august/september 2016. Issue 04.
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2
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 www.armadainternational.com
06
LAND WARFARE
Shoot and Scoot Stephen W. Miller takes the temperature of the selfpropelled artillery domain, and examines some of the leading programmes and technological innovations.
12 land WARFARE
Smart Logistics Logistics vehicles and tactical trucks need protection on today’s battlefield. Stephen W. Miller investigates some offerings aimed at protecting these vehicles.
18 sea power
Protecting the Air from the Sea Trevor Hollingsbee examines the latest developments across several major air defence frigate and destroyer programmes worldwide.
24 FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES
How Not To Be Seen Nature has known about camouflage for millennia, armed forces for slightly less time. Andrew White explores some of the latest innovations in concealment technology.
28 land WARFARE
Chemical Memory Chilling yet pertinent analysis from Andy Oppenheimer regarding the CBRN threat from non-state actors, and the available protective equipment.
COMPEN ATIONAL ADA INTERN AN ARM
34 AIR power
COIN Operated Thomas Newdick examines several light combat aircraft, explaining the contributions that they can make to low-intensity operations.
40 Programme Focus
The Generation Game Russia’s new PAK-FA aircraft falls under the spotlight with Thomas Newdick examining the developmental trials and tribulations of this new fighter.
46 TURING
The Other End of the Line Andy Oppenheimer examines ISIS’ use of the Internet as a recruit-ment and propaganda tool, and the international response to its actions.
PLEMENT DIUM SUP
Armada compendium 2016/17
: The
new EW
rce for
sou TrusTed
defence
lysis
ogy ana
Technol
7/29/16
12:38 PM
indd 1
Aug/Sept.
War in the Ether Thomas Withington presents Armada’s first airborne electronic warfare supplement which provides a detailed overview of the state-ofthe-art of this complex discipline.
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
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INDEX TO ADVERTISERS ARMADA SUSCRIPTION ARMADA WEBSITE ON THE COVER: Artillery falls under Armada’s spotlight in Stephen W. Miller’s Shoot and Scoot article in this issue.
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MTU 15
COVER 3
NEXTER 17
5
OTOKAR 31
AR – MODULAR ASELSAN
COVER 4
Published bi-monthly by Media Transasia Ltd. Copyright 2012 by Media Transasia Ltd. Publishing Office: Media Transasia Ltd., 1603, 16/F, Island Place Tower, 510 King’s Road, Hong Kong Editor: Thomas Withington General Manager: Jakhongir Djalmetov International Marketing Manager: Roman Durksen Digital Manager: David Siriphonphutakun Sales & Marketing Coordinator: Wajiraprakan Punyajai Graphic Designer: Khakanaa Suwannawong Production Manager: Kanda Thanakornwongskul Group Circulation Manager: Porames Chinwong
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CIPRA 43
RAYTHEON
DEFENSE & SECURITY
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ROSOBORONEXPORT 20,21,33,37
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UKRSPECEXPORT 9
ELBIT
Volume 42 , Issue No. 4, August/September 2016
RADIO COMPENDIUM
ELETTRONICA
COVER 3
US/CANADA BORDER
IAI
COVER 4
CONFERENCE
IDEAS PAKISTAN FLIR
31 COVER 2
KONGSBERG 11
COVER 2
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VECTRONIX 27 Entries highlighted with Red Numbers are found in Electronic Warfare Supplement.
THIS MONTH ON ARMADAINTERNATIONAL.COM
Chairman: J.S. Uberoi President: Egasith Chotpakditrakul Chief Financial Officer: Sasakorn Dumavibhat Advertising Sales Offices FRANCE Odile Orbec - Promotion et Motivation Tel: +33 1 41 43 83 00, o.orbec@pema-group.com GERMANY, AUSTRIA, BENELUX, SWITZERLAND Sam Baird Tel: +44 1883 715 697, sam@whitehillmedia.com ITALY, NORDIC COUNTRIES Emanuela Castagnetti-Gillberg Tel: +46 31 799 9028, emanuela.armada@gmail.com UK, EASTERN EUROPE, TURKEY Zena Coupé Tel: +44 1923 852537, zena@expomedia.biz RUSSIA Alla Butova - NOVO-Media Ltd Tel: (7 3832) 180 885 Mobile: (7 960) 783 6653 alla@mediatransasia.com USA (EAST/SOUTH EAST), Canada (EAst) Margie Brown Tel: (540) 341 7581, margiespub@rcn.com
■ CARAVAN ■ Gun
Truckin’
We examine Nextel’s CAESAR self-propelled howitzer.
OF DEATH
The AC-208B gets its claws significantly sharpened.
USA (WEST/SOUTH WEST), BRAZIL, Canada (WEst) Diane Obright Tel: (858) 759 3557, blackrockmediainc@icloud.com ALL OTHER COUNTRIES Jakhongir Djalmetov Mobile: +66 81 645 5654, joha@mediatransasia.com Roman Durksen roman@mediatransasia.com Tel: +66 2204 2370, Mob: +66 98 252 6243
Controlled circulation: 25,278 (average per issue) certified by ABC Hong Kong, for the period 1st January 2015 to 31st December 2015. Printed by Media Transasia Ltd., 75/8, 14th Floor, Ocean Tower II, Soi Sukhumvit 19, Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110, Thailand. Tel: 66 (0)-2204 2370, Fax: 66 (0)-2204 2390 -1 Annual subscription rates: Europe: CHF 222 (including postage) Rest of the World: USD 222 (including postage) Subscription Information: Readers should contact the following address: Subscription Department, Media Transasia Ltd., 75/8, 14th Floor, Ocean Tower II, Soi Sukhumvit 19, Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110, Thailand. Tel +66 2204 2370 Fax: +66 2204 2387 Email: accounts@mediatransasia.com
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■ FCAS
Developments
The German Air Force examines its future fighter options.
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
■ Guided
Rockets Advance
We look at how accuracy of rockets is becoming scalpel-sharp.
Editorial Careful What You Wish For
O
n 23 June, the United Kingdom billion towards the end of the decade in 2018/19. voted to leave the European Meanwhile, the Institute of Fiscal Studies, a Union (EU). While the security London-based think tank, has warned that the implications of this decision so-called ‘Brexit’ decision, and the uncertainty may not be immediately ap- this has now generated in the UK and internaparent, there are potential implications none- tional business communities over whether the theless for this momentous decision. UK will continue to obtain access to the EU’s The editorial of the previous Armada (June/ single market, could see a reduction in the UK’s July) extolled the virtues of the EU and stated Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by between 2.1 this publication’s desire for the UK to continue percent to 3.9 percent in the 2018/19 timeframe. its membership. Nevertheless, British voters A reduction in GDP could mean a reduction thought otherwise with 51.8 percent wishing to in government spending with less tax revenues leave the EU, as opposed to the 48.1 who wished to go around. This could have an impact on deto remain. The defence implications of the UK’s fence at a time when the UK is having to spend decision are nuanced. Should the government big on a number of important procurements, activate Article 50 of the Treaty on European notably the Lockheed Martin F-35B LightningUnion, the mechanism for departing from the II fighter for the Royal Navy and the Royal Air club, the primary short-term impact could be Force, the Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime paeconomic. trol aircraft for the Royal Navy, plus the new Goldman Sachs and Barclays, two major Type-26 Global Combat Ship and the so-called finance houses, both predict that the UK will ‘Successor’ class nuclear-powered ballistic misenter recession by late 2016/early 2017. Any sile submarine (SSBN) for the same service. In economic downturn could have implications total, these procurements add up to a ballpark for defence spending. A contracting economy figure of $81.1 billion, based on the reported means less government spending. A report, costs for the quantities of platforms planned published on 10 July, by the UK parliamentary for purchase. Joint Committee on National Security, which Such a figure may simply be too much for scrutinises UK defence and security policy, UK government spending to stomach in light of noted that current UK defence spending com- any contraction of the economy, and some promitments had been predicated on a 0.5 percent grammes may have to be substantially reduced, annual spending increase above the rate of in- if not scrapped completely. No wonder Russian flation. This was expected to take UK defence President Vladimir Putin welcomed the Brexit Thomas Withington, Editor spending from $45.3 billion for 2015/16 to $50.3 result.
AD
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
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US Army
Land WARFARE
For many years self-propelled artillery, though more mobile, was employed in the same manner as towed guns typically used in batteries of six to eight guns that moved into pre-surveyed positions.
Shoot AND Scoot
Land forces that have shown the ability for their ‘guns’ (field artillery) to keep up with advancing infantry and cavalry combat forces have always had a decisive advantage. This is because the ground force as a whole is able to move forward, rather than one part outrunning another. Stephen W. Miller
U
nlike mechanized artillery, towed guns need to uncouple from their prime mover to fire and have limited off-road mobility. This means that they cannot be as responsive to the indirect fire demands of mechanized combat units particularly during the offensive, compared to their mechanized counterparts. It did not take long for armies to begin fitting artillery guns onto tracked and half-tracked platforms in an attempt to provide artillery the ability to keep closer to the fighting units, once the proliferation of tracked vehicles occurred en masse during the First World
6
War. In the Second World War, mechanized artillery evolved further to provide indirect fires from vehicle-mounted howitzers as well as direct fire support by assault guns such as the Wehrmacht (Nazi Germany’s armed forces) Sturmgeschütz III tracked assault gun. There are clear tactical advantages to Self-Propelled Artillery (SPA) beyond its capability to move with a mechanized force yet there are also drawbacks. As with all military equipment there is no ‘perfect solution’ but rather a trade-off between competing characteristics. The ‘right’ system is influenced by the mission, terrain,
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
anticipated enemy and their capabilities, and the method of employment of the guns and the land force as a whole. Still there have been a number of design and equipment innovations and technologies in the last decades that have substantially multiplied the effectiveness of SPA. These in turn have influenced the way artillery is organized, employed and integrated into the larger combat force. Advances and Innovations Artillery’s role is to quickly delivery accurate and effective indirect fires against both enemy forward forces and to
RoK Army
Land WARFARE
The K-9 Thunder is the baseline design for the Turkish T-155 Fintina. The K-9 was also evaluated for the Australian Army Self Propelled gun programme which was cancelled.
artillery a new dimension in its employment and effectiveness. These enhanced capabilities cover navigation and positioning; digitized integrated networked command and control; automatic loading, automated firing solution computation and gun laying, and improved ammunition. Navigation and Positioning The Global Positioning System (GPS) geolocation satellite network coupled with
electronics miniaturization allows gunners to determine accurate location down to a personnel or individual equipment level. Yet guns, particularly Self-Propelled Howitzers (SPHs), ideally require even higher accuracy as well as reliable access and responsiveness even while moving, perhaps more than GPS can often offer. When computing advances improved and lowered costs for Inertial Navigation Systems (INS), which use computers and
KMW
suppress or destroy opposing artillery’s ability to deliver similar fires on friendly units (referred to as counter-battery). Thus, artillery must be capable of attacking targets on demand but also avoid being destroyed by enemy attempts to find, engage and neutralize themselves. The prerequisites for effective lethal artillery fires are accurately knowing your position and that of the target, rapidly computing the fire control solution, applying it to the gun, and achieving maximum destructive effect by delivering with minimum or no warning multiple rounds directly on target spaced within seconds. Having completed the fire mission it can be expected, at least against an equally technically capable opponent, that the gun position has been detected and may be targeted in return by the enemy. To preclude being taken under fire the guns must now move to a new position and then be ready to respond to new calls for fire. A common term for this sequence is ‘shoot and scoot’. SPA, unlike towed guns (see above), are most suited to this technique but accomplishing all the steps described is still challenging. However, a number of technologies have been introduced that give
The PzH2000 maximizes the use of automation in all aspects of the gun aiming, loading and firing process to both reduce the crew size and to allow the gun to undertake fire support missions as an independent unit.
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
7
Precision guided artillery projectiles like Raytheon’s Excalibur have the ability to strike targets with an accuracy of ten metres or less. When employed with a laser designator/rangefinder this can be increased to a pin-point strike.
motion sensors to determine a vehicle’s position and speed, it provided a major advance in positioning information that can now be installed on every SPH. INS units like the Safran Defence Electronics (formerly Sagem) Sigma 30, the Kearfott LandNav and those produced by ASELSAN provide better than ten metre/m (32.8 feet/ ft) position and up to one mil direction accuracy in any conditions including on the move, under trees or other cover. As a Safran design engineer pointed out to Armada, “this combination of INS and GPS eliminates any need for outside survey support and allows each gun to autonomously and precisely know its location at all times.” Command and Control The introduction of digital integrated data networks address what have been everpresent problems for artillery; chiefly how to pass target information from forwardpositioned observers to the gunners, and how to coordinate the fires of batteries spread over the battlefield. Systems like Thales’ ATLAS artillery Command and Control (C2) system which is used by the Armée de Terre (French Army) solve this. It provides onboard terminals for communications and real-time firing management including fire-support requests and firing orders. Raytheon’s Advanced Field Artil-
8
lery Tactical Data System (AFATDS) Fire Support C2 system is employed by the US Army and US Marine Corps. A Raytheon spokesperson explained that the AFATDS enhances artillery by “prioritizing targets and coordinating firing assets from battery to higher (echelons) to provide timely, accurate and managed fire support options.” When these C2 systems are coupled with forward observer target locators like Vinghøg’s LP10TL Target Locator and FOI2000 Forward Observation System, Safran’s GonioLight or Instro Precision’s Thor Targeting System it is possible to achieve true observer to shooter synergy. With both the guns and observer having precise locations and exchanging raw target data directly, the fires can be delivered with unprecedented speed. The SPH can be in transit to its next position and yet receive a ‘call for fire’ from an observer and begin to compute and prepare a firing response. Literally in seconds a firing solution can be determined, guns laid, rounds loaded and fired. The Kraus MaffeiWegmann (KMW) PzH2000, BAE Systems’ FH-77BW L52 Archer Artillery System and Samsung Techwin’s K-7 Thunder SPH can have rounds on the way within 30 to 60 seconds of halting. The advantages of these designs are reflected in their export success. The K-9 Thunder for example is the baseline (by license production) for the Turkish T-155 Firtina (Storm), and its 2015 selection by India as the K-9 Vajra which
will be assembled in country by Larsen and Toubro. In addition, the K-9 chassis will be produced and is to be integrated with Polish Huta Stalowa Wola AHS Krab, the rollout of which occurred in August 2015, with plans to deliver 120 to the Wojska Lądowe (Polish Army). Logistics An axiom of combat is that surprise multiplies combat effect; thus, the initial attack, before the target can react, always has the greatest impact. This is even truer of indirect fires. The ideal mission is where multiple guns or batteries are coordinated to all fire so as to impact on a target at the same time. The substitution of automated loading systems on SPHs for manual loading allows a single or ‘short’ battery of two or three guns to repeatedly achieve this goal. When coupled with computercontrolled gun aiming the auto-loader allows Multiple-Round SimultaneousImpact (MRSI) engagements by even a single gun. The process has the computer changing the gun elevation for each round so as to have all rounds then impact at the same time on the target area. The FH77BW L52 has a rate-of-fire of three rounds in 15 seconds, the PzH2000 achieves twelve rounds in fewer than 60 seconds, and the US Army’s BAE Systems M-109A6 Paladin can fire three rounds in 16 seconds with a sustained rate of eight per minute. These capabilities exceed that which could be KMW
US Army
Land WARFARE
The Artillery Gun Module (DONAR) developed jointly by KMW and General Dynamics Land Systems, which is a 155mm howitzer, is a fully automatic, unmanned and autonomous artillery gun module that can be placed on tracked or wheeled platforms.
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
TECHNICAL SUPPORT MACHINE MTP-72 PURPOSE Technical Support Machine MTP72 is designed for the most labor intensive maintenance and current repairs of tank T-72 in the field. The structure of the machine includes a trailer with equipment and racks with niches and special boxes for transport and storage of spare parts and consumables for the repair of the tank. SPECIfICATIONS Chassis Trailer type Body type Crew
KrAZ-632207 Full metal, welded 3 (driver - crane operator, locksmith - mechanic, electrician - welder)
Workshop overall dimensions, mm: Length Width Height Total weight of a workshop, kg Maximum speed, km/h Fuel consumption, l/100 km Maximum grade ascending ability, angle degree Fordable depth, m Zar-system voltage, V
14720 2760 3640 22750 80 48 25 1,2 24, 220, 380
STATIONARY CHARGING STATION SZS-U PURPOSE Stationary charging station SZS-U is intended for a charge of acid accumulator batteries, and also alkaline batteries with the rated voltage of 12 and 24 V, with the capacity from 7 to 200 A·h, what is applied in automobile and armored vehicles (personal armored vehicles or tanks) The station represents the stationary boxing of frame type, it is divided into two compartments. There is the chargers block in the front compartment, it’s consisting of twelve independent charging modules. There are niches for laying of 12 charging cables sets and 1 powering cables set (220 V and 380 V) in the rear compartment. Charging modules provide a high long-term charging rate with low fluctuations at the exit, they are interfering to premature wear of accumulator battery’s plates, and also are capable to determine the rated voltage of the charged battery automatically.
SPECIfICATIONS Type Output voltage, V Station voltage, V Number of at the same time charged accumula- tor batteries Time necessary for station expansion, no more, min. Outline dimensions, mm length width height Weight, kg:
36, Dehtiarivska St., Kyiv, 04119, Ukraine Phone: +380 (44) 461-94-27 Fax: +380(44) 461-97-59; 489-07-58 E-mail: aira@ukrspecexport.com
Stationary, power supply from external network 12, 24 220, 380 12 5 1000 800 1000 100
BAE Systems
Land WARFARE
The FH77BW LA2 combines a number of innovations including the use of a truck platform, automatic magazine loading, computerized fire control and gun laying.
How it Works: Circular Error Probability Traditional artillery target engagement often required firing of a number of shells to neutralize a target. This is a function of the inherent inaccuracy of the rounds and the impact of wind and other factors while the round is in flight. Accuracy is measured by what is called CEP (Circular Error Probability), essentially the measured diameter of a circle in which 50 percent of rounds will impact. The greater the engagement range the less accurate they will be and the larger the CEP. Firing more rounds at a specific target then increases the chances that sufficient rounds will impact sufficiently close to the desired target. A standard 155mm shell has a CEP of 200m to 300m (656ft to 984ft) at moderate range. Therefore, to achieve the desired effects on a target it would be necessary to fire multiple guns, or to have one gun firing multiple times, at the same target. Even with an auto-loader this lengthens the engagement time and increases the ammunition expended. The longer the engagement time the greater the possibility that the firing unit will be detected and receive incoming counter-battery fires. Likewise with limited on-board ammunition supplies, the more rounds fired on a single target the lower the number of engagements that are possible on other targets.
achieved by a full battery of six to eight guns only a few years ago. A consequence of the auto-loader’s introduction is that it requires configuring the ammunition storage in some version of a ‘magazine’ whereby the specific round and projectile type can be readily accessed. Approaches have included a ‘clip type’ on the gun as with the FH77BW L52; a separate protected ammunition compartment as in the M-109A6, K-9 and T-155. Christian Budd, a KMW spokesperson, reflected, “Our PzH2000 is optimized for autonomous operations. Auto-loading and rapid fire (‘burst fire’) capabilities are key, as well as the need to have larger amounts of on-board ammunition. In fact, the PzH2000 has a basic on-board load of over 60 projectiles.” Replenishing ammunition for artillery has always been a challenge. With SPHs this is compounded by their ability to move quickly and off-road. Ammunition in trucks is inadequate as such vehicles cannot keep up with the advance and often have, in the past, no crew protection against enemy fires. The US Army was one of the first to address this in 1982 by introducing the BAE Systems’ M-992A2 FAASV (Field Artillery Ammunition Supply Vehicle). With the same chassis as the M-109A6, it has equivalent mobility and armour and can carry 96 conventional rounds (the M-109A6 itself has a basic load of 36). It has a powered ammunition handling system that assists the five-person crew in transferring rounds to the SPH. Other armies have followed suit, in fact, often referring to their combination of gun and resupply vehicle as a ‘system’ to be employed together. BAE Systems’ FH77BW L52 refers to a complete system which includes both the FH77BW L52 SPH itself and its ammunition resupply and support vehicles. The K9 Thunder SPH is employed with the K-10, a fully-automated re-supply vehicle with which it shares the chassis, power pack and suspension. It can transfer twelve rounds-per-minute. These purpose-built ammunition resupply systems perform a critical role in assuring that continuous fire support can be reliably provided on a highly fluid battlefield. This is particularly true in combat where it may be essential for the guns to move often and where high ammunition expenditure is expected.
10 armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
Automation The presence of INS/GPS and digital computers provides almost seamless calculation of the gun firing solution for each target. Integrating this data into the gun traverse and elevation servos permits the gunner to direct their gun to the proper aim point with the push of a button. The process can be totally automated with even propellant charges determined, selected and prepared. This ‘hands-off’ process, coupled with the automatic loading, is the core to the Multiple-Round Simultaneous-Impact (MRSI) capability. Another benefit is the substantially reduced crew size required. Early SPHs required five to seven troops in the gun/vehicle crew. Current systems have reduced this by 50 to 75 percent. For example, the FH77BW LA2 can be fired by as few as three soldiers. They can carry out an entire fire mission and displace to a new position without ever touching the gun or leaving the protection of the armoured cab. This capability is of special interest to nations with smaller forces and limited numbers of soldiers and equipment. This was one of the motivations for the Armén (Swedish Army) on its FH77BW LA2 selection. Singurlaug Jonsdottir, a spokesperson for BAE Systems’ Bofors division which builds the product, confirmed that the Swedish Army accepted its first unit in September 2015 with further deliveries of the first 24 unit order occurring in 2016. Improved Ammunition Advances in electronics miniaturization opened the door for taking the precision targeting technology being employed in air-to-ground munitions and applying it to artillery projectiles. One of the first was the US M712 Copperhead which used a laser seeker that homed onto the target being ‘painted’ by a laser designator. Paul Daniels, a programme manager at Raytheon for PGMs (Precision-Guided Munitions) who used the M712 as an artillery officer, shared with Armada that “although it was a great idea the complexity of the firing process made it difficult to actually employ … current PGMs, like Raytheon’s Excalibur, are far simpler, cost less and are more reliable and accurate.” The Excalibur, which is fired from a 155mm gun, had a goal of a CEP (Circular Error
Land WARFARE
of Probability: see How it Works box) of better than 20m (65ft). In fact the latest ‘1B’ version achieves five metres’ (16.4ft) even at 36km (22.3 miles) range. The ‘S’ version adds a semi-active laser seeker that improves the CEP to one metre (nine feet). Further work has seen the introduction of GPS guided projectiles which can be offered in ‘kits’ that are fit to the standard 155mm projectiles. Orbital ATK’s PGK is a ‘course correction’ projectile provided as a kit that transforms a standard 155mm projectile into a PGM. The PGK, Precision Guidance Kit M1156, allows the gun crew to change the fuse and adds fins to the standard M549A1 and M795 155mm projectiles. Its CEP is six metres (19.6ft). Transportability A drawback of the SPH has been the difficulty in transporting it for deployed operations. The weight and size of many self-propelled guns limit their strategic movement to ship or heavy transport
aircraft. Several companies have developed solutions that offer ground and air transport mobility by fitting the gun onto a tactical truck. The Nexter CAESAR and Soltom ATMOS 2000 are both 155mm howitzers mounted in the rear bed of a truck. The DONAR from KMW goes even further. It is a modular gun system that can be mounted on a wide range of either tracked or wheeled chassis depending on the user’s preference. These systems replicate the full complement of navigation and positioning, C2, digital fire control and fires management networking. A difference from the heavier SPH is that these are generally (with exception of DONAR) manually loaded although with mechanically assisted ammunition handling which allows the ATMOS to be served by a crew of only four, while the CAESAR uses six. Moving Forward The attributes provided by SPHs are crucial to the ability to effectively deliver
indirect fire support to manoeuvring armoured units. However, increased incidences of insurgency (witness Afghanistan and Iraq), though relatively conventional but at a lower scale of sophistication than high-tempo air-land battle, may well find the truck-mounted SPH as an adequate and even preferred option. The more substantial advances in self-propelled artillery may well be found in electronics and computing rather than in mechanics and hardware. These are likely to further facilitate the operational concept around which the KMW PzH2000 is designed. This is for a gun to operate as a self-contained firing unit that can operate autonomously while undertaking multiple fire missions in rapid succession. The time of battery fires may be coming to a close with a shift to single, or pair of guns, working independently but managed and directed via a network. Mobility of data is furthering the benefits of the mobility of the guns themselves.
KONGSBERG KONGSBERG creates and delivers high technology solutions for people that operate under very challenging conditions – on the oceans, in the deep subsea, in defence, in space.
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armadainternational.com - august/september 2016 11
Oshkosh
Land WARFARE
Smart Logistics
The armouring of tactical trucks by the US Army had been envisioned in small numbers but became an imperative in Iraq when insurgents widely targeted logistics convoys.
Military tactical vehicles have for the most part remained similar to their commercial cousins since their introduction during the First World War. In most armies they were often exactly like the commercial versions though painted in green or sand colours with some military ‘options’. Stephen W Miller
T
his paradigm has changed and has done so relatively quickly with many tactical trucks taking on a new form. Some of the differences are visually apparent while others are submerged in the equipment itself. All these differences were driven by what many see as a new reality in the way warfare is occurring now and in the future. The key changes to tactical vehicle design encompass three areas: crew protection, off-road mobility and availability/reliability.
Protection Tactical trucks, like their commercial counterparts, have traditionally been ‘soft skinned’ i.e. unarmoured. They were seen in land forces doctrine as support vehicles that generally would operate behind the forward echelons. In fact, as trucks they
were never ‘safe’ and were often targeted by the enemy and employed in combat. The ambush of convoys was an accepted tactic and particularly common when facing insurgents as during the US intervention in Vietnam between 1965 and 1975. Field units routinely added improvised armour to trucks. Today the ‘hardening’ of trucks has become, for many armies, standard. This need to provide protection to the crew and load is a direct response to the resurgence of the mine and the appearance of the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) particularly in the Iraqi and Afghan theatres since the start of the century. Fluid operations and the targeting by insurgents of logistics and support units equipped with soft skinned vehicles coupled with a heightened sensitivity to military casualties, particularly within Western powers, found armies adding
12 armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
purpose-built protection kits for light, medium, heavy and even line-haul (the movement of cargo between bases or logistics centres) trucks. The US military, responding to the growing targeting of its logistics units as demonstrated during operations in Iraq, launched an accelerated programme for the development and fielding of cab protection kits that could outfit existing trucks. For example, the Low Signature Armoured Cab (LSAC) was developed by Stewart and Stevenson (now BAE Systems) for the US Army’s FMTV (Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles). In addition, Add-on Armour Crew Protection Kits were introduced for Oshkosh-produced M-915 Heavy Equipment Transporters. The US now plans to have the majority of its tactical trucks equipped with protection, including both ballistic and enhanced mine
Land WARFARE
Mobility Enhancing the off-road mobility of military trucks by taking advantage of new technologies in suspension systems has also been a recent focus. The impetus for the adoption of these improvements is partly in response to the added weight of the protection packages; the APK adds
tire pressure control or CTIS (Central Tire Inflation Systems) can enhance the off-road characteristics of military trucks. CTIS controls allow the driver to inflate, deflate and adjust the tire pressure for different load and operating conditions. CTIS will even allow continued movement if there is minor tire damage by providing a continuous supply of air. The most significant mobility improvements have been the result of wheeled suspension system advances. Oshkosh’s TAK-4 was one of the first of these to be widely applied. Jennifer Christiansen, vice president of business development operations at Oshkosh Defence, explained to Armada that “(the) TAK-4 independent suspension system delivers 400mm (16 inches/in) of independent wheel movement to deliver exceptional mobility in places where off-road terrain and unpaved roads dominate. It also delivers improved ride quality, allowing troops to arrive ready for their missions.” A further advance is the TAK-4i intelligent independent suspension system developed for the company’s JLTV (Joint Light Tactical Vehicle) equipping the US Army and Marine Corps. She further explained that “the TAK-4i intelligent suspension system uses high pressure nitrogen gas (HPG) to deliver
Oshkosh
QinetiQ
QinetiQ’s Q-Net can be added to any tactical blast resistance. Touring any vehicle to provide protection against hand US Army motor pool, it is now held rocket propelled anti-amour weapons difficult to find a soft skinned like the rocket propelled grenade. tactical truck. Many other countries have followed suit and the industry has responded, incorporating innovative integrated and removable protection in their military designs. Mercedes Benz’ Unimog, Zetros, and Actros vehicles all offer off-the-shelf armoured protection using welded steel enhanced with composite panels and spall liners. Some armoured configurations are nearly impossible to distinguish from the ‘soft’ 3045 kilograms/kg (6700 pounds/lbs). version. Typically the protection levels Another factor is for supporting vehicles to guard against small arms impact and assure stay off roads. The idea of this is that doing crew survival against mine/IED blast. The so makes it harder for opponents to predict involvement of so many countries in the traffic patterns and, thus, where to place Afghan theatre has prompted many other armies and vehicle manufacturers to include mines. A second consideration is that having the option of moving more freely retrofit and production protection to their means tactical trucks can more closely and military vehicle lines. Renault Trucks effectively support the forward ground Defence, Iveco, Volvo, Rheinmetall-MAN manoeuvre. However, doing so places Military Vehicles, ZIL and others all offer arthem at risk of being attacked themselves moured logistic trucks. In addition, armour which adds to the need for crew protection. companies like Plasan, Ceradyne, QinetiQ Improving traction on soft and sandy and TenCate continue to develop and refine surfaces can allow traverse of even the protection solutions more suitable for toughest terrains, such as muddy fields or trucks. The QinetiQ Blast Pro add-on mine desert sand dunes, climbing grass-covered protection, Blast Ride seats, and LAST apembankments and fording rivers. Previpliqué armour each address specific threats ously seen as the ‘nice to have’ option of to the vehicle and crew. Plasan has similarly teamed with vehicle firms like Oshkosh and Tatra to design and offer the ECP-59 Armour Protection Kits (APK) for the US Marine’s MTVR (Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement) vehicle family, HMETT (Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck) Wrecker and other models. The APK, which includes cabin protection and armour plating of the cargo bed as well as suspension upgrades and air-conditioning, is a typical example of the depth of these efforts.
The US Marines MTVR (Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement) from Oshkosh was one of the first to use the firm’s TAK-4 advanced suspension which was optimized for off-road performance.
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016 13
Mercedes Benz
Land WARFARE
Protection of tactical trucks has extended to even heavy support trucks like this Mercedes Actros eightwheel drive AHSVS (Armoured Heavy Support Vehicle System) which is employed by the Canadian Army.
508mm (20in) of wheel travel, has advanced shock absorbers and can be raised and lowered using interior controls. It offers a 70 percent increase in speed.” TAK-4 is used on the MTVR, M-ATV (Mine-Resistant, Ambush-Protected All Terrain Vehicle), the US Army’s Palletized Load System and the Logistics Vehicle System Replacement (LVSR), all of which are manufactured by the company. The hydro-pneumatic suspension seems to offer significant benefits and is being pursued by a number of companies. VSE in the Netherlands has refined hydro-pneumatic suspension, and introduced advanced electro-hydraulic steering for truck rear axles. Their spokesperson suggested that “these systems provide extra cargo capacity, improve the manoeuvrability and superior distribution of wheel loads,” adding that “our systems are on over 50000 trucks.” Hendrickson Defence has a full line of high pressure gas-based suspensions including integrated systems like the Hydro-Pneumatic Suspension that provides superior ride quality, handling, stability, durability and ride height adjustment specifically needed for the severe conditions in which military vehicles must operate. Their products can replace existing mechanical components to offer improved ride and stability while achieving a 50 percent weight and 60 percent reduction in volume. Meanwhile, Horstman Defence’s
HydroStrut combines both spring and damping functions in a lightweight selfcontained design. It incorporates variable height suspension, rebound end stop damping and automatic compensation for spring force environment and temperature changes. Mark Bowles, engineering director at the company, said “the key suspension trade-offs require maximum wheel travel, lowest mass and high reliability in punishing environments. Basically, it’s all about power density. Using nitrogen gas at very high working pressures as the spring allows for a very space-efficient design, and also delivers a progressive spring rate to reduce impact shocks.” This not only contributes to better crew comfort but also assures load stability and better handling. In addition to allowing traverse of more difficult terrain and doing so at higher speeds these more effective suspensions can positively influence the reliability of other vehicle subsystems. The shocks of a rough ride are transmitted through the vehicle body to the crew but also to electronics and other vehicle components. This contributes to their potential failure. Reducing the frequency and level of shock that occur in movement favourably increases their reliability. Another approach is General Kinetic Engineering Corporation’s Active Shock Management (ASM) product. This consists of electronic controls, a variable orifice
14 armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
damping valve and patented ride control software algorithms. That ASM can be applied to existing shocks and dampers to convert them to “semi-active” making them significantly more effective allows the upgrade of existing systems. LORD Corporation’s Controllable MR Suspensions use another design and are based on Magneto-Rheological (MR) technology to move fluids in the system. These integrated units continually react to vehicle and terrain conditions in microseconds adapting the suspension to the situation. This provides improved dynamic stability. MRO The third area of change in military tactical vehicles is in improving maintenance and repair, and increasing reliability and operational availability. For military equipment, particularly in combat operations, ‘availability’ is of primary importance. Having equipment ready and able to be used for a mission when needed can determine mission capability and success. It drives what the unit can do and the resources it has at any time to undertake an assigned task. A combination of new design approaches, innovative maintenance and repair procedures and application of technologies, some previously widely adopted and proven by commercial truck fleets, have allowed availability levels approaching and even exceeding 90 percent even in rough combat conditions. For the military the primary consideration when a piece of equipment breaks down is how quickly it can be repaired and back in service. Military aviation has faced this challenge for many years as it is vital to keep the always limited number of aircraft ready to fly. To do this military aviation has adopted a troubleshooting and corrective action technique that focuses on identifying the faulty components and replacing them on the spot. Combat vehicles were one of the first ground platforms to adopt this approach. So-called ‘power pack’ designs, as utilised by KrausMaffei Wegmann in their Leopard-2 main battle tank and Marder infantry fighting vehicles, integrate the engine, transmission, drives, fuel pumps, and cooling into a single compact unit. Every effort is made to simplify the connections to allow them
to be quickly ‘unplugged’ and reinstalled. This has now been adopted in tactical trucks as well. The recognition of the need to both simplify and reduce the time needed to undertake not just repair but also routine preventative maintenance is being adopted for tactical vehicles. As an example, Mercedes Benz’ military truck lines have all their service and scheduled maintenance points readily accessible simplifying and reducing the time to complete these checks and procedures. This marks recognition of the vital importance of preventive maintenance. Technology is also providing another tool with the potential to revolutionize vehicle maintenance and repair. Called Vehicle Health Monitoring (VHM) or Integrated VHM, it takes advantage of the increased digitalization of vehicle systems to gather usable data from sensors placed at various key operational functions. These collect data on everything from engine speed, suspension play, mileage, use hours and more all of which is sent to and stored by a HMU (Health Monitoring Unit). This stored data can then be downloaded by maintenance to gain a near real-time ‘snapshot’ of the usage and status of each of the vehicle subsystems. Using this collected data it is possible to estimate wear and conditions stressing the various subsystems. By including a wireless transmitter it is possible to automatically send and download this data even from a remote location.
Iveco’s LMV (Light Multipurpose Vehicle) armour protection uses replaceable packs within the vehicle’s external skin. The basic add-on ballistic protection against small arms fire can be increased for higher protection.
The primary objective of IVHM is to allow the early identification of faults to allow responsive corrective action through the use of diagnostics and prognostics (predictive diagnostics). Added benefits include improving availability by scheduling servicing based on usage and actual wear, improving reliability by gaining a more thorough understanding of the overall health of the vehicle and components, and reducing unnecessary maintenance time and costs. By monitoring, recording and analyzing usage data it is possible to understand the loads and stresses placed on the vehicle. This can now be coupled with GPS (Global Positioning System) location information to offer further insights into the environment in which the vehicle has operated. Bringing all this information together it is possible through prognosis programmes that draw on accumulated histories of similar vehicles and components to often not just identify a failed part but to predict the possibility of future failure. Doing so permits repair and replacement to be accomplished proactively. This significantly reduces the possibility of suffering a failure during a mission. In addition, it permits more efficient maintenance and repair by allowing the replacement of components during scheduled service before they fail. Oshkosh’s Command Zone inte-
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grated control and diagnostics system is a computer-controlled, electronics technology that diagnoses all major vehicle networks. The company programme office explained: “The backbone of Command Zone is advanced multiplexing technology. This allows vehicle components to work in concert, streamlining diagnostic and troubleshooting … it allows real-time access to critical vehicle information via command and control networks, laptops, on-board display screens or handheld personal digital devices locally or remotely.” The system is included in the JLTV and can be offered in other tactical trucks. IVHM is also offered by North American Industries as a ‘plug-in’. Their 35PC0C ‘black box’ is an off-the-shelf unit that can accept data from on-board sensors to “enable the maintainer to schedule maintenance based on actual performance and conditions, rather than when a component fails.” In fact, the move toward open architecture networked vehicle systems allows preemptive diagnostics to extend beyond the automotive systems to include virtually any equipment on the vehicle. Many armies are realising the potential benefits of embracing IVHM. For tactical trucks based on commercial models like those offered by Mercedes, DAF and Mack, IVHM and on-board vehicle diagnostics are already standard equipment. Here military users are able to take advantage of the extensive adoption of this technology particularly in the management of large Driverless vehicles combine various sensors, GPS, automated steering and braking controls and a ‘smart’ computing unit to operate the vehicle either autonomously or remotely.
US DoD
Iveco
Land WARFARE
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truck fleets and heavy/construction equipmemory and integration of functions ment. The implications toward enhancing like geographic positioning, networking the operational availability of tactical platand communications are opening new forms, as already realised commercially, are possibilities. One of these within the huge and even more critical for the military. realm of possibility is further refineBy predicting problems before they occur, ment of diagnostics and prognostics. it can be possible to correct them when the The capability to automatically predict system is not on a mission or coordinated to a component failure and report it, thus be performed during a break in the action. allowing pre-emptive corrective action, Doing so keeps the vehicle performing its is easily foreseeable. A failing system can role when needed and increases confidence be identified and reported to the maintein the number of assets that will be at hand nance unit allowing them to have the part at any time. This is a critical advantage in in hand to replace it immediately at the planning for and conducting military opfirst opportunity. erations where often, particularly with deComputing power coupled with fully ployed forces, assets are limited. In addition, adjustable suspensions, often using a by reducing the possibility that a vehicle nitrogen-filled system, will also allow the might breakdown when operating in hostile ‘ride’ of the vehicle to be refined based on areas or in proximity to combat eliminates the contours of the terrain encountered, the concern that a recovery and rescue, pos- the load and the vehicle speed. This will sibly under fire, might be necessary. permit higher cross country mobility with higher payloads and greater safety What next? and stability. The next step may well be to Advances in computing speed, increased convert tactical vehicles to autonomous
control, removing the crew entirely. The US Army performed technology demonstrations of driverless convoys in June 2016. Oshkosh Defense has undertaken its own development as well called the TerraMax Unmanned Ground Vehicle which has demonstrated not only an individual vehicle, but also convoy operations. It is not clear when or if driverless tactical vehicles, at least for logistics, will become commonplace, but it is certain that the tactical truck is assuming a new form. Though these changes remain mostly hidden from view, the capabilities that they have introduced to the tactical truck are significant. Furthermore, these have facilitated major changes in the manner in which these vehicles are employed and supported. The implementation of these changes is still unfolding so it will be interesting to watch how each military will respond and ultimately the benefits that will be gained from these new technologies.
The Caesar® artillery system in Mali
CREATING NEW REFERENCES IN DEFENCE I WWW.NEXTER-GROUP.COM
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016 17
Photo credits: ©ECPAD/France/A.Roine
The artillery system of the 21st century
Trevor Hollingsbee
sea power
Although its prime role will be anti-submarine warfare The ‘Type 26’ class’ new Sea Ceptor SAM system, and its accompanying Type-997 3D radar, will add significantly to the Royal Navy’s air defence capabilities.
Protecting the Air from the Sea Advances in the capabilities of surface-to-air missiles are being matched by developments in maritime air defence sensors. There is therefore demand for increasingly sophisticated, dedicated air defence vessels. This article analyses a number of the most significant recent developments in this field. Trevor Hollingsbee 18 armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
A
ustralia is one of several countries surveyed in this article which is pouring investment into its air defence surface combatants. Currently in build for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) is a trio of 6250-tonne, 147-metre/m (482-feet/ft) warships, designated by the RAN as Air Warfare Destroyers (AWD). These vessels will replace the RAN’s ageing ‘Adelaide’ class frigates and are urgently required to provide area air defence for RAN task groups, particularly as the fleet’s highest value surface units, the two new ‘Canberra’ class amphibious assault ships, are very lightly armed. The AWDs will also have significant Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) capabilities. These are technologically advanced, and potentially, highly capable,
sea power
quadruple canister launchers for Boeing RGM-84 Harpoon family AShMs. The vessel’s gun armament takes the form of a BAE Systems’127mm weapon backed up by two Rafael Advanced Defence Systems Typhoon 25mm automatic cannons. The ‘Hobart’ classes’ ASW fit consists of Eurotorp MU-90 torpedoes fired from two twin Babcock Mk.32 Mod.9 launchers. The very advanced and capable Sikorsky MH-60R naval support helicopter is embarked for ASW and ASuW. All of these systems are tied together using Lockheed Martin’s Aegis Combat Management System (CMS) which integrates a range of sensors including the Lockheed Martin AN/SPY-1D(V) S-Band (2.3-2.5/2.7-3.7 Gigahertz/GHz) radar and Northrop Grumman AN/SPQ9B X-band (8.5-10.68GHz) pulse Doppler horizon search radar. Finally, the ships’ propulsion is provided by twin General Electric Marine gas turbines and a pair of Caterpillar diesel engines in a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) arrangement, giving a top speed of over 28 knots (52 kilometres-per-hour). AWD’s director of communications Danielle De Santis confirmed that the ship will feature “the most modern equipment, including the RIM-161 SM-2 Block-3B and RIM-162 SAMs, and Raytheon’s PhalanxBlock-1B Close-In Weapons System (CIWS), and the latest Curtis-Wright ASIST (Aircraft Ship Integrated Secure and Traverse) system to facilitate the secure landing,
deck handling, and recovery of (the ship’s) helicopter.” Ms. De Santis confirmed that the current scheduled in-service dates for the three ships of the class are as follows: HMAS Hobart (June 2017), HMAS Brisbane (July 2018) and HMAS Sydney (December 2019). The original total cost estimate for the AWD was $8 billion; Canberra’s 2015 project overview estimated that it was likely to run $1.2 billion over budget, while the AWD Alliance was not able to supply an up-to-date estimate. Royal Navy Like the RAN, the Royal Navy is replacing its frigates, chiefly the ‘Duke’ class with the ‘Type-26’ class frigate, as part of the Global Combat Ship project initiated in 1998. The go-ahead to start the final design and pre-manufacturing work on the ‘Type 26’ class was given to its prime contractor BAE Systems in 2010. The ship will be optimised for ASW, but will also be well equipped for both air defence, and direct support of land operations. Priority roles for this 8000-tonne,150 metre/m (492 feet/ Ft) warship will be escorting the Royal Navy’s new ‘Queen Elizabeth’ class aircraft carriers, and participating in international security and humanitarian and disaster relief operations.
France’s new FREDA air defence frigates, ordered in place of two cancelled ‘Horizon’ class destroyers for the Marine Nationale, will have MBDA’s Aster-15/30 as its primary SAM system.
DCNS
warships, although they are experiencing a complex, trouble-plagued gestation. Following the green light for the programme in 2007 which uses a design based on an adaptation of the Armada Española (Royal Spanish Navy) ‘F-100’class frigates which are built by Navantia, Canberra opted for a modular approach to construction. Construction is being performed by the AWD Alliance, comprising the Australian government’s Defence Materiel Organisation, ASC shipbuilders and Raytheon’s Australia subsidiary. After numerous changes of plan, a total of 31 modules per ship are being constructed by ASC, BAE Systems and Forgacs in Australia, and Navantia in Spain and the UK, while mast structures are being built by MG Engineering of Australia. Design, engineering and contractual problems have combined to delay the programme by some three years. The project nevertheless reached a major landmark in early May 2016 with the activation of a number of combat systems on the first-of-class, HMAS Hobart, which had been launched about a year previously. The armament fit of the AWD is comprehensive. Its main weapon system is the Lockheed Martin Mk.41 48-cell vertical missile launcher, able to fire Raytheon RIM-161 Standard Missile-2 (SM-2) BlockIIIB and Raytheon RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow (ESSM) Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs). The vessel’s Anti-Ship Missile (AShM) capability is provided by two
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Weibo.com
sea power
This new, large destroyer, the first examples of which might already be in build, are intended both to boost the PLA Navy’s already substantial inventory of air defence vessels, and to enhance the status of the force.
The ‘Type-26’ class’ strong air defence capability is provided by a 48-cell vertical launcher for the MBDA Sea Ceptor SAM. The vertical launchers will be large enough to enable possible allocation of Raytheon BGM-109C Tomahawk surface-to-surface cruise missiles. BAE Systems Stingray torpedoes, both ship and helicopter launched, will enable ASW, with the ship’s gun armament being a BAE Systems Mk.5 127mm mounting, backed up by two MSI Defence Systems automatic DS30M Mk.2 30mm cannon and two Phalanx CIWS. The ships’ sensor outfit consists of a BAE Systems Type-997 Artisan naval surveillance radar, a Kelvin Hughes SharpEye navigation radar, a Thales’ Type-2087 towed array and Type-2050 bow sonars. The ‘Type 26’ class will be able to operate two AgustaWestland/ Leonardo HM.1/2 Merlin or HMA.1 Wildcat naval support helicopters for ASW/ASuW or one Boeing HC.2 Chinook heavy-lift helicopter. The ships’ propulsion is achieved by a CODOG system combining two RollsRoyce MT30 gas turbines, four MTU diesel generators and two electric motors. In December 2015 the British Government announced that eight, rather than the originally planned 13, ‘Type 26’ class
frigates will be ordered, but that at least five smaller, cheaper, general purpose frigates, designated as the ‘Type 31’ class, will also be constructed, using the funds freed up. The UK Ministry of Defence official 2015 estimate for 13 ‘Type 26’ class vessels was a cost of $16.5 billion. The in-service date for the first ‘Type 26’ class ship meanwhile remains uncertain. Concepts now being considered for the ‘Type 31’ class are known to include modified versions of the BAE Systems ‘Al Khareef’ class corvette (in use with the Royal Navy of Oman), the ‘River’ class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) in service with the Royal Navy, and Babcock Defence’s ‘Roisin’ class OPV in service with the Irish Navy, as well as BMT’s new ‘Venator’ class frigate design and a downscaled variant of the ‘Type 26’ class. France Across La Manche (the English Channel), the Marine Nationale (French Navy) are planning to build two Fregate de Défense Aériennes (FREDA/Air Defence Frigate) versions of the ‘Aquitaine’ class multi mission frigates that the navy currently operates. Marion Bonnet, a spokesperson
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for DCNS which builds the ‘Aquitaine’ class, and which will also build the FREDA ships, told Armada that the size of the FREDA vessels will “be the same as that for the standard ‘Aquitaine’ class.” Their air defence armament will consist of a total capacity for 32 MBDA Aster-15/30 SAMs. MBDA’s Exocet MM40 AShMs will also be fitted, and there will be capacity for the possible retrofit of land attack missiles. Cost estimates specific to the FREDA project have not yet been made available, although the 2015 French government estimate for the ‘Aquitaine’ class costs was $755.5 million per unit. China Away from Europe, over the past 20 years the People’s Republic of China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has emerged as a leading maritime power. The PLAN fleet already includes some 90 frigates and destroyers, and details are emerging of a significant new air defence destroyer project. According to local reports, at the end of 2014 the first ‘Type 055’ class destroyer was laid down at the Changxingdao-Jiangnan Shipyard. These reports, and others indicating that con-
sea power
Navy’s ‘Arleigh Burke’ class destroyers. These warships are at the core of the order of battle of an increasingly ambitious and outward-looking JMSDF, and provide area air defence for Japanese battle groups and allied assets, as well as in conjunction with Republic of Korea Navy and US Navy warships. The core of the current JMSDF Aegis-equipped destroyers’ area defence capabilities is a Lockheed Martin Mk.41 vertical launch system consisting of cells fitted forward and aft. The cells can fire a mix of RIM-162 and RIM-66 SAMs. Their main gun armament is a Leonardo/OTO Melara 127mm Compact Gun whereas the ‘Atago’ class have a Japan Steel Works Mk.45 Mod.4. Last ditch defence against AShMs is provided by two Phalanx CIWS. Canisters for up to eight RGM-84 (the Mitsubishi Type 90 AShM on the ‘Atago’ class) are fitted for ASuW, while fixed antisubmarine weaponry consists of two triple torpedo tubes capable of firing Raytheon Mk.46 torpedoes. The ship’s sensors include the AN/SPY-1D naval surveillance radar and OQS-102 bow mounted sonar, while a SH-60J naval support helicopter is carried. There are advanced plans in hand to build two additional, improved Aegis CMS equipped destroyers, to a design based on that of the existing vessels. In September 2015 Japan’s Ministry of Defence announced that two ’27-DD’ class destroyers were to be constructed, with
an empty displacement of 12300 tonnes, compared to the 10000 tonnes of the ‘Atago’ class. Planned features of particular note include a Northrop Grumman AN/SPQ-9B surface search radar, and combined gas turbine/electric and gas turbine propulsion. The ships are scheduled to enter service in 2020-21, and are estimated to cost $1.5 billion per vessel. Summary There is a definite tendency for air defence ships to increase in size. Reasons for this include the requirement to fit large numbers of vertical launch SAM canisters, and increasingly large and complex surveillance and detection systems, in order to cope with multiple attacks by advanced missiles. Also, many navies can now only afford limited numbers of escort vessels, so air defence ships are, in addition, increasingly being given comprehensive anti-submarine and above surface warfare capabilities in an effort to ensure their survivability in multithreat environments. Delineation between the categories of destroyer and frigate is therefore blurring; this is a trend which seems certain to continue.
Construction is due to begin shortly of the first of two new advanced destroyers based on existing JMSDF designs. They will participate in a regional defence shield against ballistic missiles, as well as providing area air defence for the JMSDF fleet.
US Navy
struction of a second example commenced at Dalian, northeast China in 2015, remain unconfirmed, but a training mock-up of the new warship has been identified on shore at Wuhan, central China. A range of reports, including in the official Chinese media, indicate that the destroyer will displace around 10000 tonnes, with a length of 175m (574ft). Its armament will reportedly consist of a Zhengzhou Mechanical-Electrical Engineering Research Institute Type H/PJ38 130mm naval gun and a 713th (Research) Institute H/PJ11 CIWS, both mounted forward, and a total of 128 vertical launch cells, fitted fore and aft. The cells will be capable of firing China Precision Machinery Import-Export Corporation HQ-10 SAMs, China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation YJ-100 AShMs and, probably, as-yet-unspecified land attack and anti-submarine missiles. Two medium naval support helicopters will be carried. The superstructure of the ‘Type 055’ class appears to have a low radar cross section design. Available imagery also indicates that four S-Band three-dimensional (altitude, bearing and velocity) fixed array radar antennae are fitted around the forward superstructure, together with an integrated mast containing components for the ship’s radar, electronic support measures and communications. A vessel of this size, and capability, will add to the combat capabilities of the PLAN. According to Lyle Goldstein, associate professor of China Maritime Studies at the US Naval War College: “Like the Aegis CMS (see above) destroyers that formed the model for its predecessors, the ‘Type 055’ class’ main mission is certain to be fleet air defence, including for Beijing’s nascent carrier battle groups.” Beijing might well also be trying to match the Russia Navy’s revived ‘Kirov’ class nuclear-powered cruisers and the US Navy’s new ‘Zumwalt’ class destroyers. Japan The PLAN’s rival the Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) has operated its defence destroyers equipped with the Aegis CMS since 1993. The JMSDF’S existing ‘Kongo’ class Aegis CMS-equipped destroyers and the two improved and enlarged ‘Atago’ class variants are based on the US
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NATO
Land WARFARE
HOW NOT TO BE SEEN Modern armed forces must adopt a mix of tactics, techniques and procedures, standard operating procedures and technology in order to successfully execute missions across a varied contemporary operating environment. Andrew White
T
raditionally, camouflage was As one undisclosed member of a designed to protect soldiers European military explained to Armada, from being identified by the the so-called ‘holy grail’ for today’s soldier naked eye, with an emphasis encompasses protection against SWIR on reducing noticeable shapes, and thermal imaging sensors without a shine, shadow, silhouette and texture. requirement to wear additional specialist However, technology progressions have layers of clothing or material. As Saab seen this narrow spread of the visual elecexplained to Armada, tactical requiretromagnetic spectrum elongated further ments continue to change with ever to include wavelengths undetectable to the expanding needs for the armed forces human eye such as Short Wave Infra Red conducting a wide range of missions. (SWIR) sensors, now widely available on “Modern warfare constantly evolves. On the commercial market. As these technolo- today’s high-tech battlefield, sensors are gies become cheaper and therefore more becoming increasingly more sophistiaccessible, armed forces will continue to cated, making it ever more challenging see their proliferation across non-state for military forces to avoid detection and actors and insurgent groups as well as identification,” a spokesperson for the equivalent potential adversaries. company explained. “These days however,
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Companies including Saab are now developing specialist camouflage for utility in urban environments, particularly in regards to protecting soldiers across the electromagnetic spectrum.
through advances in signature management and advanced camouflage, forces can remain undetected for longer, meaning they can prevent or delay engagement with the enemy and significantly improve their survivability and operational capability,” the company continued while describing the development of camouflage for a wide variety of military applications. Saab is currently offering up its Barracuda Advanced Camouflage System to more than 60 armed forces globally, with a range of entry level solutions for individual warfighters through to vehicular and force element protection measures. “When it comes to signature management, the technology progresses at such a rate that staying one step ahead of sensor capabilities becomes paramount. By masking different types of signatures, be it heat, reflected light, reflected Radio Frequency (RF), through sophisticated layers of material you can avoid detection,” Saab explained while describing how its Barracuda series of solutions comprised conducive foil and insulation technology in order to reduce thermal signatures, as well as outer
layers of Three-Dimensional (3D) garnish material designed to mimic indigenous natural textures in an area of operation for “enhanced visual camouflage.” This latter point remains extremely relevant for units conducting covert operations such as surveillance and reconnaisSaab’s Barracuda camouflage sance missions where any ‘out-of-place’ systems range from camouflage, such as foliage, can be easily rural ‘ghillie’ suits spotted as alien to the particular area and for dismounted therefore become suspicious to indigtroops and special enous civilian and military personnel who forces through might be otherwise very familiar with that to heat signature items designed to area of ground. cloak armoured As one NATO (North Atlantic Treaty fighting vehicles. Organisation) Special Forces source indicated to Armada, a very detailed approach is required to successfully execute such operations which could comprise a mission important to develop camouflage that has ranging from sub-surface Observation the potential to adapt to the surrounding Positions (OPs) through to sniper pairs environment,” explained Magnus Gäfvert, conducting reconnaissance and strike operations. Similarly, it was explained how head of marketing and sales at Saab’s Barracuda subsidiary. camouflage technology can be used to miSaab also continues to pay close atnimise footprints on the ground for larger tention to the urban environment and force elements, including assault forces particularly Military Operations in Urban operating from tactical ground vehicles. Terrain (MOUT). As a company official Saab claims to monopolise around 90 explained, “the next step is the developpercent of the international camouflage ment of camouflage systems for use in market, which was yet further enhanced urban terrain … The demand for advanced with the announcement of a contract in signature management during operations September 2014 to furnish the British in urban environments is constantly growArmy’s General Dynamics Ajax family of ing. The new urban warfare configuration tracked armoured fighting vehicles with builds on Saab’s well-known Barracuda the firm’s camouflage technology. DeliverMCS technology which is a tailor-made, ies of the Ajax family, which encompasses multipurpose covering with optimised a total of 589 vehicles, are planned to begin colours, designs and properties for all in 2017 and will continue until 2024. Genenvironments … It enhances survivability, eral Dynamics’ British division awarded sustainability and logistics for vehicles Saab a contract to supply the Barracuda and equipment, while all the time providMobile Camouflage System (MCS) which ing a ‘stealth’ or masking capability in the was exhibited at the Eurosatory defence visual, near-infrared, thermal infrared exhibition in Paris this June. “Intelligent and broadband RF wavelengths. We have camouflage is one area that will be the seen an increased emphasis on vehicle game changer for future armed forces and protection during operations in urban Saab is constantly performing research terrain, and this is our response,” it was and development in order to introduce explained with reference to Saab’s latest new products and solutions to ensure that Urban Warfare MCS which focuses on armed forces around the world remain allowing troops to operate in built-up and undetected, no matter what happens,” man-made environments where detection Saab officials explained to Armada at and engagement distances are very short. the event. “We are developing new ways “In these theatres it is vital to have a few exof detecting incoming laser threats by tra seconds of decision space, when threats integrating sensors and new technologies are literally ‘just around the corner’. We see into our systems. Besides this, it is also
Saab
Land WARFARE
a great future for these kinds of configurations,” Saab concluded. This latest product is being marketed as a multipurpose system providing optimised colours, designs and properties for all environments including desert and jungle warfare, mountain and cold weather operations, as well as littoral and riverine missions. Such a solution allows MOUT forces to protect base infrastructure, personnel and vehicles against hostile sensors and target acquisition technology. Digicam In the US, the Marine Corps (USMC) continues to invest heavily in next-generation camouflage solutions for dismounted personnel and equipment with a rich background in this area, having been one of the first armed services to deploy digital camouflage (Digicam) patterned material (please see How It Works: Digicam box for more information). As service officials explained to Armada, such technology fulfils requirements to make uniforms and equipment as discreet as possible across the widening electromagnetic spectrum. To this end, the USMC’s Combat Development and Integration team, based in Quantico, Virginia, continues to work closely with industry partners to develop the next-generation of technology with participants including Gore and Associates, UVR Defence Tech, and Fibrotex Technology to name just a few. According to a company spokesper-
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Saab
Land WARFARE
The world’s militaries are increasingly required to operate in a vast array of differing terrains, with camouflage designs required to mimic such environments.
son at Gore and Associates, SWIR threats the same uniform offers an enemy a clear comprise the most serious concern to target!” Cameras used in evaluation tests Marine Corps units which literally made relied upon a COTS (Commercial Off-Thein-service uniforms ‘glow’ in the dark. Shelf) camera with an ultraviolet (UV) SWIR tends to detect anything synthetic, band pass filter, readily available in the and Marine uniforms incorporate nylon commercial sector. “It is the availability of as part of a cotton blend. “Traditional such inexpensive, real-time, UV imaging camouflage, which relies upon mimicry, sensors that has made near-UV camoumakes you a recognisable mass of grey flage a field necessity for both personnel at standard engagement ranges,” the and strategic military equipment,” the spokesperson explained while referring to spokesperson continued. its Optifade technology which was initially UVR claims to have developed the only designed to counter animal vision. “This camouflage system, designated UVRC, concealment pattern applies revolucapable of countering near-UV light, tionary new findings in animal vision with technology featuring a thin film of science, camouflage science and advanced transparent nanoparticles. The system computer technology,” it was added. Civilcan be applied as a thin, invisible coating ian variants of the technology comprise El- to existing camouflage solutions such evated II, open country, waterfowl marsh as uniforms, tents, shelters, camouflage and waterfowl timber patterns although nets and vehicles. The UVRC-Permanent the company is also understood to be (UVRC-P) product for coated systems can working on desert, jungle, temperate and be sprayed, rolled, brushed or printed onto cold weather options for the military. products with a capability to dry within UVR Defence Tech meanwhile stipu“minutes,”, company officials added. The lates that military camouflage options UVRC-A solution, meanwhile, is designed must cover a range of the electromagnetic to provide UV signature management for spectrum including ultraviolet light (less uniforms and other absorbent materials. than 400 nanometres/nm) and the visComprising a water-based and non-toxic ible spectrum stretching from 400nm to solution, the UVRC-A provides troops with 800nm. “The latest camouflage pattern of UV camouflage without significantly alterthe US Army is the Crye Precision ‘Multiing the object’s appearance in visible or cam’ which, when viewed in visible light, near-IR wavelengths. “It is available as 7, 22 blends well into the foliage and shadows,” and 80 percent UV reflective compounds, a company spokesperson explained to ready to be applied in liquid form,” the Armada. “When viewed in ultraviolet light, company explained. The technology has
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already been trialled on the US Army’s Fire Resistant Army Combat Uniform (FRACU). Once coated, a uniform can survive approximately 20 machine washes before its protective qualities fade out. Elsewhere, Fibrotex Technology has been designed to counter the visual effects of UV light (250nm-380nm), visual light (380nm-700nm), near-IR (700nm-1200nm), SWIR (1200-2500nm), Medium Wave Infrared/MWIR (3nm-5nm), and Long Wave Infrared/LWIR (8nm-14nm). Personal camouflage systems comprise tents, netting, helmet covers, ghillie suits (full suits designed to replicate the surrounding environment), dual-sided personal suits and rock suits. As an example, the latter option comprises a fully-camouflaged solution protecting against UV light and near-IR light and available in hood and long cape, hood and over shirt/trousers, and hood and over shirt/kilt configurations. Weighing less than a kilogram (0.5 pounds), the system is easily carried by a soldier. The system comes in woodland, urban, desert and snow versions with optional add-ons including weapon covers, gloves, gaiters and backpack covers, and is currently in service with the Finnish Defence Forces, company sources explained to Armada. Fibrofex’s Sniper Camouflage Tent has been designed to provide multispectral concealment for sniper pairs, with the capability to protect operators from UV, visual, near-IR and thermal IR observation. Featuring reversible and optional camouflage patterns on both sides of the
How It Works: Digicam Pixilated digital camouflage or ‘digicam’ is increasingly de rigeur for armed forces around the world. Unlike traditional camouflage, Digicam employs both micro (small) and macro (large) patterns with one, of both, of these patterns employing a pixilated design. The logic of digicam is to provide camouflage across a range of distances rather than employing patterns which only provide concealment at long or short ranges, thus improving the protection of the soldier, or object, being camouflaged.
Land WARFARE
material, the tent is capable of reducing the thermal signatures of soldiers inside and can be set up within three minutes. Finally, Schoeller Textil is promoting SSZ Camouflage Technology’s multispectral camouflage technology which has been designed to reduce detection levels for soldiers working across the battlefield. Exhibited at Eurosatory, the technology has already been tested by the Swiss Army, industry sources explained to Armada, which has a requirement for protection against visual and near-IR viewing as well as MWIR. In March 2016, the two companies announced plans to market Camoshield for the protection of combat uniforms. This solution can be painted onto existing uniforms without impinging on the comfort of the soldier wearing it. Air options Camouflage technology is not just limited to ground and maritime environments. In
Russia, reports continue to emerge regarding the utility of special coatings used to camouflage aircraft including the Sukhoi Su-34 tactical bomber. Manufactured by the United Aircraft Corporation’s Novosibirsk Aircraft Plant, the paint protects against corrosion as well as camouflaging the aircraft when viewed against the open sky or ocean. Options include the ‘Naval Pattern’ which comprises a hybrid mix of light blue and turquoise colours providing the main body of the camouflage with an additional white cone, while aircraft edges are coloured in a light grey. Additionally, UAC offers a single-colour camouflage option for other fixed-wing aircraft, which the company claims makes it less visible to the human eye as well as a disruptive pattern tailored to specific particular environments and designed to make parts of the aircraft unidentifiable to observers. Looking to the future, UAC is in the process of evaluating camouflage paint options capable of protecting the aircraft
from ‘aggressive factors’ including excessive temperatures (sometimes generated by missile smoke plumes and cannon fire) and corrosion. Conclusion Today’s conflicts continue to throw up significant camouflage issues for armed forces, particularly Special Forces, countering the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and Syria in the Syrian and Iraqi theatres which continues to benefit from mature technology captured from the Iraqi Army, as well as equipment procured from its war chest. More than a decade of NATO operations in Afghanistan saw Special Forces learning some hard lessons with regards to the Taliban insurgent movement countering coalition electromagnetic spectrum observation systems, although this threat has morphed into something even more deadly in the form of viewing devices now routinely used by such insurgent organisations.
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armadainternational.com - august/september 2016 27
Chemical Memory
US Army
LAND WARFARE
The first half of 2016 saw a series of violent acts which were either directed or inspired by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). From three coordinated bombings in Brussels in March to countless person-borne and vehicle-borne suicide bombings in Iraq, Syria, Turkey and Libya. Andy Oppenheimer
T
he Cable News Network television channel reported in March 2016 that, since declaring its ‘caliphate’ in June 2014, ISIS has conducted, or inspired, nearly 75 terrorist attacks in 20 countries other than Iraq and Syria. Those attacks outside Iraq and Syria have killed at least 1280 people and injured more than 1770 others. In Iraq and Syria alone, the attacks have taken a much deadlier toll. In April 2016, the United Nations estimated at least 741 Iraqis, including more than 400 civilians, were killed and 1374 wounded in ISIS bomb attacks. On 3 July, 165 people were killed and at least 225 were injured in a vast truck bomb attack claimed by ISIS in Karrada, Baghdad. As US-led military operations in Iraq and Syria continue to drive ISIS out from its areas of occupation, Chemical Weapons (CW) are being deployed by the organisation to defend its areas and to slow down opposing forces, chiefly the Iraqi Army and Kurdish Peshmerga guerrillas seeking to repulse the organisation from the areas it occupies. The militants are deploying widely spread webs of ‘daisy chain’ Improvised Explosive
Devices (IEDs) which involves several connected IEDs or mines usually buried beneath a road, with the first device set off by an approaching vehicle which triggers detonation by driving over a pressure plate in the device. The first detonation in turn sets off all the rest of the buried devices which are connected below the surface, thereby destroying an entire convoy. Mixed Results How many ISIS IEDs incorporate chemicals or other CBRN (Chemical, Biological,
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US Army Reserve Soldiers with the 388th CBRN company took part in a joint training exercise at the Stevens Point Municipal Airport, Wisconsin, in October 2015 alongside the 409th Area Support Medical Company and local civilians and officials.
Radiological, Nuclear) weapons and materials? There have been several dozen unverified reports of ISIS using CW in Iraq, mainly in IEDs and mortars, many of which are aimed at injuring Kurdish forces and often specifically target Iraqi EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) teams. According to CW expert Colonel Hamish de Bretton Gordon, who witnessed the after-effects CW attacks in the Iraqi the-
atre, Peshmerga forces fighting ISIS in Iraq were attacked with mustard gas eight times during a two-week period in February and March. These attacks caused more than 200 casualties, according to senior Peshmerga generals. While making significant technological advances in developing new weapons techniques (the process by which toxic chemicals are utilised in weapons) ISIS CW munitions are still basic, tending towards ground impacts, which disseminate less of the chemical agent than exploding munitions above their targets. The use of CWs by ISIS can slow down the advance of opposing forces, in keeping with their original, historical purpose of area denial; but as ISIS has not co-ordinated most of its CW attacks with infantry assaults, the chlorine and mustard gas is used mainly to harass the enemy and the attacks have not produced significant military advantage for ISIS. Weapons of terror The ISIS use of chlorine in IEDs is classed by many experts as mainly psychological warfare. Peshmerga chief of staff Colonel Srud al-Bazanji was reported by press agencies as having told Col. de Bretton Gordon in April that “Normal weapons are better at causing death and injury but if you think chemical weapons are being used you are more afraid.” The injuries caused by these weapons are horrific and in areas with little available medical treatment or CBRN protection, may be long-lasting. Chemical Access After occupying areas in Syria and Iraq for their caliphate, ISIS gained access to industrial chemicals such as chlorine, phosphine and vinyltrichlorosilane, all of which form toxic gases, which it has used as CWs. In addition, ISIS began manufacturing its own mustard gas from chemicals it gained access to in Iraq during its conquests of territory. The use of chlorine in their IEDs stems from its ready availability as this chemical is banned by the CWC (Chemical Weapons Convention) only if used as a weapon. ISIS found an abundance of the gas in during its conquest of parts of Syria; thus it is chlorine rather than mustard agent that may be most likely used in a civilian setting by ISIS cells operating in Europe.
Maksym Kozlenko
LAND WARFARE
Over half of the industrial chemicals produced worldwide rely on the manufacture of chlorine, with some 44 million tonnes produced globally each year.
Whence the Threat? In February the director of US National Intelligence James Clapper said that ISIS is a concern to the United States “because of the indications that they would like to use chemical weapons against us.” In early 2015 journalist Adam Withnall reported on the Australian government intelligence assessments that ISIS had “seized enough radioactive material from government facilities (it has captured in Iraq) to suggest it has the capacity to build a large and devastating ‘dirty’ bomb (radiological dispersal device).” This March an ISIS chemical weapons expert was captured by US Special Forces in Iraq. As with many such operatives, Sleiman Daoud al-Afari was once a specialist in chemical and biological weapons for Saddam Hussein. More Special Forces raids are targeting chemical weapons experts, and airstrikes are focusing on ISIS laboratories and equipment in both Iraq and Syria. As well as spreading further into the Middle East and North Africa regions, the Asia-Pacific is in ISIS’ sights. Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim country, is a prime candidate for its eastward spread. On 14 January multiple blasts in the capital Jakarta were followed by the discovery of a chlorine-laden IED planted
in a supermarket in the city by jihadists returning from fighting with ISIS in Syria. According to the Straits Times of Singapore, there are at least 700 fighters from Indonesia and over 200 from Malaysia fighting in Iraq and Syria. In late June, United States Forces Korea (USFK), which commands all US forces in the Republic of Korea (RoK), said that it stepped up security at its military installations after the RoK National Intelligence Service warned that ISIS had collected information to target 77 USFK military units across the country. The data on the locations of the units had been obtained from its hacking group, the ‘United Cyber Caliphate’. Please see the author’s The Other End of the Line article in this issue for more information on ISIS cyber activities. Counting the Cost The main responsibility for CBRN protection is shifting from militaries to local governments and the private sector. This is because non-state CW attacks involve municipalities and businesses as well as government. Local police and ‘hazmat’ (Hazardous Materials) teams now have a new role of securing vulnerable areas and events from CBRN threats and must work with public health and non-governmental
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016 29
The Environics Mobile ENVI BioSCout unit is designed to provide bioaerosol detection for military operations. The company is involved in the provision of a number of systems for CBRN protection.
agencies to identify and deal with threats; such agencies often do not have large military budgets or staffing resources. The shifting CBRN defence responsibility and the need to save on acquisition and operating costs is leading to the increasing adoption of dual-use protection and detection systems that are easy to use with minimal training. Much emphasis in CBRN protection has been on systems and technology but, if coupled with a lack of reliable human intelligence on the ground, this may hamper the ability of law enforcement or intelligence organisations to pre-empt attacks. This problem is heightened by the increased risk and incidence of so-called ‘lone wolf’ attacks, where a single individual may execute an attack on behalf of a particular political movement, exemplified by the mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida on 12 June which killed 49 people. The perpetrator, Omar Mateen who was killed by police during the attack, was ‘on the radar’ of the authorities, who may lack enough evidence to detain such individuals until the deed has been done. Many such lone operators, when not resorting to the bomb and the bullet, may also, or alternatively, have a penchant for trying to make Improvised Chemical Devices (ICDs) using poisons such as ricin neurotoxins which can be concocted from uncontrolled raw materials. Several such cases have reached
court in the past two years in the United Kingdom and US. Respiration Fundamental protection from CBRN is provided by an expanding variety of respiratory protection systems. For example, for first-responder use full Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) provides the highest level of respiratory protection to the user. SCBA systems are hence becoming modular, giving the responder an adaptive system for multiple scenarios. Hybrid systems such as those made by Scott Safety, based in the UK, offer a single man-portable ‘backpack’ of adaptable types of respiratory protection for the first responder to switch systems during an operation. Regarding the Scott Patriot 5510 hybrid Air Purifier Respirator, Powered Air Purifier Respirator and SCBA modular system, the power pack supports telemetry which can provide the responder’s location, position (moving, static or prone). The operator’s body temperature, pulse and breathing rate can all be monitored, as well as battery life and oxygen cylinder levels. Adaptable Detection Mobile, multi-threat CBRN monitoring systems for detection are increasingly used at public events. Environics’ Mobile CBRN Monitoring Systems are intended for temporary CBRN detection at dignitary
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meetings, sports and cultural events, for monitoring accidental releases of hazardous CBRN material on site by first responders, or safeguarding mobile, civilian or military command and control centres. Meanwhile, the company’s EnVision is a rugged, transportable stand-alone CBRN detection unit. The EnVision HRS is a system of unattended mobile chemical and radiation detection units networked to control centres via a radio link to provide CBRN detection across a wide area. Environics also offers hand-held portable devices and tools for mass-event protection, along with light CBRN reconnaissance vehicles and a specialised vehicle, known as the RanidSONNI (sic), for radiation detection and analysis. The military-grade, mobile Gossamer CBRN surveillance system designed for Special Forces for both military and civilian missions has several sensor fields: one sensor can field up to ten sensor nodes which send back information and analysis of potential threats to a command and control post. There are several adaptable, economical, self-contained, portable devices for chemical and biological detection on the market for first-responder use. The Aklus Shield J-Model system is such an example that rapidly detects and collects biological agents, and which can be outfitted with chemical and radiological sensors. This makes for a cost effective, single-platform, CBRN sensing solution for local police, hazmat teams, and first responders and can save on costs as the customer does not have to set up multiple sensing networks to cover
Rigaku
Environics
LAND WARFARE
The handheld Progeny ResQ produced by Rigaku Analytical Devices can indicate the overall threat level posed by the presence of multiple individual chemicals.
US Army
LAND WARFARE
Soldiers and airmen of the Maryland National Guard’s 32nd WMD CST (Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team) train aboard a US Navy display ship at the Washington Navy Yard during an exercise.
all CBRN threats. As the architecture is based on an open interface, customers can use their own sensors. Initial user training takes four hours at most and the system
can be set up and ready for use in less than five minutes, and the company states that the system has typical operating costs as low as $1 a day. Ideal applications for the
Shield-J include perimeter defence and critical infrastructure and building protection, as well as special event surveillance. Companies are aiming for equipment that can detect multiple threats. Rigaku Analytical Devices, which specialise in handheld detectors based on Raman spectroscopy (please see the ‘How It Works’ box for more information on this process) has produced the Progeny ResQ, which can indicate the overall threat level posed by the presence of multiple individual chemicals. Although the individual chemicals may not pose a threat, their combined presence could indicate the preparation of hazardous or illicit compounds. The Progeny ResQ is designed to save critical time by reducing the first responder’s reliance on off-site expert advice for CBRN analysis, as speed is often of the essence following a suspected attack. Chemical surveillance An increasingly necessary CBRN coun-
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US Army
LAND WARFARE
How It Works: Infrared Spectroscopy In infrared spectroscopy, IR (infrared) radiation is passed through a sample chemical substance. Some of the infrared radiation is absorbed by the sample, and some of it is passed through, or ‘transmitted’. The resulting light spectrum represents the molecular absorption and transmission, creating a molecular fingerprint of the sample. Like a fingerprint, no two unique molecular structures produce the same infrared spectrum, making the technique highly useful for identifying chemicals. Raman Spectroscopy works by shining a near IR laser at a chemical sample, and then by analysing the scattering of that light as it strikes the molecules of the sample. There are two types of scatter: elastic and inelastic. Elastic scatter comes off the sample at the same wavelength as the light coming in, whereas inelastic scatter is picked up as a series of peaks of colour, where some of the light energy interacts with the substance’s molecules. This elastic scatter signature can then be matched against a library of known chemicals to identify it.
A member of the Illinois National Guard’s 5th Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team (CST) checks her monitoring equipment during a CST external evaluation exercise.
termeasure is protecting buildings, public spaces, mass transit stations, and buildings from introduction of Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs) through air conditioning systems. As a joint effort BPSI and MKS Instruments has launched an ambient air analyser, the MKS AIRGARD, an ultrasensitive gas analyser based on the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy process to detect rapidly CW agents and other toxic gases (please see the ‘How It Works’ box for more information on this process). The AIRGARD analyser has undergone tests by the US Department of Defence (DoD) for its sensitivity, specificity, response time, and immunity to false positive alarms. This is vital to prevent unwarranted evacuation of buildings, associated interruptions of business, and emergency notifications when no threat materials are present in the building airflow. According to BPSI president Greg Eiler, “The ultra-low false alarm rates and excellent real world operational up-time make the AIRGARD a perfect addition to our line-up of high performance detection equipment focused on saving human life.”
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Training In the wake of Mr. Brennan’s assessment of ISIS’ CW capabilities, the US DoD is emphasising training and exercises to enhance CBRN readiness on the domestic front. This involves training emergency responders at the tactical level, who are in the front line of response to attacks, and commanders and government leaders at the operational and strategic levels with CBRN scenario and exercise development, post-drill reviews, and mobile training teams. The US National Guard WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) Civil Support Teams (CSTs) would be in the forefront of response to any intentional or unintentional release of CBRN materials. Their training programmes, which are prepared by leading defence company Battelle, have to be of the highest quality for the survivability, safety and sustainment of operations. Federal exercises to practice and assess coordinated emergency responses are frequently conducted, an example being a series from 2010 through 2014 at several nuclear power stations across the United States. Euro 2016 Closer to current events, fears of further ISIS attacks in France at the Euro 2016 soccer competition staged in June prompted the French security services to stage a simulated chemical attack at the Stadium Municipal in Toulouse, in the southwest of the country. Some 1200 volunteers acting as fans were treated by paramedics while armed police stormed the stadium. One drill simulated a similar scenario to the bomb and gun attack perpetrated by ISIS at the La Stade stadium in northern Paris in November 2015, while another simulated a sarin nerve gas attack. As there was a vast police presence needed to deal with several outbreaks of severe football violence in the first week of the contest, which attracted hundreds of thousands of fans from many countries, this begs the question as to whether the authorities could have dealt with a simultaneous attack at, or near, a stadium while such violence was ongoing? CBRN will always be the wildcard, but preparation for an attack has to continue on many fronts, both military and civilian, despite the cost.
air power
COINOperated In this article Armada focuses on the exclusively fixed-wing part of the light combat and Counterinsurgency (COIN) aircraft market, where the focus is on non-traditional warfare and border patrol as opposed to classic air combat tasks.
Thomas Newdick 34 armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
B
ack in 2006 the US Air Force (USAF) chief of staff General Norton Schwartz proposed that the service acquire 100 Light Armed Attack Aircraft (LAAR) in order to field a combat wing of the aircraft to support ongoing US-led combat operations in Afghanistan. Thus began a renewed focus on a class of light combat and COIN aircraft that had last seen significant development in the US during the country’s engagement in Southeast Asia between 1965 and 1975. The LAAR initiative was then reined in as part
This A-29 is one of the first four examples that were delivered to Afghanistan, arriving at Hamid Karzai International Airport in January 2016. The Afghan Air Force’s first eight combat-ready attack pilots undertook training with the USAF’s 81st Fighter Squadron at Moody airbase, Georgia.
of former US defence secretary Robert Gates’ cost-cutting measures. Plans for the USAF to acquire a light combat platform of its own were replaced instead by a proposal to assist ‘partner nations’ (such as Iraq and Afghanistan) in learning to operate such aircraft. In order to help select a platform, the US Air National Guard (ANG) conducted a demonstration of the Hawker Beechcraft AT-6B Texan-II (subsequently redesignated in the US the Beechcraft AT-6 Wolverine) in an effort separate to LAAR. Meanwhile, the US Navy’s Irregular Warfare Office conducted another demonstration, known as IMMINENT FURY, using the Embraer A-29/EMB-314 Super Tucano. Launched in 2009 as a follow-on to the LAAR programme, the USAF Light Air Support (LAS) solicitation was originally put out to potential vendors in October 2010. In December 2011 the USAF awarded a contract to Sierra Nevada for 20 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, but in March 2012 the USAF cancelled the LAS contract, with secretary of the air force Michael Donley stating the reason as being that “air force senior acquisition executive David Van Buren (was) not satisfied with the quality of the documentation supporting the award decision.” In May 2012 a new Request For Proposals (RFP)
The Embraer A-29 Super Tucano in one of its natural habitats; over the jungles of the Amazon region, in the hands of the Brazilian Air Force. Brazil became launch customer for the Super Tucano in 1995. FAB
USAF
air power
was issued. Finally, in February 2013 the LAS contract, now worth $427 million, was awarded again to Sierra Nevada. Market leader Within the market for turboprop light attack aircraft the EMB-314 Super Tucano and AT-6 Wolverine continue to lead the way. However, the EMB-314 maintains a clear dominance in terms of foreign customers, with around 190 examples delivered to date (including 99 for the Força Aérea Brasileira (FAB) / Brazilian Air Force), and orders for 30 more. Under the USAF’s LAS programme, 20 A-29s are being provided to the Afghan Air Force. By November 2015 Sierra Nevada had delivered 13 of the 20 aircraft on order, all of which are being assembled at a new plant in Jacksonville, Florida. The type began combat missions in Afghanistan earlier this year. Smaller numbers of the aircraft have been purchased by Angola, Burkina Faso, Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Lebanon, Mali, Mauritania and Senegal. As the major operator of the type, the FAB employs the A-29 within its SIVAM (System for the Vigilance of the Amazon) programme, which includes interception of illegal flights and light attack missions in the Amazon basin. The FAB also uses the type as an advanced trainer. In August 1995 Brazil placed an initial order for 50 single-seat A-29s and 50 twoseaters, later revised to a total of 99 aircraft. The first of these officially entered FAB service in 2004. Colombia was the first export customer for the A-29, receiving 25 examples from December 2006. These were also the first A-29s to see combat, going into action against communist guerrillas in January 2007. In November 2009 the Chilean Air Force received the first of twelve aircraft, these being the first to feature a full ‘glass’ cockpit, with three displays instead of two. The Dominican Republic received the first of eight aircraft in December 2009. In January 2010 Ecuador began receiving aircraft from an initial order of 24 that was later reduced to 18. The A-29 has also attracted interest from private security companies. The US contractor Blackwater (via its subsid-
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016 35
USAF
air power
A pilot and maintainer inspect a Dominican Republic A-29 Super Tucano prior to a night flight. Among its roles, the Dominican Republic uses its A-29s to detect and track illegal drug traffic.
iary EP Aviation), now called Academi, acquired one example in 2008 for training. The aircraft which was later sold to Tactical Air, was armed and received a forwardlooking infrared turret for use in the IMMINENT FURY programme (see above). African sales of the A-29 comprise three examples for Burkina Faso (delivered in 2011), six sold to Angola in 2012, three to Mauritania, three aircraft ordered by Senegal in April 2013, three aircraft donated to Mozambique by the Brazilian government in March 2014, six sold to Mali in June 2015 and five aircraft sold to Ghana in the same month. The A-29’s presence in the Asia-Pacific was launched by Indonesia, which had received an initial eight aircraft by 2014; Jakarta is currently negotiating a second batch of eight aircraft. In the Middle East, a Lebanese order for six A-29s was confirmed in November 2015. These aircraft will be built in the US by Sierra Nevada at a cost of $172.5 million. The rivals Like its Brazilian A-29 counterpart, the AT-6 Wolverine is based on the airframe of a turboprop trainer, in this case the
successful T-6 Texan-II, 900 of which have been built or are on order. While the Wolverine was developed to meet the USAF’s LAAR requirement (see above), some of the T-6s have also been delivered in armed configurations. These include 20 Greek T-6As capable of carrying external fuel tanks and unguided weapons, Moroccan T-6Cs that feature a ‘glass’ cockpit, stores management system and underwing hardpoints, and the Mexican T-6C+ that also offers weapons capabilities. Beechcraft has flown three AT-6 prototype/demonstrator aircraft and despite its loss in the LAS competition, USAF/Air National Guard-funded trials have continued, including test firings of the BAE Systems Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) and Raytheon Talon laser-guided rockets. A potential launch customer for the AT-6 is Iraq, which already operates 15 unarmed T-6A trainers. The US State Department has approved a possible deal for up to 24 aircraft for Iraq. Beyond the established players in the field, there are a number of other entrants in the fixed-wing light combat and COIN category. In South Africa, Pretoria-based
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aerospace group, Aerosud has developed the all-new Advanced High-Performance Reconnaissance Light Aircraft (AHRLAC). Developed to fulfil the manned airborne COIN role as well as for use as a surveillance platform, the AHRLAC is promoted as being ideal for emergency relief and disaster management situations. Aimed as a low-cost solution for developing countries, the aircraft is powered by a Pratt and Whitney Canada PT6A-66 turboprop. Speaking to Armada, Aerosud’s new business development executive Leon Potgieter outlined the programme’s achievements to date: “The AHRLAC has been going along very strong and we have accumulated 150 total hours on the aircraft. We have had zero failures and no breakdown, which is a great testimony to how the aircraft has been built. We have deployed the aircraft on various missions above the normal testing of the aircraft to test operational capability. We are also in the process of building a second aircraft. This aircraft will have more advanced avionics, retractable landing gear, onboard oxygen and will have ejection seats from onset. We are also in the process of
air power
partnering up with various suppliers.” Earlier this year Paramount announced an agreement with Boeing under which the two firms will jointly weaponise and integrate Boeing mission systems and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) payloads for the AHRLAC. Boeing will actively market the aircraft alongside Paramount to target international customers. As part of the marketing drive, the militarised AHRLAC has received the name Mwari. Developed on the basis of an agricultural aircraft, the Air Tractor AT-802U was introduced in 2009 and is marketed primarily for the armed surveillance mission. Speaking to this publication, Air Tractor’s vice president of business development Charles Miller revealed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt and Jordan currently operate a total of 28 AT-802U aircraft. “In addition we have 14 aircraft that have been operating in Colombia, which are armoured but not armed, for the last 15 years. We have a sale for twelve additional aircraft to a Middle East country and have on-going discussions in the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Africa and South America. We have recently teamed with L-3 Communications to develop the AT-802L model which has several upgrades compared to the U-model.” Mr Miller also explained that the company would continue to market the baseline AT-802U and as well as the new AT802L, also known as the Longsword. While Air Tractor has teamed up with L-3 Communications as systems integrator for the AT-802, the original integrator, IOMAX, continues to have a stake in the market. IOMAX was originally contracted by the UAE to supply 24 AT-802 platforms, before launching its own Archangel aircraft. IOMAX uses the Thrush 710P agricultural aircraft as the basis for its Archangel, which made its public debut in 2015. The UAE has also acquired the Archangel, and as deliveries have continued, some of
the previous AT-802U aircraft have been passed on to allies in the region, including Jordan and Yemen. Legacy Platforms In terms of legacy fixed-wing COIN platforms, the Fabrica Argentina de Aviones (FAdeA) IA-58 Pucará is one of the more established, and this twin-engine turboprop entered service in Argentina in 1976. A total of 105 aircraft were completed and delivered to Argentina, Sri Lanka and Uruguay. Currently, FAdeA is working on a IA-58 upgrade, which is progressing along two different paths, as Latin American aerospace analyst Santiago Rivas explains. “One upgrade path concerns the avionics, to install an inertial navigation system, a Head-Up Display (HUD) and other systems, which are currently being tested. The other area concerns new Pratt and Whitney Canada PT6A-62 engines.” Argentina hopes to upgrade 20 of its IA-58s to the IA-58H standard by the end of 2020. Mr. Rivas confirmed that the new engines will also be offered to Uruguay, which maintains a fleet of eight aircraft, of which only two remain operational. Facing a shortage of spares for the type, Uruguay is considering the retirement of the IA-58. Ground tests of the new powerplant began in August 2015. Another Cold War-era COIN aircraft the Rockwell International/Boeing OV-10 Bronco has returned to prominence in recent years. Under the Combat Dragon II initiative, two OV-10G+ aircraft were modified for a “warfighter rapid-response programme” on behalf of the US Navy. Combat Dragon II saw the OV-10G+s tested for their suitability in a COIN environ-
38 armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
Beechcraft
A pair of Beechcraft AT-6 Wolverines toting an impressive load of weapons including laser-guided bombs, rockets and gun pods. Also visible under the fuselage of the aircraft is the forward-mounted FLIR Systems AN/AAQ-22 Star SAFIRE II surveillance and targeting turret.
ment, including combat trials against the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and Syria insurgent organisation. Modifications included a digital cockpit upgrade and the ability to fire 69.8mm (2.75 inches) and 127mm (five inch) APKWS rockets, and an off-the-shelf sensor turret under the nose. Turboprop Team Following the lead of Embraer and Beechcraft, a number of manufacturers of turboprop trainers now offer adaptations
air power
Woong-Bee trainer. The manufacturer completed 85 examples of the KT-1 basic trainer for the RoK and had delivered the KT-1B export version to Indonesia. The KA-1 was developed primarily as a Forward Air Control (FAC) aircraft for the Republic of Korea Air Force. Development began in 2000, with the addition of a weapons management system and related cockpit display, HUD, hands on throttle and stick controls and underwing hardpoints. In December 2003 a contract for 20 aircraft was awarded and deliveries of these aircraft were undertaken between August 2005 and October 2007. Serbia’s Utva, meanwhile, has developed the Kobac (Sparrowhawk) as a light attack version of its Lasta-95 trainer, which is in service with Serbia and has been exported to Iraq (20 examples). Progress on the Kobac, however, has been slow, as confirmed by local military analyst Igor Salinger. “A full-scale mock-up has been completed, using an old Lasta-2 airframe, PT6 turboprop engine and wingtip fuel tanks, and was shown to the public in 2012.
IOMAX
of their aircraft for light attack and COIN roles. The Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) Hürkuş-C is the light attack counterpart to the Hürkuş-A primary and basic trainer and the Hürkuş-B advanced trainer. Ünsiye Nazlı Demiröz, a TAI spokesperson, outlined the status of the programme. “Hürkuş-C is the modified version of Hürkuş-B that will be capable of fulfilling operational requirements of both training and armed reconnaissance missions and compliant with light air support aircraft and light attack/armed reconnaissance aircraft requirements. Hürkuş-C preliminary design activities are on-going … Within the scope of the Hürkuş programmes, fourHürkuş-A aircraft have been produced. A total of 15 Hürkuş-B aircraft will be produced for the Turkish Air Force. Contract negotiations between TAI and different counties for Hürkuş aircraft continue. We have target markets and potential future customers.” In the Republic of Korea (RoK), Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) offers its KA-1 as a light attack derivative of the KT-1
Representing a new development in the light attack/COIN segment are adapted versions of established agricultural aircraft designs. This is an example of the IOMAX Archangel, based on the Thrush 710P two-seat crop-duster.
So far no sales have been reported.” In the meantime, however, Iraq has begun to operate its Lasta-95s in a COIN role, equipping these aircraft with unguided rockets, gun pods, and ‘dumb’ bombs. Mr. Salinger considers it unlikely that the Kobac project will be completed unless a customer can be found in advance to secure the funding required for development. The latest entrant in the turboprop trainer market is the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Hindustan Turbo Trainer (HTT) 40, which completed its first flight in May 2016. HAL hopes to build 200 HTT-40s, and has announced plans to export a ‘weaponised’ version. Reports in the Indian media suggest that HAL has identified potential customers including Afghanistan, Burma and certain unnamed African nations. The renegade Unique among the aircraft in this study is the Textron AirLand Scorpion, a jetpowered entrant in the light attack/COIN marketplace. Although it is yet to win any orders as a trainer or combat aircraft, the Scorpion has attracted interest from a variety of potential operators. Billed as a lightweight reconnaissance and strike aircraft, the Scorpion was announced in December 2013 and before long was being linked with possible sales to Nigeria and the UAE. The innovation behind the Scorpion extends to its extensive use of off-the-shelf commercial parts. “We routinely make software updates to the avionics system in days, not months,” noted Dale Tutt, the Scorpion’s chief engineer. Textron AirLand claim an operating cost of just $3000 per hour for the Scorpion, and a unit price of less than $20 million per aircraft. While a traditional force of fighter aircraft remains the ultimate goal of most air forces, aircraft like the Scorpion demonstrate that significant capability can be brought to bear at a fraction of the cost. Furthermore, while certain missions will continue to be dominated by high-performance jets, the performance of lightweight COIN types in recent asymmetric combat environments demonstrates that there is a clear niche in which these dedicated light attack platforms will invariably excel.
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016 39
Sukhoi
Programme FOCUS
Sukhoi was selected to fulfil the Russian MoD's PAK FA requirement for a new tactical fighter, beating its rival MiG.
The Generation
Game
On 27 April 2016 the latest example of Russia’s fifth-generation fighter, the Sukhoi T-50-6-2, performed its maiden flight. This test aircraft, described by the design bureau as the first of the ‘second stage’ prototypes, marked an important milestone for the programme. Thomas Newdick
H
owever, in recent months the programme has suffered a number of setbacks, such that the prospects of its long-term success must now be in some doubt. Work to create today’s T-50 began in earnest in the late 1990s under the PAK FA (Future Air Complex of Tactical Aviation) programme. In April 2002, the government selected Sukhoi’s T-50 design for the PAK FA requirement
in favour of a rival proposal from Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG. In July 2003 the Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) awarded Sukhoi a contract for research and development work, including detailed design, construction and testing of a series of T-50 prototypes. The preliminary design of the T-50 received Russian Air Force approval in December 2004. Manufacture of the T-50 is being undertaken by the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Plant, which is
40 armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
wholly owned by the Sukhoi company. A first prototype (T-50-1) recorded the type’s maiden flight on January 29, 2010. Initial test fleet While prototype T-50-1 has been used to evaluate flight-handling characteristics, the subsequent T-50-2 (first flown in March 2011) features a strengthened airframe and has been used for test work at high g-loads and angles of attack. T-50-1
and T-50-2 both lack mission systems, but T-50-2 has been used to test essential aircraft systems, including the weapons bay doors and inflight-refuelling probe. First flown in November 2011, T-50-3 is the first to feature the Tikhomirov NIIP N036 Byelka radar, albeit lacking the planned side antennae, which will be used to widen the radar’s search and tracking angles.T-50-3 also introduced certain sensors from the UOMZ/Yekaterinburg 101KS Atoll optronics suite. Minor airframe changes are also incorporated in T-50-3, including modified wingtips, compared to previous prototypes. Compared to T-50-3, the subsequent T-50-4 (first flown in December 2012) has a revised optronics suite and is likely fitted with the KNIRTI/ Zhukov L402 Gimalai Electronic Warfare (EW) self-protection suite. Further changes to the 101KS Atoll optronics suite especially for a stealth aircraft, shows that were incorporated in T-50-5 (first flown in October 2013). This aircraft lacks the 101KS- the airframe has real problems.” In effect, argues Mr. Bronk, the T-50 represents a U ultraviolet missile approach warning “very heavily modified (Sukhoi Su-27/30/35 system, but includes two, instead of one, Flanker fighter) airframe,” with all the 101KS-O optronics locator turrets, includcompromises in terms of radar cross-secing a new 101KS-O/N sensor located below tion that this brings. the forward fuselage. T-50-6 had been planned as the last of Second Stage the ‘first stage’ flying prototypes, but was In 2012 the Russian MoD placed orders abandoned after T-50-5 suffered an accifor the next batch of test aircraft, for the dent in June 2014. Soon after landing at the experimental airfield at Zhukovsky, outside ‘second stage’ of the programme. Although a first such test aircraft was due to fly in Moscow, smoke was seen emerging from autumn 2015, it eventually took to the T-50-5’s right engine air intake, followed by air in late April 2016. The United Aircraft a localised fire. The aircraft was returned Corporation, of which the Sukhoi comto Komsomolsk in Russia’s far east, and pany is a subsidiary, announced that three repaired using parts from the unfinished ‘second stage’ flying prototypes were due T-50-6, after which the aircraft was redesignated T-50-5R. “Essentially the PAK FA to be completed. The first of these to fly is the aforementioned T-50-6-2 (see above). programme hasn’t seen any real progress in Meanwhile, T-50-6-1 appears to refer to the last five years,” contends Justin Bronk, a research fellow specialising in combat air- a ‘second stage’ static test airframe that is alternatively designated as T-50-7. Anpower and technology at the Royal United Services Institute in London. “If you look at nounced plans, which are almost certainly over-optimistic, called for eight pre-series its closest competitor, the Lockheed Martin aircraft to follow the prototypes. ReportF-22A Raptor, the combination of airframe edly designated T-50S, these aircraft were and engine didn’t take too long to develop to be completed between 2016 and 2018. compared to nearly a decade of systems development and bug fixing for the former.” Thereafter, series production would be launched in 2019. Mr. Bronk believes that the T-50 The PAK FA has been designed to meet airframe/engine combination has still the requirements of the Russian Air Force not been frozen, as evidenced by repeated (RuAF). A Russian MoD pilot first flew a measures to strengthen the wings. “The T-50 at the flight test centre in April 2013. In fact that they still have to patch the wings,
Sukhoi
Programme FOCUS
Vortices stream from the upper surfaces of T-50-4, the fourth PAK FA prototype. This aircraft features a slightly different array of optronics sensors, and has also been used for weaponscarriage trials, including external ordnance.
February 2014, the T-50-2 was first deployed to Akhtubinsk in western Russia, while T-503 was delivered to the centre for the first stage of state acceptance trials in December 2014. “Compared to public announcements, the PAK FA programme has suffered delays,” notes Russian aerospace observer Piotr Butowski. In fact, this is to be expected, since the dates promised by Russian officials since the very beginning of the programme have never appeared realistic. After the first flight in 2010, it was stated that state acceptance tests would commence in 2013, and deliveries of production T-50s to military units would begin in 2015. “During tests, the T-50 prototypes suffered structural cracks even flying with the g-load limited to five. For this reason, T-50-1 was under overhaul for over a year between August 2011 and September 2012 after suffering structural damage during a display at Moscow’s International Aviation and Space Salon (MAKS) exhibition in 2011. Thereafter, various strengthening additions appeared on the airframes. The structure of the production aircraft will be considerably improved.” As well as the aforementioned mishap suffered by T-50-5, there have been several incidents in which aircraft have encountered engine problems. In August 2011, T-50-2 suffered an engine compressor stall, leading to an aborted takeoff. During a test flight in April 2015 a T-50’s cockpit canopy cracked. Under published plans, the Russian
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016 41
The Indian Connection In the same way that Indian MoD orders allowed Sukhoi to develop the multirole Su-30MKI fighter (now in service with the Indian Air Force, which was in turn
Successive T-50 prototypes received slightly different equipment fits and modifications in terms of structure and aerodynamics, with the aim of finalising the design for the ‘second stage’ of the programme, which aims to field a production-representative airframe.
The T-50’s tail ‘sting’ houses elements of the KNIRTI/Zhukov L402 Gimalai electronic warfare self-protection suite. The fairing between the engine exhausts also accommodates three 14-round countermeasures dispensers produced by Vympel.
‘Russianised’ as the Su-30SM for the RuAF), so India’s willingness to buy the T-50 will have a significant influence on its future prospects. In January 2003, Moscow and New Delhi signed a letter of intent covering the joint development of what India describes as the Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA). An inter-governmental agreement followed in October 2007. A contract covering the preliminary design of the FGFA was signed in December 2010. Sukhoi and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) are jointly developing the fighter on the basis of the T-50. A number of changes are planned for the Indian Air
42 armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
Sukhoi
MoD had hoped to declare initial operational capability and launch full-scale series production of the T-50 by the end of December 2016. The Russian National Armament Programme, which outlines the procurement priorities for the Russian military, called for 60 T-50s to be acquired by 2020. These plans will not be realised, and the Russian MoD has begun to make contingency plans in light of delays to the PAK FA programme, and perhaps broader concerns over its capabilities. In March 2015 the Russian deputy minister of defence Yuri Borisov announced that a reduced number of T-50s, perhaps as few as twelve, might be purchased by 2020. The T-50’s chances are hampered by the availability of Sukhoi Su-30SM and Su-35 fighters, the latest iterations of the Flanker family. These two lower-cost options, already in operational service with the RuAF, provide an alternative to the T-50, at least in the short to medium term.
Sukhoi
Programme FOCUS
Force (IAF) version, including the addition of the Tikhomirov NIIP N079 radar, in place of the N036 Byelka radar on the RuAF T-50s, and export versions of countermeasures and weapon management systems, for example. Like their Russian counterparts, when it comes to the FGFA, Indian defence officials have provided a mix of unrealistic timescale targets (including launch of production in India in 2018-19) and threats of reduced acquisition totals. In early 2015 the Indian chief of air staff Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha confirmed that the quantity of fighters that India will acquire is still undetermined, and will depend on financial factors. Angad Singh, a New Delhi-based defence analyst, suggests that the most important factor facing the FGFA is the fact it is a government-to-government programme, meaning its ultimate fate rests with a political decision, and not the IAF. “The IAF has repeatedly signalled a willingness to sacrifice the FGFA if it means they can shore up fighter numbers in the short term. The hugely expensive MMRCA (Medium Multirole Combat Aircraft) programme, and now the government-to-government Dassault Rafale-F3 fighter acquisition deal have priority at the (IAF) headquarters, and multiple pronouncements by multiple officers have indicated that they are willing to push back or scale down (or both) the FGFA in favour of a more immediate fourth-generation buy.”
Mr. Singh also believes that the IAF is not happy with the current or even promised capabilities of the FGFA. “They would never admit it in public, but the Su- 30MKI fleet is a huge headache from a reliability perspective, with the engines a particular concern.” As its power plant, the T-50 currently employs two Saturn/ Rybinsk AL-41F1 thrust-vectoring turbofans. Despite its new name, as Mr. Singh points out, the AL-41F1 engine is essentially an upgrade of the AL-31F as used in the Su-27/Su-30 fighters, albeit with improvements including a larger-diameter fan, new highand low-pressure turbines, an upgraded combustion chamber and a new Full-Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system, by which the engine is controlled in an entirely computerised manner. According to Mr. Butowski, AL-41F1 engines will power T-50 fighters “at least until 2020”. After this date, they are expected to be fitted with the Izdeliye-30 turbofan, a completely new design. Mr. Singh continues, “as an operator of multiple Russian fighter types, the IAF is familiar with Russian technological limitations … There is a lack of confidence that the Izdeliye-30 engines will be delivered on time and on spec.” Indian confidence in the T-50 is also eroded by Russian reluctance to share test data and take part in prototype evaluation. “IAF officers are incredibly unhappy that the Russians are not letting them get their hands on even the T-50 prototypes. An Indian delegation was present when T-50-5 caught fire, and reportedly the Russians wouldn’t tell them what had gone wrong and wouldn’t let them near the aircraft once the fire had been put out. That’s the sort of behaviour that upsets prospective customers.” Compounding Indian unease is the RuAF decision to induct only a small batch of series-production T-50s before committing to a full-scale production. Aside from India, however, export prospects for the T-50 are somewhat limited. “The classic market for top-end Russian equipment is the People’s Republic of China (PRC),” Mr. Bronk notes. The PRC, however, has taken a different path to developing its own advanced fighters. “Having stolen so much data, the PRC is in a better position to develop indigenous fifth-generation fighters. In terms of countries to willing to buy fighters from Russia, these tend to need to bolster their air defences quickly, and above all cheaply.” While there have been claims that the T-50’s unit cost will be “comparable to the latest Flanker series, (the Su-35),” Mr. Bronk considers that this is clearly unrealistic. Furthermore, with the Su-35 available and in quantity production, this option represents a very good deal in itself. “For $65 million, very little comes close to the Su-35,” he adds. While the PRC develops its own comparable fifth-generation fighters, India was hopeful that joining Russia to co-develop the FGFA would provide a head start for its own aerospace industry. “So far, there is little clarity on Indian industrial participation, beyond the fact that HAL is to be the lead integrator for the Indian production effort,” says Mr. Singh. “It’s early to be talking about industrial participation anyway, since everything seems to have gone sideways. The Russians have done most, if not all the development work. If India stumps up the $6 billion the Russians were asking for, they will essentially be paying for instructions on how to build a fighter whose development is all but complete. I think even the Russians have recognised this and revised their ask
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For now, the T-50 is powered by a pair of Saturn/Rybinsk AL-41F (Izdeliye 117) thrust-vectoring turbofans. This engine is an evolution of the 117S that has already been proven on the Su-35S fighter. Around 2020 the all-new Izdeliye 30 engine should be ready for the T-50.
downwards to around $3.7 billion.” The FGFA programme is also being run against a backdrop of severe budgetary constraint within the Indian MoD. Current priorities include regeneration of the Indian Navy’s submarine fleet, and mechanisation and modernisation of the Indian Army. “The IAF needs to address a critical fighter shortfall,” Mr. Singh adds. “By virtue of being of being further down the list in chronological terms, the FGFA simply isn’t getting a lot of attention from the IAF, the MoD and the administration at large.” Even if the T-50 fails to make headway, Russia may yet benefit from its experience in developing a fifth-generation combat aircraft. Mr. Bronk envisages a situation in which Russia may export its expertise gained in the programme to other countries working to develop advanced fighters. Outside of India, these currently include the PRC, the Republic of Korea and Turkey. Concluding his analysis of the prospects of the FGFA in India, Mr. Singh told Armada, “I personally don’t rate the FGFA’s chances of success highly. It’s expensive, and therefore will give the MoD pause, while the IAF simply does not want it in its current or proposed forms. But in the world of politics and diplomacy, anything can change. If it comes down to giving the Russians a gift after ignoring them in favour of the Americans and Europeans in so many military purchases over the past
decade or so, $4 billion might prove to be very good value after all.” Currently, it is clear that the FGFA programme is at a standstill, and much of the future success of the T-50 hangs on this factor. “Nothing is certain now that the programme schedule is not being adhered to,” says Mr. Singh. “The two countries were supposed to have signed the Research and Development (R and D) contract immediately after the conclusion of the preliminary design contract. But when the technical issues and problems with work share emerged in the R and D stage, the contract stalled and has been stalled ever since.”
44 armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
For Mr. Bronk, the T-50 is limited by the fact that its design represents a “halfway house,” in which compromises are made in terms of a low Radar Cross Section (RCS) in order to maximise manoeuvrability. “With the T-50, Sukhoi is pursuing a weird hybrid in terms of technology doctrine. A lot of sacrifices have been made in terms of very low observable characteristics in order to enhance manoeuvrability. There has been little interest shown in terms of situational awareness (the aircraft’s sensor and communications package) or all-aspect stealth.” On the other hand, while analysts often highlight the T-50’s engine air intakes as a low RCS weak point, this might not be an issue once the planned ‘radar blockers’ are installed. These are air intakes which are designed in such a fashion as to shield the engines’ spinning fan blades from radar detection. However, if its low RCS characteristics are truly compromised, then why should the RuAF, or indeed potential export customers, choose the T-50 over the tried, tested and, cheaper, Su-30 and Su-35?
Two tandem weapons bays between the engines are intended to carry up to four medium-range Vympel K-77M air-to-air missiles (AAMs), while two short-range Vympel K-74M2 AAMs can be carried in underwing fairings.
Sukhoi
Sukhoi
Programme FOCUS
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TURING
The Other End of the Line During May and June the war against ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) gradually gathered strength in an all-out campaign by Iraqi and other forces to retake territory occupied by the world’s most dangerous insurgent group of recent times. Andy Oppenheimer
H
owever, even if the group is eventually defeated in the Middle East and North Africa (it is now operational in Libya), it still has the ability to encourage attacks, applying its usual, relentless modus operandi of suicide bombings and mass shootings. To this end, its use of digital communications is vital to launching and promoting such attrocities. Apart from being the best-financed extremist organisation to date, ISIS has adopted constant and unparalleled use of the Internet to recruit and inspire, to disseminate its ideology, to raise funds, and to broadcast propaganda before and after attacks. Of increasing concern is ISIS’ ability to launch multiple forms of cyberattack. Its territorial gains in Iraq and Syria, the influx of foreign fighters to wage war in these areas, the volume of online propaganda it disseminates, and the deadly attacks in Paris it performed in November 2015, all required concerted policy action by nations at risk from the organisation. The perpetrator of the recently-foiled attack on the Thalys train which runs between Paris and Brussels on 21 August 2015 was listening to a YouTube audio file calling for violent action in the name of Muhammad, immediately beforehand. Almost every attack or pre-empted plot has been followed by the almost inevitable reports that the suspected perpetrator was influenced or radicalised by ISIS on the Internet.
Global Reach Al-Qaeda had already made inroads into the World Wide Web and other groups follow its example, but ISIS has exceeded these efforts, paradoxically employing 21st century technology to promote its antediluvian ideology and practices of mass killings, torture, rape, enslavement, economic jihad and the destruction of antiquities. As well as the better-known Facebook and Twitter social media outlets, to reach new audiences ISIS use Ask.fm, Pinterest, YouTube, WordPress, Kik, WhatsApp and Tumblr to spread its message. ISIS are on a far larger scale and intensity than any insurgent organisation, either contemporary or erstwhile. This gives it a truly global reach. An indicator of that reach can be seen in the increase of Internet use this century: in 2005 there were one billion users; by 2010, two billion; by 2014, three billion; and by mid-2016, over 3.5 billion, according to Internet World Stats Usage and Population Statistics. Today, a young recruit from Africa can be drawn in via Twitter by a faceless cyber-operative somewhere in Syria. Lone Wolves Online propaganda has succeeded in radicalising individuals who have travelled to fight with ISIS in Syria and Iraq, and increasingly, to commit ‘lone wolf’ attacks in the West, exemplified most recently by the deadliest mass shooting in modern
46 armadainternational.com - august/september 2016
The US NORTHCOM (Northern Command) Joint Cyber Control Centre involved 60 US and German soldiers and airmen in a ccyber defence exercise called Operation DEUCE LIGHTNING in February 2011.
times in the United States when an ISISinspired US-born gunman shot dead 49 people at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, on 11 June. The perpetrator, Omar Mateen (later killed by police) was radicalised online. The difference between recruiting through these channels and other, more traditional methods of recruitment (see below) is that while some of it can be tracked by the authorities, the recipients, especially those prone to radicalisation for a variety of reasons, can be sucked into it in a way not seen in ‘normal’ insurgent recruitment (which ISIS also uses) namely face-to-face communication, persuasion or threats of violence. Online recruitment is essentially invisible recruitment. Recruitment online follows three stages: individuals in the preradicalisation phase visit extremist home pages, watch videos with subtitles in their
US DoD
TURING
they are, knock on their doors and behead them, stab them, shoot them in the face or bomb them.” Example 2 The Spanish police detained four people accused of promoting Islamist militancy, as part of an ongoing operation outside Madrid in early March. The Spanish Interior Ministry said three of the suspects were from Morocco and the fourth was Spanish, arrested under suspicion of promoting militancy to hundreds of people through instant messaging and other social media before directly contacting smaller groups. They are among 23 arrested in Spain this year for suspected links to terrorism. Example 3 Jihadists fighting with ISIS have turned to social media sites like Facebook to sell female sex slaves, forcing so-called ‘sexual jihad’ on thousands of captured women from Kurdish, Yazidi (a Kurdish minority which does not follow Islam) and Shiite territories in the past two years. Militants can buy and sell the slaves as they wish in the self-declared ISIS caliphate, with some women being handed over as prizes of war or to settle debts. Although ISIS militants have to pay a small tax, the trade in sex slaves is a burgeoning part of the insurgent’s economy.
Example 1 In May ISIS-linked hackers published a ‘hit list’ of dozens of home addresses and photographs of over 70 US military personnel that the group claimed to have been involved in Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) attacks on targets in Syria. The hackers, who have links with the United Kingdom, and call themselves the ‘Islamic State Hacking Division’, took the information from social media sites and circulated online the personnel’s names, home addresses and photographs. They urged supporters: “Kill them wherever
US Army
own language and read radical articles. They interact with extremist members, then with professional recruiters. Just three examples provide a sample of how ISIS uses cyber methods to enhance their deadly campaign of terror.
On the military front, the US Army has begun attacking ISIS networks as part of its efforts to degrade the force, alongside the kinetic missions which it is continuing in Iraq and Syria.
armadainternational.com - august/september 2016 47
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hacking the) Newsweek Twitter Accounts and even the Twitter account of CENTCOM (US Central Command).” Government Countermeasures On the military front, the US Army has begun attacking ISIS networks, according to US defence secretary Ashton Carter “to interrupt (and) disrupt (ISIS’) command and control, to cause them to lose confidence in their networks, to overload their network so that they can’t function, and do all of these things that will interrupt their ability to command and control forces there, control the population and the economy.” The challenges to counter a global presence in cyberspace, however, are enormous, and have their own limits as to how far governments can go in removing the content of insurgent websites and social media postings. Countries have begun to remove content and block accounts associated with political violence. In February 2015, the US government convened a summit on countering violent extremism, which discussed extremist use of social media. By March 2015 the UK had removed 75000 pieces of content from the Internet but this did not at the time reduce the number of radicalised recruits travelling from the UK to fight extremist jihad overseas. Furthermore as soon as the accounts are removed, more appear. The online reach of ISIS must be taken in the context of it continuing to wield control in its caliphate areas in Iraq and Syria, as well as spreading to parts of North Africa and the Asia-Pacific (please see the author’s Chemical Memory article in this issue). Some observers believe that recruitment on the Web (and particularly, on the heavily encrypted Dark Web) depends on it maintaining its military, administrative, economic and social dominance in the territories it occupies. This means taking more land, or reoccupying areas that have been seized by Iraqi and Kurdish forces. IBM
Cyber Caliphate As well as using the Internet as a recruitment and propaganda tool, ISIS, along with a host of other criminals worldwide, are launching cyber attacks. These have advanced from various uncoordinated groups without direct association with the caliphate to the formation of a fullyfledged operation in early 2016 known as ISIS’ ‘United Cyber Caliphate’. Of concern is that well-educated young people will be attracted to contribute to this cyber division, and that their efforts will take down websites, often through massive Distributed Denial Of Service (DDOS) attacks to disrupt infrastructure, and produce further recruitment, support, and attacks. Within the ‘United Cyber Caliphate’ the ISIS ‘hacking division’ selects targets and assesses the value of sensitive data from past attacks. Second, the ‘cyber recruitment drive is a programme to find skilled hackers who are tasked with using malware (malicious software) and hacking tools. These young cyber-attackers are trained on courses found on ‘Dark Web Forums’. The Dark Web is a broad term for content on the World Wide Web which requires dedicated software or authorisations to access and which thus cannot be reached by normal search engines. While many rank-and-file ISIS recruits are uneducated or have criminal records, this separate recruitment effort is attracting well-educated ‘clean skins’ with IT (Information Technology) skills. According to Laith Alkhouri, co-founder at Flashpoint, a pioneer of Dark Web Intelligence, “not long back, we rated the cyber threat from them as mediocre and without the acumen for sophisticated targeting. But ISIS cyber attacks have entered a new dimension (by
IBM X-Force Exchange users can tap into threat information based on the monitoring of more than 15 billion security events per day.
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Challenging Recruitment Government deradicalisation programmes (such as Prevent and Channel in the UK) involve advising community leaders how to resist the ISIS online message, along with the creation of alternative websites. Government agencies post ‘counter’ messages on Twitter and other social media, yet these efforts are not widely viewed as effective. The programme run on Twitter by the US State Department’s Centre for Strategic Counterterrorism Communications (CSCC) called ‘Think again, turn away’ is aimed at potential ISIS recruits, but, according to Daniel Cohen, coordinator of the cyber warfare programme at the Institute for National Security Studies in Tel Aviv, Israel, “It’s not reaching the right population. It’s not reaching the potential jihadists.” This really is the hard part: The prime challenge is to target, identify and connect with all those who are absorbing content from ISIS and other extremist groups, and becoming radicalised. Civilian Surveillance Countering Internet-based political violence is opening up controversial debates about civil liberties, as it is pushing the UK, the US and other democracies to bring in more surveillance of overall Internet use by the public at large. In May,
US Army
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Inside the US Army’s Fort Gordon Cyber Operations Centre in Georgia. The force is one of many of the US armed services investing in its cyber capabilities.
the French National Assembly, the country’s parliament, adopted legislation that expanded the government’s surveillance authorities to counter such threats. The UK government is pushing the Investigative Powers Bill through parliament, which will “bring together all of the powers already available to law enforcement and the security and intelligence agencies to obtain communications and data about communications” and “make provision for the retention of Internet connection records for law enforcement to identify the communications service to which a device has connected.” The Bill is controversial partly because, according to points raised by the shadow home secretary Andy Burnham who speaks on domestic security matters for the opposition in the UK parliament, “routine gathering of large quantities of information from ordinary people does lead to privacy concerns and should be as targeted as possible … It is for the government still to convince the public that these powers are needed.” Hackers vs. hackers In the wake of the ISIS bombings in Brussels on 22 March, the hacktivist group Anonymous announced (anonymously, of course) that it would intensify its cyber-
war on ISIS, which it dubbed ‘Op Brussels’. This involves “hacking their websites, shutting down their Twitter accounts and stealing their Bitcoins (an online virtual currency).” Anonymous first launched several waves of disruption (‘Operation ISIS’) at the group’s sites following the January 2015 attack on the French Charlie Hebdo satirical newspaper, stating, “From now on, there is no safe place for you online.” They claim to have “severely punished (ISIS) on the (Dark Web), hacked their electronic portfolio, and stole money from (its members).” However, it is not clear how effective the campaign is judging by the continuing presence of ISIS on the Web, but it continues apace. As well as government countermeasures, much also depends on how far the private sector is prepared, or able, to police cyberspace. In 2010 the UK opened a Counter-Terrorism Internet Referral Unit, in cooperation with companies, to address Internet activities that violate legal prohibitions against glorifying or inciting acts of political violence. President Barack Obama has introduced cyber security reforms that require the private sector to share information about cyber threats with the government, to crack down on the sale of botnets (which can be used to send ‘spam’ or perform DDOS attacks), and to prosecute insiders who exceed their authorised access to online networks. The companies catering to the cyber security market can be broadly classified into security vendors and defence companies. The former are companies engaged in designing, manufacturing, and delivering information security products, services and solutions to defence and government organisations. Some of the most prominent security vendors in the cyber security market are Cisco Systems, IBM, the Intel Security Group, Dell SecureWorks, Symantec Corporation, and Kaspersky Lab. Defence companies engaged in developing cyber security and network security software to prevent cyber attacks on military software systems include BAE Systems, General Dynamics, Leonardo (formerly Finmeccanica), Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon and Thales.
Active/Passive Defence To protect against actual cyber attacks, products such as firewalls, cryptography and intrusion detection are produced in rapid succession to protect organisational IT assets; this is known as ‘passive defence’. ‘Active defence’ imposes serious risk or penalty on the attacker as this involves identification and exposure, investigation and prosecution, pre-emptive or counter-attacks (as per the Anonymous campaign). The former tends to be the province of companies, the latter, mainly for legal reasons, of governments; for example in the US, the National Infrastructure Protection Centre. At the corporate level, IBM has made its vast library of security intelligence data available via the IBM X-Force Exchange, a new cyber threat intelligence sharing platform powered by the IBM Cloud that allows organisations to easily collaborate on security incidents. This collaborative platform provides access to global volumes of actionable IBM and third-party threat data, including real-time indicators of live attacks, which can be used to defend against cyber crimes. X-Force Exchange users can tap into threat information based on the monitoring of more than 15 billion security events per day; malware threat intelligence from a network of 270 million endpoints; threat information based on over 25 billion web pages and images; deep intelligence on more than eight million spam and phishing attacks; and reputation data on nearly one million malicious IP (Internet Protocol) addresses. The pace of development in this area is so rapid that it will take corporate leaders in the cyber field, working in tandem with, or as well as, security services with special ‘cyber divisions’ to attack the growing use of web-based recruitment and modus operandi. The dependence of billions of people on cyber systems makes cyber war all the more complicated, and all the more imperative. The far reach of ISIS via the Internet is succeeding in radicalising people, especially lone wolves and self-starter groups who are inspired by the organisation, all over the world who are prone to extremism, the next step being their adoption of violence. While cyber terrorism may be the silent recruiter, its deadly results are anything but.
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media alert TURING
MEDIA ALERT FOR October/ November 2016 ISSUE EDITORIAL TOPICS ■ TURING We examine the Link-16 tactical data link, and how it may develop in the future. ■ OPERATIONAL FOCUS: THE UNITED NATIONS IN LEBANON The United Nations peacekeeping operations falls under our spotlight. ■ GLOBAL CORVETTE PROGRAMMES The appeal of Corvettes is growing in navies across the world, and we examine the market. ■ MARITIME SUPPORT HELICOPTERS Helicopters are vital to naval operations and we examine the latest developments in this domain. ■ GEOSPATIAL RECONNAISSANCE Geospatial reconnaissance and what it can offer to military operations falls under our gaze. ■ REMOTE WEAPONS SYSTEMS We look at the remote weapons systems currently available and expected technological innovations. ■ PROGRAMME UPDATE: LITTORAL COMBAT SHIP The ongoing US Navy Littoral Combat Ship programme falls under our spotlight. ■ BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENCE We focus on efforts around the world to counter the menace of ballistic missile proliferation.
august/september 2016. Issue 04.
ARMADA COVER final august.indd 1
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COMPENDIUM SUPPLEMENTS ■ TACTICAL RADIOS Our ever-popular Tactical Radios supplement returns, discussing the latest innovations in this fast moving domain. ■ Special Operations (Land, Air, Sea) We take the temperature of the Special Forces domain, and look at new product innovations. ■ SPECIAL: SNIPER RIFLES POSTER Our exclusive poster depicts the capabilities of the world’s leading sniper rifles. ■ SPECIAL: RADIO OVERVIEW POSTER MAGAZINE CIRCULATION: 25,278 copies (ABC Audited) worldwide BONUS DISTRIBUTION AUSA, Washington, USA (3-5 Oct 2016) Euronaval, France (17-21 Oct 2016) Indo Defence (2-5 Nov 2016) IDEAS Pakistan (22-25 Nov 2016) BOOKING DEADLINES Advertising Order Confirmation…. 13-Sep Advertising Material Due………… 16-Sep
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