW is the preserve of the army’s 6th (UK) army’s 16th Air Assault Brigade. Armoured The army has had an unhappy history of Division; it is tasked with cyber, EW and manoeuvre EW is the preserve of 237 Sig- trying to update its EW equipment. Much information operations in peace, war and nal Squadron. It uses GKN SANKEY FV-439 of the kit is long in the tooth and needs all in between. The division is a relatively tracked electronic warfare vehicles and pro- replacing. Lockheed Martin was contract- new addition to the army’s order-of-battle. vides EW support to the 12th Amoured In- ed by the MoD in 2001 for vehicular and Activated in August 2019, it is headquar- fantry Brigade and 20th Armoured Infantry backpack EW systems to gather SIGINT tered at Upavon in southwest England. The Brigade. Both are part of the British Army’s and perform jamming. This acquisition 6th Division has a dedicated EW unit, the 3rd Division. Finally, 245 Signal Squadron is was called SOOTHSAYER. A light vehicular 14th Signal Regiment, headquartered at St. a light manoeuvre EW formation. The army capability was to use SC Group HMT-600 Athan in southern Wales. says this unit is also developing a tactical COYOTE high mobility vehicle chassis car- The regiment’s mission is to “achieve su- cyber warfare capability. rying palletised SOOTHSAYER equipment. periority in the electromagnetic spectrum The mainstay of these unit’s capabilities is A heavy SOOTHSAYER variant was to have and deliver intelligence to the Army’s land the L3Harris MEWS SMARTSCAN modular used vehicles acquired for the army’s now forces.” Four squadrons comprise the regi- electronic warfare system. Company lit- defunct Future Rapid Effects System (FRES) ment: the 223, 226, 237 and 245 signal erature says this covers a two megahertz/ initiative. By 2004, SOOTHSAYER equip- squadrons. 223 Signal Squadron provides MHz to three gigahertz waveband. This ment was in production. The MoD had EW to UK manoeuvre brigades and is the permits the detection and location of high planned an initial operational capability clearing house for SIGINT gathered by frequency and very/ultra-high frequency for 2006. SOOTHSAYER was to have cost the regiment’s other squadrons. 226 Sig- radios and communications networks. US$403 million in 2020 values, UK docu- nal Squadron provides airborne and light The 14th Signals Regiment also maintains ments noted. However, cost increases of manoeuvre EW units. It has dismounted electronic attack weapons to target these over US$61 million doomed SOOTHSAYER. SIGINT systems and access to three SC radios and networks. This is thought to be It was cancelled in 2009. based on L3Harris’ Broadshield family of Author electronic attack systems. A dismounted LANDSEEKER EW capability is provided using the army’s Thomas Withington is an independ- Roke Resolve backpack EW systems. Open Project LANDSEEKER attempted to re- ent electronic warfare, radar and mili- sources say Resolve covers a 40 MHz to vitalise army EW following SOOTHSAY- tary communications specialist based three gigahertz swathe of spectrum. It can ER’s demise. However, an MoD source in France. be used in both mounted and dismounted revealed to the author that it too was configurations. discontinued in 2018. The programme

58 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY  was to have replaced all 14th Signals Regiment EW kit with a single, scaleable EW architecture. It was to gather SIGINT and perform electronic attack. The latter Photo: UK MoD role was to expand considerably. Along with communications, electronic attack would be directed against “non communications targets”. This seemed to be a reference to LANDSEEKER attacking radars. This would probably include hostile weapons locating radars, ground-based air surveillance radars and fire control radars deployed on the battlefield by red forces. A side effect of this electronic attack function would be to attack airborne surveillance radars and fire control radars on red force aircraft. Electronic attack systems have a line-of-sight range. Ground-based equipment is less inhib- ited when attacking of airborne radars. The Army's forthcoming BOXER armoured vehicle could be a good fit This is because the curvature of the should the UK procure new EW systems akin to the TLS equipping earth is less of an obstruction when jam- the US Army. ming an airborne target. For example, a ground-based electronic attack system CEMA (Cyber and Electromagnetic Activi- Supremacy (E2S) posture. The doctrine with a ten-metre high antenna would ties) approach where “cyber and electro- says that CEMA would work to estab- have a line-of-sight range of circa 13 km magnetic activities are interdependent.” lish “freedom to use parts of cyberspace against a hostile ground-based emitter. Both disciplines will complement one and the electromagnetic environment This same antenna would have a line-of- another: An electronic attack against a flexibly.” Meanwhile it would deny, de- sight range of over 100 km against an hostile communications network could grade or constrain “adversary access” to airborne target flying at 2,000 ft. inject malicious code into red force C2. the spectrum to gain “significant com- This could infect these systems with mis- petitive advantage.” E2S is the sine qua CEMA leading or false information, be used to non for success on the battlefields of to- steal sensitive information or both. Like- morrow. No army can hope to win the A further factor complicated LANDSEEK- wise, a cyberattack against a battlefield battle, and no nation can hope to win ER’s acquisition. The same year it was to air defence network could take red force the war without winning the spectrum. have entered service the MoD published radars offline or substitute targets they E2S depends as much on cyber warfare its Joint Doctrine Note 1/18: Cyber and are detecting with false traffic. as it does on EW. Joint Doctrine Note Electromagnetic Activities. This merged CEMA is at the heart of the British Ar- 1/18 shows the MOD is cognisant of this. EW and cyber activities to embrace a my’s Electromagnetic Superiority and Words have been followed by actions. On 4 June 2020, the British Army activated its 13th Signal Regiment, headquartered in Blandford in southwest England. This unit will specialise in cyber warfare. Photo: US Army Where to Now?

As shown by the 13th Signals Regiment’s activation, the army now has a cyber warfare role. However, LANDSEEKER did not seemingly embrace such a capability. Is it feasible to resuscitate LANDSEEKER but add a ‘bolt on’ cyber warfare tools? Instead, should the MoD favour of a new CEMA architecture? This is the MoD’s third attempt to overhaul the army’s EW capabilities in two decades. It cannot afford to fail. Mercury Electronic Warfare said in a written statement that the MoD should think about several factors as it considers the new army EW materiel. Firstly, current The US Army’s TLS, a prototype of which is shown here, is one possible systems have a relatively short range. answer to the British Army’s cyber and EW needs. They are sufficient only to intercept emis-

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 59  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY

acquiring the Terrestrial Layered System (TLS). One TLS variant will be mounted on General Dynamics M1133 STRYKER Photo: UK Mod AFVs. The TLS will be deployed with Bri- gade Combat Teams (BCTs). It will provide electronic and cyber warfare to the manoeuvre force. The army is expected to receive circa 30 vehicles by 2030. The UK enjoys a good defence relationship with the US. Might the MoD be able to procure the TLS for the army? The large number of platforms equipping the BCTs may let the UK benefit from economies of scale. Alternatively, the MoD could look to Eu- ropean allies. The Armée de Terre (French Army) will need to buy new EW systems to support its manoeuvre force. These will replace legacy EW systems equipping its Renault Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé (Ar- moured Vanguard Vehicle). This procurement could also take place in the coming decade. Building on earlier defence collaborations, would it not make sense for the UK to collaborate with France on new land force EW systems? This would spread the cost and afford the UK important industrial and scientific participation. The latter would diminish if the TLS was purchased from the United States. Light EW to support British Army airborne units is provided by 226 Sig- The most expensive option would be nal Squadron which uses SC JACKAL vehicles. to realise the army’s requirement indigenously. The Defence Command Paper sions at line-of-sight ranges of circa 15km with appropriate approvals, which will talks of the army having US$275M for (nine miles). This could be alleviated using become of greater utility as militaries be- new EW systems. This is significantly be- Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle (UAV) SIGINT come more technology-dependent,” the low SOOTHSAYER’s eventual US$403M collection. The army’s Thales WK-450 MoD source added. price tag. Developing the capability at WATCHKEEPER UAVs would be a suitable Finally, dedicated vehicles to accompany home would safeguard and develop do- platform. In 2017, QinetiQ’s AS3 COMINT the manoeuvre force are essential. Al- mestic EW expertise. However, it would system was cleared for carriage onboard though the SC JACKAL and FV-439 plat- do so almost certainly at a cost eclipsing the aircraft. Whether the AS3 is now forms offer some capability, the latter is the US$275M available. A bilateral de- routinely used by the WK-450 has not ageing. Whether the former could ad- velopment with an ally could be the best been revealed. Nonetheless, this would equately support armoured manoeuvre option. Local skills and expertise would provide the over-the-horizon COMINT is debatable. be nurtured but the result would be af- capability the army needs. One solution could be to use the original fordable. Mercury’s statement continues that the LANDSEEKER requirement as the base- The MoD source revealed that the army’s army cannot collect electronic intelli- line for the army’s new EW capability, future EW capabilities are in the “nascent gence on hostile radars. LANDSEEKER Mercury argues. This could have a cyber planning stages and details continue to was to have had this attribute. Hopefully, warfare tools folded in to reflect CEMA be worked through.” A tentative deliv- the MoD will retain this requirement for doctrine. The new capability could be ery schedule between 2024 and 2027 is the army’s new EW systems. Likewise, mounted on new armoured vehicles en- planned, the source added. Legacy sys- LANDSEEKER was to have been capable tering service. One possibility includes a tems will be phased out as the new ones of electronic attack. The MoD source CEMA version of the army’s new Gen- are phased in. By 2027, the former are stated that electronic attack “has been a eral Dynamics AJAX armoured infantry expected to be out of service. core offensive activity the army has held fighting vehicles. Another is to use the The army faces security challenges like a in its arsenal for some time.” However, forthcoming BOXER wheeled Armoured strategically resurgent Russia modernis- this is partially disputed by Mercury’s Fighting Vehicles (AFVs). ing her army’s battle management, C2 statement which said this capability in its and communications. The British Army current guise is “weak to non-existent.” Options? needs new EW systems to hold these at Nonetheless, electronic attack does seem risk in any future war. Existing equipment front and centre of the army’s future EW The army has three choices: It could pur- has done good work, but is long in the posture: “The ability to disrupt or deny chase a system off-the-shelf from an ally. tooth. Now is the time to make good adversarial radio frequency transmissions It could build a system indigenously, or a commitment already postponed too is a valued and legal targeting activity, do so collaboratively. The US Army is many times. L

60 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY  Body Armour Requirements: Fit for Purpose

Tim Guest

Body armour is an essential piece of equipment for the modern security operative in many of today’s militaries, police and security forces. While various body armour requirement standards for police and militaries exist from country to country, the US NIJ standard, often relied on by non-US security and defence forces, is about to see latest major revisions introduced this summer, which will, potentially, be of benefit to body armour users and procurement offices across NATO.

or most militaries, police and security Fforces around the world, body armour is now a standard item of kit, not only for specialist units, but also for the average soldier and police officer. There are Photo: Rheinmetall several standards relating to body armour: UK Home Office Scientific Development Branch (HOSDB - ‘Home Office Body Ar- mour Standard 2017 provides guidance on the minimum performance requirements and test methods for body armour intended for UK law enforcement agencies’); the US National Institute of Justice (NIJ); European VPAM; and German Police Technische Richtlinie (TR) Ballistische Schut- zwesten. However, the HOSDB and the NIJ are the two standards most widely used in the world. That said, on the eve of its long-awaited re- vision this summer, setting out much more detailed body armour requirements, it is the new revised NIJ standard - NIJ 0101.07 For most militaries, police and security forces around the world, body - on which this article focuses, along with armour is now a standard item of kit. Pictured: The German Army’s discussion on threat considerations, body Gladius soldier system; its body armour protection against bullet, armour systems already in service, and cer- shrapnel and blast injuries can be increased by various protection tain recent procurements. layers adding up to Class IV protection.

Meeting Stringent constantly evolving in order to keep up with been procured. Threats faced by police and Requirements changing operational demands. Weight military forces across the globe do, how- reduction and improved overall ergonom- ever, vary and evaluating the suitability of Body armour is intended to reduce fatalities ics are important aspects of that evolution a body armour system for a particular use is in military and policing scenarios. That’s why and crucial if a body armour system is to complex. For many police, military users and materials and systems used in the armour’s be usable; these factors continue to drive armour manufacturers, testing and evalua- construct must not only provide protection manufacturers to seek out lighter and more tion has, for a long time, often been based from ballistic impact, but also must not im- efficient materials, so product weight is re- on the US National Institute of Justice (NIJ) pede, through weight or design, an opera- duced and users can operate ever more ef- testing standard, NIJ Standard 0101.06, pre- tive’s ability to carry out a task, more than fectively. However, all that comes at a price dominantly suited to US police enforcement is absolutely necessary. New materials are and system costs will, forever, be a factor for agencies and the ballistic threats they face. procurement departments. That said, when That is not to suggest the NIJ standards are Author body armour is used in a particular scenario inappropriate for military purposes, for as it absolutely needs to be up to the task in we all know the kinds of firepower US law Tim Guest is a freelance journalist, hand; it needs to have been tested to a level enforcement faces on a daily basis is not in- UK Correspondent for ESD and for- that ensures its ability to withstand ballistic substantial. However, its scope has simply mer officer in the UK Royal Artillery. impacts from the typical threat expected in not been wide enough, nor has it addressed the operational scenarios for which it has many of the weapons encountered in ac-

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 61  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY

couldn’t achieve that, so it’s essential the threat is set appropriately,” Heaward said, adding, anecdotally, that some navies, have even allowed the .44 Magnum to be used as part of their threat profile to determine required protection, simply because it was on the previous NIJ spec when their procurement departments filled out the NIJ 0101.06 test form. “Considering that no pirate or revolutionary guard in a RIB ever tried to board a vessel with a Magnum, this is a little absurd,” Photo: Portland Police, Lesley McLachlan on Unsplash he said, “for them it’s a 9mm, or AK-47. Some users have even considered a Level 3 plate as good enough to stop an AK round, but it’s not. An AK mild steel core (MSC) round will go straight through some Level 3 armour plate; as polyethylene development US NIJ Standard 0101.06 has been predominantly suited to US police continues to make progress, [Body armour enforcement agencies and the ballistic threats they face, though used is generally made from a specific kind of by many other agencies around the world. polyethylene, called Ultra-High-Molecular- Weight Polyethylene. Ed], a ceramic front would be the better option. The AK-47 is the most widespread threat facing western militaries and its MSC penetrator is nasty. Photo: UK MoD For body armour to resist it, a ceramic front is what’s required.” It is worth noting here that it is the core of the bullet that controls its penetration behaviour, not the calibre. Heaward underlined an apparent lack of understanding on the part of many procurement teams as to the operational threats their forces actually face and why it is so important for them to be fully aware of those threats. “The troops on the ground will, effectively, be protecting the sovereign borders of a particular procurement office, whether it is the UK, the US, or another NA- TO nation. Understanding the operational threats their own troops face is an absolute necessity and applying that knowledge to procuring the right armour is paramount.” Hard and soft armour systems need to work for the individual, integrat- The good news is that a new NIJ standard, ing efficiently with modular, lightweight, load-carrying equipment. ‘NIJ Standard 0101.07 Ballistic Resistance VIRTUS, the British Army’s latest body armour system is said by the UK of Body Armour’ is slated for introduction MoD to be lighter with a slimmer profile than the previous system and by the middle of this year and draws on the allegedly ‘moves with the body more easily’. more than ten years of experience under the previous standard. tual military operations. That means it really tary users have requested a previous NIJ has not been the suitable measure of body 0101.06 certificate to qualify their body A Small Taster armour that some military procurement of- armour, including some European armies, of a New Standard fices have wanted it, and relied on it, to be. it will have been ‘wholly inadequate’ for That is, not until now – on the eve of NIJ troops operating against threats in places For many, it will come as a great relief that 0101.07 being introduced. like Afghanistan. He stressed that when NIJ Standard 0101.07 raises the bar, not testing and certifying a piece of body, the only regarding test methods for armour, “What is Your Threat?” one question that must always be asked is, but also its more exacting performance ‘what is your threat?’ requirements, i.e. the ballistic resistance Before looking at NIJ 0101.07 in more “In Afghanistan, the ultimate threat for such equipment must have to protect detail, expert insights are in order, for militaries has been the Dragunov semi- the torso against both handgun and rifle which ESD turned to someone very fa- automatic sniper rifle and its various fire. In addition, threat level revisions have miliar with NIJ Standards and ‘all things’ 7.62×54mmR rounds. Body armour oper- been made to clarify the relevance of the body armour, Steve Heaword, Technical ating here needs to be able to stop three new NIJ standard to ‘all’ users, including Director at specialist equipment maker, rounds at point blank range. However, military end users, which is a major leap Crib Gogh. He said that while many mili- an NIJ (previous standard) Level 4 plate forward.

62 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 The new standard categorises body armour protection requirements into five levels: protection levels NIJ HG1 and NIJ HG2 represent handgun (HG) threats more closely than the Level II and Level IIIA designations previously used in the earlier standard. Also, the soft armour protection, Level IIA threat category relevant to low velocity HG rounds has been removed; what the new standard requires is that conditioned armour panels be shot at, at the very same velocity required of non- conditioned armour, which will help ensure

all body armour performs at a high level in Photo: UK MoD any environment and situation. A special set VIRTUS is due to have a mid-life refresh in the next 18-24 months, which, of test requirements have also been intro- it is hoped, will make good on some of the end-user issues that have duced specifically for shaped or female body caused concern. armour. When it comes to rifle (RF) protection levels, there are many differences and changes. For example, new test rounds and a totally new threat level have been introduced. These new RF1 and RF3 designations have Photo: French MoD been determined to represent threats much more closely than the previous Levels III and IV, which they replace. In addition, a completely new threat level is RF2, which accounts for an intermediate RF threat and is aimed at protecting against 5.56x45mm NATO SS109/US M855, 62g, lead-core rounds with steel penetrator fired at 3,115 ft/s (950m/s). In developing the new standard’s requirements, the NIJ and collaborators such as the US military, faced two options in their aim to incrementally improve the protec-

The French FELIN system; version V1.3 for the French Army includes a new load carrying structure plus lighter and more modular armour. On the left-hand combatant’s leg, a new, lighter, more modular load- Photo: French MoD carriage and protection structure improves mobility and reduces the soldier’s visual signature.

tion afforded by body armour. They could harmonize laboratory test procedures and retain earlier protection levels and reduce practices for both law enforcement and weight to provide increased user comfort; military ballistic-resistant armor and other or new levels of protection could be intro- ballistic-resistant equipment, while allow- duced with an additional, though minimal, ing those end-user communities ultimate weight increase. For the new standard, it control over product specifications, such was decided that protection against a wid- as the specific threats against which their er range of threat ammunition was needed equipment must protect.” and so the increased-weight option was elected as that best to help underpin NIJ Some Systems, Procurements, Standard 0101.07. Some Thoughts An extract from the US NIJ on the new standard reads: “Unlike the current and previous The UK’s previous system, Osprey assault versions of the NIJ body armor standard… body armour, is still held in store and used NIJ Standard 0101.07 will incorporate…a in training, but has been replaced by the suite of ASTM [formerly American Society VIRTUS Scaleable Tactical Vest (STV), which for Testing and Materials. ed] standard test has been designed to increase agility and FELIN’s ballistic jacket accommo- methods and practices… Incorporation of make it easier to carry heavy kit. Some cur- dates flexible ballistic plates, relevant ASTM standards…into NIJ stand- rent, active-service users, however, have hard ballistic plates and can fit ards and US Army requirements and test- expressed their misgivings to ESD as re- an electronic jacket. ing documents affords the opportunity to cently as last month about how uncomfort-

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able the system is to use, adding to years of already very mixed reviews. On the official MoD side, VIRTUS is said to use latest materials, offer the same protection as Osprey, though is significantly lighter and has a slimmer profile. First iterations were 4.7 kg lighter than Osprey; latest plate technologies have made the most recent version lighter still. The amount of protection can be scaled up or down to match threats by adding or removing soft armour

pads and hard ballistic plates. An integral Photo: French FELIN system, MoD spine, or 'dynamic weight distribution' sys- Weight reduction and improved overall ergonomics are important tem, is linked to the user’s waist belt and aspects of body armour evolution and crucial if a system is to be usable. helps spread the load of the body armour, Bergen or daysack, across the user’s back, In jungle trials, VIRTUS and its predecessor, some of the end-user issues that are com- shoulders and hips. The system also em- Osprey, both produced very high thermal plained about. The New Plate programme ploys a new quick-release mechanism – a burn, though Osprey performed marginally is still under evaluation at this time. pin positioned on the chest that when better, although the systems’ velcro started For the French, the FELIN individual soldier pulled releases the entire body kit. It also to fall apart and fail, showing a lack of suit- combat system includes its body armour comes in seven different sizes for a tailored ability for such scenarios. And as no other system developed by Safran Electronics fit; chest size and torso length instead of country in the world has bought VIRTUS and Defence, and is said to be one of the height are now used for measuring. beyond the UK, its procurement has not more advanced infantry combat systems. Industry observers and experts, however, been the success UK MoD has claimed it Its V1.3 version for the French Army in- paint a different picture; out of four compa- to be. That said, according to Crib Gogh’s cludes a new load carrying structure plus nies which passed the Invitation to Tender, Steve Heaward again, VIRTUS is due to lighter and more modular armour. The bal- some with better systems failed because, have a mid-life refresh in the next 18-24 listic jacket accommodates flexible ballistic “European regulations had to be followed”. months. This is hoped to make good on plates, hard ballistic plates and can fit an

Proposed NIJ handgun (HG) threat levels and associated test ammunition

Source: NIJ NIJ HG Threat Level Test Threat Ammunition Manufacturer & Model ID Reference Velocity NIJ HG1 9mm Luger full metal jacketed (FMJ) round nose Remington #23558 1305 ft/s (398 m/s) (Formerly NIJ 0101.06 (RN) 124 grain Level II) .357 Mag jacketed soft point (JSP) 158 grain Remington #22847 1430 ft/s (436 m/s) NIJ HG2 9mm Luger FMJ RN 124 grain Remington #23558 1470 ft/s (448 m/s) (Formerly NIJ 0101.06 Level IIIA) .44 MAG jacketed hollow point (JHP) 240 grain Speer #4453 or #4736 1430 ft/s (436 m/s)

Proposed NIJ rifle (RF) threat levels and associated test ammunition. NIJ RF Threat Level Test Threat Ammunition Manufacturer & Model ID Reference Velocity NIJ RF1 7.62x51mm M80 Ball NATO FMJ steel jacketed US military supply or rounds 2780 ft/s (847 m/s) (Enhanced version of spire point boat tail (BT) 149 +0/-3 grain meeting NATO specifications NIJ 0101.06 Level III) 7.62x39mm surrogate test round 120.5 grain (7.81 g) Specifications provided by NIJ 2380 ft/s (725 m/s)

5.56mm M193 BT 56 +0/-2 grain US military supply or rounds 3250 ft/s (990 m/s) meeting NATO specifications NIJ RF2 (Same as NIJ RF1 7.62x51mm M80 Ball NATO FMJ steel jacketed US military supply or rounds 2780 ft/s (847 m/s) plus 5.56 mm M855) spire point BT 149 +0/-3 grain meeting NATO specifications

7.62x39mm surrogate test round 120.5 grain (7.81 g) Specifications provided by NIJ 2380 ft/s (725 m/s)

5.56mm M193 BT 56 +0/-2 grain US military supply or rounds 3250 ft/s (990 m/s) meeting NATO specifications

5.56mm M855 BT 61.8 ± 1.5 grain US military supply or rounds 3115 ft/s (950 m/s) meeting NATO specifications NIJ RF3 (Formerly NIJ 30.06 M2 Armor Piercing (AP) FMJ spire point AP US military supply or rounds 2880 ft/s (878 m/s) 0101.06 Level IV) 165.7 +0/-7 grain meeting NATO specifications NIJ nomenclature revisions in the new 07 standard re handgun and rifle threats.

64 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY 

electronic jacket. FELIN also includes bullet- portance as geopolitical tensions rise ever proof knee pads. More than 20,000 units higher in the Far East. He says of recent of the FELIN system have been delivered to jungle Warfare trials in Malaysia that all the the French military and deployed in main- body armour systems using velcro ‘were land France and on overseas operations. falling apart and some failed to complete The ballistic vest provides a class IV protec- the course at all, including some from US tion on the front with splinter guard protec- and UK Tier-1 manufacturers. “As soon as tion also provided at points of articulation algae or dirt build up in the velcro it loses at the knees, elbows and shoulders. its tenacity. In jungle trials plates were drop- At the start of last year, just before Covid ping out of systems that used velcro with took hold across Europe, the Estonian Cen- troops constantly taking them off to read- tre for Defence Investment (RKIK) issued a just them.” Though one of the smaller UK €30M international tender for the procure- manufacturers of body armour – carriage ment and acquisition of ballistic protec- system and armour plate – Crib Gogh’s sys- tion in the form of a tactical body armour tem survived the jungle trials; it doesn’t use system. A statement detailed the defence Velcro, but rather a buckle system.

Photo: Honeywell forces were looking for a lightweight three- Two companies which collaborate closely in-one system comprising ballistic plates with Crib Gogh are Point Blank, and the Body armour technologies are in a that would integrate with bulletproof vest, UK’s Kashket Tactical Group (KTG). The lat- constant state of development. splinterproof vest, and a tactical vest, with ter, which offers hard armour plate and soft Pictured, Honeywell’s SpectraSh- fulfilment slated over the next seven years. armour plate and has a pedigree spanning ield and GoldShield Body Armour Then, in mid-January of this year, the Min- hundreds of years, has recently developed a use high-performance composites ister of Defence for Ukraine, Andrii Taran, floatation body armour system, and together providing protection against NIJ.06 announced the country had developed a with Crib Gogh are working on this system levels I,II-A, II, III-A, and III threats; body armour system requirement in line with for maritime interdiction scenarios. “We are the armour is specially designed for NATO standards. He said the MoD of Ukraine collaborating on a ceramic-fronted plate that comfort and flexibility and is used had developed its own technical specification floats,” Heaward said, “This is a real break- not only by defence, SF and security for “Modular body armour” as prior to that, through in body armour developments. agencies in North America, but also the ‘armed forces and military formations in Kashket’s Level 4 plate meets previous NIJ by the likes of Australian SF, Royal Ukraine purchased bulletproof vests on com- standards, weighs 2.1 kg and with a ceramic Netherlands Army, Indian Border mercial terms’. Taran said the technical speci- front that provides full positive buoyancy ena- Security Force, Israeli MoD, and the fication applies the requirements of state and bles the wearer to float. Soldiers can actually Spanish MoD, to name but a few. military standards. Interestingly, and high- swim with the plates on and can even jump lighting what has been said above in relation into a body of water wearing around 10 kg of to NIJ standards, Taran said the Ukraine had kit, and resurface without a life preserver. It relied on the earlier NIJ standard in its pro- marks a real operational step change.” cesses, “In addition, the US Army Standard Final thoughts stem from Crib Gogh’s work

Photo: Honeywell (NIJ Standard-0101.06) is used to verify the with the UK’s Royal College of Physicians conformity of the bulletproof vest. In addi- on ‘behind-the-plate trauma reduction’, in tion, the Ministry of Defence has provided all which the company is at the forefront of the necessary tests and strict conditions for research. “How a system dissipates the en- suppliers. According to this documentation, ergy of a projectile strike behind the plate in 2021, the purchase of bulletproof vests is critical, because the ‘energy dump’ will for the needs of the armed forces of Ukraine still cause trauma problems no matter how will be carried out. This is a general military good the plate is,” Heaward said, “the en- body armour designed for daily combat mis- ergy has to go somewhere and the force sions. Its main consumer is the land forces. To can still be enough to break a bone, or tear perform tasks by special forces or paratroop- the aorta from the heart, if it hits the plate ers in 2021, we will develop a lightweight in the right place.” model.” The new ‘Modular body armour’ is Sombre words to send a chill down the referenced as: TS A01XJ.29423-287: 2020 spine of those relying on body armour for (01), with the statement adding that it has their protection and for which comfort will ‘a modular structure and consists of a basic only be afforded in the knowledge that a structure, which may have an additional set wearer’s body armour has met the most of protective elements’. stringent, up-to-date standards. Procure- For many police, military users ment departments, please take note. L and armour manufacturers, test- Final Food for Tough, ing and evaluation has often been Critical Consideration Acknowledgement: based on the US NIJ Standard The author expresses his appreciation to jun- 0101.06. SpectraShield and Gold- Heavily involved in jungle warfare training, gle warfare expert, Steve Heaword, who is Shield Body Armour, for example, Crib Gogh’s Steve Heaward is clear about also an advisor to the UK MoD and Techni- have met this standard’s ‘effec- how different body armour systems have cal Director at specialist equipment maker, tiveness following water submer- performed under such conditions and Crib Gogh, for his insights and input to this sion’ requirements. how such applications are of critical im- article.

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 65  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY Containers for Logistic Support

Christopher F. Foss

As well as revolutionising the transportation of civilian cargo all over the world, containers and their associated load handing systems (LHS) have also revolutionised the handing of supplies for military operations.

his has enabled essential supplies and Tother material to be rapidly deployed when and where it is needed without any going missing in transit. Once the containers or flatrack have been delivered

to their destination, the vehicle can be Photo: THIELMANN WEW deployed for other duties. Ammunition and food is typically loaded onto pallets which can then be unloaded from the container by mechanical handing equipment (MHE) such as a fork lift truck. In addition to being used to transport cargo, dedicated containers are also used for a variety of more specialised military applications including use as weapon platforms. They are also used in a modified form for other roles such as command post, communications centre, control- ling unmanned aerial vehicles such as the REAPER MQ-9, medical support, messing The German Thielmann WEW HIPPO potable water tank has been built in and workshops to name but a few. large numbers for many users including the US Army. Although sometimes described as a container, many of these are technically shel- ters with sides than can be extended to provide greater internal volume, with some being shielded against electro-magnetic pulse (EMP) attack and fitted with their

own power supply and air conditioning Photo: THIELMANN WEW system to allow them to operate in a stand- alone configuration.

Standard Containers

The standard ISO container is 20x8x8 ft., although there are smaller ones, and is typically carried on the rear of an 8x8 or 8x6 platform fitted with a LHS that can rapidly unload and deploy the sealed container Mercedes-Benz Actros fitted protected cab and with mechanical handing where it is required. In addition to trans- unit unloading a Thielmann WEW fuel dispensing unit at the rear and porting containers, the LHS and flatrack ready for use

Author is also used to transport a wide range of (projectiles, charges and fuses) which are other specialised military equipment such then loaded into the ARCHERS automatic Christopher F. Foss has been writing as bridging boats, folding bridges and spe- loader. on armoured fighting vehicles and cialised engineer equipment. Containers artillery systems since 1970. He has are also used to carry ammunition which Thielmann WEW also lectured on these subjects in many can then be loaded into a self-propelled countries as well as chairing conferences (SP) artillery system. There are also contractors which supply all over the world. He has also driven The Swedish BAE Systems Bofors ARCHER more specialised containers for the trans- over 50 tracked and wheeled AFVs. 155 mm (6x6) SP is supported by an 8x8 port water or fuel, with a good example truck carrying a container of ammunition being the German company of Thielmann

66 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY 

WEW who since 1998 have supplied more than 3,000 liquid containers to some 13 different governments, with the largest customer being the US Army. The latest US Army contract was worth US$27.5M and was placed in mid-2018 and covered the supply of 241 HIPPO Photo: Iveco Defence Vehicles water containers. Production was rapidly ramped up to one unit a day, with deliveries completed in under a year. This water container has a capacity of 7,700 litres (2,000 US gallons) and is a self-con- tained drop-and-go drinkable water storage and distribution system fitted within a standard 20 ft. ISO frame and is fully compatible with LHS. It has integrated heating, pumping and diesel engines systems and can pump 125 gallons a minute. Prior to this contract, the company was part of a team that supplied 1,400 liquid The German Army has recently ordered these Iveco Defence Vehicles containers to the US Army between 2003 TRAKKER fitted with a protected cab and LHS to carry a container. and 2013. Thielmann WEW has also supplied its generating set and also features inte- requirement, the French Direction Gener- Deployable Fuel and Distribution Capac- grated transfer pumping and tank self- ale de l’Armament (DGA) awarded the con- ity (DFDC) tank container to a number loading/unloading capability. The two 12 tract to SOFRAME in late 2010 and in the of customers including Belgium Sweden m long dispensing hose reels, each with end, three contracts were placed with final and Luxembourg. This is also integrated a nozzle, can dispense lower flow rates deliveries being made in late 2017. into a standard 20 ft. ISO container frame of 50 or 120 litres a minute directly into This is based on an Iveco Defence Vehicles and compatible with standard military vehicles or containers. ASTRA 8x8 truck with Marrel supplying its LHS including the STANAG 2413 United AMPLIROLL hook lift system. Iveco Defence States (US) Palletised Load System (PLS), AMPLIROLL and SOFRAME Vehicles supplied the 8x8 truck chassis and and the United Kingdom (UK) Demount- cab to SOFRAME who fitted the LHS as able Rack Off-loading and Pick-up System The French company of Marrel has supplied well as supplying the specialist bodies. The (DROPS), and other forklift and LHS logis- its AMPLIROLL hook lift system to a num- contract covered the Porteur Polyvalent Lo- tic systems. According to the contractor, ber of countries including the French Army gistique (PPLOG) fitted with the LHS, trail- it can dispense 280/300 litres of fuel per based on a Renault Trucks Defense (today ers and a PPL de Depannage (PPLD) (recov- minute at a maximum flow rate via a 3 Arquus) to meet their requirement for a ery) vehicle with some of these being fitted inch NATO standard coupling. It is fitted Vehicule de Transport Logistique (VTL) re- with a protected cab with others being with overfill protection and level sensors, quirement. Following a competition for the fitted with a normal cab or a cab fitted for a 6 kVA, 400/230 V, 50 Hz electric power follow-on Porteur Polyvalent Terrestre (PPT) but not with an applique armour package.

The TRAKKER

Photo: IDV The German Army uses a variety of trucks fitted with a LHS, with the most recent contract being placed with Iveco Defence Ve- hicles of Italy covering a frame contract for the supply of up to 1,048 TRAKKER trucks to be delivered from 2021 through to 2028. The first part covers the supply of 224 8x8 from their militarised TRAKKER range which will be supplied in five configurations prepared for 20x8x8 ISO container transport. Some will have hydraulic cranes and winch- es and have a protected cab. Krauss-Maffei have confirmed that they are to supply the armour-protected cabs for the first batch of 224 TRAKKER with final deliveries in 2024.

The Hiab Multilift

The market leader for LHS is the Swed- An Iveco Defence Vehicles ASTRA 8x8 truck selected by the French DGA ish company of Hiab (Multilift) who have for the PPT requirement supplied over 24,000 systems to more

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than 33 armed forces all over the world with a typical example being the United Kingdom. The British Army took delivery Photo: RMMV of over 1,500 Leyland DAF DROPS between 1989 and 1994 and small numbers of these were exported. This is an 8x6 platform fitted with a forward control cab on the rear of which is fitted a Hiab Mark 4 LHS.

The EPLS System

These have already started to be replaced by 382 of the Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) HX 8x8 trucks fitted with what the UK calls the En- hanced Pallet Loading System (EPLS) RMMV 8x8 of the British Army carrying a standard 20x8x8 ft ISO container supplied under a £53M contract award- with the truck fitted with protected cab which is also provided with bar/ ed by the UK Defence Equipment & Sup- slat amour, electronic devices to counter IED and roof mounted protected port organisation late in 2018. These HX weapon station 8x8 trucks are fitted with the standard fully enclosed and air-conditioned forward control cab with provision for an applique armour kit. These latest upgraded vehicles are designated the EPLS Mk 3 and are replacing the original Leyland DAF 8x6 DROPS

Photo: MAN Truck & Bus Medium Mobility Load Carrier (MMLC) fitted with a Mk 4 handing system with a nominal load of 16.5 tonnes or a 20 ft. ISO container system. Under Urgent Operational Requirement (UOR) funding, 177 HX77 8x8 were upgraded and as well as the applique armour these had bar/slat armour, a roof-mounted protected weapon station, electronic devices to counter improvised explosive devices and a Hiab/Multilift LHS designated EPLS Mk 1 and Mk 2.

The Oshkosh PLS

RMMV HX 8x8 of the British Army upgraded to the latest Enhanced Following a competition, the US Army Pallet Loading System Mk 3 configuration carrying a standard 20x8x8 ft selected the Oshkosh (10x10) PLS which ISO container. The forward control cab is fitted with mounting points consists of the truck, a trailer and the flat for applique armour. racks with production commencing in 1992 with flat racks and trailers being manufactured under licence from SO- FRAME of France. In addition to being fitted with the LHS, some are also fitted with a material handling crane between the LHS hook and the power pack while Photo: Oshkosh Defense others are fitted with a container handling unit (CHU). The US Marine Corps (USMC) adopted the Oshkosh MK48 series Logistic Vehicle System (LVS) with the some of the MK14 logistic platform truck subsequently being fitted with a MK18A1 module which has the same PLS as the US Army. This was followed by the Oshkosh Logistic Ve- hicle System Replacement (LVSR) which US Army Oshkosh Palletised Loading System fitted with LHS and towing some of these fitted with the same LHS a trailer with a container after it has been off loaded from a ship as fitted to the earlier LVS. L

68 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 Viewpoint from New Delhi

India Fights a Deadly Photo: Suman Sharma Second COVID-19 Wave India’s Defence Forces Step Up Efforts

Suman Sharma

Aimed at empowering local formation commanders in the fight ments. Presently, 39 CBs are maintaining 40 general hospitals with against the deadly second COVID-19 wave, India’s Ministry of De- 1,240 beds. Oxygen support has been made available in 37 CBs fence (MOD) has invoked special provisions and granted emergency with a present stock of 658 cylinders. Rapid antigen and RT-PCR financial powers to its armed forces to speed up their efforts to assist tests and vaccination centres have also been set up in most of the the civilian authorities. Cantonments. According to official figures, as many as 3,214,706 Indians have Logistics support provided by the Indian Armed Forces in transport- lost their lives in the second wave. New Delhi has been offered help ing oxygen containers from abroad, as well as distributing it domesti- from 40 countries. The Indian Armed Forces have mobilised their cally, has been lauded by the civilian population. Transport aircraft bases and units, deployed warships to bring home relief material and of the IAF (Indian Air Force) have flown 28 sorties from Singapore, rendered help to civilians. Bangkok, Dubai, airlifting 47 oxygen containers with 830 MT capac- Under these special powers, Vice Chiefs of the Armed Forces, in- ity, and 158 domestic sorties airlifting 109 containers with 2,271 MT cluding the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the CISC (Chair- capacity. man Chiefs of Staff Committee) and GoC-in-Cs (General Officer As Covid-19 surges, three naval hospitals under the Indian Navy’s Commanding-in-Chiefs) and equivalents of all three services have WNC (Western Naval Command) have been kept ready for use by been given full powers, whereas Corps Commanders and Area the civil administration. The Indian Navy has dispatched a 57-mem- Commanders have been delegated powers up to US$68,493 and ber naval medical team comprising four doctors, seven nurses, 26 Division Commanders, Sub Area Commanders and equivalents have paramedics and 20 supporting staff to be deployed at the 'PM Cares been delegated powers up to US$27,397 for expenditure. Covid Hospital', a special hospital set up to manage the crisis. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has reiterated that the civilian popu- On the Eastern seaboard, Indian Naval Ship AIRAVAT, has brought lation has a great deal of trust in the Indian Armed Forces and looks home more than 3,600 oxygen cylinders, eight 27-tonne oxygen up to them in times of crisis. tanks, 10,000 rapid antigen detection kits, and seven concentrators Retired Major General BK Sharma says, “Emergency powers are del- from Singapore. Ships from the Indian Navy’s Kochi-based Southern egated in case of a dire emergency and have rightly been invoked at Command are in the Persian Gulf to bring three liquid oxygen filled the right time. We are in a critical national emergency. In fact, military cryogenic containers. resources should be employed in creating makeshift hospitals and in On the Western seaboard, Indian Navy ships have set sail to bring rendering other medical aid.” home two 27-tonne liquid oxygen tanks from Bahrain and Kuwait. Nearly 600 doctors who retired from the armed forces in the last The Indian Army has set up Covid facilities and placed them on a war few years have been recalled to help in the present crisis. The Indian footing to provide extensive medical assistance to veterans and their Navy has deployed 200 Battle Field Nursing Assistants across India, dependents. One such facility has been created at the Base Hospital while 300 NCC (National Cadet Corps) Cadets have been placed on Delhi Cantonment where the entire hospital has been converted into Covid-related duty. a Covid hospital with comprehensive arrangements. ICU expansion Maj Gen Sharma adds, “The Government needs to work on a war- will ensure 900 oxygenated beds by June 2021. footing to overcome its capacity gaps and devise a National Action India’s premier defence research agency DRDO (Defence Research Plan. To this end, they could utilise the services of veterans, particu- and Development Organisation), is setting up five medical oxygen larly from the medical fraternity.” plants in and around Delhi. The medical oxygen plant technology has Cantonment Boards (CB), the civic bodies under the MoD, have been developed by DRDO based on the On‐Board Oxygen Genera- come forward to support the civil administration and State Govern- tion system for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), TEJAS fighter jet.

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 69  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY Land-Based Offensive Hypersonic Weapon Programmes

Sidney E. Dean

Speed and manoeuvrability are essential factors determining whether an airborne weapon can evade sophisticated defence systems. Development of agile hypersonic weapon systems has become a priority for technologically advanced armed forces.

CBM warheads have re-entry speeds ex- Iceeding Mach 20, but ballistic weapons fly on predictable paths, facilitating the calculation of an intercept course. Cruise missiles are highly manoeuvrable, but most Photo: US Air Force current systems fly at subsonic or low supersonic speeds, making them vulnerable to standard air defence missiles and to intercept by combat aircraft. Development of agile hypersonic weapon systems has become a priority for technologically advanced armed forces. With flight speeds in excess of Mach 5 and an unpredictable flight path, offensive weapons of this type will be extremely difficult to intercept. For that reason, offensive hypersonic weapons programmes are being augmented by research on hypersonic interceptor systems. DARPA’s X-51 WAVERIDER hypersonic missile achieved Mach 5.1 flight speed in 2013. The Scramjet (supersonic combustion ramjet) technology Hypersonic Weapon Types being developed could enable hypersonic speed cruise missile flight.

Hypersonic weapons can carry either conventional or nuclear payloads. There are two categories of offensive ground-

launched hypersonic weapons: Hypersonic Photo: Raytheon Cruise Missiles (HCM) and Hypersonic Glide Vehicles (HGV). HCMs differ little from conventional cruise missiles, except that the power plant is capable of sustaining hypersonic speed throughout the duration of the flight. They can be launched from static platforms, vehicles, aircraft or ships. HGVs, by contrast, are launched as payload aboard ballistic missiles. In this initial configuration, they are referred to as hypersonic boost-glide weapons. Eventually, the actual HGVs separate from the missiles and perform as independent re-entry vehi- Concept of the Raytheon-designed scramjet-powered hypersonic cruise cles. They have no independent propulsion missile system, but glide toward their target. Un- like traditional ballistic warheads – but like in the missile’s flight, and at a considerably Power Competition cruise missiles – they are capable of varying lower altitude; the greater portion of the altitude in both directions, and executing HGV’s independent flight occurs within To date, Russia and China enjoy a head frequent and sharp turns to evade coun- the atmosphere. As a result, terrestrial ra- start on operational hypersonic weapons. termeasures or terrain. Compared to the dars detect incoming hypersonic weapons Both nations announced fielding an HGV re-entry vehicles of today’s ballistic missile much later than they would detect war- in 2019. Moscow’s AVANGARD hypersonic systems, the HGV separates much earlier heads on a ballistic trajectory. glide vehicle is deployed as a re-entry vehi-

70 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY  cle on the SS-19 ICBM, and carries a two- megaton warhead. Official Russian government statements purport a speed of Mach 27. China’s HGV is designated the DF-ZF. It Photo: US DoD is deployed on the DF-17 medium-range ballistic missile, although it remains unclear whether the DF-ZF is fully operational or still being evaluated. Western sources es- timate the re-entry vehicle’s velocity in the Mach 5-10 range. Both the Russian and the Chinese HGV are expected to be mounted on additional missile models in the future. The United States and Europe, which only recently re-focussed military research and development to concentrate on great power competition, are playing catch up. While the US, in particular, initiated hypersonic experimentation two decades ago, the running engagements in the Middle East and Afghanistan diverted significant R&D resources to conventional weapons In March 2021, the US Army began delivering the first prototype hyper- programmes. This prevented exploiting sonic equipment to soldiers with the arrival of two training canisters. early progress achieved by the Pentagon’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), which in 2011 managed to fly a technology demonstrator at Mach 20 for three minutes before losing control Photo: US Navy of the aircraft, which crashed into the Pa- cific Ocean. However, agencies on both sides of the Atlantic are now reporting solid progress. The 2019 NATO defence minister summit included hypersonics in its catalogue of seven major emerging and disruptive technologies. While the alliance does not have a centralised hypersonic research programme, Brussels is attempting to coordi- nate research among its member nations, especially in Europe where economies of scale allow smaller nations and industries to contribute key technologies, but only larger nations have the infrastructure for full-scale programmes. Other nations in- Test launch of the LRHW on 19 March 2020 cluding Australia, India and Japan are also engaged in hypersonic weapon research. Common Hypersonic Glide Body (C-HGB) civilian defence industry, while producing The majority of these programmes, how- as a core. This hypersonic glide vehicle will individual components, currently lacks the ever, relate to either air-launched hy- incorporate a conventional warhead, guid- expertise to manage this unique project. personic weapons or to hypersonic air ance system, cabling and thermal protec- The first set of commercially manufactured and missile defence systems. The most tion shield. The C-HGB is conical, and fea- C-HGB prototypes is being built by Dynetics advanced ground-based offensive pro- tures small steering fins near the tail. It is Technical Solutions under a 2019 contract. gramme is underway in the US. painted black to minimise reflection. Lockheed Martin has been selected to in- Each service is devising its own launchers tegrate the glide vehicle, launcher, power Common Hypersonic and operational concepts. The Navy’s Of- system and carrier vehicle into a fully func- Glide Body fice of Strategic Systems Programmes is tional mobile weapon system. Other firms responsible for C-HGB design, while the involved include General Atomics Electrical The United States Navy and Army are col- Army’s Army Rapid Capabilities and Criti- Systems (cable, electrical and mechanical laborating on the development of offensive cal Technologies Office is leading the ac- manufacturing) and Raytheon (flight con- hypersonic weapons (the US Air Force was tual production development portion of trol systems). initially also involved, but in 2020 with- the programme. This modular approach drew from this collaborative effort in order saves time and money, and allows the three US Army LRHW to concentrate on a different hypersonic services to exchange technology in a struc- weapon project). Each service is working on tured environment. The Army variant of the C-HGB is designat- a weapon optimised for its own operating Direct DoD control of the development ed as the Long Range Hypersonic Weapon, environment and tactics, but utilising the programme is also necessary because the or LRHW. Past statements by the Pentagon

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 71  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY

cite a range of circa 2,200 kilometres and a potential speed up to Mach 17. The LRHW will be carried internally in the nose cone of an 88-centimetre diameter, Photo: US Navy solid propellant, medium-range ballistic missile. The same missile will also be used to carry the Navy’s shipboard HGV variant. With the mounted hypersonic glide body, the missile is designated as an All Up Round (AUR). Each AUR will be deployed inside a launch canister. Official US Army photos of prototype launch canisters indicate that the fully configured LRHW will weigh approximately 7,400 kg, not counting the 1,900 kg launch canister. The launch canisters will be integrated onto ten-metre long M870 40-ton trailers which will be configured as Transporter Erector The 19 March 2020 test launch of the LRHW and subsequent impact in Launchers (TEL). The TEL will be towed by the target zone an Oshkosh M983A4 tractor which is already used for the mobile PATRIOT air de- and critical targets within enemy territory, fence system. Each TEL will accommodate the current programmes focus on attack- two missiles. The canisters will be raised ing targets at shorter and intermediate to a vertical position before firing. The US ranges within the context of a regional Army’s standard Advanced Field Artillery conflict. While such weapons could be Tactical Data System (AFATDS), version deployed against any opponent, the op- 7.0 will serve as the fire control system. A erational focus is currently on improving LRHW battery will consist of four TELs, a US capabilities in case of war with China. Photo: US Army generator truck, and a command and con- LRHW will contribute to this goal by pro- The Common trol vehicle designated as the Battery Op- viding the capability of launching swift Hypersonic Glide Body erations Center. strikes over long distances from unpredict- The LRHW development is part of the able locations. As described in the Army’s Testing and Deployment Army’s Long Range Precision Fires pro- FY 2020 budget documents, LRHW will Schedule gramme, which also includes develop- “provide the Army with a prototype stra- ment of extended range tube and rocket tegic attack weapon system to defeat A2/ Testing of the LRHW’s carrier missiles is artillery. While the Pentagon’s initial hy- AD [Anti-Access/Area Denial] capabilities, scheduled to begin this year. A successful personic weapons research in the early suppress adversary Long Range Fires, and test of the C-HGB itself was performed 2000's sought a means to conduct long- engage other high payoff/time sensitive jointly by the Army and Navy on 19 range precision strikes against hardened targets.” March 2020. The hypersonic glide vehicle was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Kauai, Hawaii on a surrogate carrier missile. According to then Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy, the C- HGB prototype flew at hypersonic speed and struck the designated impact point Photo: Lockheed Martin with only a 15 centimetre error. Video of the target impact was released in August. It shows a significant energy release, but the Army has not stated whether the prototype was carrying a warhead or whether the target effect was the result of kinetic energy. The first two LRHW launch canisters were delivered to an undisclosed missile artillery battery on 10 March of this year for evaluation and familiarisation. The canisters are inert, and filled with cement to mimic the precise weight and handling characteristics on a vehicle carrying a full load of missiles. According to an ac- companying news release, “all additional ground equipment for the Long Range Soldiers test the US Army LRHW system in s virtual reality setting prior Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) prototype to fielding. battery" will be delivered to the unit later

72 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY  Credit: Dynetics Photo: General Atomics Electrical Systems

A concept of the US Army’s Hypersonic Glide Vehicle re-entry The HGV concept this year. The first live-round testing by and ship-launched offensive systems are hypersonic threats at very long range.” the operational battery – including the also being developed and/or introduced However, the agency’s funding request fully configured AUR – is planned for fis- by Russia, China and the leading west- for Glide Breaker was cut by two-thirds cal year 2022. ern powers. This includes air-launched for FY 2021, down to only US$3M, imply- Current plans call for fielding the US hypersonic cruise missiles such as the ing doubts regarding the current stage Army’s first complete LRHW battery in AGM-183 Air-Launched Rapid Response of technological maturity. A six-nation 2023. This initial battery will deploy live Weapon (ARRW) which the US Air Force European Union consortium is pursu- missile rounds and will have a limited op- plans to test through FY 2022. ing the TWISTER (Timely Warning and erational capability. It will be assigned to Numerous nations are also pursuing hy- Interception with Space-based TheatER the strategic fires battalion of the Army’s personic missile defence systems as a surveillance) programme, which includes Multidomain Operations Task Force. promising weapon to combat incoming space-based surveillance satellites and While fully operational, the task force’s offensive HGVs. In the US, the Missile ground-based hypersonic missiles capa- prime mission is concept and tactics de- Defense Agency (MDA) issued in 2020 ble of intercepting incoming HGVs and velopment. The transition of LRHW to a a draft request for prototype proposals HCMs. MBDA France is the project’s de- formal acquisition programme of record for a Hypersonic Defense Regional Glide fence industry lead. The system could is scheduled for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 fol- Phase Weapons System interceptor, and become operational by 2030. lowing successful operational evaluation. proposed US$206M to study this tech- Other development projects have both nology in FY 2021. DARPA is also pursu- military and civilian applications. The Ger- The Bigger Picture ing a programme called Glide Breaker, man Aerospace Centre (Deutsches Zen- which “will develop critical component trum für Luft- und Raumfahrt, DLR) has Hypersonic weapons are, of course, not technology to support a lightweight ve- been conducting the SHEFEX (Sharp Edge restricted to land-based systems. Aircraft- hicle designed for precise engagement of Flight Experiment) test programme since 2005, with the primary goal of verifying the potential of a facetted fibre ceramic thermal protection system (TPS) to pro- Photo: DLR tect re-entry vehicles – whether hypersonic weapons or space planes – during high-speed re-entry into the atmosphere. DLR partners in this endeavour include the civilian Norwegian Space Agency, which has enabled test flights from the Andøya Rocket Range launch site, and the Brazil- ian Air Force’s Department of Science and Aerospace Technology, which provides the carrier rockets to launch the SHEFEX test vehicles into space. Some research projects – such as the joint US-Australian HIFiRE and SCIFiRE projects – could eventually lead to the fielding of hypersonic manned or unmanned aircraft as well as cruise missiles; the participating Australian facilities include wind tunnels capable of testing speeds up to Mach 30. While the timing of many projects remains uncertain, there can be no doubt The SHEFEX (Sharp Edge Flight Experiment) test programme conducted that the Russian, Chinese and US ground- by the German Aerospace Center DLR briefly achieved Mach 10-11 flight based offensive programmes constitute in 2012 (SHEFEX 2). The programme centres on technologies applicable the beginning of a wave of hypersonic to hypersonic flight vehicles and spacecraft. military technology. L

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 73  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY Upgrading Medium Armoured Fighting Vehicles

Christopher F. Foss

Several countries are now upgrading their fleets of medium armoured fighting vehicles (AFV), tracked and wheeled, to extend their operational lives and, in some cases to give them enhanced capability.

his upgrade can cover the three key Operational Experience Latest AFV have an electronic architecture Tareas of armour, mobility and fire- (EA) which makes for easier upgrades as power, but in most cases, the upgrade, Operational experience in Afghanistan new sub-systems are developed such as due to cost constraints, does not always and Iraq lead to the deployment of large communications equipment and battle cover all of these elements. In addition to numbers of wheeled Mine Resistance management systems (BMS). upgrading medium AFVs, there is also a Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles for trend to re-role medium AFVs into more enhanced crew survivability but these do Firepower specialised battlefield missions with good not have the same level of cross country examples being the BAE Systems BRAD- mobility as tracked IFV or 8x8 wheeled The firepower of the AFV can be in- LEY M2 series infantry fighting vehicle AFV. Survivability upgrades can cover increased by the development of new am- (IFV) now being re-rolled into the Ar- creased protection against mines and im- munition with enhanced effect or install- moured Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) provised explosive devices (IED) as well as ing a larger calibre weapon, or in some which will replace M113 series based small arms fire, cannon, rocket propelled cases a brand new turret with a stabilised vehicles. grenades (RPG) and anti-tank guided larger calibre weapon coupled to a new weapons (ATGW). This can take the form computerised fire control system (FCS) of passive add on passive armour, bar/slat with day/thermal cameras enabling the type armour packages to neutralise the platform to engage targets under almost fuse of the incoming weapon or explosive all ambient weather conditions. reactive armour (ERA) to provide a higher Most countries award the upgrade con- Photo: BAE Systems level of protection against weapons with a tract to the original equipment supplier high explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warhead. (OEM) due to their deep knowledge of the platform. Some countries allow the Crew Survivability OEM to work with the government es- tablishments while others have a compe- Crew survivability can further be en- tition which could be won by a contractor hanced by installation of spall liners and with no previous experience. crew seats that are not attached to the floor of the platform and are provided with a five-point seat harness. The platform can also be fitted with The US Army BAE Systems electronic devices to counter some types BRADLEY M2A4 A1 IFV with twin of IED. Photo: BAE Systems Raytheon TOW launcher extended For use in high ambient temperatures, on turret side and mounting an air conditioning system can be in- points on applique side armour stalled but the increasing number of for explosive reactive armour other electrically operated systems on the platform can increase power supply Author requirements so the power supply needs to be upgraded. Additional armour pro- Christopher F. Foss has been writing tection enhances the survivability of the on armoured fighting vehicles and platform but does increase weight which artillery systems since 1970. He has can have an effect on the mobility of the also lectured on these subjects in many AFV as its power-to-weight ratio falls as Head-on view of a BAE Systems countries as well as chairing conferences does its acceleration and top speed. The Armoured Multi-Purpose Vehicle all over the world. He has also driven means that the power pack and suspen- showing applique armour and over 50 tracked and wheeled AFVs. sion has to be upgraded in order to retain protected weapon station but mobility. without a weapon installed

74 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 MARDER of two EUROSPIKE LR2 ATGW on the left side of the turret to engage targets at long A good example of a tracked platform be- range. Currently, the PUMA has a 5.56mm ing upgraded is the German Rheinmetall machine gun (MG) but this will be replaced

MARDER IFV which has been continually by a 7.62mm MG5. Photo: Rheinmetall been upgraded since the last one rolled A MARDER 1A5 upgraded with off the production line as far back as 1975 CV90 the Eurospike MELLS ATGW, with through the A1 to A5. The pintle-mounted a missile leaving the pintle- MBDA MILAN ATGW has been replaced The most widely used tracked IFV in Eu- mounted launcher by the locally manufactured EUROSPIKE rope is the Swedish BAE Systems Hägglunds MELLS ATGW which is also deployed by CV90, with first of 509 vehicles being de- the German infantry as a replacement for livered to the Swedish Army in late 1993 the MILAN ATGW. and final deliveries being made late in 2002. In early 2020, Rheinmetall announced that it Since then, 262 have gone through an up- had been awarded a €110M contract to sup- grade which included a new BMS and up- ply the Germany Army with kits to upgrade grades to the FCS. Foto: Christopher F. Foss 71 MARDER 1A5 between 2020 and 2023. Sweden stored 40 CV90 chassis which The company will provide the German Army were originally to be fitted with the with 78 conversion kits plus vehicle tool kits, AMOS twin 120mm mortar system but special tools, logistical support, initial store in the end were fitted with a Bofors twin of spare parts, training and instruction. The 120mm mortar turret, with the com- main part will be a new power pack which plete system being called the MJOLNER will boost the engine power from 600 to (THOR) and with deliveries now com- 750 hp. Other Rheinmetall MARDER 1 up- plete. Export sales have been made to grades include €24M for 170 driver’s night Denmark, Estonia (surplus Netherlands PSM PUMA Armoured Infantry vision devices for delivery between 2021 Army), Finland, Norway, Netherlands Fighting Vehicle showing a and 2022, followed by a € 27M contract for and Switzerland, with all of these cus- remote turret armed with a 30mm 260 new thermal devices for commander tomers having vehicles modified to meet cannon, a coaxial MG and a pod of and gunner with deliveries running from their own specific requirements. Norway two Eurospike MELLS on the side 2022 through to 2023 was the first country to carry out a major upgrade of their CV90 vehicles – a mix- US$500M and covers the mid-life up- ture of 144 upgraded and new vehicles grade of 122 CV9035 with an option on – which includes 16 multirole vehicles an additional 19 vehicles. A new turret called MULTIC. The latter can be rapidly will be fitted which according to BAE Sys- converted for use as an 81mm mortar tems Hagglunds will provide crews with carrier, casualty evacuation, cargo carrier improved protection and ergonomics. or very important person (VIP) transport. Prior to this contract, work was already In February 2021, Norway ordered an- underway to provide the CV9035 with other 20 CV90 combat support vehicles an active protection system (APS), ATGW from BAE Systems Hagglunds under a capability and an Electro-Optical Aiming contract worth more than US$50. System (EOPS) giving additional situation- Photo: BAE Systems Hagglunds More recent upgrade contracts awarded al awareness. The latest upgrade also in- Latest configuration of the to BAE Systems Hagglunds are those cludes future-proofing the electronics by upgraded Royal Netherlands Army for Switzerland the Netherlands which upgrading to the fourth generation digi- CV9035 IFV which has a host of was announced early in 2021. The Neth- tal backbone with embedded and more new features including a brand erlands contract is worth more than robust cybersecurity. new turret and a hard kill defensive aids system

PUMA

The German Army has taken delivery of 350 PSM PUMA Armoured Infantry Fighting Ve- hicles (AIFV) of which 342 were IFV and Photo: Lockheed Martin UK the remaining eight driver training vehicles without the turret. Recently, a follow-on order for an additional 210 has been placed. The first batch of PUMA are already being upgraded under two steps called PUMA S1 and PUMA S2. PUMA S1 covers command and control, situational awareness and an ATGW capability while S2 is a hunter-killer capability. Externally, the most significant A British Army WARRIOR IFV upgraded under the WARRIOR Capability improvement is the installation of a pod Sustainment Programme which was cancelled in March 2021

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 75  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY

Vehicle ,Medical Evacuation Vehicle, Medi- cal Treatment Vehicle And General Purpose. Following trials with 29 prototype AMPVs in early 2019, the US Army awarded BAE Systems a US$128M contract for Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP), followed a second contract worth US$447M in February 2019

Photo: Rheinmetall and which was follow by two contract Two German Army upgraded FUCHS 6x6 deployed to Mali and clearly modifications worth up to US$575M for the showing the additional armour protection and raised plinth on which vehicle. On 31 August 2020, BAE Systems is mounted a FLW 200 RWS delivered the first AMPV to the US Army, which will be deployed by the Armored Bri- WARRIOR RIOR Fightability and Lethality Improvement gade Combat Teams (ABCT). A key feature Programme (WFLIP), WARRIOR Enhanced of the AMPV is that it has built in growth po- The British Army took delivery of 789 WAR- Electronic Architecture) and WARRIOR tential to add new capabilities as technology RIOR IFV and variants from the then GKN Modular Protection Systems (WMPS). Tri- evolves including enhanced power genera- Defence, now Rheinmetall BAE Systems als with prototypes were undergoing Reli- tion for advanced electronics and network Land (RBSL) at their Telford facility. They ability Growth Trials (RGT) with some 80% connectivity. have been upgraded on a number of oc- complete when the whole programme was casions with a new General Dynamics UK cancelled in March 2021. In its place, the Upgrading Wheeled AFV BOWMAN communications system, Thales BOXER (8x8) will be deployed which were BATTLEGROUP Thermal Imaging (BGTI) re- originally earmarked for deployment by the As well as upgrading their tracked IFV, placing earlier image intensification systems Strike Brigades. some countries are also upgrading at least and a host of upgrades under Urgent Op- part of their fleets of wheeled AFV. The erational Requirement (UOR) funding. BRADLEY M2/M3 French Army, for example, has upgraded Following a competition in 2011, Lockheed part of its fleet of Nexter VBCI to allow Martin UK were awarded the contract for The US Army took delivery of 6,452 BRAD- them to be fitted with additional armour. the WARRIOR Capability Sustainment Pro- LEY M2/M3 series vehicles but the only ex- For the export market Nexter are offering gramme (WCSP), although they did not have port customer was the Kingdom of Saudi the VBCI with different weapon systems as previous experience in upgrading AFVs. Arabia who took delivery of 400 units. The the French Army vehicles have a one per- This major upgrade included the WAR- M2 is the IFV and the M3 is the cavalry ver- son turret armed with a 25mm cannon and sion, although many of the latter have been 7.62mm co-axial MG. converted to M2 standard. Since the last The VBCI has been shown in Europe and the one rolled off of the production line as far Middle East fitted with a Nexter T40 two- back as February 1995, the BRADLEY has person turret armed with a 40mm CTAS, a been constantly upgraded as new technol- roof-mounted RWS armed with a 7.62mm ogy has matured and threats have changed, MG and a pod of ATGW either side. The

Photo: Christopher F. Foss although all armed still armed with the German Army took delivery of almost 1,000 Northrop Grumman 25mm M242 dual feed now Rheinmetall FUCHS (FOX), with final cannon and 7.62mm co-axial MG. The up- deliveries taking place from the Kassel pro- grades include the Bradley M2A1/A2/A3/A4 duction line as far back as 1986. Since then, with many sub-variants with this work nor- the vehicles has been constantly upgraded mally carried out by BAE Systems in conjunc- as well as being adopted for new missions. The Nexter VBCI 8x8 IFV fitted with tion with the US Army Depot at Red River. The latest FUCHS A8 has been upgraded in a Nexter T40 two person turret In addition to installing applique passive ar- a number of key areas including enhanced armed with a 40mm CTAS, a roof- mour, the M2 BRADLEY has also been fitted protection against mines and IED and have a mounted remote weapon station with ERA, new sighting systems, upgraded gross vehicle weight of 24 tonnes. armed with a 7.62mm MG and a power pack and suspension to name a few. The ARTEC BPOXER (8x8) MRAV is enter- pod of ATGW mounted either side The US Army still deploys large numbers ing service with an increasing number of of M113’s series vehicles for a wide range countries. For deployment to Afghanistan, of battlefield missions such as ambulance, an upgrade to the German Army BOXER A1 command port and mortar carrier. These configuration started which included desert were designed over 60 years ago and al- camouflage, enhanced protection against though upgraded no longer, they have the mines and IED, electronic countermeasures Photo: Rheinmetall mobility and protection to operate with the and a raised plinth on which the Krauss- upgraded M2 series BRADLEY. With the Maffei Wegmann FL 200 remote weapon downsizing of the US Army, large numbers station (RWS) is fitted allowing for greater of M2/M3 series BRADLEY are now surplus depression of the 12.7mm MG of 40mm au- to requirements and these are being re- tomatic grenade launcher to engage close rolled into the AMPV. The original intention in targets. For the export market Boxer is The BOXER 8x8 MRAV fitted was to use the existing hull but new alu- offered with a number of weapon systems, with a Rheinmetall LANCE turret minium hulls have been fabricated and five with Australia opting for the Rheinmetall armed with a 30mm cannon and a versions to be deployed, with these being LANCE turret armed with a 30mm cannon 7.62mm co-axial MG Mortar Carrier Vehicle, Mission Command and a 7.62mm co-axial MG. L

76 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY  CBRN Respiratory Protection and Filters

Dan Kaszeta

Many CBRN threats, like phosgene gas, which was responsible for the majority of chemical warfare fatalities in the First World War, are really only serious threats through the human respiratory system. As such, filtration of air for breathing is an important component of CBRN protection and is a key area of technology in both military and civil protection contexts.

he majority of lethal scenarios and situ- Tations in CBRN warfare or terrorism involve threats that are inhaled. Inhala- tion of gas, particles, vapour, or aerosols pose more lethality than liquids absorbed Photo: Avon Protection through the skin. Since the advent of chemical warfare in 1915 in the First World War, the primary defensive countermeas- ure against attacks with chemical agents has been the so-called “respirator”, “gas mask”, or “protective mask”. Terminology varies from country to country for the same identical item of equipment. These terms are used interchangeably in this article. It should also be noted that the CBRN protection market overlaps with but by no means is the same as the civilian respiratory personal protective equipment (PPE) market. Some of the industrial players, described below, play in both markets. Oc- casionally, very similar items get sold for The FM50 mask with and FM61EU filters produced by Avon Protection multiple purposes with minimal differences. However, the civil PPE market is driven jority of the military CBRN product line-up, often worn by firefighters or in industrial by fundamentally different (and diverse) there are numerous similarities. Masks or applications where safety is paramount. requirements for emergency response, respirators, whichever term you use, are SCBA is not a viable option on the mod- industrial hygiene, and workplace safety largely made from rubber. Many different ern battlefield, so military CBRN masks use requirements and specifications. types of rubber are in current use, includ- filters to cleanse the air of hazards. Hav- ing proprietary materials. Eyepieces, usu- ing noted this, SCBA positive pressure de- What the Products Are ally polycarbonate, allow the wearer to see. vices are widely used in naval settings for There are numerous types of configuration firefighting and in some specialist military Given that masks of many kinds are being on the market, with single large plates or CBRN response teams. talked about during the current pandemic, smaller dual eyepieces. Filter canisters are Military masks are described as negative comparatively few people actually know either centrally mounted or to one side. The pressure because they rely on the wearer much about how they work, based on the masks with side-mounted filters are usu- to inhale, thus temporarily creating a nega- mistruths circulating on social media. The ally adjustable so that that filter can go to tive pressure differential on the inside of author’s own experience in both military either side. This is to accommodate military the mask. This temporary negative pressure CBRN defence and civil protection are that personnel who will need to hold a rifle or sucks air through the filter and a critical few users of such technology have a good machine gun to their cheek. Military respi- inlet valve. Exhalation does the opposite, understanding of how CBRN respiratory rators generally come in three or four sizes. temporarily creating a positive pressure protection actually works. The vast majority of military CBRN respira- differential, pushing spent air out of the From a layman’s visual examination of the tors work on a “negative pressure” basis. mask. This continuous cycle of inhalation 50 or so masks that comprise the vast ma- They are, in the terms used by the trade, and exhalation requires depending valves, referred to as “air purifying respirators”. For a good filter, and a mask that is well fitted Author those who are curious, the alternative in to the user. Any lapse in those three fac- respiratory protection is positive pressure tors endangers the wearer. For this reason, Dan Kaszeta is Managing Director at “supplied air” devices such as self-con- military CBRN masks have to be produced Strongpoint Security Ltd. and a regu- tained breathing apparatus (SCBA) supply- to a high-quality standard. It should also lar contributor to ESD. ing air from a storage bottle. These provide be noted that, due to the need to pull air the highest degree of protection and are through the filter with every breath, such

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 77  ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY devices always have breathing resistance. Historically, such breathing resistance has been burdensome on wearers, so manufacturers work hard to make sure that filters and the respirator itself has as low a resistance as possible while still maintaining its protective properties.

Powered Air-Purifying Respirators

There is also a category of CBRN known as Photo: Dräger a “powered air-purifying respirator” (PAPR) The Dräger M2000 is a standard military respirator. A filter replacement which combines many of the features of within seconds minimises the risk of contamination. Two compatible filter both traditional negative pressure masks types, the NATO standard round thread filter and the Dräger F2000 plug-in and positive pressure devices. These PAPR filter, make the mask flexible for the most varied military user groups. devices generally work with a powered blower that pushes air through the same tion are actively pushing PAPRs for special- sorption (note the ‘d’ not the ‘b’) is when a types of filters as normal negative pressure ist military applications. molecule of gas or vapour gets trapped on respirators. A PAPR has certain advantages Finally, there are specialist configurations the surface of a particle, such as activated over negative pressure masks. The air sup- of military masks for specific military us- carbon. The volume of a particular mask plied by the blower effectively converts the ers. The two specialty constituencies within filter element is often driven by calculations mask into a positive pressure device and modern militaries are generally armoured as to how much material may need to be in doing so reduces breathing resistance. vehicle crew and aircraft crew. Such masks adsorbed over a period of time. PAPRs are by necessity heavier, due to need to be designed to integrate into ex- Yet another particular feature of many the need to have a blower and batteries. isting vehicle communication systems and CBRN masks is the use of small amounts PAPRs were rarely if ever seen in military helmets. They often plug into existing air of reactive chemicals to enhance filtration. service, being more common in occupa- supply systems. Some chemical warfare agents and toxic in- tional safety and emergency response use. dustrial chemicals, such as hydrogen chlo- However, there are several market trends at How Filters Work ride and cyanogen chloride, are not eas- present. Most manufacturers are produc- ily captured by the various other methods ing their respirators or at least a variant of It is worth understanding how military mentioned above. Historically, chromium, their respirator facepiece so that they can CBRN filters actually work. Modern filters, copper, nickel, and silver compounds have be used with PAPR or SCBA equipment. whether they are for individual gas masks, been used to react with such hazards and Some manufacturers such as Avon Protec- or larger systems for ships and tanks, use generally increase the overall efficacy of multiple techniques to actually do their CBRN filters. In the past, it has meant that work. A filter’s most primitive action is siev- some types of filters have posed environ- ing. Particles too big to pass through the mental problems when it came time to pores in the filter media are simply blocked. dispose of them. However, while this is a key feature in, say, It should also be noted that no mask filter protecting against nuclear fallout, this is is good for indefinite use. Even exposure Photo: Avon Protection a very small part of the overall action of to ambient air entails exposure to moisture how a filter works. Present day conspiracy which will, over time, consume some of theories and mistruths about pore size and a mask filter’s capacity to adsorb hazards. masks are now commonplace in the COV- Both manufacturers and militaries publish ID-19 pandemic. “filter exchange criteria” that specify the Other actions include interception and in- time intervals, often shorter in humid cli- ertial impaction. The pores in a filter will mates, for exchanging filters. It should also not line up in a straight line, so many par- be noted that it is common practice to use ticles or droplets will hit the filter media, older filter elements in training environ- regardless of theoretical pore size. Even ments as an economy measure. more important is electrostatic attraction. A final note about CBRN filters for protec- Electrostatic charges on the filter media at- tive masks is interchangeability. Standardi- tract particles and droplets, causing them sation, particularly driven by NATO, has led to stick to the filter material. to the state of affairs where there are only a With military masks, which are generally handful of different fittings for the numer- made with activated carbon, adsorption is ous filters and masks out on the military a key factor, particularly for threats which market. An Italian mask can usually take an are true gases like phosgene or chlorine. Israeli filter. The current standards which is This is why, for a century, activated carbon most prolific is NATO STANAG 4155, which has been the prime material for such filters. specifies a 40mm screw mount filter with Avon Protection`s MP-PAPR If properly treated, a single gram of acti- a 1 turn in 7 screw thread. Filters made (Multi-Position – Powered Air vated carbon can contain dozens or even a to such standards still prevail, although the Purifying Respirator) hundred square meters of surface area. Ad- US military has received some criticism for

78 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 ARMAMENT & TECHNOLOGY  turning away from this standard with its companies in CBRN respiratory protection. M50/M51 Joint Service General Protective Some long-standing names have changed Mask (JSGPM). ownership, while others are less prominent than they once were, having lost competi- Fit Validation tions for major contracts. Avon Protection (UK), which is a brand The nature of military masks, with their underneath the venerable Avon Rubber, is negative pressure operation, various sizes one of the leading manufacturers and ar- (but often only S, M, and L sizes), and a guably the global leader in the space. They wide variety of sizes and shapes of users’ won the US contract to make the M50 JS- faces means that having a good fit can be GPM and its specialty variants. This mask the difference between safety and injury. gets sold as the FM50 or C50. Their FM12 Ensuring a proper fit is necessary to force and S-10 masks are in service in at least 25

protection. For many decades, there have Photo: MoD Australia countries. been qualitative methods to check the fit of An Australian Special Forces For many years, Scott Safety (USA) was a a mask. These have often been on the crude operator using the newly issued venerable brand in this space. It has been side – holding a hand over the filter and in- AirBoss “Low Burden Mask” (LBM). acquired by 3M (USA) and has a credible haling to see if the mask collapses around The LBM became the new standard product line. It supplies the General Service one’s face. This is simple and roughly effec- issue gas mask for the Austral- Respirator for the UK MOD, and has its M- tive. Other tactics have involved using safe ian Defence Forces in 2019, and is series masks in use in about 20 countries substances with strong odours – isoamyl slowly replacing the old ADF-10, around the world. It should be noted that acetate, which reeks strongly of bananas, Australia`s variant of the. 3M is also a world leader in the production can be used to see if the mask leaks. At of filter elements. MSA (USA), a venerable the beginning of this author’s career, these of many, change their general use mask supplier, which produced the M17-series of were the common methods. about once every few decades. mask for decades both for the US and its Such qualitative fit-testing methods, while A typical business cycle could be gener- allies, does not have the market penetra- time-honoured, have fallen into disrepute alised. A new requirement, based on im- tion it once did. But its “Millennium” series- with respiratory protection professionals proved technology or possibly a change in mask is a credible offering. The M17 mask over the years and are felt to be broadly standards, results in a new competition for or copies continue to be seen around the inferior to quantitative testing methods. a major national-level contract. Fierce com- world. Between them, 3M and Scott are There are now specialty machines designed petition occurs, with a predictable short list also the major players in the SCBA market. to specifically measure how good (or bad) a for a particular market. The winner makes ILC Dover (USA) once skyrocketed to prom- particular mask fit might be. For example, a much money on the initial buys and a bit inence in this market with the M40 series specific device, the M41 Protective Mask Fit of residual income on replacements, spare masks for the US military, does not have Validation System, was revolutionary in the parts, and related income. They repackage, a great market presence outside the USA. US Army. Fielded as part of the rollout of the slightly, the mask that they made for the They continue to service legacy M40 users. M40-series protective mask, it could give major contract and try to sell it elsewhere Dräger (Germany) is a key European play- actual measurements. It also, at least anec- in the world. Sometimes, this is done with er in this market, although its products dotally, pierced some of the perceived wis- much success and sometimes without any are more widespread in civil protection dom. Some soldiers with apparently good at all. If a general rule of thumb were to and emergency services than in military fits “validated” by the older techniques did be developed, it would be that the larger, markets. Their M2000 is their stand- not actually have good fits after all. more diversified companies have a some- ard offering in military masks. NBC-Sys Quantitative fit testing is now an industry what better record of selling to the global (France) serves not only the French mar- unto itself, and one that has spawned a marketplace and not just their own domes- ket, but a reasonable export market as small industry of its own and has spilled over tic marketplace. well, with their ARF-A/ARFC series of into civil applications. The US firm TSI, based As with some other types of defence com- mask in use in at least 10 markets. Air in Minnesota, has a global footprint and has modities, a lot of national-level manufactur- Boss (Canada) serves an export market established itself as a market leader in this ers have evolved. A number of companies beyond its domestic market as well. Their segment. The aforementioned M41 is their evolved over time who service their nation- relatively new “Low Burden Mask” has product. Fit testing is also heavily marketed al market and tend to service those markets been selected for the Australian military as a service, not just as testing equipment. well, but sometimes have trouble getting and also replaces Air Boss’s C4 mask for outside their domestic markets. The extent the Canadian military. Dynamics of the Market to which these particular national markets Gumárny Zubří (CZ) serves a number of are officially or unofficially protected is one Eastern European markets. NewPac, in Protective respirators have been standard for active debate elsewhere but the subject Sweden, serves some valuable export issue for many decades in all of the major of lengthy discussions inside the industry. markets beyond its own traditional Nordic militaries. All of the major militaries around client base and bears watching. Nokia (Fin- the world field protective masks to their Manufacturers in this Market land) formerly produced masks but is out soldiers, making it easy for a vendor to esti- of the business. Beyond these main players, mate the size of the market. Respirator and This is a large, mature market segment. various smaller companies serve primarily filter orders can be as large as hundreds of Some of the major players evolved out National markets. Zebra (Bulgaria), Sekur thousands of units. However, the technol- of other markets, such as rubber or mine (Italy), Biana (Greece), and Maskpol (Po- ogy only evolves gradually. The US Army safety equipment. Mergers and acquisi- land) are examples of companies serving and British Army, as a pair of examples out tions have also affected the line-up of largely local requirements. L

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 79  INDUSTRY & MARKETS Contract Management in Australia

Stephen Bunce

Defence contracting in Australia is a highly organised, regulated, and thorough process undertaken by the Australian DoD and its agencies. In-fact some of Australia’s flagship Defence procurement programmes such as LAND 400 and SEA 1000 have attracted international attention to Australia’s procurement style, processes, and guidelines.

ccording to the latest November A2020 Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) Major Projects Report (MPR), a total of 25 current major defence projects were reviewed to the tune of AU$78.7Bn. This Photo: Rheinmetall total according to the ANAO reflects a cost increase of AU$24.2bn more than when these programmes achieved second pass approval. Despite the cost increase, ANAO notes only 5 out of 25 of the projects have experienced in year scheduled slippage whilst there is an impressive 98% expected delivery against agreed scope over the 25 projects. Further, 19 of these 25 projects are projected to deliver all their capability requirements. With Australia’s Defence acquisition agenda not immune from the global impacts and delays caused by of COVID-19 The Rheinmetall LYNX KF41 is one of the contenders for the LAND 400 this indeed is quite an impressive feat. programme. Attracting further international interest, Australian defence funding is forecast subject to the Public Governance, Perfor- countability on its procuring agencies and to exceed AU$270bn over the following mance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA an emphasis on maximising ‘social benefit’ decade through to 2030. This comes as Act), which establishes a framework for out of its contracts. a backdrop to Australian Prime Minister expenditure of public resources. The DOD For most Defence procurement pro- Scott Morrison’s recent announcement of has a single procurement policy framework grammes in Australia, prospective com- a more aggressive defence strategy aimed that is managed by the Capability Acqui- panies typically engage in an open tender at deterring China’s military advances in sition and Sustainment Group (CASG). process which involves an open approach the region and amid concerns of greater CASAG is Australia’s central procurement to market that invites submissions from instability in the Indo-Pacific region. With agency acting essentially as a shared ser- tenderers through a request for proposal. all indications pointing to an increase in vice organisation which helps to facilitate Projects that are below the value set out procurement activity, it is vitally important access of capability managers to that of in the CPR’s division 2 thresholds and for all current and potential contractors to industry capabilities themselves. where the Defence Procurement Policy Defence to understand Australia’s national Requirements for procurement are con- Manual (DPPM) considers a procurement framework for procurement activity. tained in the Commonwealth Procurement as low risk, the process generally can be Rules (CPRs) issued under the PGPA Act. conducted on a limited tender basis. This Australian The rule set which was last updated in De- involves either a single or several poten- Defence Procurement cember 2020 are the keystone rules under- tial suppliers being invited to submit a re- pinning the DOD’s procurement activity. sponse in lieu of the open tender process. In a similar fashion to other Australian fed- The CPR’s emphasise sustainable and equi- Defence may also utilise a limited tender eral government agencies, the DoD are table procurement practises and the max- for a procurement at or above the rel- imising of value of money to the Australian evant threshold where it is exempt from Author Government and the taxpayer through the division two regulations under Appendix encouraging of competitive market tender- A to the CPRs. These procurements are Stephen Bunce is a defence writer ing and accountable, non-discriminatory usually either designated as an ‘essential based in Perth, Western Australia purchasing practises. The Australian Gov- security interest’ or alternatively because with a particular interest in Australia’s ernment’s approach to Defence procure- they meet the specified conditions for Defence policy, military affairs, and ment demonstrates a commitment to the limited tender under certain clauses of defence industry. adherence of the CPR’s reflecting a stand- the CPRs. In March 2017, the CPRs were ardised rules-based approach, greater ac- updated to require all Commonwealth

80 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 INDUSTRY & MARKETS  entities to consider and manage their procurement security risk in accordance with the Australian government’s Protec- tive Security Policy Framework (PSPF). Photo: Hanwha

Defence’s ‘Five Pillars’ Strategy Australian Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price MP last year announced the Australian Government’s ‘five pillars’ strategy. This suite of initiatives promises a new and enhanced Australian Indus- try Capability (AIC) contractual framework, an independent AIC Plan Audit Programme, an update to the CPR rules The armoured REDBACK AS21 IFV manufactured by South Korean and reviews into the Centre for Defence Hanwha is another contender for LAND 400 Industry Capability (CDIC) and the Aus- tralian Standard for Defence Contracting industry stakeholders however identified fleet of over 600 of the next generation (ASDEFCON). The strategy will also inves- the concerns of small and medium sized of armoured fighting vehicles. tigate further ways to maximise Austral- enterprises (SMEs) about the complexity Phase 2 of the LAND 400 programme to ian industry participation and sovereign of ASDEFCON templates and the signifi- acquire 211 Rheinmetall BOXER combat capability and the benefits of initiatives cant time and effort that they take to reconnaissance vehicles is largely track- such as the Australian Industry Capability appropriately respond to. One of the key ing on schedule and budget according Roadshow. objectives of the review will be to find to a report ANAO released in November One cornerstone feature of this an- solutions to simplify and streamline the last year. Whilst the report concludes nouncement was a wide-ranging review templates not just to allow Australia’s phase 2 of the programme has largely into ASDEFCON and Defence procure- local SME defence industry to more ef- been effective to date and has potential ment more generally. The review aims ficiently respond but also to enable prime to achieve value for money outcomes, to identify solutions to cut red tape and contractors a better understanding of the programme did not entirely escape to ensure a fit for purpose procurement how local companies can best fit their the watching eyes of the national audi- system remains in place to support Aus- capability requirements. tor. The report notes three prior Defence tralia’s AU$270b roll out in defence capa- reviews on this programme’s approach to bilities over the next decade. LAND 400 market that led to tendering and sched- According to the DoD, ASDEFCON pro- ule constraints, which had the potential vides a suite of contracting and tendering Australia’s multi-phase LAND 400 pro- to discourage potential bidders to partici- templates which supplies a set of profor- gramme is using a three-stage competi- pate in the tendering processes. This had ma documents for use by procurement tive evaluation and risk mitigation ap- the potential to limit competition and op- officers when drafting solicitation docu- proach. The programme is the largest tions available to the Commonwealth re- ments and contracts for the acquisition of and most expensive acquisition project in marked ANAO. Various deficiencies in the goods and services by Defence. A recent the history of the Australian Army tasked risk mitigation process were also flagged government survey that engaged local with managing the delivery of an entire to have undermined the effectiveness of the tender evaluation processes. Further, ANAO noted over 10 contract change proposals have been signed since 30 June 2020 which has effected 175 changes to the contract between Rheinmetall and Defence and adding around AU$130M in costs to the programme. Also tracking largely on schedule is the AU$15Bn LAND 400 Phase 3 pro- Photo: Naval Group (formerly DCNS) gramme to acquire a largely military of the shelf (MOTS) replacement of up to 450 infantry fighting vehicles (IFV) to replace Australia’s current M113 armoured personnel carrier. The second and current stage is the Risk Mitigation Activ- ity (RMA). In this stage the Australian Government is engaging selected final- ists Rheinmetall and Hanwha who have delivered their LYNX and REDBACK IFV offerings to undergo rigorous trials and Australia´s ATTACK class submarine programme is the largest defence evaluation between late 2019 through procurement in the nation’s history. to the end of 2021.

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 81  INDUSTRY & MARKETS Photo: Lockheed Martin

The Royal Australian Air Force will operate the F-35A Conventional Take Off and Landing variant. Australia’s programme of record is for 72 F-35A aircraft.

The benefit of RMA process is that it is allow- The Australian major issues. Concerns have however been ing the DoD to currently carry out extensive Naval Shipbuilding Plan raised by industry leaders and political fig- technical and programmatic assessments of ures that Defence has not done enough to the two proposals whilst it also affords final- In March 2020, Prime Minister Morrison an- avoid the similar issues faced by Canada’s ists the opportunity to refine and negoti- nounced the establishment of a new cabi- next generation frigate programme which ate their offers as the process evolves. Both net committee to tackle increasing concerns has been beset by significant cost blow outs, company’s IFV offerings will be put through about the roll out of Australia’s ambitious delays, and increasingly complex design is- a very thorough testing and evaluation re- National Shipbuilding Plan first announced sues. With the core of Australia and Can- gime conducted by the Australian Army in 2017. The announcement should come as ada’s future frigate programmes based on where the vehicles will also be operated and no surprise as the National Shipbuilding Plan the same British Type 26 Frigate one thing tested in some of Australia’s most versatile has been beset by various cost blowouts and is for sure Australian Defence officials will terrains and extreme conditions. delays, contractual disputes, design issues be closely monitoring developments both After the RMA process, the two shortlisted and public criticism about insufficient local in the UK and Canada. Only time might tell tenderers will submit final offers which will industry engagement particularly concern- how well Australia will succeed in delivering be subject to financial evaluation with the ing Australia’s AU$90Bn future submarine the first of the combat ships for service in the preferred tenderer presented to the Austral- and AU$45Bn future frigate programmes. late 2020s on time and on budget. ian Government for consideration in 2022. The Australian DoD is largely adamant that The Commonwealth will then move to stage the SEA 5000 HUNTER class future frigate SEA 1000 – A Competitive 3 which is the final evaluation and selection programme being delivered by Britain’s BAE Evaluation Process process for the successful tenderer. Systems is tracking as planned and without In February 2015, in what was considered a departure from several already shortlisted MOTS options, the Australian Government announced its acquisition strategy for SEA 1000 which will become Australia’s largest

Photo: Australian DoD ever rolling Defence acquisition programme. The cornerstone feature of the announcement would be the requirement that Defence team with an international partner to design and build Australia’s new ATTACK class of future submarine. France’s Naval Group (then DCNS), Germany’s TKMS and the Govern- ment of Japan were invited to participate in a competitive evaluation process (CEP) to select Australia’s future design and build partner. Later in April 2016, Naval Group were selected as the successful partner for the design and future build of the 12 submarines. In January 2020, Australia’s National Audit Office (ANAO) handed down its latest audit report into the ongoing submarine mega The SEA 5000 HUNTER class frigate project is one of the largest projects programme. The latest report in comparison being undertaken by the Australian DoD, second only to the SEA 1000 to the April 2017 report on the design of pro- submarine Project. It will provide nine anti-submarine warfare (ASW) gramme’s CEP detailed many more concerns frigates to replace the current ANZAC class fleet. with the project than initially identified. The

82 European Security & Defence · 6/2021 Masthead European Security & Defence report in its findings affirms that the decision to forgo the option to Issue 6/2021, June 2021 ISSN 1617-7983 · www.euro-sd.com acquire a MOTS option as originally considered and instead going down the pathway to engage a strategic partner for the design Published by and delivery of the submarines had indeed considerably increased Mittler Report Verlag GmbH the risk of the programme as already identified by Defence. ANAO A company of the TAMM Media Group also noted that the programme was experiencing a nine-month delay against Defence’s predesign contract milestone while two Publisher and Managing Editor: Stephen Barnard (sb) other major contracted milestones had also been extended. The Editor-in-Chief: Jürgen Hensel (jh) report remarked the extension of the two major design milestones Editorial Staff: Rolf Clement (rc, Political Affairs), Waldemar Geiger (wg, Infantry, notably, the Concept Studies Review and the Systems Require- Industry), Wolfgang Gelpke (wge), Gerhard Heiming (gwh, News, Land Forces), Rolf ment Review could not demonstrate that the AU$396M spent on Hilmes (rh, Army Technology), Hans-Uwe Mergener (hum, Naval Forces), Ulrich Renn design of the Future Submarine was fully effective in achieving the (ure, Air Forces) programme’s two major design milestones to date. Online Editor and Webmaster www.euro-sd.com: Jack Richardson (jr) ANAO also reaffirmed Defence’s recognition of differences in Copy Editor: Christian Kanig (ck) commercial and engineering approaches of that of Defence Regional Correspondents Belgium/EU/NATO: Joris Verbeurgt, Brazil: Roberto Guimarães de Carvalho, and Naval Group and how it has likely impacted the progress of Denmark: J. Bo Leimand, France: David Saw, Georgia: Beka Kiria, India: the programme to date. ANAO also noted a delay of the Future Suman Sharma, Israel: Tamir Eshel, Italy: Luca Peruzzi, Japan: Shinichi Kiyotani, Submarine Programme of more than three years would create a The Netherlands: Jaime Karremann, Poland: Michał Jarocki, Portugal: António Brás Monteiro, Regional Correspondents, Russian Federation: Sergey Kirshin, capability gap in the RAN’s submarine capability. Therefore, the Yury Laskin, Spain: Esteban Villarejo, Taiwan, North & East Asia: JD Kitsch, report affirms that Defence’s plan for a life of type extension for Turkey: Korhan Özkilinc, UK: Christopher Foss, Tim Guest, Ukraine: Alex Horobets, Australia’s current COLLINS class submarines would be neces- USA: Sidney Dean, Chet Nagle sary to manage such capability gap. Layout: CREATIV.CONSULTING GmbH, Germany Production: Australia’s F-35A Lehmann Offsetdruck GmbH Rollout Progressing Well 22848 Norderstedt, Germany Office Address: Australia’s AU$17Bn Air 6000 Phase 2A/2B Programme to Mittler Report Verlag GmbH acquire 72 Lockheed Martin designed F-35A Lightning Joint Beethovenallee 21, 53173 Bonn, Germany Phone.: +49 228 35 00 870, Fax: +49 228 35 00 871 Strike Fighters (JSF) was declared by the RAAF to have met an [email protected], www.mittler-report.de on-schedule initial operating capability in December 2020. So Managing Directors: Peter Tamm, Thomas Bantle far, over 30 of the JSFs have been delivered to Australia. The latest ANAO MPR does however recognise the complexity of Advertising, Marketing and Business Development Stephen Barnard the international collaborative aspect of the programme and Phone: +49 228 35 00 886, Mobile: +44 7984 033154 the varying challenges it faces especially during the Covid- 19 [email protected] Pandemic. Therefore, the likelihood of the programme meeting Stephen Elliott its scheduled final operating capability in December 2023 is a Phone: +49 228 35 00 872, Mobile: +49 1590 173 0346 [email protected] little more uncertain. Waldemar Geiger Phone: +49 228 35 00 887 [email protected] Prospects for Defence Jürgen Hensel Contracting in Australia Phone: +49 228 35 00 876, Mobile: +49 176 2386 3904 [email protected] Australia has generally proven itself as a global leader in the Dr. Andreas Himmelsbach defence acquisition domain with its highly regulated, thorough, Phone: +49 228 35 00 877 and objective driven procurement agenda. Although Australia’s [email protected] big ticket acquisition programmes such as SEA 1000 have been Advertising Representative, Russia & CIS: affected by cost blowouts and delays, stringent procedural over- Laguk Co., Yury Laskin, General Director sight and auditing have generally been effective in identifying Krasnokholmskaya Nab., 11/15, 132, RF-109172 Moscow, Russian Federation risk, concerns and in offering solutions for projects which have Phone: +7-495-911-1340, Fax: +7-495-912-1260, Email: [email protected] deviated off course. Exhibition Management and Advertising Administration: Renate Herrmanns Australia’s approach to contract management very much re- Advertising Accounting: Sabine Rump quires perspective vendors to Defence to familiarise themselves Subscription/Reader Service: with the myriad of Defence procurement policies, the CPR’s PressUp GmbH, PO Box 70 13 11, and contracting template that govern the procuring conduct 22013 Hamburg, Germany between Defence and business. These can be considered bur- Phone: +49 40 38 66 66-319, Fax: +49 40 386666-299 densome for some, but much is being done through the various Email: [email protected] ‘five pillars’ initiatives such as latest review into ASDEFCON to European Security & Defence, © 2021 Mittler Report Verlag GmbH streamline processes and the ease of contracting with Defence. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. One thing is for sure with over AU$270bn projected to be spent All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior by Defence over the following decade through to 2030 op- written permission of the publisher in Bonn. portunities are abound for companies big and small, locally and Cover photo: Raytheon ELCAN from abroad to enter Australia’s defence supply chain. There- Annual subscription rate: €82.50 incl. postage fore, taking the time to fully understand Australia’s approach Reduced annual subscription rate for national distribution in Germany: to Defence procurement and contract management has never €64.90 incl. postage been more important. L

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SCAN ME JETZT BESTELLEN! koehler-books.de INDUSTRY & MARKETS  “We see an increasingly complex threat environment.”

Based in California, TCI International, Inc. is an export-oriented provider of spectrum monitoring, SIGINT and geolocation solutions. ESD spoke with Kevin Davis, Vice-President of Product and Channel Management.

with speed and precision. As we survey the engineered solutions markets. It is based in security landscape today, we see an increas- Charlotte, North Carolina, with more than ingly complex threat environment. There are 4,500 employees in 17 countries. SPX Cor- more actors able to pose a threat and their poration is listed on the New York Stock Ex- CONOPS has become more varied, such as change under the ticker symbol SPXC. through the use of drones, and thus more crucial to identify. The rise of 5G and other ESD: In your niche, you are a supplier to

Photos: TCI high frequency technologies represent an more than 100 countries. Where are your additional challenge to COMINT due to how core markets? they work and how we anticipate they will Davis: For civilian spectrum monitoring, ESD: In 2018, you celebrated TCI's 50th an- be used in the coming years. Finally, we are TCI’s top markets are primarily in develop- niversary. What has changed over time, and closely tracking advances in radio frequency ing nations, especially those in Asia and what are the most current trends in the do- machine learning and see great potential in Africa. However, we also serve select coun- main of the electromagnetic spectrum? this and related forms of artificial intelligence. ties in Europe, South America and North Kevin Davis: TCI was founded more than America. The COMINT side of our business five decades ago by a group of innovative en- ESD: TCI is today a subisidary of SPX Corpo- is driven largely by the threat environment, gineers with a problem to solve: How can you ration. Can you say a few words about the thus Europe and Asia are particularly active reduce rework, schedule and cost for large company's origin? at present. Yet threats exist elsewhere, so array antennas? The company pioneered the Davis: SPX began in 1912 as the Piston Ring our equipment can be found throughout the use of computers to simultaneously design Company based in Michigan and specialis- world, including in countries that may not in mechanical and RF characteristics of the ing in original equipment components for the headlines daily but need to protect their antennas – removing errors caused by inde- the automotive industry. After acquiring the borders, territorial waters and other assets. pendent manual calculations. In doing so, Accuralite Company in 1931, the company Our solutions are trusted by US and allied the company not only significantly reduced changed its name to Sealed Power Corpora- military, UN peacekeeping forces, border design and implementation costs, plus deliv- tion and started manufacturing piston rings, security agencies, law enforcement and the ery schedules, it amassed crucial RF spectrum pistons and cylinder sleeves for military ap- intelligence community. monitoring and management expertise. To- plications. A series of additional acquisitions day, we help national governments monitor led the company to change its name in 1988 ESD: You certainly face strong domestic and enforce spectrum licensing regulations, to SPX Corporation. Today, the company is a competition on the European market. What while providing allied military forces with sig- supplier of highly engineered products and are TCI's selling points here? nals intelligence systems to help personnel technologies, holding leadership positions in Davis: TCI has sales and support offices in detect, collect, analyse and locate RF signals the HVAC, detection and measurement, and 13 countries supporting an installed base in more than 100 nations. Europe has been a key market for us and the unique threat environment there has driven strong interest and procurement for our COMINT systems. We are continuously improving the capabilities and performance of these systems to provide faster signal intercept and analysis, more accurate geolocation, greater CONOPS flexibility, more reliable communications in high- and variable-latency data links, and the ability to react faster on the front line. We believe these innovations and more than three decades of superb customer support will enable us to remain a trusted provider of choice in Europe and elsewhere.

The interview was conducted by Mobile and portable COMINT equipment is part of TCI’s core portfolio. Andreas Himmelsbach.

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 85 INFORMATION SUPERIORITY – PRINT AND ONLINE

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Anzg_ESD_Prigital_210x297_2021.indd 1 19.05.21 11:28 INDUSTRY & MARKETS  “Our ASCOD is the only platform in the current Czech competition which can be adapted to a medium main battle tank.”

With more than 2,000 highly skilled employees, GDELS companies design, manufacture and deliver wheeled, tracked, and amphibious vehicles and other combat systems such as armaments and munitions to global customers. As one of the European leaders in the land combat systems sector, GDELS is currently offering its tracked ASCOD platform for the Czech Army’s IFV requirement. ESD had the opportunity to speak to Juan Escriña, GDELS Vice President for Tracked Vehicles & Artillery and Manag- ing Director of GDELS-Santa Bárbara Sistemas (SBS). Photos: GDELS SBS

ESD: What are the main military pro- will be particularly exciting as we are wit- on the highest levels of survivability, af- grammes your company is already devel- nessing the entry into service of highly in- fordability, commonality, interoperability, oping? novative armoured vehicles, setting a new multi-role, and future growth potential, Escriña: GDELS-SBS is currently working benchmark for the armed forces of the 21st as well as optimisation for military mobil- on multiple programmes for armies of dif- century. ity, one of the priorities for the European ferent countries worldwide for tracked, as Union and NATO for the coming decade. well as for wheeled vehicles. ESD: And the VCR 8x8 DRAGÓN is the key In line with this military and political Our tracked vehicles are based on the AS- programme for the coming years in Spain. prioritisation, GDELS has recently been COD platform. With its modular design Escriña: With regard to wheeled vehicles, supporting the widely recognised mili- and open system architecture, the ASCOD GDELS-SBS is working on the new 8x8 tary mobility initiative of the transatlantic can be customised easily for multiple roles, armoured vehicle for the Spanish Army, think tank, CEPA, under the leadership of including that of a Light Tank (LT) or Me- namely the VCR 8x8 named DRAGÓN, General (ret.) Ben Hodges. dium Main Battle Tank (MMBT), and can based on the PIRANHA V platform. The When it comes to “multi-role” and “future be equipped with large-calibre cannons up project comprises 348 vehicles and was growth potential,” our ASCOD is the only to 120 mm. Four nations (Austria, Spain, contracted in 2020 to Tess Defence, a col- platform in the current Czech competi- United Kingdom and an Asian-Pacific cus- laboration of various Spanish companies tion, which can be adapted to a Medium tomer) have already chosen the ASCOD as such as SBS, Indra, EM&E and SAPA. The Main Battle Tank (MMBT) variant with large their preferred tracked armoured vehicle DRAGÓN is manufactured and integrated calibre cannons (105 mm to 120 mm), and platform. at our factories in Asturias and Andalucía. a tracked, self-propelled 155 mm cal. 52 Currently, we are working for the Span- GDELS-SBS is also responsible for the devel- howitzer system or to a Multiple Launch ish Army on the PIZARRO (ASCOD) family opment of the vehicle’s protection package Rocket or Missile System. of armoured vehicles, and the advanced and the open electronic architecture. In order to maintain General Dynamics’ Engineering Combat version (ECV), called Finally, we are carrying out the mid-life up- global leadership in tracked and wheeled “CASTOR” (Beaver). The Spanish Army is grade and maintenance of PIRANHA IIIC vehicles, we will continue to invest in ad- testing the prototype prior to beginning vehicles for the Spanish Marines. vanced innovative technologies. We have the manufacturing phase. The programme defined a path and a product strategy for is an innovation milestone for this kind of ESD: Which new projects are you expect- the ASCOD, which, in combination with specialised vehicle in terms of protection ing for the coming years? our industrial cooperation model, is very and capabilities. Escriña: We are closely collaborating attractive for our customers. With four Furthermore, we are working in close co- with various European and NATO coun- customers currently and more than 1,000 operation with General Dynamics UK on tries, which are planning to replace or vehicles in service or under contract, the the multi-variant AJAX programme for the upgrade their ageing vehicle fleets. Our ASCOD is the best military and industrial British Armed Forces. The coming years GDELS value proposition clearly focuses option to master the military require-

6/2021 · European Security & Defence 87  INDUSTRY & MARKETS ments and fulfill the understandably high expectations of the Czech Army. We are confident that after a fair, competitive process, the Czech customer will decide on the best available solution, also taking into account GDELS’ excellent record of achievement and longstanding, trusted partnership with the Czech Republic and its Armed Forces. GDELS possesses advanced technology solutions for armoured vehicles and artillery programmes, which the Spanish Army is determined to include in its modernisation project “Fuerza 35”. In this regard, we have recently presented a new variant of the PIZARRO/ASCOD family for special roles and missions. Using our Common Base Platform (CBP) concept, the Spanish The new VCR 8x8 armoured vehicle for the Spanish Army's Army will have the same platform for most DRAGÓN programme of the support and specialist vehicles for its mechanised units. The new variant of tory shut-downs at some of our factories aims at fostering the competitiveness and the PIZARRO – also known as “CARGO”- and have been fully focused on mitigating innovativeness of the European defence will serve as a substitute for the old M113, any negative impact on our operations. We technological and industrial base thereby M109 or multi-rocket vehicles. This new are proud that through the extraordinary contributing to the EU's strategic auton- contribution will considerably reduce the efforts of our entire GDELS team, we have omy. It also aims at triggering cooperative cost, as well as the logistic footprint, while been able to adapt to these challenges programmes that would otherwise not increasing the efficiency and operability of quite successfully. Beyond these efforts to happen without an EU contribution and, the entire fleet. minimise negative effects on our own com- by supporting research and development Last but not least, GDELS-SBS is ready to pany, our solidarity and support extends to activities, to provide the necessary incen- support the Spanish Army in their plan for our numerous industrial partners, in par- tives to boost cooperation at each stage a potential mid-life upgrade of the LEOP- ticular to suppliers and small companies, of the industrial cycle. ARD 2 E. which in many cases have greater difficul- Spain, with its diversified, strong defence ties to master the current struggles. industry is very much supporting this ESD: What challenges is your company fac- historic European initiative. The Span- ing in the COVID context? ESD: Where do you see new opportunities ish defence industry is well prepared to Escriña: Since the company operates on for your company? contribute to EDF projects and to embed a global scale, we are of course not un- Escriña: On 1 January 2021 the Euro- its stakeholders into respective consor- affected by the constraints, challenges, pean Defence Fund (EDF) started with tia. GDELS-SBS, together with 35 indus- and economic implications of the ongoing a total agreed budget of €7.953Bn for try partners from 15 EU Member States, pandemic. Since our primary concern is the the 2021-2027 period. The EDF will be has applied for funds provided under the health and safety of our employees, we es- scaling up the funding for collaborative European Defence Industry Development tablished a robust COVID protection pro- research in innovative defence products Programme (EDIDP) and is determined gramme across our entire organisation at and technologies and for subsequent to continue this important collaborative an early stage of the crisis. Due to national stages of the development cycle, includ- work through the EDF. legislation, we also had to manage manda- ing the development of prototypes. It GDELS-SBS’ unique proposal is our professional approach and customer-oriented flexibility in respecting certain sensitivities while accommodating different national interests, and remaining open for changing industrial partnerships. We are determined to further strengthen our positon as a key player in land systems, which necessitates continued investment and efforts in new technologies and innovation, particularly in three areas: digitisation, automatisation, and energy management (electrification). While we are prioritising these areas of technological innovation, we will of course remain dedicated to our core value proposition regarding protection, mobility and commonality.

The interview was conducted by GDELS is offering the ASCOD in the current Czech competition. Esteban Villarejo.

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