1. 슬로바키아 콘스트룩타사, '비아' 신형 155mm 자주포 공개 - 화력
Konstrukta Defence unveils new Bia 155mm self-propelled howitzer
최근 런던에서 개최된 DSEI 2023 행사에서 슬로바키아 콘스트룩타(Konstrukta Defence)사가 '비아(SpGH Bia)' 신형 6x6 155mm 자주포의 프로토타입을 공개했다. '비아'는 -3.5도~75도의 고도(高度) 범위를 지닌 155mm 52구경 주포를 장착했으며, 운용 시 20발의 포탄과 3~5명의 승무원을 운반할 수 있다.주포는 자동사격 시 처음 1분 동안은 분당 5발, 그 후로는 3분에 13발의 포탄을 발사할 수 있고, 수동사격 시에는 분당 2발을 발사할 수 있다. 최대 사거리는 속도향상포탄(VLAP: VeLocity enhanced Artillery Projectile) 사용 시 50km이며, 최소 사거리는 5km이다. 해당 자주포는 '타트라(Tatra T815)' 6x6 차량의 차체에 탑재되어 있고, TV 카메라가 내장된 센서 헤드(Sensor head), 열화상 카메라, 레이저 거리 측정기, 첨단 전자 장비, 진단 장비, 자동 장전 및 발사 기능 등의 첨단 시설들을 지니고 있다. 또한, 사격통제체계(FCS: Fire Control System)를 탑재해 C4I 체계와의 접속 및 디지털 지도를 이용한 작전을 가능케 한다.
2. 밀렘 로보틱스사, '테미스 옵저브' 무인지상차량 공개 - 기동
DSEI 2023: Milrem Robotics showcases THeMIS Observe ISR UGV
2023.09.12
최근 런던에서 개최된 DSEI 2023 행사에서 에스토니아 밀렘 로보틱스(Milrem Robotics)사가 '테미스 옵저브(THeMIS Observe)' 감시 및 정찰(ISR: Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance) 무인지상차량을 공개했다. '테미스' 무인지상차량의 차체를 기반으로 제작된 '테미스 옵저브'는 탈레스(Thales Group)사의 '스콰이어(Squire)' 지상감시레이더, HEVI 옵트로닉스(HEVI Optronics)사의 HeviTrack-S 카메라, 메트라빕 디펜스(Metravib Defence)사의 '메트라빕 펄(Metravib Pearl)' 비전자(Acoustic) 사격 탐지기, 라인메탈(Rheinmetall)사의 'ROSY(Rapid Obscuring System)' 급속 차폐 체계, FN 에르스탈(FN Herstal)사의 '디펜더(deFNder)' 경(輕)원격사격통제체계(LRWS: Light Remote Weapon Station) 등등 첨단 기술의 집약체이다. 해당 차량은 소속된 전술 부대의 대응 속도와 대치 거리를 크게 늘려줄 수 있다.
3. 영국 페링사, '파이오니어' 개발 및 공급 계약 체결 - 기동
Fering to develop military variant of its electric Pioneer with 7000 km range
2023.09.12
영국 페링(Fering)사가 '파이오니어(Pioneer)' 4x4 군용 전기 차량의 개발 및 공급 계약을 체결했다. '파이오니어'는 특정되지 않은 특수 전술 부대와 공동작업으로 개발되며, 길이 5.526m, 폭 2m, 조정 가능한 높이 1.974m~2.354m와 1500kg의 무게를 보유하고 있다. 해당 차량은 1.4m 높이의 물을 건널 수 있고, 0.5m까지의 경사를 오를 수 있으며, 최대 속도는 125km/h, 최대 토크는 600Nm이다. 차체에는 알루미늄 입체 뼈대(Space frame)를 합성물과 직물 외장 패널로 보완해 1500kg의 화물을 운반할 수 있다. 또한, 리튬 티타네이트(Lithium Titanate) 산화물 배터리를 연료로 쓰는 2개의 전기 모터를 사용해 더욱 험한 날씨에서도 버틸 수 있고, 800cc 3기통 바이오디젤 내연기관을 발전기로 탑재해 7000km의 가동 범위를 가능케 한다.
4. 엘빗 시스템즈사, '크로스보우' 신형 자주박격포체계 공개 - 화력
DSEI 2023: Elbit Systems unveils Crossbow next-generation turreted mortar system
2023.09.14
최근 런던에서 개최된 DSEI 2023 행사에서 엘빗 시스템즈(Elbit Systems)사가 '크로스보우' 신형 자주박격포 체계 (Turreted mortar system)를 공개했다. '크로스보우'는 '아이언 스팅(Iron Sting)' 유도 박격포탄과 같은 다양한 포탄을 최대 10km의 사거리까지 발사할 수 있고, 360도 회전축 기능을 지녀 빠른 재장전이 가능하다. 또한, 첫 탄을 전투 시작 30초 내에 발사할 수 있고, 분당 최대 10발, 평시 6발의 발사 속도를 높은 탐지 및 정밀타격(STS: Sensor To Shooter) 능력을 지닌 채로 유지할 수 있다. 해당 체계는 'UT-120m' 터렛에 탑재될 수 있도록 제작되었지만, 6x6 및 8x8 차량, 궤도형 차량, 고정된 설비 등에도 탑재될 수 있으며, 전자화된 사격통제시스템(FCS: Fire Control System)과 지상항법시스템을 지녀 GPS가 제한되는 지역에서도 작전을 수행할 수 있다.
5. 라인메탈사, '라크나로크' 120mm 박격포체계 공개 - 화력
DSEI 2023: Rheinmetall showcases adaptable 120mm Mortar System 'Ragnarok trailer-mounted
최근 런던에서 개최된 DSEI 2023 행사에서 독일 라인메탈(Rheinmetall)사가 '라크나로크(Ragnarok)' 120mm 박격포 체계를 공개했다. '라그나로크'는 차륜 및 궤도형 차량에 모두 탑재 가능한 체계로, 이 높은 융통성은 해당 체계의 최대 장점이다. 이 체계는 다양한 포신을 장착할 수 있으며, 탑재되는 차량에 탄도 계산기가 있다면, 이에 자연스럽게 통합된다. 탄도 계산기가 없을 경우, 해당 체계와 함께 보급이 가능하다. 이 외에도 대부분의 전장관리 시스템(BMS: Battlefield Management System)과 호환이 가능하여, 순조롭게 기존 차량 및 체계에 통합이 가능하다. 반지름은 1275mm밖에 안되어 적은 공간을 차지하며, 무게도 적어 차량에 주는 무리가 적고, 분당 최대 18~20발의 발사속도를 지녀 사격 임무에 강점을 가지고 있다.
6. 영국 제너럴 다이내믹스-UK사, '브림스톤' 미사일 탑재한 'TRX' 무인지상차량 공개 - 화력
DSEI 2023: GDLS–UK presents TRX UGV with Brimstone missile launchers
2023.09.15
최근 런던에서 개최된 DSEI 2023 행사에서 영국 제너럴 다이내믹스-UK(General Dynamics Land Systems-UK)사가 '브림스톤(Brimstone)' 대(對)전차 미사일을 탑재한 'TRX' 중(重)궤도형(Heavy tracked) 무인지상차량을 공개했다. 'TRX'는 각각 4대의 '브림스톤' 미사일을 지닌 발사대를 2대 장착했고, 각각 'FN MAG' 7.62mm 기관총과 'M2 브라우닝' 12.7mm 기관총을 장착한 원격사격통제체계(RWS: Remote Weapon Station) 2대를 탑재했다. 제너럴 다이내믹스사 대변인에 따르면, 해당 무인지상차량을 자사 '에이잭스(Ajax)' 정찰 차량의 호위기(Wingman)로 배치하여, '에이잭스'가 탐지한 위협을 무력화 시키는데 이용할 계획이 추진되고 있다고 한다.
1. Konstrukta Defence unveils new Bia 155mm self-propelled howitzer
At the DSEI 2023 exhibition in London, the Slovakian society Konstrukta Defence unveils the prototype of a new 6x6 155mm self-propelled howitzer named SpGH Bia. This prototype features a fully functional weapon system and has successfully completed initial firing tests. Additional firing trials are scheduled to prepare the SpGH Bia for military testing in a potential customer's country in 2024. Konstrukta Defence is also considering the integration of the SpGH Bia into the Slovak Armed Forces' arsenal.
The SpGH Bia project is an extension of the Zuzana 2 and EVA 155mm self-propelled howitzers development line, initiated in 2021 to meet the requirements of business partners. The project draws on knowledge and experience gained during the deployment of Zuzana in Ukraine and participation in international training exercises involving NATO troops in Latvia.
The primary goal of the SpGH Bia Project is to combine the strengths of the Zuzana 2 and EVA 155mm self-propelled howitzers, resulting in a compact artillery system. This project focuses on meeting the specific requirements of potential users, including ensuring that the 155mm armament meets essential technical criteria like firing range, rate of fire, and ammunition compatibility with 155mm NATO standard ammunition.
Simultaneously, the project aims to improve mobility and cross-country maneuverability while reducing the system's overall weight for enhanced agility. Crew protection is a priority, with efforts aimed at enhancing safety measures. Additionally, the project is implementing automation to streamline combat operations, including a reloading automation system capable of handling projectiles up to a maximum height of 1000 mm.
The prototype of the Bia 6x6 self-propelled howitzer features a 155mm 52 caliber gun with a traverse of approximately 45 degrees. Its elevation range spans from -3.5 degrees to +75 degrees, offering versatile targeting options. In automatic mode, it can achieve a firing rate of 5 rounds in the first minute and sustain a rate of 13 rounds in three minutes. In manual mode, it can manage 2 rounds per minute. The system achieves a maximum firing range of over 50 kilometers with VLAP ammunition, and the minimum firing range is 5.0 kilometers.
The BIA howitzer is equipped with technology for direct fire, including a sensor head with an embedded TV camera, thermal imaging camera, and laser range finder. Advanced electronics equipment, diagnostics, and automation facilitate loading and firing operations. The system also incorporates inertial navigation equipment, a muzzle velocity radar, and GPS capabilities. The onboard Fire Control System (FCS) enables connectivity to C4I systems and facilitates operations with digital maps.
The vehicle can carry up to 20 ready-to-fire projectiles and charges with conveyor beds suitable for various commonly used projectile and charge types. The crew capacity ranges from 3 to 5 members based on operational requirements. The BIA is mounted on a specialized Tatra T815 6 x 6 chassis and is equipped with a Tatra T3C-928.90 V8 engine, delivering 300 kW/402 hp of power, compliant with EURO 3 emissions standards. Its transmission system is an Allison 4500SP 6-speed fully automatic transmission. With dimensions of 11.3 meters in length, 3.3 meters in height, and 2.55 meters in width, it maintains a combat weight of 27 tons. The vehicle can achieve a maximum speed of 90 km/h and possesses an operational range of 600 kilometers.
Currently, the SpGH Bia uses the latest chassis series from the original supplier for Zuzana 2 howitzers. However, Konstrukta-Defence is exploring the possibility of adapting the 155mm weapon system to chassis from other manufacturers in response to requests from potential users, as the BIA system is powered by the engine, utilizing both electric and hydraulic systems.
Specific chassis suppliers remain confidential due to trade secrets, although it is worth noting that one of the manufacturers involved is a purely Slovak company. In alignment with the broader goals of the Bia project, Konstrukta-Defence aims to engage as many Slovak manufacturers as possible, thereby supporting the Slovak defense industry, as some components necessary for the project are actually not produced within Slovakia.
Konstrukta Defence, the successor to Konstrukta Trenčín, National Enterprise, established in 1953, primarily specializes in designing and developing land and air defense weapon systems, ammunition, command and fire control systems, and electronic systems. The company operates its own specialized Testing Facility, accredited to conduct tests and provide services, including firing ranges, a driving polygon, climatic chambers, and other equipment. These facilities offer specialized services for both defense and civil industries.
In recent years, Konstrukta Defence has made significant strides in enhancing its production capabilities, with a particular focus on the core artillery business, including the 155mm 52-caliber self-propelled howitzers family, which includes the Zuzana 2 and EVA 6x6, all equipped with advanced Fire Control Systems designed to align with user requirements for artillery C2 systems integration.
2. DSEI 2023: Milrem Robotics showcases THeMIS Observe ISR UGV
At DSEI 2023 in London, Milrem Robotics is showcasing the so far most versatile Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) unmanned ground system on the market: the THeMIS Observe.
"The THeMIS Observe is an ISR system that significantly increases a tactical unit's reaction speed on targets as well as the stand-off distance from enemy units," explained Cpt (res) Jüri Pajuste, Defence R&D Director at Milrem Robotics. "The system raises the capability and survivability of tactical reconnaissance units considerably," Pajuste said, adding that this type of capability is usually not available for light infantry units on one platform.
The THeMIS Observe consists of cutting-edge technology: the Squire radar by Thales, the HeviTrack-S camera by HEVI Optronics, Metravib Defence Pearl acoustic shot detection, ROSY (Rapid Obscuring System) by Rheinmetall and the deFNder Light remote weapon station. As a recent addition, the vehicle features Sequrests Mobile Multi Camouflage Cover for a significant signature reduction in visual NIR, thermal IR and radar. "The combination of those systems allows units to do multi-sensor identification on one platform while being concealed by adversary observers," Pajuste added.
Additionally, the THeMIS Observe is equipped with Milrem's Intelligent Functions Kit that enables autonomous functions such as follow-me, and waypoint navigation with obstacle detection and avoidance.
The THeMIS UGV, which the ISR system is based on, is a multi-mission unmanned ground system that is currently part of robotics programs in 16 countries, including 8 NATO member countries. The THeMIS is also deployed in Ukraine.
3. Fering to develop military variant of its electric Pioneer with 7000 km range
Fering, a British startup, successfully secured a contract to develop a military version of its electric Pioneer 4x4 vehicle capable of a potential range of 7,000 km. They will be working in collaboration with a specialized tactical unit, the identity of which remains undisclosed. Fering is set to produce prototype models for evaluation before moving on to full-scale production. It is worth noting that these military adaptations will be manufactured alongside the civilian versions.
Designed under the guidance of Ben Scott-Geddes, a former engineer associated with Ferrari and McLaren, the Fering Pioneer boasts compact dimensions, similar to a standard delivery van. It spans 5526 mm in length, and 2,000 mm in width, with an adjustable height ranging from 1974 mm to 2,354 mm.
Looking deeper into its specifications, the Pioneer's construction integrates advanced materials and techniques from the supercar industry, resulting in a dry weight of around 1,500 kg. Its core features an aluminum space frame complemented by composite elements and robust fabric exterior panels, giving it a commendable payload capacity of 1,500 kg.
The Pioneer exhibits impressive off-road capabilities, capable of fording depths of up to 1400 mm, navigating gradients of up to 60%, achieving traverse angles of 50°, and surmounting step climbs of 500 mm.
This electric 4x4 can reach a top speed of 125 km/h and delivers a maximum torque of 600 Nm. It is powered by two electric motors, with lithium titanate oxide cells instead of conventional lithium-ion batteries, designed to withstand challenging weather conditions. Additionally, it incorporates an 800cc 3-cylinder range extender combustion engine, running on biodiesel, serving as an onboard multifuel generator with a 70 kW capacity.
This generator not only powers the motors but also recharges the battery during operation, ensuring optimal performance, especially during demanding tasks like hill climbing. Impressively, this setup grants the Pioneer an extraordinary range of 7,000 km (when equipped with long-range tanks) and the ability to operate silently for up to 80 km. Remarkably, it aims for around 50 mpg even when the batteries are depleted.
One of the Pioneer's standout attributes is its adaptability. It's designed to be easily modified or upgraded to cater to diverse customer needs, accommodating larger batteries or alternative range extenders such as alcohol-fueled engines or fuel cells. Furthermore, the Pioneer is built with longevity in mind, eliminating the need for disposal at the end of its lifecycle. It's engineered for straightforward repair and upgradability, and it features 22.5-inch rims capable of accommodating standard truck tires, ensuring tire availability even in remote locations.
4. DSEI 2023: Elbit Systems unveils Crossbow next-generation turreted mortar system
Elbit Systems' Crossbow, the cutting-edge turreted mortar system, was developed by Elbit Systems' Land division as part of an Israel Defense Force contract, adhering to MIL-STD-810G standards.
The Crossbow system boasts impressive capabilities, such as the ability to launch the initial round in under 30 seconds, achieving a maximum firing rate of 10 rounds per minute, and sustaining a rate of fire of 6 rounds per minute, all with minimal delay in sensor-to-shooter coordination. Furthermore, it supports a diverse range of munitions, including the Iron Sting guided mortar munition, delivering an effective range of up to 10 kilometers. Loading the Crossbow turret is seamless, as it does not require indexing, and it features a 360-degree infinite pivot capability.
Designed to be seamlessly integrated into UT-120m turrets, the Crossbow system can be adapted for use on 6X6 and 8X8 platforms, tracked vehicles, and stationary installations. This versatility ensures full compatibility with existing NATO ammunition standards. The Crossbow is equipped with an advanced computerized fire control system and a land navigation system, enabling operation even in GPS-denied environments.
Yehuda (Udi) Vered, General Manager of Elbit Systems Land, said: "The Crossbow represents the latest and most significant addition to our portfolio of automated turret systems. It stands as the sole automated turret system available in the market, delivering high-performance, precision firepower. We take pride in offering our customers the most advanced platforms available today."
5. DSEI 2023: Rheinmetall showcases adaptable 120mm Mortar System 'Ragnarok trailer-mounted
Rheinmetall, a global leader in defense technology, is currently presenting its advanced 120mm mortar system, named Ragnarok, at the Defense and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2023. The exhibit highlights Ragnarok's adaptability for integration into both wheeled and tracked combat vehicles, with a towed version mounted on a trailer on display.
Ragnarok builds upon the success of the MWS81, an 81mm mortar system delivered to the armed forces in 2017. Ragnarok is designed to offer a wide range of applications, making it a versatile asset. One of Ragnarok's notable features is its high adaptability. It can be equipped with various barrels, either supplied by the customer or provided by Rheinmetall. Additionally, for systems with existing ballistic computers, Ragnarok seamlessly integrates with these systems. Alternatively, it can be supplied with its ballistic computation capabilities, simplifying the transition for those looking to upgrade their mortar capabilities. This adaptability is further complemented by Ragnarok's compatibility with most Battlefield Management System (BMS) solutions available on the market, ensuring a smooth transition and minimal disruption to existing solutions and networks.
Despite its impressive capabilities, Ragnarok maintains a compact form factor. With a diameter of only 1,275mm, it occupies minimal space when integrated into various military vehicle platforms. Its lightweight design minimizes the force exerted on the vehicle platform, eliminating the need for additional support legs or similar solutions for most platforms. This compact size allows ample room for the crew and ammunition storage, ensuring both operational efficiency and flexibility.
Ragnarok's core design principle revolves around a manually loaded mortar, facilitating a maximum rate of fire and, consequently, a substantial impact on the target. When integrated into a combat vehicle, the loading process is conducted from an integrated loader's platform, ensuring ergonomic loading sequences that meet peacetime requirements. Ragnarok boasts an impressive maximum rate of fire of 18 to 20 rounds per minute, surpassing automatic loading systems currently available on the market. This rapid-fire capability enables the crew to complete a four-round mission from receiving the fire mission to firing the last round in less than one minute. Furthermore, the system's minimal moving mechanical parts enhance its performance and reliability, even in challenging weather conditions such as snow, ice, and sand.
6. DSEI 2023: GDLS–UK presents TRX UGV with Brimstone missile launchers
General Dynamics Land Systems–UK (GDLS–UK) displayed a TRX heavy tracked unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) with Brimstone missile launchers at the DSEI 2023 defence exhibition held in London on 12–15 September. The UGV has two pods with four MBDA Brimstone missiles each and two remotely operated weapon stations, one with a MAG 7.62 mm machine gun and the other with an M2 12.7 mm machine gun.
A GDLS–UK representative told Janes that his company had proposed a concept of operations to deploy an Ajax reconnaissance variant with one or more TRX wingmen with anti-tank guided missiles on its flanks that could target threats identified by the Ajax.
GDLS developed the TRX for the US Robotic Combat Vehicle-Medium competition, but GDLS–UK sees the integration of mission fits as where the UK branch of the company can really add value and UK intellectual property for the British Army. This includes intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR), lethality, battlefield engineering, direct fire and loitering munition mission packages, as well as autonomy, communications systems, and human-machine teaming applications to make an integrated system, for example the Ajax wingman.
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