October 2007 Worldwide world news army military Defence industries industry exhibition equipment UK


 
 
October 2007
Français
 

France Back Menu
French Army issued a purchase order to Nexter for the delivery of 117 infantry combat armoured vehicles (VBCI).

On 19th October 2007, the DGA (the French armement procurement agency) issued a purchase order to Nexter for the delivery of 117 infantry combat armoured vehicles (VBCI). This order completes the initial order for 65 vehicles, the first 41 of which will be delivered to the French Army during the second half of 2008, in accordance with the initial schedule. These 117 vehicles will thus be produced within a period of one year, starting early in 2008, and the assembly line has the potential to provide a further substantial increase in production rate to meet any export contract requirements.
31 October 2007

Nexter VBCI wheeled infantry combat armoured vehicle picture. On 19th October 2007, the DGA (the French armement procurement agency) issued a purchase order to Nexter for the delivery of 117 infantry combat armoured vehicles (VBCI). This order completes the initial order for 65 vehicles, the first 41 of which will be delivered to the French Army during the second half of 2008, in accordance with the initial schedule. These 117 vehicles will thus be produced within a period of one year, starting early in 2008, and the assembly line has the potential to provide a further substantial increase in production rate to meet any export contract requirements. Nexter VBCI wheeled infantry combat armoured vehicle picture. On 19th October 2007, the DGA (the French armement procurement agency) issued a purchase order to Nexter for the delivery of 117 infantry combat armoured vehicles (VBCI). This order completes the initial order for 65 vehicles, the first 41 of which will be delivered to the French Army during the second half of 2008, in accordance with the initial schedule. These 117 vehicles will thus be produced within a period of one year, starting early in 2008, and the assembly line has the potential to provide a further substantial increase in production rate to meet any export contract requirements.
Nexter VBCI wheeled infantry combat armoured vehicle picture Nexter VBCI wheeled infantry combat armoured vehicle picture

 

 

United States Back Menu
Patria's AMV wheeled armoured personnel carrier vehicle for the US Marines Corps ?

In the second quarter of 2008, the US Marine Corps is expected to issue an RFP to begin replacing its aging LAV amphibious wheeled armored personnel carriers. When they do, they will be hearing from a somewhat unusual competitor. Lockheed Martin Systems Integration in Owego, NY will act as prime contractor for a bid, providing systems integration, survivability enhancements, U.S. production, communications systems integration (which Lockheed handled for the LAV-C2 variant), and support. Their partner, Patria Oyj, will supply their amphibious Armoured Modular Vehicle 8×8 APC, and the partnership may also clear the way for options like Patria's Nemo and AMOS mortar turrets to replace vehicles like the LAV-M.
29 October 2007

Patria AMV wheeled armoured personnel carrier vehicle picture. In the second quarter of 2008, the US Marine Corps is expected to issue an RFP to begin replacing its aging LAV amphibious wheeled armored personnel carriers. When they do, they will be hearing from a somewhat unusual competitor. Lockheed Martin Systems Integration in Owego, NY will act as prime contractor for a bid, providing systems integration, survivability enhancements, U.S. production, communications systems integration (which Lockheed handled for the LAV-C2 variant), and support. Their partner, Patria Oyj, will supply their amphibious Armoured Modular Vehicle 8×8 APC, and the partnership may also clear the way for options like Patria's Nemo and AMOS mortar turrets to replace vehicles like the LAV-M. Patria AMV wheeled armoured personnel carrier vehicle picture. In the second quarter of 2008, the US Marine Corps is expected to issue an RFP to begin replacing its aging LAV amphibious wheeled armored personnel carriers. When they do, they will be hearing from a somewhat unusual competitor. Lockheed Martin Systems Integration in Owego, NY will act as prime contractor for a bid, providing systems integration, survivability enhancements, U.S. production, communications systems integration (which Lockheed handled for the LAV-C2 variant), and support. Their partner, Patria Oyj, will supply their amphibious Armoured Modular Vehicle 8×8 APC, and the partnership may also clear the way for options like Patria's Nemo and AMOS mortar turrets to replace vehicles like the LAV-M.
Patria AMV wheeled armoured personnel carrier vehicle picture Patria AMV NEMO wheeled armoured vehicle mortar carrier picture
Patria AMV
Data Sheet
 

 

 

Turkey Back Menu
Turkish armoured personnel carrier patrols a road in the southeastern Turkish province of Sirnak,near Iraqi border.

Turkish armoured personnel carrier patrols a road in the southeastern Turkish province of Sirnak October 26, 2007. President Abdullah Gul warned Kurdish rebels on Thursday that Turkey's patience was running out after Turkish forces said they had repelled a guerrilla attack near the Iraqi border.
26 October 2007

Turkish army BTR-60 wheeled armoured vehicle personnel carrier picture. Turkish armoured personnel carrier patrols a road in the southeastern Turkish province of Sirnak October 26, 2007. President Abdullah Gul warned Kurdish rebels on Thursday that Turkey's patience was running out after Turkish forces said they had repelled a guerrilla attack near the Iraqi border. Turkish army BTR-80 wheeled armoured vehicle personnel carrier picture. Turkish armoured personnel carrier patrols a road in the southeastern Turkish province of Sirnak October 26, 2007. President Abdullah Gul warned Kurdish rebels on Thursday that Turkey's patience was running out after Turkish forces said they had repelled a guerrilla attack near the Iraqi border. Turkish army soldier picture. Turkish armoured personnel carrier patrols a road in the southeastern Turkish province of Sirnak October 26, 2007. President Abdullah Gul warned Kurdish rebels on Thursday that Turkey's patience was running out after Turkish forces said they had repelled a guerrilla attack near the Iraqi border.
Turkish army BTR-60 wheeled armoured vehicle personnel carrier picture Turkish army BTR-80 wheeled armoured vehicle personnel carrier picture Turkish army soldier picture
BTR-60
Data Sheet
BTR-80
Data Sheet
 

 

 

Uganda Back Menu
Three Ugandan African Union soldiers were injured in a mortar attack in the Somali capital, Mogadishu.

Ugandan African Union soldiers keep guard on top of armoured personel carrier's, Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2007 as three Ugandan soldiers are flown to Nairobi, Kenya after they were injured in a mortar attack in the Somali capital, Mogadishu. Thousands of Somalis have died so far this year, many of them caught in the crossfire as Islamic insurgents battle government troops and their Ethiopian allies. An Islamic alliance gained control of Mogadishu and much of southern Somalia last year, until they were ousted by Ethiopian soldiers supporting the shaky U.N.-backed government.
24 October 2007

Ugandan Buffel wheeled armoured personnel carrier picture . Ugandan African Union soldiers keep guard on top of armoured personel carrier's, Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2007 as three Ugandan soldiers are flown to Nairobi, Kenya after they were injured in a mortar attack in the Somali capital, Mogadishu. Thousands of Somalis have died so far this year, many of them caught in the crossfire as Islamic insurgents battle government troops and their Ethiopian allies. An Islamic alliance gained control of Mogadishu and much of southern Somalia last year, until they were ousted by Ethiopian soldiers supporting the shaky U.N.-backed government.
Ugandan Buffel wheeled armoured personnel carrier picture
BUFFEL
Data Sheet

 

 

Bahrain Back Menu
The Ballistic missile defence Radar System AN/TPS-59 (V) 3B use now by the Bahrain Defence Force for air surveillance.

In May 2004, the U.S. Marine Corps awarded Lockheed Martin a $43.6 million contract to provide the AN/TPS-59(V)3B Ballistic missile defence Radar System, along with associated supplies, equipment and services, to the Kingdom of Bahrain as a foreign military sale. The production line was restarted, and new radar was produced. Earlier in 2007, members of the Bahrain Defence Force were trained how to operate and maintain the system at Lockheed Martin's Radar Systems facility in Syracuse, NY. The Kingdom's TPS-59 radar proceeded smoothly through a site acceptance test in August 2007, and is now being used by the Bahrain Defence Force for air surveillance.
22 October 2007

US Army AN/TPS-59(V)3B Ballistic missile defence Radar System picture. In May 2004, the U.S. Marine Corps awarded Lockheed Martin a $43.6 million contract to provide the AN/TPS-59(V)3B Ballistic missile defence Radar System, along with associated supplies, equipment and services, to the Kingdom of Bahrain as a foreign military sale. The production line was restarted, and new radar was produced. Earlier in 2007, members of the Bahrain Defence Force were trained how to operate and maintain the system at Lockheed Martin's Radar Systems facility in Syracuse, NY. The Kingdom's TPS-59 radar proceeded smoothly through a site acceptance test in August 2007, and is now being used by the Bahrain Defence Force for air surveillance.
US Army AN/TPS-59(V)3B Ballistic missile defence Radar System picture

 

 

United States Back Menu
New upgrade for the self-propelled howitzer, M109, the M109A6 Paladin PIM Partnership.

The M109A6 Paladin addressed these issues via computerization and communications upgrades. Secure SINCGARS radios replaced the wires, while an inertial navigation systems and sensors attached to the gun automatically tell the crew where they are and where their shells are likely to land. No aiming circles. No surveyed fire points. No wire lines. Just move into the assigned position area somewhere, calculate data, receive orders from the platoon operations center, and use the automatic fire control system to send the shell on its way. Then move immediately, receive another target, lay and fire again. Improved armor protection added even more protection to the new system, and an upgraded engine and transmission made the M109A6 speedier. On-board prognostics and diagnostics were installed to improve the vehicles' readiness and maintainability. Finally, more shells were made available, as ammunition stowage was made safer, and the load was increased from 36 rounds to 39 rounds of 155mm shells.
21 October 2007

US Army M109A6 Paladin FIM Partnership self-propelled howitzer picture. The M109A6 Paladin addressed these issues via computerization and communications upgrades. Secure SINCGARS radios replaced the wires, while an inertial navigation systems and sensors attached to the gun automatically tell the crew where they are and where their shells are likely to land. No aiming circles. No surveyed fire points. No wire lines. Just move into the assigned position area somewhere, calculate data, receive orders from the platoon operations center, and use the automatic fire control system to send the shell on its way. Then move immediately, receive another target, lay and fire again. Improved armor protection added even more protection to the new system, and an upgraded engine and transmission made the M109A6 speedier. On-board prognostics and diagnostics were installed to improve the vehicles' readiness and maintainability. Finally, more shells were made available, as ammunition stowage was made safer, and the load was increased from 36 rounds to 39 rounds of 155mm shells. US Army M109A6 Paladin FIM Partnership self-propelled howitzer picture. The M109A6 Paladin addressed these issues via computerization and communications upgrades. Secure SINCGARS radios replaced the wires, while an inertial navigation systems and sensors attached to the gun automatically tell the crew where they are and where their shells are likely to land. No aiming circles. No surveyed fire points. No wire lines. Just move into the assigned position area somewhere, calculate data, receive orders from the platoon operations center, and use the automatic fire control system to send the shell on its way. Then move immediately, receive another target, lay and fire again. Improved armor protection added even more protection to the new system, and an upgraded engine and transmission made the M109A6 speedier. On-board prognostics and diagnostics were installed to improve the vehicles' readiness and maintainability. Finally, more shells were made available, as ammunition stowage was made safer, and the load was increased from 36 rounds to 39 rounds of 155mm shells.
US Army M109A6 Paladin PIM Partnership self-propelled howitzer picture US Army M109A6 Paladin PIM Partnership self-propelled howitzer picture

 

 

Israel Back Menu
Israeli army troops raided the West Bank city of Nablus.

An Israeli army bulldozer is hit with a molotov cocktail thrown by Palestinian youths during an army operation in the Old City of the West Bank town of Nablus, Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2007. Israeli troops raided the West Bank city of Nablus before dawn Tuesday, and two Palestinians were shot and killed in the ensuing violence, Palestinian witnesses and doctors said.
16 October 2007

Israeli army Engineer bulldozer picture. An Israeli army bulldozer is hit with a molotov cocktail thrown by Palestinian youths during an army operation in the Old City of the West Bank town of Nablus, Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2007. Israeli troops raided the West Bank city of Nablus before dawn Tuesday, and two Palestinians were shot and killed in the ensuing violence, Palestinian witnesses and doctors said.
Israeli army Engineer bulldozer picture

 

 

United Kingdom Back Menu
The UK's FRES Transformational armoured vehicles

The "Future Rapid Effects System" (FRES) is the UK's new transformational armored vehicle system, meant to fulfill many of the same kinds of roles as the Stryker Family of armored wheeled vehicles and/or the Future Combat Systems Manned Ground Vehicle family. Current estimates indicate a potential requirement for over 3,500 FRES vehicles, though DID readers are advised that in practice, actual numbers bought tend to fall short of intended figures for early-stage programs. FRES was spawned by the UK's withdrawal from the German-Dutch-UK Boxer MRAV modular wheeled APC program, in order to develop a more deployable vehicle that fit its exact requirements. Those initial requirements were challenging, and experience in Iraq and Afghanistan has led to some partial revisions. The UK MoD has taken some criticism for its selection of wheeled APCs as its infantry fighting vehicle choice, and even more criticism for making the Boxer MRAV one of the finalists after spending all those years and sterling on FRES development. The MoD is defending its choices, however, as the "Trials of Truth" get set to go in November 2007, and the program's "system of systems integrators" are announced.
12 October 2007

German Dutch Boxer wheeled armoured personnel carrier. The "Future Rapid Effects System" (FRES) is the UK's new transformational armored vehicle system, meant to fulfill many of the same kinds of roles as the Stryker Family of armored wheeled vehicles and/or the Future Combat Systems Manned Ground Vehicle family. Current estimates indicate a potential requirement for over 3,500 FRES vehicles, though DID readers are advised that in practice, actual numbers bought tend to fall short of intended figures for early-stage programs. FRES was spawned by the UK's withdrawal from the German-Dutch-UK Boxer MRAV modular wheeled APC program, in order to develop a more deployable vehicle that fit its exact requirements. Those initial requirements were challenging, and experience in Iraq and Afghanistan has led to some partial revisions. The UK MoD has taken some criticism for its selection of wheeled APCs as its infantry fighting vehicle choice, and even more criticism for making the Boxer MRAV one of the finalists after spending all those years and sterling on FRES development. The MoD is defending its choices, however, as the "Trials of Truth" get set to go in November 2007, and the program's "system of systems integrators" are announced.
German Dutch Boxer wheeled armoured personnel carrier

 

 

Turkey Back Menu
Kurdish rebels killed 13 Turkish soldiers in southeastern province of Sirnak at the Turkey-Iraq border.

A Turkish army tank is seen stationed near Cizre, some 35 kilometers from Turkish-Iraq border on Monday, Oct. 8, 2007, a day after Kurdish rebels killed 13 Turkish soldiers in southeastern province of Sirnak at the Turkey-Iraq border.Turkey has been pressing Iraq and the United States to hit bases of the rebel Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, in northern Iraq, and has considered a military operation across the border to root out the insurgents.
11 October 2007

Turkish M60A3 main battle tank picture. A Turkish army tank is seen stationed near Cizre, some 35 kilometers from Turkish-Iraq border on Monday, Oct. 8, 2007, a day after Kurdish rebels killed 13 Turkish soldiers in southeastern province of Sirnak at the Turkey-Iraq border.Turkey has been pressing Iraq and the United States to hit bases of the rebel Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, in northern Iraq, and has considered a military operation across the border to root out the insurgents. Turkish M60A3 main battle tank picture. A Turkish army tank is seen stationed near Cizre, some 35 kilometers from Turkish-Iraq border on Monday, Oct. 8, 2007, a day after Kurdish rebels killed 13 Turkish soldiers in southeastern province of Sirnak at the Turkey-Iraq border.Turkey has been pressing Iraq and the United States to hit bases of the rebel Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, in northern Iraq, and has considered a military operation across the border to root out the insurgents. Turkish M60A3 main battle tank picture. A Turkish army tank is seen stationed near Cizre, some 35 kilometers from Turkish-Iraq border on Monday, Oct. 8, 2007, a day after Kurdish rebels killed 13 Turkish soldiers in southeastern province of Sirnak at the Turkey-Iraq border.Turkey has been pressing Iraq and the United States to hit bases of the rebel Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, in northern Iraq, and has considered a military operation across the border to root out the insurgents.
Turkish M60A3 main battle tank picture Turkish M60A3 main battle tank picture Turkish M60A3 main battle tank picture
M60A3
Data Sheet
M60A3
Data Sheet
M60A3
Data Sheet

 

 

Saudi Arabia Back Menu
A second request for LAVs, Hummers, trucks, and weapons has been submitted, a contract of $600+ million for the Saudi National Guard.

In July 2006, "The 2006 Saudi Shopping Spree : A Hardened, Networked National Guard" explained the SANG's importance within the Saudi political structure, and covered a $5.8 billion request for LAVs wheeled armored personnel carriers, weapons, and C4ISR equipment to modernize that force. That official DSCA request has yet to be followed by a contract; when we talked to GDLS in October 2007, they said that negotiations were underway, and that they expect to complete a deal some time in 2008. In the mean time, a second request for LAVs, Hummers, trucks, and weapons has been submitted. At $600+ million, the October 2007 request on behalf of the Saudi Ministry of Defense and Aviation is comparatively small. Barring some unforseen Congressional resolution within 30 days, the clock can begin ticking on negotiations for a second set of LAVs and related equipment for different branch of the Saudi armed forces.
10 October 2007

US Army Humvee light wheeled vehicle picture. In July 2006, "The 2006 Saudi Shopping Spree : A Hardened, Networked National Guard" explained the SANG's importance within the Saudi political structure, and covered a $5.8 billion request for LAVs wheeled armored personnel carriers, weapons, and C4ISR equipment to modernize that force. That official DSCA request has yet to be followed by a contract; when we talked to GDLS in October 2007, they said that negotiations were underway, and that they expect to complete a deal some time in 2008. In the mean time, a second request for LAVs, Hummers, trucks, and weapons has been submitted. At $600+ million, the October 2007 request on behalf of the Saudi Ministry of Defense and Aviation is comparatively small. Barring some unforseen Congressional resolution within 30 days, the clock can begin ticking on negotiations for a second set of LAVs and related equipment for different branch of the Saudi armed forces. US Army LAV-25 wheeled armoured vehicle picture . In July 2006, "The 2006 Saudi Shopping Spree : A Hardened, Networked National Guard" explained the SANG's importance within the Saudi political structure, and covered a $5.8 billion request for LAVs wheeled armored personnel carriers, weapons, and C4ISR equipment to modernize that force. That official DSCA request has yet to be followed by a contract; when we talked to GDLS in October 2007, they said that negotiations were underway, and that they expect to complete a deal some time in 2008. In the mean time, a second request for LAVs, Hummers, trucks, and weapons has been submitted. At $600+ million, the October 2007 request on behalf of the Saudi Ministry of Defense and Aviation is comparatively small. Barring some unforseen Congressional resolution within 30 days, the clock can begin ticking on negotiations for a second set of LAVs and related equipment for different branch of the Saudi armed forces.
US Army Humvee light wheeled vehicle picture US Army LAV-25 wheeled armoured vehicle picture

 

 

Taiwan
Taiwanese military parade past guests during the R.O.C., Republic of China, National Day celebrations.

Taiwanese military military vehicles and armoured parade past guests during the R.O.C., Republic of China, National Day celebrations in Taipei, Taiwan, Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2007. Fighter jets streaked across overcast skies Wednesday as Taiwan held a National Day military parade for the first time since it halted such displays of war-fighting prowess in 1991 to ease tensions with rival China. See pictures gallery, lot of pictures available.
10 October 2007

Taiwanese military military vehicles and armoured parade past guests during the R.O.C., Republic of China, National Day celebrations in Taipei, Taiwan, Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2007. Fighter jets streaked across overcast skies Wednesday as Taiwan held a National Day military parade for the first time since it halted such displays of war-fighting prowess in 1991 to ease tensions with rival China. Taiwanese military military vehicles and armoured parade past guests during the R.O.C., Republic of China, National Day celebrations in Taipei, Taiwan, Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2007. Fighter jets streaked across overcast skies Wednesday as Taiwan held a National Day military parade for the first time since it halted such displays of war-fighting prowess in 1991 to ease tensions with rival China. Taiwanese military military vehicles and armoured parade past guests during the R.O.C., Republic of China, National Day celebrations in Taipei, Taiwan, Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2007. Fighter jets streaked across overcast skies Wednesday as Taiwan held a National Day military parade for the first time since it halted such displays of war-fighting prowess in 1991 to ease tensions with rival China.
Tawainese military parade Republic of China National Day pictures gallery Tawainese military parade Republic of China National Day pictures gallery Tawainese military parade Republic of China National Day pictures gallery

 

 

Germany Back Menu
A German Army main battle tank Leopard 2A6 being transported by ferry across the river, fell into the water.

Soldiers of the German armed forces Bundeswehr stand of on the banks of the River Elbe at the site of an accident where a German Army tank being transported by ferry across the river, fell into the water, near the eastern German town of Stendal October 9, 2007. One soldier was missing, while three other members of the crew of the Leopard II AS6 M tank escaped injury, police said.
09 October 2007

German armoured recovery vehicle Leopard 2 Buffel picture. Soldiers of the German armed forces Bundeswehr stand of on the banks of the River Elbe at the site of an accident where a German Army tank being transported by ferry across the river, fell into the water, near the eastern German town of Stendal October 9, 2007. One soldier was missing, while three other members of the crew of the Leopard II AS6 M tank escaped injury, police said. German main battle tank Leopard 2A6 picture. Soldiers of the German armed forces Bundeswehr stand of on the banks of the River Elbe at the site of an accident where a German Army tank being transported by ferry across the river, fell into the water, near the eastern German town of Stendal October 9, 2007. One soldier was missing, while three other members of the crew of the Leopard II AS6 M tank escaped injury, police said.
German armoured recovery vehicle Leopard 2 Buffel picture German main battle tank Leopard 2A6 picture
  LEOPARD
Data Sheet

 

 

United Kingdom Back Menu
140 More Mastiff blast-resistant wheeled armoured vehicle for the Britain Forces for use in Iraq and Afghanistan.

UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown announced on Oct 8/07 that Britain will buy another 140 blast-resistant Mastiff vehicles for use in Iraq and Afghanistan. The MoD intends to finalize the deal for this additional set vehicles "in the next few weeks," and has set aside GBP 100 million (about $200 million) for this purpose. This order would bring the total number of Mastiffs ordered to 248, with additional buys of blast-resistant vehicles scheduled via Britains’s MPPV program.
08 October 2007

British Army Mastiff Blast-Resistant wheeled armoured personnel carrier picture. UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown announced on Oct 8/07 that Britain will buy another 140 blast-resistant Mastiff vehicles for use in Iraq and Afghanistan. The MoD intends to finalize the deal for this additional set vehicles "in the next few weeks," and has set aside GBP 100 million (about $200 million) for this purpose. This order would bring the total number of Mastiffs ordered to 248, with additional buys of blast-resistant vehicles scheduled via Britains’s MPPV program.
British Army Mastiff Blast-Resistant wheeled armoured personnel carrier picture

 

 

Iraq Back Menu
$2.257B for Iraqi Army Guns, Vehicles & Logistics

In September 2006, “Up to $750M in Weapons & Support for Iraq” described Iraq's order for a number of American small arms, as well as helicopters and blast resistant vehicles. About a year later, we have a follow-on order that extends a number of the trends that request started. While the temptation exists to focus on the helicopters, blast-resistant vehicles, small arms, et. al., that would be a mistake. This is an extremely important contract for Iraq's armed forces, and none of those systems are the reason why.On Sept 25/07, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced [PDF format] Iraq's formal request for vehicles, small arms, ammunition, explosives, and communications equipment as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $2.257 billion. The request includes: M16A4 123,544 Assault rifle, 12,000 M4 Carbines, Munitions, upgrade and refurbishment of 32 additional UH-I HUEY helicopters to the UH-II configuration, 336 BTR-3E1 amphibious armored personnel carries,55 ILAV Badger wheeled armoured vehicle, 980 M1151 Humvee, jeeps and trucks.
07 October 2007

BTR-3E wheeled armoured personnel carrier pictureIn September 2006, “Up to $750M in Weapons & Support for Iraq” described Iraq's order for a number of American small arms, as well as helicopters and blast resistant vehicles. About a year later, we have a follow-on order that extends a number of the trends that request started. While the temptation exists to focus on the helicopters, blast-resistant vehicles, small arms, et. al., that would be a mistake. This is an extremely important contract for Iraq's armed forces, and none of those systems are the reason why.On Sept 25/07, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced [PDF format] Iraq's formal request for vehicles, small arms, ammunition, explosives, and communications equipment as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $2.257 billion. The request includes: M16A4 123,544 Assault rifle, 12,000 M4 Carbines, Munitions, upgrade and refurbishment of 32 additional UH-I HUEY helicopters to the UH-II configuration, 336 BTR-3E1 amphibious armored personnel carries,55 ILAV Badger wheeled armoured vehicle, 980 M1151 Humvee, jeeps and trucks. ILAV Badger wheeled armoured vehicle personnel carrier picture. In September 2006, “Up to $750M in Weapons & Support for Iraq” described Iraq's order for a number of American small arms, as well as helicopters and blast resistant vehicles. About a year later, we have a follow-on order that extends a number of the trends that request started. While the temptation exists to focus on the helicopters, blast-resistant vehicles, small arms, et. al., that would be a mistake. This is an extremely important contract for Iraq's armed forces, and none of those systems are the reason why.On Sept 25/07, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced [PDF format] Iraq's formal request for vehicles, small arms, ammunition, explosives, and communications equipment as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $2.257 billion. The request includes: M16A4 123,544 Assault rifle, 12,000 M4 Carbines, Munitions, upgrade and refurbishment of 32 additional UH-I HUEY helicopters to the UH-II configuration, 336 BTR-3E1 amphibious armored personnel carries,55 ILAV Badger wheeled armoured vehicle, 980 M1151 Humvee, jeeps and trucks. Humvee M1151 wheeled light armourd vehicle picture . In September 2006, “Up to $750M in Weapons & Support for Iraq” described Iraq's order for a number of American small arms, as well as helicopters and blast resistant vehicles. About a year later, we have a follow-on order that extends a number of the trends that request started. While the temptation exists to focus on the helicopters, blast-resistant vehicles, small arms, et. al., that would be a mistake. This is an extremely important contract for Iraq's armed forces, and none of those systems are the reason why.On Sept 25/07, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced [PDF format] Iraq's formal request for vehicles, small arms, ammunition, explosives, and communications equipment as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $2.257 billion. The request includes: M16A4 123,544 Assault rifle, 12,000 M4 Carbines, Munitions, upgrade and refurbishment of 32 additional UH-I HUEY helicopters to the UH-II configuration, 336 BTR-3E1 amphibious armored personnel carries,55 ILAV Badger wheeled armoured vehicle, 980 M1151 Humvee, jeeps and trucks.
BTR-3E wheeled armoured personnel carrier picture ILAV Badger wheeled armoured vehicle personnel carrier picture Humvee M1151 wheeled light armourd vehicle picture

 

 

Pakistan Back Menu
Pakistani lawyers attack an BRDM-2 armored car as they demonstrate against Pakistan's military ruler President Gen. Pervez Musharraf in Peshawar.

Pakistani lawyers attack an armored car BRDM-2 as they demonstrate against Pakistan's military ruler President Gen. Pervez Musharraf in Peshawar, Pakistan on Saturday, Oct. 6, 2007. Lawmakers were voting Saturday in a presidential election that Musharraf is expected to sweep, although he could yet face disqualification by the Supreme Court.
06 October 2007

Pakistani BRDM-2 wheeled armoured personnel carrier picture . Pakistani lawyers attack an armored car BRDM-2 as they demonstrate against Pakistan's military ruler President Gen. Pervez Musharraf in Peshawar, Pakistan on Saturday, Oct. 6, 2007. Lawmakers were voting Saturday in a presidential election that Musharraf is expected to sweep, although he could yet face disqualification by the Supreme Court.
Pakistani BRDM-2 wheeled armoured personnel carrier picture Pakistani BRDM-2 wheeled armoured personnel carrier picture
BRDM-2
Data Sheet
BRDM-2
Data Sheet

 

 

Australia Back Menu
Australia's A$ 450M-600M LAND 17 Artillery Replacement Gets Go-Ahead

In February 2006, the Australian Government gave first pass approval for the replacement of the ADF's current 105mm and 155mm artillery pieces with new, more capable, artillery systems that feature improved mobility, protection, range and accuracy. Current systems are all towed, and include the aged 105mm M2A2, theL119 Hamel 105 mm Field Gun, and the M198 155 mm howitzer. Options for replacing them include a mix of self-propelled artillery systems and lightweight towed artillery systems under an A$ 450-600 million project known as LAND 17. The project will also examine advanced high precision munitions and a networked command and fire control system.
A number of confirmed and possible contenders are listed below :
1. KMW & Rheinmetall PzH-2000NL tracked self-propelled 155mm howitzer.
2. The South Korean K9 Thunder
3. The BAE Bofors FH77-BW-L52 Archer
4. Nexter Ceasar 155 mm wheeled self-propelled 155 mm howitzer
5. The Ultra-Lightweight M777 howitzer.
02 October 2007

In February 2006, the Australian Government gave first pass approval for the replacement of the ADF's current 105mm and 155mm artillery pieces with new, more capable, artillery systems that feature improved mobility, protection, range and accuracy. Current systems are all towed, and include the aged 105mm M2A2, theL119 Hamel 105 mm Field Gun, and the M198 155 mm howitzer. Options for replacing them include a mix of self-propelled artillery systems and lightweight towed artillery systems under an A$ 450-600 million project known as LAND 17. The project will also examine advanced high precision munitions and a networked command and fire control system.  French Nexter Caesar wheeled self-propelled howitzer 155 mm picture Swedish BAE Systems Bofors-BW-L52 Archer picture. In February 2006, the Australian Government gave first pass approval for the replacement of the ADF's current 105mm and 155mm artillery pieces with new, more capable, artillery systems that feature improved mobility, protection, range and accuracy. Current systems are all towed, and include the aged 105mm M2A2, theL119 Hamel 105 mm Field Gun, and the M198 155 mm howitzer. Options for replacing them include a mix of self-propelled artillery systems and lightweight towed artillery systems under an A$ 450-600 million project known as LAND 17. The project will also examine advanced high precision munitions and a networked command and fire control system. South Korean K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer picture .  In February 2006, the Australian Government gave first pass approval for the replacement of the ADF's current 105mm and 155mm artillery pieces with new, more capable, artillery systems that feature improved mobility, protection, range and accuracy. Current systems are all towed, and include the aged 105mm M2A2, theL119 Hamel 105 mm Field Gun, and the M198 155 mm howitzer. Options for replacing them include a mix of self-propelled artillery systems and lightweight towed artillery systems under an A$ 450-600 million project known as LAND 17. The project will also examine advanced high precision munitions and a networked command and fire control system.
French Nexter Caesar wheeled self-propelled howitzer 155 mm picture Swedish BAE Systems Bofors-BW-L52 Archer picture South Korean K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer picture

 

 

United States Army to Afghanistan Back Menu
The U.S. military has launched a new 'Most Wanted' campaign offering rewards of up to US$200,000 for capture of 12 Taliban and al-Qaida leaders.

U.S. soldiers stand near an armored Humvee vehicle in Tagab district of Kapisa province, north of Kabul, Afghanistan on Thursday, Sept. 27, 2007. The U.S. military has launched a new 'Most Wanted' campaign offering rewards of up to US$200,000 for information leading to the capture of 12 Taliban and al-Qaida leaders. Posters and billboards are being put up around eastern Afghanistan with the names and pictures of the 12, with reward amounts ranging from US$20,000 to US$200,000. The list is filled with local insurgent cell leaders responsible for roadside and suicide bomb attacks.
01 October 2007

US Army Humvee light wheeled vehicle picture. U.S. soldiers stand near an armored Humvee vehicle in Tagab district of Kapisa province, north of Kabul, Afghanistan on Thursday, Sept. 27, 2007. The U.S. military has launched a new 'Most Wanted' campaign offering rewards of up to US$200,000 for information leading to the capture of 12 Taliban and al-Qaida leaders. Posters and billboards are being put up around eastern Afghanistan with the names and pictures of the 12, with reward amounts ranging from US$20,000 to US$200,000. The list is filled with local insurgent cell leaders responsible for roadside and suicide bomb attacks.
US Army Humvee light wheeled vehicle picture

 

 

Nigeria Back Menu
Twenty African Union soldiers in the Sudan were killed during the attack of the Haskanita base in Darfur.

An African Union Mission in the Sudan (AMIS) peacekeeper from Nigeria points to the blast point of a rocket-propelled grenade on a destroyed armoured personnel carrier at Haskanita military group site (MGS), October 1, 2007. Twenty AU soldiers were killed or injured and nine missing after a "deliberate and sustained" assault on the Haskanita base in Darfur on Saturday night by armed men in 30 vehicles, who looted and destroyed the base, the African Union said.
01 October 2007

Nigerian wheeled armoured personnel carrier Piranha I Grizzly picture. An African Union Mission in the Sudan (AMIS) peacekeeper from Nigeria points to the blast point of a rocket-propelled grenade on a destroyed armoured personnel carrier at Haskanita military group site (MGS), October 1, 2007. Twenty AU soldiers were killed or injured and nine missing after a "deliberate and sustained" assault on the Haskanita base in Darfur on Saturday night by armed men in 30 vehicles, who looted and destroyed the base, the African Union said. Nigerian wheeled armoured personnel carrier Piranha I Grizzly picture. An African Union Mission in the Sudan (AMIS) peacekeeper from Nigeria points to the blast point of a rocket-propelled grenade on a destroyed armoured personnel carrier at Haskanita military group site (MGS), October 1, 2007. Twenty AU soldiers were killed or injured and nine missing after a "deliberate and sustained" assault on the Haskanita base in Darfur on Saturday night by armed men in 30 vehicles, who looted and destroyed the base, the African Union said. Nigerian wheeled armoured personnel carrier Piranha I Grizzly picture. An African Union Mission in the Sudan (AMIS) peacekeeper from Nigeria points to the blast point of a rocket-propelled grenade on a destroyed armoured personnel carrier at Haskanita military group site (MGS), October 1, 2007. Twenty AU soldiers were killed or injured and nine missing after a "deliberate and sustained" assault on the Haskanita base in Darfur on Saturday night by armed men in 30 vehicles, who looted and destroyed the base, the African Union said.
Nigerian wheeled armoured personnel carrier Piranha I Grizzly picture Nigerian wheeled armoured personnel carrier Piranha I Grizzly picture Nigerian wheeled armoured personnel carrier Piranha I Grizzly picture

 

 

Iran Back Menu
Iran has presented a new medium-range ballistic missile the Ghadr-1 during the 22 September parade in Tehran.

Iran has presented what it claims is a new medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM), dubbed Ghadr-1 (Power-1), with a declared range of 1,800 km. However, experts examining the footage of the 22 September parade in Tehran where the missile was being displayed say that it appears identical to a previously shown Shahab 3 MRBM variant. The annual parade, which commemorates the anniversary of the beginning of Iran's 1980-88 war with Iraq, has been used to present weapons developed by Iran. The official announcer said that the new missile's range - 1,800 km - is "sufficient to put US bases in the Middle East and Israel within its reach". Uzi Rubin, former director of Israel's Ballistic Missile Defence Organisation, said: "It appears to be the same Shahab 3, with a 'baby bottle'-shaped re-entry vehicle [RV], which appeared in the 2004 parade and was then claimed to have a range of 2,000 km. The pictures indicate no justification for announcing a new missile." Other defence sources also affirmed that they do not recognise any new missile. The older Shahab 3 variant, with a conical, 'dunce cap'-shaped RV, was claimed this time to have a range of 1,300 km. "Since they have already claimed to have a Shahab missile with 2,000 km range, I don't see the rationale of declaring a new missile for 1,800 km," said Rubin. The Iranian weekly Sobh-e Sadeq, the mouthpiece of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei distributed among Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), has reported that the range of the Iranian-made Ghadr-1 missile, shown here in a military parade on September 23, is 2,500 km.
01 0ctober 2007

Iranian medium-range ballistic missile Ghadr-1 picture. Iran has presented what it claims is a new medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM), dubbed Ghadr-1 (Power-1), with a declared range of 1,800 km. However, experts examining the footage of the 22 September parade in Tehran where the missile was being displayed say that it appears identical to a previously shown Shahab 3 MRBM variant. The annual parade, which commemorates the anniversary of the beginning of Iran's 1980-88 war with Iraq, has been used to present weapons developed by Iran. The official announcer said that the new missile's range - 1,800 km - is "sufficient to put US bases in the Middle East and Israel within its reach". Uzi Rubin, former director of Israel's Ballistic Missile Defence Organisation, said: "It appears to be the same Shahab 3, with a 'baby bottle'-shaped re-entry vehicle [RV], which appeared in the 2004 parade and was then claimed to have a range of 2,000 km. The pictures indicate no justification for announcing a new missile." Other defence sources also affirmed that they do not recognise any new missile. The older Shahab 3 variant, with a conical, 'dunce cap'-shaped RV, was claimed this time to have a range of 1,300 km. "Since they have already claimed to have a Shahab missile with 2,000 km range, I don't see the rationale of declaring a new missile for 1,800 km," said Rubin. The Iranian weekly Sobh-e Sadeq, the mouthpiece of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei distributed among Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), has reported that the range of the Iranian-made Ghadr-1 missile, shown here in a military parade on September 23, is 2,500 km. Iranian medium-range ballistic missile Ghadr-1 picture. Iran has presented what it claims is a new medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM), dubbed Ghadr-1 (Power-1), with a declared range of 1,800 km. However, experts examining the footage of the 22 September parade in Tehran where the missile was being displayed say that it appears identical to a previously shown Shahab 3 MRBM variant. The annual parade, which commemorates the anniversary of the beginning of Iran's 1980-88 war with Iraq, has been used to present weapons developed by Iran. The official announcer said that the new missile's range - 1,800 km - is "sufficient to put US bases in the Middle East and Israel within its reach". Uzi Rubin, former director of Israel's Ballistic Missile Defence Organisation, said: "It appears to be the same Shahab 3, with a 'baby bottle'-shaped re-entry vehicle [RV], which appeared in the 2004 parade and was then claimed to have a range of 2,000 km. The pictures indicate no justification for announcing a new missile." Other defence sources also affirmed that they do not recognise any new missile. The older Shahab 3 variant, with a conical, 'dunce cap'-shaped RV, was claimed this time to have a range of 1,300 km. "Since they have already claimed to have a Shahab missile with 2,000 km range, I don't see the rationale of declaring a new missile for 1,800 km," said Rubin. The Iranian weekly Sobh-e Sadeq, the mouthpiece of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei distributed among Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), has reported that the range of the Iranian-made Ghadr-1 missile, shown here in a military parade on September 23, is 2,500 km. Iranian medium-range ballistic missile Ghadr-1 picture. Iran has presented what it claims is a new medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM), dubbed Ghadr-1 (Power-1), with a declared range of 1,800 km. However, experts examining the footage of the 22 September parade in Tehran where the missile was being displayed say that it appears identical to a previously shown Shahab 3 MRBM variant. The annual parade, which commemorates the anniversary of the beginning of Iran's 1980-88 war with Iraq, has been used to present weapons developed by Iran. The official announcer said that the new missile's range - 1,800 km - is "sufficient to put US bases in the Middle East and Israel within its reach". Uzi Rubin, former director of Israel's Ballistic Missile Defence Organisation, said: "It appears to be the same Shahab 3, with a 'baby bottle'-shaped re-entry vehicle [RV], which appeared in the 2004 parade and was then claimed to have a range of 2,000 km. The pictures indicate no justification for announcing a new missile." Other defence sources also affirmed that they do not recognise any new missile. The older Shahab 3 variant, with a conical, 'dunce cap'-shaped RV, was claimed this time to have a range of 1,300 km. "Since they have already claimed to have a Shahab missile with 2,000 km range, I don't see the rationale of declaring a new missile for 1,800 km," said Rubin. The Iranian weekly Sobh-e Sadeq, the mouthpiece of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei distributed among Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), has reported that the range of the Iranian-made Ghadr-1 missile, shown here in a military parade on September 23, is 2,500 km.
Iranian medium-range ballistic missile Ghadr-1 picture Iranian medium-range ballistic missile Ghadr-1 picture Iranian medium-range ballistic missile Ghadr-1 picture