SP's Land Forces Issue 1 - 2019

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February-March 2019

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ROUNDUP

The ONLY magazine in Asia-Pacific dedicated to Land Forces

>> EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

In This Issue Page 4 Calibrated Modernisation Strategy Model for Indian Army

PhotographS: Indian Army

Lt General Kanwal Kumar, DG, Army Aviation with Light Combat Helicopter; (inset) DG in the cockpit of LCH.

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

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

Vishal Thapar & Lt General P.C. Katoch (Retd) Page 10 India, Israel Trust Jointly Developed Air Defence Solutions One of the largest air defence acquisition programmes in India is MRSAM, jointly developed by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) which provides a networked, integrated naval and land-based air defence capability against maneuvering aircraft, UAVs and cruise missiles.

SP’s Correspondent Page 11 Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates India’s First Private Sector Armoured Complex Currently manufacturing K9 Vajra-T howitzers, L&T seeks to make tanks & combat vehicles at this facility.

Vishal Thapar Page 12 Personal Protection Technology Trijicon offers a vast range of proven sighting systems which can be used for varying degree of security threats.

Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd) Page 14 Trijicon Combat Optics The ACOG is designed to be extremely durable and reliable. It combines traditional, precise distance marksmanship with Close Quarter Battle (CQB) speed.

Many variants include a bullet drop compensated (BDC) reticle.

Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd) Plus News in Brief

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‘LCH is likely to be inducted into the Army Aviation Corps in the immediate future’ Interaction of Jayant Baranwal, Editor-in-Chief of SP’s Land Forces with the Director General of Army Aviation Lt General Kanwal Kumar 1/2019 SP’s Land Forces

1

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E D I T O R I A L

>> EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

The first issue of SP’s Land ­Forces coincides with the Aero India Show 2019 thus the lead article is an exclusive interview with Director General Army Aviation Lt General Kanwal Kumar in which he mentions the role and the in-

tegration of the third dimensional capability in future wars. Accordingly, the ongoing capability development of Army Aviation is aimed at providing integral reconnaissance and surveillance, intimate tactical lift and direct application of fire power across the full spectrum of operations. This is followed by a conceptual article on force modernisation in which the author suggests that it should include the principles of retaining the capacity and readiness to accomplish combat superiority, expand new capabilities to cope up with the emerging threats, harnessing joint force capabilities and optimising force mix through a combined arms force application.

SP’s Land Forces (SP’s): What is the vision for the development of the Army Aviation Corps in line with the Long Term Perspective Planning?

Director General of Army Aviation (DGAA): In the future battle space, major asymmetry against enemy combat forces can be achieved by integrated employment of third dimensional capability. Accordingly, the ongoing capability development of Army Aviation is aimed at providing integral reconnaissance and surveillance, intimate tactical lift and direct application of fire power across the full spectrum of operations. However, while doing so, operational dynamics of the field formations have also been considered to ensure theatre specific profiling of aviation assets.

SP’s: Doctrinally, is more space being created for integral air elements for futuristic war fighting by the Army? If yes, how?

DGAA: Army Aviation is not merely the air component of the Army but an integral part of the Combined Arms Team. Its primary mission is to fight the land battle and support ground operations as a manoeuvre arm of ground forces in the Tactical Battle Area (TBA). The only way to realise this intent is to have dedicated integral Aviation assets under the Field Force Commander. Towards this aim, there is a definite doctrinal shift in profiling of dedicated utility and combat Aviation assets with the induction of ALH, ALH-WSI and the impending induction of LCH and Apache AH-64E, which will be integral to the Army as against the erstwhile capability of Army Aviation which was restricted to Reconnaissance and Observation tasks alone.

SP’s: What is the status of the procurement process for the Ka-226 Light Utility Helicopters? What are the acquisition time lines?

DGAA: The technical evaluation of the Ka226T proposal is under process. Thereafter, the cost negotiations would be carried out culminating in signing of the contract.

SP’s: By when is the Chetak/Cheetah fleet expected to be phased out? What are the measures being taken to ensure the flight worthiness and life extension of this fleet?

DGAA: The Cheetah/Chetak helicopter will be phased out based on induction of Ka226T and LUH manufactured by the Hindustan Aeronatics Limited (HAL). Timely servicing and overhauls are being carried out to ensure the availability of the helicopters for all operations. Maintenance and overhaul procedures of the fleet are well established.

Every aircraft that is flying is fully airworthy. Management of spares remains work at hand and induction of replacement helicopters will ease out this challenge.

SP’s: How is the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) performing and what is its status of induction?

One of the largest air defence acquisition programmes in India is Medium Range SAM (MRSAM), being developed jointly by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) which will meet the air defence requirements of the army, navy and the air force thus a write up is included in this issue.

There has been a major traction towards filling up critical voids in infantry weapons thus there is an article on small arms in which the author reviews the causes of current voids and twist and turns taken to start the process of filling them up. Infantry should be given the best assault rifle and CQB carbine specially

when the terrorists have access to best weapons and technology.

Modern technology has enabled the military to fight during the night, almost as it was day thus all modern armies are equipped with night fighting capability. Thus there are articles on night vision devices and the latest sighting systems, starting with Thermal image (TI) scopes where the author briefly explains the technology involved and reviews the systems available.

The indigenous effort in this is led by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) who have established BEL Optronic Devices Ltd. (BELOP) to manufacture and supply these systems to Indian Armed

DGAA: The ‘Dhruv’ (ALH) is steadily emerging as the Aviation workhorse and force multiplier of the Indian Army. The helicopter has proved its mettle in all types of terrain obtained in the country ranging from the super high altitude areas to the extremely hot and dusty environs of the Western sector. The helicopter has also pitched in during natural calamities in India and Nepal providing relief to the affected populace. Dhruv has been successfully inducted into the field formations and is performing all its envisaged operational roles.

SP’s: How is the armed version of ALH (Rudra) performing and what is the status of its induction?

DGAA: Rudra helicopters are presently being exploited in various terrains and are getting integrated into the operational role of the Indian Army. The helicopter would provide the much needed integral aerial combat fire power.

SP’s: What are the aggregate final numbers for the Dhruv in AAC plans?

DGAA: Army Aviation Corps is planned to have a dedicated utility helicopter fleet of more than 100 Dhruv helicopters to support the operations of Indian Army and provide tactical lift capability to all the field formations.

SP’s: You had recently flown the HAL’s Light Combat Helicopter. What are your views on its capability?

DGAA: The Light Combat Helicopter is a combat helicopter designed for dedicated combat roles at par with contemporary attack helicopters in its weight class. It has been tested in the varied terrains obtained in the country.

Army Aviation test pilots are closely involved in the development of the helicopter. LCH is likely to be inducted into the Army Aviation Corps in the immediate future.

SP’s: What would be the roles of Light Combat Helicopter, Rudra and Apache in Army Aviation Corps?

DGAA: Combat aviation assets with modern avionics, electro-optics and weapon systems can perform multiple tasks in the entire spectrum of conflict in varied and inhospitable terrain including high altitude areas.

The Rudra is a potent combat helicopter with an array of armaments including multiple types of rockets, turret gun and capability to mount anti-tank guided missiles besides state of the art avionics. It can perform a multitude of roles ranging from armed escort for heliborne operations to intimate fire power for various offensive and defensive operations. The LCH has a similar armament profile with enhanced manoeuvrability and armour protection, and is primarily meant for the mountains. The Apache is one of the best attack helicopters in the world, and will be fully integrated

Forces. Private players in collaboration with foreign companies have also joined the fray to cater to the Indian market.

The issue wraps up with the usual news digest. Happy reading you discerning readers and meet you all at the Aero India Show - Hall E, Stall Number 1.5.

Jayant Baranwal Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

IAF to the Army? What are the timelines?

DGAA: It has been decided that all future attack helicopter inductions will be for the Army. Towards this, induction of AH-64E Apache helicopters into the Army is in the final stages of approval. Meanwhile, the existing attack helicopters and the already contracted 22 x Attack Helicopters will be held with the Airforce.

“It has been decided that all future attack helicopter inductions will be for the Army. Towards this, induction of AH-64E Apache helicopters into the Army is in the final stages of approval.” with the mechanised forces, providing unmatched fire power and manoeuvrability.

SP’s: What is the range of weaponry being sought for combat/armed Army Aviation Corps helicopters?

DGAA: The Apache AH-64E, Rudra and LCH would be equipped with a Turret Gun, Rocket system, Air to Air Missile and Anti Tank Guided Missile.

SP’s: Is the Army planning to induct medium lift and heavy lift helicopters (like the Mi-17 and Chinook)?

DGAA: As of now, medium and heavy lift helicopters are being operated by the IAF. However, in the long term as and when the requirement is felt, the same will be looked into.

SP’s: Are there any plans to induct fixed wing aircraft in the future? If yes, what will be their primary role?

DGAA: As of now the requirement of fixed wing aircrafts for the Army Aviation is not envisaged. However, as and when due to operational requirements, the need arises, the same will be examined.

SP’s: What is the progress on the decision to transfer the attack helicopter role from the

SP’s: In terms of air operations, fleet maintenance and air maintenance what measures have been put in place for greater jointmanship with the IAF? DGAA: The aspect of greater jointmanship is being addressed by joint courses at training institutes, exchange of aviators, sharing of best practices including flight safety courses etc. Feasibility of having common operating procedures for maintenance of aviation assets is being studied. Air maintenance is primarily the responsibility of the IAF. However, the shortfall in availability of IAF flying effort is being made up by Army Cheetah, Cheetal and ALH (Dhruv) helicopters.

SP’s: What about induction of women pilots?

DGAA: Army Aviation already has women officers, who are being directly commissioned as Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) officers. Besides this, women engineering officers are also being posted in Army Aviation units for maintenance of the helicopter fleet. The proposal for inducting women officers as aviators is under examination and is being viewed positively.

SP’s: What is your vision to support the ‘Make in India’ initiative, and what steps have been taken to support the Industry to fulfill procurement objectives indigenously?

DGAA: Army Aviation Corps is leading the way in support of the ‘Make in India’ initiative with majority of fleet being indigenously developed viz Advanced Light Helicopter, Rudra and Light Combat Helicopter.

Army Aviation Corps is closely associated with Design and Development of Light Utility Helicopter by HAL as a replacement for Chetak/Cheetah. Bulk of Kamov Ka-226T helicopters will also be manufactured in India. Incidentally, amongst the three services Army Aviation has the largest indigenous helicopter fleet ex HAL. SP’s: What is the vision for Army Aviation procurement and maintenance budgets over the next 20 years?

DGAA: Adequate budget is being allocated for the envisaged induction of reconnaissance and surveillance helicopters, attack helicopters and the ammunition for the combat helicopters in a phased manner.

Yearly budget is being allocated for the scheduled maintenance/sustenance of the inducted helicopters. SP

1/2019 SP’s Land Forces

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>> MODERNISATION

Calibrated Modernisation Strategy Model for Indian Army “Unless India stands up to the world, no one will respect us; In this world, fear has no place; Only strength respects strength”.

—Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Photographs: Indian Army

 Lt General A.B. SHIVANE (Retd)

I

n the over seven decades since Independence, there have been transformational changes in the evolving geo-economic, geo-political and geostrategic canvas creating strategic uncertainty impacting the regional cum global security. India’s recent trajectory in world arena has given rise to strategic aspirations and belief of being a regional economic and net security anchor. This belief stems from its geo-political, geo-economic and geo-strategic potential as a nation, based on the foundation of its hard power, soft power and demonstrated capabilities.

Thus, our national interests, strategic security framework and unresolved border disputes remain the overarching driver of our military modernisation plans. Finally, the economic resilience and financial support envelope charters the realisation of our modernisation plans. Ironically the rising Indian economic landscape has lacked the will of translating economic prowess into military power. While the present government has taken several policy initiatives to foster indigenous military capabilities, the execution has been poor and outcomes disappointing. Thus, while the threats and challenges to our national security have magnified and manifested manifold, our response remains archival. This trend if not addressed can translate to ability of defence forces to defend the country but not guarantee security to the nation.

www.spslandforces.com

The Modernisation Cauldron Modernisation preserves the Army’s core capability to deter and defeat adversaries through combat overmatch, for the present and future conflicts. Future force modernisation thus build on the principles of retaining the capacity and readiness to accomplish combat superiority, expand new capabilities to cope up with the emerging threats, harnessing joint force capabilities and optimising force mix through a combined arms force application. To build and maintain these fundamental capabilities, we must make affordable, sustainable, and cost-effective decisions which provide versatile and tailorable capabilities. Thus, the Army Modernisation Cauldron must address the operational, technological and fiscal realities to achieve the stated objectives as elucidated below:  Operational Environment. The greatest danger to our Nation continues to be external aggression with collusive threat from adversaries as well as internal instability due to state/non-state sponsored proxy war, thus imposing multi front challenges in various dimensions, ranging from warfare in the non-contact domain, to an all-out full spectrum war.

The security challenges of tomorrow can be met, to a great extent, with the capabilities that we sustain, upgrade, develop, replace and modernise today. This is the window for hard decisions and prioritisation if we have to realise the military objectives of punitive deterrence on the Western Front, credible deterrence on

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SP’s Land Forces 1/2019

(Top) Modernisation preserves the Army’s core capability to deter and defeat adversaries through combat overmatch, for the present and future conflicts.; (above) Akash medium-range mobile surface-to-air missile defence system.

the Northern Front and stability on the internal security front.  Fiscal Environment. The increasing mismatch between budgetary requirement versus availability and uncertainty of assured financial support has led to an adverse situation. The reality is that the defence budget is limited, and will remain so, due to resources being deviated towards dealing with the national priorities of development and poverty alleviation. Thus, it becomes essential to utilise the limited resources optimally.

The challenge lies in either an ‘Army sized to Budget’ or a ‘Budget sized to the Army’. Given the Indian environment a pragmatic approach would be a mean of both and the need to fine balance the trio of 3 M’s – ‘Money-Manpower-Modernisation’. Within the budgetary allocation we need to a improve the skewed revenue to capital ratio to 60:40, along with a pragmatic approach to balancing the sustenance and modernisation needs.  Technological Environment. Technological superiority always offers militaries a warfighting advantage as also a deterrent value. The weak Indian defence R&D and inadequate indigenous military technology base have led to import of technologies further aggravated with poor absorption capabilities in terms of skill and time. The acquisition of high-tech

platforms, equipment, and even ammunition illustrates the point that India has still a long way to go before it becomes self-reliant in some critical defence technologies. The Technology Perspective and Capability Road Map (TPCR) 2018 is a step in the right direction but needs greater elaboration and interaction to translate into focusses execution. Further investments in R&D must be encouraged in the Private Sector on a “Risk Sharing Gain Sharing” formulation.

Inadequacies in the Present Approach to Modernisation Although modernisation is an ongoing process however, there are inadequacies

Indian Army of the future must be equipped and ready to fight and win India’s wars through indigenous solutions, jointly over the entire spectrum of conflict

and infirmities in the present, which are listed under:  The present approach is personality-oriented approach and not an institutionalised approach, resulting in frequent cancellations/review even of cases, sometimes at advance stage resulting in waste of time and man hours retarding capabilities. Further, frequent turnovers and lack of an institutionalised mechanism results in often reinventing the wheel or missing the wood for the trees.  In the present dispensation, budget seems to be driving modernisation and not vice versa or a balance between these conflicting requirements. Resultantly schemes which may have manifested to a contract stage after years of effort are not progressed/diluted due to insufficient budget.  Modernisation endeavours and QRs (Qualitative Requirements) are predominantly driven by acquisition of stateof-the-art capabilities which are either unrealistic or cost prohibitive. Lack of pragmatism and quest for ‘top of the line’ capability often result in denial of even available mature technologies.

More often than not the procurement and kitting cycle is longer than the technological cycle due to sluggish processes and time insensitivity.  While there is a scaling committee in place, but the quest for uniform scaling a large military is cost exorbitant and often at the cost of another capability.

Further, we build capabilities for individual entities and not organisational capabilities, thus when a combined armed force is applied in battle often disjointed and noncomplementary capabilities retard their optimal effect in battle.  The hard disk memory of defence equipment scams of the past has given way for a risk averse culture in the processing and decision-making chain, especially of high value procurements which merit either a MoF or CCS approval.

Thus, while there is accountability for decisions there is no accountability for indecisiveness and time e.g. FICV case.  Modernisation, expansion and sustenance are not balanced within the meagre budgetary allocation. Expansion and modernisation cannot go hand in hand. Further, modernisation and sustenance are two sides of the same coin.

This balance needs to be addressed to obviate voids and foster prioritised modernisation needs.

Aligning Ends, Ways and Means Resource availability cannot dictate the ends required for the Army, but its calibration defines both the ways and means to achieve those ends. The ends are defined as the capacity to accomplish combat overmatch across the entire spectrum of conflict, in an essentially tri-service synergised combined arms battle space. The ways are to balance needs with limited resources so as to align to the operational environment and emerging technologies, innovate for opera-

>> MODERNISATION

Budgetary Constraints Force Army to Drop Big Programmes Focus on Infantry modernisation, artillery and air defence PhotographS: L&T Heavy Engineering

 Vishal Thapar

T

he 2019-20 Budgetary allocation for the Indian Army’s modernisation programmes through capital acquisition route is pegged at `29,447.28 crore. After meeting committed liabilities of approximately `21,600 crore, this leaves about `7,800 crore for initial payments for new contracts.

Of the capital allocation for the Army, `2,115.43 crore is budgeted for Aircraft and Aeroengines, `2,128.05 crore for Heavy and Medium Vehicles and `18,562.15 crore under the ‘Other Equipment’ head. A meatier revenue allocation of `20,337.40 crore has been made for Stores, of which the substantial part is for purchase of ammunition.

These figures provide a broad indication of the direction of Army modernisation spending. But it’s clear that budgetary constraints have forced the Army to reprioritise its programmes and optimising its spending to met its most immediate requirements.

This has led to the foreclosure of big Army programmes like the Battlefield Management System (BMS) and the stalling of a dedicated Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) secure communication network. The concept of modernising the Infantry too has shrunk from the wholesome Future Infantry Soldier as a System (FINSAS) to acquiring better small arms and personal protection equipment like bullet proof jackets and helmets for soldiers. The big ticket Future Infantry Combat Vehicle Programme (FICV) too is being recast.

Ahead of Army Day on January 15, the Indian Army Chief, General Bipin Rawat emphasised that his priority was to modernise the small arms inventory, while ensuring better artillery firepower.

Just a month after General Rawat’s public statement, a $91 million contract was signed on February 12 for importing 72,400 Sig Sauer SiG-716 assault rifles from the US under a Fast Track programme. A similar contract is expected soon with Caracal of the UAE for 93,895 carbines.

The initial lot of 5,000 sniper guns too has been delivered to the Army’s Northern Command.

More elaborate Make in India programmes will be

tional payoffs and priorities resources based on value, risk and vulnerability. The means are through a tiered spiral modernisation to improve existing systems, develop new capabilities, bridge technology gaps and balance modernisation with sustenance needs.

In addition, our procedures and processes for procurement also need to be innovative, outcome oriented and with greater accountability to ensure timely modernisation and capability enhancement.

www.spslandforces.com

A Calibrated Modernisation Strategy Model The art of the calibrated modernisation will be to balance capability, sustainability, and readiness within the allocated resources to achieve the desired ends. This requires us to build our equipping priorities based on value, vulnerability and risks in temporal terms.

The contours of such a strategy will entail:  Tiered Modernisation. This approach prioritises in terms of progressive capabilities and tiered modernisation while mitigating the risks of low funding reality. It prioritises a smaller, high readiness status for operationally critical formations to the fullest extent possible while ensuring sufficient modernisation for the balance to be upgraded once funds availability improves. Capabilities desired must be classified as Operationally Critical (P1), Operationally Necessary (P2) and Operationally Desirable (P3). Similarly scaling or provisioning must be tiered as Modernisation Level 1 (state of art) of a smaller force which is at high risk, high payoffs and high readiness priority, while ensuring Modernisation Level 2 (current/modern) of the majority of the balance force to upgrade when funds become available. The Army must

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SP’s Land Forces 1/2019

K9 VAJRA-T 155mm 52 Cal howitzer

launched soon for acquiring 650,000 assault rifles and 350,000 carbines.

Artillery modernisation, which kicked off in 2018 with commencement of induction of the M777 ultra light howitzers (ULH) and K9 Vajra tracked self-propelled howitzers, is on track. The Army has also placed an indent for acquiring Dhanush artillery guns being developed by the Ordnance Factory Board. It is also expected to commit itself to the ATAGS towed gun being developed by the DRDO. A new Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (SRSAM) programme is also close to being signed. This envisages every unit of Army Air Defence to be equipped with the SRSAM. This involves technology collabortation between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and a foreign OEM, and subsequent nomination of a production agency. Besides, the Army will continue to invest in the indigenous Akash air defence batteries.

There’s also a long-standing need for a new anti-tank guided missile (ATGM). After a change of mind on acquiring the Israeli Spike, a new decision is expected this year.

Another priority is helicopters for Army Aviation. General Rawat expressed optimism on progress in acquiring the American Apache gunship and the indigenous Light Com-

place first priority on formations most operationally critical to be equipped with the best, that is, those facing the greatest risk and providing the maximum payoffs when employed in battle.  Spiral Approach to Technology Induc-

tion. Enhanced functional capabilities

and increased weapon effectiveness index contributing to combat overmatch must dictate the desired technologies.

The pragmatic effort must be to bridge technology gaps and shorten acquisition timelines with induction of modern in-service technologies earliest, by way of product improvements in the short term. Simultaneously develop R&D for state of art technologies for future time critical technology infusion in the midterm. In the long term invest into Science and Technology projects for generation after next disruptive technologies in the long term. This spiral and progressive approach based on indigenous solutions needs to be institutionalised. The need is to encourage indigenous solutions and integrate mature technologies with incremental improvements, while investing in future disruptive technologies.  Risk - Vulnerability Analysis. Risk is a function of the values of threat, consequence, and vulnerability. The objective of risk management is to create a level of protection that mitigates vulnerabilities to threats and the potential consequences, thereby reducing risk to an acceptable level. Calibrated modernisation relates to prioritised modernisation based on acquisitions adding maximum value to combat effectiveness, mitigating critical vulnerabilities and accepting certain risks in temporal terms. Risk must be assessed in temporal terms and

bat Helicopter. “The LCH has done well. It is making good progress. The altitudes at which it has operated gives us confidence. We need to take a call at Aero India next month,” he had said, hinting that a contract for the first lot of the indigenous attack helicopters could be signed at Aero India in February. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited announced recently that the weapons trials on the LCH, including the firing of the Mistral air-to-air missile, are complete. The Army is expected to sign up for an initial lot of five LCH gunships.

But the asset which the Army really has set its heart for is the American Apache, which is central to the Army’s aspiration to taking over the attack helicopter role from the Indian Air Force. “We’re confident that the Apache (attack helicopter) will be signed. We’ve tagged our requirement along with the Indian Air Force (IAF)’s. The issue is who will control the attack helicopters. The role and charter for which we’re inducting the Apache needs to be decided,” the Army Chief had said, referring to the Army-IAF turf war over control of the attack helicopter role. The Army has projected an initial requirement for six Apache gunships.

The Army continues to acquire the indigenous Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), and a part of this nfleet is also being weaponised to give it an anti-tank role. “We need better rockets and missiles for the ALH WSI. The DRDO is developing a rocket and missile for this helicopter.

If it is able to meet development and production timelines, these weapons will be indigenously acquired. Otherwise, we will go in for imports,” the Army Chief had said.

General Rawat had also announced that acquisition of hand-launched UAVs for all Infantry battalions deployed close to unsettled boundaries was another priority. This is being done to avoid sending troops in harm’s way and thereby minimising casualties.

Efforts are also afoot to find equipment for detect tunnels being dug along boundaries to abet infiltration of terrorists.

“Things have changed. It’s time for a relook. The equipment used by the US Army is not our requirement. We are modifying our requirement,” General Rawat told SP’s Editor-in-Chief Jayant Baranwal, while explaining the reprioritisation of acquisitions. SP

accepted in certain areas to ensure that the more critical areas are added value while mitigating vulnerabilities.  Cost Informed Decisions. Modernisation decisions must be both affordable and cost effective within the overall budget to include life cycle costs. The opportunity cost of “over-spending” to close a specific high cost gap is that we will not be able to afford closing several other gaps; thus, we must make cost informed decisions to manage ‘best bang for the buck’.  Balance Modernisation and Suste-

nance. Modernisation and sustenance

cannot be progressed in compartmentalised mindsets. The fiscal requirements for modernisation must be carefully balanced against the fiscal requirements necessary for sustaining the force at hand in its life cycle. Thus, standardisation and commonality of a family of platforms and interoperable technologies will reduce sustenance cost with better inventory management.  Indigenous Solutions to Indian Warf-

ighting. Indigenous capability is a

critical contributory factor of strategic autonomy. Thus, modernisation must be based on indigenous capabilities even if marginally lower, and where insufficient then based on a joint collaboration with an Indian firm, ensuring levers in our hand. Our Defence Industrial Base and Defence R&D need to be boosted to make this a reality. The new categorization of Buy IDDM (Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) categorisation/Make I or II/Strategic Partnership model must be optimised.

However, where time and operational critical equipment are not available indigenously, we must not shy away

and dilute our operational readiness for want of indigenous solutions.  Organisation and Sector Based Integrated Capability Equipping. Formation and unit specific equipping with sector specific force multipliers as sector stores, will produce greater effects rather than diluting equipping and distributing limited assets across the board without major payoffs. A ‘one size fit all’ procurement may not be adaptable to all our varied operational terrains and thus merits review.  Joint Force Capability Focus. In an era of effect based joint operations, interoperable and synergised modernisation strategy for joint force capabilities is not only financially wise but operationally prudent. The need is to transit from intra service and inter service compartmentalised disjointed growth to interoperability and interdependency. The newly formed DPC would do well to holistically review the joint force capability building and synergised modernisation through an integrated approach.

Conclusion Indian Army of the future must be equipped and ready to fight and win India’s wars through indigenous solutions, jointly over the entire spectrum of conflict. This mandates a review of Indian Army’s Modernisation Strategy from a scheme based and procedure oriented to a capability based and outcome oriented approach, in tune with fiscal realities and organisational spending capacity. The suggested calibrated modernisation strategy model is an attempt based on the need to find the sweet spot of desirability, availability and reality for combat overmatch in future conflicts. SP

>> Night Vision

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

Photograph: Trijicon

 Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd)

I

n the early history of warfare, armies were meant to rest at night as the soldiers could not see in the dark.

But there was a continuous effort to use the darkness to achieve surprise. Use of moonlight for aiming and use of stars for navigation are some examples. Simple gadgets like the prismatic compass and other navigation aids combined with detailed day time reconnaissance were employed for operations at night. But modern technology like image intensifier and thermal imaging has enabled the military to fight during the night, almost as it was day.

www.spslandforces.com

Working of a Thermal Imaging – A Snap Shot Thermal Imaging (TI) detects objects based on heat emitted by them. The warmer the object, the more infrared long-wave light it radiates and the more detectable it is. However it does not have high resolution of the image as compared to an image intensifier of the similar field of view. A special lens focuses the infrared light emitted by all of the objects in view which is scanned by infrared-detector elements which in turn form a detailed temperature pattern called a thermogram. The detector array works very fast and obtains the temperature information in about one-thirtieth of a second to make the thermogram. The thermogram is translated into electric impulses which are then converted into display data where it appears as various colors depending on the intensity of the infrared emission. There are two common types of thermal-imaging devices that is Un-cooled and Cryogenically cooled.

Un-cooled is the most common TI device which can operate at room temperature, is completely quiet and activates immediately.

However there have been critical developments in uncooled thermal imagers with the use of vanadium oxide and amorphous silicon which have made them suitable for head-mounted applications. Cryogenically cooled is more expensive but has an incredible resolution and sensitivity that result from cooling the elements. Cryogenicallycooled systems can discern a difference as small as 0.1 C from more than 300m away, which is enough to tell if a person is holding a gun at that distance. The critical considerations for any thermal imager include field of view (target size and distance), type of surface being measured (emissivity considerations), spectral response (for atmospheric effects or transmission through surfaces), temperature range and mounting (handheld portable or fixed mount). Other considerations include response time, environment, viewing port or window applications and desired signal processing. Fusing image intensification technology with thermal imagery brings out the best in both sensors. Some examples of thermal imagers being used by military are given below: Enhanced Night Vision Goggle-Binocular (ENVG-B) Programme To operate more effectively at night, US Army has given $391.8 million three-year contract to L-3 Insight during May, 2018

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SP’s Land Forces 1/2019

Trijicon IR-PATROL

for the ENVG-B. The ENVG family represents helmet-mounted night-vision goggles that blend image intensification and long wave infrared sensors for combat at night, in bad weather, and in smoke and dust. Harris and L-3 Insight are building ENVG II, while BAE Systems and DRS are building ENVG III. ENVG III weapon sights also has an improved resolution and a wider field of view which enables rapid target acquisition.

Combination of ENVG III and Family of Weapons Sights-Individual (FWS-I) technology The FWS-I, when mounted on a soldier’s weapon, will transmit its sight picture through radio to the ENVG III, which is mounted on a soldier’s helmet. The FWS-I is designed for the M4 and M16 rifles, and can mount on those rifles in front of day sights that have already been bore-sighted.

The ENVG will combine thermal imaging with image intensification technology. A variety of modes will allow soldiers to see in their goggles only the image from the ENVG III itself, only the image from the FWS-I, or a combination of the two. Using a ‘picture-in-picture’ mode, the image from the FWS-I is displayed at the bottom right of the image that is coming from the goggle. This combines the rapid target acquisition technology and can be effectively be used for surveillance, aiming weapons during daylight, darkness, adverse weather and dirty battlefield conditions. This system should be with the U.S. Army by the first quarter of 2019.

L-3’s AN/PSQ-20B ENVG L-3 Insight.

AN/PSQ-20B ENVG is a helmet-mounted dual waveband monocular which enables the user to view images through one eye, but not through two eyes as a binocular device can.

The AN/PSQ-20B ENVG provides improved targeting and identification by fusing image intensification technology with thermal imagery to bring out the best in both sensors.

Trijicon® Trijicon is one of the leading companies for developing and marketing ‘no-light aiming systems’. It offers a large variety of advanced thermal imaging riflescopes for use in military role like patrolling, engaging

targets and for use with snipers. There are 12 models to choose including five for hunting. Many thermal systems offer 17 micron technology and upscale or downscale their imagery, which creates a significant loss of detail. Trijicon®thermal optics utilises a MicrolR™thermal core that features a 12 micron detector LWIR (Long Wave InfraRed) Uncooled Technology to deliver high performance, clean 640x480 imagery at an outstanding 60 Hz frame rate. 12 Micron 60 Hz High-Speed Frame Rate with VOx (Vanadium Oxide) which responses very well for infra red. Most thermal sights give you only one choice for black hot/white hot, which are commonly referred to as polarity.

Trijicon®thermal optics come with MaxPol technology for maximum multi-polarity control. This feature gives you three modes of white hot and three modes of black hot so you can identify your targets in most of the condition. Trijicon also offers EDGE DETECT Mode, which is an entirely new way to view your target with more precision. It is a fraction of the brightness of other modes, so your eyes are not as prone to night blindness from the screen. Their thermal system is built rugged, tough and with MIL-STD810G standards (which are US Military standards). Trijicon aims to ‘Take on the Night’ with their thermal imagers. Some examples are: Trijicon IR-PATROL The models include handheld, helmetmounted or weapon-mounted systems. And if you already have a day optic sighted in, the IR-PATROL can be placed in front and used as a clip-on device for 24-hour tactical usage. All the models have a sensor resolution of 640x480.

Hand Held. LE100 & LE100C have Advanced Thumbstick Controller, Ruggedized System Design, Full Digital Display and Objective Lens Cap. The M250XR (extended range)model has 7° FOV, 4.5x Magnification, Stadiametric Rangefinder, 640x480 Thermal Sensor and image capture.

Helmet Mounted Model.

Wilcox®Interface Shoe, 60 Hz High-Speed Frame Rate, Edge Detect Mode, lightweight design and Objective Lens Cap. The kit includes IR-PATROL™640x480 Thermal

Monocular, Wilcox Interface, ShoeWilcox Helmet-Mount Interface Kit, 60 Hz HighSpeed Frame-Rate Download/Video Cable.

M300W Rifle-Mounted Model.

The IR-PATROL™M300W is a mini riflemountable system that works as a dedicated or clip-on thermal rifle sight. When not in use, the optional Wilcox®Side Flip mount conveniently flips the IR-PATROL M300W out of the way for zero obstruction. It has fully Adjustable Reticle System, Clip-On Mode Included, Optional Wilcox®Side Flip Mount, Mini Thermal Sight and Objective Lens Cap. The kit which comes along with is IR-PATROL™640x480 Thermal Monocular, Reticle System (with Clip-On mode), Wilcox Interface Shoe, Wilcox Flip Mount Rifle Base, 60 Hz High-Speed Frame-Rate Download/Video Cable. Field of View is 22°, Magnification E-Zoom is 1x Optical/8x Digit, Display Type Digital organic lightemitting diode (OLED is a light-emitting diode display which works without a backlight because it emits visible light). It uses a CR123 Lithium Battery with a life of 1.5 hr. @ 60 Hz. Also has EDGE DETECT mode.

Trijicon SNIPE-IR™. It comes with a 640x480 12 micron VOx sensor and OLED digital micro display that gives you clear, brilliant imagery at a fast 60 Hz frame-rate system—even through pitch-black darkness, has a advanced VisRelay collimating optic eliminates parallax. The Trijicon SNIPE-IR is optimized for use with a 4x day optic. NOSHOT ZERO Sight-In Easy sight-in integration for accurate calibrations and can be used in Clip-On, Hybrid and Stand-Alone Modes.

Batteries 2 x CR123 with life of 3.5 Hours @ 60 Hz. The company advises to combine their Trijicon ACOG®combat optic with the clip-on SNIPE-IR™thermal sight for having a lethal 24-hour advanced weapons platform for maintaining maximum situational awareness and engaging targets.

Indian Perspective Bharat Electronics Limited Optronic Devices Ltd (BELOP) Image Intensifier Tube manufacturing facility BELOP (formerly BEL DELFT) is an fully owned subsidiary of BEL which started manufacturing Gen2 Image Intensifiers in collaboration with and as a Joint Venture with BV DELFT Netherlands in 1994. The plant is presently being upgraded to XR5 grade with a capacity to produce more than 30,000 Image Intensifier Tubes per year. BEL also has plans to produce Micro Channel Plate (MCP) indigenously with ToT from PHOTONIS once the XR-5 is fully established.

Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) Night Vision Devices is one of the areas of strategic interest for Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). TASL has entered into a partnership with Exelis Inc., the world leader in Gen 3 Image Intensification based NVDs, to manufacture and supply these systems to Indian Defence market. As part of the drive towards achieving indigenisation, TASL has set up a production facility in India, for assembly and manufacture of sub-assemblies and complete systems. SP

>> Small Arms

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

Photographs: Barrett, Victrix Armaments, Sig Sauer, Caracal

 VISHAL THAPAR & Lt General P.C. Katoch (Retd)

tective gear like helmets and bullet proof jackets and software defined radios.

India signs contract for assault rifles in fast track procurement

Background

India on February 12 signed a `647 crore ($91.6 million) contract with the American small arms company Sig Sauer for the import of 72,400 SiG 716 assault rifles.

This procurement is being done under the Fast Track Procedure under the Buy (Global) category of the Defence Procurement Procedure to replace the indigenous INSAS rifle. The SiG 716 rifles are to be delivered within 12 months of the signing of the contract, and will kick off the modernisation of the small arms inventory of the Indian armed forces.

Of the 72,400 Sig Sauer rifles ordered, 66,400 will go to the Army, 4,000 for the Indian Air Force and 2,000 for the Navy.

The procurement process has been completed in just over a year. The Acceptance of Necessity for this rifle was given by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on January 16, 2018.

While there was an urgency to acquire these rifles in these numbers, a larger Make in India procurement programme will be initiated soon for 6,50,000 assault rifles. It has been reported recently that a Government-to-Government deal with Russia may be in the works to produce the AK-103 in collaboration with the Government’s Ordnance Factory Board.

“The Indian armed forces are presently equipped with the 5.56x45mm INSAS rifle.

There is an urgent requirement for replacing this rifle with a 7.62x51mm assault rifle which is compact, robust, modern in technology and simple to maintain in field conditions,” a Ministry of Defence official said.

The Sig Sauer rifle will be the first American Infantry weapon for the Indian Army in over five decades.

Sig Sauer’s offer for the SiG 716, which fires a 7.62mm round, emerged the lowest bid (L1) in a competition also involving Russia’s Kalashnikov, Arsenal, Israel’s IWI and UAE’s Caracal.

It is also learnt that a fast tracked contract with Caracal, a UAE-based company, for 93,895 carbines too is close to being signed. The imported Caracal carbine will begin the replacement process for the vintage 9mm Sterling carbine. Under a separate ‘Make in India’ programme, an additional 3,50,000 carbines will be acquired.

The companies bidding for the ‘Make in India’ carbine programme include Caracal, Colt, IWI, S&T Motiv and Baretta.

There’s yet another programme for acquiring 16,800 Light Machine Guns.

Indian Army getting sniper guns used in Afghanistan, Iraq Italian Berreta Lapua Magnum and American Barrett M95 guns to replace the ageing Soviet-origin Dragonov rifles.

Pressed by new threats on the Line of Control (LoC), the Indian Army is acquiring sniper rifles which have been used by allied forces in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. These are the Italian Beretta .338 Lapua Magnum Scorpio TGT and the American Barret M95.

The procurement of an estimated 5,719 of these sniper rifles has been fast tracked on account of the Indian Army being repeatedly targetted by Pakistani snipers on the LoC. The Italian Beretta Lapua Magnum

Barrett’s Model 95

Beretta’s .338 Lapua Magnum Scorpio TGT

Sig Sauer’s SiG 716

Caracal’s CAR816

and the American Barrett M95 will replace the ageing Soviet-origin Dragonov sniper rifles in the Indian inventory. These will scale up the Indian capability to counter the threat on the LoC. SP’s Land Forces had reported the announcement on the new sniper rifles by the Indian Army Ch ief General Bipin Rawat at a press conference in New Delhi on January 10 but the General did not then specify the make of the guns. The specifics were confirmed later by Army sources.

The Northern Command is getting the first lot of these guns as an emergency purchase from special funds delegated to Army Commanders. “These will arrive by January 20,” General Rawat announced. “The balance 5,000 guns (for equipping Infantry and special units other than those in Kashmir) will come under a capital acquisitions programme,” he elaborated. General Rawat described these rifles as “amongst the best in the world”.

The Barret M95 is also used as an anti-

materials rifle (AMR), in the role of a bunker buster to target enemies holed up behind fortified defences. This .50 calibre weapon has a kill range of 1,800 metres, and will supplement the Indian Army’s Denel AMR’s acquired from South Africa post the Kargil War in 1999.

Open source information on the .338 calibre Beretta Lapua Magnum suggests that while it was developed to penetrate body armour at a range of 1,000 metres, it has been effectively used for kills up to 1,500 metres and beyond, and accounts for some record breaking sniper shots.

General Rawat had made this announcement in the context of putting the Infantry foot soldier at the heart of the Army’s procurement agenda. Many other big ticket programmes including the Battlefield Management System and Tactical Communication System have been dropped. Even the ambitious FINSAS programme itself has been reduced to acquiring a good assault rifle and carbine for the Infantry, and pro-

The Indian Army has been starved for stateof-the-art small arms including assault rifles and carbines for decades, inability of the government-owned ordnance factories board (OFB) to meet the requirement and bureaucratic red-tape stymieing imports. The hunt for new assault rifles actually began 18 years ago, in 1980, when 17 x 5.56mm rifles from 11 countries were imported by Ministry of Defence (MoD) to equip three Para Commando battalions and three Para Battalions.

In 2011, a tender was floated for direct acquisition of 65,000 new generation assault rifles for the Army costing `4,848 crore to equip 120 infantry battalions. Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) was to then manufacture over 1,13,000 such rifles through JV with the foreign vendor providing ToT. The rifle was to weigh around 3.5 kg with advanced night-vision, holographic reflex sights, laser designators, detachable under-barrel grenade launchers etc. However, the OFB came up with the ‘Excalibur’ assault rifle, by making cosmetic changes to the INSAS rifle. Not meeting Army’s requirements, it was rejected and the whole process for procuring assault rifles started once again. In May 2015, the request for proposals (RFP) for the assault rifles was scrapped by MoD, forcing the Army in September 2016 to re-launch its global hunt for around 2,00,000 new-generation 7.62mm x 51mm assault rifles after similar bids over last decade were shelved on various grounds including corruption. In 2016, the MoD also scrapped tender issued in 2010 for 44,618 close-quarter battle carbines. On January 17, 2018, media reports stated: “13 years after request, Army to get 1.6 lakh rifles, carbines”. The defence acquisition council (DAC) headed by the Defence Minister, had cleared fast-track procurement of 72,400 assault rifles and 93,850 close quarter battle (CQB) carbines for `3,547 crore from the global market. Tenders were to be floated while procurement could also be done on government to government basis. Approval for these limited emergency purchases came after repeated scrapping of tenders, mainly because of allegations of graft, as well as OFB’s inability to provide state-of-the-art small arms over almost two decades.

Following MoD issuing RFP for acquisition of 72,400 assault rifles, 93,895 CQB carbines promised to Infantry, soldiers deployed on borders with China and Pakistan under the fast track programme (FTP), government sent out a nine-member delegation to US, Australia, South Korea, Israel and UAE to scout for assault rifles and CQB carbines to trial evaluate the rifles and carbines of the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of vendors of these countries. The FTP selection was to be based on operational requirements, not on process of general staff qualitative requirements (GSQR), field trials, staff evaluation etc, as per a MoD official. The weapons found suitable by the empowered committee were then to be brought to India by the OEMs for “compatibility trials” with Indian ammunition. The FTP for acquiring 16,479 light machine guns (LMGs) was also approved by MoD in February 2018. These purchases are to be followed by a larger ‘Make in India’ project for equipping the Army including 382 infantry battalions and 63 Rashtriya Rifles battalions. SP

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>> Air Defence

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

Photographs: IAI

 SP’s Correspondent

W

ith the emergence of new, highly sophisticated aerial threats, investments in air defence capabilities are growing at a rapid pace.

Maintaining one of the world’s largest military forces, India is heavily invested in the air defence modernisation, fielding new systems modernising older weapons and replacing obsolete systems with modern, state-of-the-art capabilities for all three services – Air Force, Navy and Army.

One of the largest air defence acquisition programmes in India is MRSAM, jointly developed by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). In some of the projects, Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) is the main contractor and lead integrator. MRSAM has been acquired in multiple orders as a common defence building block, for all armed forces in India – Navy, Air and Land. MRSAM provides a networked, integrated naval and land-based air defence capability against maneuvering aircraft, UAVs and cruise missiles.

With plans to extend the missile’s range to 150 km (ER version) the combined fire unit operating two missiles ranges could quadruple its area coverage in the future, as the ER will be able to seamlessly with MRSAM units. Using the same interceptor strapped to a booster, the ER missile will more than double the intercept range reaching 150 km, while keeping same set of sub-systems and spares to enable a most efficient life cycle cost. This range extension may be used by all three services, already operating the current 70 km MRSAM. The Indian Navy also modernises many of its

(Left) IAI’s SkyCapture system; (Right) IAI’s MRSAM missile during the test

air defence capabilities with MRSAM fielded with indigenously built vessels. In this application vertically launched MRSAM is designed to engage the most challenging threats, from saturation attacks by supersonic sea skimming missiles or highly maneuverable, high flying targets.

The Indian Army also intends to field short range quick reaction capabilities and has selected IAI’s SkyCapture system to modernise, enhance and coordinate existing air defence artillery, as well as current and future short-range missile systems. IAI has developed and successfully live fired under Indian Army demonstration, a quick reaction surface-to-air (QRSAM) capability with the MRAD interceptor, a 30 km air

defence system implementing unique fireon-the-move technology to defeat low and high-flying targets at medium and short range while protecting the moving ground forces. Equipped with a new seeker that enables all-weather operations, and a missile designed for agility and engagement of targets at all altitudes, MRAD has demonstrated the capability to deploy rapidly, operate on the move and simultaneously engage multiple targets.

These successes are based on the experience IAI has gained in 60 years of developing and supplying Air and Missile Defence systems for customers worldwide. IAI has led the development of Israel’s multi-layered ballistic missile defence programme,

as the prime contractor for the Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 missile defence systems and provider of key elements for other widely deployed air and missile defence systems.

Parts of the Arrow anti-ballistic missile system. The system employs large early warning radars, battle management systems and Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 interceptors, the system is designed to defeat ballistic missiles in exo-atmospheric and endo-atmospheric engagements, targeting missiles and warheads at their mid-course and terminal phases. While the Arrow system is exclusively used by Israel, related system including the ELM-2090 Terra and ELM-2080 Green Pine early warning radars have been exported to some allied countries. SP

www.spslandforces.com

MRSAM becomes India’s Standard for Air Defence capability The Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile System (MRSAM) began in the mid2000s as an air defence system defending against all types of threats, manned and unmanned aircraft, sea skimming missiles, and guided weapons. The programme was officially launched in 2006 as a cooperative development between Israel and India led by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and DRDO. In 2017 the system, became the de-facto standard for Indian air defences, selected by all three Indian military services – the Navy, Air Force and Army.

The largest operator is the Indian Navy, where MRSAM was selected for installation on 15 first line surface combatants.

Three P15A (Kolkata Class) destroyers are already operationally protected by the system. Deliveries of MRSAM for four P15B as well as seven P17A destroyers is under progress, along with a system destined to protect the first indigenous aircraft carrier the Vikrant. Last year another contract was signed, for the supply of MRSAM systems for seven P17A frigates. In addition, the system was also selected to protect the first line vessels of the Israeli Navy - the four new SAAR 6 Magen class vessels.

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Photograph: IAI

Barak-8 missile

The Indian Air Force is also committed to field 18 air defence batteries while the Indian Army has acquired a first group of the land-based MRSAM, along with the infrastructure of command, control, training and support facilities to support additional four groups in the future.

2017 was a milestone for the programme, moving to full scale production.

Embracing the government’s ‘Make in India’ policy, India’s Bharat Electronics (BEL) was nominated as the prime contractor and lead integrator position for the production and delivery of the systems to

the Navy, Army and Air Force. IAI stepped down to the lead sub-contractor position and continues to supply systems and components to BEL. Despite the change, the further growth is expected to maintain the momentum.

IAI regards the program as one of its primary growth engines, as Barak 8 has gained contractual commitments surpassing $6 billion in sales world-wide.

As other large-scale programs, MRSAM relies on local production and participation. To meet these obligations IAI has transferred to India large work share to enable Indian companies to join the program as sub-contractors. Over 40 Indian suppliers are already involved in the program. Sub-systems and components are developed and manufactured in India and delivered to assembly lines at IAI and BEL. IAI also leads the vision to establish centralised national MRSAM infrastructure that will provide Indian services incountry, self-reliance for maintenance and repair for the next decades. This tri-service center will ensure the Indian independence in MRSAM through a joint venture with a local Indian company. SP

>> Indigenization

Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates India’s First Private Sector Armoured Complex Currently manufacturing K9 Vajra-T howitzers, L&T seeks to make tanks & combat vehicles at this facility Photograph: PIB

 Vishal Thapar

D

emonstrating momentum to his Government’s ‘Make in India’ agenda for military equipment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 19 inaugurated India’s first private sector facility for making tanks, armoured vehicles and artillery guns at Hazira in Gujarat.

Larsen & Toubro’s Armoured Systems Complex (ASC), in the course of its inauguration by the Prime Minister, showcased before him the K9 Vajra-T self-propelled tracked howitzer that it being manufactured there currently. One hundred of these 155mm, 52 calibre artillery guns will be supplied to the Indian Army to give punch and mobility to its firepower along the borders in the deserts and the plains.

“Boosting ‘Make in India’ in the Defence sector is our endeavour. I am glad that the private sector too is supporting this pursuit and making a valuable contribution,” Modi tweeted after inaugurating the complex.

“I congratulate the entire team of Larsen & Toubro for building the state-of-the-art K9 Vajra Self Propelled Howtizer. This is a significant contribution towards India’s defence sector and protecting the country,” he added.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was also present on the occasion at the complex, where L&T also famously manufactured the hulls for India’s indigenous ballistic missile firing nuclear-powered Arihant class SSBN submarines at a neighbouring facility.

The ASC is spread over 40 acres within L&T’s 755-acre Hazira manufacturing complex.

“L&T has been supplying critical high technology equipment to the Indian Navy from Hazira and the ASC will now, in addition, address the needs of the Indian Army and friendly Nations to whom Govt of India promotes Defence Manufacturing Partnership,” said S. N. Subrahmanyan, the engineering giant’s CEO and MD. The armoured facility is L&T’s 10th manufacturing unit for Defence production, and its seventh raised over the past decade.

“I congratulate the entire team of Larsen & Toubro for building the stateof-the-art K-9 Vajra Self Propelled Howitzer. This is a significant contribution towards Indiaís defence sector and protecting the country.”

—Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Twitter

L&T describes its ASC as a state-ofthe-art facility with a capability to make, besides artillery guns, futuristic tanks and armoured vehicles under the Army’s Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCV) and Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICV) programmes. Besides high-end machinery and automation aids and feeder shops, it has fullfledged mobility Test Tracks for acceptance and qualification of armoured vehicles.

The `4,366 crore contract for the K9 Vajra-T guns is the largest awarded to a private sector company by the Ministry of Defence. L&T, in partnership with South Korean Hanwha, was declared the winner in a global procurement competition for these guns. Hanhwa is providing key technologies for this gun programme.

“The (K9-Vajra-T) programme embodies the spirit of the Government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative by large scale indigenous production of various equipment and systems for cost efficient through life support, through in-house development as well as transfer of technology, and judicious mix of L&T’s in-house manufacturing facilities as well as multiple tiers supply chain. L&T Defence has played a catalyst’s role in developing the ecosystem of partners mainly from the MSME sector,” said J.D. Patil, L&T’s Senior EVP (Defence).

One 100 guns have been contracted to be delivered in 42 months, along with an associated engineering support package covering spares, documentation and training and Maintenance Transfer of Technology to the Army Base Workshop to support the K9-Vajra regiments throughout their life cycle. Having delivered the first 10 systems ahead of schedule, this complex is poised to deliver the balance 90 within the next 22 months.

L&T is delivering these guns with 50 per cent indigenous content by value. The Make in India package involves local production of over 13,000 components per gun system through a supply chain of about 400 Tier-I manufacturers, 100 of which are MSMEs. Fourteen critical sub-systems have been developed indigenously by L&T, including the Fire Control System, Direct Fire System, and the Ammunition Handling System.

Auxiliary Power Packs, Air-conditioning Systems, Fire Fighting Systems, and NBC Protection Systems have also been developed in-house.

L&T’s Hazira Complex is among the few facilities in the world that produces extralarge offshore modules, reactor-end shields and steam generators for nuclear power plants, high-end equipment for the hydrocarbon, thermal power and Defence segments, as also ultra-clean special steels and heavy Forgings.

At Hazira, L&T Defence manufactures submarine hulls and range of platform specific equipment and subsystems and special alloy forgings for Defence applications. At its Advanced Composites Facility in Ranoli, Gujarat, it makes critical composite sub systems for India’s Space Launch Vehicles and sub systems for BrahMos and Akash missiles. SP

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting L&T’s Armoured Systems Complex in Surat, Gujarat

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>> technology

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

 Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd)

mid-position “off ” feature. Adjusters provide positive-click reticle movement in ½-MOA increments and require no special tools for operation. Sights on a target rifle are adjustable in units of measurement called minutes of angle (MOA). Multi-coated lenses provide superior clarity and light-gathering capabilities with zero distortion and provide for a crisp dot reticle. Dry nitrogen-filled to prevent fogging. MRO Red Dot: 5 years of continuous use at day setting “3” (setting 5 of 8) at 70°F; MRO Green Dot: 1 year of continuous use at day setting “3” (setting 5 of 8) at 70°F. Electronics are warranted for 5 years from date of original manufacture. The Trijicon MRO® was specifically engineered with a slightly canted objective lens, allowing for a shorter optic while minimising reflections. MRO Patrol Lens caps protect glass from damage and help reduce glare and reflection.

T

rijicon offers optics that are designed to help individuals and security personnel to defend people and property they are tasked to protect. They can carry out this role quickly and efficiently if they can first defend themselves. For those large number of personnel from military and law enforcement agencies who carry out protection duties; Trijicon offers optical and iron sights which are reliable under the toughest conditions. They are also designed to be easy to handle by civilians, giving everyday citizens the confidence they need when confronted with a life-threatening situation.

Model Options Trijicon offers a large variety of models which suit multiple threat scenarios and budgets. In the Magnified Optics, it offers Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight (ACOG), AccuPoint and AccuPower. In the reflex sights there are four models to choose from i.e. MRO, Reflex, RMR and SRS. In the Iron Sights there are- Bright and Tough Night Sight, HD Night Sight, HD XR Night Sight and Trigidot. All these sights are very versatile and can be used with a variety of hand held weapons.

Details of some models-one from each type are given below:

Trijicon HD XR™ Night Sights

www.spslandforces.com

Trijicon AccuPower® The Trijicon AccuPower is a versatile, variable powered riflescope with an electronic illuminated reticle. Featuring a high quality lens system with full multi-layer coatings, the AccuPower provides an incredibly clear sight picture. Due to multi-coating on the lenses they provide superior clarity and lightgathering capability with zero distortion.

The First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle is 1-8x28 and 4.5-30x56 FFP and the reticle subtensions and used for ranging and wind, and will remain constant at any magnification, allowing the user to rapidly apply the correct hold. 1-8 is the magnification range and 28 is the diameter of the objective (front) lens in millimeters. The same definition is applicable to all such specifications. Second focal plane (SFP) reticle size remains constant as magnification increases, which provides a more exact aiming point at higher magnifications. The reticle illumination is powered by a single CR2032 lithium battery and has an easy-to-operate brightness adjustment dial with eleven brightness settings and an “off ” feature between each setting. The AccuPower features a hard anodized aluminum body that protects against corrosion and is waterproof to ten feet (3m). It is also has an all-weather rugged construction which protects the sight from adverse weather conditions. Dry nitrogen is filled to prevent fogging. With a generous adjustment range for windage and elevation, precise adjustment increments, and a re-settable zero, the AccuPower riflescope delivers the precision required for pinpoint accuracy. Electronics carries a warranty for 5 years from date of original manufacture. They have seven models ranging from 1-4x24 to 5-50 x56.

Parallax Adjustment Range for 10/20 yards to infinity is available only in the last three larger models. Parallax problems result from

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SP’s Land Forces 1/2019

(Top) Trijicon AccuPower; (above) TrijiDot.

the image from the objective not being coplanar with the reticle. The weight of the smallest model is 16.2oz (459gms) and the largest model is 36.0oz (1020.6gms).

Trijicon MRO® The Trijicon MRO® (Miniature Rifle Optic) and the MRO® patrol is a sealed miniature reflex sight intended for use on rifles, carbines and shotguns to provide fast target acquisition. The large aperture and tapered light path maximizes the viewing area and allows for better situational awareness and fast target engagement – especially from non-standard shooting positions. Combining all these features with the ambidextrous brightness controls, sub-flush adjusters, advanced lens coatings and the fully sealed, waterproof, hard anodized forged 7075-T6

With a generous adjustment range for windage and elevation, precise adjustment increments, and a re-settable zero, the AccuPower riflescope delivers pinpoint accuracy

housing ends up as the ultimate mini reflex sight on the market. There are three models of MRO® i.e. MRO®(Red Dot), MRO®(Green Dot) and MRO®(Patrol(Red Dot). The MRO® Patrol adds lens covers for both the ocular and objective lenses, along with an AntiReflection Device KillFlash® that protects you from unwanted detection or in bright conditions while eliminating glare. The front lens on the MRO, and MRO Patrol is installed at a precise angle in order to properly reflect the red dot back to the user’s eye. This angled objective lens is common to all reflex style optics. It may be more noticeable on the MRO than some other optics due to the increased size of the lens. The earlier models did have a very slight magnification of 1.05x which is within the range of competitive reflex-style sight. Responding to customer feedback Trijicon later on adjusted the magnification in MROs to have a magnification of 1.00x or no magnification. Like all reflex-style optics, the Trijicon MRO is parallax-free when the dot and target are reasonably well centered in the optic’s field-of-view, but when the reticle and target are substantially off-axis, there will be some parallax. The off-axis parallax performance of the MRO meets or exceeds that of other reflex sights of similar size.

The large viewing area allows faster target acquisition and engagement with reduced “tube effect.” The brightness control dial is equally usable by left or right-handed operators without having to remove hand from fire control. Eight brightness settings, including two night vision-compatible settings with a

Trijicon offers six sights in the Iron Sights range i.e. Bright & Tough Night Sights; Bright & Tough Suppressor Night Sights; HD Night Sights; HD XR Night Sights; Trijicon® Fiber Sights and TrijiDot® Fiber Optic Shotgun Sights. HD XR Night Sight meets the future challenges of the security forces and law enforcement agencies. Building on the features of the current HD™ Night Sight, the Trijicon HD XR™ night sight are for the next level of advanced target identification and engagement at increased distances. A thinner front sight post allows shooters to have a larger field of view which further enhances the ability to identify targets, expedite engagements and see location of hits on target at longer distances. Pistol shooters that need the advantage of a more precise engagement in any light can rely on the Trijicon HD XR™ Night Sights. Thin front post promotes a larger field of view for fast target identification and engagement at longer distances. Glow-in-the-dark, photoluminescent-painted front outline combines with a “U” notch rear and black-painted rear outlines to quickly draw your eye to the front post in all lighting conditions. Steeply hooked front surface is meant for an emergency for one-handed slide manipulation. Tritium phosphor-filled glass lamp illuminates sights for high visibility in all lighting conditions.

Tritium gas lamps are contained within protective aluminum cylinders and have additional silicone rubber cushioning. Each Trijicon®tritium lamp is capped with a sapphire jewel that helps evenly distribute the light and also acts as an additional layer of protection from puncture and cleaning solvents. Tritium lamp is warranted to illuminate for 12 years from date of original manufacture. Standard-Height models fit Beretta, FN® America, Glock®, H&K®, Sig Sauer®, Smith & Wesson and ®Springfield Armor.

Trijicon offers a vast range of proven sighting systems which can be used for varying degree of security threats. Army’s installations, which are away from the border, like unit/brigade/ base camps, logistic bases and ammunition depots are always under constant threat in the northern and eastern sector. At present they are guarded with basic rifles/machine guns with normal iron sights. So is the case of Naval and Air Force installations thus providing better quality of sights will by it self upgrade their protection capability manifold. SP

>> marketing feature

Pantsir-S1 Modular Design Air-Defence Missile-Gun System Adapted for Various Combat Employment

T

he analysis of the latest local conflicts shows that high-precision air assault weapons along with unmanned aerial vehicles are of primary importance among air threats.

The large number and high density of air threats in an air strike require the air-defence assets to provide not only high combat performance but a large ready-to-fire ammunition load and capability of its quick replenishment.

Nowadays and in the near future Pantsir-S1 Air-Defence Missile-Gun System (ADMGS) fully satisfies all requirements for fighting modern air threats thanks to the specific features of its design:  combined missile and gun armament that allows to create an entire engagement zone of up to 20 km in range and up to 15 km in altitude;  jam-proof multimode and multispectral radar-optical control system operating in decimetric, millimetric and infrared wavebands;  automatic operation;  capability to fire on the move and from short stops;  short reaction time of 4-6 sec due to automatic tracking of up to 20 targets by a search radar and high-precision target designation (0.3° in azimuth, 0.5° in elevation, 60 m – in range) providing for quick fine search and target lock-on by multifunction tracking radar and optronic system;  self-contained combat operation and coordination of actions within a battery;  simultaneous firing against four targets within a sector of ± 45 ° in azimuth and elevation.

Pantsir-S1 high performance specifications make an AD system equipped with it significantly superior over the SHORAD systems manufactured worldwide.

Pantsir-S1 underwent a large scale of live tests and proved its high performance in various conditions of combat use.

Development of the Pantsir-S1 ADMG system adapted for a wide range of Customers required solving a number of scientific and technical challenges.

Among them are:  layout and structural challenges to ensure modular design of the system;  development of the new multifunction radar for target and missile tracking;  communicational integration of the Pantsir-S1 into Customer’s Armed Forces;  development and integration of IFF system customized for the particular Customer;  development of automated day/night all-weather control system common in terms of instrumentation and featuring customized settings and combat operation algorithms according to the Customer’s requirements;  development of common ammunition load for customized variants of the system, unified SPTA and training systems.

Great R&D experience of the company provided for successful coping with all challenges and allowed designing and developing of an air-defence missile-gun system that meets the highest tactical and technical requirements and doesn’t have counterparts within the spectrum of SHORAD systems.

A novel approach in designing the Pantsir-S1 system as a modular structure pro-

vides for its installation onto various chassis including tracked one as well as for creation of stationary and sea-based variants of the system (for protecting sea oil platform, vital administrative, military-tactical and other objects), for installation of the system onto railway platforms, ensuring its integration into Customer’s existing maintenance, training and logistics systems with minimum cost. The said approach also provides for development of the system variants taking into account particular geotopographical conditions in which the system is to be used by the Customer.

Moreover, the modular design of the system ensures its capability to be upgraded in future in terms of increasing its combat efficiency with minimum cost that undoubtedly raises its commercial interest for the Customer.

Outfitting Pantsir-S1 system with the multifunction tracking radar ensuring tracking of three targets and transmission of control commands to four SAMs provided for efficient counteraction against a wide range of air threats: fixed and rotary-wing aircraft at stand-off ranges, small-size guided missiles and bombs as well as remotely piloted UAVs. Thanks to development of a single multimode and multispectral radar-optical control system operating in dm, mm, and IR wavebands, featuring a multifunction tracking radar as one of its components, high jamming immunity of the system was achieved and, as a consequence, drastic increase of combat efficiency was obtained.

Current practice of using air-defence missile-gun systems sets forth very strict requirements on their absolute informational integration into Customer’s existing AD system.

The said requirements are determined by the following factors:  mandatory availability of the same target environment at all levels and all compo-

nents of a common air-defence system; geotopographical conditions dictate the necessity of flexible target distribution both between combat vehicles (CVs) within a battery and within a common air-defence system;  continuous growth of high-precision weapons and UAVs among air threats imposes a specific requirements to the use of anti-aircraft systems consisting in capability of combat vehicle operation without radar emission getting the required data from neighboring CVs and remote search radars.

Availability of mapping computer with digital maps ensures efficient automatic planning of combat actions taking into account particular geotopographical conditions of the Customer.

The task of protecting the transmitted data from jamming was successfully solved.

When a command post is used as a part of the system an increase in data transmission range (up to 20 km) is obtained and interfacing with all types of Customer’s existing command posts is provided without major modifications.

Adherence to modular concept was applied not only to design of the system but to its software as well. That was the way to solve the issues of integration into IFF system existing with each of the Customers. The issue of upgrading the IFF system in case the Customer’s decision to change it was also worked out.

The use of the self-contained day/night all-weather control system significantly increases engagement zone in all conditions, reduces psychophysical load on the crew, minimizes human factor in tough and strained combat environment.

The following specific problems were solved for the particular Customers:  search radar operation without false  complicated

tracks in conditions of complicated terrain pattern;  targets detection over water and even desert surface;  determination of optimum frequencyspatial separation to provide electromagnetic compatibility, within the existing AD system as well, taking into consideration particular topographical pattern of the Customer;  integration into Customer’s existing IFF system;  minimizing of time required for shaping of search and track zones by a topographic map (with limited resolution in azimuth) thanks to the use of built-in mapping computer and digital maps of the particular Customer;  integration into Customer’s existing airdefence system and creation of a potential for AD system development basing on the combat actions control principle implemented in Pantsir-S1 ADMGS;  implementation of various ways of SAMs destruction ensuring safety of their use according to Customer’s requirements: a) air-blast initiated by a command on climb trajectory; b) air-blast initiated by a command on dive trajectory; c) dive trajectory without air-blast, destruction by ground impact.

Modular structure, unification of units and assemblies design ensure successful integration into Customer’s existing chassis maintenance system, supply of maximum unified individual, common, and basestored SPTA kits, arrangement of service centers and crews training system.

Constant combat readiness of the Pantsir-S1 system is ensured by built-in test equipment in each combat and maintenance vehicle.

Modular design allows to develop various variants of the system and install it onto a range of chassis as well as to develop its stationary modifications.

The system can be installed onto lightly armoured vehicles and can be used as lethal air-transportable AD asset. It can also be mounted on wheeled and tracked chassis in Air Force Air Defence Units and on Navy ships.

Nowadays and in the near future PantsirS1 ADMGS fully satisfies all requirements for successful fighting modern air threats.

Appropriateness of the implemented technical solutions and high performance specifications of the Pantsir system were proved by acceptance trials and State Tests, more than 500 SAM launches were performed, serial production is established.

For several years already Pantsir combat vehicles march down the Red Square as a participants of the Victory Day Parade, a battery of Pantsir-S1 CVs many times took part in a Parade on occasion of Republic of the Republic of Belarus Independence Day in the city of Minsk.

The Pantsir system was shown at a number of international defence exhibitions (IDEX, MAKS and others).

In the near future and in the long-term outlook the Pantsir-S1 ADMGS will remain a reliable asset capable to ensure protection of airspace from all types of air threats. SP The advertorial is based on article of A.A. Zubarev, A.A. Nikiforov

1/2019 SP’s Land Forces

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>> TECHNOLOGY

Trijicon Combat Optics The ACOG is designed to be extremely durable and reliable. It combines traditional, precise distance marksmanship with Close Quarter Battle (CQB) speed. Many variants include a bullet drop compensated (BDC) reticle.

Photograph: Trijicon

 Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd)

Features an automatic brightness mode and easy push buttons for eight adjustable brightness settings including 2 NV and 1 super bright.

Battery. CR2032 battery which lasts up to 4 years at a brightness setting of 4 out of 8.

Button Lockout. This sets RMR into automatic mode to prevent accidental adjustments.

Battery Conservation Mode. This mode automatically adjusts aiming dot to ambient lighting conditions after 16.5 hours.

Trijicon ACOG®

www.spslandforces.com

The Trijicon Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight (ACOG) is a fixed power, compact riflescope with an illuminated reticle pattern for use in bright to low/no light. The ACOG is designed to be extremely durable and reliable. It combines traditional, precise distance marksmanship with Close Quarter Battle (CQB) speed. Many variants include a bullet drop compensated (BDC) reticle. Every feature of its design was chosen for with the aim of providing increased hit potential in all lighting conditions. It is available in 12 models ranging from 1.5x16S to 6x48 where the first figure indicates the magnification and the second figure indicates the diameter of the objective (front) lens in millimeters which is important because it controls how much light the scope can let in, and ultimately transmit to your eye.

Features Battery-Free Illumination.

Most ACOG®models feature a tritium/fiber optic illuminated reticle that automatically adjusts the brightness based on available light.

Rugged aluminum-alloy housing.

Forged 7075-T6 aircraft-aluminum-alloy housing provides for a nearly indestructible sighting system.

“Both Eyes Open” Design. The ACOG®can be used as a CQB sight when shooting with “both eyes open,” utilising the Bindon Aiming Concept. Human vision is based upon a binocular (two eyes) presentation of visual evidence to the brain. The word binocular literally means using both eyes at the same time. Several ACOG models are designed to be used with the “Bindon Aiming Concept”, an aiming technique developed by Trijicon founder and optical designer Glyn Bindon. The technique is essentially uses the illuminated part of the reticle and its focusing rear eyepiece as a collimator sight (a collimator sight is a type of optical sight that allows the user looking into it to see an illuminated aiming point aligned with the device the sight is attached to, regardless of eye position).

Superior Quality Glass Lenses.

Multi-coated lenses provide superior clarity and light-gathering capabilities with zero distortion.

Fixed Magnification. Fewer moving parts provide more durability than a variable optics. Seven magnifications are available to include 1.5x, 2x, 3x, 3.5x, 4x, 5.5x, and 6.

Bullet Drop Compensating and Ranging Reticles. Bullet drop compensation (BDC) (sometimes referred to as ballistic elevation) is a feature available on some rifle scopes. The feature compensates for the effect of gravity on the bullet at given distances (referred to as “bullet drop”) in flat fire scenarios. The feature must be tuned for the particular ballistic trajectory of a particular combination of gun and cartridge at a predefined muzzle velocity and air density.

BDC is available in most models.of ACOG®.

Combat Proven. ACOG® is combat proven as it has been extensively used in battle.

Shock-resistant. Proven to withstand recoil from a .22LR (.22 Long Rifle or simply .22 LR is a very popular variety of .22 caliber rimfire ammunition, and in terms of units sold is still by far the most common ammunition in the world today and its velocity varies from subsonic to hyper sonic)

14

SP’s Land Forces 1/2019

ADJUSTABLE LED RMR®

Trijicon VCOG®

Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight)

to a .50BMG (.50 Browning Machine Gun cartridge was developed for the Browning .50 calibre machine gun in the late 1910s, entering official service in 1921. The cartridge itself has been made in many variants: multiple generations of regular ball, tracer, armor-piercing (AP), incendiary, and saboted sub-caliber rounds. The .50 BMG cartridge is also used in long-range target and anti-materiel rifles, as well as other .50-caliber machine guns. It is in service till today) and everything in between. It easily passes US Military drop test requirements.

Waterproof. Exceptional waterproof performance up to 100 Meters (328 ft.).

Anti-Fogging. Dry nitrogen-filled to eliminate fogging.

Warranty. Tritium lamp is warranted to illuminate for 15 years on fiber optic scopes and 10 years on non-fiber optic scopes.

ACOG®/RMR®Combo This is the Ultimate Sight for CQB and Long Distance as he dual-sighting system gives the shooter a distinct tactical advantage with the option of either the Trijicon ACOG®or the RMR®. For quick target acquisition, choose the RMR®Type 2 LED; Type 2 Adjustable LED or RMR®Dual-Illuminated sight. For accuracy and pinpoint bullet placement at a distance, choose the magnified ACOG. You have the best of both worlds. No separate tools are required for windage and elevation adjustments because the ACOG also features external windage and elevation adjusters.

Trijicon RMR® Features in all RMR®Sights Versatile Sight. Multiple primary applications including rifle, pistol, shotgun and carbine, or use as a secondary sight with a magnified optic.

Unique Patented Housing Shape.

Military-grade aluminum alloy forged housing shape diverts force of impact away from the lens thus greatly increasing its durability.

True-Color Multi-Coated Lens. Creates a wide-band light transmission for minimal change in target area color.

Parallax. It is Parallax free.

Adjustable Windage/Elevation. Both the parameters are easily adjustable without special tools. The unit is 1 MOA per click. (Sights on a target rifle are adjustable in units of measurement called minutes of angle (MOA) which is equal to 1/60 of a degree (there are 360 degrees in a circle).

Water Proof. It can operate up to 20

m(66 ft.) under the water.

Warranty. Tritium lamp carries a warranty of 15 years from date of original manufacture (Dual-Illuminated RMR). Electronics carry a warranty of 5 years from date of original manufacture (LED & Adjustable LED RMR).

Trijicon Battery-Free Technology.

Tritium-phosphor lamp illuminates reticle in low-light conditions and fiber optics automatically adjust the brightness level and contrast to available light conditions.

Trijicon battery-free technology.

Tritium-phosphor lamp illuminates reticle in low-light conditions and fibre optics automatically adjust the brightness leveland contrast to available light conditions.

RMR Type 2 RMR Type 2 has three models- LED; Adjustable LED and Dual-Illuminated.

RMR Type 2 includes a button lock mode, and battery saving features, which make this optic ideal for concealed carry and Law Enforcement use. The Trijicon RMR is extremely versatile as a primary optic on handguns, rifles, carbines and shotguns.

When paired with a magnified optic, the RMR is an excellent solution as a secondary CQB optic, and as a backup sight. Trijicon RMR®Type 2 is designed to be as durable as the Trijicon ACOG®, while also improving precision and accuracy with any style or calibre of firearm. A pistol mounted Trijicon RMR Type 2 allows you to shoot more accurately at longer distances by focusing your attention on the target, not the combination of your front post, rear post, and target. It is designed with a patented housing shape that absorbs impacts and diverts stresses away from the lens to increase durability. It also offers redesigned and upgraded electronics that have been proven to perform when mounted on slide ride pistols and other small arms. It’s suitable for military, law enforcement, concealed carry self-defence, target shooting, and hunting applications. When paired with a magnified optic, the RMR is an excellent solution as a secondary CQB optic, and as a backup sight.

Features Reticle adjustments. Automatically adjusts the illuminated reticle to available light conditions.

Battery. CR2032 battery which lasts 2 years of typical use and 5 years in dark storage.

The Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) is a rugged variable powered riflescope with an LED illuminated first focal plane BDC reticle. The VCOG is designed for extreme durability and features superior glass quality. The magnification range accommodates CQB and long distance marksmanship. The VCOG is a MIL-spec grade optic, robust enough for any application. It has two models-1-6x24 (with Thumbscrew Mount) and 1-6x24 (with Quick-Release Mount). 1-6 implies that the magnification can be adjusted from 1 to 6.

Features First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle. It allows user to rapidly acquire target and apply correct hold throughout magnification range.

Superior Quality Glass. Multi-coated lenses provide superior clarity and lightgathering capabilities with zero distortion.

Rugged Aluminum-Alloy Housing.

Forged 7075-T6 aircraft-aluminum-alloy housing provides for a nearly indestructible sighting system.

Illuminated Reticle. Powered by a single AA battery. The AA battery also called a double A or Mignon battery is a standard size single cell cylindrical dry battery which lasts upto 10 times longer vs Ordinary Zinc Carbon Batteries.

BDC and Universal Reticles. Shooter can choose from Bullet Drop Compensating (BDC) and Ranging reticles for quick and accurate range estimation or Universal MIL and MOA reticles to accommodate multiple calibres, ammunition weights and barrel lengths.

Easy-To-Set Adjusters. Adjustments are easy and precise without requiring any tools.

Rings. The need for conventional ring mounts is eliminated with the integrated mounting adapter that provides quick and easy mounting to any rail system. Compatible with many rails in use and designed to fit the Trijicon ACOG®.

Rugged and Durable. Tested to MILSTD-810G which are approved by the US Department of Defense.

Adjustable Brightness Settings. There are six user-selectable brightness settings.

Quick Magnification Adjustments.

An integrated dial fin allows easy rotation through magnification settings.

Constant Eye Relief. No head or stock adjustments required throughout entire magnification range.

Waterproof. Up to 20 m(66 ft.).

Anti Fogging. Dry nitrogen is filled to eliminate fogging.

Limited Lifetime Warranty. Electronics are warranted for 5 years from date of original manufacture. SP

>> News in Brief India Africa Field Training Exercise (IAFTX)- 2019 The final planning conference to work out the modalities for Indian Africa Field Training Exercise (IAFTX)-2019 was conducted at Pune from January 23-24, 2019. Delegates from Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Sudan, South Africa, Tanzania, Namibia, Mozambique, Uganda, Niger and Zambia attended the conference.

IAFTX-2019 is scheduled to be conducted at Aundh Military Station and College of Military Engineering, Pune from March 18- 27, 2019. The joint training exercise is being conducted with more than a dozen African countries & India. It aims at synergising humanitarian mine action and joint peace operations. The initial planning conference for the exercise was held in December 2018.

multiple rocket launchers. The A-100 is a 300 mm, 10-tube multiple rocket launcher, developed by Beijing-based China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology. The A-100 rocket is 7.3 meters long, weighs 840 kg, carries a 235 kg warhead, and is stabilized by spin, thrust, and stabilizing fins. It has a range of over 100 km. The Pakistan Army is surrounded by two hostile neighbors on the Eastern and Western side. The rockets will mainly be stationed towards India, which lies on the Eastern side.

The Royal Thai Army to acquire more VT-4 main battle tanks

Quadcopter developed by Indian Army Two Indian Army Soldiers have developed an armed UAV for the Indian Army. The armed quadcopter prototype was a long-pending requirement of the armed forces. The quadcopter was displayed at the Army Technology Seminar in New Delhi on January 11,2019 and has been previously deployed during live operations along the Line of Control between India and Pakistan and counterterrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

No defense service in India possess armed drones, making this a historic innovation in the history of the Indian Army.

Trial of Rafael’s Trophy Active Protection System

vehicles for transporting Patriot air defence systems made by Rheinmetall’s partner Raytheon. Starting in the first quarter of 2021, Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) will supply Sweden with a total of forty high-mobility trucks from its HX series, including 16 tractor trucks and 24 transport vehicles. The order is in the double-digit million-euro range. The latest order placed with RMMV for transport vehicles for the Patriot air defence system is in line with the vehicle family concept; moreover, it underscores the customer’s satisfaction with these tried-and-tested “military-offthe-shelf ” vehicles. The latest generation of HX2 vehicles fulfils all the criteria modern logistic vehicles are expected to meet: maximum mobility, ruggedness, versatility and the ability to handle even the worst roads and toughest terrain.

SAAB’s Laser warning system

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) is seeking cabinet approval to acquire more VT-4 main battle tanks (MBTs) made by the China North Industries Corporation (Norinco).

If the government approves the proposal, the RTA will own 52 VT-4s. The VT-4 main battle tank, previously known as the MBT-3000, is armed with a 125 millimeter smoothbore cannon to engage armored personnel carriers, main battle tanks, infantry forces, military installations, light vehicles and low-flying helicopters. A remotely operated 12.7mm anti-aircraft machine gun and a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun comprise the secondary armament. At the end of 2017, Thailand became the first VT-4 export partner, with a 28 tank delivery.

Saab has launched its laser warning system portfolio for land and naval applications in the US market. The Laser Warning System consists of sensors and a laser warning controller and it can interface with the vessel’s or vehicle’s command management system as well as with onboard countermeasures in order to provide early warning and protection against threats. Saab’s Naval LaserWarning System is capable of detecting and analyzing lasers in blue-water and littoral combat environments and is already utilized by the German Army. Both, the Naval and Land variants of the laser warning system are currently in production for multiple Saab customers world-wide.

Russia’s Borisoglebsk-2 electronic warfare complex enters service

Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems will carry out trials of its Trophy Active Protection System (APS) on the Leopard 2 main battle tank this year. Trophy is a military APS for vehicles, that intercepts and destroys incoming missiles and rockets with a shotgun-like blast. Its primary purpose is to supplement the armour of light and heavy armored fighting vehicles. It is the only fully operational and combat-proven APS in the world. The Leopard 2 is a main battle tank operated by the German Army.

Induction of Rocket for Pakistan’s Army

US Army contract for flameresistant combat boots

The Pakistan Army’s artillery corps has inducted a Chinese rocket as part of its

The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support contracted McRae Industries Inc. with $9.9 million for flame-resistant combat boots. McRae Industries’ Footwear division provides quality combat boots to the US Army. During the Vietnam War McRae received a contract award from the US government to manufacture military combat boots for the US Army using the “direct molded sole” (DMS) design. The award is a firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. Work is scheduled to be completed by January 8, 2020.

>> Show Calendar 17–21 February International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) 2019 ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, UAE https://idexuae.ae 20–24 February Aero India Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru, India https://aeroindia.gov.in/Aero-India

Swedish Army Orders Rheinmetall HX Heavy Trucks

26–30 March LIMA 2019 MIEC, LangkawiThe Resorts World, Langkawi, Malaysia www.limaexhibition.com 30 April–3May International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) Tüyap Istanbul Fair and Congress Center, Turkey http://idef.com.tr/en

Rheinmetall has been awarded a contract from the Swedish armed forces to supply

Senior Editorial Contributor Lt General P.C. Katoch (Retd) Senior Technical Group Editor Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd) Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd) Group Associate Editor Vishal Thapar Contributors India General V.P. Malik (Retd), Lt General Vijay Oberoi (Retd), Lt General R.S. Nagra (Retd), Lt General S.R.R. Aiyengar (Retd), Major General Ashok Mehta (Retd), Major General G.K. Nischol (Retd), Brigadier Gurmeet Kanwal (Retd), Brigadier S. Mishra (Retd), Rohit Sharma Chairman & Managing Director Jayant Baranwal Executive Vice President (Planning & Business Development) Rohit Goel Administration Bharti Sharma Asst-Admin, HR & Infra Pooja Tehlani Creative Director Anoop Kamath Design Vimlesh Kumar Yadav, Sonu Singh Bisht Research Assistant: Graphics Survi Massey Sales & Marketing Director Sales & Marketing: Neetu Dhulia General Manager Sales: Rajeev Chugh SP’s Website Sr. Web Developer: Shailendra P. Ashish Web Developer: Ugrashen Vishwakarma Published bimonthly by Jayant Baranwal on behalf of SP Guide Publications Pvt Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, recording, electronic, or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publishers.

MBDA’s Doyenne Portée anti-tank guided missile The MBDA Missile Systems’ medium-range missile Doyenne Portée was successfully deployed in Mali by the French Army for the first time. Missile Doyenne Portée is a man-portable anti-tank guided missile intended as a replacement for the MILAN. The Picardy Battle Group used the missile for the first time in a combat environment in December. A six-person crew delivered the system by armored car, then installed it at the top of a ridge in southeastern Mali’s three-border region and successfully fired it.

MBDA had successfully tested the Naval version of the Missile in Djibouti in November.

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Jayant Baranwal

Printed in India

by Kala Jyothi Process Pvt Ltd © SP Guide Publications, 2019

A motorised rifle unit has received the Borisoglebsk-2 electronic warfare(EW) complex which compromises of several stations based on a multi-purpose armored all-terrain vehicle. Compared with its predecessors, it has an extended frequency range of radio intelligence and electronic jamming. More powerful EW stations EW can more effectively influence various types of radio-controlled objects.

The Borisglebsk-2 can jam control channels of unmanned aerial vehicles, radiocontrolled landmines of the adversary. The personnel of the unit have already been trained on the new EW system.

Rheinmetall and BAE Systems’ joint venture Rheinmetall and BAE Systems announced on January 21 that they have signed an agreement to create a joint UK-based military vehicle design, manufacturing and support business. The new Joint Venture will be headquartered at BAE Systems’ facility in Telford, England and will sustain over 400 jobs in the UK, as well as preserve key technology and engineering skills. Rheinmetall will purchase a 55 per cent stake in the existing BAE Systems UK based combat vehicles business, with BAE Systems retaining 45 per cent. The establishment of the new Joint Venture is subject to regulatory approvals which are anticipated to be completed in the first half of 2019. Once the approvals have been completed, the Joint Venture will be known as Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL). SP

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1/2019 SP’s Land Forces

15

MAKE THE FIRST ROUND COUNT.

©2019 Trijicon, Inc. | Wixom, MI USA | 1-800-338-0563 | 19TRIJ12969-R19 | trijicon.com

*Shown with optional 3x magnifier

T Trijicon MGRS

®

Significantly increase your first-round hit probability with the Trijicon® Machine Gun Reflex Sight. The MGRS® was designed specifically to aid the machine gunner in rapid target acquisition while maintaining situational awareness by keeping both eyes open.

This non-magnified optic mounts to both M2 and M240 machine guns and provides enhanced accuracy and performance.

• Large objective lens with 3 in. x 2 in. viewing area allows users to

rapidly acquire targets • Interchangeable ranging dials for increased flexibility • 35 MOA-Segmented circle with 3 MOA Dot for increased

probability of first-round hits • Forged 7075-T6 aluminum housing to perform in punishing conditions

View the technology at Trijicon.com/MGRS.