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CANSEC 2024: Rheinmetall to Display its Complete Range of Mission Master Autonomous Vehicles for the Very First Time

Wednesday, May 29th, 2024

Rheinmetall is set to impress attendees at Canada’s foremost defence industry event by showcasing, for the very first time, all three Mission Master vehicle variants. The Mission Master SP, XT, as well as the very latest addition to the family, the CXT, will all be on display, allowing visitors to discover the unique capabilities of each vehicle.

In addition to its Uncrewed Ground Systems (UGSs), Rheinmetall will display its Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulator, so that delegates can test the vehicles first-hand in a virtual, yet realistic environment.

Rheinmetall will also present the MSU-GP 200T Air Start Unit (ASU), the Solar?Shield fabric, and the Polaris MRZR-D4 equipped with the PATH autonomy kit. Additional vehicle solutions designed in collaboration with partnering companies will also be on display at the outdoor booth.

Rheinmetall Mission Master family:

• The Mission Master SP is a compact UGS with a low-signature electric motor and amphibious capabilities, and therefore an invaluable asset when silence is a must.

• The larger Rheinmetall Mission Master CXT and XT vehicles can tackle ice and snow, as well as sandy, rocky, and mountainous topography. Their advanced amphibious capabilities allow them to float and swim while maintaining their full payload capacity of 1000 kg.

The CXT is slightly smaller than the XT and has hybrid propulsion, meaning it can silently transport heavy payloads.

The XT is the largest Mission Master vehicle and is diesel powered.

Rheinmetall PATH A-Kit: This world-leading AI-powered navigation system is installed on all Mission Master UGS vehicles and is agnostic, meaning it can drive almost any military and commercial vehicle. To demonstrate the agnostic capacity of the PATH A-Kit, Rheinmetall will display its light tactical MRZR-D4 vehicle from Polaris.

TAK integration: Rheinmetall offers an extensive Tactical Assault Kit (TAK) integration service, including the development of tailored plugins to meet the most specific needs. Visitors will be able to test the Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK), which is integrated on all Mission Master vehicles, first-hand at the indoor booth.

MSU-GP 200T: The MSU-GP 200T is the only turbine-powered ASU on the market. It is lighter to deploy and more compact than diesel engine units. Proven across the globe in extreme weather environments, the MSU-GP is both reliable and versatile. It can also be transported by air and aboard naval carriers. Visitors will be able to discover this unique solution at the outdoor booth.

SolarShield: Pronounced solar sigma shield, this simple and affordable solution is a patented fabric designed and tested by Defence Research and Development Canada, and selected to equip the Australian Defence Force’s new Redback IFV. It allows a significant solar heat load reduction on systems by natural air convection and artificial shadow. The SolarShield also allows multispectral signature management against thermal, visual, near infrared, radar, and ultraviolet detection. Visitors will be able to discover the SolareShield technology at the outdoor booth.

Common Heavy Equipment Replacement (CHER) project: Rheinmetall Canada will join forces with JCB and other OEMs in pursuit of Canada’s CHER project. This initiative will provide the Canadian Armed Forces with dependable and sustainable heavy support equipment for the next generation of deployable and effective earth-working and cargo-handling capabilities. The High Mobility Engineer Excavator from JCB will be on display at Rheinmetall’s outdoor booth.

Domestic Arctic Mobility Enhancement (DAME) project: Rheinmetall Canada will partner with UTV International in pursuit of the DAME project, which aims to provide the Canadian Armed Forces with a high mobility vehicle platform that can move sufficient personnel, equipment, and resources over different terrains during all seasons faced by operations in Canada’s North and Arctic. The “Voyager” from UTV International will be on display at Rheinmetall’s outdoor booth.

As Canada reinforces its commitment to protect the High Arctic and as partnerships with our global allies continue to become increasingly important, Rheinmetall’s display will provide visitors with a unique opportunity to discover the company’s comprehensive range of defence solutions. Also, having recently been awarded the Progressive Aboriginal Relations Level 2 Committed certification through the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business, Rheinmetall Canada’s team looks forward to exchanging with delegates from across Canada.

Posted in CANSEC, Mobility, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Rheinmetall MAN Contracted for Delivery of 48 HX 8×8 Protected Military Trucks for Swedish Archer Artillery System

Saturday, May 25th, 2024

Rheinmetall has been contracted by the Swedish company BAE Systems Bofors AB to deliver 48 all-terrain HX Cab Chassis with protected cabins. The highly mobile 8×8 military vehicles from Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) will serve as carriers for the Swedish Armed Forces’ Archer artillery systems. The contract, which was concluded in March 2024, has a volume of around €71 million. Deliveries are foreseen to start in the third quarter of 2024 and to be completed by the end of 2027.

Besides the vehicles the order also includes additional service and maintenance scope. The robust HX vehicles are specially adapted to the requirements of a 155mm wheeled howitzer, for example to withstand the pressure wave when firing, and provide the operator with the highest level of off-road mobility. The particular hardened Rheinmetall integrated armoured cabin contributes significantly to the protection of the crew during deployment in high-risk scenarios. This contract constitutes the first series integration of Archer system on the HX truck family.

The integration of the system is done by BAE Systems Bofors AB. The Archer wheeled artillery system is currently being used by the Swedish Armed Forces on a 6×6 platform, which will now be replaced by the new HX-8×8 systems.

High-mobility trucks from RMMV’s HX2 series are already in service with the Swedish armed forces in large numbers – as logistics trucks and as carrier vehicles for the Patriot air defence missile system, for example. Thanks to the ‘family concept’ of the HX vehicle family, the new artillery system can be seamlessly integrated into the existing logistics of the Swedish armed forces.

With the current order, Rheinmetall is making a further contribution to increasing interoperability within NATO. Vehicles of the HX family have been introduced in a growing number of armed forces of the defence alliance and allied nations. In addition to Sweden, other nations such as Germany, Great Britain, Australia, Denmark, Austria and Norway are also using HX military trucks in large numbers and in various configurations. The use of similar systems offers synergy potential in the areas of training, deployment, maintenance and repair.

Posted in Contracts, Mobility, Press Release | Comments Off on Rheinmetall MAN Contracted for Delivery of 48 HX 8×8 Protected Military Trucks for Swedish Archer Artillery System

GM Defense and Mistral Inc. Announce Strategic Collaboration to Enhance Tactical Capability

Tuesday, May 21st, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. — GM Defense, a subsidiary of General Motors, and Mistral Inc., a provider of high-performance, reliable and innovative solutions to U.S. defense and federal agencies, announced the integration of the innovative UVision and Mistral’s Hero-120 loitering munition with GM Defense’s light tactical utility vehicle. Combining GM Defense’s expertise in military mobility with Mistral and UVision’s loitering munition technology enables the companies to support the tactical needs of a modernized force.

The GM Defense utility concept vehicle is based on the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. The utility vehicle features a high percentage of commercial off the shelf parts, including Chevrolet Performance components to enhance off-road capabilities, and offers different seating configurations to meet customer requirements. The utility solution is designed with a cargo bed in the rear of the vehicle, ideal for housing Mistral’s and UVision’s Hero-120 solution, or to support command and control, electronic warfare, counter-unmanned aircraft systems, reconnaissance and logistics.

The Hero-120 is designed for engaging enemy combatants without exposing Soldiers to direct enemy fire. This loitering munition system is versatile in targeting, capable of engaging a variety of targets, including armored vehicles, enemy troops, field fortifications and urban structures. Its precision strike capability is specifically designed to maximize effectiveness while minimizing collateral damage.

“We’re seeing an increased need for light tactical wheeled vehicles that deliver agility, speed and lethality,” said John “JD” Johnson, vice president of Business Development for GM Defense. “Our collaboration with Mistral demonstrates the versatility of our utility concept vehicle and its ability to enhance the tactical capabilities of warfighters. With initial demonstrations successfully completed, we will continue to look for opportunities to showcase the value these integrated technologies deliver to defense customers.”

“This integration sets a new standard in military technology, providing the U.S. Army and allied forces with an unparalleled combination of mobility, precision and adaptability,” said Yoav Banai, vice president, Mistral. “Our collaboration with GM Defense reflects our combined commitment to advancing military capabilities and to evolving battlefield challenges.”

Key features:

• Maintainability: The utility vehicle is built for sustained operations in austere environments with a high percentage of commercial parts that may be obtained through GM’s existing global supply chain.

• Customization with Modular Kits: GM Defense offers diverse kits to enhance the concept vehicle’s capabilities, making it adaptable to meet a broad range of general purpose and special operations forces requirements.

• Multi-Canister Launcher – Expeditionary (MCL-E): The utility vehicle can house the Hero-120 MCL-E, enabling the operator to launch multiple munitions quickly and effectively.

• Enhanced Lethality: The integration of the MCL-E on the utility vehicle provides unmatched lethality for both mounted and dismounted Soldiers, enhancing their operational scope and effectiveness in diverse combat scenarios.

Posted in Industry, Mobility, Press Release, weapons | Comments Off on GM Defense and Mistral Inc. Announce Strategic Collaboration to Enhance Tactical Capability

MRZR Alpha Family of Vehicles Expanding Further to Meet Emerging Customer Requirements for Expeditionary Operations

Tuesday, May 7th, 2024

Minneapolis – May 6, 2024 – Polaris Government and Defense has been solving mobility challenges for its military customers worldwide for decades and is again expanding the capabilities, mission sets and user communities its vehicles can address with the introduction of new variants and concept demonstrators. The MRZR Alpha export power variants, autonomous MRZR Alpha and expanded payload concept demonstrators further flex the off-road engineering expertise and capabilities of the dedicated division of Polaris Inc., (NYSE: PII) the global leader in powersports.

Expeditionary warfighters operating worldwide in austere environments require modular platforms that can adjust to multiple environments and modes of transport – tactical air, fixed wing plane and ship – now more than ever. These new vehicles will be incorporated into various user exercises and experiments to help identify where and how the capabilities could augment current tactical wheeled vehicle fleets and bridge gaps between existing capabilities.

“More than just a troop carrier, a single MRZR Alpha can be transformed into multiple configurations for different environments and unique missions. We design and manufacture for the off-road environment, and our vehicles don’t sacrifice mobility, breakover and departure angles or ground clearance at full payload,” said Nick Francis, vice president, Polaris Government and Defense. “The new variants expand on the capability of the MRZR Alpha platform well beyond original specifications, helping address emerging threats and future areas of operation. The application of technology in each of these systems can serve as force multipliers and empower greater self-sufficiency for distributed forces.”

Two New MRZR Alpha Export Power Variants

Additional exportable power is now available to handle the ever-increasing demand from power-hungry systems, such as C-UAS and network on the move, which are critical enablers of littoral operations in contested environments. Polaris is offering an additional 1kW or up to 5kW of exportable power at 24v on its MRZR Alpha 4 to meet the energy draw of communications, network and air defense systems or to power external loads like a forward operating tactical grid. The two new variants also provide power management capabilities to deliver steady and stable power while stationary or on the move, while enabling simplified systems integration. The 1kW can be integrated on new vehicles or incorporated as a kit; the 5kW option is available from the factory on new production vehicles. The integration of the additional export power does not impact the vehicle’s bed layout, maintaining the capability to haul two litters and other mission critical supplies while eliminating the need for a generator and freeing up critical cargo space.

Autonomous MRZR Alpha

Four MRZR Alphas have undergone autonomy integration from two different specialty firms in support of USSOCOM’s Program Manager for Family of Special Operations Vehicles (PM-FOSOV). The most advanced MRZR to-date, the MRZR Alpha has been modified to be drive-by-wire to accept integration of robotic kits from Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) and Forterra. Autonomous vehicles can help improve soldier safety and reduce the cognitive load of operators. Recent and planned exercises will demonstrate teleoperation, go-to-point technology, waypoint denied navigation and full autonomy, with a unique focus on maximizing the platform’s extreme off-road capabilities. The Polaris-led by-wire modification of the vehicle provides several benefits: the MRZR Alpha can still be driven by an operator with the flip of a switch when operationally required. Also, the integrated design provides much lower latency – or reaction time – between the autonomous system, vehicle controls and vehicle behavior, which is a significant advantage in off-road terrain and as speeds increase.

“As a robotic platform, the MRZR Alpha is technology agnostic. We can – and do – provide the by-wire vehicle, ready to accept autonomy kits of various levels to multiple industry partners for continued development and advancement of the capability for the warfighter,” said Francis.

MRZR Alpha Expanded Payload Concept Demonstrator

Polaris has designed, manufactured and delivered several MRZR Alpha expanded payload concept demonstrators to U.S. Special Forces and Marines. The MRZR Alpha 6×6 is a two-seat platform with a 65 percent larger cargo bed optimized for heavier systems and payloads like mortar systems, command and control, UAS/drone launch, C-UAS, forward arming and refuelling point (FARP) and others. An incredible target of 3,600 lbs (about 1632.93 kg) of payload is available on the MRZR Alpha 6×6, with 3,000 lbs (about 1360.78 kg) of that available in the extended cargo bed – up from 600 lbs of bed payload in the MRZR Alpha 4. The third axle and short wheelbase also have a positive impact on mobility, decreasing the contact pressure per tire for enhanced performance in soft soil, mud and bogs. The MRZR Alpha 6×6 maintains top speed and air transportability and will have more than 90% parts commonality with the base MRZR Alpha.

“Our engineers love to solve military mobility challenges and customer collaboration provides the feedback to make enhancements and engineering changes possible,” said Shane Novotny, director of Engineering, Polaris Government and Defense. “Autonomy integration, export power and expanded payload are examples of how feedback can impact a family of vehicles. We’re also looking at tire technology, engines and drivetrains and shallow fording. We already have an Arctic Mobility kit for the MRZR Alpha and just launched two new military snowmobiles for customers needing winter warfare solutions.”

The MRZR Alpha export power variant and 6×6 expanded payload concept demonstrator were on display publicly for the first time at Modern Day Marine in Washington, D.C. in April and will also be displayed at SOF Week in Tampa in May.

New MRZR Alpha Options and Packages

Engineering and development efforts have also resulted in expanded accessories to include an optional half-windshield and an operator and stowage package. The highly configurable operator and stowage package provides a modular deck to accommodate additional spare tire carriers, jerry can holders, individual weapon holders and cargo nets to better secure equipment. The extended deck is modular allowing expansion in place of one or both rear occupant seats. Extended deck payload and provisions available to mount a litter and maintain a rear attendant seat for on the move care.

Each of these vehicles reinforce the ultimate value that Polaris brings to the warfighter – a responsive and engaged team with off-road engineering expertise, world-class manufacturing and a built-in global support network. The MRZR Alpha from Polaris Government Defense is quickly becoming the most in-demand light tactical vehicle in production and available today due to its multi-mission capabilities and off-road mobility. Funding for these efforts has included internal investments and funding from customers. MRZR Alpha production and deliveries are active with interest continuing to grow globally.

Polaris Government and Defense | Mobility Made Easy | Polaris.com/Gov

Posted in Mobility, Power, Press Release, SOF Week | 1 Comment »

MDM 24 – Polaris MRZR Alpha 6×6

Thursday, May 2nd, 2024

The new MRZR Alpha 6×6 from Polaris is the coolest thing I’ve seen at Modern Day Marine. While it has participated in a few closed events like the recent USSOCOM Family of Special Operations Vehicles Rodeo, this is its first public appearance.

The concept demonstrator was created by adding a third axel using spare parts at the factory. They then ran it over 1,300 miles to prove the concoct would work. Initial demonstrations and evaluations in 2022 and early 2023 have taken place in the Southwest and Midwest of the US as well as at the National Automotive Test Center in Nevada.

Polaris has matured the design and are manufacturing additional tech demonstrators later this year. These additional trucks will be used to conduct vehicle-level performance testing to verify that engineering design and analysis was correct and the vehicle performs as expected.

In addition to being internally transportable via the V-22, CH-47 and CH-53, the MRZR Alpha 6×6 will maintain the top speed of the smaller variants.

The production version promises more than 90% common components with the base Alpha (with a different driveline and chassis), leveraging the same high-performance shocks, eight-speed transmission, suspension, and other components for maximum commonality between variants.

In addition to increased mobility, the new six wheeled model also offers increased load capacity. With a curb weight of 4,200 lbs, it can accept 3,600 lbs of cargo for a gross vehicle weight of 7,800. This is phenomenal compared to the standard MRZR Alpha which has a bed cargo limit of 600 lbs. Believe it to not, this increased capacity is achieved by adding that third axel which only makes the MRZR about 11″ longer than the standard model. The bed is now 84″ long instead of 50″. This also results in the maneuverability of the 2-seat version with the crawling capability of the 4-seat model. It also reportedly performs even better than the 4×4 in soft soil, mud, and bogs like those in Eastern Europe.

This increased space and cargo capacity along with a payload leveling suspension, open the MRZR up to a whole slew of new missions:

– Rockets & Missiles

– Mobile mortar systems

– Command and Control

– UAS/Drone launch

– C-UAS

– L-MADIS

– TAGRS

– NOTM

MRZR Alpha 6×6 vehicles have been delivered to PM-FOSOV and the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab for continued evaluation and experimentation. PM-FOSOV will use their vehicles to help inform future requirements. The MCWL is actively experimenting with implementing new capabilities using the platform in the areas of Logistics and Precision Fires.

Posted in MDM, Mobility | 1 Comment »

V-22 Internally Air Transportable Flyer 60 Vehicle Uniquely Positioned to Meet Marine Corps Needs

Tuesday, April 30th, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April. 30, 2024) – Flyer Defense is introducing Marines to its Flyer 60 light tactical ground mobility vehicle at the 2024 Modern Day Marine Exposition in Washington, D.C. At 60” wide and tall, the Flyer 60 is internally air transportable in rotary and tilt wing aircraft, including the V-22 Osprey.

The Flyer 60 is the narrow variant of the Flyer 72, USSOCOM’s Program of Record Ground Mobility Vehicle 1.1, sharing modular commonality with the combat proven platform.

“Flyer vehicles are unique in their modularity,” said retired USMC Colonel and Flyer Defense Director of Business Development, Robert Rice. “Like the 72, the Flyer 60 is configurable for a wide variety of mission profiles and uniquely positioned to fill existing mobility gaps for Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs) and Marine Littoral Regiments (MLRs).”

Flyer vehicles are internally and externally transportable in rotary and tiltwing aircraft including the V-22, CH-53, CH-47 and C-130. They also provide maximum ship-to-shore payload on the Landing Craft Air Cushion Aircraft (LCAC) which can fit up to 10 Flyer vehicles and 60 Marines.

Flyer Defense will display the Flyer 60 at Modern Day Marine in Booth #2607.

To learn more about Flyer Defense, please visitwww.flyerdefense.com.

Posted in MDM, Mobility, Press Release | 1 Comment »

MATBOCK Monday: It’s Alive!

Monday, April 22nd, 2024

In March of 2022, MATBOCK secured a contract to develop and deliver this revolutionary Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, Hybrid Electric Vehicle, or “JLTV HEV”. The JLTV HEV not only elevates our military’s silent watch capability but produces massive amounts of power on the battlefield. Above, you will find a video of it driving out of the garage for the first time. Please stay connected with us for future updates and releases as we make monumental paradigm shifts in this technology space.

Learn more about our R&D Programs here: www.matbock.com/pages/hybrid-electric-vehicle-programs

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Mobility, Power, Research | 5 Comments »

Williams Launches New Company to Solve Clients’ Engineering Challenges with F1-Derived Innovation and Pedigree

Sunday, April 14th, 2024

Williams is proud to announce the launch of a new company that will apply the cutting-edge innovation and technologies of F1 to tackling clients’ engineering challenges in other sectors.

Drawing on lessons learned over almost 50 years at the pinnacle of motorsport, Williams Grand Prix Technologies will bring a laser focus to solving clients’ problems using world-leading engineering capabilities.

Sitting alongside Williams Racing, and also owned by Dorilton Capital, the new company will be based at the team’s technology campus in Grove, UK.

Racing in Formula 1 involves a lightning-fast development cycle, taking a car from concept to competition in less than 12 months. Williams Racing is one of the most successful teams in F1 history, with nine Constructors’ Championships, seven Drivers’ Championships and 114 race wins.

Williams Grand Prix Technologies will offer this innovation-led approach and extraordinary pedigree to a wide range of new sectors including wider motorsport, premium automotive, aerospace, defence, marine, energy, sport and lifestyle.

Clients will be able to draw on the resources, assets, skillsets, technologies and talent available to the racing team to unlock new performance and potential in their businesses. Williams Grand Prix Technologies will also work closely with Williams Racing’s technology suppliers and partners to bring advanced solutions in simulation intelligence and data engineering to clients.

A mix of highly-skilled people and unique engineering assets will combine to offer services including: platform dynamics; advanced materials; simulation and modelling; instrument and data analytics and high performance computing. Sitting alongside these core engineering services is a range of in-house prototype testing and evaluation resources that include: wind tunnel; driver-in-the-loop simulator; single-axis testing machines; 8-post rig; chassis rig; other testing rigs and bedplate testing. Whilst originally developed for the purposes of the race team, these capabilities and assets have far wider applicability which the new company will harness.

Prior to the establishment of Williams Grand Prix Technologies in 2024, Williams also had other business interests beyond F1 racing. Williams owned a majority stake in Williams Hybrid Power Limited and also established Williams Advanced Engineering – both businesses took technology developed for F1 and adapted it for multiple commercial applications. Williams Hybrid Power was sold to GKN in March 2014 and Williams Advanced Engineering was sold to Fortescue in February 2022.

Matthew Savage, Chairman at Williams Grand Prix Engineering Limited, said: “We are delighted to be establishing Williams Grand Prix Technologies, bringing F1-derived innovation and pedigree to a wide range of other sectors. Williams Grand Prix Technologies offers a unique mix of engineering experience, expertise and capabilities to solve customers’ problems and we have already received significant interest from a diverse set of clients even before launch. We will be using skills and assets that have been established, developed and refined over five decades of competing at the highest level of motor racing on a global stage, which is a unique pedigree that only Williams can offer. Being part of the wider Dorilton group of companies also allow Williams Grand Prix Technologies to offer services from across the group to further enhance the technologies and services available to the customer”.

www.williamsgptech.com

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