Artillery in the 21st Century

[buglerbilly]

Artillery in the 21st Century – Proven, Flexible and Tailored


AGM mounted on a Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) chassis.

Krauss-Maffei Wegmann’s state-of-the-art artillery system solutions

09:12 GMT, February 18, 2010 Emanating from the world’s most combat proven and effective tube artillery system, the Panzerhaubitze 2000 (PzH2000 self-propelled howitzer), Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) developed an independent artillery module, fully meeting current military requirements.

Accurate fire power is and remains an important military requirement. In current conflicts such as in Afghanistan, the PzH2000 could prove that this system can be perfectly deployed in asymmetric combat theatres. During Operation Medusa and the Battle of Chora, the Dutch PzH2000 effectively supported coalition forces and eliminated targets up to a distance of 46 kilometres. Indirect fire support is and remains an important element in current, as well as in future conflict scenarios, and is an option that armed forces are less frequently prepared to abandon in operations abroad.

Requirement Profile

Current conflicts have proven that all future weapons systems will be expected to provide a high level of flexibility. In accordance with this new requirement and the profile of allied armed forces, the artillery system of the 21st century will need to have a high level of mobility, of independence for the integration onto various platforms, as well as of air-transportability with strategic transport aircraft such as the A400M. The next-generation artillery system is planned to be deployed for a variety of missions as a highly flexible fire-support component for the troops.

Further, this new requirement profile places high expectations on technology, as the desired flexibility comes along with a significant weight reduction which, however, may not affect performance or protection of the vehicle. KMW has successfully achieved this balancing act with its currently evaluated Artillery Gun Module (AGM).

Artillery Gun Module

The development of the 155 / L52 Artillery Gun Module has been closely aligned to the requirements of deployed troops and incorporates the logistical requirements of the new realities of military operations. The size and weight of the innovative artillery module allows rapid deployment and, hence, is qualified for evacuation operations, regionally limited peace-building missions or “show of force” scenarios. Dependent on the weight of the carrier vehicle, the AGM can be deployed by strategic airlift. This makes the AGM a suitable mobile mission component wherever close air support or heavy forces are not feasible, unavailable or too costly.

While being an independent 155mm/52-calibre artillery system, the AGM offers the identical performance parameters as the PzH2000 in terms of range and precision. With a range of up to 56 kilometres with full area coverage, and providing a level of precision which, by then, could not be conceived, the PzH2000 is the worldwide leading artillery system and is currently deployed with four NATO allies. So far, more than 330 systems have been produced and delivered by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann. The mission spectrum of the AGM ranges from conventional artillery fire support to the use of C-RAM systems (Counter Rocket, Artillery and Mortar).

KMW has successfully integrated these performance parameters into a compact Artillery Gun Module. The module is designed to be fully platform independent by integrating the fully automated propellant charge magazine and loading device, including a total stock of 30 rounds, into the module. The electrically driven and digitally controlled round loading system provides the fully automated loading of the gun. Additionally, a revolutionary propellant charge magazine and loading system has been developed to accomplish a completely automated firing sequence for the AGM.

With a firing rate of six rounds per minute, the modular charges are being controlled by the on-board computer, loaded from the magazine chambers into the gun chamber by the round carrier and, subsequently, fired.

Automated Loading of Propellant Charges

The conceptual key element of the AGM is the newly developed automated propellant charge loading systems. It enables an uncrewed-operation of the weapon system and, thereby, provides platform independence. Due to the automated charge loading system, the charges do not have to be loaded manually and, therefore, only requires a driver and the gunner for the handling of the weapon system. The reduction of required personnel, compared to conventional artillery systems, increases the safety of the crew, as no crew member is exposed to the gun or loading system during combat operations.

The round magazine in the front section of the module is arranged in a circle around the round carrier and consists of several chambers in which the rounds are positioned upright. The position of each round is assigned and managed by the on-board computer. The round carrier automatically loads and extracts the rounds from the magazine chambers.

The position of the individual rounds is assigned and managed by the on-board computer. The round carrier loads and extracts these rounds from the magazine chambers. Further, the modular propellant charges are prepared according to the fire mission and loaded into the chamber after the round has been rammed in.

First Development Stages

The first prototype of the AGM was completed in 2004. The Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) platform was chosen as the carrier vehicles and was prepared for the integration of the AGM by integrating a pivot bearing on the chassis and by further minor modifications.

The first test firing in September 2004 validated the stability and ability of the chassis as well as of the module to withstand the strain. 79 rounds were successfully fired in direct succession during this live firing test. Further tests proved the system’s full stability throughout the entire operational arc of the system (Azimuth: 6400, Elevation: 0 to +1150n). Firing from a mobile position also accomplished the desired targeting precision and performance of the PzH2000.

Additional developments in the automation resulted in a second AGM demonstrator, which was equipped with the new automated propellant charge loading system. Also, the operating interface, as well as the fire control system and other control components, have been completely renewed and adjusted to meet state-of-the-art demands. The variable elevated body of the weapon system has also been newly developed in order to reduce the overall weight of the module and, thereby, create more flexibility. Furthermore, an automated sealing actuator has been installed in the weapon system.

During the live-firing tests in April/May 2006, the AGM Demonstrator 2 successfully validated the fully automated loading sequence as well as the propellant charge loading operation. Furthermore, the automation of the round and propellant charge selection, as well as the individual fuse programming, proved their worth. The required parameters have all been met: a firing rate of 3 rounds in 15 seconds and 6 rounds in 60 seconds have been achieved in the fully automated operation. In different sequences, ten shots from each of the three DM72 modules have been fired within 139 seconds. Even the fully remote-controlled procedure has been successfully demonstrated.

The DONAR Project

After these successful tests, the management of General Dynamics Santa Bárbara Sistemas (GDSBS) and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann met on 21 December 2006 and discussed the feasibility of integrating the Artillery Gun Module onto the chassis of the ASCOD armoured fighting vehicle. Following a pre-investment study, the realisation of the project began in May 2007. Under the project name “DONAR”, the first prototype was completed in a very short time. In April 2008, GDSBS delivered the modified ASCOD chassis, onto which the KMW’s AGM was to be integrated. In May, first firing tests were carried out with DONAR and in June the system went on public display, for the first time, at the EUROSATORY trade show in Paris.

The DONAR armoured artillery system is a revolutionary further development of conventional artillery systems. Its low combat weight of 35 tonnes (20 tonnes less than the PzH2000) provides DONAR with a combat mobility which, so far, has not been achieved by any artillery system. With a turning radius of two metres along with a range of 500 kilometres, DONAR offers the mobility of a state-of-the-art armoured fighting vehicle.

The protection of the crew has been maximised to a high NATO standard, reaching level 3a/3b STANAG 4569 while featuring a low silhouette as well as enhanced cabin protection. With a level 1 STANAG 4569 protection, the AGM module offers the same level of protection as the turret of the PzH2000. Thereby the crew, as well as the system, is effectively protected against small arms fire and shell splinters from artillery and mortar munitions. All dimensions of the system correspond to the European tunnel standard and further allows easy transportation of the system by air or rail.

Platform Independence

The fully automated gun laying system and loading system enables a remote-controlled firing operation throughout the weapon system’s entire operational arc. Due to this characteristic, and the low gross weight of 12 tonnes, the AGM can be integrated as an independent module onto a variety of platforms.

Currently, the AGM is successfully integrated in the DONAR project, jointly executed with General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS), as well as onto the MLRS platform. Besides these tracked carrier vehicles, the integration onto wheeled vehicles or on naval platforms, as well as its use as an autonomous ground module, can be implemented. KMW currently carries out concept studies for the integration of the AGM onto the chassis of the BOXER armoured fighting vehicle as well as of the PUMA infantry fighting vehicle.

(Translation by defpro.com, Nicolas von Kospoth)

[buglerbilly]

U.S. NLOS-LS Misses Four of Six Shots in Testing

By kate brannen

Published: 22 Feb 2010 17:17

Could this open the door for certain Israeli and/or Brit systems...........???

The U.S. Army's Non Line-of-Sight Launch System's (NLOS-LS) Precision Attack Missile failed to hit its target four out of six times during recent testing, according to a testing document.

The six test shots took place at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., between Jan. 26 and Feb. 5 and were part of a flight-limited user test for the system, Army spokesman Paul Mehney confirmed.

Test missiles failed to hit a moving tank 20 kilometers away, a moving infantry vehicle 10 kilometers away, a stationary tank 30 kilometers away, and a stationary truck 35 kilometers away. It missed the infantry vehicle by 20 meters, and the truck by 25 kilometers.

The missile failed to hit its target both times it relied solely upon its infrared seeker, the document also states.

The missiles did hit two of their targets, a stationary tank and a moving infantry fighting vehicle, both 15 kilometers away. For the moving vehicle, the missile used its laser-anoint mode, and for the stationary tank, the missile relied on its laser-designate mode, according to the document.

The tests were conducted by soldiers from the fires battalion of the 1st Armored Division's 5th brigade, Mehney said in an e-mail. The independent test data collection and observation was carried out by the Army's Operational Test Command, he added.

"The Army is currently evaluating test data and observations, the results are required as part of the March 2010 Interim Defense Acquisition Board review as outlined in the Dec. 22, 2009 Increment 1 [low-rate initial production acquisition decision memorandum]," said Mehney.

In March, Pentagon acquisition executive Ashton Carter will review the results of the limited user test, including the Army's findings from its investigation into the missile failures.

The NLOS-LS Precision Attack Missiles (PAM) are slated to cost $466,000 apiece in 2011, according to budget documents submitted to Congress Feb. 1.

An ongoing Army precision munitions portfolio review is looking at scaling back the final number of PAM missiles purchased and possibly launching a new program to develop a cheaper alternative weapon.

[buglerbilly]

Challenges Ahead For NLOS-LS

Feb 26, 2010



By Bettina H. Chavanne

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The failure of four of six shots from the U.S. Army’s Non Line-of-Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS) during recent testing could spell trouble for the Raytheon-built vertical launcher, which also is supposed to be fielded aboard the Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship (LCS).

Results from a Limited User Test (LUT) of the system, which ran from Jan. 26 to Feb. 5 at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., are currently under evaluation. The NLOS-LS’s surprisingly poor performance — attributed to a combination of operator error and technical failures — will be the primary topic of discussion during an interim Defense Acquisition Board (DAB) meeting in March. The DAB was slated to review Increment 1 capabilities of the Brigade Combat Team Modernization (BCTM) program, of which NLOS-LS is an integral part.

Raytheon issued an official statement, that read in part, “Of the six LUT flights, two were direct hits, two were misses with root cause known and corrective action implemented, and two were misses with root cause currently under investigation.”

The company noted that over the course of the program, the Precision Attack Missile (PAM) has fired 23 missiles with 14 direct hits. “NLOS-LS is in the system design and development phase,” Raytheon said. “We test in order to identify issues and quickly resolve them.”

The Army has three choices, according to BCTM spokesperson Paul Mehney: “Keep [NLOS-LS] going, modify it or cancel it.” The Army’s big concern is that NLOS-LS fills an important capability gap. “We don’t have an easily deployable guided missile system,” Mehney said. “The operational factors of NLOS-LS are still necessary. The Army needs to determine the best path forward to work out any technical solutions that may come out as a result of the LUT.”

Photo: Raytheon

[Chunder]

I might cringe at the presentation format but it shows very well the reloading mechanism of the PzH 2000... in English. 2:34 onwards.


From Mech design perspective it's fascinating.

[Milne Bay]

Project Land 17
According to:
http://www.defence.gov.au/dmo/lsd/land17/land17.cfm
Current Status

This project achieved First Pass approval on 14 February 2006, to explore the acquisition of not less than two batteries of protected self-propelled howitzers, not more than four batteries of lightweight towed howitzers, precision guided munitions and a digitised, networked Battle Management System. In-service delivery is anticipated from 2011.

I must have lost this on the old T5C, but when is a decision going to be made on either PzH 2000 or the AS-9?

[buglerbilly]

Army Fast-Tracking Precision Mortar to Afghanistan

(Source: U.S Army; issued March 10, 2010)

The U.S. Army is poised to deliver precision mortar rounds to soldiers in Afghanistan by the end of this year as part of an accelerated effort to give commanders there an improved ability to destroy targets in the mountainous terrain, service officials said.

"You can drop one on a target to execute the mission and stay on target," said Brig. Gen. John Maddux, Program Executive Officer, Ammunition. "Also, this will decrease the footprint of conventional ammo in theater because you only need one to make first kill."

The program -- called Accelerated Precision Mortar Initiative (APMI) -- emerged as a result of an urgent request from commanders in Afghanistan who seek the ability to pinpoint targets using precision or GPS -guided mortar rounds.

APMI improves upon the 136-meter Circular Error Probable (CEP) of conventional mortars by reducing it to about 10-meters, said Bruce Kay, Department of the Army Systems Coordinator, Mortar Systems.

"This is a 120mm mortar round that provides precision capability to ground forces. A current conventional mortar round has an accuracy of about a 136-meter CEP. With APMI, we have been able to demonstrate a less than 10-meter CEP," Kay said. "This provides a far improved capability to the ground forces commander. "

Precision mortars are needed in the mountains of Afghanistan and in areas where reducing collateral damage is essential, Kay said.

"This is designed for a precision capability such as against a sniper in a building, or enemies in a bunker or trench. If you were to engage with a conventional mortar round, you would have to fire 8-to-10 rounds to kill or suppress the target. With APMI, you will probably be able to do the same thing with one or two rounds."

APMI will soon begin phase two testing that includes safety certification and qualification testing necessary to meet the urgent material release requirements.

The Army will soon down-select and choose one of three industry teams competing for the award. Each of the three teams, Raytheon-Israeli Military Industries, General Dynamics and ATK, have put their respective APMI rounds through a series of rigorous tests.

"Each vendor brought in 25 rounds. Each vendor was compared against the same standards. They did extreme weather testing and safety testing, among others," said Kay.

Alongside APMI, the Army will still need conventional mortars for area and suppressive fires, Army officials said.

"There is a balance of how much conventional munitions and how much precision munitions we need. We are working now to determine that," said Maddux.

APMI could expand beyond Afghanistan once the rounds have been demonstrated successfully in combat, Kay said.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

BAE Producing 24 Archer Systems For Norway, Sweden Armies

By andrew chuter

Published: 26 Mar 2010 08:18

The Norwegian and Swedish armies are each to receive 24 new Archer self-propelled artillery systems as a result of a 135 million pound ($200 million) launch order struck with the weapons developer BAE Systems.



The Archer self-propelled artillery system. (BAE SYSTEMS) The first of the 155mm guns will be delivered in October 2011 with production continuing for two additional years.

The Archer system has been developed under a 100 million pound contract awarded by the two governments in 2003. It's the first major result of an effort across the Nordic nations to increase collaboration on weapons development and procurement.

The weapon primarily comprises BAE's Swedish produced FH77 B05 52 caliber cannon with a modified Volvo 6x6 commercial articulated vehicle. The Norwegian Protector remote weapon station produced by Kongsberg will be fitted to the cab of the Volvo vehicle.

The Global Combat System Weapons arm of BAE said in a statement issued March 26 that the automated weapon system can respond to calls for fire within 30 seconds while the ordnance can be stowed and ready for rapid redeployment within 30 seconds of the completion of a fire mission.

News of the Nordic artillery award comes at the end of a bad week for BAE's land systems business following the loss of a major armoured vehicle order in the U.K. to rivals General Dynamics. BAE was offering the Swedish built CV90 vehicle.

The British contract announcement earlier this week did offer some small consolation to BAE. The MoD reconfirmed its intention to use the 40mm cannon developed by the BAE/Nexter joint venture CTA International.

Use of the cannon has been previously mandated by the Ministry of Defence for the scout version of the new British armoured vehicle and a Warrior infantry vehicle update. Speculation recently circulating in the U.K. had hinted at the British having second thoughts about the cannon.

[buglerbilly]

BAE Systems Awarded £135 Million Artillery Production Contract

(Source: BAE Systems; issued March 26, 2010)


The Archer truck-mounted self-propelled gun was developed by Bofors (now BAE Systems); deliveries to Norway and Sweden will begin in 2011 and be completed in 2013. (BAE photo)

Interesting image, there is a lot of add-on armour on the vehicle.........

KARLSKOGA, Sweden --- BAE Systems has been awarded a £135 million ($200m) contract to commence series production of 48 Archer 155mm self-propelled artillery gun systems and their associated ammunition handling systems for the Swedish and Norwegian armed forces.

The first operational systems are expected to be delivered in October 2011 and production will continue over the following two years. This production contract follows a £100m ($146m) development programme which began in 2003.

Mike Smith, managing director of BAE Systems, Global Combat Systems Weapons said: “Archer is an important programme for the armed forces of both countries and for BAE Systems’ land business, as it is in a core area for us and will provide a springboard for future exports. We appreciate the effort and cooperation that the FMV and FLO – the national procurement agencies - have invested in ensuring the procurement of the most advanced and capable artillery system for the Swedish and Norwegian armies.”

Archer is an advanced and automated artillery gun system in production, designed for rapid deployment and high mobility in the most demanding operational scenarios. The digital fire control system and automatic gun-laying capability allows a response to calls for fire within 30 seconds while the ordnance is securely stowed and ready for rapid redeployment within 30 seconds of the completion of a fire mission.

The Archer system combines the proven firepower of the BAE Systems’ FH77 B05 52 calibre cannon with a modified Volvo commercial A30E 6x6 rugged articulated vehicle. The weapon provides an enhanced operational capability, delivering concentrated firepower with conventional munitions to a range of 40 km+ and to ranges up to 50km with advanced munitions while the crew of three remains fully protected in the armoured cab command module.

The Archer system is based on well-proven sub-systems and can fire a full range of western standard munitions many of which have been developed entirely by BAE Systems or in conjunction with international partners, such as the BONUS projectile, dispensing precision targeting sub-munitions or the highly effective Excalibur precision guided round.

The Archer production go-ahead follows another green light this week for a BAE Systems bi-national collaboration on an advanced weapon system. On Monday the UK Ministry of Defence confirmed that the Anglo-French CTA weapons system was mandated for the FRES SV and Warrior upgrade programmes.

BAE Systems is a global defence, security and aerospace company with approximately 107,000 employees worldwide. The Company delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. In 2009 BAE Systems reported sales of £22.4 billion (US$ 36.2 billion).

-ends-

[geof]

Interesting image, there is a lot of add-on armour on the vehicle.........



You can put on all the armour you want,but all it would take would be a well directed small rpg round into that space between the cab and the rear section and she ain't going anywhere. Great gun ... wrong platform.

[buglerbilly]

NONE of the wheeled guns have more than token protection against RPG's and the 8x8's do NOT have the cross-country ability or agility of the Volvo tractor used here. Is it ideal? Nope it's not BUT it's far from the worst around in the wheeled sector..........

[Wolftrap]

Well, you still have the G-6 and its latest incarnation as RWG-52. Given, it has a purpose-build chassis instead of a modded COTS one and it is a 48t package on six wheels instead of <30t like most other wheeled artillery systems. Still she looks business, is wheeled, has the armour and provides the punch... ;)

[buglerbilly]

DATE:09/04/10

SOURCE:Flight International

Indian air force orders Harop loitering munitions

By Arie Egozi

The Indian air force is to purchase Israel Aerospace Industries' Harop loitering munition system, with deliveries next year.

Suitable for launch from a variety of platforms, the long-endurance Harop has tactical unmanned air vehicle-type capabilities, including an electro-optical/infrared seeker providing 360° coverage. The aircraft can search for, detect and attack high-value mobile, time-critical and moving targets at land or sea, and with pinpoint accuracy from long range, IAI says.

Each Harop system comprises transportable launchers and a mission control shelter that provides a man-in-the-loop function to approve engagements or abort attacks in real time to avoid collateral damage. The system can be used across a range of scenarios, from low- to high-intensity conflicts, urban warfare and counter-terror operations.


© Billypix

After launch, a Harop air vehicle navigates towards a target area and loiters while searching for targets. If an attack mission is aborted, the UAV can be returned to loitering mode before making a new strike. Another Harop can be used to deliver real-time video to support battle damage assessment tasks.

IAI's success builds on its previous sale of Harpy attack drones to India several years ago, and follows a German army order for the Harop system signed last year with the company and Rheinmetall Defence.

[buglerbilly]

U.S. Army's Truck Choice Puts Rocket Launcher Program in a Bind

By KATE BRANNEN

Published: 27 Apr 2010 17:49

The U.S. Army's decision to give the next contract to build Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles to Oshkosh instead of incumbent BAE Systems has complicated the procurement of the service's High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS).

"We were in a crunch once Oshkosh got that award," Col. Dave Rice, program manager for precision fires, rocket and missile systems, said during an April 27 conference call with reporters. The change has opened up "a big Pandora's box," he said.

Currently, the government sends FMTV chassis from BAE's plant in the company's facility in Sealy, Texas, to Lockheed Martin, which makes the rocket launchers and installs them on the new trucks.

But as BAE shuts its line down and Oshkosh prepares to begin production, Rice expects a gap right when the HIMARS program needs chassis.

The Army has two more years of procuring HIMARS, but there is a 14-month lag between the time the HIMARS production contract is awarded and the time the system is produced, said Rice.

The Army planned to procure its last 44 BAE chassis for the HIMARS system in fiscal year 2011, said Rice, but BAE is expected to discontinue FMTV production over the period of time it would take to build the chassis.

BAE's loss put the HIMARS program in an "immediate bind," he said.

Some of the HIMARS chassis will be included in the Army's last buy of FMTVs from BAE, said Rice, but that leaves one more year's worth of BAE chassis that the HIMARS program needs.

"We need advanced authorization to procure those and we are working that action right now," said Rice. "If we're not able to get our last 44 chassis out of BAE, then we've got to start looking at some serious options."

Rice is also worried that the Oshkosh trucks won't have cabs that protect their crews as well as BAE's Increased Crew Protection (ICP) cab.

"The design of the ICP CAB is proprietary to BAE," said Rice.

The Army could buy the rights to the ICP cab, but they are expensive, he said.

The service will have to see if the cab changes are militarily significant, he said.

[buglerbilly]

U.S. Army May Salvage Parts of NLOS-LS

By KATE BRANNEN

Published: 27 Apr 2010 17:54

Not sure why saving the CLU will mean anything worth a sh1t but hey IF they can recoup anything of the fortune spent so far then good on them?

U.S. Army officials are debating whether to salvage parts of the Non-Line of Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS), a program they have slated for cancellation.

"The scope of what's going to be preserved and what's not going to be preserved is still kind of open in my mind," said Barry Pike, deputy program executive officer for fires in the Army's Program Executive Office for Missiles and Space. He spoke April 27 with reporters during a conference call.

Senior Army leaders decided April 22 to recommend the program's cancellation by the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Service officials plan to formally deliver the recommendation this week, said Army spokesman Lt. Col. Jimmie Cummings.

The final decision rests with Pentagon acquisition chief Ashton Carter because NLOS-LS is an acquisition category one joint program.

Part of the Army's Brigade Combat Team Modernization program, NLOS-LS is also intended for the Navy's Littoral Combat Ship.

There are two major components to NLOS-LS: the Precision Attack Missile and the Container Launch Unit (CLU). Raytheon is responsible for developing the missile and Lockheed Martin builds the CLU.

According to sources, Army acquisition executive Malcolm O'Neill did not participate in the April 22 meeting. From 2000 to 2006, O'Neill served as vice president and chief technical officer of Lockheed Martin, and from 1996 to 2000, he served as vice president for operations and best practices in the space and strategic missiles division at the company.

According to Pike, the CLU may have a life beyond NLOS-LS.

The government owns data rights to the CLU "that may still be useful for the Army to do organic fires from [infantry brigade combat teams] and so the final decision on what's going to happen to the NLOS program is not quite soup yet," Pike said.

Col. Dave Rice, who was in the room during last week's decision, said he thought the requirement for NLOS-LS remains. Rice serves as program manager for precision fires, rocket and missile systems.

"The question that the Army has to grapple with now is what is going to replace that capability that's lost," he said. That decision will involve "a lot of senior leadership guidance" and "modeling, simulation and analysis," he added.

"It will be up to the user community and senior Army leadership to decide how best to fill that gap," said Rice.

GMLRS Milestone

The conference call was scheduled to announce Lockheed Martin's delivery of the 10,000th Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rocket to the Army.

Lockheed is funding an internal research and development effort to improve the GMLRS, said Scott Arnold, Lockheed Martin vice president for precision fires programs. The company calls the initiative "GMLRS-plus." The new rocket is a test platform on which Lockheed can explore technologies that the Army might be interested in down the line, said Arnold.

The company is evaluating the integration of a semi-active laser seeker onto the rocket, he said. The technology is derived from the seeker the company uses on its DAGR rocket.

Arnold said the company is also looking at a scalable effects warhead and extending the range of GMLRS with a more maneuverable airframe. The company has two more flight tests planned at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., this year.

[Gubler, A.]

Not sure why saving the CLU will mean anything worth a sh1t but hey IF they can recoup anything of the fortune spent so far then good on them?

Because the CLU can be used to autonomously fire other missiles than the PAM: lofted Hellfire, VL Stinger, etc.

[buglerbilly]

Ares

A Defense Technology Blog

Retired Army Gen. Defends Need for NLOS

Posted by Amy Butler at 4/30/2010 12:07 PM CDT

Gen. Paul Gormon, retired U.S. Army officer and advisor to the service and Darpa, sent us the following letter to sound off on his concerns for the need to move ahead with fielding guided weapons in support of ground soldiers.

In the interest of full disclosure the letter was passed to us by way of Raytheon, NLOS contractor. But, we verified its contents with Gormon, who noted this effort has been under way since the mid-1990s.

At issue is a performance problem with the iPAM seeker, and subsequent reluctance from the Pentagon to continue with development with the ground-based precision fires system.


NLOS-LS: Another critical operational capability on the verge of cancellation.

Paul Gorman (General, U.S. Army, Retired).

Engaged, as is Secretary Gates in the longest war that the United States has ever fought,
he needs to pay closer attention to its growing human costs, not only in lives lost, but also in the
ever-expanding numbers of wounded warriors. Our adversaries know well that it is those
numbers, not the size of the defense budget that will determine success or failure. Congress has
been generous in providing funds to lessen the impact of Improvised Explosive Devices, but that
is a measure/countermeasure contest that the U.S. is far from winning. My advice to Bob Gates –
an old friend and CIA colleague—would be to look as well at force structure and operational
concepts.

Over the past months our enemies in Afghanistan have found it possible to inflict heavy
casualties by attacking the small outposts the coalition has established in the interests of fostering
a presence in the midst of the population, and thus neutralizing anti-government factions. The
very success of that policy has increased the incentive for deadly assaults mounted by skilled,
well-armed fighters who know how to use darkness to creep in close to the defenders. As was the
case in the Pacific islands of World War II, and in Korea and Vietnam, such “hugging tactics”
render defensive fires from artillery and mortars useless in that they fall uselessly behind the
attackers, who rise up suddenly at short range to concentrate their assault weapons on destroying
or suppressing key elements of the defense, such as mortars or TOW. Artillery usually supports
from a distance, well away from the battleground, but because of Afghanistan’s mountains, its
projectiles are typically fired at high-angle, and therefore have extensive range dispersion. When
artillery fires are properly planned and on-call, they are more responsive and continuous, but they
are imprecise. They evidently do not deter the attackers, and they often cause collateral damage
and civilian casualties that gainsay the purpose if having the friendly unit there in the first place.
Only the arrival of aircraft armed with precision weapons gives the enemy pause, and causes
withdrawal. But on the record, even loitering aircraft such as the B-1 or REAPER arrive at least a
half hour or more after the onslaught, by which time the enemy often achieves his intended effect.
Our adaptation to this circumstance can not be to deploy more artillery and mortar units, for
such conventional weapons will necessitate sending to theater skilled crews, guns, ammunition,
trucks, and onerous road-bound logistics, will rarely be useful in stopping a well-executed assault,
and will lead to higher casualties not only by failing to save the defenders, but also by rendering
the force more vulnerable to IED ambush.

Instead, the Secretary might exercise an option to substitute rockets-in-a-box for mortars
and artillery. In the mid-‘90s I assisted DARPA’s development of containerized missiles launched
instantaneously in response to signals on a network. Termed NETFIRES, the DARPA program
centered on a steerable-jet rocket capable of flying to a GPS coordinate up to 40 km away, or of
homing on an infrared image, or of hitting a laser spot. Its warhead would be a fragmentationwrapped,
shaped-charge capable of defeating both soft and hard targets. Moreover, the system
was to function night and day, whatever the weather. Eventually, the system was successfully
transitioned to the Army, and incorporated into its Future Combat System as the Non-Line of
Sight-Launch System (NLOS-LS). NLOS-LS, expected to be fielded in FY 2011, consists of three
elements: (1) the Container Launch Unit (CLU) with 15 missiles and a radio, (2) the Precision
Attack Missile (PAM), and (3) the controlling network, with related communications and
management software. When Sec Def cancelled FCS, NLOS-LS was one of the systems the
Army judged valuable and mature enough for retention and further development.

Up until the recent past, through numerous program reviews and detailed U.S. Army
analyses, NLOS-LS was repeatedly selected for continuation. OSD recognized that over a billion
dollars had been invested in developing NLOS-LS. The Army believed that system could close a
critical capability gap in mutual fire support among forward operating bases, and could do so
without the combat support and combat service support burden entailed by conventional indirect
fire weapon systems. NLOS-LS is platform independent and can be embedded within small units
without extensive training. Strategically, it is adaptable to a wide range of CONOPS, and is rapidly
deployable: a 90 missile NLOS-LS package for 6 FOBs could be deployed to Afghanistan with five
trucks, 11 personnel, and four C-130 sorties. This potential led to accelerated development and
aggressive testing. Haste has presented issues, and precipitated a reexamination of cost
effectiveness.

In a recent Limited User Test (LUT), I understand that PAM did not perform well. I am told
that the prime contractors (Raytheon and Lockheed Martin, partnered in Netfires LLC), have
identified the cause, an untried software enhancement just before the firings, and have remedied
the defect(s).

But in the meantime, costs have been questioned. In December 2009 the Defense
Acquisition Board prompted the Army to conduct an Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) on NLOS-LS
for the BCT. In approximately 30 days a report was delivered that was contrary to previous, more
detailed studies that supported the program’s cost-effectiveness and relevancy. I am told that the
AoA failed to address the serious operational concern that often aviation support isn’t responsive
enough to our soldiers because of weather, terrain and mission priorities. The AoA suggested
Maverick missiles, Hellfire missiles and the Joint Air to Ground missile, which is still in
development, as suitable alternatives to the NLOS-LS PAM. However, all of these missiles are
dependent on aviation platforms constrained by weather, terrain, command and control, and time
to target. In fact, reports from theater suggest that the enemy capitalizes on our lack of
responsiveness, and our inability to cope with bad weather and adverse terrain.

In my view, the Secretary ought to intervene before the budgeters scrap NLOS-LS, and
insure that we field that system, for it surely can prevent friendly casualties, assist the dispersal of
our own and allied forces, and thereby extend the area within which runs the writ of the
government of Afghanistan.

[buglerbilly]

Indian Army Seeks Loitering Missiles

By VIVEK RAGHUVANSHI

Published: 3 May 2010 17:03

NEW DELHI - The Indian Army wants to equip its troops with missiles that can loiter over a target for 30 minutes, and it sent a global request for information (RfI) in March, Defence Minister A.K. Antony told the parliament here in a written response.

The loitering missile would be able to send critical data on enemy installations and later self-destruct on the target.

In the RfI, the Defence Ministry has sought details from the vendors on the missile's cruising speed, the maximum range at which it can engage a target, its loitering time, the range of its data link, its accuracy, ability to attack from the top, and if it can abort after locking onto a target and be redesignated to a new target.

After receipt of the RfI, a formal request for proposals will be issued and the missiles are likely to be procured by the end of 2011, a Defence Ministry official said.

[buglerbilly]

McCain Wants Info from U.S. Army on NLOS-LS

By KATE BRANNEN

Published: 7 May 2010 12:19

With the fate of the Non-Line of Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS) still undecided, Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., is requesting more information from the U.S. Army on its recommendation to Pentagon acquisition chief Ashton Carter.

"I understand that the Army has forwarded a recommendation to the undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics, for its upcoming decision on whether or not to continue the Non-Line of Sight Launch System program," McCain wrote in an April 30 letter to Army Secretary John McHugh. "As such, I request the Army provide the committee with its written recommendation to Dr. Carter, as well as any supporting materials provided to justify the recommendation."

McCain is the top-ranking Republican member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Army spokesman Jimmie Cummings said the service had not yet formally notified Carter of its recommendation for NLOS-LS.

Sources have said that Army senior leaders have completed a review of the service's precision fires portfolio, and decided April 22 to recommend the Pentagon cancel the program.

Carter has the final say on NLOS-LS because it is an acquisition category 1 program.

The Army is still revising the details of its formal written recommendation, but the recommendation itself remains unchanged, sources said.

McCain also wants documentation pertaining to the service's portfolio reviews being led by Gen. Peter Chiarelli, the Army's vice chief of staff. McCain said this information has not yet been made available to the Senate Armed Services Committee.

"As you're aware, the committee is preparing to mark up the fiscal year 2011 National Defense Authorization Act," he wrote. "We would appreciate receiving your recommendation and analysis regarding this program prior to mark-up. Your assessment of this program will assist us in making important resourcing decisions regarding NLOS-LS and other Army and DoD programs."

McCain asked that the requested information be provided no later than May 20.

Originally part of the Army's Future Combat Systems program, NLOS-LS also is intended for the Navy's Littoral Combat Ship. It is being developed by Netfires, a joint venture between Raytheon and Lockheed Martin. Lockheed builds the system's container launcher unit, and Raytheon is responsible for the system's Precision Attack Missile.

[Gubler, A.]

\McCain is the top-ranking Republican member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

He is also the senior Senator for Arizona home of the old Hughes Aviation missile factory where the PAM is built...

[buglerbilly]

Strange-looking thing this one..............:shrug

The new wheeled self-propelled howitzer SOKO SP RR 122/100/105 mm from Yugoimport.


Serbia Serbian Yugoimport SOKO SP RR 122 mm wheeled self-propelled howiter picture

At SOFEX 2010, the Serbian Defence Company Yugoimport present for the first time to the public his new wheeled self-propelled howitzer, the SOKO SP RR 122/100/105 mm. The SOKO SP RR 122/100/105 mm (Self-Propelled Rapid Response) truck mounted gun howitzer family is consisting of three models, based on same truck chassis and gun mount, with three ballistic systems options:

- 122 mm D-30 J howitzer with appropriate standard and HE-BB ammunition, reaching combat ranges of 17.3 km with HE round and 21 km with HE/BB round.

- 100 mm tank gun with appropriate standard ammunition, reaching a maximum range of 24 km.

- 105 mm / 52 cal. long range ballistic system, with appropriate advanced ammunition reaching a range of 30 km with HE/BB round.

[buglerbilly]

Army Cancels Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System

(Source: US Department of Defense; issued May 13, 2010)



The NLOS-LS concept was to package multipurpose battlefield missiles in four-cell vertical launchers carried on a variety of vehicles. (US Army photo)The Department of Defense announced today that it authorized the Army to cancel the Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System and transition management responsibilities for system development and acquisition from the old Future Combat System (FCS) program - currently aligned under Program Executive Office Integration (PEO I) - to the PEOs that already manage similar systems. Both decisions are a result of the Capability Portfolio Reviews, a new process the Army implemented in February.

The Army’s vision is to have an effective, affordable and modernized Army. In pursuit of this goal, the Army’s senior leaders recognize the need to be diligent in their efforts to be responsible stewards of the resources provided and to carefully manage existing programs and budgets. With this obligation in mind, the Secretary of the Army directed the Under Secretary of the Army and the Vice Chief of Staff, Army, to implement a Capability Portfolio Review (CPR) process for a one-year period, effective Feb. 22, 2010.

The intent of this review process is to conduct an Army-wide, all-components revalidation of requirements for all Army Acquisition programs. The Army holistically examines all existing requirements and makes recommendations to terminate ones that are redundant and outdated.

Reviews will focus on eight portfolios: Tactical Wheeled Vehicles, Precision Fires, Air and Missile Defense, Radios and Network, Aviation, Engineer Mobility, Combat Vehicle Modernization and Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR). The intent of this revalidation is to eliminate redundancies and to ensure that funds are properly programmed, budgeted, and executed against the programs that yield the most value to the Army.

The review process revalidates the requirement in each portfolio using a wide-range of criteria, including: combatant commander requests; wartime lessons learned; the ability to support the Army Force Generation (ARFORGEN) model; the potential for leveraging emerging technologies and affordability.

The analysis that has resulted from the Capability Portfolio Reviews conducted to date has clearly highlighted the utility of this new process in building an effective and affordable modernization strategy. The resulting recommendations will continue to assist the Secretary of the Army in establishing future priorities for investment, research, development and acquisition, and life cycle sustainment.

The Capability Portfolio Reviews have yielded two key results to date, including:

1) The Precision Fires portfolio review examined the balance of high-end precision munitions and lower-end near-precision munitions. A detailed analysis of alternatives determined that the Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS) does not provide a cost-effective precision fire capability. The Army intends to pursue other capabilities to engage a moving target in all-weather conditions in order to fulfill the operational requirement defined for the NLOS-LS. As a result, the Army concluded NLOS-LS is no longer required; the Secretary of the Army recommended cancellation and the undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics approved and authorized the request.

Additionally, analysis from the portfolio review concluded a reduction in the number of Excalibur and Accelerated Precision Mortar Initiative rounds was also warranted; the Secretary of the Army also recommended approval of these proposed reductions, which the Department approved as well.

2). In conjunction with the Capability Portfolio Reviews, the Army Acquisition Executive is planning to transition management responsibilities for system development and acquisition from the old FCS program currently aligned under Program Executive Office Integration (PEO I) to the PEOs that already manage similar systems. This realignment will allow the systems to more comprehensively be evaluated as part of the Capability Portfolio Review process. Overall, System of Systems Engineering, Integration and Test will remain the responsibility of PEO I. The remainder of PEO I’s current portfolio will be transitioned as follows:

-- Network Integration Kit (NIK) to PEO Command, Control and Communications Tactical (PEO C3T);
-- Class I Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), currently managed separately, to PEO Aviation;
-- Ground Combat Vehicle (GCV); Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle (SUGV); Multi-mission UGV to Program Executive Office for Ground Combat Systems (PEO GCS);
-- Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS) to Program Executive Office for Intelligence, Electronic Warfare & Sensors (PEO IEWS).

The Army remains committed to integrated development of brigade capabilities. While individual systems will remain under various PEOs, PEO I will be given the expanded mission for integration across those PEOs and their associated portfolios. For example, rather than just integrating the Class 1 UAS into the network, PEO I will ensure that all UAS (e.g. ERMP, Shadow, and Hunter) are fully integrated.

The directed framework of the Capability Portfolio Review process serves as a roadmap to achieving an integrated analysis of all portfolios. Additional portfolio areas may be identified and added in the future. The Secretary of the Army will continue to rely on this process to help him make informed decisions on behalf of the Army.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

U.S. Army To Keep Howitzer Options Open

By KATE BRANNEN

Published: 28 May 2010 17:06

Although the U.S. Army intends to complete its Paladin Integrated Management (PIM) program, the first upgrade to the service's self-propelled howitzers in many years, it may seek a different long-term option, according to senior service officials.

The Army plans to buy 440 Paladin PIM systems to meet "immediate war-fighting needs," said Brig. Gen. Mark Brown, deputy for acquisition and systems management, at a May 27 media roundtable.

Meanwhile, the Fires Center of Excellence and the Army's Training and Doctrine Command will conduct an analysis of alternatives, Brown said.

"They're going to answer the following question: Is PIM the howitzer of the Army's long-term future?" he said.

The PIM program is essentially a service-life extension program of 1950s and 1960s technology, said Brown. After the Army's Crusader program was canceled in 2002 and the Non-Line of Sight Cannon was terminated last year, the Paladin PIM program became the Army's only mobile artillery development program.

"Paladin PIM is absolutely essential to the Army," said Lt. Gen. William Phillips, military deputy to the Army's acquisition executive. But for the long term, Brown said, "the Army may choose instead to go with a 'PIM-plus' or a 'completely new Howitzer.'Ÿ"

By not upgrading the entire fleet of Paladin M109 howitzers, the Army maintains flexibility to pursue something else, said Maj. Gen. Thomas Spoehr, director of force development in the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff (G-8).

If the technology advances, "we have not put all of our eggs in updating 800 howitzers," he said. "It's leapfrogging rather than going after one big thing."

Brown said the alternatives study will wrap up at about the same time the Paladin PIM moves into production, a date the Army has recently pushed back.

In its budget request for 2011, the Army asked for funds to buy 18 Paladin PIM howitzers. However, a new schedule delays a low-rate initial production decision, milestone C, until June 2013, said Phillips.

"The reason we stretched out production to 2013 was not because it's not doable, but we wanted to take a lot of the risk out of the system," Brown told reporters.

The changes followed what Phillips described as a "red team review."

After that was complete, "we made changes internal to the program to align that system with what we believe is a low-risk program that will lead us to complete success," said Phillips.

To realign the program with the Army's new schedule, the Senate Armed Services Committee cut $105.3 million for Paladin PIM procurement funds and added $30 million for PIM research and development to help the program recover from schedule delays, according to a May 28 news release.

Sen. Jim Inhofe, R-Okla., is not pleased with the Army's new schedule for the program.

"Based on the Army's current timeline, we will not see full production rates until 2017 and in the interim period will spend millions of dollars putting band aids on the current fleet of howitzers," wrote Inhofe in a May 5 news release. "The current schedule is unacceptable, and I will be working with Army leadership to shorten that timeline."

BAE Systems is building the Paladin PIM at its facility in Elgin, Okla.

[buglerbilly]

Lockheed Offers Options for Replacing NLOS-LS

Posted by Bradley Peniston | June 16th, 2010

By KATE BRANNEN – Lockheed Martin has responded to a U.S. Navy request for ideas to replace the canceled Non-Line of Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS).


Launch test of the now-canceled Non-Line of Sight Launch System (U.S. Army photo)

After the U.S. Army killed the missiles-in-a-box program, leaving the Littoral Combat Ships without a medium-range weapon, the Navy asked the company, which developed the NLOS-LS’s launch box, for ideas.

“We gave them a menu of solutions, things we can fire out of that NLOS command launch unit,” said Lockheed’s Morri Leland, director of international business development for tactical missiles and combat maneuver systems. “We have weapon options out of that box, if you want to retain the box.”

If the Navy wants to use a different box, Lockheed has offered ideas related to the Multiple Launch Rocket System and the Navy Tactical Missile System (NTACMS), Leland said.

The company has other projects that it has yet to make public that may also satisfy the requirements, he said.

“Some of them are adaptations of our existing weapons,” such as a vertically launched Hellfire missile or the company’s a 2.75-inch DAGR guided rocket that might be fired out of the NLOS-LS box, he said.

NLOS-LS also had an unfunded requirement for Lockheed’s Loitering Attack Missile (LAM). Leland said the NLOS-LS’s cancellation would likely reignite the LAM debate.

[buglerbilly]

BAE Expects U.S. to Order More M777 Howitzers

Posted by Bradley Peniston | June 16th, 2010

By ANDREW CHUTER – BAE Systems is expecting a new order from the U.S. military for its M777 155mm lightweight field howitzer in the next 10 days, said a company official at the show.


M777 Light Towed Howitzer fired by the U.S. Army's 10th Mountain Division in Afghanistan last year. (Photo by Jonathan Mallard)

Bob Preedy, the head of artillery business development at BAE’s Global Combat Systems, declined to detail the size of the deal but said it would include 35 howitzers being ordered for Australia.

So far, 862 weapons have been ordered by the U.S. Army, the Marine Corps and the Canadian Army, of which some 650 have been delivered.

As well, discussions on a U.S. Foreign Military Sales deal with India to buy 145 of the M777s was making “slow but real progress,” said Preedy.

Senior Indian officials recently said they would like to conduct an in-country capability demonstration and conclude negotiations within the next 18 months. The deal could eventually grow substantially beyond the initial purchase of 145.

Besides the M777s that India may buy via the U.S. FMS process, New Delhi is also considering buying other towed howitzers in a separate deal. BAE is competing for that requirement as well.

Another of BAE’s 155mm offerings, the Swedish-developed FH77B05 L52, is competing head-to-head with the FH2000 from ST Engineering of Singapore. In-country summer trials start next week on the weapon. The winner could expect to snare an order for 400 imported howitzers with another 1,180 being produced locally.

[buglerbilly]

Russia to hold talks with France on purchasing artillery navigation system


A Russian Smerch multiple rocket launcher.

10:26 GMT, June 30, 2010 PARIS/MOSCOW | As RIA Novosti reports,

the Russian Defense Ministry will hold talks during an international engineering forum near Moscow with France's Sagem Defense Securite on the possible purchase of a Sigma 30 inertial navigation system.

The Engineering Technologies International Forum 2010 will be held from June 30 through July 4 in the town of Zhukovsky, 40 kilometers southeast of Moscow.

Earlier this month, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Vladimir Popovkin invited the French-based Sagem company (SAFRAN group), a European leader in defense and consumer electronics, for talks in Moscow.

Popovkin said Russia is interested in purchasing the Sigma 30 artillery navigation and pointing system as part of efforts to modernize its Smerch and Grad multiple rocket launchers.


"We are ready to offer Russia the Sigma 30 system for the modernization of the Russian artillery and multiple rocket launchers," a Sagem spokesman told RIA Novosti.

He said Sagem delivers Sigma systems to a wide range of Russian military manufacturers, including Sukhoi.


"There is a demand for the latest navigation and pointing systems because the firing range of the modernized multiple rocket launchers like the Grad has risen from 40 to 50-60 kilometers and fire control systems therefore also need to be modernized," the spokesman said.

The Sigma 30 artillery navigation and pointing system is designed for high-precision firing at short notice. (RIA Novosti)

[buglerbilly]

Innovation Aims to Reduce Collateral Damage in Afghanistan

(Source: US Army; dated July 2, web-posted July 7, 2010)


Soldiers of the 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment display the blue “smurf round” used with the aim of reducing civilian casualties. (US Army photo)

WARDAK PROVINCE, Afghanistan --- While some commands severely restrict artillery fires, one task force in Afghanistan has taken active steps to reduce collateral damage by developing an alternative method.

Task Force King of the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team came up with an alternative to indirect fire missions using solely high-explosive TNT.

Soldiers of the 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment crafted a way to fire non-exploding training rounds in the adjustment phase, and then switch to a lethal one in the fire-for-effect phase. Using this method, fewer live rounds are fired, reducing collateral damage and civilian casualties.

"Our rules of engagement have been a challenge, because our enemy knows when we use artillery in a conventional fire fight there remains a very real possibility of unintended collateral damage," said Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis Woods, 4-319th AFAR. "In our efforts to avoid that, commanders have previously been far less inclined to use artillery. Insurgents are not stupid. This enemy has been using our ROE to avoid our fire support advantage... until now!"

They brought artillery back into the fight in the east-central province of Wardak.

The less lethal training round in use is the M804A1 also known as the "smurf" round due to its blue color. It's a ballistic match for a live high explosive artillery round, meaning the round will have the same effects while in flight from the tube to the target. The difference is in the impact effects.

"The 173 ABCT gives up nothing in terms of effectiveness," Woods said. "The fire-for-effect round is exactly where it would be had we fired all explosive artillery rounds. This new approach that we are using here is more sensitive to the environmental impact issues along with the cultural issues that affect Afghanistan citizens."

Woods said that because Afghanistan is an agrarian society, when high explosives are used, they contaminate the soil. When TNT, RDX, and HMX erode into the fields, crop yields can be harmed, so using less high-explosive rounds is good for Afghanistan's long-term future, as well as posing a far less likelihood for collateral damage.

"The 173rd ABCT is aware how collateral damage separates us from the people. Since the people are the real objective, within a counterinsurgency war, our ability to increase public safety is the moral choice and the strategic choice that best delivers our vision and ROE directives."

By reducing civilian deaths and collateral damage, the Sky Soldiers are meeting the objectives that support the counterinsurgency or COIN doctrine.

"The insurgents are choosing to fight among the people, employing them as human shields," Woods said, adding that they also try to avoid artillery fire by locating near protected structures.

"This technique allows us to pursue the enemy despite his use of human shields. We can fire closer to protected structures with less potential for collateral damage," he said.

Woods attributed the new technique to his Sky Soldiers thinking outside the box to tailor fire effects and deliver "focused lethality."

"So within our Rules Of Engagement, we can still pursue the enemy, as well as negate his avoidance strategy. Instead of complaining about the rules of engagement, we adopted our effects to meet the ROE, developing a morally supportable alternative. This technique also meets one of our brigade commander's counterinsurgency directives: 'fight the enemy's strategy, not his force.'"

Every 155mm M777A2 cannon crew in the 4-319th AFAR has the 'smurf' round on location.

"There aren't many armies that would go to this extent to increase public safety and reduce collateral damage like the 173D Airborne is doing day in and day out," Woods said.

A Task Force King Soldier commented from Sayed Abad, "when the blue training round arrived on location, I asked why they are issuing us less lethal rounds. After learning their purpose in reducing collateral damage, I then asked why we haven't been doing this for the last nine years?"

-ends-

[Wolftrap]

Strange-looking thing this one..............:shrug

Hey Bugs, my take on it ... the SOKO SP is a child of the deficiencies of using military trucks as platforms for artillery. This one was build for better cross country mobility for which they had to sacrifice calibre/range.

[buglerbilly]

BAE Systems M777 Howitzer Programme Exceeds £1bn Sales

(Source: BAE Systems; issued July 19, 2010)



FARNBOROUGH, UK - BAE Systems has received an order for 93 additional M777 howitzers, taking the order book to 955 systems and taking sales for the programme to over £1bn.

The US is buying 58 guns for the US Army and U.S. Marine Corps[ while Australia is acquiring 35 through the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. The order makes Australia the third customer for the M777 system after the U.S. and Canada.
Mike Smith, managing director for BAE Systems’ European Weapons business, commented on the gun acquisition contract: “The purchase of additional howitzers is further endorsement of M777 as the most effective howitzer system of its kind. Its proven combat effectiveness means we expect more orders through 2011 as we continue to promote the system globally.

“The U.S. government is currently discussing the provision of 145 systems to India as well as several other countries. In parallel, BAE Systems is responding to requests for information from a large number of countries wishing to expand their indirect fire capability.”

BAE System’ facility at Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is responsible for final integration and test of the weapon system. The prime contract management of the M777 program and manufacture and assembly of the complex titanium structures and associated recoil components are undertaken at Barrow-in-Furness in the United Kingdom.

The M777 continues to provide artillery support to coalition forces in Afghanistan where its performance exceeds expectations. The gun can fire the “smart” Excalibur round, co-developed by BAE Systems, up to 40 km (25m) accurately enough to target a specific room within a building, reducing the chance of innocent casualties and allowing supporting fire to be brought down much closer to friendly troops.

BAE Systems has also recently agreed to provide an $18m (£12m) support package for M777 directly with Canada, which is procuring 37 guns via FMS. The contract covers the supply of spares and engineering support.

Weighing in at less than 4200kg, the revolutionary M777 is the world’s first artillery weapon to make widespread use of titanium and aluminium alloys, resulting in a howitzer which is half the weight of conventional 155mm systems. This allows it to be deployed by medium-lift helicopter quickly and beyond the reach of roadside bombs to otherwise inaccessible areas, extending its reach over the theatre of operations.

The M777 effort is managed by the US Army/Marines Light Weight 155mm Joint Program Office at Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey.

BAE Systems is a global defence, security and aerospace company with approximately 107,000 employees worldwide. The Company delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. In 2009 BAE Systems reported sales of £22.4 billion (US $36.2 billion).

-ends-

[Wolftrap]

“[B]The U.S. government is currently discussing the provision of 145 systems to India as well as several other countries. In parallel, BAE Systems is responding to requests for information from a large number of countries wishing to expand their indirect fire capability.”

That refers to the Indian tender for ultra light weight howitzers. However, due to the CBI investigation, it remains to be seen how the trials progress as in India, a tender with only one bidder usually mandates the restart of the whole tender process...

[buglerbilly]

That refers to the Indian tender for ultra light weight howitzers. However, due to the CBI investigation, it remains to be seen how the trials progress as in India, a tender with only one bidder usually mandates the restart of the whole tender process...

Ahh I forgot about that, Indian procurement is often a contradictory and confusing mess, a bit like doing business with a lot of Indian companies unfortunately................

[Milne Bay]

There is so much news coming out about Indian military procurement, that it prompts the question - just how big is the Indian defence budget?
How does it compare with other countries in the region?
They seem to have very deep pockets.
MB

[buglerbilly]

Two references here: -


Union Budget 2010: Govt raises defence allocation to Rs 147,344 cr

26 Feb 2010, 1517 hrs IST,IANS

NEW DELHI: India's defence expenditure has been raised to Rs.147,344 crore for 2010-11, up 8.13 percent from the revised estimates of the previous fiscal, in the budget presented by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee in the Lok Sabha Friday.

"Secure borders and security of life and property fosters development. I propose to increase the allocation for defence to Rs.147,344 crore. This would include Rs.60,000 crore for capital expenditure," Mukherjee said in his budget speech.

"Needless to say, any additional requirement for the security of the nation will be provided for," he added.

Though the expenditure has been hiked by Rs.11,080 crore, in real terms however, the hike works out to only 3.98 percent as Rs.141,703 crore had originally been allocated for 2009-10 but this was later revised to Rs.136,264 crore.

As in the past, the 1.2 million-strong Indian Army has been granted the lion's share, but at Rs.58,995 crore this Rs.439 crore lower than in revised allocation for 2009-10 and Rs.1,275 crore lower than the original allocation for the fiscal.

The Indian Navy has been allocated Rs.9,455 crore, just Rs.16 crore higher than its revised figure of Rs.9,439 crore for the previous fiscal but Rs.1,011 crore more than its original allocation of Rs.8,404 crore.

In the case of the Indian Air Force, its allocation of Rs.15,803 crore is Rs.529 crore higher than the revised allocation of Rs.15,274 crore for the previous fiscal and Rs.892 crore higher than the original figure.

Rather surprisingly, the allocation for defence ordnance factories has been slashed by Rs.1,835 crore to Rs.1,999 crore against Rs.3,834 crore in the previous fiscal.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has got a hike of Rs.881 crore to Rs.5,260 crore from its revised allocation of Rs.4,379 crore in the previous fiscal.

From Wikipedia...........

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Armed_Forces


Budget

Military spending of the worldIndia has the world's 10th largest defense budget. In 2009, India's official military budget stood at $32.7 billion.[62] In 2004, the GlobalSecurity.org estimated India's budget to be around $100 billion in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP).[63] According to Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, India's military budget (PPP) stood at $72.7 billion in 2007.[64] A major portion of India's current defense budget is devoted to the ambitious modernization program of the country's armed forces. Between 2007 and 2012, India is expected to spend about $50 billion on the procurement of new weapons.[65] India boosted defence spending by 21% in 2009.[66]

[buglerbilly]

BAE Systems IMX-101 Explosive Approved to Replace TNT in U.S. Army Artillery

(Source: BAE Systems; issued July 26, 2010)

ROCKVILLE, Md. --- The U.S. Army has approved a new BAE Systems explosive as the first safer and effective alternative to replace TNT in artillery. The decision is a major step toward the production and use of a new family of high-performance insensitive munitions that are designed not to detonate under conditions other than the intended mission.

The company’s IMX-101 explosive is significantly more stable than conventional TNT, making it safer for troops to transport and handle. TNT typically behaves violently if subjected to an accidental stimulus, such as fire. TNT-loaded munitions also are susceptible to enemy attack.

Conversely, the new generation of insensitive munitions is designed to sustain chemical stability when subjected to mechanical shocks, fire, and impact by shrapnel, while performing as intended, when needed.


“IMX-101 explosive has the potential to revolutionize military ordnance,” said Jerry Hammonds, vice president and general manager of ordnance solutions for BAE Systems. “This transformation will help save lives on and off the battlefield.”

The Army has initially slated the explosive formulation as a TNT replacement in the new IM M795 155-millimeter artillery munition. It also has deemed IMX-101 a suitable replacement for any large-caliber munitions requiring the energetic performance equivalent to TNT.

BAE Systems developed IMX-101 in partnership with the Army at the Holston Army Ammunition Plant in Kingsport, Tennessee.

BAE Systems manages and operates the Holston plant for the government, with a total of about 700 employees and subcontractors.

BAE Systems is a global defense, security and aerospace company with approximately 107,000 employees worldwide. The Company delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. In 2009 BAE Systems reported sales of £22.4 billion (US$ 36.2 billion).

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Marines Forced to Lean on Contractors for Fire Support



by Craig Hooper
Defense Tech Naval Warfare Analyst

New M777 ultra-lightweight titanium-enhanced howitzers make for a great technical buzz, but one wise Marine, SGT Timothy Caucutt, wonders if the Corps will be able to actually use it without the help of private-sector Tech Reps. His award-winning essay in this month’s Marine Corps Gazette, “Paying pirates: Fire supports’ dependence upon contractors” is a must-read. Here’s a sample:


“Computer systems frequently malfunction, but using civilians to troubleshoot these programs undermines fire support’s ability to be “semper flexiblis.” As a result, the skill of uniformed operators has atrophied. Fixing this problem requires the Marine Corps to reduce its dependency on contractors and train Marines instead.

Artillery, mortars, naval guns, and close air support (CAS) are well-known components of the Corps’ war machine, but behind the rockets and explosions lies an obscured necessity—automation. The fire support community depends upon various automated systems, including the advanced field artillery tactical data system and several command and control (C2) personal computer programs. These systems compute firing data, track statuses, maintain digital communications, and facilitate many more vital tasks. A battlespace commander must have this information to maximize his firing assets.

Marines are the system operators, but when they run into difficulty their primary course of action is calling a contractor. Troublesome in training, this lack of independence can be lethal in combat…”

SGT Caucutt’s cautionary tale points to a systemic weakness in the low-profile world of obscure Command and Control technology–mundane stuff that the tip-of-the-spear technology needs to do the job

Read more: http://defensetech.org/#ixzz0vsMuAjUf
Defense.org

Article here............

Paying Pirates

Fire support’s dependence on contractors

Description: The end product of the whole system--steel on target. .

Author: Sgt Timothy Caucutt

2009 Chase Prize Essay Contest: Second Place

On a cool morning at Twentynine Palms, an artillery regiment’s fire for effect interrupts the quiet. Not far from the impact area, an infantry battalion conducts maneuver operations. Closing in on the notional enemy, the commander orders the fire mission repeated. Silence. The time on target comes and goes, but no rounds impact. In the fire direction center (FDC), an automated system operator has lost digital communications with the subordinate battalions. Troubleshooting commences. An hour later the operations chief directs a Marine to phone a field service representative (FSR) who promptly fixes the problem. Then, the maneuver commander receives his fire support.

Computer systems frequently malfunction, but using civilians to troubleshoot these programs undermines fire support’s ability to be “semper flexiblis.” As a result, the skill of uniformed operators has atrophied. Fixing this problem requires the Marine Corps to reduce its dependency on contractors and train Marines instead.

Artillery, mortars, naval guns, and close air support (CAS) are well-known components of the Corps’ war machine, but behind the rockets and explosions lies an obscured necessity—automation. The fire support community depends upon various automated systems, including the advanced field artillery tactical data system and several command and control (C2) personal computer programs. These systems compute firing data, track statuses, maintain digital communications, and facilitate many more vital tasks. A battlespace commander must have this information to maximize his firing assets.

Marines are the system operators, but when they run into difficulty their primary course of action is calling a contractor. Troublesome in training, this lack of independence can be lethal in combat. 1st Battalion, 6th Marines’ (1/6’s) Commanding Officer, LtCol Anthony Henderson, notes how his StrikeLink operators (a CAS system used to acquire and transmit target data) struggled to perform proficiently without FSRs in Afghanistan:

Many problems arose by Marines not having proper field experience with the STRIKELINK Tactical Location and Digital Hand-Off System (TLDHS) call for fire system. This capability was first introduced to the Forward Observer Teams at Kandahar Airfield (KAF) and due to lack of training, troubleshooting could not be effectively employed. In training, STRIKELINK worked well under the supervision of the Civilian contractors [emphasis mine].1

Nonuniformed experts held up Henderson’s Marines. During an earlier conflict, pirates manning artillery pieces helped GEN Andrew Jackson win the Battle of New Orleans.2 Today, the Marine Corps is similarly dependent upon civilian assistance.

At its core, this weakness derives from training deficiencies. MOS schools equip Marines with basic skills, and the Marine Corps relies on subsequent training to turn junior operators into experts. This method is failing. Although Operating Forces Marines attend classes across the fire support community, system operators are not fully prepared for war. Navy/Marine Corps Departmental Publication 3500.54A (NavMC 3500.54A), C2 Training and Readiness Manual (C2 T&R Manual), is flawed. It stipulates that with only an extra week or two of training, Marines become “advanced” operators.3 Such requirements fail to consider that students need more time to master their system’s technical intricacies. Moreover, with other mandatory training packed between deployments, units cannot allocate time and money for training that the manual prescribes. As a crutch, the Corps hires contractors.

This unofficial doctrine creates a culture of dependency. According to the Contractor Engineering and Technical Services Personnel Manual, nonuniformed instructors should be transient. These civilians are to equip Marines to “become capable of maintaining and operating the weapon systems and equipment,”4 but in actuality, students are poorly taught. Instructors merely conduct step-action drills and hope Marines pay attention. When operators fail to record complete instructions, fire support is delayed or never delivered—unless the hired help is present.

High turnover rates reinforce the status quo by depriving units of seasoned operators. Experience teaches best, but most Marines are limited to only 3 years on station. Because incoming operators may have spent time away from the Operating Forces and bypassed years of modernization, they rarely achieve anything beyond basic proficiencies. For instance, many battery FDC Marines cannot perform functions beyond fire mission computations and inputting common data. Higher up the spectrum, fire support coordination center (FSCC) Marines can only gain expertise after months of intense study, but they are not afforded this luxury. All told, the Corps’ adeptness with fire support hangs by a thread.

Reform does not lie on the horizon. In 2008 the government renewed a contract that guaranteed that the Marine Corps can cut corners a bit longer:

Computer Science Corp. [CSC], Falls Church, Va., is being awarded $6,603,439 for task order #0065 . . . support for fielded tactical C4ISR [command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance] systems for Marine Corps Operating Forces (OPFORs). Technical support under this effort includes on-site/on-call support at the MCTSSA [Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity] Operating Forces Tactical Systems Support Center (OFTSSC), on-site technical representation at specified Marine Corps Command organizations worldwide, exercise support based upon the operational schedule of the supported units, and support of contingency operations (e.g., hazardous duty, combat operations, peace-keeping). . . .5

Task order #0065 solidified the Marine Corps’ aversion to expertly training Marines. One year later, #0074 reinstated the order and added over $11 million.6

Reliance on basically prepared Marines falls short of the Corps’ standard. Traditionally, victory is achieved by equipping warriors with advanced combat skills, teaching them how to fight under any conditions. When infantry units deploy, no contractor is present to troubleshoot machinegun malfunctions. Weapons knowledge is ingrained, second nature, and vital. As this formula fades from fire support, the outlook is grim.

The Marine Corps must not assume that total war is gone. While the Iraq and Afghanistan theaters safely harbor contractors behind the wire, these havens may not always exist. Has the Marine Corps forgotten our foundry—Iwo Jima, Okinawa, Inchon—when safe locations were nonexistent? Sometimes contractors venture into hot zones, but the current fight is limited. In the future the Corps has no guarantee that civilians will weather freezing rain, thick mud, and enemy airstrikes. If the Marine Corps fights a technologically advanced nation (e.g., Iran, China, or North Korea) contractors will likely abandon ranks.

But a more urgent crisis is at hand. For nearly a decade the military enjoyed few fiscal restraints, and the fire support community has not seriously considered that the government may someday remove contractors from the payrolls. Already President Barack Obama and Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates are slashing major defense projects,7 and the deepening recession may precipitate further cuts. If the government rescinds a company’s contract, a great portion of fire systems knowledge will disappear overnight. Departing contractors will leave Marines out in the cold.

Supporters of the status quo hold that the Corps’ recent fire support successes validate the current model. Indeed, Marines are as deadly now as they have ever been, but below the surface, computer operators lack expert knowledge. Marines offset training deficiencies through irregular training events, rote learning, and FSR visits. Skeptics further surmise that hiring contractors is the best use for the Corps’ money, but this assessment is shortsighted. A cost-benefit comparison reveals that immediate investments save future resources: $18 million (CSC’s bill since 2008) spent properly training Marines will reap rewards beyond those of another $18 million handed to military contractors.

Eight years ago the Marine Corps understood that without more comprehensive training, advances in digital automation would outpace a Marine’s ability to operate the systems. A 2d MarDiv study concluded that doctrine regarding automated C2 systems training was ambiguous, and that:

[b]eyond operators’ courses, no formal training standards [existed] for individual C2 system proficiency, and no unit-level standards [existed].8

The study also found that due to these factors Marines resisted C2 system integration.9 In response, the Corps revamped its doctrine and stipulated specific training requirements and standards.

These reforms have proved ineffective. Operation IRAQI FREEDOM commenced shortly after the study, hindering a vigorous overhaul. The team recommended more Operating Forces training, but an increased operations tempo has stood in the way. Thus, for most of the last decade, contractors helped the Marine Corps do what it was too busy to do itself—skillfully operate automated fire support systems. Certainly, a better way of doing things is in order.

To maintain combat independence, the Marine Corps must redefine “systems expert.” Currently, NavMC 3500.54A specifies appropriate training intervals for Marines who work with fire support systems,10 but the order fails to mandate comprehensive training or acknowledge busy operation tempos. A better goal is to make experts from the start. The C2 T&R Manual should consider automated systems’ complex nature and require that Marines be trained in computer science. These courses would extend beyond the current and incomplete methods; indeed, the Marine Corps must establish a new MOS to create a cadre of uniformed computer system experts. Several new job specialties consolidated under one occupational field are needed to address the Corps’ diverse fire support automation needs. Units would benefit exponentially from these modernized warriors. (See Figure 1 for training requirements.)

Specialists would be the Corps’ primary systems experts, understanding how computers and communications networks function. They would assist, not replace, current operators. Divided into teams, these systems “mechanics” could acquire upgrades and teach new software. Deployed specialists could repair networks and software in any clime or place. As their careers progress, senior experts would recommend software changes and updates to manufacturers. Under this initiative the fire support community would need contractors only to develop and teach the new MOS. Eventually, Marines themselves will become the primary instructors.

Finding adept students will be relatively simple and may not require large bonuses or increased benefits. Many high school and college graduates are seeking computer-based jobs and training,11 giving the Corps unprecedented access to an emerging pool of viable recruits and officer candidates. Moreover, contracted companies offer technology-savvy civilians the opportunity to serve one’s country. A large part of this market is ready to assume the mantle of high-tech warriors.

As the Marine Corps enters a new decade, it should determine whether Marines are fully adapting to contemporary warfare. Maneuver tactics have modernized, but training in fire support automation is stagnating. To remain at the spear’s tip, Marines must master a new type of warfighting.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Notes

1. Henderson, LtCol Anthony, Topic: StrikeLink, 12 December 2008, accessed 27 January at https://www.mccll.usmc.mil//index.cfm?disp=lms.cfm&doit=view&lmsid=44796.

2. Howe, Daniel, What Hath God Wrought, Oxford University Press Inc., New York, 2009.

3. Department of the Navy, NavMC 3500.54A, accessed 19 November 2009 at http://www.marines.mil/news/publications/Documents/NAVMC%203500_54A.pdf.

4. U.S. Marine Corps, Marine Corps Order P12304.1, Contractor Engineering and Technical Services Personnel Manual, accessed 15 August 2009 at http://www.marines.mil/news/publications/Documents/MCO%20P12304.1.pdf.

5. GlobalSecurity.org. Contracts dated 29 September 2008, accessed 20 November 2009 at http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2008/09/dod-contract....

6. Defense.gov. Contracts, 5 November 2009, accessed 20 November 2009 at http://www.defense.gov/contracts/contract.aspx?contractid=4155.

7. Shalal-Esa , Andrea, “Congress slams defense budget cuts,” accessed 17 December 2009 at http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE53600C20090407.

8. Liebe R., W. Wright, and E. Blake, Regimental Combat Operations Center Study for 2d Marine Division, Studies Analysis Division, 23 July 2002, accessed 24 February at https://www.
mccll.usmc.mil/document_repository/Misc/2002%202nd%20MarDiv%20C2%20Study.pdf.

9. Ibid.

10. NavMC 3500.54A.

11. Marsan, Carolyn D., “Computer science major is cool again,” Network World, 17 March 2009, accessed 17 December 2009 at http://www.networkworld.com/news/2009/031409-computer-science-majors.htm....

[buglerbilly]

Kongsberg Wins ODIN Contract for Artillery System

By GERARD O'DWYER

Published: 18 Aug 2010 15:34

HELSINKI - Norway and Sweden have chosen Kongsberg Defence Systems (KDS) to adapt and supply its ODIN Artillery Fire System for the Archer self-propelled artillery system. The contract carries an initial estimated value of $16 million, and is part of the joint Norwegian-Swedish artillery cooperation program centered on the procurement of 48 Archer systems.

ODIN is designed to manage an artillery system's operations through the chain of command and integrated inspection instruments, communication systems, command posts and guns.

The contract secured by KDS was signed with the Norwegian and Swedish defense material procurement agencies, Forvarets Logistikk Organisajon (FLO) and Forsvarets Materielverk (FMV).

The two-year contract marks the continuation of a deal signed in March by KDS and the Norwegian Armed Forces. The ODIN system is scheduled for delivery in 2012.

ODIN is to be integrated with the Archer 155mm self-propelled guns ordered by Sweden and Norway from BAE Systems Bofors, Karlskoga, Sweden. This project will see each country invest $1.2 billion to acquire an initial 24 units. Archer has been developed as a light, mobile, air-portable, highly automated system.

The Archer system comprises BAE's FH77-B05 155mm/52 caliber cannon mounted on a modified Volvo six-wheel commercial truck. The Archer is capable of hitting targets at ranges of up to 50 kilometers (31 miles) with rocket-boosted ammunition.

[ADMk2]

In the latest edition of ADM magazine, they advise on page 17, that Army's first M777A2 155mm lightweight towed howitzer will be delivered this month (August) to allow training activities to commence, with the first batch of 10x guns to be delivered in March 2011, with an IOC of the first battery being mid-2011...

[buglerbilly]

More on BAE's new Insensitive Munitions IMX-101..............

Army’s TNT Replacement Only Detonates On Command

By Katie Drummond August 19, 2010 | 10:13 am



The Army’s set to roll out a new explosive for large-caliber munitions; military-funded developers estimate that it’ll nudge out TNT “within a decade.”

Called IMX-101 (which stands for Insensitive Munitions Explosive) the explosive is one successful result of a four-year Pentagon-funded effort that sought to replace TNT — military munitions’ longtime staple. First to go will be M795 artillery projectiles: 1,200 produced with IMX-101 instead of TNT will be delivered to the Army and Marine Corps by 2011.

The appeal of eliminating TNT comes down to safety, both in transport and storage. The compound’s extreme volatility means that a TNT-loaded munition will detonate, with fatal implications, if struck by an IED or a rocket-powered grenade. In Iraq and Afghanistan, where both threats are everyday occurrences, that’s an ongoing safety risk — one that’s accompanied by significant costs to store and transport TNT while trying to minimize danger.

“But with IMX-101, all that would happen is the explosive would deflagrate (burn quickly), and the shell would break into a few pieces,” Charlie Patel, a program-management engineer for Project Manager Combat Ammunition Systems, says of the key difference between the two explosives. “You wouldn’t have the big detonation that would wipe out the vehicle and driver or a whole storage area and crew.”

IMX-101 is just as lethal as TNT, and was the least expensive and safest alternative to TNT among 23 options — submitted by government agencies and private companies after a 2007 military solicitation — all of which were tested by a team of scientists and engineers at Picatinny Arsenal.

Successfully producing a less sensitive explosive, in this case, was a question of ingredients. IMX-101, developed by BAE Systems, is more thermally stable than TNT. “We’re taking the conventional explosive and replacing it with a group of ingredients that are less sensitive,” Philip Samuels, a Picatinny chemical engineer, says in a press release.

Two of the ingredients, DNAN and NTO, started undergoing manufacture by BAE researchers in 2001, in the early stages of efforts to replace TNT. The production was spurred by a realization among BAE’s scientists that “try[ing] to make a safer TNT-based explosive,” was largely impossible. Whenever they tried, the new explosive wasn’t nearly as powerful. Instead, they opted to “find a way to produce the potentially more suitable, but not readily available, insensitive replacement for TNT.”

And since the Army’s already got a facility at the Holston Army Ammunition Plant that’s producing DNAN and NTO — it’s where BAE started manufacturing the compounds — the transition to IMX-101 is financially feasible, especially once production scales up. And the explosive has already passed a two-year battery of tests, including attacks from rocket-propelled grenades, in which projectiles loaded with IMX-101 were able to thwart “propagation from one round to another,” which would otherwise yield accidental, potentially lethal, explosions.

Here’s hoping the tests were as thorough as they sound: Picatinny researchers took the liberty of fast-tracking IMX-101 approval, paring what’s typically a five-year test period down to only two. But if all goes according to plan, IMX-101 will soon be in storage, transit and use overseas — in larger quantities than TNT, and closer to troop quarters too. And BAE is already prepping a version for 105mm M1 cartridges.

“This is just the beginning,” Samuels says. “Over the next 10 years, I could foresee TNT being totally gone.”

Photo: U.S Army

Read More http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2010/08/armys-tnt-replacement-only-detonates-on-command/#more-29471#ixzz0x3xt6KnF

[buglerbilly]

Raytheon Beats ATK to Win Excalibur Job

By KATE BRANNEN

Published: 27 Aug 2010 12:30

The U.S. Army has selected Raytheon over ATK to continue development of the next-generation of Excalibur 1B GPS-guided artillery rounds, according to a DOD contract announcement.

On Aug. 25, Raytheon received a $22 million cost-plus-incentive-fee contract for Excalibur 155mm Increment 1B artillery rounds, the announcement said. The contract was awarded after a 23-month competitive development and prototyping effort between Raytheon and ATK, including a competitive shoot-off this summer.

If successful during this phase, Raytheon could produce as many as 3,430 projectiles for the Army after its weapon passes tests, said Picatinny Arsenal spokesman Peter Rowland.

The Excalibur 1B munition is the next generation of the 1A rounds, produced by Raytheon and in use in Iraq and Afghanistan.

After a review of its precision fires portfolio, the Army decided to buy just 6,000 Excalibur 1B rounds, far fewer than the planned 30,000. That sent the unit cost of the rounds soaring, causing a Nunn-McCurdy breach.

The Army is still going through the required Nunn-McCurdy review, which is scheduled for completion by Jan. 13, 2011, said Lt. Col. Michael Milner, Excalibur product manager for the Army.

Delivery of the Excalibur 1B rounds is projected to occur in 2012, according to a Raytheon statement.

Excalibur 1B is required to hit targets out to 35 kilometers.

Excalibur Increment 1b, when fielded, is expected to provide a more reliable precision munition for less money, according to the Army.

[buglerbilly]

Patria’s Nemo Mortar System Selected for LAV II Vehicles

(Source: Patria; issued Sept. 3, 2010)

LAV II's? Export? Saudi Refresher order for more Lav II's?


Patria’s Nemo 120mm rifled mortar, seen here in twin-tube configuration on an AMV, will now be fitted to LAV II vehicles exported by the United States. (Patria photo)

Patria Nemo 120 mm mortar system has been selected as weaponry for LAV II vehicles delivered by General Dynamics Land Systems - Canada as an FMS project by the US Government.

Patria and Mecar S.A. from Belgium have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for an undisclosed number of Patria Nemo systems.

Patria is the global market leader in turreted mortar systems. Patria Nemo is a 120 mm remote controlled mortar turret, offering excellent signature management and ballistic protection as well as providing both direct and indirect fire support.

Patria Nemo system has been earlier selected by the Slovenian Armed Forces and the United Arab Emirates Navy.

Patria is a defence, security and aerospace group with international operations delivering its customers competitive solutions based on own specialist know-how and partnerships. Patria is owned by the State of Finland and the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company EADS N.V.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

This report from DefPro has an illustration below that shows the single-barrel version NOT the twin barrel one above.............the title may be misleading as they will be built in Canada but do NOT have a clear customer identifed

Patria’s Nemo Mortar System Selected for Canadian LAV II Vehicles


Patria Nemo system on an AMV chassis.

15:22 GMT, September 2, 2010 Patria Nemo 120 mm mortar system has been selected as weaponry for LAV II vehicles delivered by General Dynamics Land Systems - Canada as an FMS project by the US Government. Patria and Mecar S.A. from Belgium have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for an undisclosed number of Patria Nemo systems

[buglerbilly]

Raytheon Victory In Competition for Revolutionary Round Looks Unlikely to Generate Robust Returns

(Source: Lexington Institute; issued September 13, 2010)

(© Lexington Institute; reproduced by permission)

It's a good thing that Raytheon's overseas sales are growing fast, because business conditions in its home market look less than rosy. A case in point is the company's recent victory in its competition with Alliant Techsystems to build the most accurate artillery shell in the world.

Raytheon won the competition in August, but a week later Tony Capaccio of Bloomberg Business News reported that the Army planned to slash the production goal for the munition -- called Excaliber (sic) -- from 30,000 rounds to 6,000. Having already assembled about 3,000 Excalibers (sic), Raytheon now realizes the program isn't likely to be much of a franchise for the future.

Stories like this will become more common in the munitions business as the U.S. withdraws from Iraq and then begins scaling down its presence in Afghanistan. Demand will soften as fewer rounds are expended in war zones and the frequency of training activity declines. But Excaliber (sic) is a unique case, because it is the only artillery round the Army has that can compete with the accuracy of a smart bomb like Boeing's Joint Direct Attack Munition.

Specifically, precision guidance capability built into the Excaliber (sic) munition enables it to hit within ten yards of intended targets after being fired from over 20 miles away. That means a sure kill almost every time the round is fired, which is something new in the annals of field artillery. It also means fewer unintended casualties among noncombatants, which should have been a major selling point in hearts-and-minds campaigns where one of the biggest fears U.S. planners have is that innocent locals will be killed by errant bombs.

So what went wrong? Well, the first problem was that Excaliber (sic) was introduced relatively late in overseas conflicts, and troops had little experience with its use. A second problem was that production rates never accelerated to a point where Raytheon could achieve the economies of scale necessary to slash the high unit cost. A third problem was that bureaucratic proponents of other solutions had more influence when the time came to streamline the Army's approach to precision fires.

One thing that did not go wrong, though, was the actual performance of the munition: by most accounts, Excaliber (sic) is a remarkably accurate, even revolutionary munition. So it's too bad the Army has decided to make it a "silver bullet," rather than buying enough to adequately equip the whole force.

Excaliber (sic) isn't the only Army weapons program to encounter hard times recently. The Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter was killed in 2008. The Future Combat System, supposedly the centerpiece of Army modernization, was terminated in 2009. The Non-Line-Of-Sight Launch System was canceled this year. And some observers think next year could see major delays in the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle conceived to replace the Army's thousands of Humvee light trucks.

But Excaliber (sic) is a special case because even at a high unit cost the program doesn't cost much, and it really has the potential to revolutionize how artillery is used on the battlefield. Maybe the Army has something better waiting in the wings, but it's just as likely the decision to slash Excaliber (sic) wasn't thought through as carefully as it should have been.

-ends-

[Exsandgroper]

In the latest edition of ADM magazine, they advise on page 17, that Army's first M777A2 155mm lightweight towed howitzer will be delivered this month (August) to allow training activities to commence, with the first batch of 10x guns to be delivered in March 2011, with an IOC of the first battery being mid-2011...

From DoD Image Galleries 2010.

Minister for Defence Stephen Smith visits Puckapunyal Army Base. (Shows two photos of the 1st delivered M777A2.)

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2010/Oct/20101001b/index.htm

Cheers

[Riđđu]

Patria’s Nemo Mortar System Selected for LAV II Vehicles

(Source: Patria; issued Sept. 3, 2010)

LAV II's? Export? Saudi Refresher order for more Lav II's?



Shh, don´t tell rumours like that for your Marxist-Leninist friends!

[Riđđu]

Only unitary rounds? :supergay And they ask permission to upgrade 24 units when we only have 22?


Finland to Upgrade M270 MLRS Weapon System

armoredd-daily.com



The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress Sept. 29 of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Finland for the upgrade of 24 M270 Multiple Launch Rocket Systems and associated parts, equipment, and logistical support for a complete package worth approximately $100 million.
[/URL]
The Government of Finland has requested the sale for the upgrade of (24) M270 Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS) to the Universal Fire Control System configuration, (1) M31 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System Unitary, (1) Army Tactical Missile System T2K, (36) Ruggedized Memory Units, (25) Interface devices, (8) M68 to M68A2 trainers, tools, support and test equipment, spare and repair parts, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated cost is $100 million.


The proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by improving the security of a friendly nation that has been, and continues to be, an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe.
[URL="http://armoredd-daily.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/MFC_MLRS_photo1.jpg"] (http://armoredd-daily.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/MFC_MLRS_photo2.jpg)
Finland will use this equipment to modernize its armed forces by expanding its existing architecture to counter threats from potential attacks. This will contribute to the Finnish military’s goal to update its capability while further enhancing interoperability among Finland, the U.S., and other allies. Finland, which already has M270 MLRS in its inventory, will have no difficulty absorbing these upgraded systems.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
The prime contractor will be Lockheed Martin Industries in Camden, Arkansas. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.


Implementation of this proposed sale will require approximately ten U.S. Government or contractor representatives to travel to Finland for a period of up to one year for equipment de-processing/fielding, system checkout and training.


There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.
This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.

[buglerbilly]

PLA Makes Big Investments In Artillery

Oct 6, 2010

By Richard D. Fisher, Jr.
Alexandria, Va.



The International Institute for Strategic Studies’ Military Balance 2010 report places China third in the number of artillery systems it fields, after Russia and North Korea. But China doubtless exceeds both in resource commitment and breadth of artillery investments. Credited with an estimated 17,700-plus towed, self-propelled and rocket systems, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has at least 56 artillery systems in use, development or available for export. The U.S. Army and Marine Corps, by contrast, have 8,137-plus artillery pieces of roughly 10 types.

China has had a mixed record of using artillery for military and political-military goals. Its successes, as when it routed Indian forces in 1962 with the high-altitude use of artillery and mortars, have been offset by incidents provoking third-party responses or leading to regional standoffs. Examples include the shelling of islands controlled by Taiwan in 1955-58, resulting in U.S. intervention and a stalemate over the Taiwan Strait. In July, a unit based in the Nanjing military region fired missiles from 300-mm. PHL-03 multiple rocket launchers (MRLs) into the Yellow Sea to show China’s anger at U.S. naval exercises with South Korea. The exercises, a result of China-backed North Korea’s sinking of the South Korean frigate Cheonon in March, went ahead anyway.

China’s evolution as an artillery power stems from Soviet and Russian influences dating to the Korean War. Soviet artillery and training improved PLA artillery operations during the war and led to the formation of the first formal artillery command. Soviet aid continued through the 1950s, and by the time of the Sino-Soviet split of the 1960s, China was producing copies or modified versions of Soviet pieces.

The PLA makes extensive use of Soviet-origin 152-, 130- and 122-mm. calibers, though Western calibers such as the 155- and 105-mm. are seeing greater use.China purchased the Russian 9A52 Smerch 300-mm. MRL in the 1990s, and the PLA produced a near facsimile in the A-100/PHL-03 MRL. The 155-mm. PLZ-05 self-propelled artillery system that emerged in 2005 bears an uncanny resemblance to the Russian 2S19 MSTA.

In the 1990s, PLA artillery was affected by reforms in strategy (its closest concept to doctrine) and organization. Toward the end of the decade, the PLA was immersed in strategy goals of “informatization” and “mechanization.” The former included the broad application of improving information technologies, which for artillery included new computer-based fire controls and ever-improving digital communication and command linkages. PLA artillery units increasingly include fire-finding counter-battery radar such as the 50-km.-range (31-mi.) SLC-2 and Type 704, and use sophisticated electronic warfare systems such as the Russian SPR-2 radio fuse jammer, a possible Chinese facsimile and possibly a recently revealed artillery radar jammer. Artillery recon vehicles and recon troops feature advanced optronic and digital communication capabilities. In addition, PLA artillery units have sophisticated meteorological capabilities and use muzzle velocity radar to improve accuracy.

Mechanization put renewed emphasis on developing tracked and wheeled self-propelled tubed artillery, with rocket artillery largely truck-mounted. This trend was emphasized in late 2004 when Chinese Communist Party and PLA leader Hu Jintao enunciated the PLA’s new “historic missions,” a euphemism for invasions, which call on the PLA to defend state interests abroad. It is likely that new medium-weight artillery systems based on airmobile armored personnel carriers will follow for these strategic missions.

Organic PLA artillery units have decreased in size, following the pattern of general large-scale troop reductions. When combined with “informatization” advances, this will permit many infantry and armored divisions to be reformed into mechanized brigades. However, in a counter-trend that emphasizes their continued importance, the PLA maintains five independent artillery divisions and 20 independent brigades. Of these, two divisions and six brigades are stationed in the Shenyang and Beijing military regions, for potential Korean contingencies. Three divisions and eight brigades are in the Nanjing, Guangzhou and Jinan military regions, for Taiwan contingencies.

Among artillery systems, mortars include a 60-mm. hand-held system used by infantry and special forces. The new Type 93 60-mm. fixed mortar weighs 22.4 kg. (49.2 lb.) and fires 20 rounds/min. to 5.5 km. There are also fixed W91 and W87 81-mm. mortars that fire to 8 km. and 5.6 km., respectively. The PLA has largely copied Russia’s Vasiliyek 81-mm. automatic mortar, called the W99 or SM-4, which comes in a towed version or mounted in a Hummer-like vehicle. It fires four rounds in 2 sec. out to 6.2 km. The W86 120-mm. towed mortar weighs 206 kg. and fires 20 rounds/min. to 4.7 km.

In 2001, the PLA revealed the PLL-05 mobile mortar, based on the Russian 120-mm. 2S23 NONA-SVK that it purchased in the 1990s, but mounted on a WZ-551 6 X 6 armored personnel carrier (APC). It fires a rocket-assisted round 13.5 km. In 2007, the PLA revealed a laser-guided 120-mm. mortar round, though it is not clear if it is in service.

Towed and self-propelled tubed systems dominate artillery units. The largest number of towed guns are likely the 122-mm. versions. These include the Type-96, based on the Russian D-30, with a 360-deg. traversing base, and the simpler Type-83. Their rocket-assisted rounds have a 27-km. range. The Type‑59 130-mm. towed gun fires a rocket-assisted round 44 km. Of heavy towed artillery, the 152-mm. Type-66, a copy of the Russian D-20, is most numerous and fires rocket-assisted rounds 28 km. In 1999, the PLA revealed the 155‑mm. PLL01/WA 021 towed artillery system, based on the Austrian Noricum GH N-45, which fires a rocket-assisted round 50 km. The PLL01 and the Type‑66 fire 155- and 152-mm. versions of the Russian Krasnopol laser-guided shell.

Self-propelled tubed artillery includes the PLL02, which places the Type-86 100‑mm. gun on a WZ-551 APC. In 2009, the PLA revealed the new Type-07 122-mm. tracked artillery system, which features hull and electronic improvements over the previous Type-89 tracked 122-mm. system. In 2009, photographs appeared on the Internet of the SH-3, a truck-mounted 122-mm. artillery system with digital control systems in a hatch over the cab.

Heavy self-propelled systems include the 155-mm. PLZ-05, which has a version of the PLL01 gun, and appeared in 2005. It is replacing the 152-mm. Type‑83, which entered service in 1983. The PLZ-05 also fires the Krasnopol laser-guided projectile and a rocket-assisted round 50 km., and is capable of flat-trajectory antitank fire. Unconfirmed reports state the PLZ-05 has an automatic gun-loading system and weighs 35 tons.

PLA investments in rocket artillery are impressive. A five-wheel all-terrain vehicle has been modified to carry a 107‑mm. MRL for experimental mechanized special forces units. The tracked Type-89 and more recent Type-90 truck-mounted 122-mm. MRL feature self-contained 40-round rocket reloaders. In addition, the Smerch-derived 12-round PHL-03, which reportedly fires a 150-km.-range missile, is entering increasing numbers of artillery units. The latest AR1A export variant features a modular U.S. MLR system-style 5-round rocket carrier, which speeds reloading. In 2009, Norinco revealed an as yet unidentified truck carrier for this 5-round rocket box, similar to Lockheed Martin’s High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System.

The PLA is also investing in larger MRL systems. The 400-mm. WS-2D reportedly has a range of 400 km., and one payload features three “killer unmanned aerial vehicles,” according to a Chinese report. An earlier 200-km.-range version, the WS-3, uses navigation satellite guidance to achieve a remarkable 50-meter (164-ft.) circular error probable. The WS family complements the 150-km.-range P-12 and 250-km. B-611M maneuverable navsat-guided short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs), which could supplement or replace the PLA’s two brigades of 300‑600-km. DF-11A SRBMs.

New artillery systems are entering amphibious and airborne units for possible missions abroad. PLA marine and army amphibious units are receiving the Type‑07B tracked 122-mm. amphibious artillery system, which places the gun from the Type-07 on a larger hull. Airborne units are equipped with a version of the Type-96 122-mm. gun, but a new tracked airmobile APC may feature a mortar or gun system. The ZBD-09 122‑mm. gun system could eventually feature in airmobile army units. Future artillery systems may feature electromagnetic launch, an area of extensive research. The PLA is also interested in ramjet-powered and stealth-coated artillery shells.

Fisher is a senior fellow with the International Assessment and Strategy Center of Alexandria, Va.

Photo: Chinese Internet

[Exsandgroper]

From ADM


Questions over Land 17's future
08 Oct 2010


As Prime Minister Gillard questions the value of Abrams tanks in Afghanistan recently, others are wondering what is happening with the selection of self-propelled 155mm artillery under Land 17 and their potential for fire support to the ADF in the MEAO.

Rather than announcing a preferred bidder after what would seem to be a fairly exhaustive and longwinded evaluation phase since tenders closed in April 2008, Defence has arranged a further offer definition and refinement process (ODRP).

While Raytheon offering the AS-9 complied, KMW in consultation with BAE Systems declined to participate in the process, disagreeing with the terms and conditions of the ODRP.

Nevertheless their tender was not withdrawn and as far as KMW was concerned it stood.

Now there are dark rumours that the SPH requirement will not be considered in the latter half of 2010 – when tender validity in both cases will have run out – and that the requirement will be shelved until 2012 when it will again come up for consideration.

By then the Government may well have second thoughts about the need for heavily armoured, tracked, self-propelled heavy artillery, and how relevant such systems might be in the context of contemporary warfighting experience and future hostilities.

In which case it might invoke the balance of the M777A2 lightweight towed gun systems approved by Congress in mid-2008 for sale to Australia and thus satisfy the ADF’s requirement for 155mm gun systems, able to fire the most advanced ammunition types, and fully networked with the AFATDS command and control system.

Now we must not have these armoured thing-me-gigs we might frighten someone :puke

Cheers

[JimWH]

I wasn't imagining it then, the SPH part of Land 17 is running a bit late.

[Gubler, A.]

There is no point in buying SP155s (K-9 or PzH2000) if they won't work with our BMS-F (AFATDS). This has nothing to do with politics and everything to do with offer definition. KMW have always been very lack lusture about LAND 17. Happy to sell SP155s off the rack but dammed if they to do anything to facilitate or customise them.

[JimWH]

So that's the hold-up Abe? If KMW are being difficult about it, then surely that pretty much makes the decision for DMO then?

[Mercator]

This has nothing to do with politics...

:bs

[Gubler, A.]

So that's the hold-up Abe? If KMW are being difficult about it, then surely that pretty much makes the decision for DMO then?

KMW are history. Unless there is some change to LAND 17 there will be no PzH 2000 in Australian service ever.

But we can't just order the AS-9 because it does NOT meet the requirement. Raytheon and Samsung are working away to prove it can be integrated into AFATDS. Until they do this to the DMO's satisfaction there will be no 18 gun buy contract.

Now Mercator and others may want us to believe that the political level gives a rat’s arse about offer definition and risk avoidance strategies or as a complex way of implementing some bleeding heart, tree hugger agenda but in the real world this is Defence doing everything it can to avoid another Seasprite. Fortunately they have two highly motivated contractors (Raytheon and Samsung) who are willing to work away on this for their own reasons. Something KMW is just not interested in.

[JimWH]

At the end of the day, the cause of the delay is neither here nor there, what matters is that they are delayed.
Though I must say, everything I've heard about Raytheon and Samsung WRT to Land 17 has been positive. And if they're taking a while to get the AS-9 to the standard that DMO is demanding then that's fair enough. Still a pitty that there'll only be 18 of 'em, though the new structure for 8/12 does look very punchy.

[Gubler, A.]

At the end of the day, the cause of the delay is neither here nor there, what matters is that they are delayed.

There are two types of delay: voluntary and compulsory. If you are driving to the bush and you decide to pull over for a cuppa and scone on a way that is voluntary. If you come across a washed out bridge then that is compulsory.

In this case the delay is compulsory. The LAND 17 spec was not for an OTS SP 155 so it needs to be developed. There is no intent to cause delay other than to deliver the capability army wants.

18 AS-9s will allow with the new four gun troop one per brigade. Four of these babies will be a huge increase in artillery fire power to each brigade.

[JimWH]

Yeah, that's a fair enough point.
I'd absolutley agree that a 4 gun AS-9 troop is a huge step up from the 6 gun M198 batteries used at the moment (I think the metric I've read previously [possibly written by you] is that for practicle purposes, a pair of AS-9 gives the same effect on target as 6 M-198 at longer ranges). And the structure of 8/12 means that the RRAA will have the ability to sustain a troop of AS-9 in theatre basically indefinitly (i.e. a "1 in 3" rotation). Mycomment was more that I'd love to have seen more out of a boyish desire to see the RRAA with the ability to level small cities, and the RRAA could pobably find the manpower for it too if push came to shove.
Though if the funding is there for 'extra' capabilities, then I'd still be keener to explore a PAM or MRL capability in terms of rounding out the fires 'golf-bag'.

[Gubler, A.]

I would put an armoured forward observer vehicle with a call for fire on the move capability (ie stabilised turret) as the next thing RRAA needs. Under the LAND 400 program construct additional SP155 can be acquired if more fires troops need to be placed under armour. The K10 (AS10?) under armour ammo resupply vehicle would be nice too.

[JimWH]

Basically, it's an exciting time to be in the 5-mile-sniper club?

[Gubler, A.]

5 miles? Try 30...

[JimWH]

5 miles? Try 30...

I was taught the phrase by a WWII veteran.

[Riđđu]

Basically, it's an exciting time to be in the 5-mile-sniper club?

Yes, to hit a barrel 5 miles away with a single shell is all very nice. We in the West think it is cool. Maybe it is. However, in places like Russia and China they have a different philosophy.

[Exsandgroper]

Push is on to bring out the big guns
Kym Bergmann From: The Australian October 23, 2010 12:00AM

SPECIAL REPORT

Australia is one of the very few modern nations without self-propelled systems
AGAINST a background of what constitutes sufficient firepower support for Australian troops in Afghanistan, the overarching project to modernise artillery is making some progress.

Known as Land 17, this activity is intended to replace the army's old towed 155mm and 105mm guns with more up-to-date weapons, including the introduction of self-propelled howitzers (SPH) into the inventory. As things look today, Australia is one of the very few modern nations not to field self-propelled systems with their advantages of armoured protection for the crew, high rate of automated fire and great manoeuvrability due to the use of tracks.

Essentially they are a lighter version of a tank -- with a larger gun designed for indirect fire.

The head of the Defence Department's Capability Systems group, Air Vice Marshal Jack Plenty, explains that the evaluation of the SPH option is continuing and that a recommendation will go to the government next year -- a few months later than scheduled.

The process has been drawn out because the Defence Materiel Organisation decided that after tenders had closed, additional information had to be sought through a process known as an Offer Definition & Refinement Phase, which finished in March this year.

The Air Vice Marshal also pointed out that the army has started to receive deliveries of the lightweight M777 towed howitzers, with a total of 35 on order from the US at a cost of about $500 million. Australia is also to make use of artillery ammunition that replaces traditional fuses with miniature GPS receivers, greatly contributing to accuracy.

In addition to the guns and the ammunition, the army is also moving to the introduction of digital fire control technology to use with support assets including those of coalition forces -- and some elements of hardware such as laser rangefinders are being deployed to Afghanistan this month.

This will enable Australians to accurately and quickly call in firepower support -- whether it is from aircraft, helicopters, ground-based systems or a combination thereof.

What the department will not discuss is why artillery has not yet been deployed to Afghanistan. A number of commentators -- many of them ex-military -- have questioned the inability or unwillingness of the government and the ADF to send additional support in the form of 155mm artillery to Tarin Kowt. The situation is even stranger because Australian artillery personnel are operating British guns in Helmand province and also training members of the Afghan National Army in the use of their ex-Soviet 122mm D30s.

Part of the answer is the fundamental definition of what constitutes our mission in Afghanistan and this government -- as well as its predecessor -- uses a very precise form of words: namely that our troops are there to train the 4th brigade of the Afghan National Army. This is a very narrow mission and is unrelated to the broader security of the province or indeed the country. If politicians ask the question whether the military has enough equipment to perform the training task, then the only answer possible is "yes". If a different question were asked such as: what additional resources are required to make Oruzgan Province secure, then the answer would in all probability be quite different.

Another part of the equation is that Australia has only just started to receive its new towed 155mm guns and some time will be required before they are phased into active service. Produced by BAE Systems, these guns make use of lightweight titanium in their construction -- making them attractive because they can be carried underneath a CH-47 Chinook helicopter and so are more readily deployable than earlier much heavier pieces which need to be towed into position. The same type of gun is already deployed to Afghanistan with US and Canadian forces.

The situation regarding the self-propelled howitzers is complex because it remains unclear whether one or two solutions are under consideration.

The original two tenders where the German group Krauss-Maffei Wegmann with the PzH2000, and an alliance between Samsung Techwin of South Korea and the Australian subsidiary of US defence giant Raytheon, who are offering a version the K-9 SPH. Both bids were assessed as being high risk and both companies were asked to enter into the aforementioned Offer Definition & Refinement Phase.

However, only one bidder, Samsung Techwin /Raytheon, decided to participate, with KMW declining to do so.

The decision by KMW did not invalidate its original tender response and so its offer remains "live" -- though presumably in the high-risk category.

There have been persistent rumours that while the army would like the advanced capability represented by SPH technology it has a preference for the PzH2000 system -- in other words not the product that has most probably won the evaluation process.

The reasons for this are opaque, but probably because the system has been deployed to Afghanistan -- with Germany recently sending three additional units -- and the Dutch basing one of theirs at Tarin Kowt. On the other hand, the South Korean SPH is in mass production, is lower risk, faster and arguably better protected.

Once the Land 17 process is complete, the army will have taken a quantum leap forward in its ability to provide firepower support, especially with the introduction of SPH systems.

Given that we are now in an era of hybrid warfare, all modern armies must be able to deploy sufficient force to defeat a very large number of threats.

These range from attacks by individual insurgents through to pitched battles where the enemy might have numerical superiority.

Cheers

[buglerbilly]

Excalibur Use Rises In Afghanistan

By Colin Clark Wednesday, October 27th, 2010 6:21 pm



Since the GPS-guided Excalibur artillery round first made it to Iraq and Afghanistan, roughly 200 rounds have been fired. In the last week or so, use of that round has pulsed. Army artillerymen have fired 20 rounds or 10 percent of the total in Afghanistan, according to James Riley, Raytheon Missile System’s vice president for land systems. We don’t have similar numbers for the Marines, who have been using the shell as well.

Excalibur has been at the center of debate in the Army as the service grapples with the tradeoffs of cost, capability and logistics. Army Vice Chief of Staff Chiarelli has singled out Excalibur as an example of a weapon that would be nice to have lots of if only it didn’t cost so much compared to alternatives such as PGK (Precision Guidance Kit), a GPS setup that can be put on a $600 shell.

There are significant differences in accuracy between Excalibur and the PGK. Excalibur’s circular error of probability (CEP) is 2.86 meters at 40 kilometers, Riley said. PGK’s CEP requirement is better than 50 meters at that range, according to a briefing on the system.........................

Read more: http://www.dodbuzz.com/2010/10/27/excalibur-use-rises-in-afghanistan/#ixzz13ffS12iP

Read more: http://www.dodbuzz.com/2010/10/27/excalibur-use-rises-in-afghanistan/#ixzz13ff4qaTB

[buglerbilly]

BAE Systems Reaches Milestone with Modernized Howitzer Vehicles

(Source: BAE Systems; issued October 28, 2010)



YORK, Pa. --- BAE Systems has delivered seven Paladin Integrated Management (PIM) prototype vehicles to the U.S. Army on schedule. PIM is the latest howitzer in the M109 Paladin family of vehicles.

BAE Systems was awarded a $63.9 million research and development contract in August 2009 to produce five Self Propelled Howitzers and two Carrier, Ammunition, Tracked vehicles. The first prototype vehicle was unveiled earlier this year in January.

“This landmark is really a testament of the great team we have assembled to work on this combat proven system,” said Joe McCarthy, vice president and general manager of the Heavy Brigade Combat Team (HBCT) systems for BAE Systems. “With every job we strive to meet and exceed our customers’ requirements and expectations and thanks to the hard work and commitment of our employees we were able to meet that goal and even exceed it by producing some of the vehicles ahead of schedule.”

The initial PIM vehicles are conducting contractor testing in Yuma, Arizona and Aberdeen, Maryland before they are delivered to the customer beginning in January 2011.

The PIM uses the existing main armament and cab structure of a Paladin M109A6 and replaces the out-of-date chassis components with up-to-date components from Bradley Combat Systems. PIM incorporates a state-of the-art "digital backbone" and power generation capability and integrates electric elevation and traverse drives, electric rammer and digital fire control system. The upgrade of the PIM ensures commonality with existing systems in the Heavy Brigade Combat Team (HBCT), and reduces its logistical footprint and operational sustainability costs by replacing obsolete components within the mobility chassis.

The Paladin Integrated Management vehicle is the first production vehicle equipped with the company's enhanced on-board power management capability, representing the first implementation of the U.S. Army's On Board Power Management requirement. BAE Systems’ enhanced on-board power management solution will double the electrical power of most military vehicles, exponentially increasing the mission effectiveness of ground forces in theatre.

BAE Systems is a global defense, security and aerospace company with approximately 107,000 employees worldwide. The Company delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. In 2009 BAE Systems reported sales of £22.4 billion (US$ 36.2 billion).

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

BAE Systems receives $16m contract for Additional HIMARS vehicles

November 15, 2010

BAE Systems today announced it will manufacture an additional 44 vehicles for the US Army that incorporate technologies to increase protection for soldiers from artillery attack under a $16.3 million contract award from the US Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM). BAE Systems will produce appliqué kits and provide program support for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) under the contract that follows a June 2010 award of $24 million for 63 HIMARS vehicles and appliqué kits. The vehicles will be equipped with BAE Systems' Increased Crew Protection (ICP) cab, derived from a BAE Systems' patented design, which provides reliable protection for crews.

"With our specialized ability to support the growing HIMARS fleet with greater mobility and survivability, BAE Systems continues to demonstrate a commitment to consistently provide our warfighters with enhanced protection on the most reliable medium tactical vehicles at the best value," said Chris Chambers, line lead for BAE Systems.

The vehicles with ICP cabs will be produced in Sealy, Texas and delivered to the Army by December 2011.

A unique design by BAE Systems, the HIMARS ICP armored cab incorporates more than 40 enhancements from previous cab designs. The ICP is designed to provide increased crew protection from ballistic attacks, mine blasts, foreign object debris and toxic fumes associated with rocket launches. The cabs feature improved crew survivability, hatch and door ergonomics, cab entry and exit, pressurization and water entry sealing. Composite materials will be used to meet mission success requirements.

BAE Systems' Sealy facility is a world-class designer, volume manufacturer and through-life supporter of high-quality, best value military tactical vehicles.

Source: BAE Systems

[buglerbilly]

Lockheed Martin Successfully Tests First GMLRS+ Rocket

(Source: Lockheed Martin; issued December 13, 2010)

DALLAS, TX --- Lockheed Martin successfully launched a Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System Plus (GMLRS+) rocket recently in a test at White Sands Missile Range, NM.

The GMLRS+ rocket, which is equipped with a Semi-Active Laser (SAL) seeker, was fired from the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher. The rocket flew approximately 40 kilometers downrange, acquired the laser designated target and diverted over 150 meters to the target.

The GMLRS+ rocket is a Lockheed Martin internal research and development program to incrementally improve the combat-proven GMLRS Unitary program. GMLRS+ is anticipated to address operational needs including increased range, scalable effects and fleeting targets.

“We have a very high degree of confidence in the GMLRS program, based upon the tremendous track record of this combat-proven system,” said Scott Arnold, vice president of Precision Fires at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “As this GMLRS+ flight test demonstrated, we are adding new capabilities to the combat-proven GMLRS, giving the warfighter another highly reliable and accurate precision engagement weapon.”

Primary objectives for this GMLRS+ flight test were to demonstrate target acquisition and the ability to divert the missile to a laser-designated target; obtain technical data to support verification of the performance of the GMLRS+ rocket; and to validate seeker, rocket and launcher system software. Preliminary data indicate all test objectives were achieved. Additional launches of the improved GMLRS+ rocket are scheduled for 2011.

The current GMLRS Unitary rocket is successfully meeting the needs of the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps and British Army artillery units in theater. To date, more than 1,900 GMLRS rounds have been fired in support of troops in ongoing military operations.

GMLRS is the world’s premier long-range precision artillery rocket designed specifically for destroying high-priority targets at ranges up to 70 kilometers. Successfully employed in both urban and non-urban environments, it is able to operate in all climate and light conditions while remaining beyond the range of most conventional weapons. Each GMLRS missile is packaged in a MLRS launch pod and is fired from the MLRS Family of Launchers.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 133,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation’s 2009 sales from continuing operations were $44.0 billion.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Contract Signature on a European Solution for the Next Generation of Precision Guided Ammunition

(Source: European Defence Agency; issued December 16, 2010)

The European Defence Agency (EDA) and BAE Systems Bofors AB, representing a significant part of the defence ammunition industry in Europe, signed a contract launching strategic work on the development of a Roadmap and Implementation Plan for a European solution on Precision Guided Ammunition, to meet CSDP capability requirements.

Precision and Guidance on ammunition is an identified area of strategic importance both from the military capabilities perspective but also from the technological and industrial perspective. Non-EU dependency of Precision and Guidance on ammunition is regarded also as an area of high priority.

The contract, valued at EUR 350 k, aims to provide an achievable step-by-step plan to develop a more robust, sustainable and competitive European defence ammunition industry, able to provide the military capabilities Member States require. It includes work to:

-- identify the capabilities requirements on Precision Engagement focusing on Precision Guided Ammunition;
-- map the current Global and European technological and industrial situation assessing Europe’s strengths and weaknesses;
-- identify existing gaps;
-- provide a roadmap and implementation plan identifying priority measures to be taken with special focus on key technologies and key industrial capabilities to be preserved or developed;
-- identify pilot cooperative programs and prioritised areas for investment.

Elements like harmonised capabilities requirements, achieving strong stakeholder’s consensus, improvement of the European collaboration including all levels of industries but also procurement gaps and improvement of pMS military expenditure within the current financial environment are among the key success factors of this study.

This is another important step in fulfilling the Agency’s task, given by Defence Ministers, of identifying those key industrial capabilities to be preserved or developed in Europe.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

G6 Renoster: Twisting in the Wind

(Source: Forecast International; issued January 3, 2010)

NEWTOWN, Conn. --- The G6 Renoster has seen no new sales since Denel completed the export order for Oman in 1999. Production for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is complete; modernization and retrofit of the 43 systems in SANDF service are ongoing.

Despite ongoing development (including the T6 turret and associated 155mm ammunition) and an aggressive international marketing campaign, Denel is facing a lack of sales prospects for the G6 Renoster. In addition to an increasingly wide array of comparable offerings on the international market, Denel's legal problems with India's Ministry of Defence have all but killed what the South African contractor considered its best chance for new export sales of the G6 Renoster.

In December 2005, Indian Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee revealed that India's Ministry of Defence had issued a Request for Information (RFI) regarding all wheeled 155mm/52-caliber self-propelled artillery systems currently available on the international market. Indian artillery officials complained that Denel (as sole-source contractor) had elevated the unit price of each G6 Renoster to about $5.5 million, about $1.78 million above the weapon system's usual unit price.

Further complicating matters were Indian allegations of corruption on the part of Denel. In May 2005, the Indian defense minister suspended all negotiations and business with Denel, pending an investigation by the Indian Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The suspension order and investigation left Denel's participation in the Indian Army's 155mm self-propelled howitzer program twisting in the wind.

Without an Indian procurement contract, the next best sales prospect would have been Saudi Arabia. However, it is unlikely that Saudi Arabia will actually procure the G6.

In July 2006, (then) Giat Industries secured an export contract of undisclosed value for production of 76 CAESAR artillery systems. While the contractor did not publicly identify what country had placed the order, open-source reporting indicates the Saudi Arabian National Guard is the customer, having placed an order for 80 CAESAR systems. With SANG procurement of the CAESAR, prospects for G6 Renoster sales to Saudi Arabia have become even more remote.

Denel has no firm commitments for export sales of the G6 or the T6 turret at this time. Without a major export sale, the G6 Renoster production line will likely be limited to the production of components and spares in support of ongoing modernization and retrofit.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Saab receives order for ARTHUR weapon-locating system



20:39 GMT, January 3, 2011 Defence and security company Saab has received an order for ARTHUR weapon locating system. The order amount is SEK 200 million [$29.86 million; €22.35 million - Ed.].

“We are delighted to have received this important order and it further proves Saab’s position as one of the world’s premier suppliers of solutions for surveillance, threat detection and location, and force protection”, says Micael Johansson, Senior Vice President and Head of Saab’s business area Electronic Defence Systems.

ARTHUR is a stand alone C-band medium-range weapon-locating system that detects and locates enemy fire. It utilises a passive phased-array antenna technology for optimised battlefield performance. The technology provides the perfect balance between mobility, range, accuracy, ECCM (Electronic counter-countermeasures), operational availability and operational cost.

The ARTHUR system is widely used by demanding customers around the world. Examples of customers are Czech Republic, Denmark, Greece, Norway, Spain, Sweden and UK. More than 60 ARTHUR units have been sold and their availability is well proven from thousands of hours’ operation.

The system is developed and manufactured by Saab in Gothenburg, Sweden.

The industry’s nature is such that depending on circumstances concerning the product and customer, further information regarding the order will not be announced.

The order was received on December 31, 2010 and it will subsequently be booked in the fourth quarter of 2010.

[buglerbilly]

EDA, Industry To Develop Precision-Guided Ammo Plan

By Julian Hale

Published: 12 Jan 2011 12:56

BRUSSELS - The European Defence Agency (EDA) and a consortium of nine European defense ammunition companies are leading efforts to develop a European solution for the next generation of precision-guided ammunition.

In December, the agency and the consortium signed a 350,000-euro ($453,225) contract under which the consortium would develop a road map and implementation plan for a European solution on precision-guided ammunition by the end of 2011.

The background to this is the EDA EDTIB Strategy paper to develop a European Defence Technological and Industrial and Base (EDTIB), approved by the defense ministers in May 2007. The EDA described it as "another important step in fulfilling the Agency's task, given by Defence Ministers, of identifying those key industrial capabilities to be preserved or developed in Europe."

Ammunition is one of the pilot areas selected by the EU member states. Consortium members are BAE Systems Bofors, Diehl BGT Defence, EXPAL, MBDA, Nexter Munitions, OTO Melara, Rheinmetall Waffe Munition, SAGEM and Thales TDA..................EDITED....................

The focus of the study will be indirect fire (ranging from mortars to artillery from 81mm to 155mm). Proposals may include that member states jointly develop specific technologies, such as sensors, by pooling funding.

"These may be useful for other areas of ammunition such as tactical level missile technologies," said an EDA official.

Read more: http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=5439560&c=EUR&s=LAN

[buglerbilly]

Saab receives order for weapon-locating system from South Korea

12:38 GMT, January 31, 2011 Defence and security company Saab has received an order for weapon locating system ARTHUR from LIG Nex1 which is the prime contractor towards Defence Acquisition Program Administration, Republic of Korea. The order is worth SEK 450 million [$69.4 million; €50.7 million - Ed.].

“We are delighted to have received this important additional order from South Korea that further proves our customer’s confidence in the capabilities of our weapon locating system ARTHUR, says Micael Johansson, Senior Vice President and Head of Saab’s business area Electronic Defence Systems.

ARTHUR is a stand alone C-band medium-range weapon-locating system that detects and locates enemy fire. It utilises a passive phased-array antenna technology for optimised battlefield performance. The technology provides the perfect balance between mobility, range, accuracy, ECCM (Electronic counter-countermeasures), operational availability and operational cost.

The ARTHUR system is widely used by demanding customers around the world. Examples of customers are Czech Republic, Denmark, Greece, Norway, Spain, Sweden and UK. More than 60 ARTHUR units have been sold and their availability is well proven from thousands of hours’ operation. The first ARTHUR order from South Korea came in 2007.

The system is developed by Saab in Gothenburg, Sweden. The main part of the production for this program will be done at LIG Nex1 under a localisation agreement between Saab and LIG.

LIG Nex1 Co. Ltd. develops and produces a wide range of advanced precision electronic systems including missile, underwater weapon systems, radars, electronic warfare, avionics, tactical communication systems, fire control systems, naval combat systems, and electro-optics. The company was founded in 1976 and is based in Seoul, South Korea.

[buglerbilly]

Gun Team Exhibits M777 Howitzer Capabilities

(Source: US Marine Corps; dated Feb. 2, web-posted Feb. 8, 2011)

HIJUDAI TRAINING AREA, Japan --- The Marines of Gun Team 2, Bravo Battery, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, exhibited the capabilities of the M777 howitzer to more than 50 Japan Ground Self-Defense Force service members here Feb. 3.

The purpose of the informal demonstration was to familiarize service members with the gun’s mechanics, characteristics, maintenance, firing protocol and new digital fire control system on the weapon, said Sgt. Dustin Zimmerman, section chief, Gun Team 2, Bravo Battery.

“We want to make sure they understand everything this weapon can do, especially since the technology has changed,” Zimmerman said. “It’s just a matter of keeping our allies up-to-date on what we’re firing and our capabilities.”

Zimmerman and his team, consisting of a gunner, assistant gunner, recorder and the cannoneers, executed the entire procedure to fire, pausing to explain each step in detail with the assistance of a translator.

Japanese service members were encouraged to take photos and ask questions to ensure they understood each step.

Lance Cpl. Al Ackenheil, recorder for Gun Team 2, said the day presented a great opportunity to interact with the JGSDF and explain what the artillery Marines do on a day-to-day basis.

“I enjoyed helping show what our team does and the capabilities of the howitzer,” Ackenheil, a Pittsburgh, Pa. native. “I hope those who attended today walked away with a better understanding of the equipment we work with and how our team operates.”

Approximately 160 Marines from 3rd Bn., 12th Marines are scheduled to conduct artillery training here, as part of the Artillery Relocation Training Program.

The purpose of the regularly scheduled training is to ensure that the Marines are able to sustain their operational proficiency in order to respond effectively to any conflict in the Asia-Pacific region where artillery units would be needed.

Live fire days for training are scheduled for Feb. 1-19.

-ends-

[geof]

... What happend to our 777's .. didn't US congress approve sale to us of 60 or so of these last year some time .. ??

[buglerbilly]

... What happend to our 777's .. didn't US congress approve sale to us of 60 or so of these last year some time .. ??

You fall asleep on us bud??

The first few are at Puckapunyal Army Base.............shot end Sept 2010.






The Minister is pictured with soldiers from the School of Artillery in front of the new M-177 Gun.
Soldiers L to R: Pte Sasha Vaz, Gunner Joseph Quaranta, Pte Jarrod Soderman, CFN Nick Brooks, SGT Mark wheeler, Pte Nicholas Hayes and kneeling Pte Matthew Marquis.

[geof]

You fall asleep on us bud??

The first few are at Puckapunyal Army Base.............shot end Sept 2010.

.... Oh .. ha ha .. I must have ... thanks ..

[McDethWivFries]

anything happening on the sp arty upgrades Army were looking at or has that been dropped now?

[buglerbilly]

Still, slowly, crawling along............this schedule is taken from the December Update to the Defence Capability Plan........

Planned Schedule

First Pass Approval Complete
Market Solicitation Complete
Year-of-Decision FY 2010-11 to FY 2012-13
Initial Materiel Release FY 2015-16 to FY 2016-17
Initial Operational Capability FY 2015-16 to FY 2016-17

[McDethWivFries]

cheers gain bug.

[buglerbilly]

1001-Gun U.S. Salute for BAE Systems’ M777 Howitzer

(Source: BAE Systems; issued February 22, 2011)

HATTIESBURG, Miss. --- An order for 46 M777 howitzers from the U.S. Department of Defense takes the total number of guns ordered to 1001. The order comes as BAE Systems continues deliveries of M777 to Canada and Australia, in addition to the U.S.

Weighing in at less than 4,200kg, the revolutionary M777 is the world’s first artillery weapon to make widespread use of titanium and aluminium alloys, resulting in a howitzer which is half the weight of conventional 155mm systems. As a result, it can be deployed by medium-lift helicopters quickly and beyond the reach of roadside bombs to otherwise inaccessible areas, extending its reach over the theater of operations.

Mike Smith, managing director of BAE Systems’ Global Combat Systems Weapons business commented: “M777’s capability is proven in combat daily – being sling-loaded under helicopters and air-dropped in some of the most demanding operational conditions on the planet. These additional orders serve to reinforce the confidence that our customers have in the system and its support.”

“M777 has passed every development and operational test in vital areas such as accuracy, consistency, operational flexibility and mobility. There is no other modern howitzer which has been subjected to such rigorous examination, or been engaged in such unrelenting operational usage and regular deployment by airborne assets,” added Smith.

The success of M777 on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan is reflected in a global interest in the howitzer. BAE Systems is responding to a range of enquiries from countries wanting effective lightweight artillery support for rapid reaction and expeditionary forces.

BAE Systems’ facility at Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is responsible for final integration and test of the weapon system. The prime contract management of the M777 program and manufacture and assembly of the complex titanium structures and associated recoil components are undertaken at Barrow-in-Furness in the United Kingdom.

The M777 effort is managed by the U.S. Army/Marines Light Weight 155mm Joint Program Office at Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey.

BAE Systems’ Land & Armaments sector is the largest military land systems manufacturer in the world. It provides design, development, production, through-life support and upgrade of armored combat vehicles, tactical wheeled vehicles, naval guns, missile launchers, artillery systems, munitions as well as military and law enforcement products.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Excalibur: Turning 'artillery cannon into a sniper rifle'

17:27 GMT, March 4, 2011



PICATINNY ARESENAL, N.J. | A lot can happen during the course of a phone call. On Jan. 14, 2005, Tom Coradeschi placed a phone call to Robert Pinto, triggering a conversation that would give impetus to a revolutionary advancement in artillery.

Coradeschi had never met nor spoken with Pinto. But Coradeschi's boss, then Lt. Col. William Cole, had worked with Pinto before and suggested that Coradeschi call him. Caradeschi is the Systems Engineering Lead for the Excalibur precision-artillery program with the Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center, known as ARDEC.

"We had worked with him on a concept demonstrator fire control system when he was Major Cole, the Project Officer for the Digitized M119A1 Howitzer," said Pinto, an engineer in the Fire Control Systems and Technology Directorate at ARDEC, at Picatinny Arsenal. "He was familiar with the fact that we could rapidly turn things around."

Cole and Coradeschi were with the Excalibur project office that was working to deliver a revolutionary advancement intended to bring precision to cannon artillery.

Having the precision fires capability embedded with artillery units, which are usually close to units engaging the enemy, would significantly boost precise strike capability.

Cannon artillery at the time was too blunt an instrument. Cannons achieve relative accuracy based on calculations derived from data such as the howitzer's location, wind speed and direction, target location and other factors.

Once the round is fired, slight differences between the calculated data and the actual conditions over the long course of travel in a typical 155mm round may result in dispersions of tens or even hundreds of meters.

Commanders needed more precision to avoid casualties among civilians who might be in the vicinity, or to reduce risk to friendly forces in a close fight.

Using Global Positioning System technology to provide guidance and auto-deploying, free-spinning base fins and canards to make a round operate more like an aircraft, Excalibur Block IA would sail farther and correct to a position almost directly over a target, then drop to within ten meters.

Excalibur has been loosely described as a "smarter" artillery round, or in the words of one U.S. Soldier, "It turns an artillery cannon into a sniper rifle."

When Coradeschi called Pinto in January of 2005, the timeline to deliver the Excalibur round to U.S. forces was too slow for overseas commanders.

Their objective was to examine the feasibility and, possibly, a path to deliver Excalibur ahead of its programmed schedule to meet the commanders' urgent needs.

Coalition forces wanted a precision fires capability soon, and they initiated what would become a mid-course correction to the Excalibur program's trajectory by submitting an urgent need statement to the Department of the Army that preceded Coradeschi's call to Pinto.

At the time, Excalibur technology was approaching maturity. In May of 2005, the Government Accountability Office reported that of each of Excalibur's critical technologies were mature, and the project had nearly completed the required numbers of drawings.

The Excalibur program began development in 1997, and by 2002 had established a developmental and funding strategy to deliver "initial operating capability" in September of 2008, according to a Government Accountability Office report.

Among the obstacles to operational use: integrating the Excalibur into existing Army systems, field tests and training the Soldier-operators.

MAKING ROUNDS SMARTER

Integrating Excalibur into existing Army systems was a unique challenge. While howitzers and their crews require data in order to fire, the rounds themselves require no data.

With Excalibur, the rounds need data - gun and target locations, launch angles, muzzle velocity, GPS satellite information, etc., and some start-up electrical power.

Data and a small amount of power are transferred into the round via inductive coupling with a device called the Enhanced Portable Inductive Artillery Fuse Setter, referred to as EPIAFS.

The needed data comes from fire orders processed through a portion of the Army' tactical information network called the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System, or AFATDS, which operates across the battlefield to control the transmission of fire missions.

But that process, or "mission thread," had never been used with an Excalibur round. Another significant challenge was integrating Excalibur into the existing U.S. Army cannon artillery systems.

The M109A6 Paladin Self Propelled Howitzer was available, but its fire control system could only process conventional fire missions. The perfect solution would have been to proceed with Paladin's planned upgrade to process data for both regular and the new Excalibur rounds.

But the scheduled upgrade to Paladin wouldn't occur soon enough.

Instead, an 80 percent solution was brainstormed during the phone call between Pinto and Coradeschi. Ultimately, it proved to be an achievable, albeit interim, solution.

"We realized that a fire control system independent of Paladin was needed," Pinto recalled. "We invented PEFCS (Portable Excalibur Fire Control System), fire control in a box."

It would be developed and fielded quickly, then withdrawn from the field as soon as the objective, fully integrated Paladin solution was available.

Under the PEFCS concept, the processing of a fire mission order would be sent by the Fire Direction Center-not to the existing Paladin fire control system-but to the XM152 PEFCS in the Paladin. "AFATDS would see PEFCS as a separate entity from its host howitzer," said Pinto.

Coradeschi and Pinto found their solution by contemplating the use of existing components to achieve required functions.

Unique components would also be required, such as a computer processor-the Platform Integration Kit, which was already under development for EPIAFS-to control the fuse setter and integrate the data.

Additionally, the concept required a power supply and connectivity mechanism.

With a clear path forward that included the "fire control in a box" concept, the Army Resource and Requirements Board approved the acceleration of Excalibur Block IA in March of 2005.

By April, the Army's acquisition executive approved the proposal. Project Manager Excalibur then tasked ARDEC's Fire Control Systems & Technology (FCS&T) Directorate to develop PEFCS according to a small set of timeline, transportability, and compatibility requirements.

The project received its funding in June of 2005 when the Army Program Executive Officer for Ammunition, Brig. Gen. Paul S. Izzo, signed an acquisition decision memorandum (ADM).

GETTING TO WORK

Getting from concept to working system "wasn't as much a technology challenge as it was an integration and packaging challenge," said Victor Galgano, former Acting Director of Fire Control Systems & Technology.

Between the concept design and the first proof-of-concept testing, changes were constant.

Typically, software changes in one item's software results in a "downwind effect" that requires changes to another items' software.

TWO-WAY PROBLEM SOLVING

Patti Alameda, Lead Software Developer and ARDEC Project Officer for PEFCS, said updating the software to run Excalibur mission threads meant working with various other project offices.

"Not only did we work with other program offices, but when we exercised their systems we were able to uncover and correct problems they had not previously discovered," said Alameda.

"This worked both ways. Problems that other teams found were shared and incorporated into our baseline. "

Nine months after the acquisition decision memorandum, in March of 2006, the first Excalibur was set using PEFCS at a test at Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz.

With senior leaders in attendance, Pinto said he perceived an element of surprise that PEFCS really worked

What quickly followed were requests for additional capability.

In parallel with the continued maturation of the Excalibur projectile, the team had the time to add these capabilities.

Since the desired quantity of PEFCS was small and the timeline very tight, rather than pursue a production contract, a "make-or-buy" decision was made that meant 42 PEFCS would ultimately be produced in a fabrication facility in Picatinny Arsenal.

The time involved in writing a contract solicitation, the fact that most of the components in PEFCS were already Army fielded items, combined with the small quantities required, supported the on-site production decision, according to Alameda.

By April of 2007, teams of new equipment trainers were installing the PEFCS on Paladin howitzers in Iraq while simultaneously training troops in how to use the new system.

On April 30th, both the XM182 Excalibur and the XM152 PEFCS were fielded via the Urgent Materiel Release process.

On May 6, 2007 the Army used a PEFCS operated by Soldiers from the 1-82 Field Artillery to set the Excalibur rounds, which unleashed their explosive anger for the very first time.

Conceptually, the only significant change from what Pinto and Coradeschi discussed in the phone call was that, rather than be carried with the Excalibur rounds, a hard aluminum PFECS box was ultimately mounted on a step below the Paladins' emergency hatch, though PEFCS operated wholly independently of the Paladin fire control system as originally conceived.

AWARD WINNER

The PEFCS concept has since gone into production and provided successful Excalibur support for troops in Iraq.

Not only did it receive a patent in 2010, it was named a 2007 Army Greatest Invention. It also won a 2006 Top Five DoD Program Award and an Army Research and Development Award.

Yet more important, it met the needs of troops in the field.

----
Timothy Rider, Picatinny Public Affairs

[buglerbilly]

One I missed while my puter was down.................looks like a 39calibre barrel on it? Via Army Recognition..................

Monday, March 07, 2011, 11:02 AM

Iran Iranian defense industries unveils a new wheeled self-propelled howitzer 155 mm.

TEHRAN - The Iranian defense industries on Sunday March 06, 2011, unveiled the country's first home-made self-propelled howitzer 155mm artillery. The new artillery was put on display in a ceremony in the Defense Industries Organization attended by the Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi.



Speaking to reporters during the ceremony, Vahidi said that the production of the new artillery was aimed at increasing the mobility of the Iranian armed forces' artillery units. He added that the ordnance has been developed by Iranian experts at the defense industries based on the strategy and needs of the Iranian Armed Forces.

According to the minister, Iran is the seventh world country which has acquired the technical know-how for producing this type of artillery. The minister further added that the newly unveiled artillery enjoys a higher speed for reaction, higher mobility, easier repair and maintenance and a lower price than similar types of ordnance produced by Iran earlier.

Tehran launched an arms development program during the 1980-88 Iraqi imposed war on Iran to compensate for a US weapons embargo. Since 1992, Iran has produced its own tanks, armored personnel carriers, missiles and fighter planes.

Yet, Iranian officials have always stressed that the country's military and arms programs serve defensive purposes and should not be perceived as a threat to any other country.

[buglerbilly]

KMW delivers first rocket launcher MARS II to German artillery school

April 06, 2011



In the presence of the vice president of the Federal Office for Defence Technology and Procurement, Reinhard Schütte, the artillery school in Idar Oberstein, Germany, received its first MARS II rocket launching system in the Guided Multiple-Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) edition. Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) thereby delivered a fully modernised combat system with an increased combat efficacy just 2¼ years after the signing of the pre-series-contract in December 2008.

"With the rocket launcher MARS II and the guided artillery rocket GMLRS UNITARY we now have an efficient means with the necessary precision and outstanding range, which finally allows us to complete the tasks assigned to us under almost any condition and that with the desired effect," said Brigadier General Heribert Hupka, commander of the artillery school and General of the artillery troops in Germany.

More than 2.300 implemented new parts, 300 metres of integrated wiring per vehicle for a fully electric drive and a quality inspection covering more than 450 hours per launching system are not only stand for a guaranteed sustainability, but also ensure an unmatched functionality and targeting precision on missions. The rocket launcher MARS II with the guided artillery rocket GMLRS UNITARY thereby offers a device that combines highest precision and maximum range. With the delivery of the first rocket launcher the schooling will commence immediately at the artillery school. After the completion of final tests within the scope of a field test the system is due for compliance testing next month at the White Sands Missile Range in the southern USA.

The rocket launcher MARS is in service with the artillery troop for over 25 years now. Conceptualised and optimised for the combating of large surface area targets under cold war circumstances, it was adapted to the considerably changed requirements of current as well as future threat scenarios and subsequently upgraded. Today, it takes effect on targets faster and more accurately than ever before - and will be an efficient partner in general or functional gunfights in future conflict scenarios within the framework of network-centric warfare.

Source: Krauss-Maffei Wegmann GmbH

[buglerbilly]

Elbit Systems Awarded a Contract to Supply Soltam's Artillery Systems

(Source: Elbit Systems; issued April 6, 2011)



HAIFA, Israel --- Elbit Systems Ltd. announced today that it was awarded a contract to supply self-propelled artillery and accompanying systems to an African country. The contract, valued at approximately $24 million, will be performed over the next two years. This is the first contract announcement regarding Soltam Systems Ltd. ("Soltam") since its recent acquisition by Elbit Systems.

The contract calls for the supply of a complete solution, including Soltam's ATMOS self-propelled artillery, command stations, observation and target acquisition systems, as well as fire control and command and control systems. In addition, Elbit Systems will manage the training and maintenance during the project's duration.

Bezalel Machlis, Elbit Systems' Executive Vice President and General Manager - Land and C4I Division, commented: "This new contract highlights the high synergetic value within our various land activities, allowing us to provide our customers with complete unique solutions, from artillery platforms, to target acquisition systems, through to advanced command and control solutions that connect all of the systems." Machlis added: "Our integrative solution, combining Soltam's artillery systems and our range of advanced electronic capabilities, provides a cutting-edge operational solution suitable for the growing trend of a transition to wheeled mobile platforms for artillery."

Elbit Systems Ltd. is an international defense electronics company engaged in a wide range of programs throughout the world. The Company, which includes Elbit Systems and its subsidiaries, operates in the areas of aerospace, land and naval systems, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance ("C4ISR"), unmanned aircraft systems ("UAS"), advanced electro-optics, electro-optic space systems, EW suites, airborne warning systems, ELINT systems, data links and military communications systems and radios.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

US Army awards Raytheon $173m contract for Excalibur

April 21, 2011

Raytheon Company received a $173 million US Army fiscal year 2010 contract for the production of Excalibur precision-guided projectile rounds for in-theater use. This contract marks the beginning of full rate production for Excalibur Ia-2.

Successfully fielded in 2007, Excalibur is a 155 mm precision-guided artillery round with extended range that is currently in use with the US Army and Marine Corps. Using GPS precision guidance technology, Excalibur provides first round fire-for-effect capability with accuracy well within 10 meters (32.8 feet) of its target. This accuracy protects warfighters in close proximity to the target and provides an unprecedented precision engagement capability.

Excalibur precision-guided projectiles give warfighters life-saving options when close air support is unavailable. With more than 300 rounds fired in theater, the US Army and Marine Corps have increased their use of Excalibur in the past year.

"Warfighters need Excalibur because it provides a level of precision they simply cannot get with other artillery rounds," said Col. Michael Hartig, US Army Fires Center of Excellence. "Excalibur's GPS precision makes it ideal in all terrain types, including urban settings and rugged terrain where our soldiers and Marines are close to the target."

In August 2010, the US Army awarded Raytheon a contract to complete the design of the Excalibur Ib precision-guided projectile. Excalibur Ib provides the lowest- risk approach to reducing the projectile's cost by an estimated 50 percent, while leveraging the demonstrated performance of Excalibur Ia.

"From early fielding of Excalibur Ia-1, it has been our commitment to continually develop this capability so that it provides a greater, more affordable benefit to the warfighter," said Michelle Lohmeier, vice president of Raytheon's Land Combat product line. "As we enter full rate production with Excalibur Ia and qualify our Excalibur Ib, we continue to evolve the design, while staying true to Excalibur's mission to limit collateral damage in theater."

Source: Raytheon

[geof]

First rounds at pucka

[buglerbilly]

Pic link doesn't work mate........

[geof]

Pic link doesn't work mate........

... sorry ... there are some pics on the DOD website of the first rounds being fired from the 777's ... I carn't figure it out ...

[geof]

Pic link doesn't work mate........

... sorry ...

[Gubler, A.]

Defence has new software for their image bank because like the old system was working fine. Anyway this link ought to get you to the M777A2 pics. No Excalibur firing but its pretty special to have the new gun in action.

http://images.defence.gov.au/fotoweb/Grid.fwx?position=1&archiveid=5003&columns=4&rows=2&sorting=ModifiedTimeAsc&search=m777

[buglerbilly]

I'd love to meet the ferkin MUPPET that has decided to instigate this new system................a complete waste of time and resources! Fuckin Clowns!

[ADMk2]

I'd love to meet the ferkin MUPPET that has decided to instigate this new system................a complete waste of time and resources! Fuckin Clowns!

But it was obtained for the bargain basement cost of only $50m...

[buglerbilly]

But it was obtained for the bargain basement cost of only $50m...

Good Grief!

(Even I try to be polite occasionally.............)

[buglerbilly]

Raytheon Wins Army Deal for Excalibur Ia-2 Shells

By JOHN YANTIS, THE ARIZONA REPUBLIC

Published: 25 Apr 2011 15:16

PHOENIX - Tucson-based Raytheon Missile Systems has been awarded a $172.6 million contract to manufacture thousands of artillery shells for the U.S. Army.

The money will allow the company to start full-rate production of the Excalibur Ia-2, a longer-range shell than previous versions of the projectile.

According to the contract, Raytheon will provide the shells by the end of January 2013. Raytheon has been building the projectiles since 2007.

Excalibur is a 155-millimeter precision-guided artillery round that is in use with the Army and U.S. Marine Corps. It uses GPS precision guidance to come within about 30 feet of its target to limit collateral damage, Raytheon said.

Excalibur Ia-2 has a range of nearly 26 miles when fired from U.S. howitzers. The previous version, the Ia-1 has a range of 14 miles.

The projectiles give soldiers lifesaving options when close air support is unavailable, the company said, adding that more than 300 rounds have been fired in battle in the past year.

"War fighters need Excalibur because it provides a level of precision they simply cannot get with other artillery rounds," said Col. Michael Hartig, of the U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence, in a statement.

He said the weapon's GPS precision is ideal for all types of terrain, including urban settings and areas where soldiers and Marines are close to the target.

In August 2010, the Army awarded Raytheon a contract to complete the design of the next generation: Excalibur Ib.

It is expected to leverage current technology but reduce costs by an estimated 50 percent.

Work for the contract will be performed in Tucson, 10 other U.S. cities, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

[buglerbilly]

U.S. Army tests HIMARS for rapid deployment

07:03 GMT, May 13, 2011



WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, N.M. | Dust flew on White Sands Missile Range during a test of an improved missile launch system conducted April 27, 2011, at White Sands Space Harbor, N.M.

Members of the Precision Fires Rocket and Missile System Project Office test fired an upgraded version of the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS. The test focused on new navigation and targeting equipment installed on the HIMARS system intended to enhance the system's ability to rapidly deploy from an aircraft and fire.

To conduct the test, two HIMARS vehicles were loaded onto a C-17 cargo plane, with a third loaded onto a C-130 cargo plane. The planes then flew to White Sands Missile Ranger, or WSMR, and landed at Space Harbor where the HIMARS vehicles were quickly unloaded and their missiles launched.

"What this capability allows is proofing out the concept of allowing a system like the HIMARS to fly on a C-130 or a C-17 and come in and execute a target set and load back up and fly back to home station or a forward operating base," said Lt. Col. Gregory Paul, product manager for Field Artillery Launchers, Precision Fires Rocket and Missile Systems Project Office.

The test was conducted in two parts, the first part being the pair of launchers deploying from the C-17. After firing, the pair of launchers were loaded back onto the C-17 and flown away to clear the area for the C-130 to land and repeat the process with the single launcher it had on board.

The HIMARS is a truck mounted version of the Multiple Launch Rocket System, or MLRS. Able to carry all of the same rocket and missile payloads as the tracked vehicle based MLRS, the HIMARS benefits from additional mobility allowing it to keep up with lighter units than the MLRS

"One of the things the Army learned long ago was tracks go with tracks and wheels go with wheels. The HIMARS on a five ton truck derivative is more aligned with our light forces," Paul said.

The test leveraged the HIMARS' lightweight and high mobility and coupled it with the ubiquitous nature of the C-17 and C-130, two of the Air Force's most common and versatile transport aircraft.

"What it does is, it merges existing capabilities between the Army and the Air force," said Paul.

This test was the capstone event for the project, and represents years of work by both the servicemembers and civilians working on improving the system.

"It's a culmination of many years of work of the product office, the end user community at Fort Sill Oklahoma, and many of our teammates," Paul said.

Since the upgraded navigation and targeting systems are so vital to mission of providing accurate artillery missile and rocket strikes, extensive work had to be done to ensure the systems were up to the challenge.

"We've gone through quite a bit of testing. The genesis of this project was almost five years ago. It's something that's been on the drawing board that we've worked with the precision fires project office for quite some time," said Matthew Berger director of MLRS launchers for Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.

White Sands Missile Range was chosen as the location test for several reasons.

"Space Harbor with the Shuttle runway afforded us that ability to do this joint operation with the C-17 and C-130 that could accommodate us and still have the range (safety) fan so we could fired the guided MLRS unitary rounds," Paul said.

Originally constructed for use as an alternate landing site for the retiring Space Shuttle, WSMR's Space Harbor features a large runway perfect for landing large aircraft on. Located in the heart of the missile range, it was also the perfect location for a test like this one because it provided not only a place for the transport aircraft to land, but also a secure location, military controlled airspace, and direct access to impact areas.

These features came together to provide the project with a perfect location that would allow the complex test to be conducted safely.

"When the customer was considering other installations for their test site, we marketed the White Sands Space Harbor to them as a viable facility for the HIMARS C-17/C-130 Quick Strike Joint Operational Test," said Christi Griego, WMSR's HIMARS test officer.

The end result of the work between WSMR, the Rocket and Missile System Project Office, and the Air force was the completion of a test and the collection of valuable data to be used in evaluation of the system.

"We have a long history with (WSMR). It's safe. It's done professionally, and we get the data we need to ensure that before we put something in the field its effective, suitable, survivable and safe. That it's truly proved out before we put it in Solders hands," Paul said.

The test's complexity and many moving parts, and the ability of the range to cater to those requirements added an additional capability to the range. Test officials now hope that as a result of this test, other activities with similar requirements will be conducted in the future.

"The successful planning, coordination, and conduct of the mission, by the HIMARS (WSMR) Test Office and Project Support, gave WSMR another capability by showing the test community that we can support different kinds of tests, as well as be a landing site for Army and Air Force missions," Griego said.

----
Drew Hamilton, Army Test and Evaluation Command

[buglerbilly]

The Future Artillery System

(Source: Swedish Defence Forces; issued May 16, 2011)

(Issued in Swedish only; unofficial translation by defense-aerospace.com)


The Swedish Army’s A9 artillery regiment has begun training on the new Archer 155mm self-propelled gun. Production deliveries are to begin in December. (Swedish Forces photo)

The Artillery Regiment is now ready to start using the new Archer artillery system, which replaces the old Howitzer 77B. In early December, the first four artillery pieces of a total of 24 pieces planed, were delivered to the A 9 artillery regiment.

To date, all experimental trials and tests have produced satisfactory results. The first production Archer guns will be delivered to the regiment in December 2011.

In early 2012, the regiment will begin to train its first company on the new weapon, and deliveries will continue at a rate of two Archers per month.

“The only thing that can destroy our schedule is if production runs into trouble. But it's not something we worry about, "says Mats Englund, chief of artillery department.

Good could be better

A few weeks ago, Archer was finally tested with all related and support equipment. This was necessary to determine whether further adjustments or modifications are necessary to ensure specifications are met before it finally goes into production.

Mats Englund was the platoon commander when the regiment began using the model H77A towed howitzer in the early 1980s. “Then, we estimated the gun’s coordinates with the help of sensor lines and protocols. With the new system, all this is done at the touch of a button. To leave its firing position, which could take eight minutes for the H77A earlier with a really well-trained crew, Archer will need only 60 seconds," he said.

Modified Howitzer 77B

At the Artillery Regiment barracks, a new Archer hall has been built under ground to accommodate the two companies and their weapons. There are workshops, offices and canteens.

Now, the hall is occupied by four H 77B guns, but in November they will leave and be handed over to the Archer contractor, BAE Systems in Karlskoga.

“Archer is in part a modification of the towed Howitzer 77B, so these guns will be taken apart and will then come back as new Archer self-propelled howitzers incorporating parts from the old pieces," says Englund.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Armenian Military 'Interested' In Acquiring Russian Rocket Artillery

(Source: RFE/RL; published June 9, 2011)



YEREVAN -- A senior Russian defense industry executive says Armenia wants to acquire Russian rocket artillery systems that have a firing range of up to 90 kilometers.

Nikolay Dimidyuk of the state-run Rosoboronexport company was quoted this week by the Moscow-based magazine "Voenno-Promyshlenny Kurier" as saying that Armenian officials showed an interest in the BM-30 Smerch multiple-launch rocket systems during a recent international arms exhibition in Minsk.

Dimidyuk said that Armenian authorities as well as military officials from Kazakhstan held "interesting negotiations" with Rosoboronexport representatives in the Belarusian capital. "These were not mere courtesy visits, we discussed concrete issues," he said.

"We have not cooperated so closely with members states of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) before," Dimidyuk said.

The Armenian Defense Ministry declined to confirm or deny this information. "Armenia's armed forces are constantly supplied with new and modern weaponry," ministry spokesman Davit Karapetian told RFE/RL's Armenian Service. "It is not expedient to divulge details of our arms purchases."

A Defense Ministry source, who asked not to be identified, said in that context that the Armenian army already possesses Smerch systems.

Developed in the early 1980s, Smerch is arguably the most powerful multiple-launch rocket system in the world. It can fire 12 300-milimeter rockets in a single salvo that lasts for less than a minute.

The truck-mounted systems are estimated to cost $12 million each. It is not clear whether Armenia can acquire them at a lower price or even for free thanks to its membership in the CSTO or according to a Russian-Armenian defense agreement signed last August. The agreement commits Moscow to supplying the Armenian military with "special military hardware."

A possible purchase of Smerch rockets would highlight Armenia's intensifying arms race with Azerbaijan, whose armed forces reportedly have at least 12 such systems.

Defense Minister Seyran Ohanian said in February that the Armenian military received "unprecedented" quantities of modern weapons last year and will continue its military build-up in 2011. Ohanian gave no details of those deliveries.

Yerevan officially confirmed in late December that it possesses Russian S-300 surface-to-air missiles, which are widely regarded as one of the most potent antiaircraft weapons.

Earlier in December, Armenian President Serzh Sarkisian and his National Security Council approved a five-year plan to modernize the armed forces. It envisages, among other things, the acquisition of long-range, precision-guided weapons.



-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Three Holes-In-One for Locally-Developed Artillery

(Source: Denel; issued August 4, 2011)



Denel Land Systems has developed an artillery piece that can directly fire three shells through the same hole – at a distance of one kilometre.

The accuracy of this locally developed piece of artillery is equally impressive. This system fire at a range of 30km and deliver 50% of its projectiles within the size of a soccer field.

This remarkable degree of accuracy was achieved when the latest version of DLS’s 105mm Stryker was recently tested at the Alkantpan testing range in the Northern Cape. The Stryker LAV III LSPH (Light Self-propelled Howitzer) differs from previous versions in that it can now be serviced by a crew rather than being remotely fired.

Stephan Burger the CEO of Denel Land Systems (DLS) says the firing tests were witnessed by members of the SA Defence community. The tests underline the world-class characteristics of the gun and the quality of the engineering team responsible for its development, says Burger.

The 105-mm Stryker is a joint project between DLS, General Dynamic Systems and Rheinmetall Denel Munitions – another subsidiary of Denel, South Africa’s largest manufacturer of defence products.

Research and Development work on the system started in the 1990’s when a Denel/Armscor project team was set the task to produce 155mm, 39 calibre Artillery range, accuracy and lethality from a 105mm system. The end product was an artillery piece with the weight of a 105mm howitzer, but the range and terminal performance of a 155mm System -- with better precision.

The latest version tested at Alkantpan has a crew of three - a driver, commander/gunner and loader. Because the system fires off its wheels it can be quickly deployed in action. The system weighs 18,200 kg with 36 rounds on board and is air-transportable with a C130 aircraft.

Burger says the range of the artillery is between 6 and 30 kilometres – depending on the configuration of the projectile and propellant charge.

Its accuracy is exceptional. During the firings error margins of less than 0,3% of range was consistently achieved at maximum range. This kind of performance was made possible through the system engineering approach that was followed in developing the gun, the charges and the projectiles as an integrated system.

Burger says the system has generated significant international interest since it was first unveiled at the African Aerospace and Defence Exhibition in 2000. The turreted version of the 105mm System will also be able to fire off the Patria AMV vehicle, currently the platform for the South African Badger family of Infantry Combat Vehicles.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Picatinny Dials in the Destruction of Artillery Shells

by Christian on August 17, 2011



The mad scientists at the Force Protection and Explosively Formed Penetrator Branch at Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey have done it again.

The same place that designed the smart mortar and cased telescoped ammo is on the cusp of fielding an artillery shell that has both more consistent fragmentation and can be dialed in to burst shrapnel that’s appropriate for personnel targets or equipment.

“When you’re targeting certain things like personnel or vehicles, you’re looking to get a fragment that’s a particular size,” said Peter Rottinger, a mechanical engineer at Picatinny Arsenal’s Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC).

“With natural fragmentation, you may get some fragments that are not going to be lethal and you may get some fragments that are over-lethal, like four times the size that you really needed to defeat that target, so it becomes inefficient,” Rottinger added.



So they essentially designed an inner core to the shell — whether it’s a 155, 105 or 40mm — that produces fragments that are generally the same size. This so-called “single mode” design evolved into a “multi-mode” iteration that allows Joes to set the fragmentation for the target.

On detonation, the fragments are dispersed according to a desired pattern, depending on whether they are intended for soft targets with smaller fragments, or materiel targets like trucks that require larger shell pieces to be effective.

According to Rottinger, the advantages of the multi-mode warhead are enhanced lethality and greater effectiveness against a wide range of targets.

We’re checking to see whether this technology is being tested out in Afghanistan or Iraq and when it could be available for troops in the field. If anyone’s got any gouge on it first hand, please let us know. Any time technology can make “dumb” munitions smarter, we’re all for it.

Read more: http://kitup.military.com/2011/08/picatinny-dials-in-the-destruction-of-artillery-shells.html#ixzz1VKs7YAos
Kit Up!

[buglerbilly]

Government Releases Funds for the Acquisition of a Modern Rocket System for the Army

(Source: Brazilian Ministry of Defence; issued Aug. 26, 2011)

(Issued in Portuguese only; unofficial translation by defense-aerospace.com)


Brazil’s Astro 2020 program is an improved version of the Avibras Astro II (above), but will launch AV-TM cruise missiles with a range of up to 300 kilometers.

BRASÍLIA --- The Federal Government gave a clear signal yesterday that it intends to pursue the consolidation of a defense industrial base in the country. A decree signed by President of the Republic Dilma Rousseff released additional credit of R $ 45 million to launch the Astros Project 2020, aimed to equip the Brazilian Army.

The project, which has total value of 1.09 billion reals, provides for the acquisition of the most advanced surface-to-surface missile launch system developed in-country. The Astros 2020 is an evolved version of the Astros II, the best-selling product manufactured by Avibras Aerospace. Exported to many countries, the Astros system is considered a market-leader among the small, select and highly competitive group of manufacturers of such systems.

Altogether, the project includes the acquisition of 49 vehicles for the Army, divided into three batteries: 18 launch vehicles, 18 ammunition resupply vehicles, three fire control units, three weather stations, three recovery vehicles and three armored command and control vehicles for each battery and another, final vehicle for integrated command and control.

The main advantage of the new concept is the incorporation of the AV-TM, a high-precision cruise missile with a range of 300 km. Unlike the rockets - which have a ballistic trajectory, defined from the impulse they receive at launch – this missile is guided and its trajectory can be controlled. Another important advance is in the system’s electronics, which is now entirely digital.

In addition to signaling a willingness to carry forward the armed forces modernization process, the acquisition of the Astros 2020 is seen as a major financial recovery point for Avibras. The company applied in July 2008 for protection under the bankruptcy regime. Later, it agreed a financial restructuring with the Federal Government, which involves the refinancing of debt. The purchase of the launcher rocket system is another step towards the improvement of economic and financial company.

The recovery of Avibras has a strategic dimension for the Brazilian defense industry. Besides the ability to export their products, the company will develop skilled labor. The maintenance of intellectual capital signals interest in the production of defense material with exclusively Brazilian technology.

Finally, the launch of the program is seen as a way to promote future exports and to improve Brazil’s trade balance, as export customers require that the system is adopted by at least one of the armed forces of Brazil.

The total investment in the Project Astros 2010 will be carried out over six years, from 2011 to 2016.

-ends-

[JimWH]

version of the Astros II, the best-selling product manufactured by Avibras Aerospace. Exported to many countries, the Astros system is considered a market-leader among the small, select and highly competitive group of manufacturers of such systems.

Sure, those two assertions make perfect sense... provided you're busy smoking your own body weight in crystal meth...
Gotta love South American bravado.

[buglerbilly]

Army Developing New Self-Propelled Howitzer



Washington - The U.S. Army is developing a next-generation, 40-ton 155mm Howitzer artillery cannon able to fire precision rounds, accommodate additional armor protections and power more on-board electrical systems.

The M109 Paladin Integrated Management, or PIM, is slated to begin low-rate initial production by 2013, and features a 600-volt on-board power system designed to accommodate emerging networking technologies as they become available.

The PIM is the Army's modernization program for the 155mm self-propelled Howitzer fleet, said Lt. Col. Dan Furber, product manager, Self-Propelled Howitzer Systems.

"The (space, weight and power) buy-back the PIM will provide is huge," Furber said. "It allows us to add additional armor to the platform and it allows us to add additional capabilities such as automation or electronic packages."

The PIM's on-board power system harnesses technologies developed for the Non-Line-of-Sight Cannon, or NLOS-C, a 155mm Howitzer formerly developed for the Future Combat Systems, Manned-Ground Vehicles program. That program was canceled in 2009.

"We've also harnessed the electric drives from the NLOS-C, which are faster than the hydraulic drives used in the existing fleet," Furber said. "With the electric drives and rammer, we are finding more consistent ramming of the round which allows for more consistent muzzle velocities and we are a little more accurate and responsive with the electric drives."

Prototypes of the vehicle, built by BAE Systems, are now undergoing government testing in preparation for an low-rate initial production decision. The PIM vehicle's cannon rests on a chassis built with Bradley Fighting Vehicle common components including engine, transmission and tracks.

"Being common with Bradley decreases the logistics footprint that echelons above brigades will have to manage," Furber said. "In the long term, it will decrease the amount of money needed to sustain the Bradley and Self-Propelled Howitzer fleets. We will only have to manage one engine, for example, in the supply chain, so there are economies of scale that are beneficial to the Army."

The testing includes reliability, availability and maintainability mission testing as well as ballistic hull and turret testing. Both testing regimes are designed to prepare the program for a Milestone C production decision by 2013.

Like other 155mm artillery systems, the Paladin will be configured to fire precision munitions such as the Excalibur and the Precision Guidance Kit. The PIM is being designed to provide key fire-support for a range of potential combat operations to include conventional, hybrid, irregular and counterinsurgency scenarios.

"While PIM is associated with the heavy brigade combat team, it is a full-spectrum operational platform," Furber said. "For instance, it would allow the artillery crew supporting light infantry on a forward operating base to be protected from indirect fires -- something towed artillery pieces are not able to do."

The PIM includes a sustained rate of fire of one round per-minute and a maximum rate of fire of four rounds per-minute, said Ed Murray, Department of the Army Systems Coordinator - Artillery.

The Army plans to build 580 new Paladin PIM sets. Each set includes a self-propelled howitzer and an ammunition resupply vehicle. The existing fleet of M109A6 Howitzers are nearing obsolescence. Those weapons were originally designed in the 1950's and produced in the 1960's.

As a result, the current fleet exceeds its weight and power capacity and does not provide for growth in mobility and force protection, thus emphasizing that the PIM program is necessary to address the existing capability gaps for self-propelled artillery.

By Kris Osborn, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology Public Affairs



Source : US Army

Read more: http://www.asdnews.com/news/37883/Army_Developing_New_Self-Propelled_Howitzer.htm#ixzz1WnH7BAoG

[buglerbilly]

Commissioning of the HIMARS

Posted: 05 Sep 2011, 1730 hours (Time is GMT +8 hours)


Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen, accompanied by Chief of Artillery Colonel Tan Chong Lee, affixing the Artillery formation emblem onto the HIMARS at the ceremony.


Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen interacting with the gunners from Bravo battery, 23 SA.

Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen officiated at a ceremony to mark the commissioning of the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and operationalisation of the first HIMARS Battery at Khatib Camp this afternoon. During the ceremony, Dr Ng witnessed a demonstration of the deployment and operation of the HIMARS as part of a networked force that included other land platforms.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Dr Ng highlighted the significance of the event to the Artillery and the transformation journey of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). He said, "The successful induction of the HIMARS reflects well on the ability of the SAF to respond decisively to new challenges and changing circumstances in the operational environment." Commending the gunners of 23 SA for their competency and professionalism, Dr Ng noted that while advancements in technology has enhanced the SAF's capabilities and reduced the reliance on manpower, heavier responsibility now rests on the servicemen. He said, "It is ultimately the professionalism and commitment of our people that will translate the latest weapon systems into effective capabilities."

The SAF took delivery of the HIMARS in July 2010 and conducted its inaugural battery live firing in November 2010 in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, USA. The HIMARS, which will be operated by Bravo battery, 23 SA, provides artillery forces with precision fire power, enhanced mobility and advanced networking capabilities.

Also present at the ceremony were Minister of State for Defence Mr Lawrence Wong, Chief of Army Major-General Ravinder Singh and other senior officers from the SAF.

[buglerbilly]

France Chooses European Fire Control for Upgrade

By PIERRE TRAN

Published: 8 Sep 2011 12:02

PARIS - France has opted for a European fire-control system led by a German company over Lockheed Martin's rival offer, as part of a contract to upgrade the French Army's artillery with guided ground rocket launchers.

"The contract for the modification of the 13 French LRM into LRU was awarded to the Krauss-Maffei Wegmann company, at the head of a Franco-German industrial group including Thales, Cassidian (the EADS group) and Sagem (the Safran group)," a statement from the Direction Générale de l'Armement (DGA) procurement office said Sept. 8

Lockheed Martin makes the M31 guided rocket for the Guided Multiple Rocket Launcher System (GMLRS), known in French as the Lance Roquette Unitaire (LRU). The LRU is a conversion of the unguided Multiple Rocket Launcher System, or LRM in French, into a precision weapon.

"The Direction Générale de l'Armement has asked Sept. 8 the German defense ministry's BWB armaments agency to order 13 LRU," the DGA statement said.

Lockheed Martin had pitched its Universal Fire Control System against the European Fire Control System proposed by the group led by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann.

A DGA spokesman declined to give price information on the order.

Lockheed Martin ordered a first batch of 258 rocket motors in December 2010 from Roxel, the Anglo-French missile propulsion company, for the M31 rocket, in anticipation of the LRU contract.

From 2008-2009, the DGA ordered 264 of the M31 rockets, which are due for delivery in 2013, the DGA said.

First delivery of the LRU system to the French Army is scheduled for 2014.

The French LRU acquisition is being done in conjunction with Germany and Italy, which bought the GMLRS in the 1990s. The conversion of the unguided GMLRS artillery follows the signing of the Oslo agreement on banning the use of cluster submunitions.

The LRU is designed to deliver accuracy to within one meter of target in day and night, at ranges up to 70 kilometers.

Roxel expects further orders for LRU rocket motors, built under license from Aerojet. The LRU system was bought under a memorandum of understanding signed by Britain, Germany, France, Italy and the United States.

[buglerbilly]

New rocket launch detection system unveiled by IAI


EL/M 2084 Multi Mission Radar. (Photo: IAI)

Othello system will allow IDF to respond immediately to rocket fire

14:44 GMT, September 9, 2011 This week, Israel Aerospace Industries unveiled the Othello system, which is an advanced optical system that detects launches (of rockets, anti-tank missiles and artillery) by identifying the optical signature during launches.

The system is able in real-time to determine the launch site, which will allow the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to respond immediately.

The system is currently in advanced stages of testing.

The system can be installed on armored combat vehicles, light tactical vehicles and airborne platforms.

Also this week, the Rex system was unveiled. Rex is a small robotic platform capable of carrying 200 kilograms while accompanying soldiers operating in the field. Rex is intended to accompany groups of 3-10 soldiers during missions and can operate for 72 hours without refueling.

An aerospace industry official told IDF Website that "the future is unmanned robotic and aerial vehicles. We have a lot of work to do but we are advancing unmanned technologies in order to reduce casualties."

----
Avihai Chiim

Related news:

Israel Aerospace Industries unveils new defense technologies at the Latrun Conference
»http://www.defpro.com/news/details/27457/

[buglerbilly]

Artillery Corps Considers New Cannon Systems

(Source: Israel Defense Forces; dated Sept. 20, 2011)

This seems to be a very much of an Apples versus Oranges comparison, a Wheeled, truck-mounted cannon only partially automated versus a fully-automated, TRACKED cannon. Mind you I do seem to remember a trcuk-mounted AGS........hmmmmmmm

The Artillery Corps is continuing its consideration of new cannon systems, as part of a multi-year plan.

At this point, the two primary cannon systems being looked at are one that is manufactured by the Israeli Elbit company and another that is manufactured by a German company and will be built in the United States.

The Artillery Corps is seeking a cannon system with increased range, quicker rate of fire and enhanced ability to be loaded automatically.

The new cannon system that will be chosen is expected to replace the Doher 155mm cannon system that has been used for many years by IDF artillery units.

This Elbit cannon system under consideration is called ATMOS and is transported by truck. It fires a 155mm shell and has a range of more than 40 kilometers.

The other cannon system being looked at is made by the German KMW company and is called the AGM. It also fires a 155mm shell and has a range of more than 40 kilometers. It can fire up to six shells per minute.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Saudi Arabia to Modernize Three Artillery Regiments with M777A2, M119A Howitzers


An M-777 155mm howitzer fires at a low ballistic trajectory in Afghanistan, as 3rd Platoon, Alpha Battery, 1st Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 172nd Infantry Brigade, supported ISAF operations in Afghanistan, September 3, Photo by U.S. Army photo by Spc. Ken Scar, 7th MPAD

Saudi Arabia is seeking to equip three field artillery regiments, two will be equipped with advanced lightweight M777A2 towed howitzers and one with air-transportable M119As, both produced by BAE Systems. The three artillery battalions (53 guns) and associated target acquisition and fire locating radars, in an arms package worth about $886 million.

The package includes two regiments (36 guns) of M777A2 and one regiment equipped with17 M119As howitzers, each unit to be supported by with two TPQ-36 ‘Fire Finder’ radar systems. The units will also deploy with standard U.S. Army artillery C4I systems (Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data Systems – AFATDS). The package will also include 19,440 rounds of ammunition, including 17,136 rounds of the M107 High Explosive (HE) rounds and 2,304 extended range, Rocket Assisted Projectiles (M549 RAPs). The package will also include 60 M1165A1 High Mobility Multipurpose Vehicles (HMMWVs), 120 M1151A1 HMMWVs, 252 M1152A1 HMMWVs, and export versions of the Single Channel Ground And Airborne Radio Systems (SINCGARS) supporting the C4I system.

Among the companies providing the hardware for this package are BAE Systems in the United Kingdom, the prime contractor for the howitzers, AM General, providing the vehicles and ITT Defense and Information Solutions providing the radios. Thales Raytheon Systems will deliver the radars. Other suppliers include Smith Detection, SRCTec, Northrop Grumman Corporation and General Dynamics C4 Systems.


M119A howitzer supports ISAF forces in Afghanistan. High trajectory fire is often employed in mountainous terrain, enabling the firing unit to be based in the valley where access is easier, but reach targets beyond the ridges surrounding it. Photo: U.S. Army

[buglerbilly]

Thursday, September 22, 2011, 08:45 AM

Lockheed Martin delivers 400th HIMARS high mobility rocket artillery launcher to U.S. Army.

We'll have a couple of dozen please................:wave

CAMDEN, AR, September 21st, 2011 -- The U.S. Army and Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] marked the delivery of the 400th High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) during ceremonies today at the company’s Camden, Ark., manufacturing facility. The Army has received 300 HIMARS mobile rocket launchers to date, while the U.S. Marine Corps and international partners have taken delivery of 100 launchers.



“The HIMARS launcher is in high demand because it’s a combat proven system that provides Soldiers and Marines with a reliable, mobile platform to launch precision rockets and missiles,” said Scott Arnold, vice president of precision fires in Lockheed Martin’s Missiles and Fire Control business. “We’re proud the U.S. Army, the U.S. Marine Corps and our international allies depend on HIMARS every day, and consider it an indispensable combat asset.”

In service since 2005, HIMARS brings Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) firepower to a wheeled chassis. It carries a single six-pack of rockets or one Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missile, and can launch the entire MLRS family of munitions. It is C-130-transportable and can be deployed into areas previously inaccessible to heavier launchers.

HIMARS also incorporates the self-loading, autonomous features that have made MLRS the premier rocket artillery system in the world. The HIMARS fire-control system, electronics and communications units are interchangeable with the existing MLRS M270A1 launcher, and the crew and training are the same.

[Milne Bay]

Thursday, September 22, 2011, 08:45 AM

Lockheed Martin delivers 400th HIMARS high mobility rocket artillery launcher to U.S. Army.

We'll have a couple of dozen please................:wave

CAMDEN, AR, September 21st, 2011 -- The U.S. Army and Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] marked the delivery of the 400th High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) during ceremonies today at the company’s Camden, Ark., manufacturing facility. The Army has received 300 HIMARS mobile rocket launchers to date, while the U.S. Marine Corps and international partners have taken delivery of 100 launchers.



“The HIMARS launcher is in high demand because it’s a combat proven system that provides Soldiers and Marines with a reliable, mobile platform to launch precision rockets and missiles,” said Scott Arnold, vice president of precision fires in Lockheed Martin’s Missiles and Fire Control business. “We’re proud the U.S. Army, the U.S. Marine Corps and our international allies depend on HIMARS every day, and consider it an indispensable combat asset.”

In service since 2005, HIMARS brings Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) firepower to a wheeled chassis. It carries a single six-pack of rockets or one Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missile, and can launch the entire MLRS family of munitions. It is C-130-transportable and can be deployed into areas previously inaccessible to heavier launchers.

HIMARS also incorporates the self-loading, autonomous features that have made MLRS the premier rocket artillery system in the world. The HIMARS fire-control system, electronics and communications units are interchangeable with the existing MLRS M270A1 launcher, and the crew and training are the same.

From what I have read it seems there is next to no chance of Australia getting any of these. Is that correct< or are they a possibility at any stage?

[JimWH]

It doesn't appear in the DCP or in the White Paper, so the odds against at the moment are relatively long. Though we can live in hope, and no doubt Army and DMO are both well aware of the system and would be more than happy to recommend it to government at a moment's notice should they ever be asked*.

_____
*One would hope that other things on the list would include Loitering Munitions, upgrade of the D-Chooks to F of G standard, and procurement of additional HATS aircraft for BLUH.

[Gubler, A.]

There is a requirement under JP 2085 Phases 2/3 for long range guided munitions. With NetFires NLOS-LS being seen as a solution back before it was cancelled. HIMARS could be a solution to this requirement with the M31 (GMLRS) and XM29 rockets. The German version of the later carrying the same skeet SFM as the SMART 155 round.

[buglerbilly]

I've always been a fan of HIMARS and there are enough munitions around to make it very interesting but I also look with interest at the Loitering Munitions, as Jim has mentioned, especially the Brit example about to go into service in Afghanistan.

IF it works as advertised it would make a very good compliment to HIMARS, not a replacement but a compliment.

[JimWH]

My CONOPS for these munitions in Australian service would be that they'd be a theatre level asset deployed as a mixed heavy battery. They'd answer to the theatre Fires coordinator (not sure of the terminology) who'd make the call about which munitions to use. This would dovetail with access to the theatres available ISTARS assets, and I'd imagine the HQ would also be the logical controlling authority for the deployed UAVs. Depending upon circumstance the deployed gun artillery may also be put under direct command (as an alternative, the guns would fall under the command of the inf/cav battle groups/combat teams). The net result is that the theatre commander has access in one place to an authority able to deploy rapid fire support anwhere within a 100km radius at virtually no-notice, and junior commanders have a single point of conact when they want heavy artillery support.
All in all the requirement comes out at no more than a dozen and a half of each systems in order to support a handful of deployable troops of each type.

[Gubler, A.]

My CONOPS for these munitions in Australian service would be that they'd be a theatre level asset deployed as a mixed heavy battery. They'd answer to the theatre Fires coordinator (not sure of the terminology) who'd make the call about which munitions to use.

The choice of munitions is actually a political one. Until the US develops a Cluster Bomb Treaty compliant ICM round for MLRS (and they are working on it) the only rounds available are GMLRS unitary and the carrier round with SFMs (aka Skeets, SADRAM, SMART). So HIMARS brings to the Australian Army a hard hitting precision strike round (equal to 203mm compared to 155mm Excalibur) and a saturation of SFMs (enough to take out a company of tanks from a single launcher). It’s not quite what NLOS-LS would provide and without political access to the ICM round not really worth it compared to what 155mm brings. Basically one hit equal to two arty shells.

As to level of command the only theatre level fires coordination capability in the Army is in HQ 6 BDE. The joint task force (JTF) level JOSCC is within an artillery regiment combat support battery (aka HQ Bty). The way artillery is now structured is very flexible in its allocation of fires to the various arty command levels. Any troop/section of HIMARS (probably best to deploy them as sections of two launchers) would just operate like the gun troops being allocated at JOSCC as per need.


This would dovetail with access to the theatres available ISTARS assets, and I'd imagine the HQ would also be the logical controlling authority for the deployed UAVs. Depending upon circumstance the deployed gun artillery may also be put under direct command (as an alternative, the guns would fall under the command of the inf/cav battle groups/combat teams).

STA is an input into the JOSCC which then sends missions to the appropriate FDC which controls the guns/launchers of a particular troop. With digital comms systems there is no need to have a direct relationship between the STA and the shooter. All fires are now strike-recce complexes.


The net result is that the theatre commander has access in one place to an authority able to deploy rapid fire support anwhere within a 100km radius at virtually no-notice, and junior commanders have a single point of conact when they want heavy artillery support.

That’s pretty much how it works for everyone now. Though you range estimates are a bit generous.

[buglerbilly]

US DOD orders M777 Howitzers

October 03, 2011



The US Department of Defense has ordered 70 BAE Systems lightweight M777 howitzers to begin equipping the US Army's Infantry Brigade Combat Teams (IBCTs).

Valued at $134m (£87m), the order takes the US-UK production programme to October 2013 and a total of 1071 guns.

The order follows a $21m (£13m) contract in July to design, develop, qualify and manufacture an improved Power Conditioning Control Module (PCCM). This is the battery charging system that provides stable power to the Digital Fire Control System. Over the next four years, 1049 units will be produced for fitting to in-service guns.

The improved PCCM must be lighter but deliver better reliability and accommodate future accessories, such as electronic thermal management and laser ignition. It will also allow the use of lithium ion, as well as the current lead-acid, batteries.

Mike Smith, managing director of BAE Systems' Global Combat Systems Weapons business commented: "Bringing M777 to the IBCTs will enhance their ability to carry out an ever-expanding range of missions. This latest order reinforces the system's credentials while the focused development underlines our determination to keep M777 the howitzer of choice."

Weighing in at less than 4200kg, the revolutionary M777 is the world's first artillery weapon to make widespread use of titanium and aluminium alloys, resulting in a howitzer which is half the weight of conventional towed 155mm systems. As a result, it can be deployed by medium-lift helicopter quickly and beyond the reach of roadside bombs to otherwise inaccessible areas, extending its reach over the theater of operations.

BAE Systems' facility at Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is responsible for final integration and test of the weapon system. The prime contract management of the M777 program and manufacture and assembly of the complex titanium structures and associated recoil components are undertaken at Barrow-in-Furness in the United Kingdom.

Source: BAE Systems

[buglerbilly]

Saab receives Multi-Mission Radar order from the US

October 05, 2011



Defence and security company Saab has received an order for the GIRAFFE AMB multi-mission radar system and related services from the US Department of State. The order value is MUSD 23.7 (MSEK 155).

"Saab is proud that the US Department of State has selected the Giraffe AMB to provide sense and warn capability to protect their deployed personnel from incoming threats and create superior situational awareness. We are looking forward to a continued long relationship with the US Department of State, says Micael Johansson, Senior Vice President and Head of Saab's business area Electronic Defence Systems.

The program will involve both Saab's newly acquired subsidiary Saab Sensis located in Syracuse, New York, as well as Saab in Gothenburg, Sweden. Deliveries will take place during 2012 and 2013.

The Giraffe AMB is a world leading Multi-Mission Radar System that detects enemy threats from Rocket, Artillery and Mortar attacks while simultaneously conducting Air Surveillance.

The system is part of Saab's continuously evolving radar program and provides unmatched performance for critical targets and proven reliability. Whether as a part of vital point protection or area air defence solutions, the Giraffe AMB has become the radar of choice for armed forces worldwide, including those of Sweden, France, Estonia,UK and Australia amongst others.

The combat proven Giraffe AMB, with its unique capabilities, has saved many lives during its service in different theatres around the world.

Source: Saab

[buglerbilly]

Military Unveils Vehicle-Mounted 105-Millimeter Self-Propelled Artillery

(Source: Korean Ministry of National Defense; dated Sept. 26, 2011)


The Korean military’s new five-ton truck mounted 105mm gun howitzer was developed by Samsung Techwin, the Samsung Group’s defense and precision machinery unit. (ROK MND photo)

The first truck mounted 105-millimeter howitzer was revealed to the media for the first time on Sept. 22 at the Ministry of National Defense in Yongsan, Seoul.

The new weapon, developed by Samsung Techwin, the Samsung Group’s defense and precision machinery unit, was displayed at a weapon exhibition that was opened inside the ministry compound.

After being assigned as a project under Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration in 2009, Samsung Techwin begin making the new wheeled howitzer from 2010 in an effort to enhance combat capabilities with other widely used artilleries.

“Since the 105-millimeter self-propelled artillery is being loaded on a five-ton truck, the cost of the weapon is relatively cheap and it shows more outstanding performance than existing towed artillery,” said an executive at Samsung Techwin. “Shells have to be loaded manually. But firing control is operated automatically and radiation of heat can be selected either in automatic, manual and half automatic. The number of operating personnel can be reduced by three compared to existing towed artilleries.”

In the meantime, other new weapons were also displayed at the exhibition: Signal Robot that is embedded with bullets developed by Hanwha and a portable Global Positioning System automatic warning device developed by Hyundai

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[buglerbilly]

ATK Completes Successful Artillery Precision Guidance Kit Testing

(Source: ATK Alliant Techsystems; issued October 5, 2011)


Combat Ammunition Systems (OPM-CAS) - Precision Guidance Kit (PGK) operational overview (old pic as it has NLOS-C still in there)


MINNEAPOLIS --- Office of the Project Manager, Combat Ammunition Systems (OPM-CAS) and ATK have successfully completed Precision Guidance Kit (PGK) Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) Phase 3 Design Verification guided flight testing (GFT) during a recent 48-round test at Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz.

During this stringent test, PGK significantly exceeded expectations and requirements for both reliability and safety while demonstrating accuracy that exceeds the 30-meter Circle Error Probable (CEP) objective requirement.

During this end-of-Phase 3 GFT, structured to challenge PGK in the harshest gun launch environments, PGK demonstrated consistent, reliable performance following tactical vibration and temperature conditioning in both extreme heat and cold environments. Additionally, PGK-fuzed rounds were fired from both the M109 Paladin 155mm Self-propelled Howitzer and the M777A2 155mm Lightweight Towed Howitzer to ensure consistent performance across platforms. These results prove PGK's ability to dependably guide 155mm artillery projectiles over the operational envelope tested, significantly exceeding both Phase 3 reliability requirements as well as objective accuracy requirements.

"PGK's performance in this rigorous design verification testing surpassed expectations and demonstrates that PGK will perform as expected in combat conditions," said Bruce DeWitt, Vice President and General Manager for ATK Advanced Weapons division.

"This was a spectacular feat for our team," added Colonel Scott Turner, PM-CAS. "PGK performance demonstrated during this test far exceeds anything I've seen since I came on board two years ago - a major step in the right direction."

Pending official test scoring and review by OPM-CAS at an Independent Review Team Program Review in mid-September 2011, preliminary results indicate readiness to continue to the next EMD phase, including Army consideration of a potential PGK accelerated fielding option.

PGK is a low-cost, guided fuze that fits within the deep intrusion fuze well of U.S. high explosive artillery projectiles. PGK performs in-flight course corrections that greatly reduce artillery dispersion. The ATK design features a GPS-based, fixed-canard guidance and control approach with gun-hardened electronics and a self-generated power supply (no battery required). This rugged, yet elegant design involves only one moving part.

Today's battlefield is ever-changing in terms of terrain and engagement criteria. Reducing the risk of friendly and civilian casualties and collateral damage to infrastructure is critical. PGK is compatible with existing 155mm artillery stockpiles and provides an accurate, responsive, and flexible capability to reduce dispersion normally experienced with today's conventional inventories.

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

AUSA 2011: LM pushes EQ-36 counter-fires radar

October 10, 2011



Lockheed Martin is exhibiting its Enhanced AN/TPQ-36 (EQ-36) Counter-fire Target Acquisition Radar at AUSA 2011 following its successful employment by the US Army.

The company recently submitted a contract proposal for full-rate production of the EQ-36 as the new US Army radar to provide soldiers in combat with enhanced 360-degree protection from rockets, mortars and artillery.

The radar is expected to replace legacy AN/TPQ-36 and AN/TPQ-37 medium-range radars currently in the US Army’s inventory. According to Lee Flake, Lockheed Martin’s Director Integrated Warfare Systems and Sensors, the original requirement was for up to 170 systems.

The radar was developed by Lockheed Martin under a separate 2007 contract to detect, classify, track and locate the source of enemy indirect fire in either 360- or 90-degree modes. The company delivered four developmental systems and is proceeding on to deliver 32 systems under several limited production contract awards.

‘It is very capable from a readiness level and has a very good rate of use,’ Flake told Shephard. So far the company has delivered 14 production systems and the four developmental radars.

‘I currently have five radars in Iraq and five in Afghanistan with another two about to head over,’ Flake continued. The first of these was deployed in the fall of 2010.

‘We send a field service representative with each radar, and they become part of the unit. They follow the radar through the production process and know everything about it because they are there when it is born.’

The company says it is getting high levels of reliability out of the system. ‘All I can say is that we are doing much better than the requirement,’ Flake hedged.

The radar is mounted on its five-ton truck. The Mission Essential Group contains the radar antenna and the power generator; while the Sustainment Group configuration incorporates an operations control shelter and backup power generator.

The EQ-36 has a crew of four, but the high levels of automation mean that it can be operated with two personnel. In comparison the current AN/TPQ-36 has a crew of six and the AN/TPQ-37 has a full team of twelve.

Flake said he expected to hear from the US Army about full rate production of the radar in the next six months. ‘We are currently building two systems a month, but could increase that to a much higher level. We are prepared to be flexible and could go to any numbers that the army wants us to,’ he concluded.

Darren Lake, Washington DC

[buglerbilly]

Rheinmetall Artillery: Accurate and Effective Fire Support for A Strong Army

(Source: Rheinmetall Defence; issued October 10, 2011)

“I do not have to tell you who won the war. You know, the artillery did.” - General George S. Patton

Thanks to its indirect fire capability, artillery remains indispensable in modern combat operations, even in asymmetric conflicts. The precision and firepower of cannon artillery offer a wide array of operational possibilities, ranging from a show of force in the form of a few well-targeted warning shots to the use of special smoke/obscurant ammunition for screening the movements of friendly forces, and from blocking off key areas of terrain to breaking up enemy infantry formations and destroying high-value enemy assets.

Denel Landsystems, General Dynamics Land Systems and Rheinmetall Denel Munitions are cooperating in a project, that could result in equipping the highly mobile Stryker Brigade Combat Teams with a 105mm self-propelled howitzer based on the 8x8 Stryker vehicle to serve as a future artillery effector. In this project Denel Landsystems is responsible for the T7 turret and the gun, General Dynamics Land Systems for the vehicle and Rheinmetall Denel Munition for the ammunition as well as a Unimodular Charge System.

At AUSA, Rheinmetall is presenting its innovative ammunition for this new weapons system. The Group’s new 105mm M1130 base-bleed (BB) and M1131 Boat Tail (BT) projectiles are insensitive high explosive pre-formed fragment (IHE PFF) shells, developed by Rheinmetall Denel Munition. They are based on the Igala M0125 IHE PFF rounds made by Rheinmetall Denel Munition. Their effect on semi-hard targets is comparable to that of a 155mm high explosive shell.

Trials in South Africa demonstrated that the Igala, when fired by the 105mm long-range Light Experimental Ordnance (LEO) cannon from Denel Land Systems and propelled by a five-module RDM XM24A42 charge, can attain a maximum range of over 33 kilometres.

By way of comparison, when fired from a 105mm M119A2 Light Gun with a conventional seven-zone M67 propelling charge, the longest range attained by the ammunition was 13.8 km.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Lockheed Martin submits bid for new mobile radar system

Posted by Chris Kelly | October 11th, 2011 | AUSA 2011


Lockheed Martin Mobile Radar System

By MARCUS WEISGERBER – Lockheed Martin has submitted a bid to the U.S. Army for the full-rate production of a mobile radar system that can detect mortars, rockets and artillery fire in combat.

The 360-degree capable Enhanced AN/TPQ-36 (EQ-36) Counterfire Target Acquisition Radar does the work of the legacy Q-36 and Q-37 radar systems, which only provide 90-degree coverage.

“The maintenance is easier and it’s much more reliable than the old systems,” Lee Flake, the Lockheed program director, said in an interview. “It does both the short-range and the long-range [detection] missions in one radar.”

The company submitted the full-rate production bid to the Army late last month.

Unlike the legacy system, the EQ-36 can level itself and be up and running in matter of minutes. The older systems take 15 to 30 minutes to set-up, according to Flake.

The radar is mounted on back end of a truck and the control shelter is located inside a separate truck. A crew of four can operate the EQ-36, while six soldiers are needed for the Q-36 and 12 for the Q-37.

“The crew can essentially maintain this radar themselves without bringing in a lot of other maintenance support,” Flake said.

Since 2008, the Army has awarded Lockheed contracts for 32 EQ-36 radars. The company delivers about two per month. Lockheed has delivered 14 to the Army, and 18 are in production.

Five EQ-36 radars are deployed to Afghanistan and five are in Iraq, according to Flake.

“We have a very high operational readiness rate,” Flake said.

[buglerbilly]

Photo Release -- Northrop Grumman Demonstrates HAMMR "On-the-Move" Radar at Yuma Proving Grounds


Northrop Grumman's HAMMR is a multi-mission ground tactical radar designed to provide counter-rocket, artillery and mortar (C-RAM) as well as air defense capabilities while "on-the-move."

YUMA, Ariz., Oct. 11, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) successfully demonstrated the Highly Adaptable Multi-Mission Radar (HAMMR), which is a derivative of the Defense Department's Ground Based Fighter Radar (GBFR), a multi-mission ground tactical radar designed to provide the U.S. Army with counter-rocket, artillery and mortar (C-RAM) as well as air defense capabilities while "on-the-move." The GBFR contract was awarded to Northrop Grumman in 2009 by the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center at Redstone Arsenal, Ala.

A photo accompanying this release is available at http://media.globenewswire.com/noc/mediagallery.html?pkgid=10810

HAMMR features a compact, lightweight ground configuration that employs active electronically scanned array (AESA) antenna technology from airborne fighter aircraft. In this configuration, the radar provides 360-degree coverage while mounted and moving on a vehicle and is easily deployable from a variety of expeditionary platforms, providing the rapid transport capability required by today's warfighter. The testing took place at the Army's Yuma Proving Grounds.

"HAMMR's on-the-move capacity, as demonstrated at Yuma, will provide the U.S. ground forces with critical capabilities that ensure mission success in today's irregular warfare environment," said John Jadik, vice president of weapons and sensors for Northrop Grumman's Land and Self Protection Systems Division. "This demonstration further positions Northrop Grumman as a leader in AESA technologies."

The heart of the HAMMR system, the AESA, is composed of more than a thousand programmable transmit/receive modules that enable HAMMR to successfully detect, track and engage numerous target types, at multiple positions, and in varying paths and trajectories. The flexibility of HAMMR's AESA architecture enables growth to address new threats without redesigning the system, a major benefit compared to existing radar systems.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide. Please visit www.northropgrumman.com for more information.

[buglerbilly]

NGC and USMC PEO for Land Systems Demo G/ATOR at Pentagon


Source / copyright : Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC)

Washington - Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) and the U.S. Marine Corps Program Executive Officer for Land Systems demonstrated the AN/TPS-80 Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR) system to senior Department of Defense leaders at the Pentagon on Oct. 5 and 6.

Currently in test at the company's Electronic Systems sector headquarters in Baltimore performing live aircraft detection and tracking, G/ATOR is the first ground-based, multi-role radar to be developed for the U.S. Department of Defense. With its ability to intelligently and adaptively allocate its myriad sensor capabilities, G/ATOR is able to detect and track a wide variety of threats, including manned aircraft, cruise missiles and unmanned autonomous systems, as well as mortar, rocket and artillery rounds.

"G/ATOR will replace five legacy Marine Corps ground-based radars with significantly advanced operational capabilities and enhanced mobility, reliability, and most importantly, operational availability, while simultaneously providing large reductions in operating, maintenance and overall life-cycle costs," said Jeff Palombo, vice president and general manager of Northrop Grumman's Land and Self Protection Systems Division. "G/ATOR's scalable, modular open system architecture design enables additional enhancements via software-only updates for potential use by additional military services."

G/ATOR's subsystems include the Radar Equipment Group (REG), the Communications Equipment Group (CEG) and the Power Equipment Group (PEG). The heart of the AN/TPS-80 G/ATOR system, the REG, consists of the advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) antenna and all associated control and processing electronics mounted on a lightweight tactical trailer.

The G/ATOR contract was awarded to Northrop Grumman in early 2007 by the Marine Corps Systems Command. The program is managed by the Marine Corps' Program Executive Officer for Land Systems in Quantico, Va. The program's principal subcontractors are Saab-Sensis, Curtiss Wright and Moog Industries.

Read more: http://www.asdnews.com/news/38819/NGC_and_USMC_PEO_for_Land_Systems_Demo_G/ATOR_at_Pentagon_.htm#ixzz1aYmFPkgA

[buglerbilly]

Raytheon Excalibur Ia-2 Ready for Use in Afghanistan

(Source: Raytheon Company; issued October 12, 2011)

WASHINGTON --- Raytheon Company successfully fired nine rounds in U.S. Army lot acceptance tests, which means the Excalibur Ia-2 precision-guided projectile is ready for U.S. Army and Marine Corps use in Afghanistan.

Building on the proven technology of the Excalibur Ia-1, the Excalibur Ia-2 includes upgrades designed to meet the projected threat environment, while maintaining true precision and accuracy of better than a 6-meter circular error probable. Excalibur Ia-2 also extends the range of Excalibur Ia-1 from 24 to 37.5 kilometers, which is 50 percent farther than conventional artillery. Excalibur's first-round precision enables it to defeat fleeting and persistent targets.

"The precision Excalibur provides is essential to the missions our warfighters are conducting in urban and surrounding environments. It protects structures, the population and our warfighters," said Lt. Col. Mike Milner, U.S. Army Excalibur Product Manager. "The Excalibur Ia-2 rounds going into theater will give the warfighter the ability to accurately defeat targets before the target can run and hide."

The Excalibur precision-guided projectile is available regardless of time of day or environment, giving warfighters life-saving options. Excalibur complements air-delivered precision when close air support is unavailable or not the best option. With more than 500 rounds fired to date, Excalibur has made its mark on the battlefield.

"Raytheon developed and fielded the world's first extended-range GPS guided precision artillery rounds," said Michelle Lohmeier, vice president of Raytheon Land Combat Systems for Raytheon Missile Systems. "We continue to build upon our legacy as the world's experts in precision munitions as we deliver Excalibur Ia-2 to our warfighters."

Excalibur is a 155-mm precision guided artillery round now with extended range. Successfully fielded in 2007, Excalibur Ia-1 has a 24 kilometers range from U.S. howitzers (Paladin and LW 155). Using GPS precision guidance technology, Excalibur has proven invaluable to widely dispersed units engaged in operations close to the population and in the surrounding fields, valleys and mountainous terrain of Afghanistan.

--Consistently lands within 6 meters of its target
--More than 500 rounds fired in theater to date
--Precision capability reduces collateral damage

Raytheon Company, with 2010 sales of $25 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 72,000 people worldwide.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Saturday, October 15, 2011, 10:54 AM

Turkey and Azerbaijan reached an agreement on purchase and sale Firtina 155mm howitzer.

Though Azerbaijan and Turkey reached an agreement on purchase and sale of Firtina self-propelled howitzer, according to the reports there are some technical problems in the project. Germany’s MTU company, which is providing Firtina with engine, refused to provide with engine the self-propelled howitzer that will be sold to Azerbaijan. Yonca-Onuk company, which is going to sell boats to Azerbaijan, has faced similar problem.


Firtina Turkish 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer at IDEF defence exhibition in Turkey

“As a brotherly country we have assumed the solution of this problem,” Bayar said.

According to Murad Bayar, Turkey is considering two new variants on export of weapons to Azerbaijan. One of them is the purchase of engine from another country.

“Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation is considering alternative variants. The second variant is the production of engine in Turkey. We have started work for the production of engines in Turkey. It will take approximately four or five years. There will be no problems after that,” he said.

Bayar also added that T-155 “Firtina” system was a very strong weapon. Azerbaijan will gain the additional power by including it to the weapon inventory. The Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation’s (MKEK) CEO Unal Onsipahioglu told APA that the problem was on the eve of its settlement: “The engine and transmission problems of the artillery system have been solved and the alternative company was found”.

Germany’s MTU Company which provided “Firtina” with engine, refused to give an engine to Azerbaijan because of Nagorno Karabakh conflict.

[buglerbilly]

Nexter Systems Forms Consortium with Larsen & Toubro for 155 mm Towed Gun Artillery Program for Indian Army

(Source: Nexter Systems; issued September 2, 2011)

PARIS, France --- Defence majors Nexter Systems of France and Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) of India signed an Agreement announcing the formation of Nexter Systems led consortium for 155 mm Towed Gun Artillery program for the Indian Army.

Under the proposal, Nexter will field TRAJAN, 155 mm/52-calibre weapon system. TRAJAN offers enhanced firepower through quicker response, longer range and improved accuracy. It covers larger areas with fewer guns and favours initiative, manoeuvring and quick reaction time while minimizing risks. Nexter has provided 145 Towed guns systems to French Army and other armed forces.

“Joining forces between Nexter and Larsen & Toubro will bring through a fruitful cooperation, the development of the innovative 155 mm Towed Gun that will better answer Indian Army needs” said Mr.Philippe Burtin, Chairman and CEO, Nexter Systems.

Larsen & Toubro, in association with Nexter Systems, will manufacture critical subsystems for TRAJAN which will integrate and provide required support for the gun system to the Indian Army. L&T brings to the Consortium its track record of development of various weapon systems for Defence Research & Development Organisation and Indian armed forces across Land, Naval and Air Defence applications.

“L&T and Nexter Consortium will endeavour to provide a winning solution to the Indian Army,” said Mr.M V Kotwal, President Heavy Engineering and Member of the Board, L&T. “Besides providing the most advanced Artillery towed Gun System to the Indian Army this partnership will also open up new avenues in the Indian and global defence markets for both the partners.”

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Although this release is over six weeks old, we are posting it because it has been released for the first time on Nexter’s new website.)

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Raytheon receives US Marine Corps Excalibur order

25 October 2011 - 16:58 by the Shephard News Team



Raytheon has received an urgent operational order from the US Marine Corps for 1,037 155m Excalibur extended range, precision-guided artillery projectiles for use in Afghanistan, according to a press release issued by the company on 25 October.

Raytheon said that the US Marines (USMC) have ‘significantly increased operational use of Excalibur in the last year, firing as many as 32 rounds in one week’, and that integration of Excalibur into the regiment combat teams has given the USMC the ability to provide ‘responsive precision artillery fires across their operational zone’.

The Excalibur family of precision projectiles has been in use with the USMC and the US Army since 2007. Using GPS precision guidance technology, Excalibur provides accurate, first round, fire-for-effect capability in an urban setting. Raytheon claims that Excalibur is considered a true precision weapon, impacting at a radial miss distance of 6 meters from the target.

Lt Col Mike Milner, US Army Excalibur product manager, said of the operational need requirement: ‘the marines are using Excalibur as a critical, life-saving capability in Afghanistan. They have developed tactics to enable its use on demand and as a result, they have been able to conduct essential missions that would otherwise go unengaged’.

[buglerbilly]

India Cancels Wheeled Howitzer Purchase

By VIVEK RAGHUVANSHI

Published: 1 Nov 2011 15:51

Jeez you'd have to despair if you were the General in charge of artillery..............ferkin Singapore Tech complaining about the lightweight howitzer is rich in irony considering the rampant plaigerism of their gun versus the BAE one..............its gun is NOT superior in anything other than their salesmen's minds

NEW DELHI - The Indian Defence Ministry has canceled the tender to purchase 180 wheeled 155mm/52-caliber howitzers, another in a series of setbacks for the long-delayed Army program.

The Indian Army has failed to induct a single 155mm howitzer since 1987.

Defence Ministry sources said the purchase of the wheeled guns is being canceled following complaints to Defence Minister A.K. Antony about technical snags that came to light when a gun from one of the competitors, Konstrukta of Slovakia, burst during trials last year.

Currently Rheinmetall of Germany and Konstrukta are in the race for the $1 billion wheeled gun competition after Samsung of South Korea was eliminated from the procurement process in 2009.

After the howitzer burst during the trials last year, a Defence Ministry committee concluded the guns offered by Rheinmetall and Konstrukta are prototypes that are not in use even in their home countries.

In 2008, the tender for the wheeled guns was sent to the U.K.'s BAE Systems; Slovakia's Konstrukta; France's Nexter; IMI and Soltam of Israel; Samsung of South Korea; United Defense of the U.S.; Rheinmetall of Germany; and Rosoboronexport of Russia.

Only Rheinmetall, Konstrukta and Samsung were shortlisted after the technical evaluations.

The Indian Army requires that the wheeled 155mm/52-caliber guns be able to travel up to 40 kilometers and fire 150 rounds of ammunition in six to eight hours.

The gun should be able to operate day and night and receive data from the command post in digital and audio form.

The howitzer procurement is already delayed by more than 10 years, mainly due to India's blacklisting first of Denel of South Africa and then Singapore Technologies in 2008 because of alleged corruption.

The Army plans to buy 145 ultralight howitzers, 158 towed and wheeled, 100 tracked and 180 wheeled and armored guns in the first phase of its program to upgrade its artillery divisions.

Towed Guns

In May, BAE Systems opted out of the towed howitzer competition because the Indian Army changed requirements in the reissued tender of early 2011.

The Army's 2008 attempt to acquire the towed guns failed when BAE, which had fielded the FH-77B-5 gun, became the sole vendor after the other shortlisted competitor, Singapore Technologies, was blacklisted following allegations of corruption by India's Central Bureau of Investigation. The Army could not make an award if only one bidder qualified.

Light Howitzer

The purchase of light howitzers from BAE's U.S. subsidiary also was delayed when Singapore Technologies went to court and challenged the decision, claiming its gun was superior.

The Indian court has not issued a decision, although the Army strongly favors the immediate purchase of the 147 BAE light howitzers, Army officials said.

[buglerbilly]

Wednesday, November 2, 2011, 01:35 PM

Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) conduct live-firing exercice with HIMARS in United States.

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is conducting a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) live-firing exercise, code-named Daring Warrior, from 21 October to 7 November 2011, at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, USA. The exercise involved 234 personnel from the Headquarters, Singapore Artillery, Headquarters 3rd Division Artillery and 23rd Battalion, Singapore Artillery as well as the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF).


The Singapore Armed Forces' HIMARS in action during the live-firing exercise.

In conjunction with Exercise Daring Warrior, the SAF and the US Army conducted a bilateral air-land integrated live-firing exercise, involving US personnel from the 214th Fires Brigade Headquarters, as well as 1-14th and 2-5th Field Artillery. The two-day bilateral exercise, which ended today, involved the SAF's HIMARS and Apache AH-64Ds helicopters. The US also participated with their HIMARS, F-16 and F-18 fighter aircraft, as well as Ground Liaison and Targeting teams.

The Commander of the SAF Training and Doctrine Command Brigadier-General (BG) Lim Hock Yu and the Commanding General of the US Fires Center of Excellence and Fort Sill Major-General (MG) David Halverson were present to witness the exercise. Highlighting the value of Exercise Daring Warrior, BG Lim said, "Exercise Daring Warrior provides an excellent opportunity for the SAF to maintain the operational capabilities of its HIMARS and to conduct air-land integration training. It also opens up a channel for professional and operational exchanges between the SAF and the US Army." Likewise, MG Halverson added that "the exercise was a great environment for the soldiers to operate in a joint training situation". In addition, he said, "As we train together to develop proficiencies and certifications, we are also working to take the training to the next level. We have a great coalition team with the military forces of Singapore."


The Commander of the SAF Training and Doctrine Command Brigadier-General Lim Hock Yu (second from left) and the Commanding General of the US Fires Center of Excellence and Fort Sill Major-General David Halverson (left) interacting with SAF personnel after the live-firing exercise.

Exercise Daring Warrior 2011 is the second HIMARS live-firing exercise conducted since the SAF took delivery of the HIMARS in July 2010. The SAF and the US Army also conducted a joint live-firing exercise during the previous Exercise Daring Warrior, in November 2010. Training in the US enables the SAF to build up its operational capabilities and readiness. It also facilitates sharing of knowledge between the two armed forces. The US' support for the SAF's training in the US reflects the long-standing and excellent defence relationship between the two countries.

[buglerbilly]

See post #123 above, this is TRAJAN, Nexter's proposal for the Indian will-we/won't-we Towed Artillery programme, the non-lightweight part..............


Nexter developed a new towed howitzer, the Trajan, based on the Caesar 155/52 mm barrel. (© Nexter)

[buglerbilly]

I see India is having trouble keeping their SMERCH units working. The Russians say its the Indian's fault........you'd think the Indians would have learnt by now!

[buglerbilly]

New ammunition combines four artillery cartridges into one

November 14, 2011

By Audra Calloway, AMC

Story Highlights

• PEO Ammunition testing new 105mm artillery round.
• Provides increased combat effectiveness for all Howitzer units and reduces logistics burden.
• Replaces four existing High Explosive (HE) projectiles and two propelling charges with a single round.



PICATINNY ARSENAL, N.J. (Nov. 14, 2011) - The Program Executive Office for Ammunition has started testing a new artillery round that will provide Soldier's with superior performance as well as lighten the military logistics burden.

The 105mm M1130E1 High Explosive Pre-Formed Fragments, Base Bleed, or HE PFF BB round with the XM350 propelling charge, is a state-of-the-art cartridge that replaces four existing high- explosive projectiles and two propelling charges with a single round.

The M1130E1 is fired from the M119 howitzer and will be used against light to medium targets, such as personnel and trucks.

It provides increased combat effectiveness for all 105mm howitzer units, but will specifically aid the mission of the light forces operating in rugged terrain, such as Afghanistan.

A 105mm cartridge consists of a projectile, cartridge case, primer and propelling charge.

Currently, four different 105mm cartridges (the M1, M760, M927 and M1130), each containing one of two propelling charges (M67 and M200), are needed to engage the various targets at distances from 1.4 kilometers out to 16 kilometers, explained Jim Rutkowski, chief of the Energetics Branch with PEO Ammunition's Project Manager for Combat Ammunition Systems, or PM CAS.

Currently, all four rounds must be available at the firing position. For instance, the M760 cannot cover the closer ranges that the M1 covers.

"Until we field sufficient quantities of M1130A1, the logistic chain and our troops will deal with the four cartridges -- M1, M760, M927 and M1130," Rutkowski added.

"After that, the logistic chain and the Soldier will only have to deal with one high-explosive cartridge, the M1130A1."

By eliminating the need to have adequate supplies of four different artillery rounds on hand, Rutkowski said expectations are that the M1130E1 with the XM350 charge will reduce the logistics burden by 50 to 75 percent.

HOW IT WORKS

The M1130E1 combines the M1130 projectile with the XM350 propelling so that one projectile and propelling charge can cover all these ranges, plus additional range of out to 17 kilometers.

The XM350 propelling charge is designed by the U.S. Army Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center at Picatinny Arsenal, and St. Marks Powder, a General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems company at St. Marks, Fla.

It takes advantage of a state-of-the-art, high-performance, low-flame temperature "hybrid" propellant, which allows it to cover the minimum to maximum range requirements of both the M67 and the M200 propelling charges with a single, zoned, propelling charge.

In addition to significantly reducing the logistics burden of troops, the M1130 projectile also uses a reliable base bleed with a more aerodynamic shape to achieve similar ranges without sacrificing down-range performance.

The M1130 cartridge has shown a two-to-four-times improved capability over the M1 HE round against select targets because the warhead has better fragmentation distribution, officials said.

The M1130E1 began testing at Yuma Proving Grounds, Ariz., this summer.

When corrected to International Civil Aviation Organization, or ICAO, standard conditions (59°F, 14.7 psi, no wind), the M1130E1 cartridge demonstrated an average range of 17.8 km at top zone.

The Army is currently scheduled to "materiel release" the M1130 with the M67 propelling charge in early 2012 with integration of the M1130E1 with the XM350 propelling charge to follow.

A material release means that the item is safe for Soldiers to use; is suitable; has been fully tested to meet operational performance requirements; and can be supported logistically in the environment in which it is intended for use.

Upon completion of the M1130E1 qualification, the round will be fielded as the M1130A1 cartridge with the M350 propelling charge.

PM CAS has life-cycle responsibility for all 105mm ammunition.

The XM350 propelling charge development is being performed by ARDEC.

ARDEC also handles the integration of the cartridge case, primer, propelling charge and projectile into the M1130E1 cartridge.

[buglerbilly]

Wednesday, November 23, 2011, 10:50 AM

The Russian army will adopt a new modernized multiple rocket launcher systems, the Tornado.

Official representative of the Russian Defense Ministry Nikolai Donyushkin reports that modernized multiple rocket launcher systems of Smerch, Uragan and Grad types will be supplied to the Russian Ground Forces.


Russian MRLS Multiple Rocket Launcher System 9A52-4 Tornado

The 9A52-4 Tornado multiple launch rocket system will be probably Russia's newest universal MLRS and is designed as a lightweight and universal version of the BM-30 Smerch MLRS, dubbed 9A52-2.

The 9A52-4 Tornado is a new 300 mm multiple rocket launcher system developped, designed and manufactured by the Russian Defence Company Motovilikha Plants Coporation.

Donyushkin says, "These systems can kill targets at a much bigger distance with a higher accuracy."



Uploaded by armyreco on Nov 23, 2011

the new Russian MRLS Multiple Rocket Launcher System CV 9A52-4 Tornado (Read more http://www.armyrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&... ) technical data sheet, description, specifications, pictures.

Army Recognition online Defence & Security magazine
The only official online Daily News Eurosatory 2012
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According to Donyushkin, the Ground Forces already received missile systems Iskander-M, modernized 152-mm self-propelled howitzers 2S19 Msta-S with an automated command and aiming system and selfpropelled antitank missile systems Khrizantema-S.


2S19 Msta-SRussian army self-propelled howitzer

[buglerbilly]

Lockheed Martin Tests New Scalable Warhead on GMLRS-Plus Rocket

(Source: Lockheed Martin; issued November 30, 2011)

DALLAS --- Lockheed Martin today tested a new Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System-Plus (GMLRS+) 'scalable effects' warhead, which enables users to select the range of the warhead's detonation power depending on the target.

"The 'scalable effects' warhead was set to low-yield prior to the flight and scored a direct hit on the target," said Scott Arnold, vice president of precision fires in Lockheed Martin's Missiles and Fire Control business. "The performance of both the GMLRS+ rocket and the scalable effects warhead were outstanding, validating our continued investment in evolving the proven GMLRS weapon system to address current and future threats."

This test at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., was the second of two GMLRS+ launches scheduled for 2011. In early August, a GMLRS+ round successfully completed a 120-kilometer mission, an improvement in range of approximately 50 kilometers over the current GMLRS round. Both tests were internally funded by Lockheed Martin and Aerojet and were supported by the U.S. Army's Precision Fires Program Office.

Aerojet, a world-recognized producer of missile and space propulsion systems and defense armaments, was selected for this test phase as the GMLRS+ warhead supplier after an evaluation and selection process.

GMLRS+ is a Lockheed Martin internal research and development program to upgrade the combat-proven GMLRS Unitary system, and integrate new capabilities into the existing GMLRS guidance/navigation package and airframe. It will accommodate various warheads, and will operate seamlessly within the current High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and MLRS M270A1 launcher force structure. Lockheed Martin is the prime contractor on the GMLRS program.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 126,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation's 2010 sales from continuing operations were $45.8 billion.

(ends)

Successful GMLRS+ Rocket Flight Test Demonstrates New Aerojet Scalable Effects Warhead

(Source: Aerojet; issued November 30, 2011)

SACRAMENTO, Calif. --- Aerojet, a GenCorp company, announced that its new scalable effects warhead was successfully demonstrated on Lockheed Martin's Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System-Plus (GMLRS+) rocket today during a flight test at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. This new warhead provides the user the ability to select a range of detonation yields depending on the target.

The warhead was set to low-yield output prior to the 49-kilometer (30-mile) flight and scored a direct hit on the target. The test demonstrated the new warhead's ability to control blast effect with an affordable design.

"This successful flight test represents a significant advancement in capability for the warfighter," said Aerojet's Vice President for Tactical Systems, John Myers. "We continue to invest in affordability and capability improvements for the GMLRS program with our Lockheed Martin partner."

The test at White Sands Missile Range was the second of two Lockheed Martin/Aerojet-funded, Precision Fires Program Office-supported GMLRS+ launches planned for 2011. On Aug. 9, a GMLRS+ round with Aerojet's improved production motor successfully completed a 120-kilometer mission, an improvement in range of approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) over the current GMLRS round.

Aerojet is a world-recognized aerospace and defense leader principally serving the missile and space propulsion, defense and armaments markets. GenCorp is a leading technology-based manufacturer of aerospace and defense products and systems with a real estate segment that includes activities related to the entitlement, sale, and leasing of the company's excess real estate assets.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

M119A2 Howitzer Upgrade to Provide Quicker Firepower

(Source: US Army; issued December 6, 2011)



PICATINNY ARSENAL, N.J. --- Soldiers are one step closer to receiving a digitized M119A2 howitzer that will make it possible for them to start firing rounds and evade return fire quicker.

The M119A2 is a lightweight 105mm howitzer that provides suppressive and protective fires for Infantry Brigade Combat Teams.

PEO Ammunition employees, with help from the Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center, known as ARDEC, recently shipped four M119A2s to various installations for safety testing.

The upgraded M119A2 will be equipped with a digital fire control system that includes an inertial navigation unit, guided-precision system technology and other features that will give the weapon the ability to determine its precise geographical location on its own.

Safety testing ensures that the weapon system is still safe for Soldiers use after the assembly and integration of the fire control system onto the M119A2.

"One benefit of the digital fire control system is improved survivability because it reduces emplacement and displacement times," said Keith Gooding, Project Manager Towed Artillery Systems for PEO Ammunition.

"Howitzers are indirect fire weapons, which means you can't always see what you're shooting at. The M119A2 currently has glass and iron optical sites on the weapon that are used to survey and find the howitzer's location."

Using optical sites usually takes troops about 10 minutes to survey and assess their location, aim, and then fire the first round. However, the digitized M119A2 includes a GPS-aided Inertial Navigation Unit (INU) that knows where the weapon is at all times, so optical sites are not needed to determine location. The INU allows the Soldier to ready the howitzer and fire the first round in two to three minutes.

Gooding compared the INU to a GPS navigation unit in a car, only more accurate. "Your Garmin always knows where you are and where you're going -- the INU does the same thing. You drop the howitzer in and it knows where it is, so you can fire right away.

"Ten minutes may not seem that long, but when someone's shooting at you, 10 minutes is a big deal," he said of the infantrymen who rely on M119A2 protective fire during combat.

In addition to assisting infantry troops quickly, the digital fire-control system will help the M119A2 cannoneers avoid enemy fire, allowing them to "Shoot and Scoot."

"We have radar systems to detect incoming fire, and the enemy has radar systems as well to see where incoming fire is coming from," said Robert Nitzsche, a former lead on the M119 and a current PEO Ammunition G3/5/7 Program Management Engineer.

"In the past we had to continue pushing out rounds to support infantrymen because it would take too long to move the howitzer, re-survey, re-site and begin to fire. With the digitized fire control, artillerymen can quickly fire some rounds and then move to a new location and quickly begin firing rounds again," Nitzsche added. "Because they will be able to quickly relocate, this can help them avoid return fire.

"We've found with the M777A2 155mm Howitzer, having the digital control has changed artillery and how artillerymen support the fight," Gooding said. “With the ability to aim more accurately, there's less human interaction and human interpretation because Soldiers use a computer to tell them where the cannon tube should be pointing."



SOFTWARE:

The software development and integration of the digital fire control system onto the M119A2 was conducted in-house at ARDEC, thus eliminating the need for an outside prime contractor.

Ninety percent of the software used on the M119A2 was taken from the M777A2. This provides useful standardization between the Army's three howitzers, the M777A2, the Paladin self-propelled 155mm Howitzer and now the M119A2.

"The Paladin software was developed and is now maintained here at Picatinny, the same holds for the M777A2 Howitzer. Now, the software associated with the digitized M119A2 will also claim its roots at Picatinny. The same government lab will have responsibility for the software on all three Army artillery pieces, something that our User, TCM-BCT has been pushing for," Gooding said.

Maj. Jesse Taylor, the user representative for the M119A2 at Fort Sill, has been working with Picatinny to ensure that the upgrades meet user requirements.

"The M119A2 is the last howitzer to be digitalized, so what that tells me from a battalion commander's view is that I don't have to worry about a guy coming from a system that is not digitized. It's less time to train," Taylor said.

"If you're training on howitzers that share the same base code, the difference in training requirements across platforms is minimized and the flexibility of the artillerymen to move from platform to platform is simplified and increased," Gooding added.

Using similar software also made the upgrades less expensive because separate development efforts and teams were not needed. "Since we reused 90 percent of the software associated with the M777A2, we saved about $7 million developing the code," Gooding noted.



INTEGRATION:

Andy Mcfadzean was the ARDEC Systems Engineer who oversaw the integration of the digital fire control components onto the four M119 earmarked for Integration Testing. His team was responsible for developing and validating the Modification Work Order (MWO) which documents a repeatable process for integrating the digital fire control onto the howitzer.

Facilities in Building 92 at Picatinny were converted into a maintenance type environment where the howitzers, the digital fire control equipment and the integration documentation were all housed for a three-week period.

During this time, the ARDEC engineering community transformed the M119A2 production howitzers into digitized weapons. The detailed, step by step sequence of events required to integrate the digital fire control onto the howitzers were proven out by the team at ARDEC and documented in the MWO.

The end result is howitzers ready for Integration Testing and a validated MWO which will be used as the baselining document to digitize all M119A2s once testing is completed.

"There was a lot of engineering rigor used to not only develop the hardware integration plan, but also to develop the repeatable production processes that are used to integrate the digital fire control onto the weapon," Gooding added.

WAY AHEAD:

The program is currently funded to retrofit 603 weapons with the digital fire-control system. "We've still got a lot of work to do," said Joe Lipinski, Product Manager for the M119. "We have started safety tests in October, and that will allow us to go to operational tests next June. Then , we will go into Type Classification and Material Release this time next year, which would allow us to go into production and retrofit the weapons."

For safety testing, howitzers will be sent to:

-- Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz., where engineers will oversee air-drop tests and firing tests.
-- Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., for towing and transportability testing.
-- White Sands Missile Range, N.M., for electromagnetic interference testing.
-- Dugway Proving Ground, Utah, for nuclear, biological and chemical testing to ensure that the weapon can be exposed to chemicals, cleaned off and still be safe to use.

After safety testing, operational testing begins. Soldiers will fire more than 9,000 rounds. PEO Ammunition is to begin fielding the digitized M119A2 in early 2013.

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

SELEX Galileo wins UK artillery gun targeting contract

08 December 2011 - 16:04 by the Shephard News Team



SELEX Galileo has announced that UK Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) Artillery Systems Team has issued it a contract to upgrade the current Layers Display and Control Unit (LDCU) of the UK’s L118 Light Gun.

The LDCU is the main man-machine interface of the LINAPS system, a self-contained, gun-mounted navigation, pointing and weapon management system that is already in active service with the British Army. LINAPS is a battle-proven system enabling rapid and accurate artillery deployment in all weather conditions, day and night while making minimal demands on the users. The contract is worth €5M (£4.3M).

According to the company, the upgrade involves replacing the existing LINAPS interface with a new 10 inch display. Key features of the system include a touch-sensitive, electro-luminescent display, powerful processing for fire control and ballistic calculations and the capability to interface with a full range of additional sensors and equipment. The system provides a navigation and fire control capability with minimal hardware content within a unique single box solution.

LINAPS has been sold to customers including the UK, Canada, Thailand and Malaysia and was successfully deployed in current operations in Afghanistan as well as in Iraq during the second Gulf war. It confers a wide range of operational advantages, including continuous and accurate 3D self location with and without GPS and continuous determination and display of gun barrel direction and elevation.

[buglerbilly]

Thursday, December 15, 2011, 03:04 PM

First export licence for the Finnish Patria Nemo 120mm mortar carrier vehicle.

The Council of State of Finland granted an export licence for 36 Patria Nemo mortar systems. These had been selected as one of the weapon systems for the General Dynamics Land Systems vehicle, as part of the US Government Foreign Military Sales (FMS) project.


Finnish Patria Nemo 120mm mortar carrier

With a value of over €100 million, the contract will have a major employment effect for Patria and its Finnish subcontractors. Earlier this year Patria has already delivered six mortar systems to General Dynamics for testing. The actual deliveries will take place between 2012 and 2013.

Patria is the global market leader in turreted mortar systems. The project will provide an excellent reference for Finnish know-how.
”Obtaining an export license is a major step forward for this technology. It is also an important waypoint in efforts to market Finnish mortar systems internationally", states Seppo Seppälä, President of Patria Land Services, emphasising the importance of the project.

The Patria Nemo is a modern mortar system featuring excellent signature management and ballistic protection .The United Arab Emirates Navy has already chosen the Patria Nemo.

[buglerbilly]

Finland Approves EUR 100 Mln Arms Shipment to Saudi Arabia

(Source: STT Finnish Government news; published Dec. 15, 2011)

The Finnish government has granted an export licence for 36 Patria mortar systems to be shipped to Saudi Arabia, the government-controlled arms maker said in a statement Thursday.

Patria added that, together with 1,440 ammunition storage tubes and spare parts, the deal was worth 100 million euros.

Four ministers, including Foreign Minister Erkki Tuomioja (soc dem), voted against granting the permit.

A number of human rights groups and parties have raised concern about the arms deal.

Heidi Hautala (green), the international development minister, and Ville Niinistö (green), the environment minister, condemned the permit, saying Saudi Arabia was a dictatorship where political parties were not tolerated, people tortured by the authorities and killed for practising their religion.

"By exporting arms to Saudi Arabia, Finland gives a signal to the effect that human rights violations and dictatorship are acceptable courses of action that Finland is ready to support through arms deals," Hautala and Niinistö said.

"Saudi Arabia is considered to be one of the most undemocratic countries in the world," the Left Alliance Youth said in a statement.

"The country is a theocracy and a dictatorship in which party activity is banned."

-ends-

[buglerbilly]

Ares

A Defense Technology Blog

Dutch Army Restructures Artillery

Posted by Nicholas Fiorenza at 12/16/2011 1:08 PM CST

The Dutch army's 11 Afdeling Rijdende Artillerie (Horse Artillery Detachment) was disbanded Dec. 14 with the symbolic firing of the last shot by a Panzerhaubitze (PzH) 2000NL armored howitzer. This leaves the Dutch army with two artillery detachments each comprising two batteries of PzH 2000NLs.


Netherlands Ministry of Defense photo

Opportunity for a rapid and cheap buy for the Australian Army? They have 40 units available..........

These two units will be included in the restructuring of Dutch army artillery into a single unit with three PzH 2000NL batteries. There will be a 50% reduction in the current 550 artillerymen and PzH 2000NLs will be reduced from 24 to 18.

[buglerbilly]

India: Howitzer Buyback on Track

By VIVEK RAGHUVANSHI

Published: 16 Dec 2011 14:24

Will they, won't they, I have absolutely no bloody idea! The Indian Army is, however, putting serious pressure on the Government to piss or get off the pot..............

NEW DELHI - India is going ahead with the purchase of M777 Ultra Light Howitzers from the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems, Defence Ministry officials said, refuting media reports here that that the project has run into "rough weather."

One ministry official said the $650 million, 145-gun deal is on track and will proceed quickly.

In a press statement, Defence Minister A.K. Antony said user trials of the gun have been completed, with maintainability testing and an evaluation by the Director General of Quality Assurance still to come.

Antony told the Indian parliament on Dec. 12 that India is looking at buying the guns through the U.S. government's Foreign Military Sales program.

The procurement was stalled after a report on the trials was released, but the program is back on track now, Antony said.

"The field evaluation trial report of the guns was a confidential document. Four pages of draft field trial report were received in an anonymous envelope by the Army headquarters. An enquiry in the matter is underway," the minister said.

Army officials want the howitzers quickly to boost firepower in high-altitude battlegrounds. A 2008 attempt to buy the guns was canceled in late 2009 after bidder Singapore Technologies was alleged to have been involved in kickbacks. In early 2010, Army officials gave the nod to the other bidder, BAE Systems. Singapore Technologies responded early this year with a lawsuit meant to stay the deal with BAE. The lawsuit is still in the hearing stage.

[buglerbilly]

Army Hits Jackpot with Triple 7

(Source: U.S Army; issued December 15, 2011)

FORT SILL, Okla. --- The new M777 lightweight field artillery piece has only seen action since May 2007, when it began combat operations in Iraq; less than a year later Soldiers were firing the M777 in Afghanistan.

With the Army seeking increased strategic mobility, the M777 tipped the scales in favor of being the artillery piece to meet this requirement. Weighing in at slightly over 9,000 pounds, the new towed artillery piece was a dramatic improvement to its predecessor -- the 15,000-pound M198. Titanium alloys are the foundation of this lightweight howitzer and do not compromise its strength when compared to heavier artillery built with steel.

But, this isn't just a lighter weight weapon system, because technology changed too providing the new generation artillery piece with a greater ability to deliver rounds on target.

"When the Triple Seven was being developed collateral damage was kind of a minor issue, then over the last few years with operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, collateral damage increased in importance," said Boyd Dastrup, field artillery historian. "The virtue of the M777 is it can fire a futuristic family of GPS guided munitions giving the artillery piece superior accuracy."

This accuracy comes in part from an advanced field artillery tactical data system. When combined with precision munitions, such as the GPS guided Excalibur, the system computes all data to deliver the munition on target from just about any direction, he added.

The M777 is also easy on the operating crew as it uses an automated firing system like the Paladin that doesn't require manual gunnery work. With the M198, cannon crew members initiated their firing by surveying the landscape to determine the exact spot they were firing from. This time-intensive work is no longer required as the M777 can determine its own location and deliver fires accurately.

"In many ways, the M777 is advanced technology here and now," said Dastrup. "Based on what it's been doing the last few years in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is the field artillery piece of the present and future."

Dastrup added military planners project a 10- to 15-year life span for the M777. Technology was driving change yet again as its intended replacement was projected to be the non-line-of-sight cannon. This weapon along with the nonline-of-sight launch system, which he referred to as "rockets in a box," were high-expense items and fell to congressional budget cutting measures.

Still, the Army will hardly be burdened with a short-lived weapon. The M777 was designed and produced with the most-current technology available and may be upgraded as improvements become reality.

Along with its technological advances, the M777 fits better with an Army which may see a reduction in manning. Unlike the M198, which took nine Soldiers to operate, the Triple 7 can function with only five.

"Years ago (Maj.) General (Fred) Marty, (Field Artillery Center and Fort Sill commanding general) said, 'Perfect is the enemy of good. We're always after perfect,' which means it takes so long to get something out with all the bugs ironed out," said Dastrup. With the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq calling for updated U.S. firepower and munitions, the importance was to get the M777 and Excalibur to the field.

The Army chose to field the two, fully functional, but not to the high standard for which they were developed. Those standards will likely come with time and further testing.

"Based on video footage, it's an impressive weapon and has been rated as a very good artillery piece," said Dastrup. "The Army has a great artillery piece for its needs now as well as whatever the future may hold."

-ends-

[Milne Bay]

Ares

A Defense Technology Blog

Dutch Army Restructures Artillery

Posted by Nicholas Fiorenza at 12/16/2011 1:08 PM CST

The Dutch army's 11 Afdeling Rijdende Artillerie (Horse Artillery Detachment) was disbanded Dec. 14 with the symbolic firing of the last shot by a Panzerhaubitze (PzH) 2000NL armored howitzer. This leaves the Dutch army with two artillery detachments each comprising two batteries of PzH 2000NLs.


Netherlands Ministry of Defense photo

Opportunity for a rapid and cheap buy for the Australian Army? They have 40 units available..........

These two units will be included in the restructuring of Dutch army artillery into a single unit with three PzH 2000NL batteries. There will be a 50% reduction in the current 550 artillerymen and PzH 2000NLs will be reduced from 24 to 18.

rapid and cheap buy for the Australian Army?

Is there such a thing?
This programme appears to have been progressing like a tortoise traversing the La Brea tarpits.
Make a decision already!

[Gubler, A.]

The LAND 17 SPG buy has never been driven by availability. The Dutch had surplus Pzh2000s, the Germans too and the Koreans mass produce the K9. Its just that none of these guns as they are now meet the Army's spec (no gun does). Since they are not integrated with AFATDS their utility in the current Arty Regt would be very low.

[Milne Bay]

The LAND 17 SPG buy has never been driven by availability. The Dutch had surplus Pzh2000s, the Germans too and the Koreans mass produce the K9. Its just that none of these guns as they are now meet the Army's spec (no gun does). Since they are not integrated with AFATDS their utility in the current Arty Regt would be very low.

Are there any guns in the pipeline that will meet the Army's spec?
If not, then are the specs a pipe-dream?

[JimWH]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't at least part of the problem that Government weren't willing to sign off on the project unless the decision was made based on a competitive tender, and the Germans are being stick-in-the-muds about integrating AFATDS onto PzH2000. Which leaves DMO in the sticky position of having to report that it has two guns on offer which probably meet the requirement, but in the case of one of those guns it can't define the project risk or cost in getting it all the way there.
That being said, the speed of the SPG project is glacial.

And since we're on the subject, does anybody have any idea of how Plan Beersheba will affect the artillery? Are we going to be 'hybridizing' the regiments and turning each of them into a mixed SPG/towed regiments (which I'd think might work given the de-linking of the guns from the C4ISR components of the artillery regiments, and the adoption of a single robust [and input neutral] digital FCS across the artillery) or are we going to continue with the existing LAND 17 plan of a single SPG regiment and 2 towed regiments?

[buglerbilly]

The LAND 17 SPG buy has never been driven by availability. The Dutch had surplus Pzh2000s, the Germans too and the Koreans mass produce the K9. Its just that none of these guns as they are now meet the Army's spec (no gun does). Since they are not integrated with AFATDS their utility in the current Arty Regt would be very low.

This is a problem? WHY? Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS) is part of ABCS (Army Battle Command System), at least in the US Army it is, I would have thought ours similar?


ABCS combines six packages into a single system:

1.The Maneuver Control System (MCS) allows the operator to define routes and view overlays to provide situational awareness. MCS is being phased out and replaced with "Lightning", an ABCS enabled Flash/Java Program that uses the Web Browser interface. It allows users to publish products from CPOF without using the BCS (Battle Command Server) PASS (Publish and Subscribe Service) Server, making Lightning more flexible as it can be used on any Secret Internet Protocol Router Network (SIPRnet-System) as there is no interface software required besides your web browser (Typically IE 8.0 or higher, not compatible with Opera or Firefox at this time)

2.The Air and Missile Defense Workstations (AMDWS) provide soldiers with an Air Defense picture, and supports the Surface Launched Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (SLAM-RAAM) Air Defense Artillery (ADA) system by providing an automated defense planning capability for deployed units.

3.The Battle Command Sustainment & Support System (BCS3) integrates multiple data sources into one program and provides commanders with a visual layout of battlefield logistics.

4.The All Source Analysis System (ASAS) can analyze incidents and help determine the patterns of Improvised Explosive Device-related incidents. A commander can determine locations that are typical for IED attacks, so that they know to warn their soldiers of such a threat.

5.The Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS) plan and execute fires during each phase of action, whether a deliberate attack or defensive operation. AFATDS is presently fielded to all Active Component Army and Marine Corps units. About 90% of the National Guard has been fielded. AFATDS is installed on large-deck amphibious assault vessels of the United States Navy.

6.The Force XXI Battle Command, Brigade & Below / Blue Force Tracking (FBCB2/BFT) system uses satellite and terrestrial communications technology to track and display friendly vehicles and aircraft that appear on a computer screen as blue icons over a topographical map or satellite image of the ground. Commanders and Soldiers can add red icons that show up as enemy on the screen, and are simultaneously broadcast to all the other FBCB2/BFT users on the battlefield. There are about 15,000 FBCB2/BFT systems in use today.

7.The Tactical Airspace Integration System (TAIS) is an automated system for battlefield airspace management.

So, in essence, its part of an American driven battlefield control and data system YET the two SPG systems WE chose to short-list are Korean and German............HELLO! Planet Earth..........WTF!

[buglerbilly]

Are there any guns in the pipeline that will meet the Army's spec?
If not, then are the specs a pipe-dream?

The gun has nothing to do with it, its the data and fire control systems that attach to it that are driving/stalling this..............

[Gubler, A.]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't at least part of the problem that Government weren't willing to sign off on the project unless the decision was made based on a competitive tender, and the Germans are being stick-in-the-muds about integrating AFATDS onto PzH2000. Which leaves DMO in the sticky position of having to report that it has two guns on offer which probably meet the requirement, but in the case of one of those guns it can't define the project risk or cost in getting it all the way there.
That being said, the speed of the SPG project is glacial.

KMW were never strongly motivated to bid for LAND 17 because they rightly saw it as too much bother and their product likely being sourced from surplus equipments. Samsung on the other hand were super dead keen. But its all about the battle management system and Raytheon I think were contracted to develop an Australianised version of AFATDS but I’m not sure if this included the all important 155mm L52 capability for AFATDS.


And since we're on the subject, does anybody have any idea of how Plan Beersheba will affect the artillery? Are we going to be 'hybridizing' the regiments and turning each of them into a mixed SPG/towed regiments (which I'd think might work given the de-linking of the guns from the C4ISR components of the artillery regiments, and the adoption of a single robust [and input neutral] digital FCS across the artillery) or are we going to continue with the existing LAND 17 plan of a single SPG regiment and 2 towed regiments?

The plan is for hybrid like the ACR with each fires battery having a single troop of four SPGs and two troops of four M777s each. Of course like the ACR a hybrid Arty Regt is still 10 years or more off even under Beersheba plans so anything can happen between now and then. Like cost cutting and having all the SPGs in a single fires battery (and all the tanks in a single regiment). The guns are now just a battery no longer a regiment. The rest of the regiment is the OP batteries. Interestingly under Beersheba and LAND 400 one OP battery per regiment will be mechanised in a LAND 400 IFV version. Which is pretty cool.

[geof]

... It,s been a very long time, but does artillery still work something like this .. Foward observer identifies target, calls in co-ords to command post, after quick calculation, bearings, elevation etc. relayed to guns, single round fired, foward observer calls in corrections .. then blast away 12 rounds or what ever from each gun ... ??

P.S. I know it dosn't .. just wanting to know how it is done these days .. (in laymen terms please) .... :-)

[Gubler, A.]

... It,s been a very long time, but does artillery still work something like this .. Foward observer identifies target, calls in co-ords to command post, after quick calculation, bearings, elevation etc. relayed to guns, single round fired, foward observer calls in corrections .. then blast away 12 rounds or what ever from each gun ... ??

The first key difference in digital artillery fires is because of GPS/INS there is no need for survey data and adjust fires. The FO is locating the target with a laser rangefinder integrated with a GPS and digital compass so provides the target with a precise geolocation. So the first rounds will inordinately be fire for effect.

The second key difference is the direct relationship between a FO and a gun position has been eroded thanks to computerised battle management. Rather than talk direct to his guns the FO will put the fire mission request to the Joint Fires Coordination Centre who will use AFATDS to allocate the most suitable fires asset to provide the fires solution. The JFCC/AFATDS will also manage the various gun troops and other fires assets under their control to make sure that fires are available to all the various supported units when they need it.

The next difference is in the nature of the fires provided which is oft very different due to the counter insurgency ROEs of the mission. But if the gloves come off then the old school denial of manoeuvre to the enemy comes back into play supplanted by precision guided munitions and sensor fused munitions to provide far more effective destructive fires when needed.

[geof]

The first key difference in digital artillery fires is because of GPS/INS there is no need for survey data and adjust fires. The FO is locating the target with a laser rangefinder integrated with a GPS and digital compass so provides the target with a precise geolocation. So the first rounds will inordinately be fire for effect.

The second key difference is the direct relationship between a FO and a gun position has been eroded thanks to computerised battle management. Rather than talk direct to his guns the FO will put the fire mission request to the Joint Fires Coordination Centre who will use AFATDS to allocate the most suitable fires asset to provide the fires solution. The JFCC/AFATDS will also manage the various gun troops and other fires assets under their control to make sure that fires are available to all the various supported units when they need it.

The next difference is in the nature of the fires provided which is oft very different due to the counter insurgency ROEs of the mission. But if the gloves come off then the old school denial of manoeuvre to the enemy comes back into play supplanted by precision guided munitions and sensor fused munitions to provide far more effective destructive fires when needed.

.. Thanks for that Abe ..