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New Vehicle-mounted Electronic Tech Enables Marines to Combat Threats

Thursday, March 14th, 2019

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. —

Marine Corps Systems Command plans to implement a new form of technology that allows the Marine Air-Ground Task Force to identify enemy activity.

The technology employs a vehicle-borne tool that enables Marines to discern what happens inside the electromagnetic spectrum. It connects several independent electronic capabilities into a single unit and allows Marines to manage threats and reactions from a central location.

“Marines are going to be able to make decisions on what they are seeing,” said Lt. Col. Thomas Dono, a team lead in MCSC’s Command Elements Systems.

Marines currently use systems to counter IEDs that block signals used by adversaries to remotely detonate explosive devices. The new technology is a man-packable and vehicle-mounted system, which will be able to be deployed on any Marine vehicle.

“This emergent technology combines a number of current capabilities into one system, thereby reducing the need for additional training and logistic support to manage multiple systems,” said Col. Dave Burton, program manager for Intelligence Systems at MCSC.

Once fielded, the system will enhance situational awareness on the battlefield.

“We will be able to do all of the functions of similar systems as well as sense and then display what is going on in the electronic spectrum,” said Dono. “Then we can communicate that to Marines for their decision-making process.”

MCSC is taking an evolutionary approach that allows the command to field the equipment faster and then gradually improve the capability as time progresses, Dono said. As the technology evolves, the Marine Corps can make incremental improvements as needed.

The Corps will work with Marines to test a variety of displays that track the electromagnetic spectrum, looking into each display’s user interface. The command can then determine if improvements must be made to ensure usability.

“It’s similar to what Apple does with the iPhone,” explained Dono. “They have many different displays and they want to make it natural and intuitive, so it’s not something that’s clunky, confusing and has to be learned.”

MCSC plans to field the vehicle-mounted system around the first quarter of 2020. When implemented, the equipment will continue to grow in capability to better prepare Marines to take on the digital battlefield.

“This system is important because it is going to allow Marines to operate inside the electromagnetic spectrum, make decisions and act upon that information,” said Dono. “That’s something they’ve never had to consider or think about in the past.”

By Matt Gonzales, MCSC Office of Public Affairs and Communication | Marine Corps Systems Command

Posted in Guest Post, MARCORSYSCOM, Mobility, USMC | 5 Comments »

Rheinmetall Submits Land 400 Phase 3 Bid in Australia

Sunday, March 10th, 2019

Lynx Infantry Fighting Vehicle and sovereign military vehicle industrial capability offered

Rheinmetall is pleased to announce the company has lodged a bid in response to the Australian Army’s Land 400 Phase 3 – Mounted Close Combat Capability Request For Tender (RFT).

Under the tender, the Australian Army is offered the Lynx Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) with the Lance turret, Lynx Manouevre Support Vehicle (MSV), an established and growing network of suppliers across Australia, continued use of the Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence in Queensland, and a comprehensive support and training system.

The Lynx IFV and the Lynx MSV have been designed and tested to meet the demanding requirements of the Australian Army, NATO and NATO allies. Lynx establishes a vehicle system with unmatched levels of survivability, mobility, lethality, knowledge, and growth that will excel in close combat operations.

The modular architecture of the Lynx also delivers significant cost benefits by drawing on Rheinmetall’s expertise and extensive development of contemporary combat vehicles. This results in a system that requires only two Lynx base vehicle configurations to achieve the nine roles sought under the Australian Army’s RFT. The modular system architecture also covers the four additional roles sought in the Australia Army’s Request for Information, including a mortar variant, a logistics variant, and a protected amphibious Lynx.

Lynx provides protection against the full spectrum of threats including blast, IED, direct and indirect fire, cluster munitions, and anti-tank guided missiles. With enhanced lethality and the mobility of a main battle tank, Lynx will enable Army to cope with the complex nature of warfighting in diverse environments and against a range of adaptive threats.

Rheinmetall’s Global Head of Vehicle Systems, Ben Hudson said, “the significant protected volume within the Lynx vehicle is unmatched in this class, and ensures the three crew and a minimum of six dismounts can conduct effective close combat operations while providing unrivalled growth and flexibility for the future.”

“The Australian Army deserves an Infantry Fighting Vehicle that will ensure their soldiers can fight, survive and win on the modern battlefield,” Mr Hudson said.

“If selected for Land 400 Phase 3, the Lynx will provide the Australian Army with a future-proof vehicle solution that can rapidly transition into service and be easily supported through life.”

The Rheinmetall Lance turret is contracted to be delivered to the Australian Army under Land 400 Phase 2, and will be manufactured in Brisbane for the local and export markets. The digital Lance turret provides the crew with sensor systems, advanced automatic tracking and targeting capabilities, and weapon integrated battle management all in a connected and digitally enabled platform. This common electronic architecture provides enhanced combat effectiveness for the crew, generating a range of scalable and precise effects to deal with threats on the current and future battlefield.

Rheinmetall is creating an enduring Australian capability with the construction of the Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence (MILVEHCOE) near Brisbane. By the time Land 400 Phase 3 is contracted, the MILVEHCOE and its supporting national military vehicle industry network of Australian suppliers will be qualified for all of the common systems and components required for the Rheinmetall Lynx and Lance solution.

Rheinmetall Defence Australia’s Managing Director, Gary Stewart said, “the Australian Army will benefit from the Lynx IFV that will be designed, built and supported from the MILVEHCOE, with an expanded Australia-wide military vehicle industrial network.”

“This national approach will directly reduce the total cost of ownership for Defence, create long term highly skilled regional jobs, and deliver enduring economic benefit through a strong sovereign military vehicle industry,” Mr Stewart said.

Components and designs already incorporated into the Lynx platform are supplied from companies located around Australia like Supashock in Adelaide, Cablex in Melbourne, Bisalloy Steels in Wollongong, and Milspec Manufacturing in Albury.

Ongoing investment by Rheinmetall in research and product development directly contributes to Australian Lynx and Lance designs and foundation technologies. Coupled with targeted global opportunities, this creates new export orders for Australian industry.

Posted in International, Mobility, Press Release | Comments Off on Rheinmetall Submits Land 400 Phase 3 Bid in Australia

You Need A Halftrack In Your Life

Wednesday, February 27th, 2019

Are you planning for the Armageddon, the impending Second Civil War of Blue vs. Red, and/or World War III: The Final Battle against the Soviet Machine? YES!

Do you need something that is not susceptible to EMP interference? YES!

Does it need to be Armored, tracked, and capable of mounting weapons? YES!

Does it need to be available now? YES YES YES! You cannot plan too early.

THESE M3 HALF TRACKS HAVE EVERYTHING YOU ARE LOOKING FOR. GET THOSE TAX RETURN CHECKS READY!

controlleddynamicsgroup.com

Posted in As Seen On Facebook, Mobility | 4 Comments »

Mack Defense Enters Production Vehicle Testing Phase of Heavy Dump Truck Contract

Friday, February 22nd, 2019

ALLENTOWN, PA (Feb. 18, 2019) – Mack Defense recently started production of five Mack® Granite®-based M917A3 Heavy Dump Trucks (HDT) as part of the Production Vehicle Testing (PVT) phase of its $296 million contract with the U.S. Army for armored and armor-capable HDTs. Once completed, the trucks will enter 40 weeks of rigorous durability testing at the U.S. Army’s Aberdeen Test Center this summer.

“Our production team and suppliers are excited to begin building these next generation HDTs for the U.S. Army,” said David Hartzell, president of Mack Defense. “We’re confident the M917A3 will provide the Army the legendary durability and toughness Mack customers have come to depend on.”

Seeking the next generation of M917 vehicles to offer increased protection levels, higher payload and improved mobility, the U.S. Army solicited bids for new HDTs in June 2017. The contract, awarded to Mack Defense in May 2018, allows for Mack Defense to produce armor-capable or armored HDTs with deliveries through May 2025. The trucks will increase operational effectiveness and readiness, and will support mobility, counter mobility, survivability and sustainment operations for the Joint Forces in areas of the world with austere infrastructures and little or no host nation support.

“We have had regular meetings with our U.S. Army partners in preparation for the PVT phase of the contract, and we look forward to providing a tough, dependable truck that will meet their requirements,” said Jack Terefinko, HDT program manager for Mack Defense.

Based on the civilian Mack Granite model, Mack Defense engineers optimized the M917A3 HDT to meet the current needs of the U.S. Army, while allowing for evolving requirements and future growth. With heavier-duty rear axles, all-wheel drive and increased suspension ride height, the M917A3 is capable of meeting the demanding payload and mobility requirements set by the U.S. Army HDT program.

www.mackdefense.com

Posted in Mobility, Press Release | 5 Comments »

Brigantes Presents – High Angles Solutions – Black Crows Orb Freebird Militairi Review: (with a Touring binding set up)

Wednesday, February 20th, 2019

The Militairi ski is a great Intermediate/advanced touring ski. Within the Touring category it is an ‘all-rounder’; at 91mm underfoot it is light and manoeuvrable both up and downhill and the surface area gives enough float in soft snow. At 179cm long it is a good compromise of manoeuvrability and speed. With a turn radius of 18m it is turns quicker than your average stiffer ski.

The main differences (other than the colour) between the Militairi and standard Orb Freebird is the full titanial plate and thicker edges. The full-length plate makes the ski 5% stiffer which gives it more strength and helps military users who are carrying more weight on their backs; it should prevent bindings being ripped out of the ski. It also helps the ski punch through in changeable snow conditions. The thicker edges make the ski tougher preventing less edges being popped and gives the ski more edge tuning and longevity.

When skied the Militairi ski has slightly more grunt than the civilian Orb Freebird, it needs to be pushed to get the most out of it; passenger skiers should treat with care.

The stiffer titanial plate on the Militairi gives it more torsional rigidity which allows it to perform well when carved on piste and gives it more pop in fresh snow. The stiffer tails should be respected, back seated skiers may find that the ski propels them forward, which can be a positive for advanced skiers but not so much for nervous beginners. The stiffer plate does make the ski more responsive on short terms and there is no chatter at high speeds like on the standard Orb Freebird.

In summary, a ski that will please a lot of people as it punches well above its weight category in terms of downhill performance and yet is light and nimble on the uphill.

Reviewed by Ben Shephard – BASI ski instructor and ex Army Alpine Ski Racer.

Posted in Guest Post, Mobility, Mountaineering | 4 Comments »

Jankel achieves ‘production ready’ status from its Middle Eastern production facility of their latest generation HUNTER Tactical Intervention Vehicle (TIV)

Thursday, February 14th, 2019

World-class specialist in design and production of high-specification armoured vehicles and survivability systems, Jankel, has announced the achievement of ‘production ready’ status for their latest generation HUNTER Tactical Intervention Vehicle (TIV) in preparation for the imminent manufacture of another major order from an undisclosed customer in the Asia Pacific region. The vehicles will be built at JLVM, Jankel’s Jordanian facility, a Joint Venture with KADDB. This announcement coincides with IDEX 2019 taking place 17-21 February at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), where Jankel is exhibiting on stand number 05-C09.

Jankel’s focus for IDEX will be further sales of their Counter Terror and Special Forces vehicles to complement their numerous vehicle fleets already in service in the Middle East. Jankel will also be promoting their survivability systems, including their range of BLASTech mitigation seats.

This latest order for the HUNTER TIV has been re-engineered to have increased internal and stowage capacity. The vehicle has also received automotive improvements to meet the exact specifications demanded by the customer, delivering versatility, maneuverability and protection for Internal Security missions.

Jankel has enjoyed considerable success in the Middle and Far Eastern regions in recent years. The establishment of the JLVM Joint Venture in Jordan has enabled regional manufacture of vehicles to meet the demanding environmental and capability requirements of this wider geographical area. To date, Jankel has over 350 vehicles in service across 11 countries in the Middle East and neighbouring regions, as well as an established and comprehensive support services network that expands across 14 different regional sites, ensuring the customer can always maximise the capability on offer.

Dan Crosby, Commercial Director at Jankel said: “The Middle and Far Eastern regions continue to be strategically important markets for Jankel and we are glad to announce that we’re ready to put the latest generation HUNTER TIV into volume production for the first time. We’re proud of the fact that we can build vehicles in the region using our Jordanian facility and sell to surrounding countries and the wider-reaching markets beyond”. He added: “IDEX is an important show for us that will provide Jankel with an excellent opportunity to network further and showcase our products to countries that would not normally be so easy to reach.”

www.jankel.com

Posted in Mobility, Press Release | Comments Off on Jankel achieves ‘production ready’ status from its Middle Eastern production facility of their latest generation HUNTER Tactical Intervention Vehicle (TIV)

Jankel Announces Another Contract Award to Supply Blast Attenuation Seats to US MRAP Manufacturer

Monday, February 11th, 2019

World-class specialist in design and production of high-specification armored vehicles and survivability systems, US-based Jankel Tactical Systems, has been awarded 3 contracts to supply their BLASTech mitigation seats to a US based MRAP provider. The contracts have a multi-million dollar combined value. This announcement coincides with the Tactical Wheeled Vehicle Conference (TWVC), taking place in Monterey, California, 03-05 February 2019.

Jankel Tactical Systems is the market’s most well-established Blast Attenuating Seat leader in North America. Under these contracts, Jankel will be delivering MK 2.5 BLASTech X900194 commander seats and X900003 troop seats in support of MRAP based programs. Jankel is pleased to continue to support the survivability upgrade on these tactical wheeled vehicles that have now had Jankel’s MK 2.5 seats fitted for almost a decade. These latest orders will be delivered by the middle of the 2019 calendar year.

Jankel will be attending the TWVC in preparation for the release of its latest and most advanced MK 4.0 BLASTech blast mitigating seating line. The MK 4.0 will feature the same battle-proven mitigation technology that has made Jankel the market leader in blast mitigation seating. The new seats have been developed to be lighter in weight making them more suitable for the current evolving tactical wheeled vehicle market. Jankel also expect the new MK 4.0 seat to be more competitive in terms of price than the existing MK 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 designs, while delivering increased capability.

Cody Baker, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Jankel Tactical Systems said: “The USA continues to be a strategically important market for Jankel and we are glad to announce these new contracts with a long-standing customer, further developing an already strong supplier relationship with one of the biggest defense vehicle manufacturers in the USA.” He added: “The TWVC event will provide Jankel with an excellent opportunity to network further with other global OEMs operating in the sector as we work towards the launch of our new MK 4.0 seat.”

www.jankel.com

Posted in Contracts, Mobility, Press Release | Comments Off on Jankel Announces Another Contract Award to Supply Blast Attenuation Seats to US MRAP Manufacturer

The Armored Group, LLC Introduces its Newest Vehicle, the Terrier Armored Personnel Carrier

Thursday, January 31st, 2019

New Terrier APC features the highest level of personnel protection and unparalleled mobility in any climate or setting

(Phoenix, AZ – (January 28, 2019) The Armored Group, LLC (TAG), a leading worldwide provider of armored vehicles, has just introduced its newest law enforcement vehicle, the Terrier APC. The Terrier APC developed by the TAG Research and Development Team, offers a large payload capacity for its size as well as the highest level of protection for a vehicle in its class and price range with STANAG II applique option. The vehicle will be used by military, police, SWAT, regional response teams and non-governmental organizations.

The Terrier APC holds up to eight officers (2+6 in individual MIL-STD seats); the optional bench seat can accommodate up to ten officers (2+8) depending on the size of operators and amount of gear. The vehicle was designed with the end-users in mind; to protect those who are in dangerous operational environments.

Terrier APC Features:

Some of the key features of the Terrier APC model include:
• Full Protection against Kinetic Energy Weapons conforming to STANAG 4569 Level 1
• Heavy Duty Suspension & Axles
• Upgraded Tires & Brakes (for better off-road capability)
• Category-Leading Ground Clearance
• UK Military Grade Locks & Heavy-Duty Hinges
• Conveniently Placed High Visibility Gun Ports
• 3 Doors and Roof Escape Hatch
• Crew Cab or 5 Door Option
• 5100kg Curb Weight (Standard Protection); 1000kg Payload; 6100kg Combat Weight
• Modern LED Headlights & Standard Military Convoy Lights
• 5-Speed Manual Transmission
• Diesel 195 HP High Sulfur 1VD-FTV Toyota 4.5L V8
• NATO Standard Slave Starting System
• TAG Exclusive Flip Forward Armored Front Clip System
• Hydraulically Assisted Recirculating Ball Steering
• Rear HVAC System as standard
• Auxiliary service battery with smart isolator switch and battery monitor

Optional Equipment Includes:
• Additional parking AC powered by external 120 / 220VAC while the engine is off
• Public address system
• Acoustic deterring LRAD system
• Intercom
• Alternator upgrade
• Blast attenuating seats
• Interior weapon mounts
• VHF/UHF communication system; MF/HF communications system
• GPS
• DVR
• GSM-based live video monitoring system
• Tracking system (depends on deployment region)
• Smoke grenade launchers
• Multiple launch systems for smoke grenades
• Roof turret with a ring bearing and split hatch
• Remote controlled weapon station
• Gunshot detection system
• Remote controlled searchlights
• Forward-looking thermal camera
• Reverse day/night camera
• Perimeter day/night cameras
• Outboard telescopic mast
• IR driving and convoy lights
• Overpressure air filtration system
• Semi-automatic tire inflation system
• Ballistic protection upgrade to STANAG 4569 Level 2
• Fire suppression systems
• Power inverters
• Winch
• Ballistic skip round shields
• Emergency lighting systems
• Interior compartment additional cooling fans
• Computer workstations
• Rescue medic/trauma pack with backboard/litter

Terrier APC:

The Terrier APC is built using a reinforced/militarized Toyota VDJ79 truck chassis, and COTS components. The vehicle can be built to B6, NIJ-III or STANAG 4569 Level 1 ballistic protection standards and is powered by a 195 HP high sulfur 1VD-FTV Toyota 4.5L V8 diesel and readily available in LHD and RHD configurations. Using upgraded axles, clutch and a reinforced frame as well as oversized super single wheels, the vehicle offers excellent mobility and a high payload capacity making it a superior choice in a variety of dangerous scenarios.

“The new Terrier APC offers the highest level of protection in combat and fire support situations and in mission-specific transport and logistics roles. The Terrier APC is an extremely versatile vehicle with numerous optional upgrades, so agencies requiring the vehicle can customize it to truly meet their individual needs,” said Robert Pazderka, President and Founder of TAG. “Because of its availability and price, it is a smart, effective option for agencies that need to keep their teams safe and secure in dangerous situations.”

For more information, please visit www.armoredcars.com.

Posted in Mobility, Press Release | 1 Comment »