Military Systems and Technology

When Five Tonnes Decline to Slow on Demand

tony — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:46:59 +0000

When Five Tonnes Decline to Slow on Demand tony Thu, 03/12/2026 - 08:46

In discussions about civilian armoured vehicles, people tend to focus on the obvious measures of protection, armour ratings, glazing, and external security indicators. That’s important, of course, but the systems you don’t immediately see can be just as critical for keeping the occupants safe. Braking performance is a perfect example.

The issue came into sharp focus at the 4th Annual CAV Forum in Geneva, where specialists, End Users and engineers examined how armouring alters vehicle dynamics in ways that are sometimes acknowledged, sometimes glossed over. Sascha Lucas of MOV’IT High Performance Brakes tackled it head-on, focusing not on marketing claims or component aesthetics but on the physics governing deceleration in high-mass platforms.

Because once armour is added, the numbers change rather quickly.

A production SUV designed around a gross vehicle weight in the region of three tonnes can, after conversion to higher ballistic levels, exceed five tonnes. The increase isn’t incremental; it is transformational. Kinetic energy rises with the square of speed and scales with mass, so braking events that were comfortably within the thermal capacity of the OEM brake system can begin to drive temperatures into regimes where fade, pad degradation, and inconsistent pedal force to braking ratio appear. Not immediately, perhaps. But under repeated load cycles.

Lucas’s argument was measured and, frankly, difficult to dispute. Larger rotors and multi-piston callipers are not a shortcut to shorter stopping distances; tyre grip and ABS thresholds remain decisive. The engineering challenge lies elsewhere – heat dissipation, stiffness under pressure, friction stability at elevated temperatures, and repeatability across successive braking events.

Repeatability matters more than peak figures.

Thermal management, in particular, becomes unforgiving in armoured vehicles. Each high-energy stop converts substantial kinetic energy into heat. Without sufficient rotor mass, ventilation, and pad material resilience, temperatures climb quickly. As they climb, friction coefficients drift. Pedal travel lengthens. Driver confidence erodes. It is rarely one dramatic failure; more often a gradual softening, a hint of inconsistency, the sense that something is not responding quite as crisply as it should.

Uncertainty creeps in.

These considerations sit squarely within the operational territory of TSS International. Established in 1976 in the Netherlands, TSS has long positioned itself around what it terms “Armour Mobility”, a practical recognition that protection is compromised if a vehicle cannot maintain control, manoeuvrability, and mechanical reliability under increased mass and altered load distribution.

Brakes are central to that equation.

TSS’s approach has historically centred on runflat systems, heavy-duty wheel assemblies, and associated mobility solutions, but braking upgrades have become an increasingly important element as vehicle weights continue to rise. Partnerships with specialists such as MOV’IT GmbH reflect a systems-level view: braking performance cannot be treated as an isolated upgrade bolted onto an otherwise unchanged platform.

Everything interacts. Tyres, suspension, axle loads, brake balance.

And this is where the conversation becomes, admittedly, a little less tidy. Because once you begin tracing cause and effect, increased kerb weight leading to higher kinetic energy, leading to elevated brake temperatures, leading to potential fade, leading to longer stopping distances, leading to greater tyre load transfer, leading to altered stability margins, you realise how quickly “just fit bigger brakes” reveals itself as an incomplete and unsatisfactory answer.

It rarely is that simple.

TSS’s broader portfolio reflects that interconnected reality. Heavy-duty wheels address higher static and dynamic loads. Runflat systems preserve mobility after tyre damage. Suspension enhancements compensate for mass and centre-of-gravity shifts. Self-sealing fuel tanks mitigate secondary risks associated with ballistic threats. Each subsystem, while distinct, contributes to maintaining predictable vehicle behaviour.

Predictability. That’s the thread running through all of it.

The CAV Forum discussions reinforced a shift already underway within the sector. Buyers and operators are asking different questions now. Less emphasis on component dimensions or piston counts, more on thermal curves, fade resistance, and behaviour under repeated braking cycles. How does the system respond after successive high-energy stops? Does pedal travel remain stable? Is brake balance preserved as axle loads change with armour distribution? These are not abstract concerns. Civilian armoured vehicles spend much of their service life in dense urban traffic, executing frequent low-speed stops interspersed with occasional high-load braking events. Add gradients, high ambient temperatures, variable road surfaces, the duty cycle is neither gentle nor predictable.

Which is precisely the point.

Perhaps the most useful takeaway from Lucas’s presentation was not a specific technical detail but a framing: braking systems in armoured vehicles are not performance accessories. They are safety-critical controls operating under conditions for which the original vehicle was never designed.

A subtle distinction, but an important one.

In protective mobility, success rarely announces itself as a distinct dramatic moment, there is no visible confirmation that accompanies accomplishment. It is present instead in the absence of incident, the vehicle that slows consistently, the driver who trusts the pedal response, the occupants who remain unaware of the thermal and mechanical margins being quietly managed beneath them. It’s not glamorous, just dependable, and in this field, dependable is exactly what you want.

Supplier

TSS International

Date

Thu, 03/12/2026 - 08:38

Subtitle

Stopping power, heat, and the awkward physics of armoured mass

Images

Title

When Five Tonnes Decline to Slow on Demand

Description

In discussions about civilian armoured vehicles, people tend to focus on the obvious measures of protection, armour ratings, glazing, and external sec...

ARGON AND KROMEK DEVELOPED D5 RIID SIMULATOR MODULE

tony — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:30:16 +0000

ARGON AND KROMEK DEVELOPED D5 RIID SIMULATOR MODULE tony Wed, 03/11/2026 - 11:30

Kromek, the leading developer of radiation detection technology and Argon Electronics, the foremost manufacturer of CBRN simulation systems, have collaborated to develop a dedicated simulator module for Kromek’s ground-breaking D5 RIID hand-held device. This new capability enables operators to conduct high-fidelity radiological search exercises without the need for live radiological sources, enhancing training realism while improving safety, accessibility, and operational readiness. Based upon patented RaFTS spectrometry simulation technology developed by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) which is exclusively licensed to Argon, the simulator module will allow D5 RIID users to temporarily convert their operational detector for training use to explore and use the impressive capabilities of this high-performance detector in lifelike operational scenarios. The D5 RIID can detect and identify mixed, shielded, or heavily obscured isotope configurations and confirm radionuclide identification across naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM), as well as industrial, medical, and special nuclear materials.

All human interface aspects of the D5 RIID are fully maintained; most impressively the ability to provide spectra files for reach back analysis by third parties.

The D5 RIID simulator module will also integrate with PlumeSIM, Argon’s wide area and classroom CBRN training platform, as well as being compatible with Argon’s extensive range of survey and Personal Electronic Dosimetry simulators.

Steven Pike, Managing Director at Argon Electronics said, “Kromek is an impressive company with outstanding products, and Argon is delighted to be working with such an excellent team to create what will be a world class training accessory for Kromek’s D5 RIID customers. This agreement represents the latest in a long line of leading detector manufacturers who have selected Argon as a simulation partner. We are proud to able to provide responders with the best possible training simulators to ensure their operational readiness”

“The D5 RIID is Kromek’s most advanced and sensitive hand-held detector. Working with Argon, whose CBRN specialist simulation capabilities are unparalleled, we can provide the most realistic and effective training to the D5 RIID user community,” said Craig Duff, Director of Products & Programmes at Kromek.

Supplier

Argon Electronics (UK) Ltd

Date

Wed, 03/11/2026 - 11:27

Subtitle

Images

Title

ARGON AND KROMEK DEVELOPED D5 RIID SIMULATOR MODULE

Description

Kromek, the leading developer of radiation detection technology and Argon Electronics, the foremost manufacturer of CBRN simulation systems, have coll...

Quietly Critical:

tony — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:24:20 +0000

Quietly Critical: tony Wed, 03/11/2026 - 11:24

From lifecycle resilience to high-speed VPX and SOSA-aligned architectures, Interface Concept has built its reputation on hardware that keeps going as programmes, platforms and requirements change.

Some companies grab the headlines; others just get on with it, becoming part of the kit engineers rely on day in, day out. Interface Concept is definitely in that second camp. Whether it's radar processing, mission computing, networking backplanes or subsystem integration, their boards are usually there doing a simple job: shifting data reliably, putting up with rough conditions and staying supportable long after the original plans are old news.

Founded back in 1987 and based in Quimper, the company has spent nearly four decades designing and making embedded boards and systems for defence, aerospace and tough industrial settings. In this line of work, longevity isn't about flashy branding, it's a must. Platforms stick around for decades, while needs shift, parts go obsolete and supply chains get shaken up.

IC has a straightforward, methodical way of doing things.

The company takes a proactive approach to obsolescence, tracking component status, arranging last-time buys, qualifying second sources and planning redesigns well in advance. Where possible, compatible parts are introduced as straightforward substitutions; where that is not viable, PCBs are adjusted to accommodate alternatives or components are stockpiled to bridge supply gaps. For higher-volume programmes, form, fit and function replacements are offered, and for platforms unable to absorb that change, then dedicated storage options can be put in place. It is a practical, methodical model familiar to anyone involved in sustainment or mid-life upgrades, underpinned by long-term technical support spanning hardware, low-level software, repairs and lifecycle commitments that frequently extend beyond a decade.

Evolving architectures: VME, VPX and FPGA

Interface Concept’s products have evolved alongside broader trends in embedded defence electronics. VME was the mainstay for loads of older mission systems, while VPX, OpenVPX and SOSA profiles are now key for newer ones, thanks to demands for more bandwidth and better interoperability.

“We’ve kept an eye on emerging standards,” Brigitte Jousselin, in charge of Marketing & Communication Interface Concept said. “We brought in VPX designs not long after the standard came out, and by 2010 we were shipping a 6U VPX Ethernet switch and single-board computers.”

At the same time, the company has continued to invest in VME, recognising that many deployed platforms will remain in service for years to come. The architecture is still widely used, and new Intel Tiger Lake and Arm-based VME boards are being introduced alongside an updated Ethernet switch range, including VITA 31.1 variants. This two-pronged strategy reflects operational reality: naval vessels, aircraft and land systems rarely undergo wholesale architectural replacement, resulting in mixed environments where backward compatibility is essential.

Networking at the centre of the system

IC’s ComEth Ethernet switch and router family is central to their networking lineup. It comes in 3U and 6U VPX, plus VME and CompactPCI formats, scaling from 1 GbE up to 100 GbE, with support for copper, fibre, optical front panels and VITA 66.5 interfaces. Setups include Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching, dual-plane designs and hybrid Ethernet/PCIe fabrics. In data-heavy sensor setups like ISR payloads, EW suites and distributed processing nodes, the switch basically becomes the backbone rather than just a link.

On top of the hardware, sits their in-house Switchware management stack, offering CLI, GUI and SNMP interfaces with a solid feature set. Having the hardware and control software tightly aligned cuts down on the usual hassle of shoehorning third-party products into platforms they weren't built for.

Compute density and flexible processing

For compute, IC’s SBC and DSP range covers Intel Xeon D and Xeon W processors, plus the Arm-based ones using NXP Layerscape and QorIQ chips. Standard setups include ECC-protected memory, high-speed Ethernet, PCIe links and, in some cases, onboard FPGAs for acceleration or custom interfaces. FPGA-centric platforms, like front-end processing boards with AMD Kintex, UltraScale and Versal devices, handle deterministic processing and low-latency data. FMC and FMC+ mezzanine support lets you add modular I/O without redoing the base board.

But performance is only half the story. Thermal management, mechanical limits and ruggedisation are make-or-break, not should-have, especially in conduction-cooled setups.

As Lionel Provost, Strategy and Marketing Vice-President, put it: “We invest in cutting-edge embedded technologies while preserving our added value in the system’s critical elements, including thermal management, performance and modularity.”

In-house control and sovereignty considerations

With cybersecurity ramping up and supply chains under the microscope, procurement choices are shifting. Interface Concept’s focus on internal development ties into both technical and strategic needs, with hardware design, firmware, bootloaders and board support packages all done in-house.

“We keep a secure development chain,” Mikelig Roudaut, Sales Director Interface Concept continues “Hardware, firmware, bootloader and BSP are all controlled internally, which helps with code integrity and cybersecurity goals. We also stick to European design and manufacturing, with our own export-control know-how covering ITAR and EAR.”

This fits the growing push in NATO and allied programmes for sovereignty and clear software origins. Open standards, applied pragmatically. The company slots its portfolio into open architectures, especially VPX, OpenVPX and SOSA principles.

“The SOSA Technical Standard and MOSA approach are reshaping defence systems by enabling faster integration and long-term availability,” Lionel, said recently “We aim to support that shift with a field-proven portfolio of SOSA-aligned solutions.”

That said, the company knows formal standards sit alongside programme-specific needs and wider frameworks like STANAG. In the end, aligning with standards has to be balanced against optimising performance and fitting mission limits.

Agility and engineering depth

In a market with big multinationals and specialist niches, IC sets itself apart with quick decisions and solid expertise.

Mikelig sums it up “Fast decision cycles, strong low-level software and hardware know-how, and a wide portfolio. Customers like an ecosystem that covers switches, SBCs, FPGA platforms, firmware, BSPs and long-term support.”

It's a straightforward pitch, but it matches how long-term customers see the company: solid expertise, ongoing commitment and steady improvements. More often than not, that comes down to hardware that just keeps working through upgrades, redesigns and years of service. For engineers juggling performance, interoperability and longevity, that history is the reassurance they depend on.

Supplier

INTERFACE CONCEPT

Date

Wed, 03/11/2026 - 11:20

Subtitle

The Embedded Boards Powering Defence Systems

Images

Title

Quietly Critical:

Description

The Embedded Boards Powering Defence Systems From lifecycle resilience to high-speed VPX and SOSA-aligned architectures, Interface Concept has built i...

Kromek and Argon Developed D5 RIID Training Simulator

tony — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:02:37 +0000

Kromek and Argon Developed D5 RIID Training Simulator tony Tue, 03/10/2026 - 12:02

This new capability enables operators to conduct high-fidelity radiological search exercises without the need for live radiological sources, enhancing training realism while improving safety, accessibility, and operational readiness.

Based upon patented RaFTS spectrometry simulation technology developed by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) which is exclusively licensed to Argon, the simulator module will allow D5 RIID users to temporarily convert their operational detector for training use to explore and use the impressive capabilities of this high-performance detector in lifelike operational scenarios.

The D5 RIID can detect and identify mixed, shielded, or heavily obscured isotope configurations and confirm radionuclide identification across naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM), as well as industrial, medical, and special nuclear materials.

All human interface aspects of the D5 RIID are fully maintained; most impressively the ability to provide spectra files for reach back analysis by third parties.

Steven Pike, Managing Director at Argon Electronics said,

“Kromek is an impressive company with outstanding products, and Argon is delighted to be working with such an excellent team to create what will be a world class training accessory for Kromek’s D5 RIID customers.

This agreement represents the latest in a long line of leading detector manufacturers who have selected Argon as a simulation partner. We are proud to able to provide responders with the best possible training simulators to ensure their operational readiness.”

Craig Duff, Director of Products & Programmes at Kromek added,

Supplier

Kromek

Date

Tue, 03/10/2026 - 12:01

Images

Title

Kromek and Argon Developed D5 RIID Training Simulator

Description

Kromek, the leading developer of radiation detection technology and Argon Electronics, the foremost manufacturer of CBRN simulation systems, have coll...

The Military systems and Technology Benchmark for Parylene Coating.

tony — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:52:14 +0000

The Military systems and Technology Benchmark for Parylene Coating. tony Tue, 03/10/2026 - 09:52

In aerospace, defense, and high-reliability electronics, failure is not an option.

The protection of micro-electronics, complex geometries, and sensitive assemblies require more than a coating process, it requires a controlled, certified, and engineered system designed for repeatability at the microscopic level.

That is where Advanced Coating stands apart.

Located in Rancho Cucamonga, California, Advanced Coating has become synonymous with precision Parylene conformal coating for aerospace, defense, medical, and industrial electronics where performance, protection, and uniformity are non-negotiable.

Driving Toward NADCAP Certification in 2026

As part of our continued commitment to the highest level of process control and quality assurance, Advanced Coating is on track to achieve NADCAP accreditation in 2026 for our Parylene conformal coating processes.

NADCAP is not simply a certification — it is the aerospace and defense industry’s benchmark for:

Verified process control
Documented repeatability
Operator qualification and training
Strict material traceability
Equipment calibration and maintenance discipline
Audit-proven compliance to aerospace special process requirements

For OEMs, primes, and Tier suppliers, NADCAP signals one thing clearly:

Your coating partner operates at the same disciplined level as your flight-critical manufacturing processes.

This accreditation strengthens our existing AS9100 / ISO 9001 quality management system and aligns Advanced Coating directly with the stringent expectations of military specifications, aerospace standards, and high-reliability electronics manufacturing.

Engineered for Complex Geometry and Micro-Tolerance Applications

Parylene is uniquely suited for the protection of advanced electronics — but only when applied with precision.

Advanced Coating specializes in:

Uniform micron-level thickness control
Complex 3D geometries and tight tolerances
Optical clarity applications
High-temperature and specialty Parylene variants
Selective masking and precision application
Repeatable coverage on sensitive assemblies
Protection against vibration, altitude change, moisture, fuels, and contaminants

Our processes are engineered to ensure consistent dielectric strength, chemical resistance, and long-term reliability in the harshest operating environments.

Current Certifications & Compliance Capabilities at Advanced Coating

Advanced Coating’s Parylene conformal coating services are backed by a suite of formal quality and compliance credentials that position the company as a trusted partner for defense, aerospace, and high-reliability electronics programs:

Formal Quality & Aerospace Certifications

SO 9001:2015 — International standard for quality management systems.
AS9100D — Aerospace quality management system meeting stringent industry requirements.

These certifications demonstrate that Advanced Coating operates within an established quality structure recognized globally in aerospace and defense supply chains — from documentation and process control to continuous improvement and corrective action systems.

Defense & Security Compliance

ITAR Registered — Compliant with U.S. export controls crucial for defense-related coating services.
ISO 27001 & NIST 800-171 Compliant — Frameworks for information security and protection of controlled data in supply chains.

Environmental & Material Standards

REACH & RoHS Compliant — Demonstrates responsible material use and alignment with global hazardous substances restrictions.
FDA Biocompatibility — Supporting medical and implantable applications.

Process & Production Compliance

ESD Compliant — Fully Electrostatic Discharge-protected production environment.
FOD Program Compliance — Foreign Object Debris control systems in place to support high-risk aerospace/defense production.

Industry Application Standards

Per industry-recognized coating techniques and test standards:

IPC-CC-830 Type XY conformal coating standard.

Quality and On-Time Delivery That Customers Rely On

Advanced Coating is recognized by customers across aerospace, defense, and medical sectors for two defining characteristics: Uncompromising Quality & Consistent On-Time Delivery

These are not marketing claims, they are operating principles embedded into our daily production systems, planning discipline, and continuous improvement culture.

Our customers trust us because we understand that coating is often the final step before assembly, integration, or deployment. Delays and defects are simply not acceptable.

Partnership at the R&D Stage

What truly differentiates Advanced Coating is how early we engage.

We work directly with engineering and R&D teams during development to:

Review design intent and geometry
Identify masking and coverage risks early
Recommend Parylene variants based on environment and function
Prevent downstream coating issues before production begins
Reduce rework, scrap, and schedule delays

This proactive communication ensures a smoother path from prototype to production and strengthens long-term customer partnerships built on technical trust.

LEADERSHIP DRIVING THE FUTURE OF PARYLENE

“Innovation in Parylene isn’t about tomorrow, it’s about delivering next-generation performance today.” Ernest Garcia

Under the leadership of General Manager Ernest Garcia, Advanced Coating continues to expand its technical capabilities, quality systems, and customer engagement model to meet the evolving needs of aerospace and defense electronics. The focus remains simple: push the limits of what Parylene protection can achieve while maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence.

Advanced Coating

Performance. Protection. No Compromise.

For mission-critical electronics where reliability is paramount and standards are uncompromising, Advanced Coating delivers Parylene solutions engineered for the next generation of aerospace, defense, and high-reliability applications.

www.AdvancedCoating.com

Rancho Cucamonga, California 800-722-1444 | International Programs Supported

Supplier

Advanced Coating

Date

Tue, 03/10/2026 - 09:33

Subtitle

In aerospace, defense, and high-reliability electronics, failure is not an option.

Images

Title

The Military systems and Technology Benchmark for Parylene Coating.

Description

In aerospace, defense, and high-reliability electronics, failure is not an option. The protection of micro-electronics, complex geometries, and sensit...

Multi-layered Capabilities for the Modern Battlefield

tony — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 08:40:54 +0000

Multi-layered Capabilities for the Modern Battlefield tony Tue, 03/10/2026 - 08:40

Battlefield dominance is being redefined by the convergence of AI, manned-unmanned teaming and hybrid power.

These innovations accelerate decision-making, enhance reach and resilience, and determine how swiftly militaries can sense, decide, and act — staying one step ahead of their adversaries.

Beyond individual platforms, with greater emphasis now placed on unmanned systems, land capabilities and resilient supply chains — reflecting the reality of modern, multi-domain operations. Recent conflicts in Europe and the Middle East have underscored a crucial lesson: technological advantage is only valuable if it can be integrated, sustained and adapted under real operational pressure.

Imagine a forward operating base in a chaotic city centre, where every sound counts – engines, radios, footsteps. In such an environment, stealth is not an option; it can be the key to avoiding detection. That’s where hybrid electric drive (HED) vehicles come in.

HED allows troops to switch to silent electric mode, effectively concealing their position when it matters. Even more importantly, it provides deployed forces with dependable exportable power at the point of need. Platforms can sustain command posts, sensors, radars, unmanned vehicles and electronic warfare systems without reliance on exposed, noisy generators. The result is a lighter logistics footprint, longer mission endurance and greater flexibility for commanders operating at the edge. Silent electric running is available when concealment is required, but the real operational value lies in delivering sustained power where it is hardest to provide.

“Export power means mission flexibility. When your platform can directly power command systems, unmanned assets, and energy-hungry payloads like Direct Energy Weapons - without mobile generators - it gives Manned Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) forces a decisive edge.”

said Jensen Chew, product director for electrification and 4x4 vehicles at ST Engineering.

Acoustic and thermal signatures are reduced, allowing low-heat ‘silent watch’ operation. On an 8X8 platform, this equates to roughly 25 km of near-silent movement and up to 24 hours on standby. Fuel use falls by around 30 per cent, easing pressure on already stretched supply chains. Live demonstrations at these events are expected to showcase both off-road performance and power export under simulated threat conditions.

Unmanned systems are pushing operational stand-off even further. The TAURUS is a multi-role Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) that features customisable modularity and mobility superiority. Towable with regenerative fast charging, it can carry supplies, evacuate casualties, mount remote weapons, conduct surveillance or deploy smaller drones as required. Its all-electric drivetrain delivers up to 20 kW of configurable DC or AC power, turning it into a forward energy hub. Equipped with robust autonomous navigation, it is operatable even in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) denied environments. Features include a follow-me mode, waypoint navigation and obstacle avoidance. It can travel at 40 km/h independently or 80 km/h when towed, handling 60 percent gradients and 30 percent side slopes.

Unmanned aerial vehicles are also transforming urban operations, often in ways that do not make the headlines. Platforms such as ARES, a micro unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) delivers real-time imagery to those who need it most, enhancing the ability of troops to react quickly and shortening the decision cycle. That early awareness can be critical. Protection remains paramount, particularly for platforms that require rapid upgrades. ARIELE delivers a pragmatic solution: modular, bespoke, and lightweight Passive Add-On Armour designed for swift integration. The concept is straightforward—enhance survivability without compromising operational requirements.

When it comes to Transparent Armour, compliance with standards such as MIL-STD-810H and STANAG 4569 has become the baseline; most systems now meet these requirements. The real differentiator lies in weight and visibility. CleArmour’s transparent ceramic technology slashes mass—up to 50% lighter than conventional glass armour—while maintaining optical clarity, even post-impact. ARIELE’s own Armour Glass follows the same principle, reducing weight by more than 20% across STANAG Levels 1 to 3. It may not be glamorous, but for mobility and endurance, these gains are mission-critical.

On the ground, what really pulls everything together is MUM-T. Vehicles such as the TERREX s5 are becoming mobile hubs rather than simple transport platforms. At 35 tonnes gross, with space for a two-person crew and 10 troops, it is not small, but still moves quickly on roads and has the range to stay with dispersed units. While the figures - 120 km/h, a range of around 1,000 km, and 60 per cent gradients - may be familiar, the interest lies in how the vehicle is deployed. Hybrid variants add limited silent-move capability and, more importantly, substantial onboard power. This feeds digital systems offering all-round awareness, automated target tracking and ‘see-through’ armour, all tied together through the New Generation Power Processor.

In practice, this allows the vehicle to cue indirect fire or counter-UAS assets before a threat can get close. These technologies give crews the confidence to operate in rapidly evolving threat environments.

Mortars are now receiving the same treatment. The Ground Deployed Advanced Mortar System (GDAMS) is light and platform-agnostic. It can be brought into and out of action quickly, around 15 seconds with a two-person crew, and features digital controls. It supports both 81 mm and 120 mm tubes, with good accuracy out to 9 km. As crew safety of the mortar remains a concern, a blast diffuser noticeably reduces the blast-over-pressure and acoustic footprint.

“Success belongs to forces that integrate seamlessly— platforms that serve as the MUM-T mothership, drones providing persistent ISR, and mortar systems delivering rapid, shoot-and-scoot fires. This integration compresses decision cycles and gives commanders decisive, uncontested control of the battlespace.”

said Tan Pek Tong, Deputy President, Head, International Defence of Land Systems at ST Engineering.

Smart MRO is transforming sustainment by integrating digitalisation, advanced analytics and intelligent automation to maximise fleet availability, reduce ownership costs and improve operational efficiency. Beyond maintenance, remanufacturing and additive manufacturing capabilities are reshaping supply-chain resilience, addressing obsolescence and extending asset service life through localisation. This approach aligns with the visions of several nations, including Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to localise 50 per cent of military spending — a goal reinforced by the new Supply Chain Zone at defence events.

Training neatly closes the loop, with AI-enabled mixed reality (AR, VR and XR) tools now used for MUM-T, vehicle handling and tactical drills. Less obvious perhaps, but these tools are helping multinational forces work together anytime, anywhere – still one of the hardest things to practise outside operations.

For ST Engineering, the takeaway is clear: the competitive edge comes not from isolated platforms, but from the seamless integration of systems, people, and sustainment to ensure mission success. Through smarter sustainment, unmanned systems, and adaptive protection, we’re shaping the future of warfare. With digitisation enhancing sense-and-strike capabilities, we empower forces to outpace threats by moving information and support faster than ever before.

Supplier

ST Engineering

Date

Tue, 03/10/2026 - 08:39

Subtitle

Shaping Tomorrow’s Combat.

Images

Title

Multi-layered Capabilities for the Modern Battlefield

Description

Battlefield dominance is being redefined by the convergence of AI, manned-unmanned teaming and hybrid power.  These innovations accelerate decisi...

POWERING DEFENCE

tony — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:01:17 +0000

POWERING DEFENCE tony Mon, 03/09/2026 - 15:01

Babcock International Group (Babcock), the defence company, has been awarded a contract to provide the British Army with in-service support for its Field Electrical Power Supplies (FEPS) power generators. The contract up to 8 years, worth up to c£36 million will create 20 new jobs across three UK locations.

FEPS are used by the Army to power tactical communications systems, lighting and support facilities, and other mission critical infrastructure when deployed on operations or training exercises. Babcock, as strategic support partner to the British Army, provide maintenance and asset management for the Army’s critical vehicle fleets and equipment. Through this additional contract, Babcock will now be responsible for the complete maintenance, repair and overhaul of FEPS power generators as well as utilising their strategic asset management framework to deliver fleet availability and reliability when needed most.

Babcock will deliver the national contract from three UK sites, which requires engineering and technical expertise, alongside bespoke equipment lifecycle management. The specialist teams, supported by Babcock’s integrated capabilities, will ensure that the British Army’s equipment safeguards operational readiness and rapid deployment capability.

The British Army has some of the most powerful information and communication systems available, relaying complex and timely instructions across the globe and Babcock will play a critical role in ensuring that this permanent need for power is delivered to the frontline.

Kate Robinson, Managing Director of Through Life Equipment Support for Babcock, said: “This contract supporting FEPS enables the British Army to operate and ensure that they have the power they need, when and where they need it.This new agreement strengthens our relationship with our customer and demonstrates Babcock’s integrated approach to complex asset management, powering our Armed Forces on the frontline.

Supplier

Babcock

Date

Mon, 03/09/2026 - 15:00

Images

Title

POWERING DEFENCE

Description

Babcock International Group (Babcock), the defence company, has been awarded a contract to provide the British Army with in-service support for its Fi...

AEI Systems to Showcase VENOM LR at DSA 2026 Following Strong Interest at Enforce Tac

tony — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:20:38 +0000

AEI Systems to Showcase VENOM LR at DSA 2026 Following Strong Interest at Enforce Tac tony Mon, 03/09/2026 - 12:20

AEI Systems, the UK medium-calibre gun specialist and a core subsidiary of the SYS Group, will participate in the Defence Services Asia (DSA) Exhibition and Conference 2026, taking place from 20–23 April in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Following a successful presence at Enforce Tac (23–25 February) where VENOM LR generated significant international interest, AEI Systems will present its low-recoil, adjustable-rate 30x113mm revolver cannon to one of the most important defence exhibitions in the Asia-Pacific region.

DSA serves as a key platform for defence authorities, system integrators and industry leaders across South-East Asia and beyond. The participation of AEI Systems reflects its growing engagement with regional partners and its commitment to delivering advanced, ITAR-free medium-calibre solutions for modern operational requirements.

VENOM LR – Low-Recoil, Adjustable Firepower for Multi-Role and Counter-UAS Operations

At the centre of the presence of AEI Systems will be the 30x113mm VENOM LR. Designed and engineered in the UK, VENOM LR is a revolver cannon developed to meet the evolving demands of land, maritime and unmanned platforms. Recognised for having the ability to fire at one of the highest rates within its class, VENOM LR offers:

An adjustable rate of fire from single shot to 1,300spm
Low-recoil
Low energy consumption
Superior flexibility for platform integration

Its low-recoil characteristics make it particularly well suited for integration on lightweight armoured vehicles, naval vessels and Remote Weapon Systems (RWS), where platform stability and structural integrity are critical.

At DSA 2026, VENOM LR will be presented installed within the UNIROBOTICS TRAKON 30 RWS , delivering a fully stabilised, combat-ready solution optimised for multi-role operations and Counter-UAS (C-UAS) applications.

The VENOM LR and TRAKON 30 configuration offers an effective response to emerging aerial threats, including unmanned aerial systems and asymmetric airborne platforms, whilst maintaining superior ground engagement capability.

Positioned for Regional Adoption

VENOM LR is currently progressing through engagement and evaluation phases aimed at entry into several regional inventories. Its ITAR-free status, ammunition flexibility and adaptable rate-of-fire configuration position it as a compelling solution for nations seeking sovereign capability, operational independence and future-ready firepower.

Leadership Perspective

Simon Angel, Managing Director of AEI Systems, commented: “Following the exceptional level of interest we received at Enforce Tac, DSA represents a timely and important opportunity to further engage with partners across the Asia-Pacific region.

In light of the emerging tensions and evolving security dynamics around the World but, in particular, the Middle East, we are seeing a renewed and urgent focus on the protection of critical national infrastructure against asymmetric aerial threats. VENOM LR has been engineered from the outset to deliver adaptable, high-performance firepower for modern multi-role missions and, as such, it offers a particularly compelling and cost-effective Counter-UAS solution.

When integrated with the TRAKON 30 RWS and paired with an effective radar cueing solution, VENOM LR provides a responsive and scalable defence capability. This configuration enables accurate engagement of aerial threats whilst maintaining the flexibility to perform conventional fire support roles.

We are observing increasing demand from nations seeking advanced, ITAR-free medium-calibre capability that can be deployed rapidly to safeguard strategic facilities and high-value assets. DSA provides an important platform to demonstrate how British engineering, supported by the SYS Group’s integration expertise, delivers a practical, cost-efficient and operationally proven solution for today’s evolving threat environment.”

About AEI Systems

AEI Systems is a UK medium-calibre gun specialist and a core subsidiary of the SYS Group, delivering advanced gun systems and integrated firepower solutions for air, land, sea and unmanned platforms worldwide.

www.aei-systems.com

Supplier

AEI Systems

Date

Mon, 03/09/2026 - 12:17

Subtitle

Images

Title

AEI Systems to Showcase VENOM LR at DSA 2026 Following Strong Interest at Enforce Tac

Description

AEI Systems, the UK  medium-calibre gun specialist and a core subsidiary of the SYS Group, will participate in the Defence Services Asia (DSA) Ex...

HENSOLDT acquires NEDINSCO and expands its European presence

tony — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 10:20:06 +0000

HENSOLDT acquires NEDINSCO and expands its European presence tony Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:20

Acquisition strengthens technological sovereignty, industrial resilience and scaling and innovation capabilities in the international defence market.

Taufkirchen (Germany) / Venlo (The Netherlands), 05.03.2026 – HENSOLDT has signed an agreement to acquire Dutch optronics specialist NEDINSCO, strengthening its technological capabilities in a strategically relevant segment, securing critical supply chains and expanding its industrial presence in Europe. NEDINSCO, founded in 1921, with locations in Venlo and Eindhoven, employs around 140 people and develops and manufactures electro-optical sensor systems, including periscopes, driver vision systems and subsystems for optronic sensor units. The company has many years of expertise in the development of electro-optical sensor systems, as well as image processing and analysis.

The transaction is a targeted strategic step towards scaling production capacities and expanding optronics capabilities in the areas of situational awareness, driver vision systems and sensor subsystems. The transaction is expected to close in mid-2026, subject to regulatory approvals and the works council consultation process of NEDINSCO. It will be financed entirely from existing funds. Upon completion of the transaction, NEDINSCO will become part of HENSOLDT’s Optronics segment.

“The acquisition of NEDINSCO strengthens our sovereign technological capabilities in a strategically important area,” said HENSOLDT CEO Oliver Dörre. “The acquisition improves our ability to scale production, accelerate innovation and reliably supply our customers. It is a targeted strategic step towards further strengthening our position as a leading European provider of sensor solutions.”

The acquisition is based on four clearly defined strategic drivers:

Strengthening engineering and production capacities for major European defence programmes and

creating industrial flexibility for future growth by including the new Dutch sites.
Increasing technological autonomy through greater integration of critical technologies and complementing this with additional electronics expertise in a security-sensitive technology field.
Accelerating innovation cycles through strong rapid prototyping capabilities, thereby significantly speeding up the development and industrialisation of new sensor solutions.
Expanding industrial presence and market access in Europe, particularly in the Netherlands, in close cooperation with our European customers and partners

This acquisition marks a significant milestone for both organizations. HENSOLDT is consistently pursuing its strategy of expanding its own value creation depth, increasing industrial resilience and scaling production capacities in line with rising demand in the defence and security market. By combining complementary strengths, the companies enhance the joint product portfolio, accelerate innovation and enhance customer value.

Arno Bouwmeester, CEO of NEDINSCO stated: “This transaction secures our continued growth and represents a powerful step forward for both our company and our customers. By joining forces, Nedinsco gains scale, stability, enhanced support and global reach needed to accelerate innovation while continuing to deliver the precision, reliability, and close partnerships our customers value.”

About HENSOLDT

HENSOLDT is a leading company in the European defence industry with a global reach. Based in Taufkirchen near Munich, the company develops sensor solutions for defence and security applications. As a system integrator, HENSOLDT offers platform-independent, networked sensors. At the same time, the company is driving forward the development of defence electronics and optronics and investing in new solutions based on software-defined defence. In addition, the company is expanding its range of offers to include new service models and is extending its portfolio of system solutions. In 2024, HENSOLDT achieved a turnover of 2.24 billion euros. Following the acquisition of ESG GmbH, the company employs around 9,000 people. HENSOLDT is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in the MDAX.

www.hensoldt.net

About Nedinsco

Nedinsco (Venlo, the Netherlands) develops and manufactures high-end vision systems for defense and industrial applications. With more than 100 years of experience, Nedinsco provides integrated solutions from design to production, with a strong focus on precision, quality, and innovation.

Supplier

Nedinsco

Date

Thu, 03/05/2026 - 10:17

Images

Title

HENSOLDT acquires NEDINSCO and expands its European presence

Description

Acquisition strengthens technological sovereignty, industrial resilience and scaling and innovation capabilities in the international defence market. ...

Simplifying UAV helicopter operations with Nord-Lock® Washers

tony — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:29:37 +0000

Simplifying UAV helicopter operations with Nord-Lock® Washers tony Wed, 03/04/2026 - 10:29

The Spain-based Alpha Unmanned Systems was searching for dependable military-grade fastening components, it found Nord-Lock.

In the world of tactical unmanned aircraft, simplicity and reliability are essential. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) need to work right out of the box, which requires being easy to operate and maintain.

For Alpha Unmanned Systems, a global leader in UAV helicopters, that means constantly evaluating improvements to their systems, often seeking simple solutions to advance design and streamline operations.

The Madrid-headquartered Alpha manufactures tactical UAVs helicopters. Built for military applications, they’re fuel-powered and specifically developed for marine operations, such as maneuvering from the back of a small moving ship with fully automatic flight capabilities, including take-off and landing.

According to Álvaro Escarpenter, CTO and Founder at Alpha Unmanned Systems, military units, navies, and border forces around the world utilize the company’s UAV helicopters for surveillance, observation, and reconnaissance.

“We have customers in 14 countries – from the Greek Navy, who operate them from different ships in the Aegean, to the Bulgarian border police, who use them in coordination with Frontex (the EU’s agency for border control),” says Escarpenter.

So, when Alpha needed a replacement component to ensure the dependability of its UAV helicopters that could be implemented simply, it looked beyond Spain’s borders and found the Swedish-made Nord-Lock® Washer.

Preventative Design Improvements

A key feature that differentiates the UAVs of Alpha Unmanned Systems from many others is the integration of a 100cc boxer engine into each design. It can run on gasoline and on heavy fuel, which is an important requirement for safer naval operations. More importantly, being fuel-powered gives Alpha’s UAV helicopters an advantage over similarly classed battery-powered platforms.

“If a customer wants to fly one of our helicopters 100 kilometers away on an automated mission to search out targets or to do reconnaissance, then the fact that it’s fuel-powered means they’ve got that range,” explains Escarpenter. “It also enables up to four hours of autonomy and the ability to lift around four kilos, which is quite a lot for its size.

”Fuel-powered helicopter platforms operate at high engine revolution levels. In late 2025, Alpha’s design and manufacturing team, leveraging continuous daily flight evaluations of each UAV helicopter system, identified an opportunity for a preventative design improvement on the exhaust manifold system.

Another aircraft maker might have just added verifying and retorquing specific bolted connections as a critical point in the platform’s pre- and post-flight checklists, but Alpha wanted to do more – address the issue on the manufacturing side but without redesigning anything, especially the engine.

“We really put a lot of care and attention on the engine,” says Pablo Frutos, Head of Manufacturing at Alpha. “we needed to find a long-term, reliable solution, which is what led us to Nord-Lock.”

Military-grade component with no need to retorque

It didn’t take the manufacturing team at Alpha Unmanned Systems long to discover Nord-Lock and its secure-locking washers. Using wedge-locking technology, Nord-Lock® Washers keep bolted joints from loosening with tension rather than friction and prevent unintentional rotation once tightened. What’s more, they’re high-quality made, fitting well within military-grade standards, and have long been a staple in the global defence industry.

By the end of 2025, Alpha’s daily flight operations included UAV helicopters with Nord-Lock® Washers. The company plans to continue running the tests with in-depth maintenance overhauls after 50, 100, and 200 hours of flying. But so far, according to Frutos, everything checks out.

“The results have been pretty positive. We’re seeing that the bolts remain in place and there's no need to retorque,” he says. “And our pre-flight checks have been simplified.”

The benefits of using Nord-Lock’s washer, however, go beyond secure bolted connections. As Frutos explains, it’s not only simplified operations but also taken a potential issue off the table – furthering the dependability of Alpha Unmanned Systems.

“At the end of the day, if the Indonesian Coast Guard – which is a customer of ours – invests in a multimillion-dollar platform to survey the islands and coasts around Indonesia, then they want a system that’s going to respond, that’s reliable, and that is relatively easy to maintain and deploy,” he says. To provide that, Alpha must constantly identify ways to enhance and upgrade its UAV helicopters.

“With Nord-Lock, we’ve gone with what may look like a simple solution," says Frutos. “But it’s all about having a proven, well-designed, well-manufactured military-grade component that just fits into the system very easily.”

Supplier

Nord-Lock Group

Date

Wed, 03/04/2026 - 10:25

Images

Title

Simplifying UAV helicopter operations with Nord-Lock® Washers

Description

The Spain-based Alpha Unmanned Systems was searching for dependable military-grade fastening components, it found Nord-Lock. In the world of tactical ...