After several years of finding the right candidate, General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada (GDLS), the Canadian division of general Dynamics from the United States, has received a $10 billion contract from Saudi Arabia for armored vehicles. With options included, the contract increases by another $3 billion.
The vehicles are to be a new design, but in order to enter production in 2016, the vehicles will likely have to make use to a certain extent of existing designs. GDLS currently manufactures the eight-wheeled Light Armored Vehicle (LAV) for Canada, which is derived from the Swiss Piranha family of armored vehicles.
In addition, GDLS manufactures parts for the American Stryker, which in turn is based on the LAV. The four-wheeled Ocelot is produced for the United Kingdom. The vehicles can be fitted with a range of weapons such as the TOW missiles which Saudi Arabia will have in large quantities.
Regardless, the vehicles will be designed and developed to meet Saudi Arabia's specific needs and local conditions. To cover the vast distances of flat, open and undeveloped terrain, the vehicles will need to be fast and relatively light with good off-road capability, sufficient range and able to deal with hot, dusty desert conditions.
Showing posts with label Vehicles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vehicles. Show all posts
Friday, February 21, 2014
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
First Five T-84 Oplot-M / BM Main Battle Tanks From Ukraine Ready For Thailand
The Malyshev Plant in the Ukraine has finished the first five Oplot-M / BM Main Battle Tanks (MBT) for Thailand. A total of 49 tanks were ordered in 2011 for about 7.2 billion Thai baht or $230 million.
The T-84 is a derivative of the T-80 developed during Soviet times, which replaces Russian components with Ukrainian versions and several other upgrades such as a welded turret, Kontakt-5 explosive reactive armor and a Shtora-1 countermeasures suite.
The Oplot version features a host of changes such as a western style turret with compartments for both the crew and ammunition to improve crew survivability. This version retains the 125 mm KBA-3 smoothbore gun, but it has a bustle-mounted autoloader. A 120 mm gun compatible with NATO rounds is available an an option.
The latest version of the Oplot is the Oplot-M or Oplot BM which features even more improved armor and various upgraded electronics. The Oplot-M MBT will replace the M41 tanks in Thai service and up to 200 Oplot tanks may eventually be acquired.
The T-84 is a derivative of the T-80 developed during Soviet times, which replaces Russian components with Ukrainian versions and several other upgrades such as a welded turret, Kontakt-5 explosive reactive armor and a Shtora-1 countermeasures suite.
The Oplot version features a host of changes such as a western style turret with compartments for both the crew and ammunition to improve crew survivability. This version retains the 125 mm KBA-3 smoothbore gun, but it has a bustle-mounted autoloader. A 120 mm gun compatible with NATO rounds is available an an option.
The latest version of the Oplot is the Oplot-M or Oplot BM which features even more improved armor and various upgraded electronics. The Oplot-M MBT will replace the M41 tanks in Thai service and up to 200 Oplot tanks may eventually be acquired.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Belarus to Receive Third Battery of Almaz-Antei Tor-M2 / SA-15 From Russia
According to the Belarusian Defense Minister Yuri Zhadobin, Russia will deliver the third battery of short-range Almaz-Antei Tor-M2 / SA-15 Surface-to-Air Missiles Air Defense Systems before the end of 2013.
The Tor family of SAMs can be used to defend against aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, cruise missiles, precision-guided munitions and even some ballistic targets.
Belarus already has two batteries of Tor M2 which were delivered in 2011 and 2012. A Tor-M2 battery is supposed to consist of:
The Tor family of SAMs can be used to defend against aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, cruise missiles, precision-guided munitions and even some ballistic targets.
Belarus already has two batteries of Tor M2 which were delivered in 2011 and 2012. A Tor-M2 battery is supposed to consist of:
- Four Transporter Erector Launcher And Radar (TELARs)
- One mobile command post
- Various support vehicles
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
China Testing BK1060 8X8 35MM SPAAG
China has recently revealed on state television another addition to its family of 8x8 wheeled vehicles, which includes the ZBL09 Infantry Fighting Vehicle and other assorted types.
The BK1060, which has yet to enter operational service and does not carry a PLA designation, is to perform the role of very short-range air defense as a Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun with sufficient mobility to keep up with mobile formations.
Unlike the tracked PGZ07 with its dual 35 mm guns, the wheeled BK1060 carries a single 35 mm gun. The guns are derived from the towed PG99, which itself is based on the 35 mm guns originally developed by Oerlikon Contraves.
The Chinese army is standardizing around the 35 mm caliber for new development in place of the older 37 mm and to a certain extent the 25 mm. However, both the 37 mm and 25 mm will continue to be used with existing units for many years still.
The BK1060, which has yet to enter operational service and does not carry a PLA designation, is to perform the role of very short-range air defense as a Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun with sufficient mobility to keep up with mobile formations.
Unlike the tracked PGZ07 with its dual 35 mm guns, the wheeled BK1060 carries a single 35 mm gun. The guns are derived from the towed PG99, which itself is based on the 35 mm guns originally developed by Oerlikon Contraves.
The Chinese army is standardizing around the 35 mm caliber for new development in place of the older 37 mm and to a certain extent the 25 mm. However, both the 37 mm and 25 mm will continue to be used with existing units for many years still.
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Germany Approves Indonesian Purchase of 100 Leopard 2 Tanks and 50 Marder Infantry Fighting Vehicles
Germany has approved the sale of 100 used Leopard 2A6 Main Battle Tanks and 50 Marder 1A3 Infantry Fighting vehicles (IFV) to Indonesia. The German National Security Council must approve all large arms sales to other countries.
Indonesia had earlier selected to buy the Leopard 2 tanks from Germany's Rheinmetall over the option of buying them from the Netherlands. Russia had also offered its T-90 tanks to Indonesia.
Indonesia had earlier put the cost of the 100 refurbished Leopard 2A6 tanks, including related equipment, support vehicles and services, at $280 million. Delivery is expected to be complete by 2014.
The purchase are part of the $15 billion, which Indonesia plans to spend to upgrade its army. Currently, Indonesia only has outdated British Scorpion and French AMX13 tanks, which are much smaller and lighter than the heavy Leopard 2 tanks.
The Leopard 2 tank is armed with a 120 mm smoothbore cannon with a crew of 4 and weighs over 60 tons. The tracked Marder IFV is armed with a 20 mm cannon with a crew of 3 and can carry 7 soldiers.
Unlike Indonesia, a decision on whether or not to proceed with the sale of Leopard 2 tanks to Saudi Arabia has been postponed by Germany until after the federal elections in September 2013.
Saudi Arabia is interested in purchasing several hundred new Leopard 2 tanks and other armored vehicles. Qatar has already purchased 62 Leopard 2 tanks and 24 PzH2000 Self-Propelled Howitzers recently.
The first eight Flakpanzer Gepard Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun (SPAAG) to Brazil are due for delivery later this year. Brazil ordered 34 used Gepards in April 2013. They are armed with two 35 mm guns for short-range air defense.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/05/03/germany-arms-indonesia-saudi-idUSL6N0DK2II20130503
Indonesia had earlier selected to buy the Leopard 2 tanks from Germany's Rheinmetall over the option of buying them from the Netherlands. Russia had also offered its T-90 tanks to Indonesia.
Indonesia had earlier put the cost of the 100 refurbished Leopard 2A6 tanks, including related equipment, support vehicles and services, at $280 million. Delivery is expected to be complete by 2014.
The purchase are part of the $15 billion, which Indonesia plans to spend to upgrade its army. Currently, Indonesia only has outdated British Scorpion and French AMX13 tanks, which are much smaller and lighter than the heavy Leopard 2 tanks.
The Leopard 2 tank is armed with a 120 mm smoothbore cannon with a crew of 4 and weighs over 60 tons. The tracked Marder IFV is armed with a 20 mm cannon with a crew of 3 and can carry 7 soldiers.
Unlike Indonesia, a decision on whether or not to proceed with the sale of Leopard 2 tanks to Saudi Arabia has been postponed by Germany until after the federal elections in September 2013.
Saudi Arabia is interested in purchasing several hundred new Leopard 2 tanks and other armored vehicles. Qatar has already purchased 62 Leopard 2 tanks and 24 PzH2000 Self-Propelled Howitzers recently.
The first eight Flakpanzer Gepard Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun (SPAAG) to Brazil are due for delivery later this year. Brazil ordered 34 used Gepards in April 2013. They are armed with two 35 mm guns for short-range air defense.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/05/03/germany-arms-indonesia-saudi-idUSL6N0DK2II20130503
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Qatar Buys 62 Leopard II Tanks and 24 PzH2000 Self-Propelled Howitzers from Germany
Krauss-Maffei Wegmann from Germany has signed a contract with Qatar for the delivery of 62 Leopard II Main Battle Tanks and 24 PzH2000 Self-Propelled Howitzers / Guns.
Qatar wants to modernize its armed forces due to increasing tensions recently in the middle east and the new acquisitions are intended to achieve that goal. Other purchases such as the Javelin missiles from the United States are part of the effort.
The contract, including related equipment, training and other services, is estimated to be €1.89 billion or about $2.5 billion. Last year, Qatar had expressed interest in acquiring up to 200 Leopard 2 tanks.
The Leopard 2, depending on version weighs over 60 tons and carries a 120 mm smoothbore gun as its main armament. It is operated by a crew consisting of the driver, commander, loader and gunner.
The tracked PzH2000 is a 155 mm and 52 caliber Self-Propelled Howitzer with support for Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact (MRSI), where 5 rounds are fired in sequence and impact simultaneously.
The PzH2000 has a very high maximum rate of fire of up to 13 rounds per minute. The diesel-powered vehicle is operated by a crew consisting of the driver, commander and gunner.
Qatar currently operates the French AMX-30B2 tanks and South African G5 towed 155 mm howitzers that were acquired back in the eighties and will have to be replaced.
Krauss-Maffei Wegmann, in cooperation with other German defense companies such as Rheinmetall, is now looking at selling hundreds of Leopard 2A7 tanks and Boxer Infantry Fighting Vehicles to Saudi Arabia.
http://www.kmweg.de/de/en/fileadmin/user_upload/pdfs/Press_Releases/Press_Release_Army_modernization_Qatar.pdf
Qatar wants to modernize its armed forces due to increasing tensions recently in the middle east and the new acquisitions are intended to achieve that goal. Other purchases such as the Javelin missiles from the United States are part of the effort.
The contract, including related equipment, training and other services, is estimated to be €1.89 billion or about $2.5 billion. Last year, Qatar had expressed interest in acquiring up to 200 Leopard 2 tanks.
The Leopard 2, depending on version weighs over 60 tons and carries a 120 mm smoothbore gun as its main armament. It is operated by a crew consisting of the driver, commander, loader and gunner.
The tracked PzH2000 is a 155 mm and 52 caliber Self-Propelled Howitzer with support for Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact (MRSI), where 5 rounds are fired in sequence and impact simultaneously.
The PzH2000 has a very high maximum rate of fire of up to 13 rounds per minute. The diesel-powered vehicle is operated by a crew consisting of the driver, commander and gunner.
Qatar currently operates the French AMX-30B2 tanks and South African G5 towed 155 mm howitzers that were acquired back in the eighties and will have to be replaced.
Krauss-Maffei Wegmann, in cooperation with other German defense companies such as Rheinmetall, is now looking at selling hundreds of Leopard 2A7 tanks and Boxer Infantry Fighting Vehicles to Saudi Arabia.
http://www.kmweg.de/de/en/fileadmin/user_upload/pdfs/Press_Releases/Press_Release_Army_modernization_Qatar.pdf
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Venezuela receives 13 BMP-3 Infantry Fighting Vehicles from Russia
Venezuela has received another shipment of 13 BMP-3 Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV) from Russia. Deliveries of the BMP-3 had begun in 2011 and are part of an order in 2009 for 123 vehicles.
The BMP-3 vehicles are part of a Venezuelan program to modernize its armed forces. Other purchases include the Su-30 fighter aircraft, and the local manufacture of AK-103 assault rifles.
In 2010, Venezuela received a $2.2 billion loan from Russia for the purchase of 92 T-72M1M main battle tanks, BTR-30 armored personnel carriers and artillery systems.
Venezuela is projected by Russia to become its second largest market for arms purchases after 2015. Only India would be a bigger market and surpassing China.
The BMP-3 is an amphibious, tracked Infantry Fighting Vehicle with several variations developed by the Tula Design Bureau for Instrument Engineering. The specifications of the basic version are:
The crew of the BMP-3 consists of a driver, gunner and commander and can carry between 7 to 9 passengers. The vehicle provides NBC protection for the crew and can be fitted with reactive armor.
The BMP-3 is one of the most heavily armed IFV around. The turret is fitted with a 100 mm 2A70 low-velocity rifled gun, 30 mm 2A72 gun and 7.62 mm coaxial gun. There are usually two 30 mm machine guns at the front of the chassis.
The 100 mm gun can fire the 9M117 / AT-10 Stabber laser beam-riding anti-tank missiles. There are also grenade launchers and all weapons can be fired when the vehicle is stationary, afloat or on the move.
Depending on the BMP-3 version, the vehicle can be fitted with an automatic fire control system, including a laser range-finder, an optical sight and thermal imaging sight. The Shtora or Arena counter-measures systems may also be fitted.
http://en.rian.ru/world/20130328/180309221/Venezuela-Receives-13-Russian-Armored-Vehicles.html
The BMP-3 vehicles are part of a Venezuelan program to modernize its armed forces. Other purchases include the Su-30 fighter aircraft, and the local manufacture of AK-103 assault rifles.
In 2010, Venezuela received a $2.2 billion loan from Russia for the purchase of 92 T-72M1M main battle tanks, BTR-30 armored personnel carriers and artillery systems.
Venezuela is projected by Russia to become its second largest market for arms purchases after 2015. Only India would be a bigger market and surpassing China.
The BMP-3 is an amphibious, tracked Infantry Fighting Vehicle with several variations developed by the Tula Design Bureau for Instrument Engineering. The specifications of the basic version are:
- a crew of 3
- a length of 7.1 m
- a width of 3.2 m
- a height of 2.4 m
- a weight of 18.7 tons
- a range of 700 km
- a road speed of 72 km/hr
- an offroad speed of 45 km/hr
- a speed of 10 km/hr in the water
The crew of the BMP-3 consists of a driver, gunner and commander and can carry between 7 to 9 passengers. The vehicle provides NBC protection for the crew and can be fitted with reactive armor.
The BMP-3 is one of the most heavily armed IFV around. The turret is fitted with a 100 mm 2A70 low-velocity rifled gun, 30 mm 2A72 gun and 7.62 mm coaxial gun. There are usually two 30 mm machine guns at the front of the chassis.
The 100 mm gun can fire the 9M117 / AT-10 Stabber laser beam-riding anti-tank missiles. There are also grenade launchers and all weapons can be fired when the vehicle is stationary, afloat or on the move.
Depending on the BMP-3 version, the vehicle can be fitted with an automatic fire control system, including a laser range-finder, an optical sight and thermal imaging sight. The Shtora or Arena counter-measures systems may also be fitted.
http://en.rian.ru/world/20130328/180309221/Venezuela-Receives-13-Russian-Armored-Vehicles.html
Sunday, March 24, 2013
ZSL92 / WZ551 / WMZ551 / VN2 / Type 92 family of wheeled vehicles
The ZSL92 / WZ551 / Type 92 is an improved version of the original Type 90 vehicle. The vehicles can be distinguished externally by the Type 92 having evenly spaced wheels, whereas that is not the case with the Type 90.
The WZ551 was developed by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) comprises an extensive family of vehicles with 4x4, 6x6 and 8x8 wheeled variants.
The Type 92 chassis is used in different types, such as:
The Typ 92 chassis is made of all-welded steel and fully amphibious with 2 water propellers at the rear. In the basic version, the driver and commander are seated left and right at the front of the vehicle.
Both have a forward windscreen, which can be covered during combat with vision then provided by periscopes. Both the driver and commander have rear-opening, circular roof hatches on top.
The troop compartment is at the rear of the vehicle with firing ports on each side of the vehicle. On top of the troop compartment are four oblong roof hatches with another exit at the rear of the vehicle.
This family of vehicles can also be fitted with a wide range of weapons such as:
The Type 92 continues to be used and developed in a wide range of roles. The latest versions include the WMZ551 and WMZ551B. An export version is marketed abroad as the VN2 and VN2A. Another export version of the Type 90 exist as WZ523 / ZSL93.
The vehicles are used by both military and police forces domestically and have been exported abroad to numerous countries. They have also served with United Nations peacekeeping forces in many different parts of the world.
Specifications (depending on variant)
Crew: 2 + 11 (APC) or 3 + 9 (IFV)
Length: 6.63 m
Width: 2.8 m
Height: 2.1 m
Max Weight: 16500 kg
Max road speed: 100 km/hr
Max range: 800 km
The WZ551 was developed by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) comprises an extensive family of vehicles with 4x4, 6x6 and 8x8 wheeled variants.
The Type 92 chassis is used in different types, such as:
- Armored personnel carrier (APC)
- Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV)
- Self Propelled Gun / Howitzer
- Assault Gun variant
- Air Defense System variant
- Recovery Vehicle
- Ambulance variant
- Command Post variant
The Typ 92 chassis is made of all-welded steel and fully amphibious with 2 water propellers at the rear. In the basic version, the driver and commander are seated left and right at the front of the vehicle.
Both have a forward windscreen, which can be covered during combat with vision then provided by periscopes. Both the driver and commander have rear-opening, circular roof hatches on top.
The troop compartment is at the rear of the vehicle with firing ports on each side of the vehicle. On top of the troop compartment are four oblong roof hatches with another exit at the rear of the vehicle.
This family of vehicles can also be fitted with a wide range of weapons such as:
- 82 mm and 120 mm breech-loading mortars, including the PLL05
- 100 and 105 mm assualt guns, including the PTL02
- 122 mm howitzer
- 30 mm, 25 mm, 12.7 mm guns, including the ZSL92
- HJ-8 and HJ-9 anti-tank missiles, including the ZSL02
- TY-90 surface-to-air missiles, including the Yitian SHORADS
The Type 92 continues to be used and developed in a wide range of roles. The latest versions include the WMZ551 and WMZ551B. An export version is marketed abroad as the VN2 and VN2A. Another export version of the Type 90 exist as WZ523 / ZSL93.
The vehicles are used by both military and police forces domestically and have been exported abroad to numerous countries. They have also served with United Nations peacekeeping forces in many different parts of the world.
Specifications (depending on variant)
Crew: 2 + 11 (APC) or 3 + 9 (IFV)
Length: 6.63 m
Width: 2.8 m
Height: 2.1 m
Max Weight: 16500 kg
Max road speed: 100 km/hr
Max range: 800 km
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
SAMP/T Aster 30 Intercepts Tactical Ballistic Missile Target
The Surface-to-Air Missile Platform/Terrain (SAMP/T) air defense system from Eurosam was again tested against a simulated 300 km range tactical ballistic missile target that was launched from an aircraft.
After the target was acquired by the ARABEL multi-function radar, a Aster 30 B1 missile was fired and scored a direct hit against the target. Two other successful tests had been carried out earlier in 2010 and 2011.
The SAMP/T system is part of the Aster family of surface-to-air missiles (SAM), which are designed for:
The SAMP/T is usually mounted on eight-wheeled trucks with up to eight vertically launched Aster 30 missiles. Each two-stage Aster 30 missile has:
Eurosam has so far delivered 14 SAMP/T units to Italy and France. Ten of those will be deployed in 5 French air defense squadrons, of which 4 are currently equipped or being equipped.
The remaining four SAMP/T units, that have been delivered, currently serve in a single Italian regiment in Mantova. The regiment is to have a total of five units. The SAMP/T may also be exported to Turkey and Singapore.
http://www.mbda-systems.com/mediagallery/#/news/3039
After the target was acquired by the ARABEL multi-function radar, a Aster 30 B1 missile was fired and scored a direct hit against the target. Two other successful tests had been carried out earlier in 2010 and 2011.
The SAMP/T system is part of the Aster family of surface-to-air missiles (SAM), which are designed for:
- Point defense on naval platforms with Aster 15
- Area defense on naval platforms with Aster 30
- Area defense on land platforms with Aster 30
The SAMP/T is usually mounted on eight-wheeled trucks with up to eight vertically launched Aster 30 missiles. Each two-stage Aster 30 missile has:
- a length of 4.9 m
- a weight of 450 kg
- a maximum range of 120 km
- a maximum altitude of 20 km
- a maximum speed of Mach 4.5
Eurosam has so far delivered 14 SAMP/T units to Italy and France. Ten of those will be deployed in 5 French air defense squadrons, of which 4 are currently equipped or being equipped.
The remaining four SAMP/T units, that have been delivered, currently serve in a single Italian regiment in Mantova. The regiment is to have a total of five units. The SAMP/T may also be exported to Turkey and Singapore.
http://www.mbda-systems.com/mediagallery/#/news/3039
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Iraq expects delivery of 30 Mi-28NE and 50 Pantsir-S1 later this year from Russia
According to the Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari, Russia will start delivery of the Mi-28NE attack helicopter and Pantsir-S1 Self Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun as soon as financial matters have been resolved, which he estimates to be no later than the start of this summer.
Last October, Russia and Iraq announced a $4.2 billion contract for the delivery of 30 Mi-28NE attack helicopters and 50 Pantsir-S1 gun-missile, short-range, air defense systems.
The announcement was made during a meeting between Iraq's Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and his Russian counterpart, Dmitry Medvedev. The deal would be Russia's largest since 2006.
Shortly thereafter, Iraq announced that the deal had been put on hold pending review. In November, Iraq’s acting Defense Minister Sadun Al-Dulaymi denied reports that the deal had been cancelled due to corruption.
The Mil Mi-28NE Havoc is a tandem, all-weather, day-night, two-seat, attack helicopter with:
The Mi-28NE can be fitted with up to 16 Ataka anti-tank, thermobaric or other guided air-to-surface missiles, air-to-air missiles, unguided rockets and a 30 mm gun mounted beneath the chin.
The Pantsir-S1 from the KBP Design Bureau is a mobile, short-to-medium range, air defense system fitted with:
http://en.rian.ru/world/20130304/179805890/Iraq-to-Get-Russian-Weapons-by-June---Minister.html
Last October, Russia and Iraq announced a $4.2 billion contract for the delivery of 30 Mi-28NE attack helicopters and 50 Pantsir-S1 gun-missile, short-range, air defense systems.
The announcement was made during a meeting between Iraq's Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and his Russian counterpart, Dmitry Medvedev. The deal would be Russia's largest since 2006.
Shortly thereafter, Iraq announced that the deal had been put on hold pending review. In November, Iraq’s acting Defense Minister Sadun Al-Dulaymi denied reports that the deal had been cancelled due to corruption.
The Mil Mi-28NE Havoc is a tandem, all-weather, day-night, two-seat, attack helicopter with:
- a length of 17 m
- a rotor diameter of 17.2 m
- a height of 4.7 m
- an empty weight of 8600 kg
- a maximum takeoff weight of 11500 kg
- a maximum speed of 320 km/hr
- a ferry range of 1100 km
- a ceiling of 5700 m
The Mi-28NE can be fitted with up to 16 Ataka anti-tank, thermobaric or other guided air-to-surface missiles, air-to-air missiles, unguided rockets and a 30 mm gun mounted beneath the chin.
The Pantsir-S1 from the KBP Design Bureau is a mobile, short-to-medium range, air defense system fitted with:
- 2 x 6 radio-command guided, 57E6 surface-to-air missiles with a range of up to 20 km and an altitude of 15 km
- two dual 2A38M 30 mm guns with a range of up to 4 km
http://en.rian.ru/world/20130304/179805890/Iraq-to-Get-Russian-Weapons-by-June---Minister.html
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Russian Airborne Troops will receive GAZ-2330 Tigr armored vehicles
The Russian Airborne Troops will be mainly equipped with Russian GAZ-2330 Tigr light armored vehicles, manufactured by MIC, a GAZ Group division, at the Arzamas machine-manufacturing plant.
The Tigr family of 4x4 multi-purpose armored vehicles comprises many different variants for both military and police forces, such as the SPM-2 GAZ-233036 Tigr vehicle.
The Russian Defense Ministry had earlier announced that it would not acquire anymore Italian Iveco LMV M65 Lynx 4x4 light armored vehicles. The Lynx vehicle had been selected over the Tigr under the previous Defense Minister Anatoly Sedyukov.
That decision was unusual in that Russia in principle tends to buy from domestic companies. The new Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has now insisted that domestic companies must receive priority in procuring weaponry for the Russian military.
The first 57 Lynx vehicles were assembled last year with 10 percent local content at a plant in Voronezh. In 2013, the remaining 301 vehicles under the existing contract will be assembled at a new KAMAZ plant in Tatarstan. A total of 1775 Lynx vehicles are planned to be acquired by 2015 for $1 billion.
The Russian Airborne Troops may also be equipped with KamAZ 6x6 armored personnel carriers, provided the design is tailored to meet the requirements of Russian paratroopers.
http://en.ria.ru/military_news/20130226/179682507/Russian-Paratroopers-to-Receive-Indigenous-Armored-Vehicles-----.html
The Tigr family of 4x4 multi-purpose armored vehicles comprises many different variants for both military and police forces, such as the SPM-2 GAZ-233036 Tigr vehicle.
The Russian Defense Ministry had earlier announced that it would not acquire anymore Italian Iveco LMV M65 Lynx 4x4 light armored vehicles. The Lynx vehicle had been selected over the Tigr under the previous Defense Minister Anatoly Sedyukov.
That decision was unusual in that Russia in principle tends to buy from domestic companies. The new Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has now insisted that domestic companies must receive priority in procuring weaponry for the Russian military.
The first 57 Lynx vehicles were assembled last year with 10 percent local content at a plant in Voronezh. In 2013, the remaining 301 vehicles under the existing contract will be assembled at a new KAMAZ plant in Tatarstan. A total of 1775 Lynx vehicles are planned to be acquired by 2015 for $1 billion.
The Russian Airborne Troops may also be equipped with KamAZ 6x6 armored personnel carriers, provided the design is tailored to meet the requirements of Russian paratroopers.
http://en.ria.ru/military_news/20130226/179682507/Russian-Paratroopers-to-Receive-Indigenous-Armored-Vehicles-----.html
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
DAGR rocket tested using JLTV vehicle
The Direct Attack Guided Rocket (DAGR) from Lockheed Martin successfully demonstrated its ability to be surface launched from a vehicle or vessel. The tests were conducted from M299 launchers fitted to a Joint Light
Tactical Vehicle (JLTV).
The precision guided DAGR is based on the Hydra 70 rocket, but much improved with features such as lock-on-after-launch (LOAL) and lock-on-before-launch (LOBL) capability. It is compatible and can be fitted on existing Hellfire II systems and launchers.
The DAGR can be launched from both the surface and air, and has:
The 4x4 wheeled JLTV is to succeed the Humvee currently in service, but designed to be more survivable and carry greater payload than its predecessor. It will be able to fill the roles its predecessor was not designed for, but is expected to perform.
http://www.lockheedmartin.com/us/news/press-releases/2013/february/LM-Demonstrates-DAGR-Missile.html
The precision guided DAGR is based on the Hydra 70 rocket, but much improved with features such as lock-on-after-launch (LOAL) and lock-on-before-launch (LOBL) capability. It is compatible and can be fitted on existing Hellfire II systems and launchers.
The DAGR can be launched from both the surface and air, and has:
- a length of 1.9 m
- a diameter of 70 mm
- a wingspan of 222 mm
- a weight of 15.8 kg
- a warhead of 5 kg
- a range of 5 km at sea-level
- a range of 12 km at 20000 feet
The 4x4 wheeled JLTV is to succeed the Humvee currently in service, but designed to be more survivable and carry greater payload than its predecessor. It will be able to fill the roles its predecessor was not designed for, but is expected to perform.
http://www.lockheedmartin.com/us/news/press-releases/2013/february/LM-Demonstrates-DAGR-Missile.html
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Chinese 300 mm PHL03 / PHL96 / AR1 / AR1A / AR2 / AR3 MLRS
During the nineties, China imported a number of Russian 300 mm BM-30/9A52 Smerch Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS), which were mounted on a Chinese chassis instead of the original MAZ chassis and designated the PHL96.
This system was used as a basis to develop their own MLRS version with the designation PHL03, which retained the original Russian configuration with 12 rocket tubes.
Other versions with alternative configurations were developed by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO), primarily for the export market:
Another variant to appear on the export market was the A100. Unlike the previous system, this variant was developed by China Precision Machinery Import Export Corporation (CPMIEC) and carries 10 300 mm rocket tubes in a 3-4-3 layout.
Various rocket types have already been developed for the PHL03, including:
While the Chinese and Russian rockets are similar in dimensions, according to their Chinese manufacturers the Chinese rockets are different internally and incompatible and therefore cannot be substituted for their Russian counterparts.
This system was used as a basis to develop their own MLRS version with the designation PHL03, which retained the original Russian configuration with 12 rocket tubes.
Other versions with alternative configurations were developed by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO), primarily for the export market:
- the AR2 is the export designation of the PHL03 in service with the Chinese army with identical configuration
- the AR1 variant with 2 x 4 tube layout enabled faster reloading by swapping out just 2 boxes with 4 tubes each
- the AR1A variant is similar to the AR1 with the difference being each box containing 5 tubes in a 2 x 5 layout
- the AR3 variant can also mount heavier 2 x 4 370 mm rockets as well as the original 300 mm rockets
Another variant to appear on the export market was the A100. Unlike the previous system, this variant was developed by China Precision Machinery Import Export Corporation (CPMIEC) and carries 10 300 mm rocket tubes in a 3-4-3 layout.
Various rocket types have already been developed for the PHL03, including:
- high explosive, fragmentation
- thermobaric
- incendiary
- cluster munition, anti-personnel
- cluster munition, anti-tank minelets
- sensor fuzed, smart submunition
While the Chinese and Russian rockets are similar in dimensions, according to their Chinese manufacturers the Chinese rockets are different internally and incompatible and therefore cannot be substituted for their Russian counterparts.
Credit original poster, via Chinese Internet
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Chinese Amphibious Type 05 / ZBD05 / ZTD05 Family of IFV / AAV
The Type 05 family of tracked Amphibious Assault vehicles (AAV) are similar in design to the now cancelled Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV) of the United States. The vehicles are launched at sea from amphibious assault ships and swim at high speed to shore.
To accomplish its mission, the specially designed planing hull in the shape of a boat reduces hydrodynamic drag and is propelled by 2 water jets mounted at the rear of the vehicle. The diesel engine is located at the front with the crew behind, which can enter or exit through a rear door.
The Type 05 family comprise several versions:
The standard hull armor provides:
The ZTD05 Light Tank variant carries a crew of 4 with the addition of a loader and a turret armed with a fully stabilized 105 mm gun, which can engage targets while still at sea. It can fire several types of rounds:
To accomplish its mission, the specially designed planing hull in the shape of a boat reduces hydrodynamic drag and is propelled by 2 water jets mounted at the rear of the vehicle. The diesel engine is located at the front with the crew behind, which can enter or exit through a rear door.
The Type 05 family comprise several versions:
- the ZBD05 or ZBD2000 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV)
- the ZTD05 Light Tank replaces the ZTS63A amphibious tank
- command vehicle, recovery vehicle and other specialized variants
The standard hull armor provides:
- protection at the front against 12.7 mm AP round up to 100 m
- protection at the sides against 7.62 mm AP rounds
- protection at the rear against 7.62 mm AP rounds
The ZTD05 Light Tank variant carries a crew of 4 with the addition of a loader and a turret armed with a fully stabilized 105 mm gun, which can engage targets while still at sea. It can fire several types of rounds:
- Armor Piercing Fin Stabilised Discarding Sabot (APFSDS)
- High Explosive (HE)
- High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT)
- laser Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) based on the Russian 9M117 Bastion
Credit original poster, via Chinese Internet
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Chinese SET MRAP armored vehicle from Poly Technologies
Developed for police and military use, the 4 x 4 wheeled Security Enforcement Transportation (SET) Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle was developed by Poly Technologies Inc., a subsidiary of China Poly Group Corporation.
The SET MRAP is part of a range of MRAP vehicles developed based on technology and know-how provided to Poly Technologies by Mobile Land Systems, an armored vehicle manufacturer from South Africa.
The armored hull has been specially designed to protect its passengers from outside threats, including from explosives such as Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) or land mines. Its infrared signature has also been reduced in its design.
The vehicle has been exported and is currently used by the security forces of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Specifications
Length: 6837 mm
Width: 2546 mm
height: 2750 mm
Gross Weight: 14000 kg
Payload: 3200 kg
Engine: 260 hp water-cooled diesel
Ballistic Protection Level: BR-3 to BR-7 depending on customer needs
Mine Protection Level: 4 kg under belly and 7 kg under wheel
The SET MRAP is part of a range of MRAP vehicles developed based on technology and know-how provided to Poly Technologies by Mobile Land Systems, an armored vehicle manufacturer from South Africa.
The armored hull has been specially designed to protect its passengers from outside threats, including from explosives such as Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) or land mines. Its infrared signature has also been reduced in its design.
The vehicle has been exported and is currently used by the security forces of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Specifications
Length: 6837 mm
Width: 2546 mm
height: 2750 mm
Gross Weight: 14000 kg
Payload: 3200 kg
Engine: 260 hp water-cooled diesel
Ballistic Protection Level: BR-3 to BR-7 depending on customer needs
Mine Protection Level: 4 kg under belly and 7 kg under wheel
Friday, January 4, 2013
Chinese CS/VN3 4 x 4 wheeled Light Armored Vehicle (LAV)
Designed for military and police use, the 4 x 4 wheeled CS/VN3 has a crew of 5, consisting of a driver, commander and 3 passengers and used primarily in the scout and reconnaissance role.
The armored personnel carrier weighs 5.3 ton and the all-welded steel hull provides protection against small arms, shell splinters and selected types of mines. The vehicle is amphibious and can be fitted with a water propeller at the rear.
The engine is located forward of the vehicle, in front of the driver and commander. They are surrounded by bullet-proof windows and a hatch above. The 3 passengers sit at the rear of the vehicle and enter through a rear door. The bullet-proof windows are fitted with firing ports below.
The CS/VN3 can be installed with
Specifications
Crew: 2 + 3
Weight: 5300 kg
Length: 4620 mm
Height: 1770 mm
Width: 2200 mm
Ground clearance: 410 mm
Wheelbase: 3000 mm
Max. speed: 110 km/h
Max. range: 600 km
Trench: 700 mm
Vertical obstacle: 400 mm
The armored personnel carrier weighs 5.3 ton and the all-welded steel hull provides protection against small arms, shell splinters and selected types of mines. The vehicle is amphibious and can be fitted with a water propeller at the rear.
The engine is located forward of the vehicle, in front of the driver and commander. They are surrounded by bullet-proof windows and a hatch above. The 3 passengers sit at the rear of the vehicle and enter through a rear door. The bullet-proof windows are fitted with firing ports below.
The CS/VN3 can be installed with
- an anti-skid braking system
- nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) protection system
- a fire detection and suppression system
Specifications
Crew: 2 + 3
Weight: 5300 kg
Length: 4620 mm
Height: 1770 mm
Width: 2200 mm
Ground clearance: 410 mm
Wheelbase: 3000 mm
Max. speed: 110 km/h
Max. range: 600 km
Trench: 700 mm
Vertical obstacle: 400 mm
Friday, December 28, 2012
Philippines purchases 3 AW109 AgustaWestland helicopters and 72 vehicles from South Korea
The Philippines has signed a contract with the Anglo-Italian company AgustaWestland for the delivery of 3 AW109 naval helicopters in a deal worth 1.34 billion Philippine Pesos or roughly $33.5 million dollar.
Another contract worth 300.78 Philippine Pesos or $7.5 million dollar was signed with the Korean KIA Motors Corp. for 60 ambulances and 12 five-ton trucks to be used by the army.
All are part of a military modernisation programme on the part of the Philippines, which in recent times has been involved in an ongoing territorial dispute with the People's Republic of China.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/12/27/890578/dnd-signs-p1.6-b-purchase-deal-choppers-ambulances
Another contract worth 300.78 Philippine Pesos or $7.5 million dollar was signed with the Korean KIA Motors Corp. for 60 ambulances and 12 five-ton trucks to be used by the army.
All are part of a military modernisation programme on the part of the Philippines, which in recent times has been involved in an ongoing territorial dispute with the People's Republic of China.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/12/27/890578/dnd-signs-p1.6-b-purchase-deal-choppers-ambulances
Monday, December 24, 2012
NORINCO VN1 APC / ZBL09 IFV / PLL09 / ZTL09 Type 09 8 x 8 Family
Following in the foot steps of the worldwide trend away from 6 x 6 wheeled vehicles and towards larger vehicles such as the Stryker or Piranha, China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) developed its own wheeled 8 x 8 chassis, the Type 09. The new vehicles are expected to replace the 6 x 6 ZSL92 / WZ551 series.
The crew consists of a driver, the commander to his right and the gunner. There is room for up to seven infantry, which leave the vehicle through roof hatches or through the rear exit. The Type 09 is fully amphibious and comes with 2 water propellers at the rear.
The standard hull armor provides:
The first Type 09 variant to enter service in China was as an Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) with the designation ZBL09. The Type 09 chassis has since been used on a wide range of combat vehicles.
The APC variant is marketed for export as the VN1 with the following specifications:
Crew: 3 + 7
Weight: 21 tons
Length: 8 m
Width: 3 m
Height: 2.1 m
Ground clearance: 0.45 m
Maximum road speed: 100 km/hr
Maximum water speed: 8 km/hr
Range: 800 km
The crew consists of a driver, the commander to his right and the gunner. There is room for up to seven infantry, which leave the vehicle through roof hatches or through the rear exit. The Type 09 is fully amphibious and comes with 2 water propellers at the rear.
The standard hull armor provides:
- protection at the front against 12.7 mm AP rounds up to 100 m
- protection at the sides against 7.62 mm AP rounds up to 100 m
- protection at the rear against 7.62 mm rounds
The first Type 09 variant to enter service in China was as an Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) with the designation ZBL09. The Type 09 chassis has since been used on a wide range of combat vehicles.
- the basic ZSL09 Armored Personnel Carrier (APC)
- the ZBL09 IFV version with a turret armed with a 30x165 mm gun, coaxial 7.62x54R mm gun and HJ-73 / HJ-8 anti-tank missiles
- the PLL09 Self-Propelled Gun Howitzer version armed with a 122 mm howitzer
- the ZTL09 Assault Gun version armed with a 105 mm gun
The APC variant is marketed for export as the VN1 with the following specifications:
Crew: 3 + 7
Weight: 21 tons
Length: 8 m
Width: 3 m
Height: 2.1 m
Ground clearance: 0.45 m
Maximum road speed: 100 km/hr
Maximum water speed: 8 km/hr
Range: 800 km
Credit original poster, via Chinese Internet
Friday, December 21, 2012
NORINCO PLZ04 / PLZ05 Self Propelled Gun / Howitzer artillery system
The PLZ05 is the latest tracked Self-Propelled Gun / Howitzer from China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) to enter service with the Chinese armed forces and the first with a 54 caliber 155 mm gun.
Two versions of the same 155 mm howitzer were initially developed. The PLZ05 with a 54 caliber and the PLZ04 with a more standard 52 caliber. The PLZ05 was deemed to offer superior performance and adopted into Chinese service. The PLZ04 is now intended for the export market.
The PLZ05 superseded the 45 caliber 155 mm PLZ-91 / PLZ-45, which only entered service in limited numbers with a single training battalion. It will eventually replace the PLZ83 152 mm Self-Propelled Gun / Howitzer in Chinese service, a role first intended for the PLZ91.
The PLZ05 turret can traverse 360 degrees and comes with a gun using the French 155 mm standard, abandoning the Russian 152 mm standard used previously by the Chinese. This gives it greater commonality with artillery systems and ammunition used worldwide. It is compatible with all standard 155 mm rounds, including:
Unlike the semi-automatic gun loader of the PLZ91, the PLZ05 features a fully automatic gun loader giving it a maximum firing rate of 10 rounds per minute. It also comes with a 12.7 mm anti-aircraft gun and two four-barrelled grenade launchers.
PLZ04 specifications
Weight: 45 tons
Length: 11 m
Width: 3.3 m
Crew: 4
Engine: diesel 800 hp
Two versions of the same 155 mm howitzer were initially developed. The PLZ05 with a 54 caliber and the PLZ04 with a more standard 52 caliber. The PLZ05 was deemed to offer superior performance and adopted into Chinese service. The PLZ04 is now intended for the export market.
The PLZ05 superseded the 45 caliber 155 mm PLZ-91 / PLZ-45, which only entered service in limited numbers with a single training battalion. It will eventually replace the PLZ83 152 mm Self-Propelled Gun / Howitzer in Chinese service, a role first intended for the PLZ91.
The PLZ05 turret can traverse 360 degrees and comes with a gun using the French 155 mm standard, abandoning the Russian 152 mm standard used previously by the Chinese. This gives it greater commonality with artillery systems and ammunition used worldwide. It is compatible with all standard 155 mm rounds, including:
- ERFB/HE
- ERFB-BB/HE
- ERFB-BB/Cargo
- ERFB/Smoke
- ERFB/ILL
- ERFB/WP
Unlike the semi-automatic gun loader of the PLZ91, the PLZ05 features a fully automatic gun loader giving it a maximum firing rate of 10 rounds per minute. It also comes with a 12.7 mm anti-aircraft gun and two four-barrelled grenade launchers.
PLZ04 specifications
Weight: 45 tons
Length: 11 m
Width: 3.3 m
Crew: 4
Engine: diesel 800 hp
Thursday, December 20, 2012
NORINCO PLZ91 / PLZ45 Self Propelled Gun / Howitzer artillery system
The PLZ45 is the export designation of the PLZ91 tracked Self-Propelled Gun / Howitzer and developed by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) as a replacement for the 152 mm PLZ83. It was the first to adopt the French 155 mm gun standard, which is more compatible with the international arms market, instead of the previous Russian 152 mm standard.
The PLZ45 comes equipped with the same 45 caliber 155 mm gun found in the Type 89 or PLL01 towed gun / howitzer. The gun has a maximum rate of fire of 5 rounds per minute and is compatible with all standard 155 mm NATO rounds, including:
The PLZ45 has been exported to Bangladesh, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. However, except for limited numbers in a single battalion for training purposes, the PLZ91 has not been adopted by the Chinese army. Its role has been superseded in China by the more powerful PLZ-05 with a longer 54 caliber 155 mm gun.
Weight: 33 tons
Length: 10.15 m
Width: 3.23 m
Height: 3.42 m
Ground Clearance: 0.45 m
Engine: air-cooled diesel 525 hp
Operational range on road: 450 km
Fuel tank capacity: 320 litre
Maximum Speed: 55 km/hr
Average Speed on road: 40 km/hr
Average Speed cross country: 30 km/hr
The PLZ45 comes equipped with the same 45 caliber 155 mm gun found in the Type 89 or PLL01 towed gun / howitzer. The gun has a maximum rate of fire of 5 rounds per minute and is compatible with all standard 155 mm NATO rounds, including:
- ERFB/HE
- ERFB-BB/HE
- ERFB-BB/Cargo
- ERFB/Smoke
- ERFB/ILL
- ERFB/WP
The PLZ45 has been exported to Bangladesh, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. However, except for limited numbers in a single battalion for training purposes, the PLZ91 has not been adopted by the Chinese army. Its role has been superseded in China by the more powerful PLZ-05 with a longer 54 caliber 155 mm gun.
PLZ45 specifications
Crew: 5Weight: 33 tons
Length: 10.15 m
Width: 3.23 m
Height: 3.42 m
Ground Clearance: 0.45 m
Engine: air-cooled diesel 525 hp
Operational range on road: 450 km
Fuel tank capacity: 320 litre
Maximum Speed: 55 km/hr
Average Speed on road: 40 km/hr
Average Speed cross country: 30 km/hr
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