August 2023 News Global Defence & Security Industry - Military |
|
|
 |
According to an article by Army Technology on August 31, 2023, the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has initiated discussions with the defense industry regarding the potential procurement of more than 1,000 4x4 and all-terrain vehicles. This initiative falls within the framework of the Light Tactical Mobility Platform (LTMP) program, comprising both the LTMP Medium and LTMP Light components.
Sensor solution provider HENSOLDT and ERA, a company specializing in Air Traffic Control (ATC) and passive surveillance systems, announced a strategic partnership. The collaboration aims to enhance air surveillance and defense capabilities, with a particular focus on offering the Passive Surveillance System VERA-NG to the German Luftwaffe.
Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of military head protection systems and intelligent power and data management solutions, has established a strategic partnership with the UK-based global Defence composites company, NP Aerospace. The relationship is announced as the first batch of NP-produced product is accepted and ready to deliver, and marks NP Aerospace becoming a key helmet production partner. NP Aerospace is manufacturing Galvion’s proprietary helmet designs to stringent production specifications and delivering to Galvion’s local UK and continental Europe customer base.
On August 31, 2023, the Japanese Ministry of Defense unveiled its budget proposal for the fiscal year 2024, totaling a record 7.7385 trillion yen, which is approximately equivalent to $53.3 billion in US dollars. This budget request surpasses the initial allocation of 6.8219 trillion yen (approximately $47.1 billion) for the ongoing fiscal year 2023, reflecting Japan's efforts to boost its military capabilities amidst heightened regional security concerns.
General Dynamics European Land Systems – Bridge Systems (GDELS) and Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) have presented the Anaconda tactical bridge-laying system at the 5th User Forum Armament and Utilization – RÜ.NET 2023 in Koblenz, Germany. The system integrates advanced bridge-laying mechanisms with the high-mobility 8x8 HX2 carrier vehicle.
According to a tweet by IntelDrop on August 30, 2023, Russia has delivered a new batch of at least 10 Iskander-M ballistic missile vehicles to Belarus. These vehicles were transported by train from Kapustin Yar in the Astrakhan region of Russia to the Asipovichy station in the Mohyla region of Belarus. Reports indicate that the Iskander-M ballistic missile systems have been integrated into the Belarusian Armed Forces, and additional shipments of Iskander missiles are anticipated to arrive in Belarus.
According to a tweet from Cloooud dated August 30, 2023, the Kozak-2M1, an Ukrainian Armored Personnel Carrier, has been spotted near the frontline. This vehicle, equipped with a remote-controlled machine gun turret, is a testament to Ukraine's ongoing efforts to produce and improve its own combat vehicles, even amidst conflict. It has been specifically designed for airborne brigades and special operations forces.
Raytheon, a subsidiary of RTX, has secured a $7 million contract to advance the development and evaluation of its GhostEye MR radar. This sophisticated medium-range sensor is intended for integration into the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS), and this marks the initial government contracts for the GhostEye MR radar. Raytheon had independently designed and developed this multi-mission radar through internal research and development investments. The funding from these contracts will be utilized to further the radar's development and facilitate operational assessment activities at the White Sands Missile Range later this year.
Based on information circulating on Russian social media as of August 28, 2023, there are indications that Russia might be in the developmental stages of a 6x6 Multiple Launch Drone System (MLDS) intended for the latest iteration of Lancet kamikaze drones.
On August 30, 2023, the Nigerian Armed Forces acquired TOGAN and BAHA Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from Turkish defense companies. This acquisition is part of Nigeria's broader strategy to modernize its defense capabilities, particularly in the areas of surveillance and intelligence. This reinforcement comes as tensions between ECOWAS and the military dictatorships in the Sahel region show no signs of abating.
According to an article by Soldat und Technik on August 30, 2023, General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) unveils a new demonstrator based on the Pandur EVO 6x6 APC at the RüNET 2023 event in Koblenz, Germany. It is equipped with an Elbit Systems unmanned UT-30 turret and a Bushmaster 30mm autocannon. Additionally, it can potentially be fitted with a 25mm cannon and optional anti-tank guided missile systems. This initiative seems to be aimed at the Bundeswehr's New Generation Reconnaissance Vehicle project.
On August 28, 2023, new images surfaced on Russian social media platforms about the air defense systems employed by the Ethiopian Armed Forces. These images provide insights into the presence of air defense systems such as the Russian Pantsir-S2 and the Ukrainian ST-68UM radar station within Ethiopia's military setup. The Ethiopian military utilizes a range of air defense systems, which are strategically deployed to protect key assets like the controversial Hidase hydroelectric dam.
A tweet from Samuel Bendett dated August 29, 2023, describes a Russian DIY Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) capable of carrying up to 100 kg with a two-hour operational duration. The origin of this UGV is unclear, as is the number of units produced. This tweet highlights the growing trend of DIY UGVs appearing on the front lines, not only in Russia but also in Ukraine.
On August 25, 2023, the Spanish Marine Infantry finalized a deal for the purchase of 25 AXMC precision rifles. Manufactured by the British company Accuracy International, these rifles are equipped in .338 caliber and offer a range exceeding 1,500 meters. The contract, valued at nearly half a million euros, was signed with Madrid-based distributor Pulex 95.
Based on the observation of the course of battles in Ukraine, Spanish strategists conclude that a deep reform of the army structure was necessary, topwar.ru reports, echoing defensa.com: "The lesson of the Ukrainian conflict was the conclusion that changes at the front are happening very quickly", the Spanish Ministry of Defense believes.
On August 29, 2023, the French government announced the tragic loss of a French soldier from the CPA10 (10th Air Parachute Commando) during a mission in Iraq cast a spotlight on this elite unit of the French Air and Space Force. As the nation mourns the brave soul, it's crucial to understand the significance of the CPA10 and its role in global military operations.
According to an article on topwar.ru, Valentin Kiselev, who heads the Moscow office of Roboavia, a Russian company specializing in drone development for the military, revealed the company's plans to enhance its production capabilities by inaugurating a second manufacturing facility.
On August 28, 2023, SmartShooter, a company specializing in fire control systems, announced the launch of its new Australian branch, SMASH Australia Pty Ltd. This expansion is part of the company's ongoing global growth strategy, which already includes operations in Europe, the United States, and a headquarters in Israel. The Australian subsidiary will focus on contributing to the local industry and enhancing Australia's sovereign capabilities.
On August 25, 2023, Ukrainian company Bronetehnika LLC delivered the first batch of 1,000 122mm fragmentation artillery shells to the army. These shells were produced in collaboration with an Eastern European ammunition holding. The 122mm shells, called "Air," are designed to be compatible with the Russian-made D-30 and 2S1 artillery systems.
On August 24, an interdepartmental meeting was held in Bulgaria to discuss the acquisition of 7 new 3D radars for modernizing the country's armed forces and improving airspace surveillance. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Minister of Defense Stanimir Georgiev and Colonel Dimitar Georgiev. Five leading defense companies—Lockheed Martin, Leonardo, Elta, Indra, and Thales—presented their radar proposals.
On August 29, Poongsan Corp., a prominent copper smelter and defense equipment manufacturer in South Korea, revealed a significant achievement. According to a report by Jae-Fu Kim in The Korea Economic Daily, the company successfully developed an extended-range projectile with a caliber of 155 mm. This projectile has met all the prescribed test and evaluation criteria outlined in the Korean Defense Specification.
As reported by Tanim News Agency, Iran has unveiled its indigenous 'Tactical Sayyad' air defense system, boasting advanced capabilities for target detection and engagement. According to Afshin Naderi Sharif, the Iranian Deputy Defense Minister for Research and Industrial Affairs, the system demonstrates the ability to detect up to 24 targets within a range of 180 kilometers, while simultaneously engaging 6 to 12 of these targets within a 120-kilometer radius.
On August 28, 2023, photos were posted on Twitter by @SolarMare, showcasing the Thales Hawkei PMV (Protected Mobility Vehicle) undergoing cold weather tests. The vehicle is one of the contenders for the Canadian Armed Forces' Light Utility Vehicle (LUV) project.
On August 29, 2023, the Spanish Army initiated a new tender. This procurement involves the purchase of 17,000 high-explosive 120mm mortar grenades, with a total budget of €8.4 million, including taxes. The high-intensity conflict unfolding in Ukraine has demonstrated that ammunition, shells, and mortar munitions stocks are far from sufficient to support a large-scale conflict. Many nations are, therefore, bolstering their already depleted stocks due to substantial donations to Ukraine, and Spain is no exception.
According to an article by InfoDefensa on August 28, 2023, the Colombian Armed Forces have initiated the process of introducing a new armored vehicle into their fleet, designed to provide mine resistance, known as the Armor International Hunter TR-12-23 MRAP.
