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Mobility and Firepower: Rheinmetall Presents the Lynx 120 Mechanized Fire Support Vehicle

Monday, February 21st, 2022

Rheinmetall has just unveiled the latest addition to the company’s Lynx next-generation combat vehicle family. The Düsseldorf-based technology group has now developed a mechanized fire support variant of the Lynx KF41 IFV. Called the Lynx 120, this unique platform merges a tried-and-tested turret concept and the proven 120mm smoothbore cannon with the Lynx KF 41 chassis. The new mechanized fire support variant of the Lynx offers the user outstanding fire support and anti-tank capabilities.

Thanks to a well-balanced blend of lethality, protection, mobility and survivability, the Lynx 120 is the perfect additional battlefield asset for Lynx platform users. Featuring off-the-shelf components, meticulous engineering reduces the vehicle’s weight, while customizable protection packages round out the package. The vehicle architecture has been simplified and provides an open ‘plug-and-play’ capability for future upgrades, while complying with, and adapting to, NATO standards.

Because armed forces have to cope with future challenges such as high-tech combat systems at a time when conventional solutions and concepts have reached the limits of their performance, the Lynx 120 is designed to deliver maximum lethality and firepower on tracks paired with the latest defence technologies to keep adversaries at bay.

Utilizing the Lynx KF 41 modular chassis and a scalable large-calibre turret concept, the Lynx 120 is a high-performance solution, harbouring vast growth potential and an assured overmatch capability. Just a couple of weeks ago, Rheinmetall Defence Australia unveiled a combat support vehicle (CSV) variant of the Lynx: now there is the fire support version as well.

The basic idea behind the Lynx 120 design concept is to provide a combat system that offers maximum operational performance in combination with logistic advantages within a reasonable timeframe at a realistic cost.

The vehicle’s main armament is a Rheinmetall 120mm smoothbore gun, derived from the main armament of the Leopard 2. It can fire state-of-the-art DM11 programmable high-explosive (HE) projectiles. Its secondary armament includes a coaxial machine gun. Moreover, the commander’s independent weapon station will feature an additional .50 cal. machine gun.

A 360° camera system with automatic target detection and tracking reduces the crew’s workload in all operational scenarios.

Special protection modules enable a mission-specific response to ballistic threats, improvised explosive devices, explosively formed penetrators and artillery fire, and can be quickly mounted with limited tools. Moreover, the Lynx 120 can be readily equipped with the proven, already fielded Rheinmetall Active Defence System, or ADS, to defeat rocket-propelled grenades and antitank missiles. Additional armour packages and active protection systems can be provided on request.

Various nations are interested in acquiring the Lynx as a next-generation replacement for their aging inventories. The platform is currently a strong contender in Australian and Slovak IFV modernization plans and is competing for the USA’s Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV) programme. Hungary became the launch customer in 2021. Going beyond strictly military aspects such as increased interoperability and capability upgrades, major localization elements form an integral part of these procurement plans, aimed at boosting local industry and creating jobs.

Posted in Advertiser, Mobility, Press Release, weapons | 1 Comment »

MaxTrax Mini & Light Tactical Trailer

Thursday, February 10th, 2022

Blackside Solutions showed us the newest product in the Maxtrax line up; the Maxtrax mini is designed specifically for use with UTVs. It features a size to provide a smaller foot print in your load plan and is easy to mount thanks to the mounting pin system.

Also seen is the light tactical trailer.

It was designed to accommodate the US SOCOM LTATV platforms for mobility operations. Ideal for carrying essential or mission critical gear, carrying out resupply operations in the field. The trailer be configured for medavac operations with a two litter carrying capability. 1750lb payload capacity. Tilt dump bed, Torsion style axles for ground clearance.

Unit or agency inquiries

www.BlackSidesolutions.com

Thomas@blacksidesolutions.com

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Sweden Offers BAE Systems’ Combat-Proven CV90 to Slovakia

Thursday, February 3rd, 2022

ÖRNSKÖLDSVIK, Sweden — Feb. 1, 2022 — BAE Systems has confirmed its bid submission, together with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), for the advanced, combat- proven CV90 in response to the Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic’s acquisition of 152 new Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV) in multiple variants. The offer will ensure the production and delivery of the CV90 in collaboration with local Slovak industry, on time and to budget.

The joint filing by FMV and BAE Systems confirms the Swedish states’ support for Slovakia, further strengthening governmental relations as the country looks to modernize its ground forces by 2030. The bid includes support with training, tactics, and future development and welcomes Slovakia as a member of the CV90 User Club.

BAE Systems Hägglunds, which manufactures the CV90 in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden, has delivered multiple CV90 export programs to European customers. With a history of highly successful industrial cooperation that goes beyond the mechanical assembly of the vehicle, the team will work with several Slovak companies to deliver the CV90s to the Army.

“BAE Systems’ approach is built on strategic collaboration with local suppliers, enabling them to play a high-value role in the development, production, training, and support of the CV90 MkIV and all its variants,” said Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, managing director of BAE Systems Hägglunds. “We are committed to exceeding the mandated 40 per cent requirement for direct content as we work closely with Slovak industry to deliver the most capable, combat-proven IFV on the market today.”

In June 2021, the CV90 participated in dynamic and static demonstrations to Slovak VIPs, including defense minister Jaroslav Na?, and representatives from the Army at the Military Technical and Testing Institute of Záhorie, Republic of Slovakia. Three variants of the CV90 family – the CV90 MkIV, an Armoured Personnel Carrier, and the Medium Tank CV90120 – showcased the diverse capabilities of the CV90 fleet.

Available in 15 variants, the CV90 is designed to provide optimum mobility, with the highest level of protection in any terrain or tactical environment. The latest version, the CV90 MkIV, combines improved battlefield speeds and handling with an upgraded Electronic Architecture to support future growth capabilities as the complex battlefield evolves.

The CV90 is in operation with Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. There are nearly 1,300 CV90s of numerous variants in service. The vehicle has an established track record and is designed to accommodate future growth to meet evolving missions.

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347 RQS Tests New Vehicle Drop for Lead Wing

Thursday, February 3rd, 2022

MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga (AFNS) —

The Side by Vehicle (SXV) is the newest Search and Rescue Tactical Vehicle added to the 347th Rescue Group’s arsenal, bringing more firepower and range than other models.

Although the 38th Rescue Squadron has been integrating the SXV into ground combat training scenarios, this was the first time they teamed up with the 71st RQS for an aerial delivery of an SXV, Jan. 20.

“This is the first step in building greater ground mobility options for the 38th Rescue Squadron and Air Force Special Warfare,” said Lt. Col. Michael Vins, 38th RQS commander. “Wherever paratroopers and combat rescue officers can land, we can potentially drop a (a lighter-weight tactical vehicle) or SXV to assist with ground mobility.

“For example, if an airfield is attacked and runway unusable, we could drop in a Guardian Angel team and pair of vehicles to consolidate survivors into a casualty collection point, treat life-threatening injuries, provide security and prepare for extraction,” Vins added.

The drop took roughly a year to execute because the vehicle – stripped of weapons, equipment and fuel – weighs 4,445 pounds and is near the parachute weight limit. Accommodating the increased load required additional preparation.

“In order to be one-hundred percent combat effective, we need to see what works with the aerial delivery package and what does not,” said Master Sgt. Daniel Lillis, 38th RQS pararescue flight chief. “Once the vehicle and team leave the aircraft there may be little to no outside support. We need to determine what is required to be self-sufficient for extended durations of time in multiple environments. Additionally, we’re testing the durability of the vehicle itself upon airdrop – confirming that falling from the sky will not render the vehicle inoperable.”

This vehicle can be used to move equipment, personnel or patients to different locations. Furthermore, it has potential to develop the ability to provide power and be used as a moving communication center. Employing the vehicle requires personnel to know its capabilities, durability and sustainability.

“Understanding capabilities and limitations of our equipment is vital prior to employing it on an actual mission,” Lillis said. “Constantly refining our rescue equipment and employment of the equipment is crucial to remaining effective as we look to the future of warfare and rescue.”

By adding an additional infiltration and exfiltration method, Moody Air Force Base hones their Lead-Wing capabilities. This allows rescue personnel to be more agile.

“The reality is Guardian Angel has a vast array of employment methods such as boats, vehicles, on foot, or any type of aircraft the (Department of Defense) has to offer,” Lillis said. “Preparing for a peer-to-peer, or near-peer threat requires us to think outside the box and train toward other methods of infiltration/exfiltration.”

This drop marks the beginning of solidifying standard operating procedures using the SXV, and although it may not be the primary method for each mission, it adds another option to the rescue toolkit.

“As we progress, we’ll integrate the drops into scenarios with derigging procedures, ground movements and recoveries,” Vins said. “If successful and safe, we’ll be able to show a proof of concept to senior leaders of another infiltration method to bring isolated personnel home.”

Story by Airman 1st Class Deanna Muir, 23rd Wing Public Affairs

Photos by MSgt Daryl Knee

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British Army Experiments with Automated Vehicles to Deliver Vital ‘Last Mile’ Capability

Thursday, January 27th, 2022

The British Army has embarked on a six-month experiment, working with industry, that will focus on the feasibility of automating supplies to soldiers.

This innovative experiment, known as Project Theseus, will determine which tasks in the crucial ‘last mile’ of the battlefield can be automated. This technology will be used to transform the Army of the future.

Under Project Theseus, it is hoped the use of self-driving air or ground platforms to deliver combat supplies, including ammunition, materials, food and fuel, will reduce the need for personnel to risk their life by entering into what are typically hostile environments.

Contracts worth £3million each have been awarded to Horiba Mira, Rafael, and Marlborough Communications Limited (MCL) to provide full ground and air automated resupply systems for the tactical battlefield.

Robotic and Autonomous System capabilities will play an increasing role in delivering deployed sustainment in the near-future. Doing so will increase combat power through increasing mass and tempo of resupply, as well as reducing risk-to-life for our people, leading to an increased probability of mission success.

-MAJOR MATT MCGARVEY-MILES, SO2C ROBOTIC AND AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS, FUTURE FORCE DEVELOPMENT

On 9 December 2021, Nuneaton-based Horiba Mira demonstrated its autonomous ground and air vehicle platforms. This included an uncrewed aerial vehicle (drone) taking off, loaded with ammo boxes and dropping them to soldiers some distance away, and a ground platform loaded by soldiers with a dummy casualty evacuation, which was then sent back to the command station.

The project is part of the Army’s wider Robotics and Autonomous Systems experimentation within the Expeditionary Robotics Centre of Expertise. It has built upon the foundation of autonomous systems development from projects such as Robotic Platoon Vehicle (RPV), which predominantly focused on platform autonomy.

Major Matt McGarvey-Miles, SO2C Robotic and Autonomous Systems, Future Force Development said,

“Robotic and Autonomous System capabilities will play an increasing role in delivering deployed sustainment in the near-future. Doing so will increase combat power through increasing mass and tempo of resupply, as well as reducing risk-to-life for our people, leading to an increased probability of mission success.”

Theseus also exploits the innovation, findings and technology demonstrator investigations delivered by Dstl’s Autonomous Last Mile Re-Supply (ALMRS) project.

Theseus is looking at the entire resupply process, as a system, rather than individual platforms. It will seek to identify the most effective tasks to automate, including the use of AI tools.

Experimentation with the Field Army will take place in the UK, culminating with a large-scale experiment in March 2022.

The project will not only focus on the use of self-driving air and ground vehicles but also the autonomous processing, ordering and delivery of ammunition, fuel and other items to troops over the last mile of the battlefield. The aim is to give soldiers the ease of an Amazon-style delivery service when and where they need it most.

The project will deliver six months of funded research and development and a series of capability experiments. The autonomous systems being put through their paces are designed to augment the existing military capability, not replace it, and will enable soldiers to be redeployed to the tasks that only humans can do.

– Courtesy of British Army

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American Rheinmetall Systems attains significant investment in technology to support U.S. Army modernization efforts

Tuesday, January 25th, 2022

American Rheinmetall Systems, Biddeford, ME, is pleased to announce a multi-million dollar investment in the company’s strategic plan to support U.S. Army combat vehicle modernization priorities with advanced combat vehicle mission systems technologies. The company will be growing its workforce particularly in advanced engineering segments as well as bringing new industrial capability to further develop and ultimately deliver those technologies from their facility.
American Rheinmetall Systems will bring to the market next-generation situational awareness and fire control systems by leveraging existing Rheinmetall turret technologies that are currently in production for several Allied nations. This enables them to deliver advanced, highly competitive combat vehicle mission systems solutions fully from their Maine facility—which positions them to support high priority technology needs of the U.S. Army across the Army’s combat vehicle modernization strategy.

American Rheinmetall Systems will be positioned to support fellow Rheinmetall affiliate American Rheinmetall Vehicles, Sterling Heights, MI, which is currently performing in Phase 2 of the Army’s OMFV program and is expected to compete in future phases. The OMFV program seeks to select a replacement for the Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). American Rheinmetall Systems will also engage with other vehicle providers in support of additional priority Army modernization programs.
With this significant investment, American Rheinmetall Systems will add systems and software engineers to its Biddeford team, transfer base turret technology from Germany and the UK, and establish systems integration capabilities within its facility; becoming fully capable of design, production, and support of turret fire control systems for the U.S. market. Additionally, they will specialize in 360° situational awareness technologies, AI-based target detection and recognition, imaging processing, and interoperability with supporting open system architectures that enable the rapid insertion of technology in the modern era of fast-paced innovation.

”This investment in American Rheinmetall Systems’ growing U.S. electronics business is a clear indication of Rheinmetall’s overall commitment to being an exceptional partner in meeting the U.S. Army’s modernization priorities,” said Brad Hittle, American Rheinmetall Systems’ President & CEO. “We will be adding 10 to 15 high-level engineering jobs in Maine, as well as industrializing locally to offer world-class solutions for the Army’s next-generation vehicle technology requirements.”
American Rheinmetall Systems works alongside American Rheinmetall Munitions (Stafford, VA and Camden, AR) and American Rheinmetall Vehicles to deliver next-generation technologies to U.S. customers across the full breadth of Rheinmetall’s global product portfolio. “American Rheinmetall is committed to being a partner to the U.S. Army across many modernization priorities and we are putting our commitment into action,” said Stephen Hedger, Head of U.S. Business and CEO of overall U.S. corporate parent American Rheinmetall Defense (Reston, VA). “This is a historic moment for Army modernization, and American Rheinmetall is meeting the moment with advanced technology, new jobs and expanded industrial capability to ensure U.S. Soldiers have the edge for decades to come.”

www.arsusa.com

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Clarus Acquires MAXTRAX, the Market Leader in Vehicle Recovery and Extraction Track for the Overland and Off-Road Market

Thursday, December 30th, 2021

Acquisition Accelerates Clarus’ Vision to Scale its Overlanding and Vehicle Accessory Category

Clarus Corporation (NASDAQ: CLAR) (“Clarus” and/or the “Company”), a global company focused on the outdoor and consumer enthusiast markets, today announced it has acquired Australian-based MAXTRAX® (“MAXTRAX”), the market leader in producing the best overlanding and off-road vehicle recovery and extraction tracks, for a combination of cash, stock, and future consideration. MAXTRAX will continue to operate independently as a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Clarus and will be part of the Company’s Overlanding reporting segment, which includes recently acquired Rhino-Rack. MAXTRAX’s net sales for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021, were approximately AUD 21 million.

“We look forward to welcoming the MAXTRAX team to the Clarus family and continuing this ‘super fan’ brand’s legacy of “allowing overland enthusiasts to take the easy way out,” states John Walbrecht, president of Clarus. “Our intent is to expand product penetration for both MAXTRAX and Rhino-Rack brands across markets as we see a substantial opportunity in continuing to build our overlanding platform.”

Founded in 2005 by Brad McCarthy, MAXTRAX is considered the creator of the vehicle recovery board. MAXTRAX has developed a product lineup consisting of high-quality vehicle recovery and extraction tracks, including its original MAXTRAX MKII recovery track. All MAXTRAX vehicle recovery tracks are manufactured in Australia using its proprietary, Australian-sourced, engineering-grade and fiber-reinforced nylon. MAXTRAX currently sells its products around the world to distributors, retailers, government agencies, third-party e-commerce sites and through its own website.

“Two decades ago, I got my 4WD bogged on a remote north Queensland beach. As the tide came in, it was almost washed away despite me having all the traditional recovery equipment onboard, and plenty of previous vehicle recovery experience. After this incident, I sought to create an easy-to-use vehicle recovery extraction device. After countless trials and four years of testing, we created the gold-standard of high-quality vehicle recovery and extraction track, and named it MAXTRAX, as in MAXimum TRAXion and Mac’s (McCarthy’s) Tracks,” states McCarthy. “We are excited to join Clarus, a partner that shares our commitment to offering outdoor enthusiasts the best products for their adventures and has a track record of growing successful brands whilst retaining the MAXTRAX brand DNA and ethos of only producing the absolute best products possible.”

www.maxtrax.com.au

Posted in Industry, Mobility, Press Release | 6 Comments »

Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Completes Handover of HX 8×8 Heavy Recovery Vehicles to New Zealand Defence Force

Sunday, December 12th, 2021

Rheinmetall is pleased to announce the official handover of three HX 8×8 Heavy Recovery Vehicles to the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) at an official ceremony on November 25th 2021 at the Trentham Military Camp in Wellington, New Zealand.

Colonel Ben Bagley, Director of Land Domain for NZDF attended the ceremony to accept handover of the vehicles from Marty Roelofs, New Zealand Manager at Rheinmetall.

Mr Gary Stewart, Managing Director Rheinmetall Defence Australia, had planned to personally attend this ceremony to mark its importance however was hampered by COVID travel restrictions.

“Although it is very disappointing not to be back in New Zealand for this important event marking the joint achievement of the handover of the HX 8×8 Heavy Recovery Vehicles, we are still very proud of this milestone,” Mr. Stewart said.

“The HX 8×8 Heavy Recovery Vehicle is another example of our commitment to providing sustainable design, development and manufacturing that delivers world leading products and services to the NZDF.”

“Delivery of this enhanced recovery capability, complementing the already delivered Medium-heavy Operational Vehicles fleet, in the midst of global COVID challenges is a testament to the relationship between Rheinmetall and the NZDF.”

The successful delivery of the vehicles to the NZDF provides the New Zealand Army with important new capabilities, with the HX 8×8 Heavy Recovery Vehicles having enhanced recovery and mobility capabilities specifically developed to meet the current and future operational needs of the NZDF.

The purchase of the HX 8×8 adds to the in-service medium and heavy operational vehicle fleet with NZDF. The Medium-heavy Operational Vehicles (MHOV) fleet which was supplied by Rheinmetall has had significant use already with NZDF, in training, operations and disaster relief both in New Zealand and offshore.

The HX 8×8 Heavy Recovery Vehicles delivered to the NZDF are the first in the world to use the Integrated Armoured Swap Cabin which allows easy configuration of the vehicles to suit the operational need. Rheinmetall will also provide a dedicated training team to conduct initial training on the vehicle with the NZDF.

At just 2.55 metres wide, the HX 8×8 Heavy Recovery Vehicle allows greater accessibility and operates exceptionally in difficult terrain with an ability to cross ditches of 1.4 metres wide and cross flooded areas of 1.5 metres in depth, as well as scale gradients of up to 60 per cent and side slopes of 30 per cent.

The HX 8×8 Heavy Recovery Vehicle is also able to operate in a range of radically different environments, operating in cold conditions as low as -32°C and in hot conditions all the way up to 49°C.

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