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Army - Military - Defense Industry News October 2010
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Version française
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Defense Industry News Krauss-Maffei Wegmann
 

Saturday, 30 October 2010, 15:35 PM

 
Norwegian Army purchases Krauss-maffei Wegmann DINGO 2 wheeled armoured vehicle.
 
 
Munich, 29. October 2010 – The Norwegian Army has responded to the increased threat of attacks by commissioning Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) with the delivery of 20 DINGO 2 heavily armoured wheeled vehicles.

German army Krauss-Maffei Wegmann Dingo 2 wheeled armoured vehicle in Afghanistan
 

The troops operating at the Hindu Kush are in need of the vehicles more than ever; since the beginning of the year, soldiers have been confronted with an increasing number of assaults by insurgents. By the end of November, the first ten vehicles shall be delivered by KMW and transported to the operational area. The remaining vehicles will follow in February 2011.
Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Austria and the Czech Republic also make use of the DINGO 2.

KMW supports Norwegians in the area of operations
The DINGO 2 is operated as a patrol and protection vehicle. Additionally, KMW supports the Norwegian forces with its service teams in Afghanistan. These cover tasks such as maintenance and repairs. The contract includes the delivery of specialised tools, the training of the vehicle crews and the option to purchase further vehicles.

Krauss-Maffei Wegmann GmbH & Co. KG
leads the European market for armoured wheeled and tracked vehicles. At locations in Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, Singapore and the USA, some 3400 employees manufacture and support a product portfolio ranging from air-transportable, heavily armoured wheeled vehicles (MUNGO, AMPV*, DINGO, GFF4 and BOXER*) through reconnaissance, antiaircraft and artillery systems (FENNEK, GEPARD, LeFlaSys*, Armoured Howitzer 2000, AGM and DONAR) to heavy battle tanks (LEOPARD 1 and 2), infantry fighting vehicles (PUMA*) and bridgelaying systems (LEGUAN). In addition, KMW has wide-ranging system competence in the area of civil and military simulation, as well as in command and information systems and remote-controlled weapon stations with reconnaissance and observation equipment for day and night missions. The armed forces of more than 30 nations worldwide rely on the operational systems by KMW.

 

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Defense Industry News Elbit Systems of America
 

Wednesday, 27 October 2010, 17:31 PM

 
Elbit Systems U.S. Subsidiary Awarded $45.5 Million ID/IQ Contract for Night Targeting System Upgrade for AH-1W Cobra Helicopters.
 
 
Haifa, Israel, October 26, 2010 – Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ and TASE: ESLT) announced today that its wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary, Elbit Systems of America, LLC, was awarded a $45.5 million Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract from the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, Crane, Indiana for the supply of the Night Targeting System Upgrade (NTSU) and associated line items for the AH - 1W Cobra helicopters.
 
Work will be performed in Merrimack, New Hampshire and is expected to be completed over the next five years.
The NTSU system builds upon the legacy of the combat-proven Night Targeting System (NTS). The improvements in the optics allow the warfighter a significant increase in ability to detect, recognize, identify and prosecute targets at stand-off ranges in all weather and lighting conditions.
Elbit Systems of America, President and CEO, Raanan Horowitz commented: "Elbit Systems of America is pleased to provide this tactical targeting ability to the U.S. Navy AH-1W team. The NTSU enables extended target acquisition, recognition and engagement ranges and offers a critical and cost effective increase in survivability to the warfighter”.

 

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Defense Industry News Navistar
 

Wednesday, 27 October 2010, 12:47 PM

 
Navistar Defense launched both the International® MaxxPro® ambulance kit and the MaxxPro Tractor at AUSA 2010.
 
 
WASHINGTON, D.C., (October 25, 2010) Navistar Defense, LLC today launched both the International® MaxxPro® ambulance kit and the MaxxPro Tractor variant at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA 2010) Annual Meeting and Exposition.
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Since 2007, the company's family of MaxxPro Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles has grown to include 11 different vehicle variants. The first six of these variants were developed in only 18 months.
"Our ambulance kit, which has received positive reviews from the U.S. Army Medical Department, can quickly turn any MaxxPro vehicle into a fully functioning ambulance and aid station - with full protection for both medics and patients," said Archie Massicotte, president, Navistar Defense. "The kit does not require new vehicles. Thanks to the flexibility of our proven truck platforms, we are able to quickly develop new vehicle solutions as well as vehicle variants like the MaxxPro Tractor."
Ambulance kits include an easy-to-use litter assist system as well as a protected work space benefitting medics and patients. This solution paired with the company's DXM(tm) independent suspension helps medical aid navigate rough terrain to get where it is needed. While the kit is displayed this week on a MaxxPro Dash unit, the solution is available for other variants such as the MaxxPro Base and Plus.

 

International MaxxPro tractor truck Navistar
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Combining a proven truck platform with proven survivability solutions, Navistar today also introduced the MaxxPro Tractor into its MRAP family. This vehicle uses an A kit / B kit armor solution with MRAP-level protection available, to allow two- to three-man crews to carry out support missions. The vehicle is powered by a MaxxForce® D 13L engine.
In addition to the MaxxPro Tractor, Navistar also offers two other MRAP utility variants, the MaxxPro Cargo and the MaxxPro Recovery Vehicle. All three utility vehicles utilize MaxxForce® D engines and heavy duty chassis.
To date, Navistar has been contracted to produce more than 7,500 MaxxPro units as well as retrofit 1,222 units in theater with its DXM(tm) independent suspension solution. MaxxPro vehicles are currently in operation with U.S. forces as well as with six coalition forces.

 

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Defense Industry News Jeep
 

Wednesday, 27 October 2010, 15:27 PM

 
Recent award of a contract for Jeep from the US Tank Automotive Command (TACOM) to supply Jeep J8 Troop Carrier to Uruguayan military contingent in Haiti.
 
 
Jeep® Government and Military Sales announced on October 25, 2010 at the AUSA defense show in Washington, DC, the award of a US Department of State contract under the Global Peace Operations Initiative (GPOI) for a fleet of J8 Troop Carriers for deployment with the Uruguayan contingent to the UN Mission in Haiti.
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Jeep Government and Military Sales (JGMS) announced on the opening day of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Exhibition being held in Washington DC the recent award of a contract from the US Tank Automotive Command (TACOM) for the supply of an undisclosed number of the Jeep J8 Troop Carrier. The contract will be funded from the US Department of State’s Global Peace Operations Initiative. The fleets of vehicles are to be delivered to the Uruguayan military contingent deployed in support of the UN Mission in Haiti. The contract value including spares and in-theatre training is for an undisclosed sum and delivery is to be completed by mid December 2010.
‘This is a very important contract for us’, said Andrew Jankel, Chairman of Jeep Government and Military Sales. ‘It represents a series of ‘firsts’ for JGMS: our first volume sale of our new Troop Carrier; our first sale to the US Government; and the first deployment of the J8 in support of UN operations. These vehicles will be built and supplied from within the United States, so maximizing the benefit to the domestic auto industry. We are immensely proud that this superb vehicle has been selected for such a demanding and high profile role. We hope it represents the first of many similar sales as currently we are in advanced discussions with a number of other military users for similar utility fleet requirements.’
The Jeep J8 is a new American vehicle, evolved from the Wrangler series, but significantly altered by Jeep Engineering and JGMS to create a reliable and highly capable off-road, light utility, platform offering outstanding payload, endurance and performance. The Jeep J8 solution comprises a family of rugged and cost-effective J8 4x4 vehicles optimized for a variety of military and homeland security missions and, as such, is offered as a replacement for light utility fleets in military and government service worldwide. Durable, affordable and easily maintained, the Jeep J8 features enhanced payload and towing capability while offering very high levels of commonality between variants thus facilitating ease of training and logistic support.
The Jeep J8 Troop Carrier is intended to form the backbone of the military light utility fleet and shares all the qualities present in the J8 family of vehicles. Based on the 3-door J8, the Troop Carrier is fitted with a robust tubular rollover protection system integrated onto the vehicle chassis. This permits structural flexing when operating over rough terrain, enhances passenger protection and increases passenger and cargo space. The resulting raised roofline enables the J8 Troop Carrier to seat comfortably the driver, vehicle commander (front passenger) and up to six passengers. With these seats folded or removed, the rear compartment can accommodate a standard NATO pallet or other cargo.

 

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Defense Industry News Elbit Systems of America
 

Wednesday, 27 October 2010, 15:37 PM

 
Elbit Systems of America to Showcase Solutions for Empowerment of Rapid Deployment Forces at AUSA 2010
 
 
FORT WORTH, TX, October 25, 2010 – Elbit Systems of America, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Elbit Systems Ltd. will present an array of cutting edge solutions, designed to enhance the capabilities of rapid deployment forces at the upcoming Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting and Exposition (AUSA), set to take place in the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington DC from October 25-27, 2010.
A video presentation will depict the successful integration of systems from multiple Elbit Systems of America business units, thus empowering rapid deployment forces for even the most complicated battle scenarios. Viewers will experience fully realistic, dynamic operational scenarios. Whether deployed in combat, low intensity conflict or peacekeeping operations, Elbit Systems of America's innovative, practical solutions allow units to operate successfully in complex conflicts and urban environments.
 
The following will be featured in the Elbit Systems of America exhibit:

Bradley Mortar Vehicle and FireCon Mortar Fire Control System-Dismounted
Elbit Systems of America invites you to experience the FireCon Mortar Fire Control System-Dismounted (MFCS-D), mounted on the Bradley Mortar Vehicle, one of the most lethal combat vehicles in the field. The Bradley Mortar Vehicle on display at the Elbit Systems of America booth features immediate, indirect fire support for armored and mechanized battalions and armored cavalry squadrons. It provides enhanced survivability, increased speed and maintainability and improved interconnectivity. Mounted on the Bradley will be the MFCS-D, an Elbit Systems of America solution to a U.S. Army designed fire control system for the 120mm towed mortar. MFCS-D automated digital application delivers a more efficient system for today’s mortar operator by employing faster deployment and improved responsiveness and incorporating key Elbit Systems of America innovative products such as the RPDA-57.

Also on display, Elbit Systems of America ‘Apache Helicopter Mix’:

Showcasing an integrated solution incorporating the IHADSS-21 advanced helmet mounted display system, the Block III Mission Processor and a 6x6 High Resolution AMLCD, all working together to create a complete solution for flight crew situational awareness and enhanced vision capabilities.

 
Integrated Helmet and Display Sight System-21 (IHADSS-21)
Advancing the capabilities of rotor wing pilots, Elbit Systems of America’s IHADSS-21 is a reliable and "value for money" solution for rotor wing aircraft. The IHADSS has the capability and ease of use to ensure mission success and crew safety. This advanced system is currently in production with a solid history of reliability and mission success. With the IHADSS, the crew can be confident in of accurate night vision capabilities.

IHADSS-21 Integrated Helmet and Display Sight System-21

Central Mission Processor/Block III Mission Processor
With up to 25 general purpose processors and four graphics processors, the Mission Processor (MP) is the cornerstone for Block III Apache and provides the basis for implementation of SoSCOE and FCS for the Apache. The Central Mission Processor (CMP) features an open systems architecture with the leverage of commercial, off-the-shelf products that provides Army aviation with a high performance, scalable and maintainable platforms for future applications that require the full performance necessary for next generation computing capabilities. The central mission processor/mission processor architecture is scaleable and suited for multiple platforms, providing advanced general and display processing for current and future needs where SoSCOE and FCS is planned.

6” x 6” High Resolution (Active Matrix Liquid Crystal Display) AMLCD
The 6” x 6” AMLCD display functions as a primary flight display offering the high brightness and contrast, excellent resolution, readability and clarity required in the open configuration of a cockpit. Its outstanding characteristics include 8:1 contrast ratio in full sunlight with a brightness of 240 foot-Lamberts (fL), fully night vision goggles (NGV) compatible for night mode operation. With a display area of 6.17” x 6.17”, the compact AMLCD is designed to conserve valuable space without sacrificing performance. The display offers a very flexible video interface supporting multiple analog and digital video channels and multiple serial data links such as RS-422 and discretes. Low weight, small volume and light construction are major advantages of the display.

STORM Unmanned Aircraft System – Presented by UAS Dynamics
The STORM UAS offers an industry-leading payload capacity. It is designed to meet the dynamic operational environment and expeditionary requirements of the Department of Defense and other potential U.S. government customers. STORM’s flexible design offers multiple launch and recovery methods that can be tailored to the environment and physical constraints common in austere combat outposts. STORM has a single mission endurance of 18 hours with a 30 pound payload, and. has the capability to carry a maximum of 75 pounds of payload to support the needs of the mission. The system’s flexibility increases situational awareness, targeting capability and overall lethality. Key functions such as mission payload operation are automated and blended with standard flight modes to increase mission effectiveness while reducing operator workload and skill level requirements. While most other systems require an air vehicle operator and a mission payload operator, the STORM system only needs one operator while simultaneously increasing overall system effectiveness and operator efficiency.


STORM UAV Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Elbit Systems
 
A family of thermal imaging systems including:

KAT EYE™ MR Surveillance System
The KAT EYE™ system is a high-performance, highly-mobile and easy to emplace Medium Range Day/Night Wireless Surveillance System using a cutting edge day camera and a cooled, highly sensitive 640x480 InSb Focal Plane Array thermal camera with 8X continuous optical zoom. The system is image stabilized and has automatic tracking of targets. The basic system consists of a Base Station and one Remote Station which can be emplaced up to 5 Km away for wireless operation or within 500m for fiber optic operation. A single Base Station can monitor and control up to four (4) Remote Stations. The system can be powered by generator, batteries, solar (supplemental power), or vehicle power.

 
Coral-CR
Featured in the video, the Coral-CR is a high-performance, tripod mounted or hand-held Long Range Day/Night Thermal Imaging System using a cutting edge camera and a cooled, highly sensitive 640x512 InSb Focal Plane Array thermal camera with continuous optical zoom, as well as 4X digital zoom. The Laser Range Finder, digital magnetic compass, and global positioning system allow generation of target coordinates to 10Km. The Coral-CR also supports video out via standard BNC connector.

Coral-CR Long Range Day/Night Thermal Imaging System
 
MARS
Also featured in the video is MARS. Mars is an uncooled hand-held thermal imager with target acquisition capabilities. This lightweight, compact system will be featured in the multimedia video presentation and includes two day cameras – Wide Field of View and Narrow Field of View, as well as an eye-safe LRF, digital magnetic compass, real-time video recorder, real-time target acquisition and target coordinate calculation and image and target data storage memory. The MARS is ideal for use in infantry and special units, security, target acquisition for infantry commanders and perimeter defense and night sight and target acquisition for the future soldier.

MARS uncooled hand-held thermal imager with target acquisition capabilities.
 
Selected high performance computing and communications interoperability solutions and capabilities including:

Tacter® -31D Computer
The Tacter®-31D is the next generation of the Tacter® family of military computers, featuring a tablet configuration. The Tacter®-31D computer provides powerful computing capabilities, high performance 10.4” XGA sun-readable display with LED backlight, smart power management algorithm, a Smart Li-lon battery for long stand-alone operation time, hot-swap (secondary battery) for uninterrupted operation during main battery hot-swap, optional military or commercial embedded GPS and much more. The Tacter®-31D computer’s outstanding versatility and capabilities place it as an excellent candidate to serve all combat echelons in the rapidly evolving world of the new modern digital battlefield.


Tacter®-31D Military computer Elbit Systems
 
RPDA-57
Featured in the video presentation and based the Marvell 520 MHz PXA-270 processor, the RPDA-57 responds to the call for situational awareness applications. The generous 128 MB RAM and 64 or 128 MB Flash Memory provide ample room to run and house many applications in nonvolatile memory, providing protection against data loss due to battery drainage. Available in both wireless and non-wireless configurations, R-PDA’s aluminum construction eliminates many of the reliability concerns associated with handhelds. The waterproof design delivers operability in tough environments never before possible. Optional functionalities can be incorporated into modular “backs”, giving you the flexibility you need to support many tasks with one basic computer and change mission profiles on the move. The Rugged-PDA modular design allows an operator to reconfigure the RPDA-57 hardware and software for a specific mission without changing the basic unit

RPDA-57 Elbit Systems America
 
Integrated auto-routing Radio Communication System (IRCS)
From command posts to front-line soldiers, the Elbit Systems of America Integrated auto-routing Radio Communication System (IRCS) is an advanced military communication system that enables military personnel to directly communicate with one another across one network using multiple platforms. With IRCS, you will have reliable operational coordination, command and control, and an overall complete picture of the operations and events a mile or thousands of miles away. All IRCS management functions can be performed from almost every location, and affect any communication device and element within the system, down to the last radio transceiver. At a touch of a button, all the devices within the IRCS can be adjusted and updated – simultaneously or one by one. IRCS does away with the slow and cumbersome communication chains associated with legacy military networks, providing fast, automatic and direct operational connectivity.
 
Also featured, Elbit Systems of America comprehensive solutions for product and customer support:

Elbit Systems of America provides support solutions for specific customer needs. Easy access to OEM support, fast repair turn-around times and online status reporting, enable our customers to better forecast asset availability and enhances operational availability. Elbit Systems of America realize that our customers deserve a product support structure as stable and reliable as their tactical platforms. The Company provides combat-proven design, development, production, repair, and life-cycle supportability solutions of mission critical systems for U.S. and Allied military tactical platforms. The Company also enhances customer capabilities by managing the repair and overhaul system support, and life cycle support of all of the military electronics systems.

 

 

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Military News
 

Saturday, 23 October 2010, 20:28 PM

 
Indonesia would like to develop its military collaboration with Russia.
 
 
Indonesia would like to develop the military cooperation and technique with Russia, said to RIA Novosti the Indonesian minister of Defense Purnomo Yusgiantoro after the handing-over of three Russian helicopters of Mii-35P transport to the armed forces of the country.
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Russian fighting helicopter Mi-35P
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We will develop the co-operation with Russia in the field of the armaments ", it affirmed at the end of a solemn ceremony which proceeded in suburbs of Jakarta.These three helicopters came to supplement the park of the Russian helicopters available to the Indonesian army. According to the minister, this park currently counts five Mi-35P and six Mi-17V5.

“Our main aim is to train a complete flotilla of SU Aircrafts”, it declared, specifying that “its composition was fixed at 16 planes”.“We have for the moment only ten Su, but when there is 16 of them, that will not be long in exerting an effect of dissuasion on any attacker eager to violate our national sovereignty”, estimated the interlocutor of the agency.

In 2003, Indonesia bought in Russia four fighting aircrafts. In August 2007, the countries concluded a contract from delivery of six other planes. Under the terms of this document, three Su-30MK2 were given to the Indonesian part on February 2nd, 2009 and three SU-27SKM at the end of September 2010.

Last week, the Indonesian vice-minister of Defence, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin stated that its country was studying the offers of delivery of two submarines presented by Russia and South Korea.

 

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Defense Industry News
 

Friday, 22 October 2010, 17:26 PM

 
BAE Systems Improving Soldier Protection Through U.S. Army Vehicle Armor Contract.
 
 
AUSTIN, Texas - BAE Systems has received an $11 million U.S. Army contract to produce bar armor kits that protect soldiers in ground vehicles from rocket-propelled grenade attacks. The company will continue to produce L-ROD® bar armor kits for the U.S. Army TACOM Life Cycle Management Command's RG-31 Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected vehicles.
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Last November, BAE Systems received a $42 million contract for the bar armor kits. This latest award is for 390 kits and field service support outside the U.S.

Developed to provide RPG protection for Hummers and MRAP mine-resistant vehicles, L-ROD bar armor is a lightweight, modular bar-armor system made of an aluminum alloy. L-ROD provides protection against rocket-propelled grenades, or RPGs, with minimum impact to operational capabilities.

L-ROD has become standard equipment on the Army's MRAP Class III Buffalo explosive ordnance disposal vehicles.

"We've delivered more than 2,500 total kits to date, and now, more are on the way," said Neil Piscitelli, L-ROD director for BAE Systems in Austin, Texas. "The L-Rod kits have demonstrated value by helping to protect troops on the battlefield and save lives."

Weighing less than half of comparable steel designs, the low-cost L-ROD system bolts onto the vehicle without welding or cutting and can be repaired easily in the field due to its modular design. BAE Systems manufactures the L-ROD bar armor kits on an automated production line in Austin that opened last year.

L-ROD can also be found on Marine Corps Buffalo vehicles, MRAP Category I and II Cougar MRAPs, as well as the MRAP Category I RG-31. BAE Systems is also working on L-ROD variants for other MRAP-type vehicles as requested, and has provided the kits to NATO allies for use on their vehicles in theater.

 

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Defense Industry News
 

Friday, 22 October 2010, 16:27 PM

 
Force Protection Selects Manufacturing Base for Ocelot light protected vehicle in Australia.
 
 
Force Protection Australasia, a Force Protection, Inc. group company, today announced it had reached agreement with the South Australian Government to manufacture and support its Ocelot vehicle in Adelaide, if it is successful in securing the contract to manufacture up to 1,300 next-generation protected mobility vehicles under the ‘Land 121 Phase 4’ program.
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Chief Executive Officer, Michael Moody, said that following discussions with the State Government and potential suppliers, South Australia offered the most suitable manufacturing base for the Ocelot.

“Since we first met with the Government and potential suppliers in 2009, it has become clear that South Australia can provide the essential ingredients we need to successfully manufacture and support the Ocelot,” Mr Moody said. “This view was confirmed during my recent discussions with Premier Mike Rann.

“The South Australian Government has been very supportive and highly professional in its discussions with us. South Australia’s reputation as Australia’s ‘Defence State’ is well-founded. I certainly believe that with our Ocelot, the strength and capability of Force Protection and our collaboration with South Australia, we will have a compelling offering for the Commonwealth of Australia.”

Force Protection has identified a site within the Edinburgh Parks precinct, in Adelaide’s northern suburbs, as a suitable location for its proposed vehicle manufacturing base.

He said today’s announcement strengthened Force Protection’s commitment to operating in Australia, and looked forward to making further announcements about the company’s plans.

This is a significant step forward in the potential development of the Ocelot in Australia.

It also follows an announcement last month that the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) had selected Force Protection Europe as preferred bidder to supply its Ocelot for the MoD’s urgent operational requirement for the Light Protected Patrol Vehicle program (LPPV).

Mr. Moody concluded, “The Ocelot now has a first class endorsement from the United Kingdom and is ideally suited to the Australian requirement."