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Kia Showcases New Defense Vehicle Technologies at IDEX 2021 Defense Exhibition

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2021

– Kia displays Light Tactical Cargo Truck and Bare Chassis concepts at the IDEX defense exhibition in the UAE

– Unique design optimized for military use offering superior mobility, durability and functionality

– Modular platform can underpin mobile workshops, communication hubs and troop and cargo carrying capabilities

– Four-wheel drive, independent suspension and run-flat tyres ensures enhanced usability in harsh environments

Kia Corporation has showcased two light tactical defense vehicle concepts at the 2021 International Defense Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) in the UAE, the largest international defense exhibition in the Middle East and Africa.

Kia has been supplying its light tactical vehicles to the South Korean army since 2016, becoming the standard-bearer for vehicle quality in the country’s military operation system. The new four-seater Light Tactical Cargo Truck concept displayed at IDEX adopts a bold, commanding design and has been equipped with a cargo container for transporting troops alongside diverse armory. Kia expects the added visual appeal and usability to stimulate further demand for its military vehicles.

Together with the Light Tactical Cargo Truck concept at IDEX, Kia is displaying the vehicle’s Bare Chassis. With the body removed, the bare chassis showcases the truck’s powertrain and basic frame, providing a glimpse of the platform’s scalability as a basis for a range of armored vehicles. Kia is actively developing vehicles based on the Bare Chassis for clients’ eclectic taste around the world.

Ik-tae Kim, Vice President for Kia’s Special Vehicle Division said: “Our participation at IDEX 2021 is an opportunity to promote Kia’s latest developments in the design of future defense vehicles. Both concepts on display have been developed to be highly flexible and durable, with the capability to be used in some of the world’s harshest environments.”

Kia’s involvement at IDEX is its largest to-date, with the region being seen as a key strategic military vehicle market. Kia first participated at IDEX in 2015, with this year’s exhibition space shared with Kia’s affiliate, Hyundai Rotem Co.

Kia Light Tactical Cargo Truck
Kia has developed the Light Tactical Cargo Truck concept in close cooperation between the Defense Acquisition Program Administration. The vehicle’s modular chassis has enabled Kia to offer standard and long-wheel base variants alongside armored and unarmored versions for purposes including tactical commanding and reconnaissance, weapon installment, target observation and multi-purpose for supporting.

Differentiated by its unique design, the four-person Light Tactical Cargo Truck has been optimized for use by military forces by offering superior mobility, outstanding durability and a high level of functionality. The unarmored long wheelbase design features a superstructure that can be tailored to underpin different structures such as a cargo box, a mobile workshop and a communications centre. The vehicle can also carry ten fully-armed soldiers and up to three tons of cargo in the vehicle’s rear compartment.

The Kia Light Tactical Cargo Truck is powered by a 225 horsepower Euro 5 diesel engine, with power sent to all four wheels via state-of-the-art 8-speed automatic transmission. The truck also features an independent suspension system, air conditioning, a limited-slip differential, run-flat tyres and an electro-magnetic interference system.

Posted in Armor, International, Mobility, Press Release | 7 Comments »

MULTI SEAL Tire Sealant

Monday, February 8th, 2021

MULTI SEAL®, the world leading tire sealant company, is stepping into the defense market to provide military end users and fleet managers a cutting-edge product to prevent down time in the field in austere combat environments, maintenance hours and repair costs.

Established in founded in 1981, MULTI SEAL® products are manufactured in the United States specifically for applications in the industrial, agricultural, and power sports tire sealant market.

MULTI SEAL® decided to provide its product line for use in military application after being approached by Special Operations end users and combat developers for use in some of their Light Tactical All-Terrain Vehicles, such as the Polaris MRZR and MV850s, for long range desert mobility operations.

Tire punctures during mobility operations are a huge inhibitor when time and exposure are a factor for successful completion of the mission. MULTI SEAL® reduces the amount of time on the ground to repair a tire in the field. It also provides a longer and faster working sealant for use in combat support, construction and admin vehicles being utilized in combat theaters. A great force multiplier for fleet sustainment operations.

MULTI SEAL® is not a standard tire sealant. It differs from its competitors due to it being a glycol-based Kevlar® fiber infused sealant instead of an adhesive. This provides benefits to the end user for many reasons. A modern tire sealant is a suspension of synthetic fibers and fillers in a thickened ethylene or propylene glycol (anti-freeze) and water “carrier system,” which allows the fibers and fillers to move within the tire in liquid form.

When a puncture occurs, (almost always on the bottom of the tire where the sealant pools when rotating at low and moderate speeds), the air pressure in the tire propels the suspended fibers and fillers into the puncture where the fibers begin to snag on the rubber. In very short order (1 to 3 seconds), the fibers form a tangle in the puncture which stops the escaping air. As the tire rotates, the rubber surrounding the wound flexes and packs more fibers into the wound with each rotation until no more fibers will fit. This is where the fillers come into play. The fillers are extremely small, 2 particles which pack in-between the fibers in the plug, like the mud in a beaver dam, to form a permanent airtight seal that will last the life of the tire.

Based on its unique formula, MULTI SEAL® provides several other key factors that differentiate it from other tire sealants, which they are looking to bring to the military warfighters.

-Glycol based non adhesive formula allows the product to be rinsed out of a tire with just water for when a tire is changed off a rim reducing mess and added work time to repairs for maintainers.

-Its use of Kevlar fibers which act as a tire plug without the need to manually install once the tire is flat, smaller puncture will seal themselves and larger punctures just need to be found, then the refill the tire with the puncture at the six o’clock position allowing gravity to bring the sealant to the puncture.

-Its fillers that form an air tight seal around the Kevlar fibers preventing air from slipping out to create a slow leak.

-Suspension stability allowing the Kevlar fibers to move freely inside the tire, to the location of the puncture, as well as the fact that the fiber will not separate from the sealant like most adhesive tire sealants will.

-Freeze protection. Being a glycol-based product, MULTI SEAL® will continue to perform in -20 to -30 degree weather without freezing of the product eliminating chance of tire vibration

-Inertness of MULTI SEAL® prevents it from chemically reacting to any part to the tire or cure when exposed to air. Ideal for austere real-world environments.

-Non-corrosive, due to the use of the propylene glycol in the sealant, preventing any rust from forming inside the tire or on its hardware or tire presser sensors.

Whatever the application, whether SOF long range ground mobility operations or fleet sustainment by maintainers to keep the service and support vehicles rolling, MULTI SEAL® looks forward to providing a reliable dependable product for our nation’s warfighters.

Defense related questions:
Thomas@blacksidesolutions.com

P: 904-521-9556

Posted in Guest Post, Mobility | 6 Comments »

Jankel Achieves Final Design Review (FDR) Milestone with Pickup Variant of Their Armoured Toyota LC200

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2021

Jankel, a world-leader in the design and manufacture of high-specification defence, security and NGO protection systems, has achieved an important Final Design Review (FDR) milestone with a twin-cab pickup variant of their Hot Formed Armoured Toyota LC200. The vehicle has been designed for an undisclosed customer. With the Toyota LC200 due to go out of production in 2021, Jankel are highlighting this conversion as an example of how they can adapt any vehicle to meet customer needs and fill specific capability gaps in the specialist protected vehicle market. With that in mind, the pickup design has the potential to become an after-market modification carried out on in-service LC200’s.

Partnering with Australian Expedition Vehicles (AEV), Jankel has integrated AEV’s existing and proven pickup design with the also proven and certified, Jankel armoured LC200 base platform. Bringing together the strengths of both designs into one offering has resulted in the armoured variant maintaining its protection level whilst gaining from an additional 650mm in wheelbase. This combined with a heavy duty rear axle upgrade delivers a significant increase in Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM-5800kg) and payload (up to 1500kg depending on specification), whilst retaining the existing protected crew-cab dimensions and space. The technique of lengthening the chassis and incorporating the modular and adaptable flatbed pickup pod is easily adapted to other commonly armoured light vehicles.

In addition to the increased payload and the usable flat 1900mm x 1700mm load bed space, the vehicle can be configured to deliver a number of automotive and user-orientated tactical capability enhancements such as: run-flats; improved brakes; tuned suspension; fire suppression system; door deadbolts; escape hatch; gun ports; weapons mounts; tactical lighting and a PA/siren. The lightweight flat-bed can be delivered with a canopy or a hard-top and includes folding/removable sides and integrated modular storage bins. Following FDR, Jankel will be undertaking validation tests to include elements of PAS 301 and expects the new vehicle to be in production by July 2021.

Andrew Jankel, Chairman at Jankel Group said: “We’ve developed this new pickup variant of our Hot Formed Armoured LC200 as a result of receiving an order from an existing customer. As a first of its kind I can immediately see other users of armoured fleets becoming interested in similar conversions that add capability and flexibility, not available on the LC200 base platform”. He added: “Once again, our strategy to partner with OEM’s and specialist defence suppliers to deliver bespoke capability has resulted in the exact product our customer needs, driving mission success”.

jankel.com

Posted in Contracts, International, Mobility, Press Release | 2 Comments »

New USAF Defender SUVs Provide Cooler, Smoother Ride for Canines

Thursday, January 28th, 2021

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas (AFNS) —

The Air Force Security Forces Center’s vehicle program delivered the first of new military working dog patrol vehicles to Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, as part of their initiative to modernize Defender equipment across the Air Force.

The improvements from previous patrol vehicles is the result of AFSFC’s vehicle program’s input to the Federal Service Law Enforcement Vehicle Equipment Standardization initiative and is focused on keeping MWD handlers and canines mission-ready.

Security Forces members at Robins learned about the vehicle “hot dog” system, which automatically kicks in when the interior gets too hot for the canines. The full-size sport utility vehicles also have a more spacious interior that gives the dogs a more comfortable ride.

“These new vehicles are definitely an upgrade,” said Staff. Sgt. Matthew Cerulli, MWD handler with the 78th Security Forces Squadron. “I think the best thing is the ‘hot dog’ system, which, in case of an emergency, we have to leave our dog in the vehicle and it gets too hot, an alarm will go off, the windows will roll down and the A/C will crank on to help keep the canines cool.

“However, I think the dogs’ favorite thing is the additional room. We have some large canines and in this new vehicle they can get up and stretch out as needed,” Cerulli added.

“AFSFC’s Vehicle Program seeks efficiencies in vehicle procurement, decreases redundancies and streamlines processes to improve law enforcement readiness,” said Master Sgt. Michael Roth, Security Forces vehicle program manager at AFSFC.

Prior to the FEDSLEVES program, units sourced their own funds to purchase the necessary equipment, which required local vendors to upfit vehicles after they arrived at the installation.

“This program provides security forces units with vehicles that are standardized with pre-installed equipment packages,” Roth said. “We also provide funding for (other) equipment in these vehicles, allowing them to go on patrol immediately. We’re saving the units $17,700 per patrol vehicle and $19,500 per MWD patrol vehicle, so we’re saving the unit both time and money.”

Defenders at Robins AFB and their canines are rolling out in these ready-to-go SUVs.

“These vehicles are a big step forward in keeping our mission ready here at Robins Air Force Base,” said Tech. Sgt. Seth Wilson, 78th SFS kennel master. “Our mission, along with the military working dogs, is to keep everyone on base safe, and these new vehicles allow us to focus more on accomplishing that.”

Additional improvements include a radio prep package, which allows operators to plug and play their current radio systems, an upgraded emergency lighting and public address system, and increased weapons storage in the rear cargo area.

“These new MWD vehicles are a product of the hard work of the Air Force Security Forces Center’s Vehicle Program team to modernize the fleet and keep Defenders and their canines mission ready,” Roth said.

Security Forces units can expect to receive the new vehicles as their current ones reach their end-of-life cycle, Roth added.

Story by Malcolm McClendon, Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center Public Affairs

Photos by Joseph Mather

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, K9, Mobility | 4 Comments »

Hydratek – D2488B Amphibious Vehicle

Wednesday, January 20th, 2021

The D2488B is the largest and most capable amphibious vehicle produced by Hydratrek, Inc. It is a full-time tracked vehicle with seating for up to 8 persons. It’s powered by a 115HP Kubota diesel engine and operates via a 2-speed hydrostatic drive system. Rear water propulsion provides the vehicle with maneuverability while floating in deep water ways. If you routinely deal with wetlands, marshes, flooded bottomlands, snow, ice, waterways, hurricanes, river floods, or anything else related to mud, muck, and water, Hydratrek is an ideal means of transportation into and out of these areas safely and effectively. This applies for commercial, law enforcement, and recreational operations and activities. Each Hydratrek is hand made in the USA (Tennessee) and some customization is available. Standard options include winches, light bars, maximum seating, full cab, heating and cooling, cargo racks, power investors, access ladders, windshield options, dual batteries, and battery charger.

hydratrek.com/d2488b

Posted in Mobility, Press Release, SHOT Show | Comments Off on Hydratek – D2488B Amphibious Vehicle

Bundeswehr Orders a Further 48 Heavy Tractor Trailers from Rheinmetall – Contract Worth €41 million

Thursday, December 24th, 2020

The German Bundeswehr has contracted with Rheinmetall to supply it with additional heavy tractor trailers with a 70-tonne payload. Delivery of a further 24 unprotected heavy tractor trailers – dubbed the SaZgM 70t mil in German military parlance – is to take place in 2021, with a further 24 to follow in 2022. In total, the order is worth €41 million. The tractor trailers are primarily used for transporting heavy armoured vehicles such as the Leopard 2 main battle tank.

In 2018 the Bundeswehr concluded a framework contract with Rheinmetall for the delivery of 137 SaZgM 70t mil trucks. This contract runs for seven years, with a potential total value of €122 million with valued added tax. A total of 32 vehicles were delivered in 2019 and 2020.

The Rheinmetall HX81 SaZgM is powered by an eight-cylinder, 680 hp diesel engine. This enables the high-mobility all-wheel drive truck to attain a top speed of 89 km/h, and to handle inclines of 60 percent. Its permissible gross train weight comes to around 130 tonnes. The HX81 SaZgM features the same driver’s cab as the Rheinmetall UTF, the Bundeswehr’s family of unprotected trucks. If required, the cab can be exchanged for a protected version. The vehicle also comes with a two-winch system made by the Rotzler company, in which each winch has a tractive force of twenty tonnes.

The HX81 expands the German military’s family of heavy transport vehicles. Thus, the unprotected HX81 complements the protected heavy-duty Mammut (‘Mammoth’), which was also supplied by RMMV. Given Germany’s obligation to provide the rapid reaction NATO Very High Readiness Joint Task Force in 2023 (VJTF 2023), being able to transport heavy combat vehicles is a key capability.

Posted in Contracts, International, Mobility, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Toyota Unveils Ultimate Overlanding Rig: The TRD-Sport Trailer

Tuesday, December 22nd, 2020

When in Tow Behind Your Favorite Toyota Truck or SUV, This Concept Trailer Packs Just About Everything You’ll Ever Need

PLANO, Texas (December 21, 2020) – Toyota, a brand known for its deep off-roading roots and rugged reliability, today unveiled the TRD-Sport Trailer, a creative ‘basecamp’ solution concept vehicle allowing overlanding explorers to quickly set up camp and then continue on their remote adventure.

In a challenging 2020, Toyota opted for a two-wave strategy to celebrate pure performance, both on and off road, and the TRD-Sport Trailer helps anchor the company’s second wave of SEMA builds. Toyota previously unveiled four builds in its wave one presentation at SEMA360, held Nov. 2, 2020.

“Overlanding has been picking up steam for quite some time, but 2020 just put it over the top,” said Ed Laukes, group vice president – Toyota Division Marketing. “Given Toyota’s solid off-road credentials and reputation, we thought it would be really cool to create the ultimate overlanding companion to our pickup and SUV lineup.”

Overlanding is an extremely popular and growing trend, providing adventures in a year when many have faced challenges taking traditional vacations. The TRD-Sport Trailer’s inspiration began when Bob Kupina, Senior Program Manager, Toyota Motor North America Research and Development, saw a trailer made from a Toyota Tacoma at the Overland Expo WEST in Flagstaff, Arizona. Kupina and team got the ball rolling with a cool base concept, but then Toyota turned to Marty Schwerter and the team at Motorsports Garage to take the concept to the next level… and beyond.

Toyota really saw the Tacoma bed as a perfect overlanding platform. It’s well built and offers a lot of space, giving the ability to take things to the extreme. All the while, the plan was to make the best use of the available space, adding all the creature comforts while maintaining a low center of gravity and a great approach angle.

The TRD-Sport Trailer features a scissor-lift that raises an innovative rigid platform several feet out of the bed. There’s a Yakima four-person tent with an awning and fly fishing-pole holders, a custom-built toilet and trash can, a refrigerator, a hot water heater, a shower with curtain, a generator, an Optima Yellow Top battery, a 16-gallon fresh water reservoir tank, a 15-gallon grey water holding tank, and a slide-out sink and stove. And that’s just for starters!

Schwerter worked closely with partners Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s to make sure the TRD-Sport Trailer was properly equipped with important outdoor gear like fishing poles, tackle and nets; waders and wading boots; coffee mugs, cookware, and other essentials. When fully deployed, the TRD-Sport Trailer creates a campsite with ample room, and to illuminate the surroundings the team added multiple RIGID A-Series Accessory LED Lights that pack a powerful punch while drawing an extremely low amount of power. When lower light is needed, say for star gazing, explorers can switch to lower-level lighting thanks to multiple Yakima SunBelt light strips.

The package rolls on TRD Pro wheels fitted with General Grabber X3 285/70/17 rubber. Cripwerx Engineering assisted with the build, and KC’s Paint Shop painted the creation using BASF paint mixed to match the Tacoma’s OEM Cement Gray color and added custom graphics provided by The Decal Source.

All the TRD-Sport Trailer’s conveniences allow explorers to extend their adventures in comfort. The end result is an overlanding multi-tool that pairs perfectly with Toyota’s pickup and SUV lineup.

Posted in Mobility, Off-Duty, Press Release | 7 Comments »

Dutch Marine Corps Fields New Pulk Transport Sleds for Arctic

Thursday, December 17th, 2020

This release was provided by the Korps Mariniers or Dutch Marine Corps.

During the upcoming Joint Arctic Training on the Northflank in Norway, the first new Pulks will be deployed at the squadron level. Pulk is the English term for a short low-hanging small sleigh and is pronounced ?? pooluk” The Pulk offers good opportunities for Marines to take their equipment.

Arctic

Marine Corps units take in arctic conditions a lot of equipment such as (extra) clothing, fuel and tents. They need these items to survive at low temperatures. As a result, Marines are now carrying a heavy backpack while moving on skis in snowy areas. An additional disadvantage of a complete package on the man is that the function of the worn clothing is not fully utilized (breathing capacity).

Trials

After various tests, during previous winter training with Pulks, 4 different types have been chosen. The 120 cm General Purpose Machine Gun Pulk is directly suitable as a weapons platform. The 135 cm is the operator Pulk and suitable for every sierra operator, a 150 cm Pulk for every MAG helper and a 170 cm variant for general use of the various troops of a squadron.

Cooperation and guarantee

In collaboration with the Weapons System Management (WSM) section of the Group Commander Operational Units Marines (GC-OEM), the Clothing and Equipment (KL & OUT), and the Assortments Manager, have now been purchased for a squadron Pulks. Next year two more extraditions will follow, so that a fully Marine Combat Group will be equipped with new Pulks from then on.

Posted in Guest Post, International, Mobility, Mountaineering | 7 Comments »