Zayed Is in Our Hearts

[ A Specialized Monthly Journal On Military & Strategic Affairs ] 41st Year | Issue No. 488 | Sep 2012 The boom in Armoured vehicle market

The Cover Zayed Is In Our Hearts

Undivided Loyalty Since its inception in 1971, the UAE has been an oasis for peace, security and soli- darity with a strong bond between the leadership and the people. No wonder, it has become in record time, one of the top progressive and prosperous nations. We have a prosperous life that is denied to many others mainly because we have stood unitedly to support our wise leadership that spares no pains to provide a decent life to all citizens. By: Citizenship is all about duty and spontaneous generosity. Everyone is striving to render our nation prosperous and strong. Staff Major\ Yousef Juma A few misguided, ungrateful elements have recently tried to mess with the destiny AL Hadad of the UAE by deviating from time-honored tenets with the intent of playing havoc with our nation by spreading malicious rumors, undermining security and stability Editor in Chief and fomenting sedition, using “reform” as an excuse. They are anything but reformers. Corrupt and driven by a foreign agenda, this clique uses a cover that has to be blown in order to reveal how insincere their love is for the UAE and its President His High- ness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces (May God save him). The Almighty God says in the Holy Koran: When it is said to them: “Make not mischief on the earth” They say: Why, we only want to make peace!” of a surety, they are the ones who make mischief, But they realize (it) not. It is not surprising for the UAE people to stand for and support, their leadership with one single target in mind: defend our nation. This spontaneously reflected national support for our leaders in the face of malicious, grudge-filled conspiracy-mongers who sold their souls to foreign agenda by trying to tarnish the impeccable reputation of the UAE, its symbols and leaders. They tried in vain to break national ranks and foment sedition. The UAE security is everybody’s –nationals and expatriates alike- responsibility. Everyone should stand up to this corrupt clique whenever the peace and security of this land is undermined in any way. Citizens have always been with their nation and leaders in their heart and mind – an attitude naturally driven by “one family spirit” whereby defending our homeland, its wealth and destiny is a prime concern. The measures taken, or will be taken, against this grudge-filled clique trying in vain to undermine national security and stability, have earned popular and official support. We are all for whatever measures to be taken by government agencies, either by offering piece of advice or by punitive acts. Accordingly, abusers to this beloved land should offer a well-deserved apology to the UAE, leaders and honest citizens, and ask for forgiveness to restore self respect first and respect of the others subsequently. We, the citizens and expatriates, are all required to close ranks and stand by our wise leaders to fight corrupters. Deviants who did their best to insult this beloved land should know that the UAE has become a minaret for forgiveness and tolerance and a beacon for civilization under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces (May God save him) who spared no pains to realize the great achievements now enjoyed by citizens and expatriates alike. Finally, we express our undivided support for our nation and for our leader His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces (May God save him) • Editorial | Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 3 A Specialized Monthly Journal on Military and Strategic Affairs Issued By UAE Armed Forces. Established In August 1971.

General Supervisor Chairman of the Administrative Council 06 General \ Matar Salem Ali AL Dhaheri < Deputy - Chairman of the Administrative Council ILA 2012 all set for success Brigadier \ Hassan Abdel Wahab Al Hamadi Editor in Chief Staff Major \ Yousef Juma AL Hadad Editorial Manager Major \ Jassim Shaheen Al Bloushi 14 Art Director < Moza Al Ali Editorial Consultant Mohamed Almusharaf Khalifa Airborne Early Warn- Sub-Editors ing & Control Confer- Mariam Al Romaithi ence Jameela Al Kaabi Editorial Board Hanan Aldahab Al Junaibi Amal Salem Al Hosani Nazli Nasser Al Bloushi Ebrahim M.Al Mansoori Layout & Design Suad Al neaimi 18 Aala Al Zaabi > Huda Al Attas Ahmed Mhammoud Iraqi Joint Forces Chief Translation of Staff: UAE hosted Mohamed Sulaiman Language Rectification us during our libera- Awad Abdelraouf tion Eisa Al Darmaki Photos Archive Fatima Al Naqbi Tel: +971 (2) 4415999 FAX: +971 (2) 4078191 P.O.Box: 3231 Abu Dhabi Advertisement & Distribution Marketing Fax :+971 (2) 4078191 E-Mail (Advertising): [email protected] 1\Lt Khalil Mohammed Al Kaabi E-Mail (Edit):[email protected]; [email protected] website: www.nationshield.ae Sakha Pramod

4 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | COVER 20 < The boom in Armoured vehicle market 488

[ A Specialized Monthly Journal On Military & Strategic Affairs ] 41st Year | Issue No. 488 | Sep 2012 The boom in Armoured vehicle market

The Cover Zayed Is In Our Hearts

‏Zayed..a soul still living in the memories of the nation and human-conscience, with his name engraved in all corners of the country. UAE citizens remains loyal to Unmanned Ground him, always inspired by his wisdom. Robots Cover Photo by: National Center for Documentation & Research

16 Arabic section

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| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 5 Events

MirroringILA 2012 aviation all developments set for for success more than 100 years

The stage is set for the first International Leading international exhibitors will lin Air Show. Aerial displays of the A- Aviation Exhibition (German: Interna- include Airbus, Antonov, Arianespace, 400M Military Airbus, the A-380 Airbus tionale Luftfahrt-Ausstellung (ILA)) to Astrium, Beriev, Boeing, CADES, CAE, (the world’s largest airliner) and Euro- be held at the new venue at Berlin Expo- CASSIDIAN, Diamond, Diehl, EADS, copter’s X-3 hybrid demonstrator will Center Airport, adjacent to BER (Berlin Eurocopter, ESA, the Fraunhofer Insti- be major highlights at the show. Over Brandenburg International), the capital’s tute, Irkut Corporation, Ivchenko, Lieb- a three-day period, as part of its aerial future airport from 11 to 16 September. herr Aerospace, Lufthansa Technik, MiG displays, this year’s partner country Po- More than 1,100 exhibitors from around Russian Aircraft Corporation, MD Heli- land will demonstrate a Polish Air Force 40 countries are expected to participate copters, MT-Aerospace, MTU, North- MIG-29, its own aerobatics display team, in the expo. rop Grumman, OHB, Oboronprom Biało-Czerwone ISKRY (White and Red For the first time, exhibitors represent- (Russian Helicopters, United Engine Sparks), and give an aerial display of the ing Estonia, Greece, Ireland and Serbia Corporation), IABG, Pratt & Whitney, Polish version of the Black Hawk heli- will attend ILA. Current booking levels Premium Aerotec, Raytheon, Rheinmet- copter. Other static displays will feature indicate a significant increase in partici- all, RECARO, Rockwell Collins, Rolls- an MP-02 Czajka, EM-11 Orka, AT-3, pation by exhibitors from India and Ja- Royce, ROSKOSMOS, Sukhoi, RUAG, PZL M 28 and C 295 Casa. pan as well as from neighboring Europe- Sikorsky, SKF, TATA and Thales. Two teams from Italy, the Pioneer an countries. Poland, this year’s partner Team with four Pioneer 300 jets as well country, will host its largest display to Aircraft from all eras as the We-Fly Team with three FlySyn- date at the ILA and will be represented Aircraft of all sizes, in all categories and thesis Texans, will also be giving aerial by all of its major aerospace companies. from all eras will be on display the Ber- demonstrations of their skills. PC Aero’s

6 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | them a Eurofighter, McDonnell Douglas will all be debuting at the ILA. The spec- More than 1,100 F-18 (from Finland) and a MiG-29 from tacular X-3 in particular will fascinate this year’s partner country Poland. the experts with a flying display. exhibitors from The sections Commercial Air Trans- The more than 20 helicopters on show port, ILA HeliCenter, Aerospace, Mili- represent the latest technological ad- 40 countries tary Aviation, the International Suppli- vances for a wide range of applications ers Center ISC (11 – 13 Sept.) and the such as search & rescue and EMS as well likely to attend ILA CareerCenter (14 –15 Sept.), will as for the police and the military. Exhib- demonstrate the cutting edge of tech- its will include an EMS version of the nology of the present day and the fu- EC135 from Poland, a CH53, a Tiger, a ture. The UAS Plaza with its display of Bundeswehr NH90 and a Polish version unmanned aircraft systems, Alternative of the Sikorsky Black Hawk. The themes Electra One Solar will be on display for Aviation Fuels and roger Airfield, with of the HeliCenter display section in the first time, showing that progress is its new format for General Aviation, are Hall 3 and on the adjacent outdoor site being made towards achieving solar all new sections at the show. feature not only the many civilian and flight. Electrically powered and with administrative aspects of “Air Rescue”, wings featuring solar panels, it is almost Debut at the ILA HeliCenter “Aviation Work”, “Border Protection completely noiseless in flight. The ILA HeliCenter is firmly established and Police Missions” but also aspects Early cargo planes on display will in- as a European trade show and market- of military deployment such as “Com- clude a DC-3 and DC-6 from Red Bull, place covering all aspects of procure- bat Search and Rescue (CSAR)” and a Lisunov Li-2 and, a special highlight, ment, operation, training, financing and “Marine Helicopters”. Among the other a Lockheed L-1049 Super Constellation mission adaptation for the latest helicop- main topics are “Air Safety”, “Training from Breitling (one of currently only two ters. This is reflected by the scope of the and Simulation” and “Environmental airworthy planes in the world). Military display and the many helicopters and Compatibility and Emission Reduction”. flying displays will include historical related products making their debut at With over 30 exhibiting firms, the ILA aircraft, ranging from a Messerschmitt ILA 2012. Interest this year will be con- HeliCenter offers potential customers an Me-108, Me-109 and Me-262 to a Lock- centrated on three new helicopters: the ideal opportunity to learn all about the heed P-38 Mustang and Hawker Sea EC145-T2, UH-72 Lakota and Euro- latest products, as well as about training, Fury, as well as modern fighters, among copter’s X-3 hybrid demonstrator, which services and many other aspects.

Historic Aircraft- Dassault MD 311 Amicale des Aviona Anciens d’Alber

| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 7 Events

Historical background information on the ILA Ever since it first took place in 1909 the ILA has been recognized as the world’s oldest air show. It is co-organised by the German Aerospace Industries Associa- tion (BDLI) and Messe Berlin. The first ILA in 1909 at Frankfurt/Main lasted 100 days. Following its debut in 1909 in Frankfurt/Main, from 1912 until the Second World War the ILA took place in Berlin. In the mid-fifties the ILA ex- perienced a renaissance and for 30 years it was held at Langenhagen Airport near Hannover. Since 1992 the ILA has been held bi-annually at Schönefeld Airport in Berlin/Brandenburg and reflects the entire aerospace industry at an international trade fair and conference event that caters for the public as well. This ILA Heliport year the Berlin Air Show will take place at Berlin ExpoCenter Airport, on the new exhibition grounds directly adja- Electra One Solar Electra One Solar makes 100 per cent cent to BER, the capital’s new airport. As At ILA 2012 roger Airfield is to be the solar powered flight possible for the first many as 1,153 companies from 47 coun- new home of General Aviation. There time. Thus the ILA is the first trade fair tries took part in ILA2010, exhibiting is keen interest in electrically propelled, worldwide to present all stages of solar- around 300 aircraft on the ground and in the air to around 235,000 trade visi- and if possible solar powered aircraft. powered air travel, including charging tors and members of the general public. PC Aero’s Electra One Solar, on display and flight. at roger Airfield for the first time, shows Besides the Electra One Solar the lat- that good progress is being made. This est models representing general aviation original specifications. More than any is an electrically propelled aircraft, with as well as rare historical aircraft will be other name, Bücker is synonymous with integrated solar panels on its wings and on show. One of the special highlights developments in general aviation in the independent batteries for storing solar will be a Bücker Bestmann from the Berlin/Brandenburg region. The newly power. Practically noiseless in the air, 1940s which has been restored to its founded German Aviators’ Club will also be at roger Airfield and is represented for the first time. Space meets Earth With the Space Pavilion, Space Confer- ences/Events and Aeronautic & Space World as its three main concepts, this year the Aerospace section will again feature a high-level meeting of experts and a unique discovery world for the public, thereby underlining the ILA’s international standing as the leading trade fair for the aerospace community. The focus is on the Space Pavilion organized Dassault Mirage 2000N French Air Force by the Federal Ministry of Economics

8 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | represented and will give an aerial display of the F-18 Hornet. UAS Plaza debut Exhibitors at the new UAS Plaza will display a wide range of unmanned aircraft systems for the first time. Well known UAS manufacturers such as Cassidian, General Atomics and Northrop Grum- man will display their products at the UAS Plaza or on their company stands. Their exhibits will include the Predator, EuroHawk and Barracuda. The Bun- A380 Airbus deswehr will show the ALADIN, KZO and LUNA unmanned aircraft systems and Technology (BMWi), the European As the largest exhibitor at ILA 2012 the on its display area. Space Agency (ESA), the German Aero- Bundeswehr will put on an impressive space Center (DLR) and the German display of its capabilities, of combined Alternative aviation fuels Aerospace Industries Association e. V. weapons systems. Inside the pavilion in Alternative fuels currently represent the (BDLI). Unmatched anywhere in Eu- Hall 3, on an area covering more than most dynamic development in aviation. rope, the pavilion has already received 1,000 square metres, the Luftwaffe and At ILA 2012 AIREG, the Aviation Initi- numerous international awards. Under military aviation industry will demon- ative for Renewable Energy in Germany, the heading of “Space for Earth“ and in strate its successful cooperation with and CAAFI, the US/German Commer- space-like surroundings, the partners in- customers and contractors to ensure cial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative, volved will present all of Germany and the operational capability of all the will host their own display section on Europe’s leading space projects and pro- Bundeswehr’s aircraft. The exhibits will this topic for the first time. On 12 Sep- grams on a display area covering 1,500 include six fighters, four fixed-wing air- tember a parallel conference on “the fu- square meters. craft, ten helicopters and four unmanned ture of alternative aviation fuels“, one of aircraft systems. In a joint demonstra- the outstanding events of the ILA pro- Exclusive marketplace tion of their capabilities six Tornado gram, will also be taking place. Exhibitors at the International Suppliers jets, a Eurofighter, two F-4 Phantoms, a Center ISC in Hall 6 will benefit from CH-53, a C-160 Transall and an Airbus ILA 2012 the leading international companies tak- A310 MRTT tanker aircraft will take to Military aviation is an essential part of ing part in the ILA and from the pres- the skies together. the international aerospace industry, ence of more than 120,000 trade visitors. A Eurofighter as well as NH90 and not merely from the point of view of Over 250 exhibitors from more than CH-53 military helicopters will be technology and the industry. The wide 20 countries are expect to be at the ISC among those taking part in individual range of products and services it offers alone, including for the first time com- displays. A UH Tiger will also be at the ensures that armed forces remain opera- panies from Austria, China, Estonia, ILA. One of the major highlights will be tional and are able to fulfil their mission Greece and Malaysia. This year the ISC the new A400M Airbus military trans- worldwide. The ILA is unique among will host two International Buyers‘Days port plane, which will be part of the im- European aerospace exhibitions in gath- on 12 and 13 September. This platform pressive program of flying displays and ering the representatives of companies for information and establishing con- can also be seen on the ground. Com- and the military together as partners tacts is an exclusive event which brings panies representing the USA, France, at a single event and provides the ideal together exhibitors at the ISC and buy- the UK, Italy and NATO are also taking platform for an international dialogue ers from large companies. part. Among their exhibits will be a UH- between politics, industry and the mili- Military aviation, security and de- 72 Lakota, F-16 Fighting Falcon, Mirage tary. ILA 2012 is on course to surpass fense 2000 and E3A AWACS. Finland will be the records set at 2010•

| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 9 News

Eurocopter delivers two NH90s to France Raytheon awarded USD 925M for advanced Standard Missile-3 The Missile Defense Agency awarded Raytheon Company a $925 million contract for development of the Standard Missile-3 Block IIA missile, which is a co-development effort between the U.S. and Japan. “As the threat continues to evolve, so does our ability to counter that threat,” said Dr. Taylor W. Lawrence, president of Raytheon Missile Sys- NH90 tems. “We’re honored to work with The French DGA armament procure- carry out in the interest of the French na- our Japanese allies to bring this next- ment agency has taken delivery of its section with these technologically-advanced generation defensive capability to the ond NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopter aircraft.” world.” (TTH) and seventh NH90 NATO Frigate The NH90 TTH helicopters will pro- Used by the U.S. and Japanese na- Helicopter (NFH), marking an impor- gressively replace the Pumas in service vies to destroy short- to intermediate- tant step forward in the largest European with the French Army Air Corps. In range ballistic missiles, the SM-3 is helicopter program launched to date. its final operational configuration, the the only defensive weapon of its kind. The ceremony celebrating this dual NH90 is equipped with field-tested avi- The SM-3 Block IIA will have a 21- delivery was held at the Marignane, onics that enable the helicopter to carry inch 2nd and 3rd stage rocket motor France headquarters of Eurocopter, and out missions both day and night regard- and a larger, more capable kinetic was attended by members of the DGA; less of the weather conditions. It also has warhead. Dominique Maudet, the Eurocopter high-performance self-protection equip- On track for a 2018 deployment Group’s Executive Officer for France, and ment, a military communication system date, the missile is the third evolution Vice President of Global Business and that is interoperable for international op- of the SM-3 family of missiles and Services; along with a number of repre- erations, and equipment for ship-based builds on the successful legacy of the sentatives from the French armed forces. deployment. first two variants: SM-3 Block IA and The French Navy NH90 NFH helicop- The NH90 NFH helicopters are ship- SM-3 Block IB. The SM-3 program ters – designated the Caïman – represent based combat rotorcraft, and will be as- has achieved 21 successful intercepts. an important element in the combat sys- signed anti-ship and anti-submarine “The SM-3 IIA’s larger rocket mo- tem for the service’s anti-aircraft defense missions in their operation from French tors will allow for a greater defended frigates and multi-mission frigates. This Navy frigates, as well as search & rescue area, which is an important factor seventh-delivered NH90 NFH will be- and anti-terrorism duties at sea. when it comes to protecting both the come part of the initial ship-based group The aircraft boast a state-of-the-art U.S. and our NATO allies,” said Wes based on the Aquitaine multi-mission weapons system that combines, as part of Kremer, vice president of the Air and frigate by 2013. a high-performance platform, a package Missile Defense Systems product line “This delivery of two versions of the of ultra-modern electronic, acoustic and for Raytheon Missile Systems. NH90 on the same day is a major step optronic sensors as well as weapons loads SM-3 Block IA missiles are cur- in the historical relationship between Eu- adapted to anti-ship and anti-submarine rently employed on Japan’s Kongo- rocopter and our customer, the French missions. The NH90 NFH also performs class ships. Raytheon has delivered state,” said Maudet. “We are especially amphibious, maritime surveillance and more than 130 SM-3 variants to the proud to play a part in the important mis- anti-piracy missions. U.S. and Japanese navies on time and sions that the French armed forces will on budget.

10 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | VX-1 Flies P-8 Poseidon during RIMPAC 2012 The P-8A Poseidon jet, made its Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise debut this year, flown by two air crews from Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 1 at Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kane- ohe Bay, during the 23rd edition of the biennial exercise. “The P-8A Poseidon is easier to fly, trims well, and handles flawlessly [at low altitude],” said Lt. Cmdr. Chris Ar- tis, VX-1 maintenance officer and inte- P-8A Poseidon grated training team pilot. “It’s easy to maneuver, and the situational awareness submarine warfare. VX-1 officials said 800ERX airliner, but incorporates a host in the cockpit is unlike anything I’ve training requirements are extensive in of modifications. P-8As feature Raythe- ever seen before. Getting used to the the P-8A because of the complexity and on multi-mission surface search radars, technology and the different displays the speed of the aircraft, and that RIM- and incorporate a short bomb bay aft can be a challenge, but overall it’s fun PAC provided extensive, open airspace of the wings for torpedoes, sonobouys to fly.” and a robust exercise schedule where (small expendable sonar capsules that The VX-1 crews flew two P-8As dur- the squadron could demonstrate the ca- are dropped or ejected from the aircraft ing 24 exercise events ranging from pability of the new aircraft. for anti-submarine warfare or underwa- routine test flights to simulated anti- The P-8A is based on the Boeing 737- ter acoustic research), and cargo.

Anglo-French Unmanned Air Systems Saab Receives Order for Fire Programme Contract Awarded Control and Radar Systems Defence and security company Saab The FCAS DPPP contract will pro- to investigate the potential for com- has received an order for naval fire pose a joint plan to mature and dem- mon UAS development programmes control and radar systems.The order onstrate critical technology and opera- in the future. amounts to SEK 450 million and in- tional aspects of a future combat air Chris Boardman, Managing Direc- volves business areas Security and De- system. It is expected that this will lead tor, Military Air & Information, BAE fence Solutions and Electronic Defence to a joint Unmanned Combat Air Sys- Systems said: “BAE Systems and Das- Systems. tem demonstration and operational sault Aviation have been working to- The fire control system and radar evaluation programme in the future. gether closely to ensure we maintain systems will be integrated with a third The two companies fully support our status as leading providers of aer- party combat management system. De- their governments in their stated de- ospace capability. The signing of this velopment and deliveries will take place sire for closer bi-lateral defence re- contract will ensure that both coun- 2012-2017. lationships. Since 2010, they have tries get the best return on their invest- The defence and security industry’s started and continue to work closely ment and positions the two companies nature is such that information regard- together to mature and develop fur- well to meet any future Anglo-French ing customers and products sometimes ther their common understanding of requirements.” is subject to confidentiality agreements technology, capability and business This contract is the first UAS con- between Saab and its customers. For opportunities in the Unmanned Air tract to come out of the Defence Ac- this reason Saab stated that further in- System (UAS) arena. They support cord signed at the Anglo-French Sum- formation about this order will not be the two governments’ stated intention mit in November 2010. announced.

| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 11 News

CASSIDIAN opens new opportunities in airborne ground surveillance Cassidian, the defence and security di- conjunction with the innovative and with an autonomous cooling system, vision of EADS, has developed an air- extremely powerful real-time modes making possible immediate adaptation borne ground surveillance radar that, has already undergone various success- to various mission aircraft. through use of the newest ultra-high- ful tests on behalf of the German Fed- The high performance of the radar resolution radar technology, can moni- eral Office of Defense Technology and is largely due to state-of-the-art AESA tor wide areas with stationary targets Procurement (BWB). “Our SmartRadar technology (AESA = Active Electroni- while at the same time detecting and offers higher reconnaissance perfor- cally Scanned Array) which uses a large tracking moving targets at great distanc- mance in less time than other airborne number of transmitter and receiver es. The utilisation of a special modular surveillance radars currently available (T/R) modules in the antenna. These architecture permits scalability of band- and can be rapidly adapted to various modules, which are made from special width, frequency band and processing customer requirements and platforms,” HF-capable materials, are developed performance. Rapid adaptation to new says Elmar Compans, Head of the Sen- and manufactured by Cassidian in its operational requirements through sim- sors & Electronic Warfare unit at Cas- own facility, known as the “Microwave ple, configurable firmware and software sidian. “The sensor’s real-time informa- Factory”. Cassidian is the pioneer of this together with a variable cooling design tion needed today for protecting our technology in Europe and delivers simi- make “SmartRadar” (Smart = Scalable troops and combating possible threats lar T/R modules for the TerraSAR earth Modular Aerospace Radar Technology) is unsurpassed in its quality and low la- observation satellite, the radars of the suited to a wide range of manned and tency.” German Navy’s new F125-class frigates unmanned platforms. One version of Cassidian’s SmartRa- and the SPEXER 2000 border surveil- The novel technological design in dar is integrated into a pod equipped lance radar, among others. UK MoD takes delivery of latest Argon CBRN training simulation systems The Defence Chemical, Biological, Radi- ing system. This enables instructors to Phil Strudley concludes, “Tools such ological and Nuclear Centre (DCBRNC) manage multiple remote simulator in- as PlumeSIM will allow us to train per- at Winterbourne Gunner has taken de- struments under a fully configurable sonnel faster and more efficiently, giving livery of the latest CBRN training simu- virtual plume, in real time, over user se- them the knowledge and experience that lation systems. Supplied by UK manu- lected mapping. will help them perform an even better facturer Argon Electronics, the new job once they return to operational du- systems include both instrumentation ties. These advanced simulators will also and simulation software. help reduce the Integrated Logistics Sup- CBRN Programme Team Leader, Phil port costs associated with our detectors”. Strudley, says, “The acquisition of this Steven Pike, Managing Director of Ar- latest equipment is an important step gon Electronics, says, “The need for effec- for the CBRN training centre, providing tive training and simulation is becoming our trainers with a range of sophisticated increasingly important. As a result, the tools that allow us to simulate a wide DCBRNC is playing a vital role in pro- range of threat scenarios”. viding world class support to the UK’s The CBRN team worked closely with armed forces, helping to protect both Argon to ensure that the contract was military and civilian personnel. We’re fulfilled on time and within budget. The delighted that the Centre chose to specify Argon equipment includes the com- Argon simulation instrumentation and pany’s latest CAMSIM and LCAD hand software for this essential function, and held instruments, the MCAD simulator have worked closely with the DE&S team and the advanced PlumeSIM wide area at Abbey Wood to ensure that our equip- CBRN field exercise and desktop train- Training Simulation System ment was delivered to a tight time-scale.”

12 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | Next-Gen Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System on Silent Eagle less restrictive,” said Greg Hardy, Boeing JHMCS program manager. The new head-tracking technology is significantly easier to maintain while requiring less support equipment than previous trackers. Electronics enhancements enable all processing to be done within the helmet, eliminating most aircraft-mounted equipment, which also contributes to the system’s overall cost savings. The system provides an easy transition in flight between day and night modes, greatly increasing mission flexibility. VSI Silent Eagle Helmet also used maturing display and tracking technologies to reduce the complexity of Boeing recently validated the integra- by Vision Systems International (VSI), integrating the JHMCS II/h system on tion of the next-generation Joint Helmet this system provides significantly im- an aircraft, an approach that was vali- Mounted Cueing System II/h (JHMCS proved ergonomics and reliability, at low- dated during the demonstration. II/h) on the company’s F-15 Silent Ea- er cost, than VSI’s prior JHMCS system. “Integrating this enhanced system gle demonstrator aircraft, continuing A recent flight in St. Louis demon- onto the Silent Eagle took less than three the on-schedule development of this ad- strated the system’s enhancements and months between ‘go-ahead’ and first vanced multi-role jet fighter. collected baseline data for the head- flight,” said Hardy. “This timeline was The JHMCS II/h allows a pilot to aim tracking technology. achievable because of the dedication of sensors and weapons wherever he or she “Both pilots who flew with the JH- the industry team, the simplicity of the is looking, through the use of new head- MCS II/h system immediately noticed physical and logical integration, and the tracking technology and a display pro- that the helmet was more balanced and long history Boeing and VSI share on jected onto the helmet’s visor. Produced the smaller, lighter interface cable was the JHMCS program.” Navy conducts Pax River’s first flight of X-47B unmanned aircraft The Navy made Pax River history after it ship equipment at Pax River allow us to conducted the naval air station’s historic conduct the testing here before we land first flight of the X-47B Unmanned Com- aboard the aircraft carrier next year.” bat Air System (UCAS) demonstrator. One of the testing facilities at Pax Riv- The tailless, unmanned aircraft er is a simulated aircraft carrier environ- launched from Pax River and flew for a ment, which will allow team members to planned 35 minutes. The aircraft reached ensure the aircraft is ready to operate in an altitude of 7,500 feet and an air speed testing at sea. Land-based testing will es- of 180 knots during its flight. tablish X-47B has the ability to conduct “This milestone event is the first of precision approaches and to perform many flights at Pax River to demonstrate arrested landings and catapult launches X-47B unmanned aircraft X-47B’s compatibility with aircraft carri- prior to actual aircraft carrier operations. er flight procedures and launch/recovery “The X-47B’s flight today is another manned systems from aircraft carriers,” equipment,” said Matt Funk, UCAS lead important step closer to the Navy’s vision said Capt. Jaime Engdahl, Navy UCAS test engineer. “The unique airspace and of operating tailless, autonomous, un- program manager.

| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 13 Report

Airborne Early Warning and Control Conference Debating the Operational Considerations when Employing AEW&C Assets

Following a highly successful and well fighters to their target locations, and procurement of AEW&C platforms and received launch event in Malaysia last also to identify and respond to counter technologies. November, and a recent AEW&C event attacks by enemy forces. Companies involved in the following focussing on India’s requirements, Tan- This two-day conference programme areas are recommended to participate: gent Link is bringing its third event in will focus and debate the operational Manufacturers of AEW fixed or rota- this series to the UAE. Tangent Link’s considerations when employing this ry wing aircraft platforms, test sets and Middle Eastern Airborne Early Warn- vital asset. It will also look at the ex- stimulators, data loggers and recorders, ing & Control Conference and Exhibi- panding roles of these aircraft including data links, radars, communications sys- tion will take place on 12th-13th No- counter drug and piracy operations. tems, IFF systems, avionics navigation vember 2012 at the Armed Offices Club, Maj. Gen. Stephen D. Schmidt, Com- systems, electronic countermeasures, Abu Dhabi, UAE. mander-NATO AEW Force Command flight management systems for AEW The UAE Air Force is currently un- (SHAPE), Belgium has accepted our aircraft will all have equipment of inter- dergoing an ambitious modernisation invitation to speak at this conference. est to the key Emirati stakeholders. with the goal of attaining a level of ca- Other invited speakers include the UAE To sponsor, exhibit, or attend as a del- pability matching the highest NATO Air Force, UAE, Swedish Air Force, egate for this event please contact: Ali- standards. Procurement of AEW&C Royal Malaysian Air Force, Royal Air son Knapp; Head of Business Develop- aircraft in the region has produced an Force, UK and the Pakistan Air Force. ment, Email: [email protected] interim AEW&C solution. Further ac- This highly targeted event will pro- or Rebecca Covey Business Develop- quisition is expected, and marks a re- vide an excellent networking platform ment Manager, Email: rcovey@tangen- newed effort to produce an increasingly for international and local companies tlink.com effective and integrated command-and- to showcase their capabilities to an au- Or Tel: +44 (0)1628 660400 or visit: control infrastructure with airborne dience of Senior Emirati Military Of- www.tangentlink.com platforms and long-range ground-based ficers involved in the specification and radars. Options are now being consid- ered for a long-term UAE Airborne Early Warning solution, and a range of AEW&C aircraft and technologies of dif- fering types is being assessed for future procurement. Since the early 1960’s AEW&C aircraft have been used for both defensive and offensive air operations, they are a highly mobile and a powerful radar platform. The aircraft are used to direct

14 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 |

Interview Iraqi Joint Forces Chief of Staff: UAE Hosted Us During Our Liberation Iraq is capable of rebuilding itself by the efforts of its own nationals

In a comprehensive interview with the ‘Nation Shield’ journal, H.E. the Iraqi Joint Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Babakir Baderkhan Al Zibari, spoke extensively about military cooperation between Iraq and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the challenges facing Iraq after the withdrawal of the To what extent can military coop- force the capabilities of the Iraqi American troops. General eration between Iraq and the GCC Army. Some people believe that af- Al Zibari commended the States contribute to the restabiliza- ter the withdrawal of the American tion of Iraq? forces, Al Qaeda will return. How- UAE’s support and unlim- Iraq’s resumption of normal rela- ever, the Iraqi Army is well prepared tions with the Arabian Gulf states to face any exigencies. Our security ited aid to Iraq. will be a very important facilitator of is strong but certainly, there are at- the process of the restabilization of tacks on soft, easy targets against ci- Iraq. We are also a Gulf country so vilians and innocent people. comprehensive and integrated coop- By: Jassim Shaheen eration will benefit both sides. Un- Your Excellency, you have called Ibrahim fortunately, there are certain quarters for strong relations with Iran. trying to thwart cooperative efforts. What did you imply? Photo: Abdul Rahman bin We are a democratic state. We do Once you said that the Iraqi Army not interfere in the internal affairs of Abbad would not be ready to maintain se- other states and we do not want oth- curity before 2012. Can you elabo- ers to meddle in ours. Cooperation rate on this? breeds stability and prosperity, which We have a long term plan to rein- are in the interests of all parties.

18 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | Iraqi Joint Forces Chief of Staff: UAE Hosted Us During Our Liberation Iraq is capable of rebuilding itself by the efforts of its own nationals

Can the GCC states, and the UAE in must establish a partnership and coop- of Saddam Hussein’s regime, was one of particular, increase military coopera- erate to overcome terrorism. the first countries to cooperate with us. tion with Iraq? The UAE gave us unqualified support. It Our cooperation with the UAE began In which regions have you been able provided us with patrol boats and organ- from early 2004. The UAE hosted us to control security problems after the ized training for our officers and soldiers during the liberation of Iraq. Coop- exit of US troops? in the most advanced military institutes eration between the two countries took We are in control of all of Iraq and the and colleges in the UAE. It extended a the form of exchanging expertise. Del- roads connecting Iraqi provinces except helping hand to us in the fields of op- egations from land, air and naval corps where some clandestine cells are trying erability, maintenance and equipment exchanged visits. The UAE has trained to strike at soft targets. The Iraqi youth, management. We look forward to devel- different units of the Iraqi Army. This however, have been able to contain ter- oping this. was in addition to our cooperation with rorism. Qatar and the Hashemite Kingdom of How can Iraq play a role in defusing Jordan. Iraq has lost a large number of scien- the tension between Iran and the Gulf tists and other educated people. How States? Iraq still faces a number of issues in are you going to compensate this? We do not want tension between Iran the domain of internal security. Can This is a grave loss. Terrorists targeted and the Arabian Gulf countries. The the Arabian Gulf countries help in this scientists, doctor and engineers who Iraqi Government is persistently trying regard? died as martyrs. However, Iraq has a to ease the situation; tension is not in We are facing the issue of terrorism, large group of intellectuals in all fields the interest of either Iran or the Arabian which is a global issue. We must cooper- of specialization. With the scientists now Gulf countries. Any tension or conflict ate to fight terrorism. Certainly, this is in Iraq and those who are going to re- will affect the whole region economi- not an easy task and requires coopera- turn from abroad, we can compensate cally and politically. The world depends tion with sisterly Gulf states. this loss. on this region. All must work on easing In Iraq, we have an on-going process of the situation. If something clouds the national reconciliation and general am- Do you think that Information War- relation between brothers and friends, it nesty. Many people who had emigrated fare represents an additional challenge must be tackled via brotherly and con- have now returned. Our doors are still to the Iraqi Armed Forces? structive dialogue. We must not give open to every Iraqi who had left the Information Warfare is a two-edged others the chance to exploit the situa- country. weapon, depending on how you employ tion. Here the media can play an impor- it. Today, Information Warfare repre- tant role. What are the basic threats facing Iraq sents a vivid, tangible reality. The way internally and externally now? How is information is gathered, assessed, ana- Do you like to make any final com- Iraq going to tackle this? lyzed, and used, achieves its objective. ments? The most serious threat facing us now We want all the brotherly and friendly is the border question with neighbor- How do you view the progress in mili- countries of Iraq to work hand in hand ing countries, especially Syria. We are tary cooperation between the UAE to eradicate terrorist cells from the whole Syria’s neighbor and so the instability and Iraq in the recent years? world. We want them to cooperate with in Syria undoubtedly affects Iraq. Ter- I can say that Iraq’s Arab relations began each other so that peace can prevail• rorism is a risk that spares no one. We with the UAE. The UAE, after the fall

| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 19 Researches The boom in Armoured vehicle market Armoured vehicles form the core of land forces’ combat power

20 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | The boom in Armoured vehicle market Everyday troops on the Armoured vehicles form the core of land forces’ combat power front lines are put in dan- ger unnecessarily because they do not have the pro- ???????? tective equipment they need. The latest Ameri- can deaths in Iraq un- derscore the importance PIRANHA of “armored” vehicles to Wheeled armored combat vehicles now with seating for eleven, while a 30mm provide greater protec- form the core of deployable land forces remote turret enables small team, com- combat power and for this reason they bined arms operations through its com- tion for troops. The Nor- need to be effective across the complete prehensive range of weapon and sensor spectrum of conflict including peace keep- systems allowing the detection and en- wegian government is ing, counter insurgency and ultimately gagement of a wide range of battlefield general war. Earlier this year a prominent threats. The DESERT PIRANHA 5 can planning to invest more Middle East country had issued an inter- be delivered in either high or low roof than $1 billion to procure national request for proposal (RfP) for the configurations with open architectures, new fleet, with an order that could total as over 15 tons payload and 120 kW elec- new armored vehicles and much as $2 billion. The order will be for a trical power. This provides growth po- new generation of armored vehicles with tential to secure a long service life for the upgrade its current fleet. a contract for 600 8x8 wheeled combat ve- vehicle as new technologies emerge and Middle East countries hicles in the pipeline. need to be integrated into the vehicle. Here’s a look at some of the vehicles in DESERT PIRANHA 5 which is a highly are also increasing their contention. protected 8x8 vehicle available provides General Dynamics European Land the highest levels of mine, improvised budget for armored vehi- Systems DESERT PIRANHA 5 explosive device (IED) and ballistic pro- -DESERT PIRANHA 5 has been detection. It has a next generation, full cles and their upgrade and signed from the outset with adaptabil- coverage, modular survivability system retrofit with UAE leading ity, flexibility and growth capacity as the that has been integrated in the vehi- corner stones of the design. It provides cle design from the concept stage. This the way. the highest levels of survivability against system provides unparalleled all round conventional and asymmetric threats protection, particularly in the wheel well while having the capacity to fill all bat- area that has traditionally been vulner- tlefield roles such as APC, Electronic able to IEDs on wheeled armoured com- Warfare, Ambulance, Reconnaissance, bat vehicles. The entire survivability sys- Command, Mortar and even Direct tem has been designed to be replaced or Fire with turrets up to 120 mm calibre. upgraded through life to take advantage The DESERT PIRANHA 5 as an Infan- of new survivability technologies as they try Fighting Vehicle (IFV) delivers the mature or to counter emergent threats. troop and internal capacity of an APC, DESERT PIRANHA 5 also features a

| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 21 Researches range of tailorable survivability kits that allow the tactical commander to adapt the vehicle in theatre. This ensures the vehicles suitability for operation in com- plex terrain against aggressive threats such as IED EFPs, or through rapid re- configuration, allows to undertake roles requiring the highest levels of mobility and agility such as formation reconnaissance. Patria AMV -One of Patria’s most essential export products is the Armoured Modular Vehicle, Patria AMV. Today the number of globally contracted Patria AMV 8x8 exceeds 1,400 vehicles. Patria VBCI AMV is contracted among others by the Finnish, Polish and Swedish Defence Forces, and it has been fielded in ISAF operations since the year 2007. Patria also produces advanced mortar systems. The newest product of Patria’s mortar systems is Patria Nemo, which is a 120 mm remote controlled mortar turret, providing both direct and indirect fire support. As a modern and compact system, Patria Nemo can easily be mounted onto various tracked and wheeled chassis. Due to its low weight of only 1500 kg, Patria Nemo is now also adaptable to lightweight, high-speed vessels and can ARMA 8x8 be effectively used for harbour patrolling and protection, coastal guarding and in- Finally, its significant additional weight ARMA 8x8 armoured combat vehicle is fantry landing operations. margin means that the VBCI protection the newest product of Otokar specially NEXTER VBCI - One of the VBCI’s remains upgradeable, and will soon be designed according to the current and major advantages is its protection, an es- reinforced by active protection against future threats using the newest technol- sential requirement for the armed forces, rockets (type RPG), shells and anti-tank ogy. Armoured combat vehicle ARMA and highlighted by the experience ac- missiles. The VBCI is air-transportable 8x8 can transport ten dismounts, the quired in Iraq and in Afghanistan. The by A400M. Concerning operational mo- driver and the commander and a maxi- VBCI’s level of protection outclasses bility, the 8x8 configuration breaks with mum load weight of 24 tons. The com- that of all existing 8x8 vehicles, with its the tradition of track-laying Infantry pact engine positioned at the front right high strength alloy hull and its add-on Combat Vehicles, to combine maximum of the vehicle provides large interior vol- metal armour. Structurally, the VBCI ballistic and anti-mine protection with ume and ergonomic internal operating provides a very high level of protection very high mobility. The VBCI offers a environment for the armoured vehicle. against conventional munitions (medi- range of 470 miles and a maximum road With a superior mobility ready to give um calibre fire, shell shrapnel). It is also speed of 60 mph. service in all kinds of terrains, ARMA designed to resist improvised explosive Otokar ARMA 8x8 - Providing high 8x8 is also featured with amphibious devices (IED) and very powerful mines, protection against explosives and mines kit. ARMA 8x8 draws attention among and also has an infra-red decoy system. together with its superior mobility, its kind throughout the world with its

22 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | thus far are a section transporter, a field ambulance, a combat engineer section vehicle, a command vehicle (on display in the Rheinmetall pavilion at Eurosa- tory 2012), a driving school version, a logistics vehicle and a battle damage re- pair vehicle. Prioritizing armored vehicle Combatant commanders and joint war fighters have an operational requirement for highly deployable, tactically mobile, sustainable ground forces with significant firepower and intelligence- Boxer Armoured Personnel Carrier gathering capability. Every army needs to ensure that the military is agile, flex- superior mobility, high protection and mobility with good ride comfort, ITAR ible, and ready for the full range of con- unique survivability. Its basic mono- free design comprising mainly of COTS tingencies. coque type body structure and safe components, High payload capacity The challenge with prioritizing ar- seats provide efficient protection to the (11 tonnes), high mobility is achieved mored vehicles capabilities really relies crew against ballistic and mine threats. through the inclusion of a specifically in how a country or organisation em- ARMA 8x8 provides an ideal armoured adapted hydro-pneumatic suspension. ploys those vehicles. We traditionally combat vehicle for remote controlled The lower hull of the vehicle comprises think of tactical mobility on the battle- turret systems with its modular struc- five modular units joined together and field; actually maneuvering towards the ture suitable for various missions and its bolted under the top structure. The vehi- objective or screening through an area. independent hydro-pneumatic suspen- cle is based on the 8×8 wheeled chassis. But the Marine Corps has to look at sion minimizing the vibration inside the Artec - Boxer - Having joined forces both tactical mobility and operational as vehicle. to form the Artec consortium, Rhein- well as strategic mobility. So the mili- BAE Systems RG41 - The RG41 is an metall MAN Military Vehicles manu- tary forces really have to balance mobil- 8×8 wheeled armoured combat vehicle factures the Boxer in cooperation with ity, not just at the tactical level but at the developed by BAE Systems South Af- Krauss-Maffei Wegmann under a bi- strategic level as well as the operational rica. It is a new-generation combat vehi- national programme. level. Therefore it is crucial to continue cle, which integrates high mobility, pro- The Boxer is one of the most advanced to invest in capabilities critical to future tection and fire power in an advanced combat vehicles in the European mili- success, including intelligence, surveil- combat vehicle platform. The vehicle is tary inventory. Since July 2011 the Ger- lance and reconnaissance• suitable for multiple theatres. man ISAF contingent has deployed two The RG41 development project be- different versions of this highly mobile, gan in 2008 and the first RG41 vehicle superbly protected system in Afghani- Ref / Photo credit : was showcased at the Eurosatory de- stan: a troop carrier capable of trans- www.gdels.com fence exhibition in Paris in June 2010. porting a fully equipped infantry sec- www.baesystems.com The RG41 has a high payload capac- tion, and a command vehicle. Designed www.patria.fi ity, a classleading turning circle, good for maximum mobility, this wheeled www.otokar.com power-to-weight ratio and a unique hull armoured vehicle’s build-on modules www.nexter-group.fr design. RG41 is designed as an afford- lend themselves to a wide variety of able and highlymobile, wheeled combat mission-specific variants. The vehicle vehicle, suitable for modern warfare. family consists of a uniform chassis and Key features include; a modular, field- interchangeable, user-specific mission repairable mine protected design, high modules. Among the variants developed

| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 23 Researches Unmanned Ground Robots Multifunctional Platforms for Tactical Applications

A variety of robotics platforms are used in a number of industries for different purposes. Most of the robots that are in current production fulfill one basic function for the user: they go places that humans cannot or will not go, and do tasks that humans cannot or will not complete.

24 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | Unmanned Ground Robots Multifunctional Platforms for Tactical Applications

TALON Ripsaw

Militaries worldwide have started to equipped with heavy duty track and/or as a scout and survey locations that may construct and deploy robotic weapons wheel systems that allow them the abil- be unsafe for humans. Robots in this systems. Although human controllers ity to traverse all types of terrain includ- category are generally equipped with may still be monitoring the functioning ing mud, snow, and water. Often they video cameras that link back to hand- of the technology, the next logical step are also outfitted with maneuverable held display units. Some have audio is to transfer incrementally more of the arms. While rather fast and strong, most communication capabilities as well. decision-making power to the robots robots that fall in this category are not A set of more focused non-combat themselves. very agile and often require wide-open market segments can be identified and There are a vast amount of unmanned spaces to operate properly. These robots critically examined for market attrac- ground robots in production today. are also generally very heavy and require tiveness. These segments include: Nucle- Some are designed to be adept at trans- multiple individuals and large trucks in ar waste disposal site inspection, Bridge porting items and have robust towing order to transport them. inspection, Building Inspection, Victim capabilities; others are specifically de- There are a significant number of -ro Recovery, Pipe inspection, Duct clean- signed to work well in confined envi- bots that are designed to work well in ing, Hull inspection, Mine mapping, re- ronments. Some platforms specialize confined areas, such as pipes. These -ro mote visual inspection etc. in scouting and surveillance activities, bots generally have a near zero turning while others offer the ability to traverse radius and can fit through very small ACER arduous terrain in a variety of environ- openings. However, their ability to work The Armored Combat Engineer Ro- mental circumstances. The ability of a well in confined areas does come with bot (ACER) is a military robot created specific platform to be man portable is its drawbacks. Many of the platforms by Mesa Robotics. Roughly the size of also a major distinction between differ- designed to work well in confined ar- a small bulldozer and weighing 2.25 ent robot formats. eas, lack the ability to traverse interior tons, ACER is among the larger of the Some robots are equipped with sub- stairwells with much proficiency. This terrestrial military robots. Nonetheless, stantial motors and use heavy steel trait can render a robot that specializes like many other military robots, it has a frames that enable them to carry pay- in confined pipes useless, due to the fact modular body, allowing for adjustments loads in excess of 1000 lbs. These robots that many urban robot situations occur for its next mission. ACER is able to are often described as material handling where the goal of a particular mission reach speeds of 6.3 mph, using treads for robots and posses the capability to move requires that the robot move to and movement. Uses for this robot include very large items that humans alone can- from different floors in a building. clearing obstacles, removing explosives, not move. Many of these units are often Many robots possess the ability to act hauling cargo and disabled vehicles, and

| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 25 Researches

SMSS will decrease the amount of time needed to control robotic systems by providing vehicles that can navigate autonomously Squad Mission Support System (SMSS) serving as a platform for various other The TALON is fast and mobile, able 510 PackBot tasks, such as clearing buildings and dis- to climb stairs, negotiate rock piles, over- 510 PackBot is a military robot by iRobot. arming landmines come concertina wire and plow through More than 2000 are currently on station snow. The robots have been used world- in Iraq and Afghanistan, with hundreds TALON® wide, from Ground Zero after the 2001 more on the way. PackBots were the first Since its introduction more than a dec- World Trade Center attack – where it robots to enter the damaged Fukushima ade ago, TALON® family of robots has withstood repeated decontamination – nuclear plant after the 2011 earthquake earned a reputation for durability, flex- to Iraq. Rugged, easy to use, and – most and tsunami. PackBot can assist in Ex- ibility, modularity and performance in importantly – protecting the lives of plosive Ordnance Disposal, Explosives keeping personnel, assets and civilians those who protect ours. Detection, HazMat Detection, Surveil- out of harm’s way. In military, law en- lance / Reconnaissance, Checkpoint, Ve- forcement and first responder applica- Daksh hicle and Personnel Inspections, Build- tions, these lightweight tracked vehicles Daksh is an electrically powered and re- ing and Route Clearance, Emergency are widely deployed for improvised ex- motely controlled robot used for locat- First Response etc. plosive device (IED) and explosive ord- ing, handling and destroying hazardous More than 3,500 PackBot robots have nance disposal (EOD), reconnaissance, objects safely. It is a battery-operated been delivered to military and civil de- communications, CBRNE (Chemical, robot on wheels and its primary role is fense forces worldwide. 510 PackBot Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explo- to recover bombs. It locates bombs with easily climbs stairs, rolls over rubble and sive)/hazmat, security, heavy lift, defense an X-ray machine, picks them up with navigates narrow passages with sure- and rescue missions. a gripper-arm and defuses them with a footed efficiency, traveling at speeds of Initially deployed in 2000, the TAL- jet of water. It has a shotgun, which can up to 5.8 miles per hour ON robot system has grown to include break open locked doors, and it can scan many specialized models, modules, cars for explosives. Daksh can also climb Gladiator attachments, and applications, from staircases, negotiate steep slopes, navi- The Gladiator is a tele-operated, semi- route clearance missions to SWAT/MP gate narrow corridors and tow vehicles. autonomous vehicle, designed to in- unit support. Large enough to get the With a master control station (MCS), it crease human survival by neutralizing job done, yet small enough to be easily can be remotely controlled over a range threats and reducing risk to Marines on transported, the TALON is a remarkable of 500 m in line of sight or within build- the ground. The UGV will be equipped achievement in robotic technology. ings. with remote, unmanned scout, recon-

26 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | naissance, and surveillance capabilities. When the Gladiator is out working Daksh locates in the field, a marine will be a safe dis- tance away, controlling the UGV with a bombs with an controller modelled from popular video game systems. X-ray machine, The UGCV’s innovative, fully articu- picks them up lating 6x6 suspension with in-hub trac- tion motors provides superior mobility, with a gripper- allowing it to surmount obstacles bigger than the diameter of its tires. arm and defuses Ripsaw MS1 them with a jet of MS1 is a hardened high standard Rip- saw, designed specifically for US Army water UGV Application. MS1 has weapons Daksh installed and the vehicle weighs approxi- mately 9,000 lbs with a height of 70 in combat readiness, while assuring re-sup- guard duty drops dramatically after the and payload capacity of 2,000lbs over ply channels and casualty evacuations. first 30 minutes which can turn very 60mph. It has a revolutionary mechani- Combining perception with extraor- deadly. Increasing attention is also paid cal clutching system which allows for dinary mobility allows vehicles to follow to how to make the robots more autono- the control of a hydro-static transmis- the Warfighter across most terrain, guar- mous, with a view of eventually allowing sion with the power speed and simplic- anteeing the payload the robotic system them to operate on their own for ex- ity of a mechanical drive system. It has a is carrying will be available whenever tended periods of time, possibly behind mobile range of 30in above ground. Rip- and wherever the Warfighter needs it. enemy lines. For such functions, systems saw is highly adaptive for multiple weap- Few other robotic systems allow for au- like the Energetically Autonomous Tac- ons and missions. The current missions tonomy dependable enough for a vehicle tical Robot are being tried, which is in- are IED counter measures and detection to follow someone without the use of tended to gain its own energy by forag- and defeat of unmanned assault vehicles location-disclosing beacons. The vehicle ing for plant matter. with weapons and Javelin anti-tank mis- can also operate by remote control, tele- Potential risks - In 2011, academics and siles. operation or by manual control. technical experts attended a conference SMSS received a U.S. Army contract to discuss the impact of the hypotheti- Squad Mission Support System in 2011 to deploy vehicles to Afghani- cal possibility that robots and computers Lockheed Martin Squad Mission Sup- stan, to see how autonomous robots could become self-sufficient and able to port System leverages robotic technolo- can benefit the Warfighter. It previously make their own decisions. Some experts gies for unmanned transport and logis- served in Army experiments as a self- and academics have questioned the use tical support for light, early entry and sustaining, portable power solution, in- of robots for military combat, especially special operations forces. It solves ca- cluding soldier battery recharge and lo- when such robots are given some degree pability gaps by lightening the Soldier’s gistics support for infantry. A squad-size of autonomous functions • load and serving as a power manage- manned or unmanned support vehicle is ment resource. critical to today’s asymmetrical and ur- Reference / Photo credit: The SMSS will decrease the amount of ban battlefields. www.lmco.com time a Warfighter has to spend in con- www.dtic.mil trolling robotic systems by providing Effects and Impact www.howeandhowetechnologies.com vehicles that can navigate autonomously. Advantages - Some of the advantages of The SMSS’ supervised autonomy will robotic technology in warfare are that provide the Warfighter with a reliable machines do not get tired or close their squad-size vehicle, which will improve eyes. A human’s attention to detail on

| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 27 Techniques VAB Mk3 P r o v i d e s N AT O l e v e l 4 b a l l i s t i c p r o t e c t i o n and MRAP level Mine / IED protection

28 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | The VAB Mk3 was designed with 30 years of experience with the fa- mous VAB family but is a brand new vehicle. It retains the proven generic architecture of the VAB while being a bit longer and higher to augment the internal volume for the crew. It also retains the 2.55 meters width of the VAB for excellent urban and strategic mobility.

At 20 tonnes of GVW, the VAB Mk3 offers sufficient payload to accommodate various mission and weapon systems. It is also designed with a high level of survivability for the crew: ballistic protection up to NATO level 4 (Stanag 4569) and mine / IED protection up to a MRAP level. Renault Trucks Defense has envi- sioned several variants thanks to the modular VAB Mk3 platform: armored personnel carrier, infantry combat vehicle, ambulance, ISTAR (intelligence, surveillance and targeting), 120 mm mortar carrier and command post. An open and progressive electronic architecture developed by Renault Trucks

| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 29 Techniques

Technical Specifications Length overall : 5.9 m

Height: 2.2 m Width: 2.5 m Engine Speed: 105 km/h Output Power: 320 / 340 hp Transmission: Automatic (6 forward gears and 1 reverse)

Defense is also fitted to reinforce the The VAB Mk3 vehicle is promoted as modularity and scalability of the vehicle an ideal candidate to replace previous Technical Specifications while enhancing combat efficiency of generation multirole vehicles like the Protection the complete system. French VAB, the American M113 or the Ballistic protection according STANAG Russian BTR. It offers a very high level Mines (Stanag level 3A and 2B), IED, Engine of protection - up to MRAP levels - but passive and active protection The VAB Mk3 is powered by a 320 or with a far better off-road mobility and a Armour 340 hp Renault engine with a 400 hp en- complete multirole capability. TRT-25 or other medium calibre turrets gine as a later option. It is fitted with in- The VAB Mk3 is moreover much Interference system (Arinc) dependent suspensions, all-wheel drive more affordable than current 8x8 - ar Turret-mounted camera, night vision, la- (6x6), an automatic gearbox and a cen- mored vehicles while offering up to 80% ser and radar warning, countermeasures tral tire inflation system (CTIS) for all- of their capabilities. (ProOptica) terrain mobility. The VAB Mk3 prototype shown at Crew The vehicle can cross a 0.5 meters verti- Eurosatory is equipped with a BAE Sys- 3 crew members + 7 infantrymen cal obstacle or a 0.9 m trench. It has a tems TRT-25 remotely operated turret. max speed of 105 km/h. The VAB Mk3 With the TRT-25 or other medium ca- Gross Weight is also fully amphibious and air trans- liber turrets (one man or remotely oper- 20 tonnes portable by C-130 in some configura- ated), the VAB Mk3 is able to carry 3 tions. crew members plus 7 infantrymen and

30 | Sep 2012 | Issue 488 | becomes a real light infantry combat ve- maximise the VAB Mk3’s endurance for hicle. very long missions. VAB Mk3 is fitted Thales and Renault Trucks Defense Enabling collaborative combat with independent At Eurosatory 2012, Thales and Renault All these services are integrated within Trucks Defense (RTD) have joined forc- the complementary open architectures suspensions, all- es to extend the capabilities of the VAB developed by Renault Trucks Defense Mk3. Under this partnership, the VAB and Thales. wheel drive (6x6), an Mk3 new-generation armoured person- The “Battlenet Inside” system used by automatic gearbox nel carrier benefits from new capabili- Renault Trucks Defense and based on ties. the electronic architectures developed and a central tire Each crew station, fully configurable to by Volvo interconnects all the vehicle the type of mission, displays the real- systems and allows them to operate inflation system time image from a turret-mounted cam- collaboratively. Based on electronic ar- era, providing the three main operators chitectures developed for commercial (CTIS) (infantry squad leader, gunner and driv- markets, “Battlenet Inside” brings the er) with a shared picture of the tactical benefits of COTS solutions to the bat- environment. The turret is also slaved to tlespace after extensive testing on large a hostile fire detection system, enabling fleets of commercial vehicles. the crew to respond more quickly and Thales’s “VSys-net” solution inserts more efficiently to threats. the VAB Mk3 into a broader digitised The vehicle’s internal and external sphere of engagement. As a result, the communications capabilities are a par- crew are able to work collaboratively ticular area of focus. The radio system, both within the vehicle and with other The VAB coupled with the vehicle’s core electron- platforms (armoured vehicles, UAVs, Mk3’s internal ics, ensures voice and data links with the artillery, etc.). The “VSys-net” solution rest of the digitised battlespace, particu- draws on Thales’s extensive experience communication larly other armoured vehicles. in artillery coordination, reconnaissance In addition, the VAB Mk3’s internal vehicle and combat vehicle digitisation network enables communication network offers extend- programmes in France and around the ed range for dismounted operations, world. infantry to stay in enabling infantry to stay in radio con- Through this partnership, Renault tact at distances up to 1,000 metres from Trucks Defense and Thales are able radio contact at the vehicle, depending on which options to offer the very best and most cost- distances up to 1,000 customers choose. effective technical solutions for future Lastly, an exclusive navigation aid in- programmes and ensure continuing de- metres from the corporating route profiles and terrain velopment and support as new require- information, coupled with a hybrid GPS ments emerge • vehicle / inertial navigation system, ensures a high level of geopositioning accuracy and can also be connected to a target designation system. For the pilot, further capabilities include a driving aid with day and night video feeds. Vehicle logistics data such as fuel, munitions, etc. can also be relayed to higher levels of command, allowing the crew to autonomously manage its energy use to

| Issue 488 | Sep 2012 | 31