February-March 2019 Volume 16 No. 1 `100.00 (India-Based Buyer Only) AERO INDIA

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In This Issue >> EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW PhotographS: Indian Army Page 4 Calibrated Modernisation Strategy Model Lt General Kanwal Kumar, DG, Army for Indian Army Aviation with Light Combat Helicopter; (inset) DG in the cockpit of LCH.

Lt General A.B. Shivane (Retd)

Page 8 Control the Night with Thermal Imaging Scopes Thermal Imaging (TI) detects objects based on heat emitted by them. A variety of advanced thermal imaging riflescopes are being used in military roles like patrolling, engaging targets and for use with snipers. Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd)

Page 9 Big Contracts for Small Arms Stage is set for the modernisation of Infantry small arms. Army to get new assault and sniper rifles, carbines this year. Vishal Thapar & Lt General P.C. Katoch (Retd)

Page 10 India, Israel Trust Jointly Developed Air Defence Solutions One of the largest air defence acquisition programmes in India is MRSAM, jointly developed by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) which provides a networked, integrated naval and land-based air defence capability against maneuvering aircraft, UAVs and cruise missiles. SP’s Correspondent

Page 11 Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates India’s First Private Sector Armoured Complex Currently manufacturing K9 Vajra-T howitzers, L&T seeks to make tanks & combat vehicles at this facility. Vishal Thapar ‘LCH is likely to be Page 12 Personal Protection Technology Trijicon offers a vast range of proven sighting systems which can be used for inducted into the varying degree of security threats. Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd)

Page 14 Trijicon Combat Optics Army Aviation Corps in The ACOG is designed to be extremely durable and reliable. It combines traditional, precise distance marksmanship with Close Quarter Battle (CQB) speed. Many variants include a bullet drop compensated (BDC) reticle. the immediate future’ Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd)

Plus Interaction of Jayant Baranwal, Editor-in-Chief of SP’s Land Forces with the News in Brief 15 Director General of Army Aviation Lt General Kanwal Kumar

1/2019 SP’s Land Forces 1 TopGun - Transforming Cannon Fire into Precision Strike

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tegration of the third dimensional One of the largest air de- when the terrorists have access Forces. Private players in col- capability in future wars. Accord- fence acquisition programmes to best weapons and technology. laboration with foreign compa- ingly, the ongoing capability devel- in India is Medium Range SAM Modern technology has en- nies have also joined the fray to opment of Army Aviation is aimed (MRSAM), being developed abled the military to fight dur- cater to the Indian market. at providing integral reconnais- jointly by DRDO and Israel Aero- ing the night, almost as it was The issue wraps up with the sance and surveillance, intimate space Industries (IAI) which will day thus all modern armies are usual news digest. Happy read- tactical lift and direct application of meet the air defence require- equipped with night fighting ca- ing you discerning readers and fire power across the full spectrum ments of the army, navy and pability. Thus there are articles meet you all at the Aero India of operations. This is followed the air force thus a write up is on night vision devices and the Show - Hall E, Stall Number 1.5. by a conceptual article on force included in this issue. latest sighting systems, starting modernisation in which the author There has been a major trac- with Thermal image (TI) scopes suggests that it should include the tion towards filling up critical where the author briefly explains principles of retaining the capac- voids in infantry weapons thus the technology involved and re- The first issue of SP’s Land ity and readiness to accomplish there is an article on small arms views the systems available. Forces­ coincides with the Aero combat superiority, expand new in which the author reviews the The indigenous effort in this India Show 2019 thus the lead ar- capabilities to cope up with the causes of current voids and twist is led by Bharat Electronics Lim- ticle is an exclusive interview with emerging threats, harnessing joint and turns taken to start the pro- ited (BEL) who have established

EDITORIAL Director General Army Aviation Lt force capabilities and optimising cess of filling them up. Infantry BEL Optronic Devices Ltd. (BE- General Kanwal Kumar in which force mix through a combined should be given the best assault LOP) to manufacture and supply Jayant Baranwal he mentions the role and the in- arms force application. rifle and CQB carbine specially these systems to Indian Armed Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

SP’s Land Forces (SP’s): What is the vision DGAA: The ‘Dhruv’ (ALH) is steadily emerging IAF to the Army? What are the timelines? for the development of the Army Aviation as the Aviation workhorse and force multiplier DGAA: It has been decided that all future Corps in line with the Long Term Perspec- of the Indian Army. The helicopter has proved attack helicopter inductions will be for the tive Planning? its mettle in all types of terrain obtained in the Army. Towards this, induction of AH-64E Director General of Army Aviation (DGAA): country ranging from the super high altitude Apache helicopters into the Army is in the In the future battle space, major asymmetry areas to the extremely hot and dusty environs final stages of approval. Meanwhile, the against enemy combat forces can be achieved of the Western sector. The helicopter has also existing attack helicopters and the already by integrated employment of third dimen- pitched in during natural calamities in India contracted 22 x Attack Helicopters will be sional capability. Accordingly, the ongoing and Nepal providing relief to the affected pop- held with the Airforce. capability development of Army Aviation is ulace. Dhruv has been successfully inducted aimed at providing integral reconnaissance into the field formations and is performing all SP’s: In terms of air operations, fleet main- and surveillance, intimate tactical lift and its envisaged operational roles. tenance and air maintenance what mea- direct application of fire power across the full sures have been put in place for greater spectrum of operations. However, while doing SP’s: How is the armed version of ALH jointmanship with the IAF? so, operational dynamics of the field forma- (Rudra) performing and what is the status DGAA: The aspect of greater jointmanship is tions have also been considered to ensure the- of its induction? being addressed by joint courses at training atre specific profiling of aviation assets. DGAA: Rudra helicopters are presently institutes, exchange of aviators, sharing of being exploited in various terrains and are best practices including flight safety courses SP’s: Doctrinally, is more space being cre- getting integrated into the operational role etc. Feasibility of having common operat- ated for integral air elements for futuristic of the Indian Army. The helicopter would ing procedures for maintenance of aviation war fighting by the Army? If yes, how? provide the much needed integral aerial assets is being studied. Air maintenance is DGAA: Army Aviation is not merely the air combat fire power. “It has been decided primarily the responsibility of the IAF. How- component of the Army but an integral part that all future attack ever, the shortfall in availability of IAF fly- of the Combined Arms Team. Its primary SP’s: What are the aggregate final num- ing effort is being made up by Army Chee- mission is to fight the land battle and sup- bers for the Dhruv in AAC plans? helicopter inductions will tah, Cheetal and ALH (Dhruv) helicopters. port ground operations as a manoeuvre arm DGAA: Army Aviation Corps is planned to of ground forces in the Tactical Battle Area have a dedicated utility helicopter fleet of be for the Army. Towards SP’s: What about induction of women pilots? (TBA). The only way to realise this intent is to more than 100 Dhruv helicopters to sup- DGAA: Army Aviation already has women have dedicated integral Aviation assets under port the operations of Indian Army and this, induction of AH-64E officers, who are being directly commis- the Field Force Commander. Towards this provide tactical lift capability to all the field sioned as Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) aim, there is a definite doctrinal shift in profil- formations. Apache helicopters into officers. Besides this, women engineering ing of dedicated utility and combat Aviation the Army is in the final officers are also being posted in Army Avia- assets with the induction of ALH, ALH-WSI SP’s: You had recently flown the HAL’s tion units for maintenance of the helicopter and the impending induction of LCH and Light Combat Helicopter. What are your stages of approval.” fleet. The proposal for inducting women offi- Apache AH-64E, which will be integral to views on its capability? cers as aviators is under examination and is the Army as against the erstwhile capabil- DGAA: The Light Combat Helicopter is a com- being viewed positively. ity of Army Aviation which was restricted to bat helicopter designed for dedicated combat Reconnaissance and Observation tasks alone. roles at par with contemporary attack heli- with the mechanised forces, providing SP’s: What is your vision to support copters in its weight class. It has been tested unmatched fire power and manoeuvrability. the ‘Make in India’ initiative, and what SP’s: What is the status of the procurement in the varied terrains obtained in the country. steps have been taken to support the process for the Ka-226 Light Utility Helicop- Army Aviation test pilots are closely involved SP’s: What is the range of weaponry being Industry to fulfill procurement objectives ters? What are the acquisition time lines? in the development of the helicopter. LCH is sought for combat/armed Army Aviation indigenously? DGAA: The technical evaluation of the Ka- likely to be inducted into the Army Aviation Corps helicopters? DGAA: Army Aviation Corps is leading the 226T proposal is under process. Thereafter, Corps in the immediate future. DGAA: The Apache AH-64E, Rudra and way in support of the ‘Make in India’ ini- the cost negotiations would be carried out LCH would be equipped with a Turret Gun, tiative with majority of fleet being indig- culminating in signing of the contract. SP’s: What would be the roles of Light Rocket system, Air to Air Missile and Anti enously developed viz Advanced Light Heli- Combat Helicopter, Rudra and Apache in Tank Guided Missile. copter, Rudra and Light Combat Helicopter. SP’s: By when is the Chetak/Cheetah fleet Army Aviation Corps? Army Aviation Corps is closely associated expected to be phased out? What are the DGAA: Combat aviation assets with modern SP’s: Is the Army planning to induct with Design and Development of Light Util- measures being taken to ensure the flight avionics, electro-optics and weapon systems medium lift and heavy lift helicopters (like ity Helicopter by HAL as a replacement for worthiness and life extension of this fleet? can perform multiple tasks in the entire the Mi-17 and Chinook)? Chetak/Cheetah. Bulk of Kamov Ka-226T DGAA: The Cheetah/Chetak helicopter will spectrum of conflict in varied and inhospi- DGAA: As of now, medium and heavy lift heli- helicopters will also be manufactured in be phased out based on induction of Ka- table terrain including high altitude areas. copters are being operated by the IAF. How- India. Incidentally, amongst the three ser- 226T and LUH manufactured by the Hindu- The Rudra is a potent combat helicopter ever, in the long term as and when the require- vices Army Aviation has the largest indig- stan Aeronatics Limited (HAL). Timely ser- with an array of armaments including ment is felt, the same will be looked into. enous helicopter fleet ex HAL. vicing and overhauls are being carried out to multiple types of rockets, turret gun and ensure the availability of the helicopters for capability to mount anti-tank guided mis- SP’s: Are there any plans to induct fixed SP’s: What is the vision for Army Aviation all operations. Maintenance and overhaul siles besides state of the art avionics. It can wing aircraft in the future? If yes, what will procurement and maintenance budgets procedures of the fleet are well established. perform a multitude of roles ranging from be their primary role? over the next 20 years? Every aircraft that is flying is fully airwor- armed escort for heliborne operations to DGAA: As of now the requirement of fixed DGAA: Adequate budget is being allocated thy. Management of spares remains work at intimate fire power for various offensive and wing aircrafts for the Army Aviation is not for the envisaged induction of reconnais- hand and induction of replacement helicop- defensive operations. The LCH has a similar envisaged. However, as and when due to sance and surveillance helicopters, attack ters will ease out this challenge. armament profile with enhanced manoeu- operational requirements, the need arises, helicopters and the ammunition for the vrability and armour protection, and is the same will be examined. combat helicopters in a phased manner. SP’s: How is the Dhruv Advanced Light primarily meant for the mountains. The Yearly budget is being allocated for the Helicopter (ALH) performing and what is its Apache is one of the best attack helicopters SP’s: What is the progress on the decision to scheduled maintenance/sustenance of the status of induction? in the world, and will be fully integrated transfer the attack helicopter role from the inducted helicopters. SP

1/2019 SP’s Land Forces 3 >> MODERNISATION Calibrated Modernisation Strategy Model for Indian Army

“Unless India stands up to the world, no one will respect us; In this world, fear has no place; Only strength respects strength”. —Dr APJ Abdul Kalam

Photographs: Indian Army  Lt General A.B. SHIVANE (Retd) and infirmities in the present, which are listed under: n the over seven decades since  The present approach is personality-ori- Independence, there have been trans- ented approach and not an institution- formational changes in the evolving alised approach, resulting in frequent geo-economic, geo-political and geo- cancellations/review even of cases, strategic canvas creating strategic sometimes at advance stage resulting in Iuncertainty impacting the regional cum waste of time and man hours retarding global security. India’s recent trajectory in capabilities. Further, frequent turnovers world arena has given rise to strategic aspi- and lack of an institutionalised mecha- rations and belief of being a regional eco- nism results in often reinventing the nomic and net security anchor. This belief wheel or missing the wood for the trees. stems from its geo-political, geo-economic  In the present dispensation, budget and geo-strategic potential as a nation, seems to be driving modernisation and based on the foundation of its hard power, not vice versa or a balance between soft power and demonstrated capabilities. these conflicting requirements. Resul- Thus, our national interests, strategic secu- tantly schemes which may have mani- rity framework and unresolved border dis- fested to a contract stage after years of putes remain the overarching driver of our effort are not progressed/diluted due to military modernisation plans. Finally, the insufficient budget. economic resilience and financial support  Modernisation endeavours and QRs envelope charters the realisation of our (Qualitative Requirements) are predom- modernisation plans. Ironically the rising inantly driven by acquisition of state- Indian economic landscape has lacked the of-the-art capabilities which are either will of translating economic prowess into unrealistic or cost prohibitive. Lack of military power. While the present govern- pragmatism and quest for ‘top of the ment has taken several policy initiatives line’ capability often result in denial of to foster indigenous military capabilities, even available mature technologies. the execution has been poor and outcomes More often than not the procurement disappointing. Thus, while the threats and and kitting cycle is longer than the tech- challenges to our national security have nological cycle due to sluggish processes magnified and manifested manifold, our and time insensitivity. response remains archival. This trend if not  While there is a scaling committee in addressed can translate to ability of defence place, but the quest for uniform scaling forces to defend the country but not guar- a large military is cost exorbitant and antee security to the nation. often at the cost of another capability. Further, we build capabilities for individ- (Top) Modernisation preserves the Army’s core capability to deter and defeat adversaries through The Modernisation Cauldron combat overmatch, for the present and future conflicts.; (above) Akash medium-range mobile ual entities and not organisational capa- Modernisation preserves the Army’s core surface-to-air missile defence system. bilities, thus when a combined armed capability to deter and defeat adversaries force is applied in battle often disjointed through combat overmatch, for the present the Northern Front and stability on the platforms, equipment, and even ammu- and noncomplementary capabilities and future conflicts. Future force modernisa- internal security front. nition illustrates the point that India has retard their optimal effect in battle. tion thus build on the principles of retaining  Fiscal Environment. The increasing still a long way to go before it becomes  The hard disk memory of defence equip- the capacity and readiness to accomplish mismatch between budgetary require- self-reliant in some critical defence tech- ment scams of the past has given way combat superiority, expand new capabilities ment versus availability and uncertainty nologies. The Technology Perspective for a risk averse culture in the process- to cope up with the emerging threats, har- of assured financial support has led to and Capability Road Map (TPCR) 2018 ing and decision-making chain, espe- nessing joint force capabilities and optimis- an adverse situation. The reality is that is a step in the right direction but needs cially of high value procurements which ing force mix through a combined arms force the defence budget is limited, and will greater elaboration and interaction to merit either a MoF or CCS approval. application. To build and maintain these remain so, due to resources being devi- translate into focusses execution. Further Thus, while there is accountability for fundamental capabilities, we must make ated towards dealing with the national investments in R&D must be encouraged decisions there is no accountability for affordable, sustainable, and cost-effective priorities of development and poverty in the Private Sector on a “Risk Sharing indecisiveness and time e.g. FICV case. decisions which provide versatile and tailor- alleviation. Thus, it becomes essential Gain Sharing” formulation.  Modernisation, expansion and suste- able capabilities. Thus, the Army Modernisa- to utilise the limited resources optimally. nance are not balanced within the mea- tion Cauldron must address the operational, The challenge lies in either an ‘Army Inadequacies in the Present Approach gre budgetary allocation. Expansion technological and fiscal realities to achieve sized to Budget’ or a ‘Budget sized to the to Modernisation and modernisation cannot go hand in the stated objectives as elucidated below: Army’. Given the Indian environment a Although modernisation is an ongoing hand. Further, modernisation and sus-  Operational Environment. The great- pragmatic approach would be a mean of process however, there are inadequacies tenance are two sides of the same coin. est danger to our Nation continues to be both and the need to fine balance the trio This balance needs to be addressed to external aggression with collusive threat of 3 M’s – ‘Money-Manpower-Moderni- obviate voids and foster prioritised mod- from adversaries as well as internal sation’. Within the budgetary allocation ernisation needs. instability due to state/non-state spon- we need to a improve the skewed revenue Indian Army of the future sored proxy war, thus imposing multi to capital ratio to 60:40, along with a must be equipped and Aligning Ends, Ways and Means front challenges in various dimensions, pragmatic approach to balancing the Resource availability cannot dictate the ranging from warfare in the non-contact sustenance and modernisation needs. ready to fight and win ends required for the Army, but its calibra- domain, to an all-out full spectrum war.  Technological Environment. Techno- tion defines both the ways and means to The security challenges of tomorrow can logical superiority always offers militaries India’s wars through achieve those ends. The ends are defined be met, to a great extent, with the capa- a warfighting advantage as also a deter- as the capacity to accomplish combat over- bilities that we sustain, upgrade, develop, rent value. The weak Indian defence R&D indigenous solutions, match across the entire spectrum of con- replace and modernise today. This is the and inadequate indigenous military tech- flict, in an essentially tri-service synergised window for hard decisions and prioriti- nology base have led to import of tech- jointly over the entire combined arms battle space. The ways are to sation if we have to realise the military nologies further aggravated with poor balance needs with limited resources so as objectives of punitive deterrence on the absorption capabilities in terms of skill spectrum of conflict to align to the operational environment and

www.spslandforces.com Western Front, credible deterrence on and time. The acquisition of high-tech emerging technologies, innovate for opera-

4 SP’s Land Forces 1/2019

>> MODERNISATION

Budgetary Constraints Force Army to Drop Big Programmes Focus on Infantry modernisation, artillery and air defence

PhotographS: L&T Heavy Engineering  Vishal Thapar bat Helicopter. “The LCH has done well. It is making good progress. The altitudes at which it has operated gives us con- he 2019-20 Budgetary allocation for the fidence. We need to take a call at Aero India next month,” he Indian Army’s modernisation programmes through had said, hinting that a contract for the first lot of the indig- T capital acquisition route is pegged at `29,447.28 enous attack helicopters could be signed at Aero India in Feb- crore. After meeting committed liabilities of approximately ruary. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited announced recently `21,600 crore, this leaves about `7,800 crore for initial that the weapons trials on the LCH, including the firing of the payments for new contracts. Mistral air-to-air missile, are complete. The Army is expected Of the capital allocation for the Army, `2,115.43 crore to sign up for an initial lot of five LCH gunships. is budgeted for Aircraft and Aeroengines, `2,128.05 crore But the asset which the Army really has set its heart for is for Heavy and Medium Vehicles and `18,562.15 crore the American Apache, which is central to the Army’s aspira- under the ‘Other Equipment’ head. A meatier revenue allo- tion to taking over the attack helicopter role from the Indian cation of `20,337.40 crore has been made for Stores, of Air Force. “We’re confident that the Apache (attack helicop- which the substantial part is for purchase of ammunition. ter) will be signed. We’ve tagged our requirement along with These figures provide a broad indication of the direc- the Indian Air Force (IAF)’s. The issue is who will control tion of Army modernisation spending. But it’s clear that the attack helicopters. The role and charter for which we’re budgetary constraints have forced the Army to reprioritise K9 VAJRA-T 155mm 52 Cal howitzer inducting the Apache needs to be decided,” the Army Chief its programmes and optimising its spending to met its most had said, referring to the Army-IAF turf war over control of immediate requirements. launched soon for acquiring 650,000 assault rifles and the attack helicopter role. The Army has projected an initial This has led to the foreclosure of big Army pro- 350,000 carbines. requirement for six Apache gunships. grammes like the Battlefield Management System (BMS) Artillery modernisation, which kicked off in 2018 with The Army continues to acquire the indigenous and the stalling of a dedicated Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) commencement of induction of the M777 ultra light how- Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), and a part of this nfleet secure communication network. The concept of mod- itzers (ULH) and K9 Vajra tracked self-propelled howitzers, is also being weaponised to give it an anti-tank role. “We ernising the Infantry too has shrunk from the wholesome is on track. The Army has also placed an indent for acquir- need better rockets and missiles for the ALH WSI. The Future Infantry Soldier as a System (FINSAS) to acquiring ing Dhanush artillery guns being developed by the Ord- DRDO is developing a rocket and missile for this helicopter. better small arms and personal protection equipment like nance Factory Board. It is also expected to commit itself to If it is able to meet development and production timelines, bullet proof jackets and helmets for soldiers. The big ticket the ATAGS towed gun being developed by the DRDO. these weapons will be indigenously acquired. Otherwise, Future Infantry Combat Vehicle Programme (FICV) too is A new Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (SRSAM) we will go in for imports,” the Army Chief had said. being recast. programme is also close to being signed. This envisages General Rawat had also announced that acquisition of Ahead of Army Day on January 15, the Indian Army every unit of Army Air Defence to be equipped with the hand-launched UAVs for all Infantry battalions deployed Chief, General Bipin Rawat emphasised that his priority SRSAM. This involves technology collabortation between close to unsettled boundaries was another priority. This was to modernise the small arms inventory, while ensuring the Defence Research and Development Organisation is being done to avoid sending troops in harm’s way and better artillery firepower. (DRDO) and a foreign OEM, and subsequent nomination thereby minimising casualties. Just a month after General Rawat’s public statement, of a production agency. Besides, the Army will continue to Efforts are also afoot to find equipment for detect a $91 million contract was signed on February 12 for invest in the indigenous Akash air defence batteries. tunnels being dug along boundaries to abet infiltration of importing 72,400 Sig Sauer SiG-716 assault rifles from There’s also a long-standing need for a new anti-tank terrorists. the US under a Fast Track programme. A similar contract is guided missile (ATGM). After a change of mind on acquiring “Things have changed. It’s time for a relook. The equip- expected soon with Caracal of the UAE for 93,895 carbines. the Israeli Spike, a new decision is expected this year. ment used by the US Army is not our requirement. We are The initial lot of 5,000 sniper guns too has been delivered to Another priority is helicopters for Army Aviation. Gen- modifying our requirement,” General Rawat told SP’s Edi- the Army’s Northern Command. eral Rawat expressed optimism on progress in acquiring the tor-in-Chief Jayant Baranwal, while explaining the repri- More elaborate Make in India programmes will be American Apache gunship and the indigenous Light Com- oritisation of acquisitions. SP

tional payoffs and priorities resources based place first priority on formations most accepted in certain areas to ensure that and dilute our operational readiness for on value, risk and vulnerability. The means operationally critical to be equipped with the more critical areas are added value want of indigenous solutions. are through a tiered spiral modernisation to the best, that is, those facing the greatest while mitigating vulnerabilities.  Organisation and Sector Based Inte- improve existing systems, develop new capa- risk and providing the maximum payoffs  Cost Informed Decisions. Modernisa- grated Capability Equipping. Formation bilities, bridge technology gaps and balance when employed in battle. tion decisions must be both affordable and and unit specific equipping with sector modernisation with sustenance needs.  Spiral Approach to Technology Induc- cost effective within the overall budget to specific force multipliers as sector stores, In addition, our procedures and pro- tion. Enhanced functional capabilities include life cycle costs. The opportunity will produce greater effects rather than cesses for procurement also need to be inno- and increased weapon effectiveness cost of “over-spending” to close a specific diluting equipping and distributing vative, outcome oriented and with greater index contributing to combat overmatch high cost gap is that we will not be able limited assets across the board without accountability to ensure timely modernisa- must dictate the desired technologies. to afford closing several other gaps; thus, major payoffs. A ‘one size fit all’ procure- tion and capability enhancement. The pragmatic effort must be to bridge we must make cost informed decisions to ment may not be adaptable to all our technology gaps and shorten acquisi- manage ‘best bang for the buck’. varied operational terrains and thus A Calibrated Modernisation Strategy tion timelines with induction of modern  Balance Modernisation and Suste- merits review. Model in-service technologies earliest, by way nance. Modernisation and sustenance  Joint Force Capability Focus. In an era The art of the calibrated modernisation will of product improvements in the short cannot be progressed in compartmen- of effect based joint operations, interop- be to balance capability, sustainability, and term. Simultaneously develop R&D for talised mindsets. The fiscal requirements erable and synergised modernisation readiness within the allocated resources to state of art technologies for future time for modernisation must be carefully bal- strategy for joint force capabilities is not achieve the desired ends. This requires us to critical technology infusion in the mid- anced against the fiscal requirements only financially wise but operationally build our equipping priorities based on value, term. In the long term invest into Science necessary for sustaining the force at prudent. The need is to transit from intra vulnerability and risks in temporal terms. and Technology projects for generation hand in its life cycle. Thus, standardi- service and inter service compartmen- The contours of such a strategy will entail: after next disruptive technologies in the sation and commonality of a family of talised disjointed growth to interoper-  Tiered Modernisation. This approach long term. This spiral and progressive platforms and interoperable technolo- ability and interdependency. The newly prioritises in terms of progressive capa- approach based on indigenous solutions gies will reduce sustenance cost with formed DPC would do well to holistically bilities and tiered modernisation while needs to be institutionalised. The need better inventory management. review the joint force capability building mitigating the risks of low funding real- is to encourage indigenous solutions  Indigenous Solutions to Indian Warf- and synergised modernisation through ity. It prioritises a smaller, high readiness and integrate mature technologies with ighting. Indigenous capability is a an integrated approach. status for operationally critical forma- incremental improvements, while invest- critical contributory factor of strategic tions to the fullest extent possible while ing in future disruptive technologies. autonomy. Thus, modernisation must Conclusion ensuring sufficient modernisation for  Risk - Vulnerability Analysis. Risk is a be based on indigenous capabilities even Indian Army of the future must be equipped the balance to be upgraded once funds function of the values of threat, conse- if marginally lower, and where insuffi- and ready to fight and win India’s wars availability improves. Capabilities desired quence, and vulnerability. The objective cient then based on a joint collaboration through indigenous solutions, jointly over must be classified as Operationally Criti- of risk management is to create a level with an Indian firm, ensuring levers in the entire spectrum of conflict. This man- cal (P1), Operationally Necessary (P2) of protection that mitigates vulnerabili- our hand. Our Defence Industrial Base dates a review of Indian Army’s Moderni- and Operationally Desirable (P3). Simi- ties to threats and the potential conse- and Defence R&D need to be boosted sation Strategy from a scheme based and larly scaling or provisioning must be quences, thereby reducing risk to an to make this a reality. The new cat- procedure oriented to a capability based and tiered as Modernisation Level 1 (state of acceptable level. Calibrated modernisa- egorization of Buy IDDM (Indigenously outcome oriented approach, in tune with art) of a smaller force which is at high tion relates to prioritised modernisation Designed Developed and Manufactured) fiscal realities and organisational spending risk, high payoffs and high readiness based on acquisitions adding maximum categorisation/Make I or II/Strategic capacity. The suggested calibrated moderni- priority, while ensuring Modernisation value to combat effectiveness, mitigat- Partnership model must be optimised. sation strategy model is an attempt based on Level 2 (current/modern) of the major- ing critical vulnerabilities and accept- However, where time and operational the need to find the sweet spot of desirabil- ity of the balance force to upgrade when ing certain risks in temporal terms. Risk critical equipment are not available ity, availability and reality for combat over-

SP www.spslandforces.com funds become available. The Army must must be assessed in temporal terms and indigenously, we must not shy away match in future conflicts.

6 SP’s Land Forces 1/2019

>> Night Vision Control the Night with Thermal Imaging Scopes

Thermal Imaging (TI) detects objects based on heat emitted by them. A variety of advanced thermal imaging riflescopes are being used in military roles like patrolling, engaging targets and for use with snipers.

Photograph: Trijicon  Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd) Monocular, Wilcox Interface, ShoeWilcox Helmet-Mount Interface Kit, 60 Hz High- n the early history of warfare, Speed Frame-Rate Download/Video Cable. armies were meant to rest at night as M300W Rifle-Mounted Model. the soldiers could not see in the dark. The IR-PATROL™M300W is a mini rifle- But there was a continuous effort to use mountable system that works as a dedicated the darkness to achieve surprise. Use of or clip-on thermal rifle sight. When not in Imoonlight for aiming and use of stars for use, the optional Wilcox®Side Flip mount navigation are some examples. Simple gad- conveniently flips the IR-PATROL M300W gets like the prismatic compass and other out of the way for zero obstruction. It has navigation aids combined with detailed day fully Adjustable Reticle System, Clip-On time reconnaissance were employed for Mode Included, Optional Wilcox®Side Flip operations at night. But modern technology Mount, Mini Thermal Sight and Objective like image intensifier and thermal imaging Lens Cap. The kit which comes along with has enabled the military to fight during the is IR-PATROL™640x480 Thermal Mon- night, almost as it was day. ocular, Reticle System (with Clip-On mode), Wilcox Interface Shoe, Wilcox Flip Mount Working of a Thermal Imaging – Rifle Base, 60 Hz High-Speed Frame-Rate A Snap Shot Download/Video Cable. Field of View is Thermal Imaging (TI) detects objects based 22°, Magnification E-Zoom is 1x Optical/8x on heat emitted by them. The warmer the Trijicon IR-PATROL Digit, Display Type Digital organic light- object, the more infrared long-wave light it emitting diode (OLED is a light-emitting radiates and the more detectable it is. How- for the ENVG-B. The ENVG family repre- targets and for use with snipers. There are diode display which works without a back- ever it does not have high resolution of the sents helmet-mounted night-vision goggles 12 models to choose including five for hunt- light because it emits visible light). It uses a image as compared to an image intensifier that blend image intensification and long ing. Many thermal systems offer 17 micron CR123 Lithium Battery with a life of 1.5 hr. of the similar field of view. A special lens wave infrared sensors for combat at night, technology and upscale or downscale their @ 60 Hz. Also has EDGE DETECT mode. focuses the infrared light emitted by all of in bad weather, and in smoke and dust. Har- imagery, which creates a significant loss Trijicon SNIPE-IR™. It comes with a the objects in view which is scanned by infra- ris and L-3 Insight are building ENVG II, of detail. Trijicon®thermal optics utilises a 640x480 12 micron VOx sensor and OLED red-detector elements which in turn form a while BAE Systems and DRS are building MicrolR™thermal core that features a 12 digital micro display that gives you clear, detailed temperature pattern called a ther- ENVG III. ENVG III weapon sights also has micron detector LWIR (Long Wave Infra- brilliant imagery at a fast 60 Hz frame-rate mogram. The detector array works very fast an improved resolution and a wider field of Red) Uncooled Technology to deliver high system—even through pitch-black darkness, and obtains the temperature information view which enables rapid target acquisition. performance, clean 640x480 imagery at an has a advanced VisRelay collimating optic in about one-thirtieth of a second to make outstanding 60 Hz frame rate. 12 Micron eliminates parallax. The Trijicon SNIPE-IR the thermogram. The thermogram is trans- Combination of ENVG III and Family 60 Hz High-Speed Frame Rate with VOx is optimized for use with a 4x day optic. NO- lated into electric impulses which are then of Weapons Sights-Individual (FWS-I) (Vanadium Oxide) which responses very SHOT ZERO Sight-In Easy sight-in integra- converted into display data where it appears technology well for infra red. Most thermal sights give tion for accurate calibrations and can be used as various colors depending on the inten- The FWS-I, when mounted on a soldier’s you only one choice for black hot/white hot, in Clip-On, Hybrid and Stand-Alone Modes. sity of the infrared emission. There are two weapon, will transmit its sight picture which are commonly referred to as polarity. Batteries 2 x CR123 with life of 3.5 Hours common types of thermal-imaging devices through radio to the ENVG III, which is Trijicon®thermal optics come with MaxPol @ 60 Hz. The company advises to combine that is Un-cooled and Cryogenically cooled. mounted on a soldier’s helmet. The FWS-I technology for maximum multi-polarity their Trijicon ACOG®combat optic with the Un-cooled is the most common TI device is designed for the M4 and M16 rifles, and control. This feature gives you three modes clip-on SNIPE-IR™thermal sight for having which can operate at room temperature, is can mount on those rifles in front of day of white hot and three modes of black hot so a lethal 24-hour advanced weapons plat- completely quiet and activates immediately. sights that have already been bore-sighted. you can identify your targets in most of the form for maintaining maximum situational However there have been critical develop- The ENVG will combine thermal imaging condition. Trijicon also offers EDGE DETECT awareness and engaging targets. ments in uncooled thermal imagers with with image intensification technology. A Mode, which is an entirely new way to view the use of vanadium oxide and amorphous variety of modes will allow soldiers to see your target with more precision. It is a frac- Indian Perspective silicon which have made them suitable for in their goggles only the image from the tion of the brightness of other modes, so head-mounted applications. Cryogenically ENVG III itself, only the image from the your eyes are not as prone to night blind- Bharat Electronics Limited Optronic cooled is more expensive but has an incred- FWS-I, or a combination of the two. Using ness from the screen. Their thermal system Devices Ltd (BELOP) Image Intensifier ible resolution and sensitivity that result a ‘picture-in-picture’ mode, the image from is built rugged, tough and with MIL-STD- Tube manufacturing facility from cooling the elements. Cryogenically- the FWS-I is displayed at the bottom right 810G standards (which are US Military BELOP (formerly BEL DELFT) is an fully cooled systems can discern a difference as of the image that is coming from the gog- standards). Trijicon aims to ‘Take on the owned subsidiary of BEL which started small as 0.1 C from more than 300m away, gle. This combines the rapid target acqui- Night’ with their thermal imagers. Some manufacturing Gen2 Image Intensifiers in which is enough to tell if a person is hold- sition technology and can be effectively be examples are: collaboration with and as a Joint Venture ing a gun at that distance. The critical con- used for surveillance, aiming weapons dur- with BV DELFT Netherlands in 1994. The siderations for any thermal imager include ing daylight, darkness, adverse weather Trijicon IR-PATROL plant is presently being upgraded to XR- field of view (target size and distance), type and dirty battlefield conditions. This sys- The models include handheld, helmet- 5 grade with a capacity to produce more of surface being measured (emissivity con- tem should be with the U.S. Army by the mounted or weapon-mounted systems. And than 30,000 Image Intensifier Tubes per siderations), spectral response (for atmo- first quarter of 2019. if you already have a day optic sighted in, year. BEL also has plans to produce Micro spheric effects or transmission through L-3’s AN/PSQ-20B ENVG L-3 Insight. the IR-PATROL can be placed in front and Channel Plate (MCP) indigenously with surfaces), temperature range and mounting AN/PSQ-20B ENVG is a helmet-mounted used as a clip-on device for 24-hour tactical ToT from PHOTONIS once the XR-5 is fully (handheld portable or fixed mount). Other dual waveband monocular which enables the usage. All the models have a sensor resolu- established. considerations include response time, envi- user to view images through one eye, but not tion of 640x480. ronment, viewing port or window applica- through two eyes as a binocular device can. Hand Held. LE100 & LE100C have Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) tions and desired signal processing. Fus- The AN/PSQ-20B ENVG provides improved Advanced Thumbstick Controller, Rugge- Night Vision Devices is one of the areas of ing image intensification technology with targeting and identification by fusing image dized System Design, Full Digital Display and strategic interest for Tata Advanced Sys- thermal imagery brings out the best in both intensification technology with thermal Objective Lens Cap. The M250XR (extended tems Limited (TASL). TASL has entered into sensors. Some examples of thermal imagers imagery to bring out the best in both sensors. range)model has 7° FOV, 4.5x Magnifica- a partnership with Exelis Inc., the world being used by military are given below: tion, Stadiametric Rangefinder, 640x480 leader in Gen 3 Image Intensification based Trijicon® Thermal Sensor and image capture. NVDs, to manufacture and supply these Enhanced Night Vision Goggle-Binocu- Trijicon is one of the leading companies Helmet Mounted Model. systems to Indian Defence market. As part lar (ENVG-B) Programme for developing and marketing ‘no-light Wilcox®Interface Shoe, 60 Hz High-Speed of the drive towards achieving indigenisa- To operate more effectively at night, US aiming systems’. It offers a large variety of Frame Rate, Edge Detect Mode, lightweight tion, TASL has set up a production facility Army has given $391.8 million three-year advanced thermal imaging riflescopes for design and Objective Lens Cap. The kit in India, for assembly and manufacture of

SP www.spslandforces.com contract to L-3 Insight during May, 2018 use in military role like patrolling, engaging includes IR-PATROL™640x480 Thermal sub-assemblies and complete systems.

8 SP’s Land Forces 1/2019 >> Small Arms Big Contracts for Small Arms

Stage is set for the modernisation of Infantry small arms. Army to get new assault and sniper rifles, carbines this year.

Photographs: Barrett, Victrix Armaments, Sig Sauer, Caracal  VISHAL THAPAR & tective gear like helmets and bullet proof Lt General P.C. Katoch (Retd) jackets and software defined radios.

India signs contract for assault rifles Background in fast track procurement The Indian Army has been starved for state- India on February 12 signed a `647 crore of-the-art small arms including assault rifles ($91.6 million) contract with the Ameri- and carbines for decades, inability of the gov- can small arms company Sig Sauer for the ernment-owned ordnance factories board import of 72,400 SiG 716 assault rifles. (OFB) to meet the requirement and bureau- This procurement is being done under Barrett’s Model 95 cratic red-tape stymieing imports. The hunt the Fast Track Procedure under the Buy for new assault rifles actually began 18 years (Global) category of the Defence Procure- ago, in 1980, when 17 x 5.56mm rifles from ment Procedure to replace the indigenous 11 countries were imported by Ministry of INSAS rifle. The SiG 716 rifles are to be Defence (MoD) to equip three Para Com- delivered within 12 months of the signing mando battalions and three Para Battalions. of the contract, and will kick off the mod- In 2011, a tender was floated for direct ernisation of the small arms inventory of acquisition of 65,000 new generation the Indian armed forces. assault rifles for the Army costing `4,848 Of the 72,400 Sig Sauer rifles ordered, crore to equip 120 infantry battalions. Ord- 66,400 will go to the Army, 4,000 for the nance Factory Board (OFB) was to then Indian Air Force and 2,000 for the Navy. manufacture over 1,13,000 such rifles The procurement process has been com- through JV with the foreign vendor provid- Beretta’s .338 Lapua Magnum Scorpio TGT pleted in just over a year. The Acceptance ing ToT. The rifle was to weigh around 3.5 of Necessity for this rifle was given by the kg with advanced night-vision, holographic Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on Janu- reflex sights, laser designators, detachable ary 16, 2018. under-barrel grenade launchers etc. How- While there was an urgency to acquire ever, the OFB came up with the ‘Excalibur’ these rifles in these numbers, a larger Make assault rifle, by making cosmetic changes in India procurement programme will be to the INSAS rifle. Not meeting Army’s initiated soon for 6,50,000 assault rifles. It requirements, it was rejected and the whole has been reported recently that a Govern- process for procuring assault rifles started ment-to-Government deal with Russia may once again. In May 2015, the request for be in the works to produce the AK-103 in Sig Sauer’s SiG 716 proposals (RFP) for the assault rifles was collaboration with the Government’s Ord- scrapped by MoD, forcing the Army in Sep- nance Factory Board. tember 2016 to re-launch its global hunt for “The Indian armed forces are presently around 2,00,000 new-generation 7.62mm equipped with the 5.56x45mm INSAS rifle. x 51mm assault rifles after similar bids over There is an urgent requirement for replac- last decade were shelved on various grounds ing this rifle with a 7.62x51mm assault rifle including corruption. In 2016, the MoD also which is compact, robust, modern in tech- scrapped tender issued in 2010 for 44,618 nology and simple to maintain in field condi- close-quarter battle carbines. On January tions,” a Ministry of Defence official said. 17, 2018, media reports stated: “13 years The Sig Sauer rifle will be the first Amer- after request, Army to get 1.6 lakh rifles, ican Infantry weapon for the Indian Army carbines”. The defence acquisition council in over five decades. (DAC) headed by the Defence Minister, had Sig Sauer’s offer for the SiG 716, which cleared fast-track procurement of 72,400 fires a 7.62mm round, emerged the lowest assault rifles and 93,850 close quarter battle bid (L1) in a competition also involving Rus- (CQB) carbines for `3,547 crore from the sia’s Kalashnikov, Arsenal, Israel’s IWI and global market. Tenders were to be floated UAE’s Caracal. while procurement could also be done on It is also learnt that a fast tracked con- government to government basis. Approval tract with Caracal, a UAE-based company, for these limited emergency purchases came for 93,895 carbines too is close to being after repeated scrapping of tenders, mainly signed. The imported Caracal carbine will because of allegations of graft, as well as Caracal’s CAR816 begin the replacement process for the vin- OFB’s inability to provide state-of-the-art tage 9mm Sterling carbine. Under a sepa- small arms over almost two decades. rate ‘Make in India’ programme, an addi- and the American Barrett M95 will replace materials rifle (AMR), in the role of a bunker Following MoD issuing RFP for acquisi- tional 3,50,000 carbines will be acquired. the ageing Soviet-origin Dragonov sniper buster to target enemies holed up behind tion of 72,400 assault rifles, 93,895 CQB car- The companies bidding for the ‘Make in rifles in the Indian inventory. These will fortified defences. This .50 calibre weapon bines promised to Infantry, soldiers deployed India’ carbine programme include Caracal, scale up the Indian capability to counter the has a kill range of 1,800 metres, and will on borders with China and Pakistan under the Colt, IWI, S&T Motiv and Baretta. threat on the LoC. supplement the Indian Army’s Denel AMR’s fast track programme (FTP), government sent There’s yet another programme for SP’s Land Forces had reported the acquired from South Africa post the Kargil out a nine-member delegation to US, Austra- acquiring 16,800 Light Machine Guns. announcement on the new sniper rifles by War in 1999. lia, South Korea, Israel and UAE to scout for the Indian Army Ch ief General Bipin Rawat Open source information on the .338 assault rifles and CQB carbines to trial evalu- Indian Army getting sniper guns used at a press conference in New Delhi on Janu- calibre Beretta Lapua Magnum suggests ate the rifles and carbines of the original in Afghanistan, Iraq ary 10 but the General did not then specify that while it was developed to penetrate equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of vendors Italian Berreta Lapua Magnum and Ameri- the make of the guns. The specifics were body armour at a range of 1,000 metres, of these countries. The FTP selection was to can Barrett M95 guns to replace the ageing confirmed later by Army sources. it has been effectively used for kills up to be based on operational requirements, not on Soviet-origin Dragonov rifles. The Northern Command is getting the 1,500 metres and beyond, and accounts for process of general staff qualitative require- Pressed by new threats on the Line of Con- first lot of these guns as an emergency pur- some record breaking sniper shots. ments (GSQR), field trials, staff evaluation etc, trol (LoC), the Indian Army is acquiring sniper chase from special funds delegated to Army General Rawat had made this announce- as per a MoD official. The weapons found suit- rifles which have been used by allied forces in Commanders. “These will arrive by January ment in the context of putting the Infantry able by the empowered committee were then the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. These are 20,” General Rawat announced. “The bal- foot soldier at the heart of the Army’s pro- to be brought to India by the OEMs for “com- the Italian Beretta .338 Lapua Magnum Scor- ance 5,000 guns (for equipping Infantry curement agenda. Many other big ticket patibility trials” with Indian ammunition. The pio TGT and the American Barret M95. and special units other than those in Kash- programmes including the Battlefield Man- FTP for acquiring 16,479 light machine guns The procurement of an estimated 5,719 mir) will come under a capital acquisitions agement System and Tactical Communica- (LMGs) was also approved by MoD in Febru- of these sniper rifles has been fast tracked programme,” he elaborated. General Rawat tion System have been dropped. Even the ary 2018. These purchases are to be followed on account of the Indian Army being described these rifles as “amongst the best in ambitious FINSAS programme itself has by a larger ‘Make in India’ project for equip- repeatedly targetted by Pakistani snipers on the world”. been reduced to acquiring a good assault ping the Army including 382 infantry battal- the LoC. The Italian Beretta Lapua Magnum The Barret M95 is also used as an anti- rifle and carbine for the Infantry, and pro- ions and 63 Rashtriya Rifles battalions. SP

1/2019 SP’s Land Forces 9 >> Air Defence India, Israel Trust Jointly Developed Air Defence Solutions One of the largest air defence acquisition programmes in India is MRSAM, jointly developed by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) which provides a networked, integrated naval and land-based air defence capability against maneuvering aircraft, UAVs and cruise missiles.

Photographs: IAI  SP’s Correspondent

ith the emergence of new, highly sophisticated aerial threats, investments in air defence capabilities are growing at a rapid pace. WMaintaining one of the world’s largest mili- tary forces, India is heavily invested in the air defence modernisation, fielding new systems modernising older weapons and replacing obsolete systems with modern, state-of-the-art capabilities for all three ser- vices – Air Force, Navy and Army. One of the largest air defence acquisi- tion programmes in India is MRSAM, jointly developed by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). In some of the projects, Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) is the main con- tractor and lead integrator. MRSAM has been acquired in multiple orders as a common defence building block, for all armed forces in (Left) IAI’s SkyCapture system; (Right) IAI’s MRSAM missile during the test India – Navy, Air and Land. MRSAM provides a networked, integrated naval and land-based air defence capabilities with MRSAM fielded defence system implementing unique fire- as the prime contractor for the Arrow 2 air defence capability against maneuvering with indigenously built vessels. In this on-the-move technology to defeat low and and Arrow 3 missile defence systems and aircraft, UAVs and cruise missiles. application vertically launched MRSAM high-flying targets at medium and short provider of key elements for other widely With plans to extend the missile’s range is designed to engage the most challeng- range while protecting the moving ground deployed air and missile defence systems. to 150 km (ER version) the combined fire ing threats, from saturation attacks by forces. Equipped with a new seeker that Parts of the Arrow anti-ballistic mis- unit operating two missiles ranges could supersonic sea skimming missiles or highly enables all-weather operations, and a mis- sile system. The system employs large early quadruple its area coverage in the future, maneuverable, high flying targets. sile designed for agility and engagement of warning radars, battle management sys- as the ER will be able to seamlessly with The Indian Army also intends to field targets at all altitudes, MRAD has demon- tems and Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 intercep- MRSAM units. Using the same intercep- short range quick reaction capabilities and strated the capability to deploy rapidly, oper- tors, the system is designed to defeat ballistic tor strapped to a booster, the ER missile has selected IAI’s SkyCapture system to ate on the move and simultaneously engage missiles in exo-atmospheric and endo-atmo- will more than double the intercept range modernise, enhance and coordinate exist- multiple targets. spheric engagements, targeting missiles and reaching 150 km, while keeping same set ing air defence artillery, as well as current These successes are based on the experi- warheads at their mid-course and terminal of sub-systems and spares to enable a most and future short-range missile systems. IAI ence IAI has gained in 60 years of develop- phases. While the Arrow system is exclu- efficient life cycle cost. This range extension has developed and successfully live fired ing and supplying Air and Missile Defence sively used by Israel, related system includ- may be used by all three services, already under Indian Army demonstration, a quick systems for customers worldwide. IAI has ing the ELM-2090 Terra and ELM-2080 operating the current 70 km MRSAM. The reaction surface-to-air (QRSAM) capabil- led the development of Israel’s multi-lay- Green Pine early warning radars have been Indian Navy also modernises many of its ity with the MRAD interceptor, a 30 km air ered ballistic missile defence programme, exported to some allied countries. SP MRSAM becomes India’s Standard for Air Defence capability

Photograph: IAI The Medium Range Surface-to-Air Mis- the Navy, Army and Air Force. IAI stepped sile System (MRSAM) began in the mid- down to the lead sub-contractor position 2000s as an air defence system defending and continues to supply systems and com- against all types of threats, manned and ponents to BEL. unmanned aircraft, sea skimming missiles, Despite the change, the further growth and guided weapons. The programme was is expected to maintain the momentum. officially launched in 2006 as a coopera- IAI regards the program as one of its pri- tive development between Israel and India mary growth engines, as Barak 8 has led by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and gained contractual commitments surpass- DRDO. In 2017 the system, became the ing $6 billion in sales world-wide. de-facto standard for Indian air defences, As other large-scale programs, MRSAM selected by all three Indian military ser- relies on local production and participa- vices – the Navy, Air Force and Army. tion. To meet these obligations IAI has The largest operator is the Indian Navy, transferred to India large work share to where MRSAM was selected for installa- enable Indian companies to join the pro- tion on 15 first line surface combatants. gram as sub-contractors. Over 40 Indian Three P15A (Kolkata Class) destroyers are suppliers are already involved in the pro- already operationally protected by the sys- gram. Sub-systems and components are tem. Deliveries of MRSAM for four P15B developed and manufactured in India and as well as seven P17A destroyers is under Barak-8 missile delivered to assembly lines at IAI and BEL. progress, along with a system destined to IAI also leads the vision to establish protect the first indigenous aircraft carrier - The Indian Air Force is also committed 2017 was a milestone for the pro- centralised national MRSAM infrastruc- the Vikrant. Last year another contract was to field 18 air defence batteries while the gramme, moving to full scale production. ture that will provide Indian services in- signed, for the supply of MRSAM systems Indian Army has acquired a first group of Embracing the government’s ‘Make in country, self-reliance for maintenance and for seven P17A frigates. In addition, the the land-based MRSAM, along with the India’ policy, India’s Bharat Electronics repair for the next decades. This tri-service system was also selected to protect the first infrastructure of command, control, train- (BEL) was nominated as the prime con- center will ensure the Indian independence line vessels of the Israeli Navy - the four ing and support facilities to support addi- tractor and lead integrator position for the in MRSAM through a joint venture with a new SAAR 6 Magen class vessels. tional four groups in the future. production and delivery of the systems to local Indian company. SP www.spslandforces.com

10 SP’s Land Forces 1/2019 >> Indigenization Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates India’s First Private Sector Armoured Complex

Currently manufacturing K9 Vajra-T howitzers, L&T seeks to make tanks & combat vehicles at this facility

Photograph: PIB  Vishal Thapar L&T describes its ASC as a state-of- the-art facility with a capability to make, emonstrating momentum besides artillery guns, futuristic tanks to his Government’s ‘Make in and armoured vehicles under the Army’s India’ agenda for military equip- Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCV) and ment, Prime Minister Narendra Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICV) pro- Modi on January 19 inaugurated grammes. Besides high-end machinery and DIndia’s first private sector facility for making automation aids and feeder shops, it has full- tanks, armoured vehicles and artillery guns fledged mobility Test Tracks for acceptance at Hazira in Gujarat. and qualification of armoured vehicles. Larsen & Toubro’s Armoured Systems The `4,366 crore contract for the K9 Allisson Creative 2.pdf 1 25/10/16 3:44 PM Complex (ASC), in the course of its inau- Vajra-T guns is the largest awarded to a Allisson Creative 2.pdf 1 25/10/16 3:44 PM guration by the Prime Minister, showcased private sector company by the Ministry of before him the K9 Vajra-T self-propelled Defence. L&T, in partnership with South tracked howitzer that it being manufac- Korean Hanwha, was declared the winner tured there currently. One hundred of these in a global procurement competition for 155mm, 52 calibre artillery guns will be these guns. Hanhwa is providing key tech- supplied to the Indian Army to give punch nologies for this gun programme. and mobility to its firepower along the bor- “The (K9-Vajra-T) programme embod- ders in the deserts and the plains. ies the spirit of the Government’s ‘Make in Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting L&T’s Armoured Systems Complex in Surat, Gujarat “Boosting ‘Make in India’ in the Defence India’ initiative by large scale indigenous sector is our endeavour. I am glad that the production of various equipment and sys- private sector too is supporting this pursuit tems for cost efficient through life support, and making a valuable contribution,” Modi through in-house development as well as tweeted after inaugurating the complex. transfer of technology, and judicious mix “I congratulate the entire team of Larsen of L&T’s in-house manufacturing facilities & Toubro for building the state-of-the-art K9 as well as multiple tiers supply chain. L&T Vajra Self Propelled Howtizer. This is a sig- Defence has played a catalyst’s role in devel- nificant contribution towards India’s defence oping the ecosystem of partners mainly sector and protecting the country,” he added. from the MSME sector,” said J.D. Patil, L&T’s Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Senior EVP (Defence). was also present on the occasion at the com- One 100 guns have been contracted to be plex, where L&T also famously manufac- delivered in 42 months, along with an asso- tured the hulls for India’s indigenous ballistic ciated engineering support package cover- missile firing nuclear-powered Arihant class ing spares, documentation and training and SSBN submarines at a neighbouring facility. Maintenance Transfer of Technology to the The ASC is spread over 40 acres within L&T’s Army Base Workshop to support the K9-Vajra C 755-acre Hazira manufacturing complex. regiments throughout their life cycle. Having C “L&T has been supplying critical high delivered the first 10 systems ahead of schedM - M technology equipment to the Indian Navy ule, this complex is poised to deliver the Ybal-

from Hazira and the ASC will now, in addi- ance 90 within the next 22 months. Y tion, address the needs of the Indian Army L&T is delivering these guns with 50CM per CM and friendly Nations to whom Govt of India cent indigenous content by value. The MakeMY

MY promotes Defence Manufacturing Partner- in India package involves local productionCY

ship,” said S. N. Subrahmanyan, the engi- of over 13,000 components per gun systemCY neering giant’s CEO and MD. through a supply chain of about 400 Tier-ICMY CMY The armoured facility is L&T’s 10th manufacturers, 100 of which are MSMEs.K manufacturing unit for Defence production, Fourteen critical sub-systems have beenK and its seventh raised over the past decade. developed indigenously by L&T, including the Fire Control System, Direct Fire System, and the Ammunition Handling System. “I congratulate the entire Auxiliary Power Packs, Air-conditioning Systems, Fire Fighting Systems, and NBC team of Larsen & Toubro Protection Systems have also been devel- oped in-house. for building the state- L&T’s Hazira Complex is among the few facilities in the world that produces extra- of-the-art K-9 Vajra Self large offshore modules, reactor-end shields and steam generators for nuclear power Propelled Howitzer. This is plants, high-end equipment for the hydro- Tel: +91 11 4120 0400 a significant contribution carbon, thermal power and Defence seg- Fax: +91 11 4120 0405 ments, as also ultra-clean special steels and Email: [email protected] towards Indiaís defence heavy Forgings. At Hazira, L&T Defence manufactures sector and protecting the submarine hulls and range of platform specific equipment and subsystems and country.” special alloy forgings for Defence applica- tions. At its Advanced Composites Facility —Prime Minister Narendra in Ranoli, Gujarat, it makes critical com- posite sub systems for India’s Space Launch Modi on Twitter Vehicles and sub systems for BrahMos and Akash missiles. SP Allision creative revised.indd 1 25/10/16 4:10 PM

1/2019 SP’s Land Forces 11 >> technology Personal Protection Technology

For those large number of personnel from military and law enforcement agencies who carry out protection duties, Trijicon offers a vast range of proven sighting systems which can be used for varying degree of security threats

Photographs: Trijicon  Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd) mid-position “off” feature. Adjusters provide positive-click reticle movement in ½-MOA rijicon offers optics that increments and require no special tools for are designed to help individuals operation. Sights on a target rifle are adjust- and security personnel to defend able in units of measurement called minutes people and property they are of angle (MOA). Multi-coated lenses provide tasked to protect. They can carry superior clarity and light-gathering capa- Tout this role quickly and efficiently if they bilities with zero distortion and provide for a can first defend themselves. For those large crisp dot reticle. Dry nitrogen-filled to prevent number of personnel from military and fogging. MRO Red Dot: 5 years of continuous law enforcement agencies who carry out use at day setting “3” (setting 5 of 8) at 70°F; protection duties; Trijicon offers optical and MRO Green Dot: 1 year of continuous use at iron sights which are reliable under the day setting “3” (setting 5 of 8) at 70°F. Elec- toughest conditions. They are also designed tronics are warranted for 5 years from date to be easy to handle by civilians, giving of original manufacture. The Trijicon MRO® everyday citizens the confidence they need was specifically engineered with a slightly when confronted with a life-threatening canted objective lens, allowing for a shorter situation. optic while minimising reflections. MRO Patrol Lens caps protect glass from damage Model Options and help reduce glare and reflection. Trijicon offers a large variety of mod- els which suit multiple threat scenarios Trijicon HD XR™ Night Sights and budgets. In the Magnified Optics, it Trijicon offers six sights in the Iron Sights offers Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight range i.e. Bright & Tough Night Sights; (ACOG), AccuPoint and AccuPower. In the Bright & Tough Suppressor Night Sights; reflex sights there are four models to choose HD Night Sights; HD XR Night Sights; Triji- from i.e. MRO, Reflex, RMR and SRS. In the con® Fiber Sights and TrijiDot® Fiber Optic Iron Sights there are- Bright and Tough Shotgun Sights. HD XR Night Sight meets Night Sight, HD Night Sight, HD XR Night the future challenges of the security forces Sight and Trigidot. All these sights are very and law enforcement agencies. Building versatile and can be used with a variety of on the features of the current HD™ Night hand held weapons. Sight, the Trijicon HD XR™ night sight are Details of some models-one from each for the next level of advanced target identi- type are given below: fication and engagement at increased dis- tances. A thinner front sight post allows Trijicon AccuPower® shooters to have a larger field of view which The Trijicon AccuPower is a versatile, vari- further enhances the ability to identify tar- able powered riflescope with an electronic gets, expedite engagements and see location illuminated reticle. Featuring a high quality of hits on target at longer distances. Pistol lens system with full multi-layer coatings, shooters that need the advantage of a more the AccuPower provides an incredibly clear (Top) Trijicon AccuPower; (above) TrijiDot. precise engagement in any light can rely sight picture. Due to multi-coating on the on the Trijicon HD XR™ Night Sights. Thin lenses they provide superior clarity and light- the image from the objective not being copla- housing ends up as the ultimate mini reflex front post promotes a larger field of view for gathering capability with zero distortion. nar with the reticle. The weight of the small- sight on the market. There are three models fast target identification and engagement at The First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle is 1-8x28 est model is 16.2oz (459gms) and the largest of MRO® i.e. MRO®(Red Dot), MRO®(Green longer distances. Glow-in-the-dark, photo- and 4.5-30x56 FFP and the reticle subten- model is 36.0oz (1020.6gms). Dot) and MRO®(Patrol(Red Dot). The MRO® luminescent-painted front outline combines sions and used for ranging and wind, and Patrol adds lens covers for both the ocular with a “U” notch rear and black-painted rear will remain constant at any magnification, Trijicon MRO® and objective lenses, along with an Anti- outlines to quickly draw your eye to the front allowing the user to rapidly apply the correct The Trijicon MRO® (Miniature Rifle Optic) Reflection Device KillFlash® that protects you post in all lighting conditions. Steeply hooked hold. 1-8 is the magnification range and 28 and the MRO® patrol is a sealed miniature from unwanted detection or in bright condi- front surface is meant for an emergency for is the diameter of the objective (front) lens in reflex sight intended for use on rifles, car- tions while eliminating glare. The front lens one-handed slide manipulation. Tritium millimeters. The same definition is applicable bines and shotguns to provide fast target on the MRO, and MRO Patrol is installed at a phosphor-filled glass lamp illuminates sights to all such specifications. Second focal plane acquisition. The large aperture and tapered precise angle in order to properly reflect the for high visibility in all lighting conditions. (SFP) reticle size remains constant as mag- light path maximizes the viewing area and red dot back to the user’s eye. This angled Tritium gas lamps are contained within nification increases, which provides a more allows for better situational awareness and objective lens is common to all reflex style protective aluminum cylinders and have exact aiming point at higher magnifica- fast target engagement – especially from optics. It may be more noticeable on the MRO additional silicone rubber cushioning. Each tions. The reticle illumination is powered by non-standard shooting positions. Combin- than some other optics due to the increased Trijicon®tritium lamp is capped with a sap- a single CR2032 lithium battery and has an ing all these features with the ambidextrous size of the lens. The earlier models did have phire jewel that helps evenly distribute the easy-to-operate brightness adjustment dial brightness controls, sub-flush adjusters, a very slight magnification of 1.05x which is light and also acts as an additional layer of with eleven brightness settings and an “off” advanced lens coatings and the fully sealed, within the range of competitive reflex-style protection from puncture and cleaning sol- feature between each setting. The Accu- waterproof, hard anodized forged 7075-T6 sight. Responding to customer feedback Tri- vents. Tritium lamp is warranted to illumi- Power features a hard anodized aluminum jicon later on adjusted the magnification in nate for 12 years from date of original manu- body that protects against corrosion and MROs to have a magnification of 1.00x or no facture. Standard-Height models fit Beretta, is waterproof to ten feet (3m). It is also has With a generous magnification. Like all reflex-style optics, the FN® America, Glock®, H&K®, Sig Sauer®, an all-weather rugged construction which Trijicon MRO is parallax-free when the dot Smith & Wesson and ®Springfield Armor. protects the sight from adverse weather adjustment range for and target are reasonably well centered in Trijicon offers a vast range of proven conditions. Dry nitrogen is filled to prevent windage and elevation, the optic’s field-of-view, but when the reticle sighting systems which can be used for fogging. With a generous adjustment range and target are substantially off-axis, there varying degree of security threats. Army’s for windage and elevation, precise adjust- precise adjustment will be some parallax. The off-axis parallax installations, which are away from the bor- ment increments, and a re-settable zero, the performance of the MRO meets or exceeds der, like unit/brigade/ base camps, logistic AccuPower riflescope delivers the precision increments, and a that of other reflex sights of similar size. bases and ammunition depots are always required for pinpoint accuracy. Electron- The large viewing area allows faster target under constant threat in the northern and ics carries a warranty for 5 years from date re-settable zero, the acquisition and engagement with reduced eastern sector. At present they are guarded of original manufacture. They have seven “tube effect.” The brightness control dial is with basic rifles/machine guns with normal models ranging from 1-4x24 to 5-50 x56. AccuPower riflescope equally usable by left or right-handed opera- iron sights. So is the case of Naval and Air Parallax Adjustment Range for 10/20 yards tors without having to remove hand from fire Force installations thus providing better to infinity is available only in the last three delivers pinpoint accuracy control. Eight brightness settings, including quality of sights will by it self upgrade their

SP www.spslandforces.com larger models. Parallax problems result from two night vision-compatible settings with a protection capability manifold.

12 SP’s Land Forces 1/2019 >> marketing feature Pantsir-S1 Modular Design Air-Defence Missile-Gun System Adapted for Various Combat Employment

he analysis of the latest local tracks in conditions of complicated ter- conflicts shows that high-precision rain pattern; air assault weapons along with  targets detection over water and even unmanned aerial vehicles are of pri- desert surface; mary importance among air threats.  determination of optimum frequency- TThe large number and high density of air spatial separation to provide electro- threats in an air strike require the air-defence magnetic compatibility, within the assets to provide not only high combat perfor- existing AD system as well, taking into mance but a large ready-to-fire ammunition consideration particular topographical load and capability of its quick replenishment. pattern of the Customer; Nowadays and in the near future Pan-  integration into Customer’s existing IFF tsir-S1 Air-Defence Missile-Gun System system; (ADMGS) fully satisfies all requirements for  minimizing of time required for shap- fighting modern air threats thanks to the ing of search and track zones by a topo- specific features of its design: graphic map (with limited resolution in  combined missile and gun armament azimuth) thanks to the use of built-in that allows to create an entire engage- mapping computer and digital maps of ment zone of up to 20 km in range and the particular Customer; up to 15 km in altitude;  integration into Customer’s existing air-  jam-proof multimode and multispectral defence system and creation of a poten- radar-optical control system operating tial for AD system development basing in decimetric, millimetric and infrared on the combat actions control principle wavebands; implemented in Pantsir-S1 ADMGS;  automatic operation;  implementation of various ways of  capability to fire on the move and from SAMs destruction ensuring safety short stops; of their use according to Customer’s  short reaction time of 4-6 sec due to requirements: automatic tracking of up to 20 targets a) air-blast initiated by a command on by a search radar and high-precision climb trajectory; target designation (0.3° in azimuth, b) air-blast initiated by a command on 0.5° in elevation, 60 m – in range) pro- dive trajectory; viding for quick fine search and target c) dive trajectory without air-blast, lock-on by multifunction tracking radar destruction by ground impact. and optronic system; Modular structure, unification of units  self-contained combat operation and and assemblies design ensure successful coordination of actions within a battery; integration into Customer’s existing chassis  simultaneous firing against four targets vides for its installation onto various chassis nents of a common air-defence system; maintenance system, supply of maximum within a sector of ± 45 ° in azimuth and including tracked one as well as for creation  complicated geotopographical condi- unified individual, common, and base- elevation. of stationary and sea-based variants of the tions dictate the necessity of flexible stored SPTA kits, arrangement of service Pantsir-S1 high performance specifica- system (for protecting sea oil platform, vital target distribution both between com- centers and crews training system. tions make an AD system equipped with it administrative, military-tactical and other bat vehicles (CVs) within a battery and Constant combat readiness of the Pan- significantly superior over the SHORAD sys- objects), for installation of the system onto within a common air-defence system; tsir-S1 system is ensured by built-in test tems manufactured worldwide. railway platforms, ensuring its integra-  continuous growth of high-precision equipment in each combat and mainte- Pantsir-S1 underwent a large scale of tion into Customer’s existing maintenance, weapons and UAVs among air threats nance vehicle. live tests and proved its high performance in training and logistics systems with mini- imposes a specific requirements to the Modular design allows to develop vari- various conditions of combat use. mum cost. The said approach also provides use of anti-aircraft systems consisting ous variants of the system and install it onto Development of the Pantsir-S1 ADMG for development of the system variants tak- in capability of combat vehicle opera- a range of chassis as well as to develop its system adapted for a wide range of Custom- ing into account particular geotopographi- tion without radar emission getting the stationary modifications. ers required solving a number of scientific cal conditions in which the system is to be required data from neighboring CVs and The system can be installed onto lightly and technical challenges. used by the Customer. remote search radars. armoured vehicles and can be used as lethal Among them are: Moreover, the modular design of the sys- Availability of mapping computer with air-transportable AD asset. It can also be  layout and structural challenges to tem ensures its capability to be upgraded in digital maps ensures efficient automatic mounted on wheeled and tracked chassis in ensure modular design of the system; future in terms of increasing its combat effi- planning of combat actions taking into Air Force Air Defence Units and on Navy ships.  development of the new multifunction ciency with minimum cost that undoubtedly account particular geotopographical condi- Nowadays and in the near future Pantsir- radar for target and missile tracking; raises its commercial interest for the Customer. tions of the Customer. S1 ADMGS fully satisfies all requirements for  communicational integration of the Outfitting Pantsir-S1 system with the The task of protecting the transmitted successful fighting modern air threats. Pantsir-S1 into Customer’s Armed multifunction tracking radar ensuring track- data from jamming was successfully solved. Appropriateness of the implemented Forces; ing of three targets and transmission of con- When a command post is used as a part of technical solutions and high performance  development and integration of IFF sys- trol commands to four SAMs provided for the system an increase in data transmission specifications of the Pantsir system were tem customized for the particular Cus- efficient counteraction against a wide range range (up to 20 km) is obtained and inter- proved by acceptance trials and State Tests, tomer; of air threats: fixed and rotary-wing aircraft facing with all types of Customer’s existing more than 500 SAM launches were per-  development of automated day/night at stand-off ranges, small-size guided missiles command posts is provided without major formed, serial production is established. all-weather control system common in and bombs as well as remotely piloted UAVs. modifications. For several years already Pantsir com- terms of instrumentation and featuring Thanks to development of a single mul- Adherence to modular concept was bat vehicles march down the Red Square as customized settings and combat opera- timode and multispectral radar-optical applied not only to design of the system but to a participants of the Victory Day Parade, a tion algorithms according to the Cus- control system operating in dm, mm, and its software as well. That was the way to solve battery of Pantsir-S1 CVs many times took tomer’s requirements; IR wavebands, featuring a multifunction the issues of integration into IFF system exist- part in a Parade on occasion of Republic of  development of common ammunition tracking radar as one of its components, ing with each of the Customers. The issue of the Republic of Belarus Independence Day load for customized variants of the sys- high jamming immunity of the system was upgrading the IFF system in case the Custom- in the city of Minsk. tem, unified SPTA and training systems. achieved and, as a consequence, drastic er’s decision to change it was also worked out. The Pantsir system was shown at a Great R&D experience of the company increase of combat efficiency was obtained. The use of the self-contained day/night number of international defence exhibi- provided for successful coping with all chal- Current practice of using air-defence mis- all-weather control system significantly tions (IDEX, MAKS and others). lenges and allowed designing and develop- sile-gun systems sets forth very strict require- increases engagement zone in all condi- In the near future and in the long-term ing of an air-defence missile-gun system ments on their absolute informational inte- tions, reduces psychophysical load on the outlook the Pantsir-S1 ADMGS will remain that meets the highest tactical and technical gration into Customer’s existing AD system. crew, minimizes human factor in tough and a reliable asset capable to ensure protection requirements and doesn’t have counterparts The said requirements are determined strained combat environment. of airspace from all types of air threats. SP within the spectrum of SHORAD systems. by the following factors: The following specific problems were A novel approach in designing the Pan-  mandatory availability of the same target solved for the particular Customers: The advertorial is based on article of tsir-S1 system as a modular structure pro- environment at all levels and all compo-  search radar operation without false A.A. Zubarev, A.A. Nikiforov

1/2019 SP’s Land Forces 13 >> TECHNOLOGY Trijicon Combat Optics The ACOG is designed to be extremely durable and reliable. It combines traditional, precise distance marksmanship with Close Quarter Battle (CQB) speed. Many variants include a bullet drop compensated (BDC) reticle.

Photograph: Trijicon  Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd) ADJUSTABLE LED RMR® Features an automatic brightness mode Trijicon ACOG® and easy push buttons for eight adjustable The Trijicon Advanced Combat Optical brightness settings including 2 NV and 1 Gunsight (ACOG) is a fixed power, compact super bright. riflescope with an illuminated reticle pat- Battery. CR2032 battery which lasts up tern for use in bright to low/no light. The to 4 years at a brightness setting of 4 out of 8. ACOG is designed to be extremely durable Button Lockout. This sets RMR into and reliable. It combines traditional, precise automatic mode to prevent accidental distance marksmanship with Close Quarter adjustments. Battle (CQB) speed. Many variants include a Battery Conservation Mode. This bullet drop compensated (BDC) reticle. Every mode automatically adjusts aiming dot to feature of its design was chosen for with the ambient lighting conditions after 16.5 hours. aim of providing increased hit potential in all lighting conditions. It is available in Trijicon VCOG® 12 models ranging from 1.5x16S to 6x48 The Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Opti- where the first figure indicates the magni- cal Gunsight) is a rugged variable pow- fication and the second figure indicates the ered riflescope with an LED illuminated diameter of the objective (front) lens in mil- first focal plane BDC reticle. The VCOG is limeters which is important because it con- designed for extreme durability and fea- trols how much light the scope can let in, Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) tures superior glass quality. The magnifi- and ultimately transmit to your eye. cation range accommodates CQB and long to a .50BMG (.50 Browning Machine Gun m(66 ft.) under the water. distance marksmanship. The VCOG is a Features cartridge was developed for the Browning Warranty. Tritium lamp carries a war- MIL-spec grade optic, robust enough for Battery-Free Illumination. Most .50 calibre machine gun in the late 1910s, ranty of 15 years from date of original man- any application. It has two models-1-6x24 ACOG®models feature a tritium/fiber optic entering official service in 1921. The car- ufacture (Dual-Illuminated RMR). Electron- (with Thumbscrew Mount) and 1-6x24 illuminated reticle that automatically adjusts tridge itself has been made in many vari- ics carry a warranty of 5 years from date (with Quick-Release Mount). 1-6 implies the brightness based on available light. ants: multiple generations of regular ball, of original manufacture (LED & Adjustable that the magnification can be adjusted Rugged aluminum-alloy housing. tracer, armor-piercing (AP), incendiary, and LED RMR). from 1 to 6. Forged 7075-T6 aircraft-aluminum-alloy saboted sub-caliber rounds. The .50 BMG Trijicon Battery-Free Technology. housing provides for a nearly indestructible cartridge is also used in long-range target Tritium-phosphor lamp illuminates reticle Features sighting system. and anti-materiel rifles, as well as other in low-light conditions and fiber optics auto- First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle. It allows “Both Eyes Open” Design. The .50-caliber machine guns. It is in service till matically adjust the brightness level and user to rapidly acquire target and apply cor- ACOG®can be used as a CQB sight when today) and everything in between. It easily contrast to available light conditions. rect hold throughout magnification range. shooting with “both eyes open,” utilising passes US Military drop test requirements. Trijicon battery-free technology. Superior Quality Glass. Multi-coated the Bindon Aiming Concept. Human vision Waterproof. Exceptional waterproof Tritium-phosphor lamp illuminates reticle lenses provide superior clarity and light- is based upon a binocular (two eyes) presen- performance up to 100 Meters (328 ft.). in low-light conditions and fibre optics auto- gathering capabilities with zero distortion. tation of visual evidence to the brain. The Anti-Fogging. Dry nitrogen-filled to matically adjust the brightness leveland Rugged Aluminum-Alloy Housing. word binocular literally means using both eliminate fogging. contrast to available light conditions. Forged 7075-T6 aircraft-aluminum-alloy eyes at the same time. Several ACOG mod- Warranty. Tritium lamp is warranted to housing provides for a nearly indestructible els are designed to be used with the “Bin- illuminate for 15 years on fiber optic scopes RMR Type 2 sighting system. don Aiming Concept”, an aiming technique and 10 years on non-fiber optic scopes. RMR Type 2 has three models- LED; Adjust- Illuminated Reticle. Powered by a sin- developed by Trijicon founder and optical able LED and Dual-Illuminated. gle AA battery. The AA battery also called designer Glyn Bindon. The technique is ACOG®/RMR®Combo RMR Type 2 includes a button lock a double A or Mignon battery is a standard essentially uses the illuminated part of the This is the Ultimate Sight for CQB and Long mode, and battery saving features, which size single cell cylindrical dry battery which reticle and its focusing rear eyepiece as a Distance as he dual-sighting system gives the make this optic ideal for concealed carry and lasts upto 10 times longer vs Ordinary Zinc collimator sight (a collimator sight is a type shooter a distinct tactical advantage with Law Enforcement use. The Trijicon RMR is Carbon Batteries. of optical sight that allows the user looking the option of either the Trijicon ACOG®or the extremely versatile as a primary optic on BDC and Universal Reticles. Shooter into it to see an illuminated aiming point RMR®. For quick target acquisition, choose handguns, rifles, carbines and shotguns. can choose from Bullet Drop Compensating aligned with the device the sight is attached the RMR®Type 2 LED; Type 2 Adjustable When paired with a magnified optic, the (BDC) and Ranging reticles for quick and to, regardless of eye position). LED or RMR®Dual-Illuminated sight. For RMR is an excellent solution as a secondary accurate range estimation or Universal MIL Superior Quality Glass Lenses. accuracy and pinpoint bullet placement at CQB optic, and as a backup sight. Trijicon and MOA reticles to accommodate multiple Multi-coated lenses provide superior clarity a distance, choose the magnified ACOG. You RMR®Type 2 is designed to be as durable as calibres, ammunition weights and barrel and light-gathering capabilities with zero have the best of both worlds. No separate the Trijicon ACOG®, while also improving lengths. distortion. tools are required for windage and elevation precision and accuracy with any style or Easy-To-Set Adjusters. Adjustments Fixed Magnification. Fewer moving adjustments because the ACOG also features calibre of firearm. A pistol mounted Triji- are easy and precise without requiring any parts provide more durability than a variable external windage and elevation adjusters. con RMR Type 2 allows you to shoot more tools. optics. Seven magnifications are available to accurately at longer distances by focusing Rings. The need for conventional ring include 1.5x, 2x, 3x, 3.5x, 4x, 5.5x, and 6. Trijicon RMR® your attention on the target, not the com- mounts is eliminated with the integrated Bullet Drop Compensating and Features in all RMR®Sights bination of your front post, rear post, and mounting adapter that provides quick and Ranging Reticles. Bullet drop compensa- Versatile Sight. Multiple primary appli- target. It is designed with a patented hous- easy mounting to any rail system. Compat- tion (BDC) (sometimes referred to as ballis- cations including rifle, pistol, shotgun and ing shape that absorbs impacts and diverts ible with many rails in use and designed to tic elevation) is a feature available on some carbine, or use as a secondary sight with a stresses away from the lens to increase fit the Trijicon ACOG®. rifle scopes. The feature compensates for the magnified optic. durability. It also offers redesigned and Rugged and Durable. Tested to MIL- effect of gravity on the bullet at given dis- Unique Patented Housing Shape. upgraded electronics that have been proven STD-810G which are approved by the US tances (referred to as “bullet drop”) in flat Military-grade aluminum alloy forged hous- to perform when mounted on slide ride pis- Department of Defense. fire scenarios. The feature must be tuned for ing shape diverts force of impact away from tols and other small arms. It’s suitable for Adjustable Brightness Settings. There the particular ballistic trajectory of a par- the lens thus greatly increasing its durability. military, law enforcement, concealed carry are six user-selectable brightness settings. ticular combination of gun and cartridge at True-Color Multi-Coated Lens. Cre- self-defence, target shooting, and hunting Quick Magnification Adjustments. a predefined muzzle velocity and air density. ates a wide-band light transmission for min- applications. When paired with a magnified An integrated dial fin allows easy rotation BDC is available in most models.of ACOG®. imal change in target area color. optic, the RMR is an excellent solution as a through magnification settings. Combat Proven. ACOG® is combat Parallax. It is Parallax free. secondary CQB optic, and as a backup sight. Constant Eye Relief. No head or stock proven as it has been extensively used in battle. Adjustable Windage/Elevation. Both adjustments required throughout entire Shock-resistant. Proven to withstand the parameters are easily adjustable with- Features magnification range. recoil from a .22LR (.22 Long Rifle or sim- out special tools. The unit is 1 MOA per Reticle adjustments. Automatically Waterproof. Up to 20 m(66 ft.). ply .22 LR is a very popular variety of .22 click. (Sights on a target rifle are adjustable adjusts the illuminated reticle to available Anti Fogging. Dry nitrogen is filled to caliber rimfire ammunition, and in terms in units of measurement called minutes of light conditions. eliminate fogging. of units sold is still by far the most com- angle (MOA) which is equal to 1/60 of a Battery. CR2032 battery which lasts Limited Lifetime Warranty. Electron- mon ammunition in the world today and its degree (there are 360 degrees in a circle). 2 years of typical use and 5 years in dark ics are warranted for 5 years from date of

SP www.spslandforces.com velocity varies from subsonic to hyper sonic) Water Proof. It can operate up to 20 storage. original manufacture.

14 SP’s Land Forces 1/2019 >> News in Brief

India Africa Field Training Exercise multiple rocket launchers. The A-100 is a vehicles for transporting Patriot air defence (IAFTX)- 2019 300 mm, 10-tube multiple rocket launcher, systems made by Rheinmetall’s partner Publisher and Editor-in-Chief The final planning conference to work out developed by Beijing-based China Academy Raytheon. Starting in the first quarter of Jayant Baranwal the modalities for Indian Africa Field Train- of Launch Vehicle Technology. The A-100 2021, Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Senior Editorial Contributor ing Exercise (IAFTX)-2019 was conducted rocket is 7.3 meters long, weighs 840 kg, (RMMV) will supply Sweden with a total Lt General P.C. Katoch (Retd) at Pune from January 23-24, 2019. Del- carries a 235 kg warhead, and is stabilized of forty high-mobility trucks from its HX Senior Technical Group Editor egates from Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, by spin, thrust, and stabilizing fins. It has a series, including 16 tractor trucks and 24 Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd) Sudan, South Africa, Tanzania, Namibia, range of over 100 km. The Pakistan Army is transport vehicles. The order is in the dou- Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd) Mozambique, Uganda, Niger and Zambia surrounded by two hostile neighbors on the ble-digit million-euro range. The latest order Group Associate Editor attended the conference. Eastern and Western side. The rockets will placed with RMMV for transport vehicles Vishal Thapar IAFTX-2019 is scheduled to be conducted mainly be stationed towards India, which for the Patriot air defence system is in line at Aundh Military Station and College of Mili- lies on the Eastern side. with the vehicle family concept; moreover, Contributors India tary Engineering, Pune from March 18- 27, it underscores the customer’s satisfaction General V.P. Malik (Retd), Lt General Vijay 2019. The joint training exercise is being The Royal Thai Army to acquire with these tried-and-tested “military-off- Oberoi (Retd), Lt General R.S. Nagra (Retd), conducted with more than a dozen African more VT-4 main battle tanks the-shelf” vehicles. The latest generation of Lt General S.R.R. Aiyengar (Retd), countries & India. It aims at synergising HX2 vehicles fulfils all the criteria modern Major General Ashok Mehta (Retd), humanitarian mine action and joint peace logistic vehicles are expected to meet: maxi- Major General G.K. Nischol (Retd), operations. The initial planning conference mum mobility, ruggedness, versatility and Brigadier Gurmeet Kanwal (Retd), for the exercise was held in December 2018. the ability to handle even the worst roads Brigadier S. Mishra (Retd), Rohit Sharma and toughest terrain. Chairman & Managing Director Quadcopter developed by Indian Army Jayant Baranwal Two Indian Army Soldiers have developed an SAAB’s Laser warning system Executive Vice President armed UAV for the Indian Army. The armed Saab has launched its laser warning system (Planning & Business Development) quadcopter prototype was a long-pending portfolio for land and naval applications in Rohit Goel requirement of the armed forces. The quad- the US market. The Laser Warning System Administration copter was displayed at the Army Technology consists of sensors and a laser warning con- Bharti Sharma Seminar in New Delhi on January 11,2019 The Royal Thai Army (RTA) is seeking cabi- troller and it can interface with the vessel’s Asst-Admin, HR & Infra and has been previously deployed during net approval to acquire more VT-4 main or vehicle’s command management system Pooja Tehlani live operations along the Line of Control battle tanks (MBTs) made by the China as well as with onboard countermeasures Creative Director between India and Pakistan and counter- North Industries Corporation (Norinco). in order to provide early warning and pro- Anoop Kamath terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir. If the government approves the proposal, tection against threats. Saab’s Naval Laser- Design No defense service in India possess armed the RTA will own 52 VT-4s. The VT-4 Warning System is capable of detecting and Vimlesh Kumar Yadav, Sonu Singh Bisht drones, making this a historic innovation in main battle tank, previously known as the analyzing lasers in blue-water and littoral the history of the Indian Army. MBT-3000, is armed with a 125 millimeter combat environments and is already uti- Research Assistant: Graphics smoothbore cannon to engage armored per- lized by the German Army. Both, the Naval Survi Massey Trial of Rafael’s Trophy Active sonnel carriers, main battle tanks, infantry and Land variants of the laser warning sys- Sales & Marketing Protection System forces, military installations, light vehicles tem are currently in production for multiple Director Sales & Marketing: Neetu Dhulia and low-flying helicopters. A remotely oper- Saab customers world-wide. General Manager Sales: Rajeev Chugh ated 12.7mm anti-aircraft machine gun SP’s Website and a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun com- Russia’s Borisoglebsk-2 electronic Sr. Web Developer: Shailendra P. Ashish prise the secondary armament. At the end warfare complex enters service Web Developer: Ugrashen Vishwakarma of 2017, Thailand became the first VT-4 Published bimonthly by Jayant Baranwal export partner, with a 28 tank delivery. on behalf of SP Guide Publications Pvt Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this MBDA’s Doyenne Portée anti-tank publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form guided missile or by any means, photocopying, recording, The MBDA Missile Systems’ medium-range electronic, or otherwise without the prior missile Doyenne Portée was successfully written permission of the publishers. Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems deployed in Mali by the French Army for Printed in India will carry out trials of its Trophy Active the first time. Missile Doyenne Portée is by Kala Jyothi Process Pvt Ltd Protection System (APS) on the Leopard 2 a man-portable anti-tank guided missile © SP Guide Publications, 2019 main battle tank this year. Trophy is a mili- intended as a replacement for the MILAN. Subscription/ Circulation tary APS for vehicles, that intercepts and The Picardy Battle Group used the missile Annual Inland: `600 • Overseas: US$180 destroys incoming missiles and rockets with for the first time in a combat environment Email: [email protected] a shotgun-like blast. Its primary purpose in December. A six-person crew delivered [email protected] is to supplement the armour of light and the system by armored car, then installed it A motorised rifle unit has received the Letters to Editor heavy armored fighting vehicles. It is the at the top of a ridge in southeastern Mali’s Borisoglebsk-2 electronic warfare(EW) [email protected] only fully operational and combat-proven three-border region and successfully fired it. complex which compromises of sev- For Advertising Details, Contact: APS in the world. The Leopard 2 is a main MBDA had successfully tested the Naval ver- eral stations based on a multi-purpose [email protected] battle tank operated by the German Army. sion of the Missile in Djibouti in November. armored all-terrain vehicle. Compared [email protected] with its predecessors, it has an extended Induction of Rocket for Pakistan’s US Army contract for flame- SP GUIDE PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD frequency range of radio intelligence and Corporate Office Army resistant combat boots electronic jamming. More powerful EW A 133 Arjun Nagar, Opp Defence Colony, The Pakistan Army’s artillery corps has The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Sup- stations EW can more effectively influence New Delhi 110003, India inducted a Chinese rocket as part of its port contracted McRae Industries Inc. with various types of radio-controlled objects. Tel: +91(11) 24644693, 24644763, $9.9 million for flame-resistant combat The Borisglebsk-2 can jam control chan- 24620130 boots. McRae Industries’ Footwear divi- nels of unmanned aerial vehicles, radio- Fax: +91 (11) 24647093 >> Show Calendar sion provides quality combat boots to the controlled landmines of the adversary. The Regd Office US Army. During the Vietnam War McRae personnel of the unit have already been Fax: +91 (11) 23622942 17–21 February received a contract award from the US gov- trained on the new EW system. Email: [email protected] International Defence Exhibition & ernment to manufacture military combat Representative Offices Conference (IDEX) 2019 boots for the US Army using the “direct Rheinmetall and BAE Systems’ joint Bengaluru, INDIA ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, UAE molded sole” (DMS) design. The award is a venture Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd) https://idexuae.ae firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefi- Rheinmetall and BAE Systems announced 204, Jal Vayu Vihar, Kalyan Nagar, nite-quantity contract. Work is scheduled on January 21 that they have signed an Bengaluru 560043, India. Tel: +91 (80) 23682204 20–24 February to be completed by January 8, 2020. agreement to create a joint UK-based mili- Aero India tary vehicle design, manufacturing and MOSCOW, RUSSIA Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Swedish Army Orders Rheinmetall support business. The new Joint Venture LAGUK Co., Ltd, Yuri Laskin India HX Heavy Trucks will be headquartered at BAE Systems’ facil- Krasnokholmskaya, Nab., https://aeroindia.gov.in/Aero-India 11/15, app. 132, Moscow 115172, Russia. ity in Telford, England and will sustain over Tel: +7 (495) 911 2762, 26–30 March 400 jobs in the UK, as well as preserve key Fax: +7 (495) 912 1260 technology and engineering skills. Rhein- LIMA 2019 www.spguidepublications.com MIEC, LangkawiThe Resorts World, metall will purchase a 55 per cent stake in www.spslandforces.com Langkawi, Malaysia the existing BAE Systems UK based combat RNI Number: DELENG/2008/25818 www.limaexhibition.com vehicles business, with BAE Systems retain- ing 45 per cent. The establishment of the 30 April–3May new Joint Venture is subject to regulatory International Defence Industry Fair approvals which are anticipated to be com- (IDEF) pleted in the first half of 2019. Once the Tüyap Istanbul Fair and Congress approvals have been completed, the Joint Center, Turkey Rheinmetall has been awarded a contract Venture will be known as Rheinmetall BAE http://idef.com.tr/en from the Swedish armed forces to supply Systems Land (RBSL). SP

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