Precision-guided bombs

Precision-guided bombs

BY DAVID DONALD

Barij Dynamics is showing a range of precision-guided air-launched munitions as part of the EDIC display (Stand 05-A05). The enterprise, which is now a joint venture between EDIC and Denel Dynamics, was previously known as Tawazun Dynamics, but changed its name following its switch to EDIC.

The company has created a range of precision munitions that are in service with the UAE Air Force and Air Defence. The first weapon produced by the joint venture was the Al Tariq, based on the Denel Umbani. This is a kit that turns a 125lb Mk 81 or 250lb Mk 82 unguided bomb into a precision weapon with GNSS/ INS (Global Navigation Satellite System/Inertial Navigation System) guidance. Dual-mode guidance systems have been developed with either imaging infrared (with automatic target recognition) or semi-active laser (SAL) seekers combined with the GNSS/INS system. The weapon comes in a standard Al Tariq-S configuration that has a range of around 40km, or the Al Tariq-LR that adds a large fold-out wing kit that extends the range to around 120km. Barij Dynamics also produces the Sejeel bomb kit that adds GNSS/INS and/or SAL guidance to Mk 81 and Mk 82 bombs. Like Al Tariq, it can be programmed with differing attack profiles, and has off-axis and moving target attack capability. The company has also produced a strap-on kit (pictured) for the larger 2,000lb Mk 84 weapon with GNSS/INS and SAL guidance systems.

Quantity and quality

BY CHRISTOPHER F FOSS

Locally based Streit Group has a major presence at IDEX (Stand CP-219) and at NAVDEX (OW-B). More than 20 wheeled armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs) are being shown, which range from light patrol vehicles up to Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) type vehicles. Some 14 of its vehicles are taking part in the mobility demonstration, plus its Triton-980 armoured boat.

During IDEX, the company announced a contract from an undisclosed country in the Middle East for the supply of 81 AFVs – a mix of its Spartan Assault armoured personnel carrier (APC) and the Cobra Light Armoured Multirole Vehicle – with deliveries to take place in four weeks.

Commenting on this latest contract award, Guerman Goutorov, chairman of the Streit Group, said: “Streit’s continuous support to military and police forces is the main reason for earning a reputation as a trusted and reliable partner to governments worldwide. I can say confidently that Streit Group is not only growing successfully but also gaining massively most of the market share from the armoured vehicles industry, especially in the Middle East and African region.”

New vehicles on show include the MYL (4x4) and the Shaman (8x8, pictured).

The main Streit AFV production facility is in the United Arab Emirates, which has the capacity to deliver 400 vehicles a month. Some 20,000 vehicles have been sold to date.