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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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).

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.

Related links:

• Active protection for Armored Vehicles
• APS Developments in the U.S. Army
• Eurosatory 2008: Active protection systems
• Airbag RPG Countermeasure Completes First Testing Phase
• Trophy Completes Integration to Retrofit the Merkava Mk4 Tank
• MERKAVA – 40 Years of Action
• IDF Approves Acquisition of IMI’s Iron Fist APS for Namer AIFVs

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.

Related posts:

• IDF Approves Acquisition of IMI’s Iron Fist APS for Namer AIFVs
• IMI’s Iron Fist APS

new features introduced with the new model are the use of modern, more powerful drive train with optional automatic transmission, improved protection and more ergonomic cabin. Photo: Denel

31 years after pioneering mine protection for vehicles with the first Casspir Mine Protected Vehicle (MPV) Denel unveiled today a new version of South Africa’s iconic mine-protection vehicle – Casspir MK IV. The new vehicle was launched today in Cape Town today, at the African Aerospace and Defence Expo (AAD) taking place at the Ysterplaat Air Force Base.

According to Ashley Williams, CEO of Denel’s subsidiary Mechem, responsible for the vehicle design, new features introduced with the new model are the use of modern, more powerful drive train with manual or automatic transmission, a stronger hull offering improved protection, including ‘up armoring’ with appliqué armor modules, a slightly wider and lower cabin, offering improved interior design.

“Mechem took the strategic decision to build this configuration again due to the great demand still in the market. In the last few years, most of these vehicles were re-manufactured from hulls bought from SAPS auctions and tender processes causing depletion in actionable stock. There was also concern over the supply of spare parts,” said Mr Williams.

According to Denel CEO, Mr Talib Sadik, Casspir had been the benchmark for the safe transportation of military personnel worldwide and the vehicle is the preferred Mine Protection Vehicle and Armored Personnel Carrier used by the United Nations. It has been used in combat in many of the world’s hot spots, from Afghanistan to Mozambique, by the South African National Defence Force, private security companies and police services. Casspir became famous in popular culture when it featured prominently in the Oscar-nominated film, District Nine. The first Casspir was built in 1979 by TFM.

Mechem also offers the ‘Steel Wheels’ counter-mine system for the Casspir, enabling the vehicle to destroy land mines without damaging the vehicle.

RADA Electronic Industries Ltd. (NASDAQ: “RADA”) is a Defense Electronics System House specializing in sophisticated, military-oriented electronic systems for airborne and land applications. RADA offers complete system solutions in addition to OEM subsystems and products, designed primarily for the aerospace and defense markets.

Website link: rada.com

RADA’s product lines include :

• Data Recording & Management
• Inertial Navigation Systems (INS)
• Avionic Solutions
• Radar Sensors for Force Protection Systems

RADA is a recognized world leader in the field of airborne video and data recordings. The company’s INS solutions, based on Fiber Optic Gyros (FOG) or Micro-Electro Mechanical Sensors (MEMS), are highly affordable and are suitable to a wide range of airborne and land military applications . RADA’s Radar technology provides compact and affordable sensors for APS and Perimeter Surveillance.

Based on its product range and extensive engineering experience, the company also offers complete system solutions, primarily in video and data recording and management systems, and avionic upgrade suits for military and aircraft and Mission (ISR) aircraft .

RADA’s customers include leading air forces the world over and prime integrators such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, General Electric, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Embraer, Israel Military Industry (IMI) and many others .

RADA was founded in 1970 and has been traded on the NASDAQ stock exchange since 1985. RADA’s Chairman and President is Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Herzle Bodinger, who served as the Israeli Air Force Commander prior to joining the company.

RADA is certified to ISO-9000: 2000, AS9100B, and ISO-14001 standards.

Data Recording and Management

Digital Video Recorders, Flight Data Recorders, HUD Video Cameras, and Post-Mission Ground Debriefing Solutions.

Inertial Navigation Systems (INS)

FOG-Based Navigation Grade EGI and IMU (the R-100F family), MEMS-Based INS and IMU compact solutions (the R-200M family), for airborne and land applications.

Avionics Solutions

Aircraft Avionics Upgrades, ISR Aircraft Upgrades, and a wide variety of Avionics Subsystems for manned and unmanned vehicles.

Radar Sensors for Force Protection Systems

Compact, lightweight – yet armored – pulse-Doppler Digital Radars, for Active Protection Systems (APS) for armored vehicles and tanks, and Perimeter Surveillance Radars (PSR) for stationary and HLS applications.

Defense Update posts about RADA:

• Eurosatory 2010 Report
• Rada Unveil the Sentinel radar for APS
• Digital Video Recorders Reach the Battlefield
• Generic Avionics Set Path for the Network Centric Israel Air Force
• Heron TP (Eitan) Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV
• Ground Debriefing System for Israel’s F-16I Soufa
• High Capacity Digital Video Recorder
• NGC, RADA Team to Offer a Tactical Rocket Laser Shield
• Israel Air Force to Deploy a New Video Recorder & Data Server from RADA

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

In April 2010 the U.S. subsidiary of the Australian company Metal Storm has won a $1.48 development contract, awarded by the U.S. Marine Corps, for the development and demonstration of Mission Payload Module for the Non Lethal Weapon System (MPM-NLWS). The system is based on Metal Storm’s FireStorm weapon system.


This weapon addresses the corps’ requirement for an effective crowd control weapon, enabling a single HMMWV to cover a wide area. The system and payload should be effective at distances of 30-150 meters, disperse over 25 m2 or more within 4-8 seconds and incapacitate 75% of personnel within this target area for a minimum duration of 20 seconds or up to five minutes. The Marines intend to buy an initial batch of 312 MPM-NLWS in the first acquisition spiral. For this contract we lead a team including BAE Systems.

Originally, FireStorm was designed as a four barrel, 24 shot automatic grenade launcher, based on the EOS multi-purpose remotely controlled weapon station. The Marines will be able to tailor the system to their requirements, stacking 10, 15, or even 30 barrels on each platform, depending on specific requirements. For the demonstration testing the NLWS will be attached to the overhead gun shield also known as the Marine Corps Transparent Armored Gun Shield  or MCTAGS. The FireStorm can fire both lethal and non-lethal munitions. For the non lethal munitions, different munitions could be used to deliver a wide range of effects, with frangible impact node, irritant, cargo rounds and advanced airburst flash-bang projectiles. The same system can also fire lethal grenades as well.