Advanced soldier weapons training

Advanced soldier weapons training

BY DAVID DONALD

Meggitt Training Systems is a US-based division of the UKheadquartered Meggitt plc. The division specialises in integrated live-fire and virtual weapons training, and has recently expanded with the acquisition of FATS and Caswell technologies. At IDEX, the division is displaying some of its training solutions.

At its exhibit in the US Pavilion (Stand 02-B31), Meggitt is showing a range of live-fire training products, such as a dual pop-up Turner target. This system is a 360° turning target that can display friend or foe silhouettes and incorporates LOMAH (location of miss and hit) technology. The XWT ProImage video projector and camera system is also on display. This attaches to the Meggitt XWT target carrier and can be transported downrange to project various target images on to white paper or cardboard targets. Finally, Meggitt’s GranTrap is being shown. This is a soft media bullet trap for granulated rubber bullets, capturing them mostly intact. As well as minimising impact noise, the GranTrap averts the dangers of back-splatter and ricochet.

Meggitt is also exhibiting as part of the International Golden Group display (Stand 04-C20), where the FATS 100MIL simulation training system (pictured) is being highlighted. Selected by the US Army and Marine Corps, and by Australia and the UK, FATS 100MIL introduces features such as advanced 3D game engine marksmanship, enhanced diagnostics with intelligent automatic coaching, and collective training. The system on show at IDEX is complemented by a selection of wireless BlueFire and convertible BlueRail weapons, including M4 carbine, AK-47 rifle, Glock G17 pistol and an 81mm mortar.

Grenades launched from light UAVs

BY SAM J BASCH

UAE-based International Golden Group (IGG, Stand 04-C20), in conjunction with the South African defence company Rippel Effect Systems, has developed a battlefield solution to safely and accurately launch 40mm grenades from a light UAV.

According to IGG deputy executive officer Khalifa Al Balooshi, its long-standing collaboration with Rippel Effect has led them to collaboration on the development and manufacture of the innovative 40mm DLP3 (pictured) and DLP6 drone launcher platform, with three and six fixed barrels respectively. The 40mm drone-mounted multishot grenade launcher (MGL) provides small tactical teams with the ability to accurately engage out-of-sight targets.

“This configuration is a sensible adaptation from Rippel’s proven and successful flagship 40mm handheld launcher, designed for a specifically identified tactical requirement,” he explained. “Mounted vertically underneath the drone, and fitted with an electronic trigger mechanism, the DLP3 or DLP6 enables the device to be fired with ease, accurately and safely, with maximum effect on the target. The DLP3 or DLP6 can be mounted on various drone platforms.” Rippel Effect undertook the design and development of the 40mm launcher, which IGG will then integrate and commission in its UAE facilities.

Each of the removable barrels has one round of 40x46mm low velocity or less-lethal ammunition and can be fired individually, in sequence or together.