Charles Forrester, London – IHS Jane’s Defence Industry
29 September 2016
South African defence equipment manufacturer Denel Dynamics has reportedly signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Saudi Arabian firm ITAEC Group to potentially manufacture anti-tank missiles in the country.
The MoU was reportedly signed at the Africa Aerospace and Defence tradeshow, held in South Africa, on 16 September, but only reported by South African news website Defenceweb on 26 September.
Under the MoU, the Ingwe anti-tank guided missile could be marketed and potentially manufactured in Saudi Arabia. A demonstration firing of the missile, mounted on a vehicle, reportedly took place earlier in 2016.
The Ingwe is an improved variant of the South African-developed ZT3 Swift missile, originally developed in the late 1980s.
DENEL AND SAUDI COMPANY ITEAC GROUP AGREE TO JOINTLY MARKET INGWE
Bilal Khan Sep 26, 2016
ANTI-TANK MISSILE TO SAUDI ARABIA
Denel Dynamics and ITEAC Group, a Saudi company, recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly market Denel’s Ingwe anti-tank missile to the Saudi armed forces.
According to defenceWeb, the MoU was signed on 16 September at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) air show and exhibition.
By partnering with ITEAC Group, Denel Dynamics is hoping to demonstrate its enthusiasm towards Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objective of sourcing over 50% of defence acquisitions domestically. Should a sale come to fruition, ITEAC Group will manufacture (at least partly) the Ingwe missiles in Saudi Arabia.
Notes, Comments & Analysis:
The ZT3 Ingwe was developed in the 1980s and brought into South African military service in 1987. It is a laser-guided anti-tank missile (ATGM) capable of being deployed by infantry and usable from helicopters and armoured vehicles. The Ingwe ATGM has a range of 250 metres to 5,000 metres.
If successful, an Ingwe sale would be Denel Group’s first major sale to Saudi Arabia. Like its current deals with the United Arab Emirates, an Ingwe sale would function through a commercial offset and technology transfer agreement.
This would also be the South African defence industry’s second major sale to Saudi Arabia; in April 2016, a local munitions production site at al-Kharj built with the support of Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) (which is 49% owned by Denel Group) under a $240 million U.S. sale.
Generous commercial offset clauses and flexible transfer-of-technology terms are a critical component of the South African defence industry’s drive to access lucrative overseas markets. Besides Denel Group and RDM, Paramount Group – South Africa’s largest private sector defence vendor – is also entering into very similar sorts of agreements in the Middle East and Central Asia.
Originally a Kentron product, the Denel ZT3 Ingwe (Afrikaans for “Leopard”) was developed by South Africa’s Project Raleigh, as a complement to the SADF’s ageing MILAN ATGM, and as a successor to that weapon for use on vehicles. It is unmistakably a BGM-71 TOW variant, despite the official claim that it was developed solely in South Africa.
Image @denel.co.za
The most interesting twist is that how the technology used in its guidance system could have ended up in the hands of the South African military-industrial complex has never been clarified, but events have shown that it might have been stolen from the US. Soon after the Ingwe was first unveiled in public the US government and defense industry realized it was virtually identical to an experimental variant of the TOW that was undergoing testing in the US at the time — a variant which, at the time, was still a top secret program. How this technology ended up in South Africa is still unexplained by both US and South African authorities, though it is almost certain that espionage was involved.
The Ingwe employs semi-active laser guidance. The target is illuminated by a spot from a laser designator, which the missile actively seeks. This system has the advantages of being invulnerable to radio jamming and/or interference, none of the flight limitations imposed by wire guidance, and the ability of the launch platform to remain completely behind cover without having to expose itself (i.e., the missile may be guided by a laser designator other than the one on the launch platform, such as by troops, a helicopter, a ground vehicle, etc.). It is also possible to “ripple fire” laser-guided missiles; if several are launched in rapid succession, the second one can be directed to a second target after the impact of the first, and so on, until multiple missiles have destroyed multiple targets in rapid succession. However, the recent advent of laser detectors and dazzlers entails that laser guidance is no longer stealthy or safe from jamming.
The effective range of the Ingwe is 5 000 m, which is considerably longer than any wire-guided TOW variant; this is likely resulted from a combination of eliminating the guidance cable, and the installation of a more powerful rocket motor (which was also made possible by eliminating the cable as well, as it limited how fast the missile could fly without damaging the guidance system). The minimum effective range is still quite long, at 250 m. The claimed flight speed is 200 m/sec, which is slightly faster than the average speed of a TOW at 187 m/sec.
Propulsion is by a single-stage, solid fuel rocket motor. The quantity and composition of the fuel is classified, but likely contain organic chemical compounds.
At least three warheads have been developed for the Ingwe. The original ZT3A missile had a shaped charge warhead rated to penetrate 650 mm or RHA Steel, while the improved ZT-3B has a tandem shaped charge warhead that is rated to penetrate 1 000 mm or RHA Steel, after ERA. A new type of warhead unveiled at the IDEX 2013 exposition, dubbed the MPP (Multi Purpose Penetrator) has been developed for use against light armor and material targets (unarmored vehicles, parked aircraft, structures, trucks, etc.), but the MPP has apparently not yet been adopted.
The Lockheed Martin C-130 is the US Air Force principal tactical cargo and personnel transport aircraft. The C-130J Hercules is the latest model, featuring a glass cockpit, digital avionics and a new propulsion system with a six-bladed propeller.
Lockheed Martin
The C-130 has been in continuous production since 1954 and more than 2,500 Hercules were built for 63 countries.
C-130J transport aircraft upgrade
C-130J design features Image @shopify.com
The improvements built into the C-130J, which entered production in 1997, have enhanced the performance of the aircraft in terms of its range, cruise ceiling time to climb, speed and airfield requirements.
Image @theaviationzone.com
The new C-130J Hercules II incorporates state-of-the-art technology to reduce manpower requirements by 38 percent, lower operating and support costs by 35 percent, and provide life cycle cost savings of 15 percent over earlier C-130 models. The C-130J also climbs faster and higher — 14 minutes to 28,000 feet (8,534m); flies farther at a higher cruise speed — 2,430 nm (4,500km) at 450 mph (724km/h); and can takeoff and land in a shorter distance — 1,950 feet (594m). Source theaviationzone.com
A stretched version, the C-130J-30 has been developed and designated the CC-130J by the USAF. The first C-130J-30 for the UK RAF (the launch customer) was delivered in November 1999.
C-130J-30 of the RAF
RAF C-130J – maddmaxxtsf Y-Maxime YouTube
The C-130J entered active service with the USAF at Little Rock Air Force Base in April 2004 and was first deployed in December 2004.
The first of five C-130J Super Hercules aircraft intended for deployment at Little Rock left Lockheed Martin’s facility, for delivery to the base, in August 2013.
The first combat airdrop for the USAF was in July 2005. The US Air Mobility Command declared initial operating capability for the C-130J in October 2006.
The US Air Force awarded a $167m block upgrade contract to Lockheed Martin in December 2011 to overhaul the C-130J Hercules with Block 8.1 configuration.
Lockheed Martin chooses AVIATOR 700D SATCOM avionics for block 8.1 upgrade to C-130J military turboprop aircraft
The C-130J avionics upgrade will use the AVIATOR 700D SwiftBroadband and classic aero service satellite communications system from Thrane & Thrane that can be tailored to any airframe, company officials say. The deal is worth $24.8 million.
The AVIATOR 700D is a compact SATCOM design that combines high gain antenna (HGA) that offers voice dialling from the cockpit multifunction control display units, with Level D software and hardware.
The system complies to the Future Air Navigation System (FANS) 1/A, controller pilot data link communications (CPDLC), and voice safety service operations via the system’s cockpit data and voice channels.
The AVIATOR 700D provides access to six separate channels for voice and data service, simultaneous voice calling, and secure data transfer. The system will enable C-130J crews to make voice calls, send e-mail, browse the internet, and stream video with several different users simultaneously.
The SATCOM system also has built-in wireless capability to create an aircraft Wi-Fi hotspot for in-flight use of smart phones, personal tablets, and laptop computers. Crew members can access video conferencing and seamless VPN access over Wi-Fi.
The Lockheed Martin block 8.1 upgrade involves more than 200 aircraft that will be rolled out between 2014 to 2018. The SATCOM system will support the air traffic management data link component of the Block 8.1 upgrade. Source militaryaerospace.com
The Block 8.1 configuration contains software and hardware capability expansion such as modernised identification friend or foe (IFF), automatic dependent surveillance broadcast, communication, navigation and air traffic management datalink.
U.S. Air Force tests C-130J with Block 8.1 upgrades
Scheduled for FY09, includes full Civil Required Navigation Compliance (RNP), Joint Tactical Radio System and Advanced Situation Awareness and Countermeasure System Phase II. Customer options include AN/ALR-56MRWR, AN/AAR-47MWS, AN/ALE-47CMDS and AN/AAQ-22 Star SafireFLIR system. Source scramble.nl
The C-130J is crewed by two pilots and a loadmaster. The new glass cockpit features four L-3 display systems multifunction liquid crystal displays for flight control and navigation systems.
Each pilot has a Flight Dynamics head-up display (HUD). The dual mission computers, supplied by BAE Systems IEWS, operate and monitor the aircraft systems and advise the crew of status.
Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules (L-382) – Italy – Air Force | Aviation Photo #0904385 | Airliners @airliners.net
The HUD and the navigation mode can project flight parameters related to the navigation, such as checkpoints, time them and even indicate whether there is a deviation from the course that can be verified in a cartographic presenter with a digital map. This facilitates tactical navigation, especially at low altitude and maintains permanently the view of both crew out of the instrument panel to increase external monitoring. Source taringa.net
The C-130J pilots for tactical flight at low altitude have several aid to improve the safety of the operation, particularly the TAWS system (terrain awareness warning system) or warning system and “conscience” of the land that is in similar to the proximity indicators of land (EGPWS) equipment but including a database of terrain and obstacles around the world, allowing for safe navigation and unobtrusive when not to use the radar. The data are projected onto the flight path and intensity of the color indicates different levels of terrain altitude as flight altitude of C-130J. Source taringa.net
The cockpit is fitted with the Northrop Grumman low-power colour radar display. The map display shows digitally stored map image data.
Image @captainsim.org
The C-130J is equipped with a Honeywell dual embedded global positioning system / inertial navigation system (GPS/INS), an enhanced traffic alerting and collision avoidance system (E-TCAS), a ground collision avoidance system, SKE2000 station keeping system, and an instrument landing system (ILS).
Allow up to 36 aircraft on 4 different frequency channels to fly instrumented formation in zero visibility.
With the help of the AN/APN-243, aircraft can operate within a 10 nm radius of a selected participating master system on the same frequency, allowing for close contact between aircraft. The system is also designed for easy, accessible upgrade, with reduced weight, size and cost.
The AN/APN-243 upgrades earlier versions of SKE or fully integrates with new or existing mission computers and flight management systems, maintaining complete interoperability with more than 800 installed systems of Air Forces worldwide. Source drs.com
SYSTEM COMPONENTS CONTROL MODULE (CM)
Weight 24 lbs. (10.9 kg)
Dimensions 7.0 H x 11.9 W x 15.0 D inches (17.8 H x 30.2 W x 38.1 cm)
Power 24 VDC @ 4 amps
Cooling Natural convection
Mounting Sheet metal tray, no isolators
TRANSMIT/RECEIVE MODULE (TRM)
Weight 8.6 lbs. (3.9 kg)
Dimensions 6.9 H x 5.6 W x 10.8 D inches (17.5 H x 14.2 W x 27.4 D cm)
Power From the CM input power +140 VDC +/- 5% @ 1/3 amp
Cooling Natural convection
Mounting Sheet metal mount, no isolators
Source drsdev.azurewebsites.net
In July 2008, Lockheed Martin announced the following would be included in the baseline configuration of new C-130Js: Elbit Systems global digital map unit and the TacView portable mission display and InegrFlight commercial GPS landing system sensor unit, supplied by CMC of Canada.
The TacView® Portable Mission Display (PMD) is a compact, self-contained mission computer designed specifically to enhance situational awareness for military, paramilitary, law enforcement, and civil aircrews. TacView provides mission enhancing functionality at the flight crew’s fingertips, with a data interface no other airborne portable computer can provide.
TacView® PMD Applications
Situational awareness only happens with the right tools. TacView® is the portable mission tool that links the crew to the networked battlefield and facilitates mission planning in a paperless cockpit.
Application Flexibility
The TacView® PMD software environment is supported by a Windows 7 operating system. This allows greater application flexibility and empowers the air crew to select applications best suited to their conditions. Types of applications supported on TacView® include:
Additional applications are available that enable note-taking, image sharing, post-flight maintenance debrief, mission rehearsal/review, charting and embedded training.
When coupled with optical or infrared video sources such as CMC’s SureSight® I-Series™ Enhanced Vision System (EVS), the combined TacView/EVS system improves flight crew situational awareness by helping them see through fog, haze, precipitation and at night for increased mission effectiveness.
The cargo bay of the C-130J has a total usable volume of more than 4,500ft³ and can accommodate loads up to 37,216lb. For example, three armoured personnel carriers, five pallets, 74 litters (stretchers), 92 equipped combat troops or 64 paratroops. The bay is equipped with cargo handling rollers, tie-down rings, stowage containers and stowage for troop seats.
Countermeasures
Image @defenceindustrydaily.com
The ATK AN/AAR-47 missile warning system uses electro-optic sensors to detect missile exhaust and advanced signal processing algorithms and spectral selection to analyse and prioritise threats. Sensors are mounted near the nose just below the second cockpit window and in the tail cone.
The AN/AAR-47 passively detects missiles by their Ultraviolet signature,and uses algorithms to differentiate between incoming missiles and false alarms. Newer versions also have laser warning sensors and are capable of detecting a wider range of threats. After processing the nature of the threat, the system gives the pilot an audio and visual warning, and indicates the direction of the incoming threat. It also sends a signal to the aircraft’s infrared countermeasures system, which can then for example deploy flares.
Components
The AAR-47 missile warning system consists of 4 Optical Sensor Converters (OSC), a Computer Processor and a Control Indicator. The system is relatively light at a total weight of approximately 32 pounds.
There is one optical sensor converter for each side of the aircraft. They have an infrared camera for detecting incoming missiles. The Optical modules since version AAR-47(V)2 include a laser warning sensor, and versions since AAR-47A(V)2 further incorporate an ultraviolet sensor for improved dynamic blanking laser warning detection.
The computer processor evaluates the data from the OSC:s and analyzes whether a detected event is an incoming missile. If a threat is detected, it sends a signal to the control indicator which informs the crew, and the aircraft’s infrared countermeasures system. Source revolvy.com
The BAE Systems AN/ALR-56M radar warning receiver is a superheterodyne receiver operating in the 2GHz to 20GHz bands. A low-band antenna and four high-band quadrant antennae are installed near the nose section below the second window of the cockpit and in the tail cone.
BAE Systems AN/ALR-56M radar warning receiver
AN/ALR-56M
Advanced Radar Warning Receiver System
– U.S. Air Force standard advanced RWR
– Unambiguous threat detection/ identification
– Advanced architecture for high-density environment
– C-J band coverage — growth to MMW and other bands
– Designed for easy RF compatibility/ interoperability with a wide range of aircraft and EW avionics
The BAE Systems Integrated Defence Solutions (formerly Tracor) AN/ALE-47 countermeasures system is capable of dispensing chaff and infra-red flares in addition to the POET and GEN-X active expendable decoys.
AN/ALE-47 countermeasures system
In response to automated warnings of radar, infrared, laser and other threats against aircraft, the AN/ALE-47 Countermeasures Dispenser System (CMDS) both assists the crew in staying aware of the threats, and managing the deployment of electronic warfare devices that operate externally to the vehicle. “Electronic”, in this context, covers enemy sensors across the electromagnetic spectrum. Electronic defense includes, as well as receivers and computers that detect and analyze threats, both countermeasures that are part of the aircraft, but also expendables that are released from it.
The Lockheed Martin AN/ALQ-157 infra-red countermeasures system generates a varying frequency-agile infrared jamming signal. The infrared transmitter is surface mounted at the aft end of the main undercarriage bay fairing.
AN/ALQ-157 infra-red countermeasures system
The AN/ALQ-157 Infrared Countermeasures (IRCM) system offers continuous, multi-threat jamming for helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft protection.
AN/ALQ-157 IRCM System – Image @kilopops.livejournal.com
The AN/ALQ-157 IRCM System protects large, heavy-lift helicopters and medium-sized, fixed-wing aircraft from Band I, II infrared threats, including first-generation surface-to-air and air-to-air missiles. It can defeat multiple threats simultaneously and employ “jam-in-tube” capability for certain threats. With continuous active jamming and extreme adaptability features, the AN/ALQ-157 system provides constant protection.
The USAF has selected the Northrop Grumman Large Aircraft Infra-red Countermeasures (LAIRCM) system to equip its C-130 aircraft. LAIRCM is based on the AN/AAQ-24(V) NEMESIS.
LAIRCM is based on the AN/AAQ-24(V) NEMESIS
The AN/AAQ-24(V) Directional Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) system is the only DIRCM system in production today that will protect aircraft from today’s infrared guided missiles.
Traditional IR countermeasures are not effective against the modern IR missiles that are growing in popularity among terrorist groups and in thirdworld countries. A Directional Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) system is required to defeat the latest and future advanced IR threats, and has a lower life cycle cost compared to other IR countermeasure approaches.
Simultaneously tracks and defeats threats in clutter environments
Fast, accurate threat detection and simultaneous jamming in all current IR threat Bands (I, II and IV)
Counters all fielded IR missile threats using a single generic jam waveform
Complete end-to-end self-testing features reduce life-cycle maintenance
Compatible with existing support facilities
Customized installation
The AAQ-24(V) is available in a laser-based configuration. Northrop Grumman then selects from a modular family of transmitters, jammers and missile warning systems to provide a customized installation best able to meet your specific platform, mission and budget requirements. Upgrades to existing systems are easy to install without further airframe modifications.
It entered low-rate initial production in August 2002 and completed initial operational test and evaluation in July 2004.
A five-year delivery order for the system was placed by the USAF in July 2006. Australia requested the sale of LAIRCM to equip its fleet of 12 C-130J in May 2008.
The Northrop Grumman MODAR 4,000-colour weather and navigation radar is installed in the upward-hinged dielectric radome in the nose of the aircraft. The weather radar has a range of 250nm.
The radar C-130J Initially the Super Hercules had a navigation radar and weather MODAR 4000 Northrop-Grummam with a detection range of 460 km, which was quickly replaced by the multimode AN / APN-241 radar derived from the APG-66 F-16 offers different modes meteorology and navigation with a range of close to 600 km detection and also provides mapping, air- to -ground, air- to -air marking and SAR high resolution mode. in the mode of high resolution mapping can be coupled to the navigation system inertial and thus provide a navigation precision in addition with overprint of weather information and the C-130J defense system. Source taringa.net
AN / APN-241 radar
The only radar in the transport class with a high resolution SAR mapping mode
The AN/APN-241’s capability remains unmatched by the competition as the only radar in the transport class with a high resolution SAR mapping mode. In addition to meeting needs for precision navigation, this unparalleled mapping capability enables operators to execute landing missions with confidence on unimproved runways without aid from ground-based landing systems.
No other radar in the industry can compete with the range and accuracy of the AN/APN-241. It is the only radar with a 10nm range Windshear mode and its unique two-bar can technology eliminates false alarms. And, unlike other systems, the AN/APN-241 windshear mode is not restricted by altitude. At 20 nautical miles, the AN/APN-241 provides the longest range air-to-air situational awareness mode of any transport radar. The Skin Paint mode also features computer generated target-sizing, a clutter-free display, and hands-free operation to the crew.
Simultaneous multifunction capability
The AN/APN-241 is designed to allow pilots to focus on the mission rather than “working” the radar. Automatic tilt and gain adjustments reduce operator tasking, and with simultaneous mode interleaving, crews can select independent radar modes according to mission requirements. The AN/APN-241 provides overlays of flight plan or TCAS information on weather or ground maps for greater situational awareness. Operators may also ‘freeze’ the AN/APN-241 into a non-emitting mode to gain a tactical advantage.
The AN/APN-241 was built with growth in mind. Modifications to current modes and technologies will provide a maritime patrol capability suitable for fisheries protection, smuggling interdiction, and Search and Rescue missions. With the development of ‘Ballistic Wind’ mode, a modification which will measure drop zone winds, the AN/APN-241 provides a unique air drop capability to support both military and humanitarian missions.
Proven versatility
The highly adaptable AN/APN-241 is currently fielded on four aircraft: C-130H, C-130J, C-27J and C-295. Northrop Grumman has integrated the AN/APN-241 with five different avionics architectures and two antenna systems. As the baseline radar for the LMCO C-130J and Alenia C-27J, it has a solid, long-term production base with logistics and maintenance support through 2030 and beyond.
The C-130J is equipped with four Allison AE2100D3 turboprop engines, each rated at 4,591 shaft horsepower (3,425kW). The all-composite six-blade R391 propeller system was developed by Dowty Aerospace.
Four Allison AE2100D3 turboprop engines
*Note table below shows that the AE 2100D3 with 4,637shp whereas the AE2100J with 4,591shp
Specification
AE 2100D2
AE 2100D3
AE 2100J
AE 2100P
Power shp (kW)
4,637 (3,410)
4,637 (3,410)
4,591 (3,376)
4,152 (3,054)
Dry weight lb (Kg)
1,776 (806)
1,740 (789)
1,666 (756)
1,627 (738)
Length in (m)
117.0 (2.97)
124.1 (3.15)
118.1 (3.00)
118.1 (3.00)
Height in (m)
52.5 (1.33)
46.3 (1.18)
52.9 (1.34)
52.9 (1.34)
Width in (m)
31.8 (0.81)
28.7 (0.73)
32.8 (0.83)
32.8 (0.83)
Pressure ratio
16.6
16.6
16.6
16.6
Compressor
14 HP
14 HP
14 HP
14 HP
Turbine
2HP, 2PT
2HP, 2PT
2HP, 2PT
2HP, 2PT
Applications
Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules, Alenia C-27J Spartan, Saab 2000 AEW&C, ShinMaywa US-2 Kai
The engines are equipped with full-authority digital electronic control (FADEC) by Lucas Aerospace. An automatic thrust control system (ATCS) optimises the balance of power on the engines, allowing lower values of minimum control speeds and superior short-airfield performance.
The aircraft can carry a maximum internal fuel load of 45,900lb. An additional 18,700lb of fuel can be carried in external underwing fuel tanks. The refuelling probe installed on the centre of the fuselage has been relocated on the C-130J to the port side, over the cockpit.
Stretched C-130J-30
The C-130J-30 is the stretched version of the C-130J. The cargo floor length of the stretched version is increased from 40ft to 55ft which gives a significant increase in the aircraft’s airlift capability.
The stretched C-130J-30 can carry eight 463L pallets, 97 litters, 24 CDS (US Container Delivery System) bundles, 128 equipped combat troops or 92 paratroopers.
The first C-130J-30 for the UK RAF was delivered in November 1999 and deliveries of all 15 aircraft ordered were completed in June 2001.
The aircraft is in production for the US Air Force (39 aircraft, the first of which was delivered to the Air National Guard in December 2001), the Royal Australian Air Force (12), the Italian Air Force (ten) and are ordered by the Kuwaiti Air Force (four) and the Danish Air Force (three).
C-130J international orders
1186 C-130J and C-130J-30 aircraft were ordered and more than 150 delivered. Orders are: US Air Force, Air National Guard, Marine Corps and Coastguard (89 C-130J and C-130J-30 and 20 KC-130J tankers), UK (10 C-130J, 15 C-130J-30 all delivered), Italian Air Force (12 C-130J and 10 C-130J-30 all delivered), Royal Australian Air Force (12 C-130J, all delivered), Kuwaiti Air Force (four C-130J-30) and the Danish Air Force (four C-130J-30 all delivered).
In April 2004, the US Marine Corps formally accepted the first KC-130J tanker / transport into service. The aircraft was first deployed in combat in April 2005 in Iraq. In December 2006, an additional order was placed for three C-130J-30 for the USAF and one KC-130J for the USMC. The KC-130J was delivered to the USMC in October 2010.
MM62183 Aeronautica Militare (Italian Air Force) Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules – Image @planespotters.net
In May 2007, India requested the foreign military sale (FMS) of six C-130J aircraft. The $1.2bn FMS contract was placed in February 2008. The first C-130J was delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in December 2010 and entered into service in February 2011. The third and fourth C-130Js were delivered in June 2011. The fifth aircraft was delivered in September 2011. Deliveries were concluded in December 2011.
In November 2007, Norway placed an order for the purchase of four C-130J Super Hercules aircraft under a $519m FMS agreement. One aircraft was delivered in November 2008 and the second in April 2009. Deliveries concluded in May 2010 with the handing over of the fourth C-130J aircraft. In September 2012, Lockheed Martin delivered an additional C-130J Super Hercules aircraft to the Norwegian Air Force as Norway lost one of its four aircraft in March 2012.
In January 2008, Canada placed a C$1.4bn order for 17 C-130J aircraft. The first delivery took place in June 2010 at the Canadian Forces Base Trenton. Deliveries were completed by April 2012.
In June 2008, the USAF ordered six HC/MC-130J special operations variants of the C-130J. The first MC-130J was delivered in March 2011.
In April 2010, the government of Israel ordered nine C-130J-30 aircraft. Lockheed Martin delivered the first C-130J Super Hercules aircraft to Israeli Air Force (IAF) in June 2013.
Israeli Air Force (IAF) – Image @lockheedmartin.com
Under an undefinitised contract action (UCA) signed with the US Government in April 2011, Lockheed Martin will supply an additional C-130J to Israel.
Qatar ordered four C-130J-30 aircraft. The production of the first C-130J-30 aircraft was completed in May 2011. Lockheed Martin delivered four C-130J-30 aircraft to the Qatar Armed Forces in September 2011. In August 2008, Iraq requested the sale of six C-130J-30 aircraft. The first aircraft completed its maiden flight in September 2012.
The Sultanate of Oman ordered one C-130J-30 long-configuration aircraft in July 2009 for delivery in 2012. In August 2010, Oman ordered two additional C-130J aircraft. The first aircraft was delivered in September 2012.
Lockheed Martin signed a contract with Tunisia in March 2010 to supply two C-130J Super Hercules airlifters. Lockheed Martin delivered the first C-130J to Tunisia in April 2013. The second aircraft was delivered in December 2014.
The US Government awarded a $245m FMS contract to Lockheed Martin on 27 May 2010 for supplying three KC-130J refuelling aircraft to Kuwait Air Force. The contract was managed by the US Navy. The first aircraft was delivered in August 2014.
The Republic of Korean Air Force (ROKAF) ordered four C-130J Super Hercules aircraft in December 2010. Lockheed Martin delivered the first two C-130Js to the ROKAF in March 2014. It will also provide aircrew and maintenance training for two years.
Lockheed Martin was awarded a $270m contract by the USAF in February 2011 to supply C-130 Aircrew Training Systems (ATS). The contract includes provision of training and instruction services, site management, engineering support and operation and maintenance for aircrew training devices.
In September 2011, CAE was awarded a contract by the US Air Force to design, build and supply four additional full flight simulators for C-130J transport aircraft.
The first MC-130J Shadow II aircraft was delivered to the United States Air Force Special Operations Command by Lockheed Martin in September 2011. Lockheed Martin delivered the first HC-130J Combat King II aircraft to the US’ Air Education and Training Command (AETC) in the same month.
Mission
The Commando II flies clandestine, or low visibility, single or multiship, low-level air refueling missions for special operations helicopters and tiltrotor aircraft, and infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply of special operations forces (SOF) by airdrop or airland intruding politically sensitive or hostile territories. The MC-130J primarily flies missions at night to reduce probability of visual acquisition and intercept by airborne threats. Its secondary mission includes the airdrop of leaflets.
General Characteristics Primary Function: Air refueling of SOF helicopter/tilt rotor aircraft, infiltration, exfiltration and resupply of SOF by airdrop or airland Builder: Lockheed Martin Power Plant: Four Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 Turboprops Thrust: 4,591 shaft horsepower Wingspan: 132 feet, 7 inches (39.7 meters) Length: 97 feet 9 inches (29.3 meters) Height: 38 feet 10 inches (11.9 meters) Speed: 362 knots at 22,000 feet Ceiling: 28,000 feet with 42,000 lb payload Maximum Takeoff Weight: 164,000 lbs Range: 3,000 miles Crew: Two pilots, one Combat Systems Officer (officers), and two Loadmasters (enlisted) Date Deployed: 2011 Unit Cost: $67 million (fiscal 2010 dollars) Inventory: Active duty, 37 by fiscal 2017
Source af.mil
HC-130J Combat King II aircraft
HC-130J Combat King II aircraft – Image @airforce-technology.com
Mission The HC-130J replaces HC-130P/Ns as the only dedicated fixed-wing Personnel Recovery platform in the Air Force inventory. It is an extended-range version of the C-130J Hercules transport. Its mission is to rapidly deploy to execute combatant commander directed recovery operations to austere airfields and denied territory for expeditionary, all weather personnel recovery operations to include airdrop, airland, helicopter air-to-air refueling, and forward area ground refueling missions. When tasked, the aircraft also conducts humanitarian assistance operations, disaster response, security cooperation/aviation advisory, emergency aeromedical evacuation, and noncombatant evacuation operations.
General Characteristics
Primary function: Fixed-wing Personnel Recovery platform Contractor: Lockheed Aircraft Corp. Power Plant:Four Rolls Royce AE2100D3 turboprop engines Thrust:4,591 Propeller Shaft Horsepower, each engine Wingspan:132 feet, 7 inches (40.4 meters) Length:97 feet, 9 inches (29.57 meters) Height:38 feet, 9 inches (11.58 meters) Operating Weight:89,000 pounds (40,369 kilograms) Maximum Takeoff Weight:164,000 pounds (74,389 kilograms) Fuel Capacity:61,360 pounds (9,024 gallons) Payload:35,000 pounds (15,875 kilograms) Speed:316 knots indicated air speed at sea level Range: beyond 4,000 miles (3,478 nautical miles) Ceiling:33,000 feet (10,000 meters) Armament:countermeasures/flares, chaff Basic Crew:Three officers (pilot, co-pilot, combat system officer) and two enlisted loadmasters Unit Cost:$66 million (fiscal 2010 replacement cost) Initial operating capability:2013
Source af.mil
What goes into the C-130J platform
The AC-130J Ghostrider will inherit the AC-130W Stinger II’s precision strike package, which was developed to support ground forces in overseas contingency operations.
Insurgent activity in urban environments created the need for an airframe that could deliver direct fire support to ground forces and precisely engage enemies with low-yield munitions.
“These new weapon systems and small diameter bombs will provide overwatch and further standoff distance to cover a wider range of space for our warfighters on the ground,” said Maj. Stuart Menn, U.S. Special Operations Command Det. 1 commander.
The precision strike package includes dual electro-optical infrared sensors, a 30-mm cannon, griffin missiles, all-weather synthetic aperture radar and small diameter bomb capabilities. The sensors allow the gunship to visually or electronically identify friendly ground forces and targets at any time, even in adverse weather. Source af.mil
Air Force’s Newest Gunship, AC-130J Ghostrider, Is Almost Ready for Combat:Here
An AC-130J Ghostrider gunship performs a routine training mission at Hurlburt Field, Fla., June 17, 2016. The AC-130J is the fourth generation gunship replacing the aging fleet of AC-130U Spooky and AC-130W Stinger II gunships. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Callaway) – Source: hurlburt.af.mil
Excerpt
The U.S. Air Force plans to declare its newest gunship, the AC-130J Ghostrider, ready for combat — or initial operating capability (IOC) in acquisition parlance — this month, but the aircraft won’t actually deploy to a war zone for a couple more years, a general said.
“We are declaring IOC, Initial Operating Capability, this month on the AC-J,” Lt. Gen. Marshall “Brad” Webb, head of Air Force Special Operations Command, said Tuesday during a briefing with reporters at the Air Force Association’s annual conference outside Washington, D.C.
AC-130J Ghostrider
An AC-130J Ghostrider gunship performs a routine training mission at Hurlburt Field, Fla., June 17, 2016. The AC-130J will provide ground forces an expeditionary, direct-fire platform that is persistent, ideally-suited for urban operations and delivers precision, low-yield munitions against ground targets. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Callaway) – Source: hurlburt.af.mil
Mission
The AC-130J Ghostrider’s primary missions are close air support, air interdiction and armed reconnaissance. Close air support missions include troops in contact, convoy escort and point air defense. Air interdiction missions are conducted against preplanned targets or targets of opportunity and include strike coordination and reconnaissance and overwatch mission sets. The AC-130J will provide ground forces an expeditionary, direct-fire platform that is persistent, ideally suited for urban operations and delivers precision low-yield munitions against ground targets.
Features
The AC-130J is a highly modified C-130J aircraft that contains many advanced features. It contains an advanced two-pilot flight station with fully integrated digital avionics. The aircraft is capable of extremely accurate navigation due to the fully integrated navigation systems with dual inertial navigation systems and global positioning system. Aircraft defensive systems and color weather radar are integrated as well. The aircraft is capable of air refueling with the Universal Air Refueling Receptacle Slipway Installation system.
11S special operations pilot Maj. Brian Pesta right, 1st Special Operations Group Detachment 2 pilot (right) and Maj. Jason Fox left, 18th Flight Test Squadron pilot, look out the left window during the delivery flight of Air Force Special Operations CommandÕs first AC-130J Ghostrider to the 1st Special Operations Wing on Hurlburt Field, Fla., July 29, 2015. The AC-130J recently completed its initial developmental test and evaluation at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., and will begin initial operational test and evaluation under aircrews of the 1st SOG Det. 2 and 1st Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron later this year. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Christopher Callaway) – airforcetimes.com
Additionally, the AC-130J is modified with the Precision Strike Package, which includes a mission management console, robust communications suite, two electro-optical/infrared sensors, advanced fire control equipment, precision guided munitions delivery capability as well as trainable 30mm and 105mm weapons. The mission management system fuses sensor, communication, environment, order of battle and threat information into a common operating picture.
Background
The AC-130J is the fourth generation gunship replacing the aging fleet of AC-130U/W gunships. AC-130 gunships have an extensive combat history dating to back to Vietnam where gunships destroyed more than 10,000 trucks and were credited with many life-saving, close air support missions. Over the past four decades, AC-130s have deployed constantly to hotspots throughout the world in support of special operations and conventional forces. In South America, Africa, Europe and throughout the Middle East, gunships have significantly contributed to mission success.
Two, Laser Guided Small Diameter Bombs are released from the wing of an AC-130J Ghostrider over White Sands Missile Range, N.M., Dec. 13, 2016. The AC-130J is outfitted with multiple weapons systems to include a 30mm and 105mm cannon, GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs and AGM-176 Griffin missiles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jeff Parkinson) – Source: hurlburt.af.mil
The first AC-130J aircraft completed developmental test and evaluation in June 2015. The first squadron will be located at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., while other locations are to be determined. Initial operational capacity is expected in fiscal 2017 and the last delivery is scheduled for fiscal 2021. The aircraft was officially named Ghostrider in May 2012.
Tech. Sgt. Jarred Huseman, left, and Tech. Sgt. Oscar Garcia, special missions aviators with the 1st Special Operations Group, Detachment 2, load a 105 mm cannon on an AC-130J Ghostrider gunship, “Angry Annie,” during a training mission over Eglin Range, Fla., Jan. 23, 2017. Photo via DoD
General Characteristics
Primary Function: Close air support and air interdiction with associated collateral missions Builder: Lockheed Martin Power Plant: Four Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 Turboprops Thrust: 4,700 shaft horsepower Wingspan: 132 feet 7 inches (39.7 meters) Length: 97 feet 9 inches (29.3 meters) Height: 39 feet 2 inches (11.9 meters) Speed: 362 knots at 22,000 feet Ceiling: 28,000 feet with 42,000 lb payload Maximum Takeoff Weight: 164,000 lbs Range: 3,000 miles Crew: Two pilots, two combat systems officers, one sensor operator and four special mission aviators
Armament: Precision Strike Package with 30mm and 105mm cannons and Standoff Precision Guided Munitions (i.e. GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb and AGM-176 Griffin missile) Date Deployed: TBD Unit Cost: $115 million Inventory: Active force, 32 by fiscal 2021
Lockheed Martin was awarded an $84.3m contract by the US Air Force on 12 September 2011 for the first phase of the C-130J Maintenance and Aircrew Training System (MATS) II programme. The company will supply four weapon system trainers (WST) to the Air Mobility Command, Air Combat Command and Air Force Special Operations Command for aircrew instruction, and renders programme management and engineering services as part of the contract.
The contract had included an option to procure two more WSTs, in addition to other types of trainers, including a fuselage trainer. The USAF exercised one option to procure an additional WST. CAE will design and manufacture the WST under a subcontract received from Lockheed Martin in March 2013.
In October 2011, India exercised an option to purchase six additional C-130Js from Lockheed Martin under an estimated $1.2bn foreign military sale. The US Air Force (USAF) baseline instruments, six Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 additional engines, eight AN/AAR-47 missile warning systems, and eight AN/ALR-56M advanced radar warning receivers will also be delivered under the military sale.
In October 2012, the US Coast Guard placed a $218m order with Lockheed Martin for three additional HC-130J aircraft.
Lockheed Martin delivered two additional C-130Js to Little Rock Air Force Base in December 2015. The US Government awarded a Multiyear II contract to Lockheed Martin in December 2015 for 78 C-130J aircraft.
In December 2015, the Royal Air Force awarded a £369m contract to Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group, Lockheed Martin and Rolls-Royce to receive Hercules Integrated Operational Support (HIOS) for the C-130J fleet until 2022.
KC-130J Tanker (Harvest HAWK)
Image: lockheedmartin.com
The KC-130J is a multi-role, medium-sized fixed-wing aerial refuelling aircraft manufactured by Lockheed Martin primarily for the US Marine Corps (USMC). The USMC fleet of KC-130J accumulated over 20,000 flight hours in Iraq.
The KC-130J is used by the operating forces for aerial refuelling, ground refuelling, tactical transportation of personnel or cargo, and logistic support missions.
The US Navy and the USMC currently operate a fleet of 47 KC-130J Hercules aircraft. The total additional requirement of both these operators is 104.
“The US Navy and the USMC currently operate a fleet of 46 KC-130J Hercules aircraft.”
KC-130J design features
The KC-130J is an advanced derivative of the base C-130J transport aircraft. It incorporates state-of-the-art technology and performance improvements in addition to the built-in features of the basic C-130J aircraft. The KC-130J also integrates a fire control unit for weapon systems.
The aircraft has a length of 29.3m, a wing-span of 39.7m and a height of 11.4m. It has a cargo volume of 4,551ft³. The maximum gross take-off weight of the aircraft is 79,380kg.
The KC-130J can be deployed in wide-range of missions, including troops and cargo transportation, aerial refuelling, aerial delivery, emergency re-supply missions, and medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) from ungraded landing zones. The aircraft can also be used for the emergency evacuation of personnel and cargo, close air support (CAS), the illumination of combat areas, and multisensor-image-based reconnaissance.
The tanker aircraft carries 92 ground troops or 64 paratroopers and equipment in its tactical transport role. It can also be configured as a MEDEVAC aircraft accommodating 74 patients on stretchers, and their accompaniments.
The aircraft has a 57,500lb fuel offload capability and can perform missions in a radius of up to 500nmi. It can be optionally fitted with additional fuselage tank for the storage of 24,392lb of fuel. It can unload up to 600gal of fuel per minute, which is about four times the current offload rate.
Weapon systems
“The KC-130J is powered by four Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 turboprop engines.”
The KC-130J aircraft is armed with Harvest HAWK (Hercules Airborne Weapons Kit) modular roll-on, roll-off weapons system. The unit is housed within a standard cargo pallet placed in the cargo compartment. Target detection is provided by the AN/AAQ-30 target sight system mounted under the left wing fuel tank. The unit is equipped with infrared and electro-optic sensors.
AN/AAQ-30 target sight system
An AN/AAQ-30 Target Sight System, designed for the AH-1Z Viper, can be mounted on the rear of a KC-130J’s external fuel tank to allow the aircraft to undertake surveillance and designation of targets. Source aviadejavu.ru
The Target Sight System (TSS) is the multi-sensor electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) fire control system (AN/AAQ-30A) for the U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z attack helicopter. TSS has an infrared pointer, large-aperture mid-wave infrared (MWIR) sensor, color TV, laser designator/rangefinder (with eye-safe mode) and an on-gimbal inertial measurement unit integrated into a highly stabilized turret. The turret mounts to the nose of the aircraft via the Lockheed Martin-developed aircraft interface structure. TSS’ advanced sensors provide pilots with enhanced capabilities to acquire, track and designate targets at maximum weapon range, significantly enhancing platform survivability and lethality.
Features
Large aperture MWIR with four fields-of-view for maximum image resolution and long-range performance
Highly stabilized and inertially isolated gimbal for precise line-of-sight pointing
Multi-mode multi-target tracker for precision weapon designation and target geo-location
Advanced image processing to enhance target identification at extended ranges
High magnification, continuous zoom, color TV with field-of-view matched to the MWIR
Its weapon system can fire Hellfire air-to-surface missiles (ASMs) and precision-guided munitions including Raytheon AGM-175 Griffin or MBDA GBU-44/B Viper Strike missiles. The Hellfire is mounted on the left-hand pylon, while the other missiles are launched from the cargo ramp.
In May 2012, US Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) placed a contract with Lockheed Martin to deliver three Harvest HAWK systems for KC-130J fleet. Source naval-technology.com
Characteristics
Maximum Takeoff Weight
164,000 lbs.
Maximum Fuel
61,364 lbs. (with external tanks)
Max Payload
47,903 lbs. (at Maximum Wing Relieving Fuel)
Cargo Volume
4,551 cu ft.
Crew For Refueling Options
Two Pilots, One Advanced Crew Stations (ACS) Operator, Two Loadmasters
ORLANDO, Fla., Sept. 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has received a direct commercial sale contract for the integration of Sniper Advanced Targeting Pods (ATP) onto the Eurofighter Typhoon swing-role fighter.
The contract, signed with Eurofighter partner company Leonardo Aircraft, includes 18 pods, integration and logistics support for the Kuwait Air Force’s Eurofighter Typhoon. The Eurofighter Typhoon is the ninth aircraft platform to be equipped with Sniper ATP, joining variants of the F-15, F-16, F-18, A-10, B-1, B-52, F-2 and Harrier.
“This contract marks the start of a successful relationship with the Eurofighter consortium to provide critical targeting capability worldwide,” said Ken Fuhr, fixed-wing program director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “As a new Sniper ATP user, the Kuwait Air Force will see significant targeting benefits, including high-resolution imagery, advanced targeting modes, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.”
Pod deliveries will begin in 2017 to support integration efforts.
Sniper ATP detects, identifies, automatically tracks and laser-designates small tactical targets at long ranges. It also supports employment of all laser- and GPS-guided weapons against multiple fixed and moving targets.
Sniper pods provide improved long-range target detection/identification and continuous stabilized surveillance for all missions, including close air support of ground forces. The Sniper pod enables aircrews to detect and identify weapon caches and individuals carrying armaments, all outside jet noise ranges. Superior imagery, a video datalink and J-series-weapons-quality coordinates provided by the Sniper pod enable rapid target decisions and keep aircrews out of threat ranges.
High resolution imagery for non-traditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (NTISR) enables the Sniper pod to play a major role in Air Force operations in theater, providing top cover for ground forces, as well as increasing the safety of civilian populations.
The Sniper pod is combat proven on U.S. Air Force and international F-15E, F-16 (all blocks), B-1, A-10C, Harrier GR7/9 and CF-18 aircraft. Lockheed Martin is also in the final stages of integrating the Sniper pod on the B-52. The pod’s plug-and-play capability facilitates moving the pod across platforms without changing software.
Features
Sniper pods include a high definition mid-wave forward looking infrared (FLIR), dual-mode laser, HDTV, laser spot tracker, laser marker, video data link, and a digital data recorder. Advanced image processing algorithms, combined with rock steady stabilization techniques, provide cutting-edge performance. The pod features automatic tracking and laser designation of tactical size targets via real-time imagery presented on cockpit displays. The Sniper pod is fully compatible with the latest J-series munitions for precision weapons delivery against multiple moving and fixed targets.
Advanced Targeting Pod – Sensor Enhancement (ATP-SE) design upgrades include enhanced sensors, advanced processors, and automated NTISR modes.
The Sniper pod’s architecture and modular design permits true two-level maintenance, eliminating costly intermediate-level support. Automated built-in test permits flightline maintainers to isolate and replace an LRU in under 20 minutes. Spares are ordered through a user-friendly website offering in-transit visibility to parts shipment.
The Sniper pod’s modular design also offers an affordable road map for modernizing and enhancing precision targeting capabilities for U.S. Air Force and coalition partner aircraft.
General characteristics Primary function: positive identification, automatic tracking and laser designation, NTISR Prime contractor: Lockheed Martin Length: 98.2 inches (252 centimeters) Diameter: 11.9 inches (30 centimeters) Weight: 446 pounds (202 kilograms) Aircraft: F-15E, F-16 Block 30/40/50, A-10, B-1 Sensors: high resolution FLIR and HDTV, dual mode laser designator, laser spot tracker and laser marker Date deployed: January 2005
“The combined instrument-corporation” (part of the State Corporation Rostec) presented at the international exhibition “Gidroaviasalon 2016” pattern radar station (RLS) side-looking “Peak – M” to equip combat aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Image – niikulon.ru
Fourth-generation radar “Peak – M “designed for radar surveillance, including for the detection of military targets of the enemy -. roads, airports, bunkers, fortifications, as well as weapons and military equipment
in the station has a function of processing radar data in real time, as well as provided a telescopic observation mode . resolution up to 30 cm in particular, the radar is able to detail “see” aircraft components – engine, keel, arms, etc., and to determine the characteristic features of its type.
The serial production of radar “Peak-M” in the “instrument-making of the Joint Corporation “is the Scientific-Research Institute” Pendant “. Initially, the product was developed for multipurpose fighter-bomber Su-34, but can be used on other types of aircraft, including drones.
“Peak-M” is part of the on-board complex RBB-3, capable of maintaining a radar surveillance in all weather conditions and at any time of the day. The station has a resolution in the map mode to 1-1.5 m, and the distance of objects detected -. 300 km
radar has successfully completed the implementation of the state program of tests in 2016. At the same time, “NII Pendant” commissioned by the Industry and Trade Ministry is developing a technology to create a side-view of the fifth-generation radars with active phased array (AESA).
France has chosen the German-made Heckler & Koch HK 416 carbine to replace its iconic FAMAS assault rifle, which has been used by the French Army for over 40 years. The weapon became synonymous for its use by French soldiers.
The legendary but old-fashioned FAMAS, designed in France by the Manufacture d’armes de Saint-Etienne (MAS), will be replaced by the Heckler & Koch HK 416 by 2017, the French Directorate General for Armaments (DGA) announced in a statement on Friday.
Heckler & Koch, the German manufacturer, will deliver 100,000 rifles as well as accessories, ammunition and provide weapons training to all parts of the French military, including the Army, Navy and Air Force. The value of the 10-year contract is estimated to be around €300 million ($336 million).
“The contract contributes to the further strengthening of the solid ties between Germany and France in defense and in the armaments industry in particular,” the DGA statement said, according to German news outlet N-TV.
The HK 416 won an EU-wide tender for the French bid. It was competing against other competitors, such as the ARX160 made by the Italian company Beretta; the MCX manufactured by the German-Swiss company SIG Sauer, the VHS2 made by the Croatian firm HS Produkt and the SCAR, manufactured by Belgium’s FN Herstal.
The FAMAS, known for its distinctive bullpup design, is incompatible with NATO standard ammunition, along with the age of the current rifles used by the military.
It entered service with the French military in 1978, and was used by the army in several overseas deployments, including the 1991 Gulf War, the war in Afghanistan as well as several missions in France’s former African colonies.
The HK 416 was originally designed by the Heckler & Koch as an improvement based on the Colt M4 family issued to the US military.
Said to be far more reliable than the American analogue, the rifle has been tested by the United States military and is in use with some law enforcement agencies and special operations units such as Delta Force, FBI Hostage Rescue Team and US Border Patrol.
A modified variant of the HK 416 has also undergone testing by the US Marine Corps as the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle. Except France, Norwegian armed forces are so far the only operator that uses the HK 416 as its standard service rifles.
The Heckler & Koch HK416 assault rifle is an AR-15-pattern carbine based on the M4 carbine, with the principle feature being a gas piston system based on the Armalite AR-18 derived mechanism of the Heckler & Koch G36. Originally to be marketed as the “HK M4,” the name was altered in an out-of-court settlement with Colt following a lawsuit over the latter’s M4 trademark: Colt ultimately lost this trademark after Bushmaster Firearms refused to settle in the same way and the term “M4” was legally genericised as a name for carbine-length AR15 pattern rifles. HK has not yet altered the weapon’s name in light of this, or indicated any plan to do so.
One of the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s (RNZAF) newly acquired fleet of Seasprite helicopters will help transport 23 government staff and about seven tonnes of vital equipment and supplies to the remote Kermadec Islands on its first operational mission with an offshore patrol vessel (OPV).
An SH-2G (I) Seasprite, one of eight that are being introduced into service this year, has joined the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Otago on a resupply mission to the Kermadec Islands from 12-23 September.
“Although the newer-model Seasprite was deployed on a frigate for a multilateral exercise in June, their deployment on an OPV is a major step forward in increasing the NZDF’s ability to support other government agencies in New Zealand and in the Pacific region. This also marks a major milestone in the modernisation of the Navy’s fleet,” Captain Dave McEwan, the Acting Maritime Component Commander, said.
Lieutenant Commander (LTCDR) Andrew Sorensen, the Commanding Officer of Otago, said the ship’s first stop would be at Macauley Island, where the Seasprite will drop off a Department of Conservation (DoC) representative and two dogs trained to detect rats and other pests.
Otago will travel next to Raoul Island, to resupply the DoC outpost there. About seven tonnes of goods, including food supplies, general equipment and a light utility vehicle, will be flown to the island in underslung loads.
National Maritime Coordination Centre manager Kevin Arlidge said the Seasprite’s deployment with an offshore patrol vessel would allow them to reach more inaccessible and remote parts of the Kermadecs and would widen the scope of the NZDF’s work in support of DoC and GNS Science.
Fourteen DoC staff, including mechanics, builders and specialists involved in the agency’s weed-eradication programme, will be flown from the ship to Raoul Island by the Seasprite.
Otago is also transporting three MetService personnel, who will carry out routine maintenance work on the automatic weather station on the island, two electronic technicians and three commercial divers from GNS Science, who will check the tsunami gauges, seismograph and Global Positioning System equipment, and a volcano chemist, who will check the volcano and crater lakes for seismic activity.
“The tsunami gauges are the first line of defence against tsunamis and are vital for public safety in New Zealand,” GNS Science volcanologist Brad Scott said. “The seismograph and GPS help GNS monitor for large earthquakes and submarine volcanic eruptions. So without NZDF support, we may not be able to keep this going.”
MetService staff will also install a lightning detection sensor on the island to serve as an early detection and warning system to mitigate against lightning hazards.
The Protector Class Offshore Patrol Vessels are a new class of OPVs built by BAE Systems (formerly, Tenix Defence) for the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN). Two OPVs, HMNZS Otago (P148) and HMNZS Wellington (P55) were named after two frigates previously operated by the RNZN.
The OPVs were built under Project Protector of the Ministry of Defence. The project includes the construction of a multi-role vessel, two offshore and four inshore patrol vessels. Operated by RNZN, these vessels will support Government Agencies such as the New Zealand Customs Service, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ministry of Fisheries, Maritime New Zealand and New Zealand Police.
The Ministry of Defence signed a contract with BAE Systems in July 2004.
The first steel was cut in February 2005 and the first OPV, HMNZS Otago, was launched in November 2006. The first vessel was delivered to RNZN in February 2010.
The second and final vessel in class, HMNZS Wellington, was launched in October 2007. It was delivered to the RNZN in June 2010.
Designed by STX Canada Marine, the vessels are based on earlier OPV designs developed for the Irish Naval Service and the Mauritian Coast Guard.
The OPV features an ice-strengthened hull that allows the vessel to enter the waters where ice can be found.
HMNZS Otago (P148) – Image @motherboard.vice.com
The vessel meets all the operational requirements for patrol and response, cargo carriage and handling, and sea keeping capabilities for inflatable boat and helicopter operations. The vessel was designed to provide a high level of comfort for crew members and agency personnel.
The OPV has an overall length of 85m, a waterline length of 77.6m and a moulded breadth of 14m. Depth to main deck is 6.8m and design draft is 3.6m. Displacement of the boat is 1,900t. The vessel has a maximum ranger of 6,000nm at 15kt speed and an endurance of 21 days. It can complement over 80 people including core ship’s company, flight personnel, agency officials and additional members.
Protector Class OPV missions
The Protector Class OPVs will conduct operations throughout a 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of New Zealand, the southern ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Primary missions include patrolling, maritime counter-terrorism, surveillance and reconnaissance, maritime search and rescue (SAR) and pollution control. These OPVs can also be deployed in humanitarian assistance, catastrophe relief, peacekeeping operations and sea training for the Navy.
HMNZS Wellington (P-55)
The vessel will conduct maritime patrols along with the P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft in the New Zealand EEZ, southern ocean and South Pacific. The non-military surveillance operations are carried out in coordination with the civil agencies and involve specialised teams from government agencies.
The OPV can carry two rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs), two special forces RHIBs and six 45-man inflatable boats. These boats can be deployed and recovered in sea state 4. The OPV has the ability to perform patrol missions in sea state 6, and can survive in sea state 9. It can launch and recover the helicopter in sea state 5 and allow vertical replenishment (VERTREP) operations in sea state 6.
Protector Class OPV guns
The OPV is armed with a remotely controlled MSI DS25 stabilised naval gun system. Two M2HB QCB .50 calibre Browning machine guns are also fitted on the vessel. M2HB can fire 450-575 rounds a minute for a range of 1,800m.
Upgrades
Both HMNZS Otago and HMNZS Wellington have recently gone through minor upgrades, including sensors and weapons, and replacing the 25mm Bushmaster with the Rafael Typhoon 25 mm stabilised naval gun. Source@wikipedia.org
Rafael Typhoon 25 mm stabilised naval gun
The Typhoon is a family of lightweight, stabilized, remote controlled weapon systems for a full range of weapons, including:
The M2HB (Enhanced), called the M2E2, combines the proven performance and logistics support of the existing M2HB machine gun with new features and design improvements including:
Fixed headspace and timing configuration (eliminates safety concerns associated with barrel changing)
Quick-change barrel (QCB) system
Manual safety
Flash hider
Removable barrel handle to simplify hot-barrel changing
The manual safety makes the M2E2 easier and safer to use, including the ability to move the weapon with a chambered round. The new flash hider reduces muzzle flash, making the M2 night-vision friendly. A patented, J-slot barrel retention system ensures secure barrel locking and alignment. Common barrel thread interchanges with existing HB barrels, eliminating logistics concerns during fielding and simplifies conversion of existing M2HB barrels to the QCB configuration. In fact, all the upgrades can be fitted to existing M2HB weapons.
One of the New Zealand Defence Force’s new fleet of Seasprite helicopters has joined the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Otago on a resupply mission to the remote Kermadec Islands. (NZDF photo)
The vessel features complete helicopter facilities including flight deck with night landing capability, basic maintenance hangar, refuelling and traversing systems. The flight can allow the operations of Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite at maximum take-off weight of 6,115kg.
Then SH-2G Super Seasprite can be armed with a M60 machine gun, homing torpedoes, depth charges and Maverick air-to-surface missiles. An A109 light utility helicopter can also be accommodated as an alternative to Seasprite.
Propulsion
The Protector Class OPVs are powered by two MAN B&W 12RK280 diesel engines. Each engine develops maximum power output 5,400kW at 1,000rpm. The vessel is also equipped with a bow thruster, two shafts and two controllable pitch propellers. The auxiliary power is provided by three diesel driven alternators and an emergency diesel alternator. Each alternator generates 440V power.
RNZAF has chosen Boeing as the preferred provider of an update of submarine detection sensors on the air force’s P-3K2 Orion surveillance aircraft:Details
Airbus Helicopters has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Denel Aviation to cooperate on modernising the current fleet of 11 Rooivalk Mk1 attack helicopter in service with the South African Air Force.
Announced on September 15 at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition being held at Air Force Base Waterkloof, South Africa, the Rooivalk Mk1.1 modernisation program will focus on improving reliability and updating ageing sighting and weapon systems, improving payload and survivability.
“As part of the Rooivalk roadmap, we will launch a market assessment and feasibility study into a modernised version of the Rooivalk incorporating enhanced operational capabilities,” said Denel Aviation’s chief executive Mike Kgobe.
“Our ultimate objective is to offer a South African product which will provide an attractive solution for potential export customers around the world.”
Airbus Helicopters’ senior vice president for sales and customer relations Olivier Lambert added the MoU collaboration “showed both parties’ willingness to strengthen and deepen their relationship with a view to establishing a long-term strategic cooperative partnership”.
Denel has also confirmed plans to build an upgraded Rooivalk Mk2 following renewed interest in the South African designed and built helicopter after its performance with UN peacekeeping missions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Three Rooivalks have been deployed to the DRC since 2013 where they have reportedly performed well in a range of missions and demonstrated good availability and reliability.
Denel said while restarting the Rooivalk production line would require a minimum order of around 75 helicopters, discussions and negotiations were ongoing with potential African partners to contribute to manufacture of a Rooivalk Mk 2. Potential users included Egypt, Brazil, Nigeria, Poland and India.
The Rooivalk was a contender in the ADF’s Project Air 87 Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter tender but was eliminated from the competition in 2001.
V-247 Vigilant Concept Art – This is a tiltrotor drone with missiles, marketed at the Marine Corps. – Image @Bell Helicopter
Runways are a hassle. Long, flat strips of unobstructed land are work to defend at the best of times, and can’t always be found in rugged terrain or on small islands. Yet having a fixed-wing plane fly air support is useful, because plane bodies are faster and much more efficient than helicopters. What’s the Marine Corps to do?
If you ask Bell Helicopter, the answer is obvious: a brand-new tiltrotor drone, unveiled today before a crowd of media and experts at that National Press Club in Washington, DC.
This is the V-247 Vigilant. The drone has a maximum speed of 345 mph, though it cruises most efficiently at 205 mph. It can fly at an altitude of up to 25,000 feet, can carry up to 2,000 pounds internally, and has a maximum flight time of 17 hours or a maximum range of 1,600 statute miles (though it can’t do all of this simultaneously). Bell provides an example mission of one where it carries a 600-pound payload to a target 500 miles away, hangs around for several hours, and then returns. And “target” here is key: the Vigilant isn’t just a scout. As designed, it can fire missiles, including Hellfires and its expected replacement, the Joint Air Ground Missile. It can also carry Mk50 torpedoes, making it deadly to enemies in the sea, as well as on land.
The Vigilant weighs 16,000 pounds empty, 29,500 pounds filled to the brim with something slung beneath it, and it has a wingspan of 65 feet with a 30-foot rotor diameter. Two V-247 Vigilants can fit inside a C-17 Globemaster transport, helping them get to where they’re needed. That makes the Vigilant about half the size of the troop-carrying V-22 Osprey tiltrotor, which is small for a plane but still a Group 5 drone for the military, which includes the heaviest and fastest drones.
Bell says it can start producing the V-247 as early 2023, and designed it to meet the needs of the Marine Corps. If the Corps bites, and if the Vigilant works as promised, by the end of the next decade Marines could fly into battle inside tiltrotor V-22s and request air support from tiltrotor V-247 drones, while at the same time soldiers from the Army arrive in Bell’s plannedV-280 Valor transport.
Bell Helicopter introduces Bell V-247 Vigilant tiltrotor
The Bell V-247 Vigilant is a solution designed to address the evolving demands of the military and transportation sectors for unmanned aircraft for a shipborne UAS platform. Bell Helicopter Photo
Posted on September 22, 2016; Bell Helicopter Press Release
Speaking before an audience of aviation and military experts assembled at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., Bell Helicopter today unveiled the Bell V-247 Vigilant tiltrotor.
The Bell V-247 tiltrotor is an unmanned aerial system (UAS) that will combine the vertical lift capability of a helicopter with the speed and range of a conventional fixed-wing aircraft. The revolutionary UAS is designed to provide unmatched long-endurance persistent expeditionary and surveillance capability and lethal reach, as well as runway independence to operate successfully in maritime environments and locations without secure runway availability.
The Bell V-247 Vigilant satisfies the comprehensive spectrum of capabilities outlined in the 2016 Marine Corps Aviation Plan, and could be available for production as early as 2023. The Bell V-247 Vigilant is a solution designed to address the evolving demands of the military and transportation sectors for unmanned aircraft for a shipborne UAS platform, including:
The ability to operate successfully without a runway, such as in maritime environments
Seamless performance in locations without secure runway availability, such as at shrinking land bases in contested areas
Significant reduction of the logistical footprint while retaining the superior operational performance by combining the vertical lift capability of a helicopter with the speed and range of a conventional fixed-wing aircraft
The capacity to control the battle space effectively with 24-hour intelligence provided by unmatched long-endurance persistent expeditionary and surveillance capability
A Group 5 UAS, the Bell V-247 Vigilant is designed to combine unparalleled capability with unprecedented flexibility to execute a wide array of mission sets, including electronic warfare, ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance), escort, C4 (command, control, communications, and computers), persistent fire missions and tactical distribution. The UAS is expected to accomplish all of this with the benefits of extended endurance through plug-and-play mission packages.
“The Bell V-247 Vigilant is the next leap in innovation making the future of aviation a reality today – it’s a testament to the power and versatility of tiltrotor flight,” said Mitch Snyder, president and CEO at Bell Helicopter. “At Bell Helicopter, we are constantly challenging the traditional notion of what it means to fly by staying on the leading edge of aviation and technological development. The unmanned tiltrotor is the latest example of how we are changing the way the world flies, taking our customers into the dynamic world of next-generation aircraft.”
The Bell V-247 Vigilant’s design boasts a number of unrivaled capabilities and transformational features, including:
A sea-based platform, which can be sized for compatibility with DDG guided missile destroyers shipboard applications
Single engine tiltrotor unmanned aerial system
24-hour persistent ISR with a two aircraft system
Speed: 250 knots cruise speed; 180 knots endurance speed; >300 knots at maximum continuous power
As it sits on the deck, the V-247 Vigilant can hold a combination of fuel, armament, and sensors, up to 13,000 pounds
Blade Fold Wing Stow makes V-247 Vigilant DDG hangar compatible
Expeditionary capability with small logistical footprint
Open architecture and interfaces
Air-to-air refueling
Modular payload system to provide maximum flexibility
Power distribution system to provide maximum mission capability
Redundant flight control system
Electro Optical System and Targeting System
The Bell V-247 Vigilant offers a dynamic profile that is uniquely suited to complete highly versatile operations and support missions. It is designed to provide extended range flying from land or ship, matchless expeditionary capabilities and to remain on-station with heightened loiter times for extended periods. With its signature blade fold wing stow design, it will fit inside a DDG hangar space, and two can be loaded on a C-17 aircraft. The open architecture of the modular payload system enhances flexibility for aircraft customization by mission type. The bays on the Bell V-247 Vigilant are designed to carry high definition sensors, fuel, sonar buoys, light detection and ranging (LiDAR) modules, 360-degree surface radar modules, an MK-50 torpedo or Hellfire or JAGM missiles optimally. Regardless of the need, the Bell V-247 Vigilant easily integrates into priority mission sets to complete multiple airborne requirements.
“Leveraging lessons learned from our extensive history and experience with tiltrotors, we have found the best available solution to fulfill the Marine Corps need for a Group 5 UAS,” said Vince Tobin, vice president, advanced tiltrotor systems at Bell Helicopter. “The Bell V-247 Vigilant will give military customers the capabilities needed to reduce the complexity of deployment, increase speed of employment, reduce mission times and increase response time – all critical elements to completing missions to save lives and protect our freedom.”
Bell Helicopter utilized its decades of applied tiltrotor experience to develop this next generation UAS. The Bell V-247 Vigilant design and capabilities bring to bear experience from the V-22 tiltrotor program and UH-1Y/AH-1Z programs, capturing the V-280 Valor’s unmatched design and performance standards in order to provide unparalleled competency to support ship-board compatibility.
At the Army 2016 forum, Russian Helicopters signed supply contracts for aviation inventory for helicopters that are in service for the Indonesian Air Force and the Royal Thai Armed Forces. Also, at the expo, the top managers of Russian Helicopters met with representatives of the Myanmar military agencies.
The contract signed with the Indonesian authorities is to supply rotor blade sets for the Mi-35P helicopters that are in service in the Indonesian Air Force. Under the contract, the Russian holding is to deliver the goods in Q2 2017.
Under the contract signed with the Thai client, Russian Helicopters will supply aviation inventory for the Mi-17V-5 helicopters operated by the Royal Thai Armed Forces, including lifting rotor and antitorque rotor sets.
“Presently, the Southeast Asian market is a priority for our holding,” said Igor Chechikov, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for After Sales Service Igor Chechikov, “as demand for Russian helicopters is stable in this region. Signing contracts is an important step towards the further strengthening of our cooperation. We are ready to supply spare parts to ensure the proper operation of the Russian-made helicopters throughout their lifecycle.”
At Army 2016 expo, Russian Helicopters top managers also met with the Ministry of Defense delegation as well as representatives of the Myanmar military agencies. The forum guests were also given a presentation and received technical and commercial offers on the repair and maintenance of Mi-24P helicopters.
According to its press release, Russian Helicopters presently carries out repairs of four Mi-24P transport and military helicopters operated by the Myanmar Air Force under contracts signed in 2015. Once the work is successfully completed, the parties may sign further contracts.
The UK MoD has announced that they will purchase Leonardo-Finmeccanica’s BriteCloud decoy system in a deal worth $3.25 million. Speaking on the deal, defense official Tony Douglas said “flight trials planned for later this year will test the system’s effectiveness against a wide range of current and potential threats, helping to ensure that UK pilots have the tools they need to successfully complete their missions wherever they are in the world.” If trials are successful, the system will be operational aboard RAF Tornado fighter-bombers by mid-2017.
BriteCloud Expendable Active Decoy (EAD) is a compact, DRFM-based active RF countermeasure that has the capability to defeat the majority of RF-guided surface-to-air and air-to-air threat systems. BriteCloud is designed to be dispensed from standard chaff/flare dispensers and therefore requires minimal platform integration. Utilising advanced techniques it is effective against active and semi-active RF seekers, and fire control radars.Source leonardocompany.com
Technical Specifications
Frequency Band H-J
Shelf Life 5 years minimum
Size 55mm format available now. 218 format available in 2016
The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has placed a £2.5 million order for UK-designed and built miniature decoys which will help to protect combat jets from missiles.
The cutting-edge BriteCloud system, designed and manufactured in Bedfordshire and Scotland by Leonardo-Finmeccanica, will undergo flight trials on RAF Tornado aircraft later this year.
BriteCloud, which is similar in size and appearance to a beverage can, can be fired from an aircraft’s flare dispenser without the need for modification to the aircraft. Once deployed, it uses powerful radar emissions to disrupt systems within radar-guided air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles.
A pilot can launch the compact unit, which is packed with advanced electronics, to confuse an attacking missile, drawing it away to a point where it no longer poses a threat.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said:
The cutting-edge technology behind BriteCloud demonstrates the MOD’s commitment to harnessing and growing the incredible creativity in our Defence supply chain.
Supported by our £178 billion investment in equipment, these new decoy systems show that we are continually pushing the boundaries of innovation, making the most of Great British skills and brains to keep our Armed Forces safe from our adversaries.
Chief Executive Officer at the MOD’s Defence Equipment and Support organisation, Tony Douglas said:
The development of BriteCloud has only recently been made possible after many years of advances in technology, and shows how UK Defence, in partnership with industry, is leading the charge when it comes to research and development.
Flight trials planned for later this year will test the system’s effectiveness against a wide range of current and potential threats, helping to ensure that UK pilots have the tools they need to successfully complete their missions wherever they are in the world.
The MOD has been working with Leonardo-Finmeccanica to develop the BriteCloud system since 2012. The project is sustaining around 25 design jobs at the company’s Edinburgh and Luton sites.
Other companies in the supply chain include Chemring, based in Whiteley, Hampshire, and QinetiQ, based in Farnborough, Hampshire, and Boscombe Down, Wiltshire.
To date, the MOD has invested around £25 million in the BriteCloud system through a project commissioned by Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and managed by Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S).
This new £2.5 million batch order will allow the RAF to explore how BriteCloud could best be deployed operationally. If successful, the system could be available for Tornado aircraft operations by mid-2017.
Wing Commander Matthew Tandy, Protection of Air Operations Desk Officer for the Royal Air Force said:
BriteCloud is much easier to install on a variety of aircraft than previous bulkier decoy systems, because it can be used from existing countermeasure dispensers such as flare launchers.
Although the devices are highly advanced, they are straightforward to use. They can be easily re-programmed during operations to defeat new threats as they are encountered, giving the RAF an important advantage in engagements.”
Image @denel.co.za
Image @thaimilitaryandasianregion.wordpress.com
C-130J design features Image @shopify.com
RAF C-130J – maddmaxxtsf Y-Maxime YouTube
An AC-130J Ghostrider gunship performs a routine training mission at Hurlburt Field, Fla., June 17, 2016. The AC-130J is the fourth generation gunship replacing the aging fleet of AC-130U Spooky and AC-130W Stinger II gunships. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Callaway) – Source: hurlburt.af.mil
An AC-130J Ghostrider gunship performs a routine training mission at Hurlburt Field, Fla., June 17, 2016. The AC-130J will provide ground forces an expeditionary, direct-fire platform that is persistent, ideally-suited for urban operations and delivers precision, low-yield munitions against ground targets. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Callaway) – Source: hurlburt.af.mil
11S special operations pilot Maj. Brian Pesta right, 1st Special Operations Group Detachment 2 pilot (right) and Maj. Jason Fox left, 18th Flight Test Squadron pilot, look out the left window during the delivery flight of Air Force Special Operations CommandÕs first AC-130J Ghostrider to the 1st Special Operations Wing on Hurlburt Field, Fla., July 29, 2015. The AC-130J recently completed its initial developmental test and evaluation at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., and will begin initial operational test and evaluation under aircrews of the 1st SOG Det. 2 and 1st Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron later this year. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Christopher Callaway) – airforcetimes.com
Two, Laser Guided Small Diameter Bombs are released from the wing of an AC-130J Ghostrider over White Sands Missile Range, N.M., Dec. 13, 2016. The AC-130J is outfitted with multiple weapons systems to include a 30mm and 105mm cannon, GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs and AGM-176 Griffin missiles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jeff Parkinson) – Source: hurlburt.af.mil
Tech. Sgt. Jarred Huseman, left, and Tech. Sgt. Oscar Garcia, special missions aviators with the 1st Special Operations Group, Detachment 2, load a 105 mm cannon on an AC-130J Ghostrider gunship, “Angry Annie,” during a training mission over Eglin Range, Fla., Jan. 23, 2017. Photo via DoD
Image @airrecognition.com
HMNZS Otago (P148) – Image @contactairlandandsea.com
Image 
HMNZS Otago (P148) – Image @motherboard.vice.com
Image 
HMNZS Wellington (P-55)
One of the New Zealand Defence Force’s new fleet of Seasprite helicopters has joined the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Otago on a resupply mission to the remote Kermadec Islands. (NZDF photo)
V-247 Vigilant Concept Art – This is a tiltrotor drone with missiles, marketed at the Marine Corps. – Image @Bell Helicopter
The Bell V-247 Vigilant is a solution designed to address the evolving demands of the military and transportation sectors for unmanned aircraft for a shipborne UAS platform. Bell Helicopter Photo
Thai Military and Asian Region 
