An airborne electro-optical laser sensor designed to detect minefields has demonstrated the ability to detect simulated improvised explosive devices. The Airborne Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Minefield Detection System (ASTAMIDS) developed by Northrop Grumman, demonstrated this capability during an Army evaluation of the new system. The system was flown on the MQ-8B Fire Scout unmanned aerial system.
ASTAMIDS combines multi-spectral electro-optical sensors employing different sensing methods, including texture analysis and change detection, to spot recently buried objects suspected as mines or IEDs. In addition to its primary counter-mine and counter-IED mission ASTAMIDS also provides reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition capability. The system’s laser can also designate targets for laser guided munitions. Under the Army evaluation the system successfully designated targets for three Hellfire missiles.
Through a recent test series conducted in September 2010, ASTAMIDS flew 12 missions on an Army UH-1 and the Northrop Grumman owned MQ-8B unmanned vehicle. These flight tests evaluated the system’s C-IED nadir step stare, off-nadir road following and large area precision mapping capabilities.
These capabilities were supported by the new ‘ASTAMIDS Ground Exploitation Station’ (AGES), integrated with the systems’ ground control segment for the test. AGES processed streaming telemetry data obtained from the airborne sensor, enabling operators to identify target locations in near real-time.
The core of the system is the gimbaled, lightweight, multi-spectral, electro-optical and infrared imaging sensor designed to be flown on both manned and unmanned aircraft. The airborne payload weighs about 36 kg (80 pounds). Integrated with AGES processors and software, the system detects, locates and identifies ground targets, minefields, obstacles and IEDs, determines ranges to ground targets, and, as proven in the tests, designates targets for attack by laser-guided munitions.
According to the U.S. Army PM Close Combat Systems, “ASTAMIDS will give Army Brigade Combat Teams unprecedented situational awareness and target designation capabilities.” The near-real time response of the system is critical for counter-IED missions, as it provides warfighters with actionable intelligence minutes after a specific area is analyzed.
“These tests proved we’ve achieved our goal with ASTAMIDS – we can identify ground threats and deliver targeting-quality data to adjacent warfighters to destroy the threats and do that in near real time” said Dan Chang, Northrop Grumman vice president of Maritime and Tactical Systems.
Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) is modernizing the Canadian Leopard 2A4 CAN tanks previously acquired from German Army surplus. The first batch of 20 tanks was handed back to the Canadian Armed Forces yesterday (October 7, 2010) at the Bergen training ground in northern Germany. The modernized tanks are scheduled to equip the Canadian forces in Hindu-Kush in Afghanistan.
The Canadians embarked on this latest upgrade of the tank in July 2009, anticipating their next deployment in the Afghan theater. The new version is specially designed for operations in Afghanistan based on experience gained by other Leopard 2 operators, including the Denmark and Canadian forces. (operating the Leopard 2A6M)
The main focus of the A4M CAN design was consistent protection of the crews, who are subjected to enemy attacks with powerful anti-tank projectiles and are in constant danger from mines and IED’s (Improvised Explosive Devices). The starting point for the protection concept is outstanding protection from mines and good all-round protection. Furthermore, the capabilities of the new battle tank have been significantly extended by integrating a pioneer equipment interface. Mine rollers, mine ploughs and dozer blades allow the Canadian armed 3
The Leopard 2 is the heaviest, most powerful direct land combat system operated under ISAF command. Unlike many other systems, the tank can also operate and demonstrate its strengths in extremely dangerous environments and can also do this over long periods of time if necessary. Forces employing the tanks are able to carry out a wide range of tasks exposed to extremely dangerous environment, in spite of the small number of heavy vehicles. Currently the tanks are operated primarily in the northern areas; provisions have also been made for deployment in the extreme heat of southern Afghanistan.
With its armour, which goes far beyond that of any other battle vehicle, its speed, its agility and its precise and extremely effective weaponry, the tank has a tremendous amount of deterrent potential as far as the enemy is concerned, while strengthening the morale of the troops.
According to Alan Bignall, president and CEO of ReconRobotics, more than 1,200 Recon Scout Micro Robots are currently operational, and the new device will provide users unique new capabilities to gaining visual access into walled compounds, rooftops, attics, ventilation systems, tunnels and crawl spaces. And because most Recon Scout robots are equipped with infrared optical systems, this visual reconnaissance can be conducted even in complete darkness. “This ‘Know Before You Go’ capability allows tactical teams to quickly and safely clear large multi-level structures before personnel enter these environments” Said Bignall. Several branches of the U.S. military and international forces have deployed Recon Scout robots around the world, and are employed in route clearing operations, remote reconnaissance and IED inspection. Nearly 200 police and security agencies use Recon Scout robots for tactical reconnaissance, including the many police tactical teams as well as the FBI, U.S. Marshals, Border Patrol, DEA and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. When multiple robots are employed simultaneously in the same location, by different agencies, each robot operates on any of three transmitting frequencies, allowing police and military personnel to operate up to three robots in the same environment at the same time.
The Micro-Viper is a man-portable, light weight, tracked robotic platform designed to perform effectively in both outdoor and indoor environment as well as in underground scenes. The Mini-Viper is equipped with 360 degree vision by multiple staring video cameras. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense-Update
Following are first impressions from today’s exhibition at Latrun, Israel.
The Mini-Panther from IAI Malat made a surprise appearance at Latrun today. Mini-Panther is a 12 kg tilt-rotor UAV which provided the first proof of concept for the Panther line of vehicles. IAI plans to develop a wide range of aerial vehicles, configured for VTOL, high speed, tethered (kite-like platforms that can disconnect the tether and hover for extended period), as well as manned platforms. This photo shows a unique feature of the Panther - the flat lifting body and the payload bay that will eventually enable the vehicle to drop off or collect objects using a miniature manipulator arm. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update
The Pincher from Rafael is a mini-robotic counter-IED system, employing pirophoric arrows to deflagrate and deactivate explosive charges from a distance of 15 meters. The photo shows the payload and launchers stacking 4-16 pencil-sized rocket-propelled arrows fired precisely to hit a suspected charge. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense-Update
IAI/Malat Panther weighs 65 kg and carries the Mini-POP payload. Its power sources are suffucient to sustain about six hoiurs of flight. Panther could be equipped with rechargable or primary batteries or a hybrid system comprising a battery and fuel cell. Photo: Noam Eshel, defense-Update
The Mule from Urban Aeronautics continues flight testing, and has demonstrated stable hovering and low level flight. Photo: Noam Eshel, defense-Update
The Mule is designed to be transportable in heavy transport helicopters such as the CH-53 and EH-101, C-130 and C-17. In the operational scenarios, flying at a speed of up to 100 knots, Mules will offer safe evacuation of casualties from hot combat zones and an effective means of pushing supplies forward to combat troops. Photo: Noam Eshel, defense-Update
Eltics continues to move forward with its Black Fox thermal stealth system. At the Latrun event Eltics demonstrated its latest Black Fox prototype, designed to demonstrate the ability of the system to blend the signature of a full size vehicle with its surrounding, effectively providing 'thermal stealth' capability. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense-Update.
IAI Ramta displayed at Latrun a stretched version of the RAM armored vehicle, fitted with an assault or rapid evacuation ramp designed to enable access to higher floors in urban areas. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense-Update
IMI has unveiled a modified version of the Russian Tigr (Gaz-233014). The vehicle received an armor and automotive upgrade in Israel and was displayed at Latrun mounted with IMI's Bright Arrow - the active protection system integrated weapon station. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense-Update.
Plasan displayed the new 'Sandcat Commando' - a semi-protected long range patrol vehicle, offered with all-round protection, rear flatbed, roof gun mount and heavy duty suspension for improved mobility on rough roads. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense-Update
In 2008 the Israel Police has selected and ordered a specially configured version of the Sandcat. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense-Update.
IMI unveiled the Hornet - a new all-terrain vehicle (ATV) assembly designed for air assault (helicopter-borne) mortar teams. The two vehicle team comprises of two ATVs, equipped with target acquisition and precision aiming systems, mechanically reclined mortar assembly kit and ammunition carrier.
After unveiling the mini-Spike in last year's Latrun event, RAFAEL is now focusing on the integration of the lightweight missile with existing Spike kits, while reducing the weight and improving performance of the entire system. Designed as an anti-personnel guided weapon, Mini-Spike provides precision attack capability at ranges exceeding 1300 meters. Photo: Noam Eshel, defense-Update.
IAI Elta displayed the latest generation of its EL/I-6001 unattended ground sensor Network (UGSN) offering continuous tactical area monitoring. Photo: Noam Eshel, defense Update
Elbit presented the SAND - Smart, All-terrain Networked Sensors, advanced, persistent sensor that can monitor a wide area, detect and track human or vehicle movements and report alerts over secure, wireless networking. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense-Update
U.S. Army’s PEO Soldier has awarded Remington Arms Company a contract for the modification of 250 M24 sniper rifles, a first batch of up to 3,600 M-24s to be modified into the XM2010 weapon systems - what the Army calls the "M-24 reconfigured Sniper Weapon System”. Photo: US Army, PEO Soldier
The U.S. Army’s PEO Soldier has awarded Remington Arms Company a contract for the modification of 250 M24 sniper rifles, a first batch of up to 3,600 M-24s to be modified into the XM2010 weapon systems – what the Army calls the M24E1 ”reconfigured Sniper Weapon System”. The modified rifle is chambered for .300 Winchester Magnum cartridges, (originally the M-24 was designed for 7.62mm NATO .308 Winchester) significantly extending the weapon’s maximum effective range from 800 to 1,200 meters. The Army expects to begin fielding the upgraded weapons to deployed U.S. Army Snipers by the end of December 2010. The current upgrade is expected to sustain the XM2010 weapon system in service for at least 10 years and will serve as a precursor to future sniper systems. The value of the current award is $192,000 while the potential value of the entire program could reach $28.2 million
According to LTC Chris Lehner, Product Manager Individual Weapons at PEO Soldier, the program has matured within less than a year, through close cooperation between the Army and industry. “The XM2010 had pinpoint precision,” said SFC Robert Roof, NCOIC/Chief Instructor, United States Army Sniper School. “We were able to achieve shots well within the weapon’s capabilities both during limited visibility and during the day. The optics were clear and easy to use and the ergonomics of the weapon made it very comfortable to shoot.”
Besides the chambering to match the .300 Winchester Magnum cartridge, The M24 Sniper Weapon Systems upgrade comprises a Leupold Mark 4 6.5-20x50mm Extended Range / Tactical riflescope with advanced scalable ranging and targeting reticlel fielded with the AN/PVS-29 Clip-on Sniper Night Sight, and quick attach/detach suppressor to reduce audible and visible signature with an available thermal sleeve that reduces mirage effect on heated suppressors. The weapon uses a five-round box magazine, offering easier load and reload with the additional option to change out ammunition quickly. Each modified M-24 rifle has also gets rail endowed chassis and free floating barrel that allow for easier mounting of weapon accessories and greater accuracy, a folding and adjustable stock that includes comb and length-of-pull adjustments.
The GSM Dyneema HB80 composite has been extensively tested and evaluated in different helmet constructions and is currently in the final development testing phase of Enhanced Combat Helmet (ECH) program. Photo: PEO Soldier
DSM Dyneema has been awarded a contract for the development of an improved combat helmet based on advanced Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) material solution. DSM Dyneema has been focusing on research and development of new UHMPWE series of materials to substantially lighten the load for military and law enforcement. As part of the contract the company will develop new unidirectional (UD) materials suitable for the improved combat helmet next generation improved combat helmet application, offering superior ballistic performance at lower weight.
The company launched the Dyneema HB80 in June 2009. Initially known as Prototype Dyneema X31, this UD composite material has undergone extensive ballistic and secondary property testing, demonstrating the potential to significantly lighten the load carried by soldiers, providing greater comfort and mobility for soldiers wear protective gear. HB80 offers over the highest ballistic performance on the market today. With 35 percent greater protection against fragmentation threats and its advanced ballistic properties, SWAT helmets made of HB80 could be produced with half the weight of today’s models. This material has now been selected for both body and vehicle armor applications where ultra-light weight and enhanced performance are required.
The HB80 has been extensively tested and evaluated in different helmet constructions and is currently in the final development testing phase of ECH program. The ECH will use manufacturing techniques different from those associated with resin-impregnated para-aramids while the UHMWPE uses advanced thermoplastic processing.
According to DSM Dyneema the company is already working with all major helmet manufacturers involved in the Enhanced Combat Helmet (ECH) program. Unlike previous models made of Kevlar, Improved versions of the ECH will employ the high tech UHMWPE developed specifically to address the requirements of the U.S. Army and Marine Corps. The program is a joint PEO Soldier/Marine Corps Systems Command developmental effort that will provide increased protection against ballistic and fragmentation threats. Previous reports about the ECH mentioned that the new lightweight helmet will match or exceed the ballistic fragmentation resistance of current helmets offering a significant weight reduction of approximately 20%, which means above 0.5 pounds as compared to the older designs (reference).
Elbit Systems has developed a number of battle management systems designed for armored combat vehicles. This system employs the TORCH system employed by the IDF as part of the Digital Army Program (Zayad). Photo: Elbit Systems
Elbit Systems Ltd. announced today that it was awarded an approximately $56 million tank upgrade contract from a customer in Asia. The tank upgrade project will span over 24 months and include the installation of battle management systems (BMS), and optronic observation and surveillance systems. The current program is a follow-on upgrade Elbit Systems is conducting with this specific customer (the identity of the customer was not released).
Due to political implications and U.S. technology transfer limitations, Israeli companies are restricted in offering defense systems to a number of Asian countries. Among these, Azerbaijan, India, Singapore and Thailand fit the vague description provided by the company.
It was reported in the Indian media that the Indian state owned DRDO is cooperating with Elbit Systems in the development of Battlefield Management System for the Indian indigenous Arjun tank. BMS integration could follow as part of the continuous Indian upgrades of the T-72M tanks and, and, possibly with the T-90S. Such BMS allows the tank to network with other fighting units, enabling several tanks to network with other each other, to effectively engage multiple targets. On the other hand, Azerbaijan has recently received 62 T-72 tanks from Russian military surplus. Azeri T-72s have already been updated with new fire control and remotely controlled weapon station.
Recon Scout micro Robot can now be mounted on an extensible pole to act as a Pole Cam. Photo: ReconRobotics
ReconRobotics has introduced a new, versatile add-on to the Recon Scout Micro Robot enabling the use of the robot either as a remotely controlled sensor or static, elevated ‘Pole Cam’. The novel device enables military scouts to mount the Micro Robot on the 20 inch (0.52 m) long ‘Recon Scout Search Stick’, a quipped with actuated jaws that grasp the 1.2 pound Recon Scout micro robot.
The new ReconStick turns the remotely controlled Micro-Robot into a static, elevated 'Pole Cam'. Photo: ReconRobotics
The telescopic pole can be extended to 72 inch (1.78 m) in fully retracted mode, enabling scouts to easily see over a 12 foot (3.65 m) wall or into a second story window while maintaining protective cover. Throughout such inspections the robot transmits live video to a handheld operator control unit. The SearchStink can also be used to quietly place the robot at elevated or confined space, where it can then search the location for adversaries, IEDs or other threats. Once the inspection has been completed, the operator can use the jaws on the SearchStick to retrieve the robot.
According to Alan Bignall, president and CEO of ReconRobotics, more than 1,200 Recon Scout Micro Robots are currently operational, and the new device will provide users unique new capabilities to gaining visual access into walled compounds, rooftops, attics, ventilation systems, tunnels and crawl spaces. And because most Recon Scout robots are equipped with infrared optical systems, this visual reconnaissance can be conducted even in complete darkness. “This ‘Know Before You Go’ capability allows tactical teams to quickly and safely clear large multi-level structures before personnel enter these environments” Said Bignall.
Several branches of the U.S. military and international forces have deployed Recon Scout robots around the world, and are employed in route clearing operations, remote reconnaissance and IED inspection. Nearly 200 police and security agencies use Recon Scout robots for tactical reconnaissance, including the many police tactical teams as well as the FBI, U.S. Marshals, Border Patrol, DEA and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. When multiple robots are employed simultaneously in the same location, by different agencies, each robot operates on any of three transmitting frequencies, allowing police and military personnel to operate up to three robots in the same environment at the same time.
The U.S. Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD) is testing seven Active protection Systems, mostly from international vendors, to determine the maturity and potential of such systems, protecting U.S. forces against Rocket Propelled Grenades and other Anti-Armor weapons. The Active Protection Systems Live Fire Test and Evaluation effort, which was mandated by Congress in 2008 provides U.S. with comparative insight into potential defenses readily available to protect U.S. forces. The test program will also formulate a comparative baseline for consideration during possible future defense acquisition programs.
The congressionally mandated evaluation is performed by the OSD, with assistance of the Institute of Defense Analysis (IDA). The evaluation includes seven systems considered relatively ‘mature’. Sofar four systems were tested, including the Swedish-South African LEDS 150 from Saab, TRAPS developed by Textron Systems, the Israeli Iron Fist from IMI and Iron Curtain, a close-in APS developed by ARTIS. Yet to come early in 2011 are the AMAP-ADS close-in APS from the German company IBD, the Israeli Trophy, made by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, and Raytheon’s Quick Kill, originally developed for the Future Combat Systems program. The tests could also evaluate other experimental systems developed in the past decade such as the CICM, IAAPS and FCLAS, these could also be ‘revived’ for the tests.
LEDS-150 mounted on an Eagle light armored vehicle undergoing live firing test. Photo: Saab
The first test employed the LEDS 150 developed by Saab South African Avitronics subsidiary, in cooperation with ATK. For these tests the system was integrated on an Eagle armored vehicle. LEDS 150 employs radar and infrared sensors to detect and target the incoming threat, firing an active countermeasure destroying the threat far away from the protected vehicle. According to sources at Saab, the system performed well overall, but as it was the first time it was integrated on such a small vehicle, some of the elements did not perform as expected, and the team applied to repeat the test with new hardware.
Textron was the second to demonstrate the APS, and the first to demonstrate a ‘close-in’ system based on its Tactical Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) Airbag Protection System (TRAPS) system. For these tests TRAPS was mounted on a MRAP, effectively demonstrated its capability to protect armored vehicles against RPG threats. Textron also tested another countermeasure, called TRAPSNet – comprised of a modular net system. According to the company, these are the first in a family of countermeasures that will enable spiral upgrades to address advanced threats while maintaining the common hardware of the TRAPS system.
“We designed the TRAPS architecture to be flexible, scalable and highly effective,” says Chief Technology Officer Thomas McNamara of Textron Systems Corporation. “The system is compatible with multiple military vehicle types, and it delivers reliable, robust performance against different RPG threats while minimizing costly, time-consuming modifications and vehicle recertification tests. In addition, TRAPS offers significantly lower weight and demonstrated lower collateral damage than competing active protection systems. Following the successful OSD testing, we are prepared to deliver the customer a mature, affordable and rapidly deployable active vehicle protection solution.”
Another ‘Close-in’ type system tested recently is the Iron Curtain, developed by ARTIS. This system employs motion sensors and countermeasures fired downward, destroying an incoming RPG few inches ahead of the vehicle’s wall.
The most recent test involved a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle was fitted with the Israeli Iron-Fist active protection system developed by Israel Military Industries (IMI). The system withstood numerous rocket attacks under a two month test and evaluation program. According to IMI, the rigorous test program spanned over several months and evaluated the system under complex engagement scenarios. “The Iron Fist demonstrated exceptional performance in each test scenario. All tests were performed with the system installed on the MRAP vehicle.” An IMI source told Defense Update.
The Iron Fist APS uses passive and active sensors for threat detection, situational awareness and fire control. The system can employ both an electro-optical ‘soft kill’ countermeasure and ‘hard kill’ interceptors that are launched against incoming threats, therefore covering a broader spectrum of threats, compared to RPG-dedicated ‘Close-In’ type APS. “The combination of soft and hard kill methods effectively defeats RPGs and guided missiles, including advanced models fitted with tandem warheads, as well as tank rounds.” In addition to its defensive role, the IMI system also contributes to situational awareness and counter-action: In addition to the protection by soft and hard kill means Iron Fist accurately identifies the enemy firing positions, enabling rapid counterstrike thus eliminating repeated attacks.
The Israel Defense Force (IDF) has selected to equip the Iron Fist on its new Namer Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). The system is currently in final development and integration for the Namer. During the VIP event that followed the successful test IMI presented potential applications of the Iron Fist, designed for medium and light vehicles, including the man-portable, ‘Shock Absorber’ missile ‘soft kill’ countermeasure solution, and a light-weight, ‘Bright Arrow’ remotely controlled weapon station with Iron Fist integrated, which can be installed on a HMMWV.
IDF Approves Acquisition of IMI’s Iron Fist APS for Namer AIFVs
Iron Fist employs blast effect to defeat the incoming target, whether a shaped charge of an RPG or HEAT warhead of an anti-tank or HEAT tank round, or even a high speed kinetic penetrator, fired by a tank gun. Photo: IMIwave to
A Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle fitted with the Israeli active protection system developed by Israel Military Industries withstood numerous rocket attacks under a two month test and evaluation program.
Iron Fist, the active protection system (APS) for armored vehicles developed by Israel Military Industries (IMI), has completed an evaluation by the U.S. Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD) as part of a congressionally mandated evaluation of domestic and foreign APS. For the OSD evaluation IMI integrated the Iron Fist onto a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected, or MRAP, vehicle. The rigorous test program spanned over several months and evaluated the system under complex engagement scenarios. The Iron Fist demonstrated exceptional performance in each test scenario. All tests were performed with the system installed on the MRAP vehicle.
The evaluation culminated with a VIP event attended by senior members of the OSD, which also included a presentation of other IMI APS products, including the man-portable, ‘Shock Absorber’ missile ‘soft kill’ countermeasure solution, and a light-weight, ‘Bright Arrow’ remotely controlled weapon station with Iron Fist integrated, which was installed on a HMMWV.
An early stage Iron-Fist interceptor about to engage an incoming RPG. Photo by a high speed camera, courtesy of IMI.
The Iron Fist APS uses passive and active sensors for threat detection, situational awareness and fire control. The system can employ both an electro-optical ‘soft kill’ countermeasure and ‘hard kill’ interceptors that are launched against incoming threats. The combined soft and hard kill method effectively defeats threats such as RPGs and guided missiles, including advanced models fitted with tandem warheads, as well as tank rounds. In addition to the protection by soft and hard kill means Iron Fist accurately identifies the enemy firing positions, enabling rapid counterstrike thus eliminating repeated attacks.
The Israel Defense Force (IDF) has selected to equip the Iron Fist on its new Namer Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). The Iron Fist is currently in final development and integration for the Namer.
Navistar unveiled the new MTV, high mobility tactical truck based on the 7000_MV platform. Photo: Navistar Defense
Navistar Defense, LLC unveiled today a new, high-mobility medium tactical vehicle (MTV) at the Modern Day Marine Exposition. The MTV is based on the International 7000-MV platform. The MTV incorporates the DXM independent suspension and can also accommodate a variety of survivability and armoring solutions derived from the International MaxxPro Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle.
The MTV also incorporates automatic traction control, anti-lock brakes, self-diagnostics, advanced electronics systems optional central tire inflation system (CTIS). It is offered with two powertrain options – utilizing the MaxxForce D 9.3L and 13L powertrains. The vehicle is capable of climbing a 60 percent gradient and maneuvering 40 percent side slopes.
The MTV can be equipped with armor modules derived from the Army's MaxxPro MRAP vehicle. Photo: Navistar Defenseeled,
According to Archie Massicotte, president, Navistar Defense, since receiving the first contract in 2005 Navistar Defense has delivered more than 21,000 7000-MV vehicle platforms in 13 different variants. The current variant adds survivability and independent suspension technologies meeting the requirements of U.S. and allied nations operating in Afghanistan. The company recently completed building 1,130 MaxxPro Dash vehicles with the DXM independent suspension for fielding in Afghanistan. An additional 1,222 Dash units already in operation will also soon be retrofitted with the DXM suspension solution. Navistar medium tactical vehicles are currently in operation in countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Canada, Israel, Jordan and Taiwan.
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An airborne electro-optical laser sensor designed to detect minefields has demonstrated the ability to detect simulated improvised explosive devices. The Airborne Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Minefield Detection System (ASTAMIDS) developed by Northrop Grumman, demonstrated this capability during an Army evaluation of the new system. The system was flown on the MQ-8B Fire Scout unmanned aerial system.
