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Another Order for Rheinmetall in the Field of Automated Reconnaissance Systems for Ukraine – Order in the Two-Digit Million-Euro Range

Saturday, October 7th, 2023

Rheinmetall has again been awarded a contract to supply automated reconnaissance systems to Ukraine. The order was placed by the German government. Rheinmetall has again been awarded a contract to supply automated reconnaissance systems to Ukraine. The order was placed by the German government.

SurveilSpire is a drone defence system designed to reconnoitre and engage hostile drones. The reconnaissance systems include mobile surveillance towers with day and night vision camera equipment, autopiloted mini-drones and a command and control system. Transport vehicles are also included in the scope of delivery. The systems are used in particular to monitor sections of terrain with as few personnel as possible. The system can also provide a 5G network. Rheinmetall is cooperating on the project with the Estonian company DefSecIntel.

The order value is in the lower double-digit million euro range. Delivery has already begun.

Made by Estonia’s DefSecIntel, the SurveilSPIRE surveillance towers can be loaded onto trailers and quickly transported to their area of operation. Assembly requires three personnel; operation is fully automated. The system includes wireless links (4G and Starlink) for video transmission to a mobile command post. Solar panels enable sustained operation without power cables or a fuel source. The system relies on autopiloted reconnaissance drones that conduct patrols and mission-specific flights. This enables inspection of detected threats and lets the operator initiate necessary countermeasures.
Rheinmetall is already taking part in several projects in support of Ukraine. These include deliveries of Marder infantry fighting vehicles, ammunition of various calibres, field hospitals, military trucks and, soon, a LUNA Next Generation reconnaissance system. Furthermore, Rheinmetall is a partner in multiple multilateral “Ringtausch” transactions. This procedure, developed by the German government, is designed to support the Ukrainian war effort in cooperation with Germany’s European neighbours and NATO partners. Here, NATO member nations transfer Soviet-era equipment to Ukraine in exchange for surplus Western-made systems.

Posted in Contracts, International, ISR, Press Release | Comments Off on Another Order for Rheinmetall in the Field of Automated Reconnaissance Systems for Ukraine – Order in the Two-Digit Million-Euro Range

The Ghost Robotics Vision-60 As ISR Platform

Wednesday, September 20th, 2023

A lot has been made of the weaponization of ground robots. Much of it is is due to our fascination with science fiction. No sooner is an image shared online like the one above of a robot armed with a machine gun than the comments about “Skynet” and “Terminators” kick in. But what is lost on most is why we developed robots in the first place. It wasn’t to deliver a lethal effect; there are lots of ways to make that happen. Robots were created as helpers, in order to remove humans from environments which might endanger them.

We’ve also got to accept a truth which is lost on many. The robot isn’t the capability, it’s the vehicle which delivers the capability. We desire effect and that requires various capabilities which come in the form of payloads. What makes various types of robots more desirable over others is how they deliver the payload to the right place, at the right time, to have the right effect. We use robots to reduce risk, particularly to humans.

Take for instance this image from last week’s DSEI show in London. We see a Ghost Robotics Vision 60 Quadraped – Unmanned Ground Vehicle carrying another robot, in this case an unmanned aerial system configured for an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance role. This combination may be perfect, depending on the operational environment. It may be highly lethal to humans and require close access to the target of the surveillance.

To be sure, there are definite reasons to weaponize ground robots. They can be used in overwatch for example, or to guard perimeters. But in each case, they are desirable in these roles because they take a human out of a threat environment. Recently, the US Army stated that it wants to place a Next Generation Squad Weapon XM7 rifle, firing the new 6.8mm cartridge on a Vision 60 Q-UGV. There are technical challenges which a couple of commercial companies have worked through, but it can be done. The question is, “why?” What effect do they believe it will provide? Is it the right payload for that platform?

During the Robotics track of next week’s NDIA sponsored Future Forces Capabilities event in Huntsville, Alabama, you’ll see a lot of talk of various means to weaponize robots. It makes sense considering the event evolved from annual small arms and armaments meetings. However, we need more participation from the ISR community in this event.

The air side of unmanned systems has taken the opposite path. Long dominated by collection activities, they’ve only more recently integrated kinetic weapons delivery to their repertoire.

I believe the best use of at least the smaller classes of ground robots is as platforms for various sensors, including ISR, CBRN and as comms relay nodes for these and others. Persistent access to items of intelligence value puts operators at risk. What’s more, the task is time consuming and boring. a human’s efforts are best spent elsewhere, like considering how to use the data being vacuumed by a multitude of robots fitted witg various collection payloads.

As a former SIGINTer and Intelligence officer I’ve been thinking a lot about how to use ground robots for ISR. There is a lot of synergy to be had between the air, subsurface (maritime), and ground robotics communities when it comes to payloads. We need more interest from the developers of sensors in utilizing ground robots of various classes as platforms and cross talk between the various warfighter communities.

Robots are coming to the battlespace. It’s up to us to determine how to best use them. Some will be armed and some will conduct ISR. Others will serve as logistics enablers and communications nodes.

We need to brainstorm ways to get the most out of our investment in ground-based unmanned systems. Soon, I’ll share a concept I’ve come up with to use Vision 60 Q-UGVs to access challenging terrain and environments to conduct Multi-Int persistent ground surveillance.

-Eric Graves

Editor

Posted in Advertiser, CEMA, ISR, Robotics | 1 Comment »

Army Kicks Off Network Field Experiments

Friday, August 18th, 2023

JOINT BASE McGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. — Army scientists and engineers are kicking off the annual Network Modernization Experiment, or NetModX, as they move their capabilities from the lab to a field environment across the New Jersey installation.

The Army’s Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Center conducts NetModX at JB-MDL and Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, over eight weeks as a capstone experimentation event. It creates an operationally relevant, threat-informed environment to prove out disruptive and transformative C5ISR technologies. The C5ISR Center is an element of the Combat Capabilities Development Command.

The center’s field experimentation builds upon its modeling and simulation work and lab research, according to Noah Weston, the C5ISR Center’s chief of strategic experimentation. The NetModX team partners with subject-matter experts from across the Army to design experiments that best address the Army’s needs and gaps.

“The Army needs data to make the right decisions at the right time to mature science and technology products to be deployable,” Weston said. “Experimentation allows us to obtain early data on system performance that can inform future Army requirements.”

The C5ISR Center conducts NetModX, which is composed of about 80 technologies for 2023, with the Army’s programs of record, cross-functional teams, other DEVCOM organizations and industry partners for an approach that ranges from science and technology to acquisition.

“NetModX expands our knowledge of emerging networking technologies in relevant field conditions and fosters critical early collaboration between government and industry partners,” said Stephen Blair, senior science and technology advisor for the Network Cross-Functional Team, part of Army Futures Command. “It informs our collective efforts to reduce network complexity at lower echelons; increase speed and survivability through mobile command posts; manage electronic signature; and improve interoperability.”

NetModX intends to deliver key insights to help transition capabilities from the “art of the possible” to the “achievable,” said Joe Saldiveri, NetModX project lead and C5ISR Center engineer.

“These experimentation opportunities enable the Army stakeholders to come together to spark collaboration and inform critical decisions,” Saldiveri said.

The C5ISR Center partners with the Army’s Program Executive Office Command, Control and Communications-Tactical during NetModX to provide technical and operational data on emerging technology.

“Experimentation events such as NetModX support our network design efforts for the Army of 2030 or to inform conditions as we look forward to how our programs will support Army of 2040 network modernization,” said Assistant Program Executive Officer Ward Roberts. “NetModX data supports our developers with integration and technical maturity insight on targeted capability that has transition potential into programs of record and informs formulation of design goals as we work with Cross-Functional Team community.”

By Dan Lafontaine, DEVCOM C5ISR Center Public Affairs

Posted in Army, Guest Post, ISR | Comments Off on Army Kicks Off Network Field Experiments

MDM 23 – Aries Defense Launches NEOS

Thursday, June 29th, 2023

NEOS is a new hardware solution from Aries Defense designed to optimize network bandwidth utilization for UAS/UAV Platforms. The system compresses and optimizes the data allowing more signals to be passed simultaneously.

Based in their OverWatch integration kit, it provides network bandwidth management and adds a fully customizable reticle to the video feed which allows for quicker call for fire commands.

Aries Defense is working with Skydio and L3Harris Technologies for integration of their systems, allowing multiple users access to multiple feeds. With the Marines deploying a UAS at the squad level, NEOS offers simultaneous direct access to a wider range of sensors both at the tactical edge as well as at the command post and even national level.

Posted in Comms, ISR, MDM | Comments Off on MDM 23 – Aries Defense Launches NEOS

Colorado Springs to host DEL 15, two Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Squadrons

Wednesday, June 28th, 2023

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

The U.S. Space Force’s Space Delta 15, activated in March 2023, is expected to be permanently based at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, along with the new 75th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Squadron. Additionally, the service expects the 74th ISR Squadron, activated in November 2022, to be based at Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado.

DEL 15, a command-and-control organization within Space Operations Command, provides mission-ready forces in support of the National Space Defense Center’s protect and defend space mission. The unit currently operates at Schriever Space Force Base and is expected to remain there permanently.

The two ISR squadrons will provide additional capabilities within Space Delta 7, which has embedded detachments in each of the command’s other deltas to provide real-time ISR support to their respective missions.

The 74th ISR Squadron provides tailored threat analysis and intelligence production for tactical space operations. The squadron’s intelligence gathering is used to empower space operations to combat current, emerging, and future adversaries.

The new 75th ISR Squadron will be responsible for the federated targeting mission through orbital targeting sections focusing on integrating kinetic and non-kinetic targeting for the Joint Force across several orbital regimes.

The Department of the Air Force’s decision to host DEL 15 and the two ISR squadrons came after conducting thorough site surveys which assessed the location’s ability to facilitate the missions and infrastructure capacity while accounting for community support, environmental factors, and cost.

The Department of the Air Force will now conduct environmental impact analyses at each base, which are expected to be completed later this year before final decisions are made.

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

Posted in Forces Focus, Guest Post, ISR, Space | Comments Off on Colorado Springs to host DEL 15, two Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Squadrons

AATC Tests Enhanced Intelligence Gathering Capabilities with MQ-9 Reaper Upgrade

Monday, June 5th, 2023

EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska (AFNS) —

The Air National Guard-Air Force Reserve Command Test Center partnered with the 174th Attack Wing and 556th Test and Evaluation Squadron to test an upgraded satellite communications capability of the MQ-9 Reaper during exercise Northern Edge 2023 at Eielson Air Force Base.

Northern Edge 23 is a U.S. Indo-Pacific Command-sponsored, Headquarters Pacific Air Forces-led, multilateral, joint field training exercise at main operating bases Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and Eielson AFB.

The MQ-9 is a remotely piloted aircraft primarily used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Air National Guard pilots, using the SATCOM upgrade, can now fly ISR missions in real-time almost anywhere around the world from remote bases in the United States.

The MQ-9’s upgraded SATCOM system uses advanced satellite technology to transmit data and communications over long distances. It is capable of flying at high altitudes for extended periods and its sensors can provide real-time intelligence on adversary positions, movements and activities. The ANG plans to deploy the upgraded MQ-9 to support ongoing operations around the world, as well as for training exercises and other missions in support of U.S. national security objectives.

“The speed at which this modernization effort and test program has been accomplished highlights the Accelerate, Change, or Lose vision from General Brown,” said Maj. Ryan Nastase, Test Program manager.

“This SATCOM upgrade will allow pole-to-pole operations while increasing the amount of data or bandwidth the MQ-9 can transmit and receive by more than double and reducing the latency or time of transmission by a factor of 10.”

Maj Ryan Nastase, Test Program Manager

With the upgraded SATCOM capability, the MQ-9 can continue to modernize by integrating more advanced sensors that require increased bandwidth. The upgrade enhances the aircraft’s ability to provide real-time situational awareness to combatant commanders around the world.

“This upgrade is a game-changer for the MQ-9 and the Air National Guard,” said Lt. Col. Matthew Harris, Hancock Field ANG Base test pilot at Syracuse, New York. “We can better support our combatant commanders and provide critical intelligence in real-time.”

The SATCOM upgrade is one of many advancements being fielded on the MQ-9. The ANG and its partners are continually working to enhance the capabilities of these critical assets and provide combatant commanders with the best possible support.

by SSgt Van Whatcott, 162nd Wing Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, ISR, UAS | Comments Off on AATC Tests Enhanced Intelligence Gathering Capabilities with MQ-9 Reaper Upgrade

SOF Week 23 – DefendTex DRONE40 Update

Monday, May 15th, 2023

I first wrote about the DRONE40 during SOFIC 2019. Since then Australian manufacturer DefendTex has continued development.

Above is the latest version. Although it is designed to be launched from a side opening grenade launcher like the M320, it can also be hand launched after delpoying the four rotors which keep it aloft via an internal battery (10W). Playloads include ISR as well as kinetic options.

Below is the original model I mentioned in 2019. As you can see, the updated model is a bit longer.

It weighs around 190 grams depending on payload. Max loitering time is up to 30 minutes with a max flight distance of 20km and a max dash speed of 20m/s. It can be controlled via various apps on an EUD along with ISR downlink. However, it also offers autonomous flight characteristics (GPS-based) which also allow use of swarm tactics. Although there are explosive payload options, the DRONE40 can be reused for distraction, ISR, and EW missions. Below is the new stored form factor for safe transport.

DefendTex also developed a cassette launcher for the DRONE40 called HIVE, for up to six systems, which can be deployed as a stand-alone launcher or mounted to other platforms like the BANSHEE I wrote about during last fall’s Land Forces exhibition in Brisbane, Australia.

Posted in ISR, Munitions, SOF Week | 2 Comments »

RGB Spectrum Mission-Critical Video Solutions Continue Industry Momentum in Military

Monday, May 8th, 2023

New Product Innovations on Display at SOF Week with Partners Samsung and DTI (Deployable Technologies)

Named Best Monitoring Solution Winner for 2023 ‘Govies’ Award

Secured Million Dollar Customer Wins in the Aerospace and Defense Sectors

ALAMEDA, California – May 4, 2023 – RGB Spectrum®, an industry leader in mission-critical video for real-time decision support, today announced its continued market momentum for its mission-critical solutions for defense, aerospace, and military applications. These include a new joint product innovation, an industry honor, and a series of customer wins.

RGB Spectrum is a pioneer in visualization solutions and builds and supports video distribution, display, and recording systems for global organizations across various markets. Specifically designed for these include technology platforms such as C5ISR, flight simulators, and command and control operations.

Partner Innovations to Share at SOF Week
U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has partnered with industry to host an annual conference in Tampa, FL, for over a decade. In 2021, it expanded the event to a broader convention for the entire SOF Community, creating SOF Week. The first rendition of this modified format takes place in Tampa from May 8-11, 2023.

RGB Spectrum will partner with Samsung in booth #243 to showcase the power of our processing solutions and our deep integrations with the tactical mobile team to connect and streamline communications from C5ISR to secured spaces, wheeled and tracked vehicles, tactical operations centers, and wearable tactical gear.

Behind the technology, RGB Spectrum’s Zio video wall processors power Samsung Display LED technology including The Wall All-In-One and 8K QLED Video Wall Signage. Paired with RGB Spectrum’s Zio Mobile Application on Samsung tactical mobile devices, the solution delivers unique capabilities for secure video resources and network access across domains.

Also, during SOF Week 2023, DTI will reveal a live mock-up of its Deployable Edge Network Suite (DENS). This rugged, secure communications case will incorporate RGB Spectrum technology and displays from Samsung. Visit DTI’s booth #L401 to see more of this concept come to life.

Industry Recognition
Furthering its ongoing growth within the military sector, RGB Spectrum is pleased to announce that its Zio Video-over-IP Platform has won Gold for Monitoring Solutions at the Security Today ‘Govies’ Government Security Awards 2023. The ‘Govies’ honor, representing a broad spectrum of industry voices, encompasses the world’s best in government security technology and its achievements.

Ongoing Customer Momentum
RGB Spectrum works closely with several customers to deliver military solutions and ecosystems, including the Missile Defence Agency (MDA), Dept. of Homeland Security, U.S. Border Patrol, NASA, U.S Secret Service, U.S Veterans Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. Marine Corps Quantico, and on flight simulators.

Here’s a few details about recent wins:

• Our IP codecs are the de facto standard for pilot training. They are deployed in flight simulators for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, P-8 Poseidon, F-22 Raptor and V-22 Osprey aircraft, the Global Hawk/Triton UAV, and the Apache, Kiowa, Chinook, and Blackhawk helicopters.

• For the F-35, we provided a complete signal distribution and recording solution. Our codecs are installed in each of the simulator’s pilot pods. Feeds from image generators and video cameras are encoded, distributed, and recorded, including avionics, out-the-window imagery, target acquisition, navigation, and weapons control. Decoders in the Instructor’s Operation Station (IOS) and the After-Action Review (AAR) facility are used for real-time access and debriefing.

• Our networked video platform is deployed on the U.S. Navy Littoral Ship (LCS) Fleet. From the LCS bridge to the combat information center (CIC) and throughout the ship, the Zio platform distributes critical information for command and control and tactical decision-making in the battlespace or area of operations.

“We are delighted to partner with Samsung and Deployable Technologies during SOF Week and to be recognized for our Zio Video-over-IP Platform by Security Today.” said Bob Marcus, CEO, RGB Spectrum. “We continue to work with the military technology sector to produce innovative solutions and ecosystems and work closely with our key partners to design platforms that address some of the military’s most comprehensive challenges.”

To learn more, visit RGB Spectrum at SOF Week 2023 with Samsung in booth #243 and Deployable Technologies in booth #L401 from May 8-11, 2023, in Tampa, Florida. Or visit www.rgb.com.

Posted in ISR, Optics, Press Release, SOF Week | Comments Off on RGB Spectrum Mission-Critical Video Solutions Continue Industry Momentum in Military