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Boeing AH-6
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Little Bird MH-6X MELB / AH-6I |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| A Boeing AH-6 on static display at the 2010 Singapore Airshow | |
| Role | Light attack/reconnaissance helicopter |
| National origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Boeing Rotorcraft Systems |
| First flight | ULB: September 8, 2004 MELB: September 20, 2006 |
| Status | Under development |
| Developed from | MD Helicopters MH-6 Little Bird |
Contents
[hide]Design and development
The Unmanned Little Bird demonstrator, which Boeing built from a civilian MD 530F, first flew on September 8, 2004, and made its first autonomous flight (with safety pilot) on October 16, 2004.[1]In April 2006, Boeing used the ULB to demonstrate the ability of another helicopter, in this case an AH-64 Apache to remotely control the ULB's weapons payload as a part of Boeing's Airborne Manned/Unmanned System Technology Demonstration (AMUST-D) program. For the initial test, the Apache Longbow was on the ground, while the ULB was airborne several miles away and Hellfire missiles were fired from the ULB by a tester sitting at the co-pilot's station in the Apache. Both aircraft are equipped with tactical common data link equipment and technologies manufactured by L-3 Communications.[2]
The ULB Demonstrator first flew in the unmanned mode on June 30, 2006 from the United States Army's Yuma Proving Ground, flying a pre-programmed 20-minute armed intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission around the facility. All previous flights during the 450 flight hour engineering development phase had a safety pilot on board, although the aircraft was typically flown remotely from the ground.[3][4]
With the successes of the ULB, Boeing incorporated its technologies into an A/MH-6, designating it the A/MH-6X. On September 20, 2006, the first A/MH-6X lifted off on its maiden flight from Boeing Rotorcraft Systems' Mesa, Arizona facility with a pilot on board. While the ULB Demonstrator had a payload of 2,400 pounds, the MELB has an additional 1,000 pounds payload capacity. The A/MH-6X is similar to the A/MH-6M, but includes a prototype glass cockpit and a number of upgrades to the electronics and avionics.[5] The A/MH-6X is an optionally manned or unmanned aircraft which is a hybrid of the ULB demonstrator and the A/MH-6M mission-enhanced Little Bird which is used by US Army Special Operations Command.[6]
Boeing funded the development program itself; it intends to market the aircraft for both military and homeland security roles within the U.S. and internationally.[5] The aircraft is estimated to cost US$2 million.[4] The systems related to the unmanned flight capabilities have also been designed to be able to be installed in any other helicopter as well, including the Apache.[4][5] An Unmanned Little Bird performed a fully autonomous flight in June 2010, including avoiding obstacles using LIDAR.[7][8]
In 2009, it was reported that Boeing was working on the "AH-6S Phoenix" for the US Army's restarted ARH program, named Armed Aerial Scout. The AH-6S design is stretched by 15 inches (380 mm) to allow room for other ARH crew shot down in combat to be recovered. The aircraft also would feature an extended aerodynamic nose to house avionics hardware. AH-6S cockpit and main rotor composite blades are to be based the AH-64D Block III. The AH-6S will have an improved tail rotor and a more powerful Rolls-Royce 250-CE30 engine.[9][10] The Little Bird has an endurance of 12 hours and carries a maximum mission payload of 2,400 lb (1,090 kg).[11]
The AH-6i is the export version of the AH-6S. The AH-6i first flew on September 16, 2009.[12] Jordan has expressed interest in ordering the AH-6i in May 2010.[13] In October 2010 Saudi Arabia requested 36 AH-6i aircraft with related equipment and weapons from the United States through a Foreign Military Sale.[14][15] Kaman Corporation is developing a retrofittable graphite epoxy rotorblade for the AH-6.[16]
In summer 2011, an H-6U performed autonomous landings on a moving truck bed for French companies Thales and DCNS for France's General Directorate for Armament, in preparation for sea trials on a French frigate in 2012.[17][18]
In October 2012, the AH-6i completed a flight demonstration for the U.S. Army in anticipation of the Armed Aerial Scout program. While the AH-6i is aimed at international customers, Boeing intends to offer it for the program.[19] The Army ended the AAS program in late 2013.[20]
In December 2012, Boeing demonstrated the Unmanned Little Bird version of the AH-6 to the South Korean Army. The aircraft flew autonomously for 25 minutes to demonstrate the unmanned system's capabilities that can be integrated into Army MD 500 Defender helicopters.[21]
In September 2013, Aurora Flight Sciences and Boeing offered the H-6U Little Bird for the U.S. Marine Corps unmanned lift/ISR capability competition. Boeing, working as a subcontractor, is flying the Little Bird without human input near Manassas, Virginia, but with a pilot on board to comply with Federal Aviation Administration regulations. The H-6U is competing against the unmanned Kaman K-MAX, which has a usable external payload of 6,000 lb (2,720 kg) and has been used in theater to resupply Marines. Evaluations were to begin in February 2014 at Marine Corps Base Quantico.[22]
Marines at Quantico successfully landed an unmanned Little Bird, as well as a K-MAX, autonomously using an Ipad-like mini-tablet. The helicopters were equipped with technology called the Autonomous Aerial Cargo/Utility System (AACUS), which combines advanced algorithms with LIDAR and electro-optical/infrared sensors to enable a person holding a tablet to select a point to land the helicopter at an unprepared landing site. Autonomous landing without the need for remote control or tele-operation reduces operator burden and allows them be resupplied or conduct other missions like medical evacuation around the clock. The AACUS weighs 100 lb (45 kg), so it can be easily integrated onto other aircraft like the CH-53E Super Stallion and V-22 Osprey. Operational use of the system could be possible within two years.[23]
Variants
- Unmanned Little Bird (ULB)
- UAV demonstrator
- A/MH-6X Mission Enhanced Little Bird (MELB)
- AH-6I
- Version of the AH-6S for export.
- AH-6S Phoenix
- Proposed version of the AH-6 for the US Army's Armed Aerial Scout program.[9]
Operators
- Saudi Arabian Army (36 on order)[25][26]
Specifications
ULB/MD530F
A fully loaded Boeing AH-6 Little Bird
- Crew: 1-2
- Capacity: 5 total
- Length: 32 ft 7 in (9.94 m)
- Rotor diameter: 27 ft 4 in (8.33 m)
- Height: 8 ft 9 in (2.48 m)
- Disc area: 587.5 sq ft (54.6 m²)
- Empty weight: 1,591 lb (722 kg)
- Max. takeoff weight: 3,100 lb (1,610 kg)
- Powerplant: 1 × One Allison 250-C30 250-C30 turboshaft, 425 shp (317 kW) takeoff power (derated)
- Maximum speed: 152 knots (175 mph, 282 km/h)
- Cruise speed: 135 kn (155 mph, 250 km/h)
- Range: 232 nmi (267 mi, 430 km)
- Service ceiling: 18,700 ft (5,700 m)
- Rate of climb: 2,070 ft/min (10.5 m/s)
- Guns:
- 1× 30 mm (1.18 in) M230 Chain Gun; or
- 2× 12.7 mm (.50 cal) GAU-19; or
- 2× 7.62 mm (0.30 in) M134 Minigun
- Rockets:
- 2× LAU-68D/A 7-tubes rocket pods firing 2.75 in (70 mm) Hydra 70 rocket projectiles
- Missiles:
- Anti-tank guided missile: 2× AGM-114 Hellfire
- Anti-air missile: 2× FIM-92 Stinger for self-defense
See also
- Related development
- Hughes OH-6 Cayuse
- MD Helicopters MD 500
- McDonnell Douglas MD 500 Defender
- MD Helicopters MH-6 Little Bird
- Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
Combat Vehicle 90, K21, Bionix AFV ,ZBD-97, TAM infantry fighting vehicle
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Combat Vehicle 90 | |
|---|---|
A Strf9040A in Swedish service
|
|
| Type | Infantry fighting vehicle |
| Place of origin | Sweden |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1993–present |
| Used by | See Operators |
| Wars | War in Afghanistan United Nations Mission in Liberia |
| Production history | |
| Designer | Hägglunds/Bofors |
| Manufacturer | BAE Systems AB |
| Number built | Over 1,000 |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 23–35 tonnes (Mk0 to MkIII) |
| Length | 6.55 m |
| Width | 3.1 m |
| Height | 2.7 m |
| Crew | 3 (commander, gunner, driver) 8 troopers |
Main
armament |
40mm Bofors Autocannon, 30mm Bushmaster Cannon (export model MkI & MkII) 35mm/50 Bushmaster Cannon (export model MkIII) |
Secondary
armament |
7.62 mm Ksp m/39 machine gun 6× 76 mm grenade launchers |
| Engine | Scania DSI 14 litres or DSI 16, V8 Diesel 550–810 hp (410–595 kW) 2,300 Nm |
| Power/weight | 24.1 hp/tonne |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Suspension | torsion bar |
Operational
range |
320 km |
| Speed | 70 km/h |
Contents
History
During the Cold War, in 1983, the Swedish Army desired vehicles with high mobility, air defence and anti-tank capability, high survivability and protection. The project group "Stridsfordon 90" was formed by representatives from Försvarmakten, Försvarets Materielverk and Swedish industry including Hägglunds and Bofors, which in 1985 finalize the draft for a "unity-vehicle" following the concept from the airforce. In 1986 the prototypes for Strf 9040 and Strf 9025 were ordered. Five prototypes were constructed, but before delivery in 1988 the 9025-version was discontinued. These prototypes were tested during extensive trials for three years between 1988 to 1991, during which the prototypes for specialized variants (FOV, C&C and ARV) were ordered.[1] The first deliveries started in 1994, and as of 2002 over 1,000 CV90s have been delivered worldwide.[2]Design
Various customer requirements have led to several generations of CV90, where the major differences are survivability and the electronic architecture. Higher protection has led to higher kerb weight; the vehicle's combat weight has risen from 23 to 35 tonnes. However, with increasingly more powerful diesel engines, the power-to-weight ratio has remained approximately the same. The track suspension system has seen upgrades in several stages. The Mk III version has a digital electronic architecture with several different CAN-buses and digital networks, and is the first IFV to boast an automatic Defensive Aid Suite (DAS), which classifies threats and, in automatic mode, can fire smoke and/or the main gun in suitable directions as well as instruct the driver. At the Eurosatory 2010 exhibition, a version called Armadillo[3] was presented. The Armadillo shown was an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) version, which shows how flexible the original platform is—with a bolted roof, several other roles (like ambulance, control vehicle or other turreted versions) are easy to create.Protection
The basic armour of the CV9040 provides all-round protection against 14.5 mm armour-piercing rounds. Armour protection over the frontal arc is classified, but all models from CV9040B and later are said to be protected against 30 mm APFSDS. Some variants, including the CV9030N, can be fitted with MEXAS, a ceramic appliqué armor which provides all-round[citation needed] protection against 30 mm APFSDS. This armour kit is intended to provide increased protection against Improvised explosive device, explosively formed penetrator and 30 mm caliber armour piercing rounds.[4] All CV90s are fitted with a Kevlar spall suppression liner, which covers the interior spaces and provides protection for the troops inside against shrapnel and anti-personnel artillery munition.The CV90 can be also fitted with cage armour, which provides protection against tandem-charge and shaped charge warheads. The CV90 is fitted with a nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) filtration system accompanied with a chemical detector and radiation detector systems. The CV90 also use heat-absorbing filters to provide temporary protection against thermal imaging (TIS), image intensifier and infrared camera (IR). The CV 90 was designed to produce a very low and very compact structure to minimize radar and IR-signatures.
With every generation of CV90 there has been an increase in payload and corresponding protection levels. The inherent mine protection levels have risen substantially to presently defeat the heaviest (10 kg TNT) anti-tank mines.[3]
Mobility
The CV90 Mk0 is powered by a DSI14 engine developed by Scania, which provides 550 horse power (HP) and it can reach speeds of 70 kilometers per hour. The basic CV90 has a maximum road range of 320 kilometers, but the latest generation can reach up to 600 kilometers.[5][6] The CV90 offers quieter movement for improved stealth, greater speed over good terrain, and higher ground clearance for protection against mines and improvised explosive devices.BAE Systems is considering upgrading the CV90 with a hybrid-electric propulsion system as armies look to cut fuel expenses, due to environmental issues and fuel economy. A hybrid-electric drive could cut fuel consumption by 10 to 30 percent. The new system would also provide a power boost to move the vehicle. The hybrid-electric combines a standard diesel engine with a battery pack to provide extra power to propel the vehicle or provide additional electricity.[7]
Armament
The basic CV90 is fitted with a two-man turret, armed with a Bofors 40 mm caliber gun and a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun. The CV90 also carries six 76-mm grenade launchers, which are arranged in two clusters of three launchers; the clusters are positioned on each side of the turret. The grenade launchers are intended for smoke grenades, but can also be loaded with a variety of combat grenades.Sight
The CV90 is equipped with a UTAAS (Universal Tank and Anti-Aircraft Sight) from Saab. Daytime optical, Thermal Imaging System (TIS) and Generation III Image Intensification (II).Production
Production of the CV 90 began in 1993, and over 1,000 vehicles have been ordered. In November 2000, Finland ordered 57 CV9030 vehicles.[8] Total cost was €250 million (in 2008 euros), or €4.42 million per vehicle.[9] In June 2004, Finland made another purchase, bringing the overall quantity ordered to 102.[10] This time the cost was €2.92 million (in 2008 euros) per vehicle.[10] In December 2005, Denmark ordered 45 CV9035 vehicles for a cost of €188 million or €4.18 million per vehicle.[11] The Netherlands ordered 184 combat plus 8 instruction CV9035 vehicles for a cost of €749 million.[12]Research
Hägglunds (now BAE Systems AB) demonstrated in 2011 a version with an infrared camouflage called Adaptiv consisting of thermoelectric plates, capable of posing as many different objects such as ordinary cars, stones, trees etc. to an enemy IR-viewfinder. It takes 1,500 plates to cover a CV90, at a cost of $100 per plate.[13]Variants
Domestic
Developed by Hägglund/Bofors in cooperation with FOI, FOA and FMV for Försvarsmakten as part of the Stridsfordon 90 (Strf 90)-family.[14] Sweden originally planned for a mix of CV9040 and CV9025, tests of the 25 mm turret being carried out on an Ikv 91 chassis, but finally decided on the 40 mm version, due to the much higher versatility of the larger calibre.[15]- Stridsfordon (Strf) 9040 (SB1A3): The original model carries eight soldiers and is equipped with a 40 mm Bofors autocannon. From November 1997, the gun was gyro-stabilized.[14]
- Strf 9040 : Original production version with no gun stabilization saw incremental improvements during production all have been upgraded to Strf9040A
- Strf 9040A: SB1A3 updated with extensive chassis modifications simplistic gun stabilisation. More storage and better emergency exits reduces the seats to seven in the troop compartment.
- Strf 9040B: 9040A updated with new fire control software, electric firing pin fully stabilized gun and improved suspension for better accuracy while moving. Also sports a reserve sight with video camera for the gunner, new instrumentation and new seatbelts.
- Strf 9040B1: Strf9040 modified for international missions (peacekeeping) has 3P ammunition programmer climate control and Anti-Spall Liner[16]
- Strf 9040C: Version for crew training and International Operations. As per 9040B with additional all-round armour, laser filtering in all periscopes and tropical grade air conditioning. Due to the bulk and weight of the modifications, only six soldiers can be carried.[14]
CV9040 AAV
- Luftvärnskanonvagn (lvkv) 9040: Anti-Air Vehicle, fitted with PS-95 radar from Thomson CSF Harfang (now Thales Group) and a high elevation 40 mm autocannon capable of using programmable ammunition. Also connected to the national air defence net LuLIS. Three have been upgraded to Caesar-standard.[17] There is also a demonstrator designated Lvkv 90-TD fitted with infrared video targeting and fully stabilized gun for firing on the move.[18]
- Stridsledningspansarbandvagn (Stripbv) 90, (Eng. Forward Command Vehicle): Used by battalion and brigade commander for command & control. Two upgraded to Caesar-standard, but all have been decommissioned as of 2011.[17]
- Eldledningspansarbandvagn (Epbv) 90, (Eng. Forward Observation Vehicle): For directing artillery and mortar fire, more advanced IR sensor fitted; eight have been upgraded to Caesar-standard.[17]
- Bärgningsbandvagn (Bgbv) 90, (Eng. Armored Recovery Vehicle). Two 9-tonne winches provides a maximum capacity of 72 tonnes through 4-way pulleys; three have been upgraded to Caesar-standard.[17]
- Störpansarbandvagn (Störpbv) 90, (Eng. Electronic Warfare Vehicle). A 9040A had its turret replaced with a fixed housing containing retractable mast and a LEMUR weapons station. Planned in 2002, a single unit was produced before the poor economy cancelled serial production and as of 2013 the project is still on ice.[14]
- Stridsfordon 9040/56: Prototype version of the CV 9040 equipped with the Bofors RB56 anti-tank missile. Issues with the sight alignment were unsolved and no units ordered.[14]
- *Granatkastarpansarbandvagn (Grkpbv) 90120:, (Eng. Tracked armoured mortar vehicle). A CV 90 fitted with the Advanced Mortar System, a project between Hägglunds and Patria. Now cancelled, the mortar system is offered on Patria and Armadillo respectively.[14]
Export versions
Finnish CV9030FIN
- CV9030: Export version with a 30 mm Bushmaster II autocannon. Adopted by Norway, Switzerland and Finland. Within BAE Systems Hägglunds, the Norwegian CV9030N are generally known as the CV90 Mk I while the more advanced Finnish CV9030FIN and Swiss CV9030CH vehicles are known as the CV90 MK II.[19] The CV90 MK II is also available as CV9030 COM – Command & Control Vehicle.
- CV9035: Armed with a Bushmaster III 35/50 cannon. Adopted by the Netherlands as CV9035NL and Denmark as CV9035DK. Within BAE Systems Hägglunds, CV9035 is known as the CV90 MK III.[19]
- CV90105: Light tank equipped with 105 mm rifled tank gun/turret. Designed by Hägglunds (BAE Systems) and GIAT (Nexter).
- CV90120-T: Light tank equipped with tank turret and smoothbore 120 mm gun. (RUAG 120 mm Compact Tank Gun)
- Armadillo: Armoured Personnel Carrier version built on a modular CV90 Mk III chassis
Combat service
Swedish CV9040C on training exercises
Since the production begun in 1993, the CV90 had remained untested in live combat until November 2007, when Norwegian Army CV90s from 2nd Battalion saw heavy combat during Operation Harekate Yolo in Afghanistan. During the first week of November, Norwegian ISAF forces from 2nd Battalion and Kystjegerkommandoen based in Mazar-e-Sharif, responded to a Taliban attack on Afghan National Army forces in the Ghowrmach district. Having been heavily outnumbered by the Taliban forces, the Norwegians used mortars and, in particular, CV90s, to effectively beat down the attack. The operation left an unknown number of Taliban casualties, but Norwegian news sources say as many as 45 to 65 Taliban fighters may have been killed, and many more wounded.[22]
Norwegian CV9030 during a patrol in Afghanistan.
In February 2010, Denmark sent ten CV9035DK's to Afghanistan in order to bolster their contingent in Helmand Province. The Danish contingent had suffered numerous casualties since they began operations in the province in the autumn of 2006. The vehicles are from the Danish Royal Lifeguard Regiment, based in the Northern part of Seeland. They are working alongside MOWAG Piranha IIIC, MOWAG Eagle IV, M113 G3DK and Leopard 2A5DK vehicles, all contributed by Denmark, in the Helmand Province. By April 2010, two of the ten vehicles had been hit with IEDs, in both cases protecting the crew and passengers from personal injury.[25] The vehicles lost two wheels and tracks, and were sent back to the manufacturer in Sweden for further investigation. On 7 August 2010, a CV9035DK hit an IED in Afghanistan, killing two soldiers and wounding another three. The explosion was so powerful that the vehicle was turned over.[26]
As of the spring of 2011, Sweden operates nine Strf 9040Cs in Afghanistan. Swedish CV90s have seen combat with insurgents on dozens of occasions.[citation needed]
Operators
Denmark: 45 CV9035DK.[27] 10 are upgraded to international operations.
Estonia: 44 CV9035NL purchased from the Netherlands in December 2014. Will be delivered in 2016.[28]
Finland: 102 CV9030FIN (57 first batch, 45 second batch).[29][30]
Netherlands: 193 CV9035NL (Initial order of 184 vehicles[31] raised to 193).[32] Deliveries completed in 2011. In December 2014, 44 CV9035NL were sold to Estonia.[28]
Norway:
103 CV9030N. 17 of these have been upgraded with air-condition,
additional mine protection and rear-view cameras, and are designated CV9030NF1.[33][34] In April 2012, the Norwegian Government proposed to upgrade all CV90s in the Norwegian Army's inventory, as well as buying further vehicles. In June 2012, a deal was signed with BAE Systems Hägglunds and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace
for the acquisition of 144 new/upgraded vehicles, including 74 infantry
fighting, 21 reconnaissance, 15 command, 16 engineering, 16 multi-role
and two driver training vehicles.[35][36]
Switzerland: 186 CV9030CH[34]
Sweden: 509 vehicles, including 42 CV9040C with additional armour.[37][38][39]
Evaluation operators
Canada: 1 CV9035 Mark III [40] A combination of budget cuts and upgrades to the existing fleet of LAV IIIs have led the Canadian Army to cancel the procurement of light combat vehicles, where BAE Systems Hägglunds was offering its CV90.[41]- Denmark: in a competition where CV90 Armadillo is included
United Kingdom: Competing with Scout SV as part of Future Rapid Effect System.
Poland CV90120T on trials in 2007
United States[42]
K21
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
History
Development began in 1999. A $77 million contract was awarded to Doosan DST for the NIFV prototype in 2003. Three prototype vehicles were delivered to the ROK Army in 2005. A contract for the first batch of K21 vehicles was signed in October 2008 worth $386.7 million. Production began in November 2009 after a ten-year development period. K21s will be deployed from 2013 through 2016.Design
Construction
The K21 KNIFV's chassis is constructed entirely out of fiberglass, reducing the weight of the vehicle and enabling it to travel at higher speeds without bulky and powerful engines. The NIFV is to be lighter than other IFVs, including the American Bradley series, increasing both speed and payload.The design was finally deemed production-ready in 2009, following 10 years in development and a research budget expenditure of approximately USD $80m. More than 85% of the vehicle's design is domestic. However a redesign is in order following the sinking of two vehicles while engaged in amphibious operations, a board of inquiry found that the problem was a lack of buoyancy, a malfunctioning wave plate and a technical problem with the drain pump, all of which will be corrected for in the new design.
Armaments
The two-man turret on the K21 is armed with an S&T Dynamics K40 40 mm cannon[1] capable of firing APFSDS, high-explosive, smoke and multipurpose munitions, and a 7.62 mm machine gun. This is combined with an advanced fire-control system and gun stabilizer usually found on third-generation main battle tanks that makes the K21, together with the German Puma, able to move and engage the targets with high degree of accuracy at the same time. The ammunition for the autocannon is stored under the turret.The 40 mm cannon can fire up to 300 rounds per minute, with a projectile velocity of up to 1,005 m/s. The improved APFSDS rounds fired from it is able to penetrate up to 160–220 mm of armor, slightly higher than other APFSDS rounds, due to the self-sharpening process as the round penetrates the armour.
The multipurpose munition (한글: 복합기능탄) has several modes including proximity, air burst, armour-piercing and fragmentation. The mode is configured by the K21's FCS, which then transmits the necessary data to a small programmable fuse system inside the round before it is fired. This allows more control over the trajectory and impact of the round, expanding the scope of possible targets from medium armored vehicles to aircraft and infantry personnel.
Anti-tank armament includes an indigenous 3rd-generation ATGM, with performance similar to the Israeli Spike and armour penetration from 700 mm to 1,000 mm of RHA base.
Diving juniper training
Sensors
The fire-control system is able to spot and track targets as far away as 6,000 meters away and identify them from up to 3,000 meters away. IFF sensors are also present. The vehicle also has hunter-killer capabilities with its separate commander's sight (IFV Commander's Panoramic Sight or ICPS) and gunner's sight (IFV Gunner's Primary Sight or IGPS), which can detect both ground and aerial targets. The sights are designed by Samsung Thales.The gunner's sight is equipped with a third generation thermal viewer and a 1.54 μm laser range-finder. It can detect targets from 6,000 meters away and identify them from 3,000 meters away. The commander's sight is equipped with the same system as the gunner's. This allows the gunner to use the commander's sight to engage targets if his own sight is disabled or destroyed. The commander of the vehicle also has the ability to override the command to take control of the turret and gun from the gunner.
Armour
Although not much is known about the composition of the K21's armour, the frontal armour of the vehicle is specifically designed to protect against large caliber automatic cannon rounds, primarily the 30 mm APDS munitions (30x165mm) for 2A72 automatic cannon used on BMP-3, which has approximately 50 mm armour penetration at ranges of 1,000 m. The side armour is designed to protect against 14.5 mm AP rounds, which has approximately 25 mm armour penetration at ranges of 1,000 m. The top can withstand fragments from 152 mm artillery shells exploding as close as 10 meters. Speculations have been made and it is assumed that the KNIFV has multiple layer armour (with S-2 glass fiber and ceramic complex) including lightweight aluminium alloy.The vehicle has a soft self-sealing fuel tank that can absorb the impact of a projectile. There is also an automatic fire suppression system inside the vehicle to extinguish any internal fires that might erupt.
The K21 PIP will include an active protection suite and hard-kill anti-missile system similar to the AWiSS that will also be utilized for the K2 PIP. This will increase the vehicle's ability to defend itself against various ATGMs.
Troop deployment
The K21 is able to carry a total of 9 passengers and 3 more vehicle crew members. With the Battle Management System, the vehicle crew and passengers inside the vehicle can be instantly notified about the environment around them, improving their situational awareness. A 15-inch screen is installed inside the passenger compartment, which provides various data from the BMS. The vehicle is mounted with an external CCD camera, and the passengers inside can survey the environment using the same screen.Mobility
The K21 is equipped with Doosan D2840LXE V-10 diesel engine, equipped with a turbocharger. The vehicle itself is approximately 25 tonnes which, combined with the total output of the engine, gives it a power/weight ratio of approximately 27 hp/t. The K21 PIP will feature an improved version of the engine that will give the vehicle an increased power of 840 hp.A newly developed semi-active ISU, or In-arm Suspension Unit, is available for the K21. The same unit is to be used on the K2 Black Panther. Despite having the same ISU used on the K2 Black Panther, the K21 cannot change its posture.
The vehicle can travel on both land and water. "Pontoon System" gives more buoyancy to float on water when additional weight is put on to the vehicle.
Bionix AFV
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Bionix Infantry Fighting Vehicle | |
|---|---|
Bionix II IFV at the 2008 Singapore Airshow.
|
|
| Type | Infantry fighting vehicle |
| Place of origin | Singapore |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1997 - present |
| Used by | See Operators |
| Production history | |
| Designer | ST Kinetics |
| Designed | 1988 |
| Manufacturer | ST Kinetics |
| Produced | 1996 - present |
| Variants | See Production models[1] |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | Combat weight: 23 tonnes (25 short tons; 23 long tons) |
| Length | 5.9 metres (19 ft 4 in) |
| Width | 2.7 m (8 ft 10 in) |
| Height | 2.6 m (8 ft 6 in) |
| Crew | 3 (Commander, Gunner, Driver) plus 7 combat troops (2 men turret version) 9 combat troops (40/50 version) |
| Armor | MEXAS-M |
Main
armament |
Bionix 25: M242 Bushmaster 25 mm Cannon Bionix II: Bushmaster II 30 mm Cannon |
Secondary
armament |
7.62 mm Commander's Coaxial MG 7.62mm Coaxial MG 7.62mm Trooper Compartment Side Mounted GMPG |
| Engine | Detroit Diesel Corporation (DDC) 6V 92TA 475 horsepower (354 kW) 550 hp (410 kW) with Turbo-charge |
| Power/weight | 20 hp/tonne |
| Suspension | Hydropneumatic suspension |
Operational
range |
400 km (250 mi) |
| Speed | 70 km/h (43 mph) |
Aside from domestic use, ST Kinetics has been marketing the Bionix to countries that wish to retire their old M113s from front-line service.[4]
Contents
Production History and Development
Along with the growth and development of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) during the mid 1980s came a need to bolster (and eventually replace) the existing fleet of M113 Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs). This prompted the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) to source for a fleet of armored vehicles to operate in tandem with the current fleet of AMX-13 SM1 light tanks.With the participation of the SAF, the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), MINDEF's systems acquisition house, was appointed to conduct a technology study and recommend the direction for the project. A market survey was conducted in which various armored vehicles including the Warrior Tracked Armoured Vehicle, the M2/M3 Bradley Fighting Vehicle, and the Schützenpanzer Marder were evaluated. The findings from the market survey showed that none of the off-the-shelf vehicles met the specific requirements of the SAF. Therefore, the decision was made to develop a vehicle locally. Local development was necessary not only because of a lack of suitable off-the-shelf designs, but also as an opportunity to build up the capability of the local defense industry. Known as "BIONIX", the IFV was the product of a tripartite team of engineers and technical staff from Singapore Technologies Automotive, DMO and G5 Army, working jointly with HQ Armour to produce a fighting machine tailored to the specific operational requirements of the Army. Key considerations during the design process included high mobility and agility, low weight, amphibious capability, and adequate protection and firepower.
Development of the Bionix began in 1988. It took several years before leaving the prototyping phase in 1995 and finally being commissioned on 26 March 1997. ST Automotive was awarded a S$2.5 billion (US$1.7 billion) contract in March 1997 to supply several hundred Bionix IFVs to the Singapore Armed Forces. The first production vehicles were inducted by the 42nd Battalion, Singapore Armoured Regiment in July 1999.[5]
The Bionix IFV has since been succeeded by the Bionix II, which entered a trial service with the Singapore Armed Forces in 2005 with a Company from 41 SAR. In October 2006, The Bionix II was declared operational ready with 42 SAR being the first fully equipped Bionix II battalion. [6]
Description
- Protection
- Engine
The integrated power pack is mounted to the right of the vehicle and can be removed from the Bionix as a complete unit in under 15 minutes. The engine is coupled to the L-3 Combat Propulsion Systems HMPT-500EC fully hydro mechanical transmission, with the final drives being provided by David Brown Defence Systems. The engine compartment is also fitted with an automatic fire detection and dry-powder fire suppression system with a supplementary manual back up.
- Interior
The driver enters via a roof hatch that opens to the left rear. When driving closed-down, observation is via three day periscopes, while the center periscope can be rapidly replaced by an image-intensification periscope for driving at night. The driver guides the vehicle using a small steering wheel rather than tillers and, as an automatic transmission is fitted, there are just two pedals - accelerator and brake. The instrument panel is mounted on the left, with the transmission selection box on the right.
In the turret, the gunner's station is on the right and the commander's station is on the left, each with a single hatch cover. The turret traverses through 360°. Traverse and weapon elevation is by all-electric digital control. Both the gunner and commander have a turret stop button and are able to lay and fire the weapons. The gunner has the turret control box mounted to the right of his position and both turret-crew members have an adjustable seat. The communications equipment is installed in the turret bustle.
The basic production models lacks an in-built air conditioning and NBC protection system, but can be fitted if/when needed.
- Aiming
Variants
Prototypes
- XV1 and XV2 - During the experimental phase, two experimental vehicles were built. The first experimental vehicle, XV1, was conceptualized in August 1989 and rolled out in January 1990 while a second and third vehicles, XV2and XV3, based on a new design, was rolled out in December 1990 and March 1991. They were used to test the new running gear and power pack systems as well to firm up the IFV specifications. By January 1993, the first testbed was available; testbeds 2 and 3 were made ready in June 1993. With the acceptance of the IFV by MINDEF, the final prototype and pre-production model rolled out somewhere between July 1995 and June 1996. A total of 9 trial platforms were built in the years up to 1997.
- Infantry Carrier Vehicle (ICV) - The ICV variant was designed as an entry for the US Army's operational requirements for an Interim Armoured Vehicle for its Interim Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) concept in 2001. The original turret was replaced with a US-designed and built Recon/Optical stabilised Remote Weapon Station armed with either a 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, a 7.62mm machine gun or a 40mm automatic grenade launcher. The replacement of the original turret decreases the overall weight to 17 tonnes, light enough to be air-lifted by a C-130 Hercules plane. It eventually lost the competition to the Stryker ICV and never went into production.
- Bionix Main Battle Tank - Stemming from a need to replace/augment the current fleet of AMX-13 SM1 light tanks, MINDEF and United Defense conducted a series of studies to mount the Thunderbolt Armoured Gun System's 120 mm cannon turret (and alternatively, 105mm) on a variety of chassis, namely an extended Bionix chassis, the Universal Combat Vehicle Platform (which the SSPH Primus was based on) and a variant of the Thunderbolt's chassis. Early extensive attempts to mount an Oto Melara 120 mm turret on the Bionix have been unsuccessful.[7] Singapore has since procured refurbished Leopard 2A4 MBTs.[8]
Production models
Bionix ARV (Armoured Recovery Vehicle)
Bionix AVLB (Armoured Vehicle Launched Bridge)
Trailblazer Counter-Mine Vehicle
- Bionix 25 - First production model. Armed with 25mm Bushmaster cannon turret and 2 x 7.62mm GPMG. The first Bionix 25 production vehicles were completed in September 1997 and, under the Phase I production contract awarded to Singapore Technologies Automotive. Production continued until 2001. A total of 300 were built for the SAF.
- Bionix 40/50 - Variant with Cupola mounted 40mm AGL/0.5-inch HMG twin weapon station and 7.62mm GPMG. Can accommodate up to 11 troops. Approx. 300 were built.
- Bionix II - At the turn of the century, the Bionix design received an upgrade, resulting in the creation of the Bionix II; jointly developed by the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) and Singapore Technologies Engineering. The main turret was upgraded to the 30 mm Bushmaster II cannon and armour was improved. The new cannon has 50% greater armor penetration, while the upgraded armour has 50% greater protection against kinetic or shaped charge warheads. The incorporation of a digital Battlefield Management System has allowed the Bionix II to maintain a higher competency in functionality and survivability by interfacing in real time and sharing information with other linked assets such other army units of the Singapore Army with those of the Air Force and Navy, thereby giving a better all round tactical and situation awareness.[9] The Bionix II has an improved day / night thermal sighting system (DNTSS) with a dual-axis stabilisation system for enhanced target tracking, and an integrated eye-safe laser rangefinder has a range of up to 3 km. Upgrades also include air-conditioning, minefield protection and enhancements to the 30mm cannon.[10]
- Bionix ARV - Armoured Recovery Vehicle variant equipped with a 25 tonne winch and a 30 tonne crane.
- Bionix AVLB - Armoured Vehicle Launched Bridge variant fitted with an MLC30 bridge that can be launched within 7 minutes by a crew of two (commander and driver) from the internal armoured compartment or via remote control panel. When extended the bridge can be used to span a gap of up to 22 metres.
- Bionix Counter-Mine Vehicle (Trailblazer) - The SAF has inducted a 30 ton class Counter-Mine Vehicle (CMV) built on the Bionix chassis called the Trailblazer, which uses a mine flail system. In addition to mine-clearing, the Trailblazer is able to mark its trails using a lane marking system with pneumatically fired rods, enabling vehicles to quickly travel behind the Trailblazer safely without losing momentum.[11]
ZBD-97
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Overview
The ZBD-97, or Type 97, has been in service with the PLA ground forces since 2006, in the armored units of the Guangzhou and Nanjing military regions. Besides the infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) variant, an armored recovery vehicle (ARV) variant is also available. And a further improved variant is known as the ZBD-04.Design
Overview
The ZBD-97 has a crew of three (a commander, a driver, and a gunner) and is able to carry seven troops. The commander and gunner are seated in the two-man turret located in the middle, and the driver with one passenger is located in tandem to the left of the power compartment, located at the front right. Six infantrymen are located in the troop compartment at the rear.There are firing ports in the left, right, and exit door that allow infantrymen to fire assault rifles or light machine guns from inside the vehicle, even on the move. The vehicle has amphibious capability, designed to swim to shore from a ship. For high-speed swimming, it has two large water jet ports.
Armament
The main armament of the ZBD97 is a dual-way stabilised, semi-automatic 100mm rifled gun / missile launcher, capable of firing both HE-FRAG rounds and the 3UBK10 (or its Chinese copy) ATGM. Effective range of the HE-FRAG round is estimated to be 4,000m, with a rate of fire of 10 rounds/minute.The 3UBK10 ATGM consists of a laser beamriding missile and a container case. The missile is used as a part of the Bastion missile system (NATO reporting name: AT-10 Stabber). As well as engaging armoured vehicles and fortifications, the missile could also engage low-flying helicopters. The missile has a range of 100~4,000m. Hit probability is 80% and the armour penetration capability is 600mm. The system carries eight missiles inside the turret.
The secondary weapon include a 30mm coaxial automatic cannon, with 500 rounds. The cannon can fire both armour-piercing (AP) and HE-FRAG rounds. Rate of fire is 300 rounds/min and range is 1,500 to 2,000m. Like the BMP-3, the ZBD-97 also has a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun located to the left of the main gun, but it lacks the two bow 7.62mm machine guns found on the BMD-3.
Protection
The ZBD97 is believed to be fitted with a collective NBC-protection system, with its air filter located behind the turret to the right. There is a three-barrel smoke grenade launcher mounted on either side of the turret. The vehicle lacks the ARENA-E active protection system found on the latest version of the BMP-3, but may be fitted with an indigenous laser warning and countermeasures system.Observation and Fire-Control
The observation systems on the ZBD97 may be similar to those of the BMP-3. The driver’s hatch mounts three periscopes, with the central periscope being able to be replaced by an image intensifying periscope for night vision. Two headlights are located on the front armour of the hull. The gunner has a main sight and a combined image-intensified day / night sight and a standby day sight. The commander has a day sight and a combined day and image-intensified night sight. Fire-control system includes a ballistic computer, an electro-mechanical gun stabiliser and a laser rangefinder.ZBD-08
A further improved variant with upgraded armor, design, armament, plus another anti-tank variant carrying CM-501G missiles. Applique armor was seen.VN11 & VN12
Modified export variants with 30 mm autocannon and improved armor.Operators
People's Liberation Army Ground Force - 400 ZBD-04[1]
Tanque Argentino Mediano
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
(Redirected from TAM (tank)
Argentine Army TAM
|
|
| Type | Main battle tank |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Argentina; Germany |
| Service history | |
| In service | from 1983–present |
| Used by | Argentina |
| Production history | |
| Unit cost | 1,500,000 USD (1983 export price) |
| Produced | 1979–91, 1994–95 |
| Number built | 280 |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 30.5 t (30.0 long tons; 33.6 short tons) |
| Length | 6.75 m (22 ft 2 in) |
| Width | 3.25 m (10 ft 8 in) |
| Height | 2.42 m (7 ft 11 in) |
| Crew | 4 |
Main
armament |
105 mm (4.13 in) FM K.4 Modelo 1L |
Secondary
armament |
2×7.62 mm (0.30 in) machine gun |
| Engine | MTU-MB 833 Ka-500 6-cylinder 22.4 L (1,370 cu in) diesel 540 kW (720 hp) |
| Power/weight | 24 hp/tonne |
| Suspension | Torsion-bar |
Operational
range |
590 km (370 mi), 800 km (500 mi) with auxiliary fuel tanks |
| Speed | 75 km/h (47 mph) |
The TAM met the Argentine Army's requirement for a modern, lightweight and fast tank with a low silhouette and sufficient firepower to defeat contemporary armored threats. Development began in 1974 and resulted in the construction of three prototypes by early 1977 and full-scale production by 1979. Assembly took place at the local 9,600-square-meter (103,000 sq ft) TAMSE plant, founded for the purpose by the Argentine government. Economic difficulties halted production in 1983, but manufacturing began anew in 1994 until the army's order of 200 tanks was fulfilled.
Argentine TAM VCA 155 Palmaria
A TAM VCTP, May 2008
The TAM has never seen combat, although 17 VCTP (Infantry Fighting Vehicles based on the TAM chassis) were deployed to Croatia for the United Nations UNPROFOR peacekeeping mission.
Contents
[hide]Development
During the 1960s Argentina sought to replace its aging fleet of tanks, which included British Sherman V Firefly tanks and American M3A1 half-tracks dating from shortly after the Second World War. In their attempts to procure equipment from the United States, Argentina could only secure 50 M41 Walker Bulldogs (undelivered) and 250 M113 armored personnel carriers. When the United States turned down requests for further equipment, the Argentine government turned to the other side of the Atlantic, putting their "Plan Europa" (Plan Europe) into action. It was hoped that European technology could stimulate Argentine industry so the country could produce its own armaments in the future. Argentina procured 80 AMX-13 light tanks, as well as 180 AMX-VCIs and 24 AMX-155 F3s, from the French government, manufacturing around 40 AMX-13s and 60 AMX-VCIs at home. The French AMX-30 and German Leopard 1 were also examined as possible replacements for the Argentine Sherman fleet.[1]In 1973 the Argentine Ministry of Defense drew up a series of requirements for a tank to enter service in the 1980s. The armored vehicle would weigh no more than 30 tonnes (29.5 long tons; 33.1 short tons), move at a maximum speed of 70 km/h (43 mph), and cover at least 500 km (310 mi) on roads. It would be armed with a modern 105 mm main gun, two machine guns, and grenade launchers. The tank designers also had to take into account Argentina's existing infrastructure, including railroad capacity, bridges and road capacity, as well as the country's varied terrain. In late 1973 the Proyecto de Tanque Argentino Mediano (Medium Argentine Tank Project) was founded with the goal of designing and developing a tank for the Argentine Army. Lacking the experience and the necessary technology, the Argentine government sought collaboration with a foreign company, resulting in a contract with the German company Thyssen-Henschel. The contract called for a transfer of technology resulting in a program to develop a tank in line with the government's requirements and under a technical team that included both German and Argentine engineers. The hull of the German Marder armored personnel carrier was used,[2] and the chassis was strengthened to support the increased weight of the TAM.[3] Two prototypes were manufactured in late 1976 and early 1977,[4] which were put through extensive testing for two years and over a road range of 10,000 km (6,200 mi). Simultaneously, another prototype was manufactured to further the investigation of the new vehicle[2] and complete the three prototypes as agreed in the contract.[5]
The new tank's firepower requirements were met by fitting a British Royal Ordnance L7A1 105 mm (4.13-inch) main gun. This gun was later replaced by the modified L7A2 and finally by Rheinmetall's Rh-105-30 105 mm (4.13-inch) gun. This gun is manufactured in Argentina as the FM K.4 Modelo 1L.[6] The Rh-105-30's advantages include low weight, compact size and increased lethality.[7] Unlike the Rh-105-30, the FM K.4 does not have a muzzle brake.[6] The locally built cannon can be elevated to 18 degrees or depressed to -7 degrees on the TAM.[8] The gun's hydraulic recoil mechanism has an extended range of 580 mm (22.8 inches) to absorb the 34-tonne (33-long-ton; 37-short-ton) recoil force.[9] It is designed to fire the M735A1 armor piercing fin stabilized discarding sabot, which can penetrate a maximum of 370 mm (14.6 inches) at 1,000 meters (1,100 yd). It can also fire high explosive anti-tank rounds, high explosive squash head and smoke rounds.[10] The tank's secondary armaments include a co-axial 7.62 mm (0.30-inch) FN MAG 60-40 general purpose machine gun and a second FN MAG 60-20 mounted on the TAM's turret roof[11] as an anti-aircraft machine gun.[8] The fire control system includes a Nd:YAG laser with a range of 9,900 meters (32,480 ft) and a FLER-HG ballistic computer to compute the gun's fire solutions—helping the gunner aim and hit the target. The tank commander uses a Zeiss PERI-R/TA panoramic periscope, with a 2x and 8x zoom.[12]
TAM with its snorkel installed during an Argentine Army exposition
The TAM's survivability is related to its low profile turret, based on that of the Leopard 1A4s and the Leopard 2,[16] and its physical armor array. It has 50 mm (1.97 inches) at 75 degrees on the glacis plate and 32 degrees on the vehicle's sides. This offers protection against anti-armor shells from up to 35 mm (1.38-inch) guns.[17] The turret front is protected by 50 mm (1.97 in) of steel armor at an angle of 32 degrees.[18] Although the tank's weight and armor protection are light compared to other main battle tanks, it has the advantage of better tactical mobility over the nation's terrain.[19]
As a private venture, Thyssen-Henschel built a fourth prototype designated TH 301. Completed in 1978, it added a PERI R12 periscope, originally designed for the Leopard 1A4, for the tank commander. The gunner and loader each received a day periscope as well. To enable the crew to fire effectively at night, a low light level television (LLLTV) camera, which moved in elevation with the main gun, was fitted to the mantlet. Furthermore, the tank received a more powerful 550 kW (750 metric horsepower) engine.[15] The improvement program also made provisions to increase the thickness of the armor for additional protection.[8]
In 2010, a modernization program was announced. Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems was chosen to provide 3-axis gyro-stabilization, and most probably the L7A2 105 mm cannon will be replaced with a more powerful 120 mm cannon, like the L44 120 mm Cannon.[20] The first TAM unit upgraded by Elbit Systems was delivered in March 2013.[21]
Variants
A number of variants were built on the same chassis as the TAM tank. The original program called for the design of an infantry fighting vehicle, and in 1977 the program finished manufacturing the prototype of the VehÃculo de Combate Transporte de Personal (Personnel Transport Combat Vehicle), or VCTP.[2] The VCTP is able to transport a squad of 12 men, including the squad leader and nine riflemen. The squad leader is situated in the turret of the vehicle; one rifleman sits behind him and another six are seated in the chassis, the eighth manning the hull machine gun and the ninth situated in the turret with the gunner. All personnel can fire their weapons from inside the vehicle, and the VCTP's turret is armed with Rheinmetall's Rh-202 20 mm (0.79-inch) autocannon. The VCTP holds 880 rounds for the autocannon, including subcaliber armor-piercing DM63 rounds. It is also armed with a 7.62 mm FN MAG 60-20 machine gun mounted on the turret roof. Infantry can dismount through a door on the rear of the hull.[22] The commander has a day sight and seven observation periscopes, while the gunner has a day sight and three observation periscopes.[23]
Argentine VCTPs during the peacekeeping in Croatia
Production
The TAMSE plant is a 9,600-square-meter (103,300 sq ft) facility. The factory is completely covered, with two warehouses for storing components, quality control laboratories, a project office, an engine test room and a firing range. Also participating in the production of TAM and variant components were Argentine companies Military Factories General San MartÃn (manufacturing the chassis), RÃo Tercero (turret and armament) and Bator Cocchis, S.A.[32]
Export and combat history
VCLC during the Argentine Army Exhibition in 2008
In the Middle East, both Iran and Saudi Arabia expressed interest in the TAM. The Iranian deal fell through after Saudi Arabia and Iraq successfully appealed to Germany to cancel the order.[33] TAMSE attempted to sell 60 tanks through a Panamanian company, Agrometal, offering this company a commission worth 10% of the contract's price. This failed when TAMSE lowered the price of the vehicles, angering the Iranian government, which subsequently canceled the offer.[34] The Saudi Arabian deal was scrapped when Israel appealed to Germany to cancel the order.[33] Failing to export the tank, the Argentine government closed the TAMSE fabrication plant in 1995.[35]
The TAM did not participate in the Falklands War, as it had not entered service before the end of the conflict.
Seventeen VCTPs were deployed with an Argentina battalion to Yugoslavia during United Nations peacekeeping operations. [30]
Mitsubishi eyes technological leap, and exports, with armored vehicle
By Tim Kelly and Nobuhiro Kubo
File
photo of Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force's soldiers taking positions
after landing on the beach near U.S. Marine Corps AAV7 armored
personnel vehicles during a joint landing exercise at Marine Corps Base
Camp Pendleton in California
By Tim Kelly and Nobuhiro Kubo
TOKYO (Reuters) - In January, a top U.S. Marine general visited
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Japan to look at a prototype of an
amphibious assault vehicle that could one day be a key pillar in Prime
Minister Shinzo Abe's push to sell weapons abroad.
Using engines adapted from the main battle tank the company makes for
Japan's military and new water jet propulsion technology, the full-size
prototype is undergoing pool tests, although it is in the early stages
of development and production could be years off.
Nevertheless, the maker of the wartime Zero fighter plane is eyeing
overseas sales after Abe lifted a decades-old ban on arms exports in
April last year as part of his more muscular security agenda, two
Japanese defense industry sources said.
Mitsubishi designers believe the prototype shown to U.S. Marine Corps
Pacific commander Lieutenant General John Toolan will be more
maneuverable and faster across the water than the 40-year-old AAV7
amphibious assault vehicle used to carry U.S. marines onto beaches from
naval ships anchored offshore, the sources said.
The AAV7 is built by the U.S. unit of Britain's BAE Systems.
The prototype's engines in particular could be fitted onto other armored vehicles, the sources added.
"It's an opportunity for Mitsubishi Heavy to tap overseas markets for
its engine technology," said one of the sources, who declined to be
identified because he was not authorized to speak to the media.
Mitsubishi Heavy wants to build an amphibious armored vehicle that can
move through water at 20 to 25 knots (37 to 46 km per hour) compared to
the more than 7 knots (13 km per hour) reached by the AAV7, said the
sources.
"If the Japanese can get 20 knots in the water without compromising
maneuverability on land, we will be very interested," said one Marine
Corps official who saw the prototype in January but declined to be
identified.
"Whether that's possible remains to be seen."
A Mitsubishi Heavy spokesman said the prototype had been shown to the
Japanese Ministry of Defense, but declined to give details about the
vehicle. At a Paris arms show last June, a suitcase-sized model of an
eight-wheeled armored troop carrier was the centerpiece display at the
company's exhibition booth.
The Ministry of Defense was aware of Mitsubishi Heavy's research into
amphibious vehicles but was not involved in the project, a ministry
spokesman said.
Manny Pacheco, a spokesman for U.S. Marine Corps procurement, declined to comment on the prototype.
But he said the Marine Corps was "always interested in the
technological advances of industry" and encouraged manufacturers to use
"every opportunity to showcase their wares and get their products
submitted through our competitive procurement process".
TOUGH TECHNOLOGY
Amphibious vehicles are central to marine units around the world,
allowing forces to operate on land and sea. But there has been little
significant technological advancement in such vehicles in recent
decades.
A tracked Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle that was being developed for
the U.S. Marine Corps by U.S. weapons maker General Dynamics Corp was
canceled in 2011 after big cost increases and technical issues.
The Marine Corps last year kicked off a competition for a new wheeled
amphibious combat vehicle (ACV) that could operate on shorelines and
shallow water.
Pacheco said the Marine Corps was reviewing proposals from five
manufacturers to build a prototype. He did not identify the companies.
A feasibility study by BAE and General Dynamics had recommended against
using current technology to build a vehicle in line with Marine Corps
requirements, a U.S.-based BAE spokeswoman told Reuters.
"The study concluded that although the technology existed, it would not be fielded at an affordable price," she said.
BAE was talking to Mitsubishi Heavy about being a potential partner on
the body design of the new Japanese vehicle, the BAE spokeswoman added.
General Dynamics was in similar talks with Mitsubishi Heavy, said
sources in Japan. General Dynamics said it did "not have any information
to provide at this time".
NEED FOR SPEED
Mitsubishi Heavy has been making armored vehicles for Japan's military
for around 80 years, beginning with the Imperial forces in the 1930s. It
also builds fighter aircraft, naval vessels, submarines and missiles.
The company also makes high-speed marine engines and water jet propulsion systems, according to its website.
"Japan's technology is good enough that we have to look at it," said a
U.S. military industrial source familiar with the amphibious vehicle
plans.
Although a coastal nation, post-war Japan only formed an amphibious
military unit in 2012. The 3,000-strong unit will be equipped with more
than 50 AAV7s.
It was disappointment at the speed of those vehicles over water that
spurred Japan to build a new one, Japanese defense officials told
Reuters.
Japan's military is also concerned about the ability of the
caterpillar-tracked vehicles to ride over coral reefs, a common feature
in the East China Sea, where Tokyo is embroiled in a territorial dispute
with China.
The BAE spokeswoman acknowledged the desire of the U.S. Marine Corps to
increase water speed, adding there should be "no operational concern"
with coral reefs.
(Editing by Dean Yates)
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