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.

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

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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.

Mobius Protection Systems (PS), a designer, engineer and manufacturer of survivability products – from crash and blast protection in combat vehicles and aircraft to car safety products in vehicles. The company’s products implement innovative and unique, patent pending energy absorption techniques facilitating flexible and simple safety and survivability solutions assuring flawless performance under the most demanding conditions.

Company website: mobius-ps.com

The patent pending EA technology was developed by Mobius PS team of expert engineers, having the insight, knowledge and operational experience in designing and developing blast protected combat platforms and shock absorbing systems. Many of the company’s expert engineers are veterans of Israel’s Defense Forces Merkava tank program.

Mobius PS proven technology is based on a simple approach, utilizing a single, factory tunable element, manufactured to meet preset EA characteristics. The fixed Profile Energy Absorption element performs its mission with continuous self-adjusting dynamic attenuation, providing maximum protection to full range of occupants weights, from light 5th percentile female up to heavy 95th percentile male and beyond. This implementation provides a straightforward attachment of crew seats, passenger seats or benches, to the floor or to the walls, without the need for motion guides, rails or complex suspension and isolation techniques. Using light, strong seat frames and attachments the seats are validated to face multi-directional impacts, from blast or accident and crash scenarios. To restrain the occupants to their seats, 4-5 point safety belts, all-belts-to-seat, adjustable head-rest (available with side supports) are also provided.

Mobius PS offers its EA technology as off-the-shelf products, ready for integration in new vehicles, as add-on upgrade for legacy seats, as well as custom designed kits. The EA systems can be provided both with original seats as well as Add-On for legacy seats, meeting the most stringent requirements and minimum physical space claim available. Mobius PS also offers complete system integration for maximal protection and has been cooperating with a number of international companies in the field.

The unique EA technology developed by Mobius PS  is integrated in various blast protection mechanisms employed in modern military vehicles, designed to protect soldiers from mines and Improvised Explosive Devices (IED). The technology developed by Mobius PS rapidly dissipates the energies experience by the vehicle in multi-hit scenarios. Unlike other EA techniques relying on complex assemblies, suspensions rigs or moving parts, susceptible to degradation by environmental conditions and corrosion, the AE developed by Mobius PS protects from IEDs mines without compromising on performance, safety, ergonomics and user comfort.

Mobius Protection Systems’ product lines includes the following systems:

• Floor and Wall Mounted Blast Protected Seats
• Confined Space Blast Protection Applications
• Energy Absorbing Mounts and Sockets
• Seat Accessories

Floor and Wall Mounted Blast Protected Seats.

Floor and Wall Mounted Blast Protected Seats

The floor-mounting Blast and Crash Protection Energy Absorbing mechanism can be implemented as a standalone system and can be incorporated with legacy seats. FMVSS certified, the seat is available in three different height configurations, with an adjustable or fixed frame, fore and aft adjustment and ergonomic foam structure. The seat retains four or five attachment points for safety belts. Wall mounted configurations also has Foldable pan and back for access to the wall. Back

These FMVSS certified seats are available in different height configuration as-well-as custom design for special requests. The seats are compatible with standard fore/aft adjustment slides. Mobius PS EA technology is also available with original GSS seat or as an Add-on system for legacy seats. Integral feet protection is also optional for floor mounted seats, where the EA element effectively keeps the occupant’s feet away from the floor during an explosion event. Back

Confined Space Blast Protection Applications from Mobius PS

Confined Space Blast Protection Applications

For applications where available space is limited, Mobius PS provides effective EA solutions employing compact wall-mounted front-facing EA and bench alternative blast protected seating system. The wall mounting assembly has Pan and back that fold flat against the wall, using a snap-lock to open into a seating position. The blast protected bench introduces a unique, light and survivable alternative to seat an entire squad. The bench comprises a series of sectioned personal EA seats grouped together into a single unit that Pan folds flat against the wall. In case of an explosion, each seat acts individually to provide maximum protection to each individual.

Mobius PS can also adapt the EA assembly to meet limited space requirement or upgrade existing attachments, such as implementing floor mounted devices over wall mounted brackets or Wall-mounted seats over floor-mounting brackets. In special circumstances where floor-mounted configuration cannot fit, Mobius PS provides a low profile EA assembly integrated with height adjuster, offering the crew uncompromised protection and ride comfort. Back

Energy Absorbing Mounts and Sockets

To prevent objects from tearing out of their mountings by the blast effect, thus becoming life threatening fragments, Mobius has developed energy absorbing mounts that replace standard mountings used for the attachment of internal equipment such as radios, ammunition boxes, batteries etc. Under all operating conditions these mounts perform as the original mount, but deform to absorb the blast forces when exposed to extreme accelerations. Back

Seat Accessories

The company also offers different accessories for the seats, including height adjusters, for/aft adjustment, special installation brackets, etc. Back