Impenetrable "Warrior" and the unsolved secrets of the Ministry of Defense
"Warrior" - Russian military equipment, developed by the Central Research Institute of Precision Engineering, combines modern small arms and effective protection kits.
The development of equipment began in the 2000s by designer Vladimir Lepin. It was based on the Barmitsa kit, but with some improvements.
Combat equipment includes more than 10 subsystems, including:
1. Complex reconnaissance, control and communications "Strelets" and "Strelets-M".
2. Protective set "Permyachka" and "Permyachka-M".
3. Military uniform clothing of a “Warrior” serviceman (goggles, body armor with ceramic plates, splinter overalls, knee and elbow joints, etc.).
4. Life supporting system.
5. Surveillance system (thermal sight, night vision device).
6. Weapons system (Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifle, grenades, ammunition shops, etc.).
7. Special multi-layered 1 protection helmet with ceramic armor plates.
8. Optional equipment.
9. Elements of protection from non-lethal weapons (sound, tear gas, thermal, etc.).
10. Elements of protection against weapons of toxic effects.
11. Water filters.
12. Autonomous heat sources.
13. Sets of energy supplies.
14. Medical control system.
15. First Aid Kit
16. Detector microwave exposure.
Bullet-proof vest, goggles and multilayered helmet of 1-th protection class:
Body armor 6B43 adopted for use in 2010 year. In the maximum configuration 6B43 protects from bullets chest, back and side projection, as well as the groin and shoulders from shrapnel. A bullet fired from a SVD rifle, its ceramic-composite armor panel will keep 10 meters away.
In the event that the armor panel is broken through both inside and outside, the body armor has another additional protection - screens that are made of ballistic fabric - rusar. Even foreign experts have started talking about the uniqueness of this fabric, because, despite the fact that Rusara has a 27 surface density that is less than the Kevlar panel, it can have 12% more ballistic resistance.
Also, the body armor has a climate-depreciation support, it allows the soldier to avoid injuries associated with contusion. Its advantage is that when it strikes, it softens and distributes the force of impact throughout the body.
Technical characteristics of the armor 6B43 for the "Warrior":
Bulk weight in the extended configuration, kg, - to 15.
The area of the splinterproof protection (splinterproof module), dm2, - 63,8-72,5, including:
- apron splinterproof removable 5-5,3 dm2;
- Shoulder pads Xench-13,8 dmXnumx.
Area gain unified bulletproof armor panels, dm2, - 26,5-29,9, including:
- side bulletproof armored panels: 6-7 dm2;
- bulletproof apron armor panel: 3-3,5 dm2;
- dorsal lower bulletproof armor panel: 2,5-3 dm2.
Armored panel (BP) - 5 protection class.
Armored panel (BP) - 6 protection class.
The fragmentation resistance of the body armor, V50%, is at least 550 m / s.
Protection area of the body armor - at least 45 square. dm, weight - no more than 3,2 kg.
For the "Warrior" was developed and a new multi-layered helmet. Its main advantage was the low mass - only 1300 grams. At the same time, in terms of its characteristics, it is no worse than foreign “heavy” models: in the same way, the helmet protects against fragments and is able to withstand a hit of a 9-mm pistol bullet from five meters away.
He is recognized as the lightest and most durable modern combined-arms helmet in Russia and around the world.
When creating this helmet, experts preferred the structure of three layers: a composite casing on the outside, discrete-fabric material, which is now used as an alternative to past-end steel. Composite material is also used on the inside. The convenience of its use lies in the fact that the shock wave as it dissipates and leads to an elastic deformation of the material. The shell flexes to acceptable values, but remains intact.
As a result, the armored helmet provides fragmentation protection with a probability of 50%, which fly at a decent speed in 630 m / s.
Experiments using the Makarov pistol and the SVD:
Watch with 9: 20.
Both the body armor and the helmet withstood the direct hit from close range with ease.
In addition to body armor and helmet, a set of aramid fibers is included in the “Warrior” kit. Overalls manufactured, provides protection from small fragments, and is also able to withstand contact with an open flame, however, for quite a limited time (10 seconds). In addition, the jumpsuit reduces the likelihood of detecting a fighter with night vision devices and thermal imagers.
This interesting feature of the jumpsuit is achieved due to the fact that the device of the suit itself does not transmit heat and blocks radiation in the ultraviolet and infrared spectra, which makes the fighter invisible in a thermal sight.
The modularity allows you to attach any pockets to the discharge vest. A "breathable" design of the "Warrior" allows you to continuously wear it at least 48 hours.
The total weight of the standard version of the overalls and body armor 5-th class of protection - about 10 kilograms, the maximum - with a helmet, assault body armor 6-th class of protection, armor for the shoulders and hips - about 20 kg.
The elements of clothing set "Warrior" provides "Velcro" for chevrons and epaulettes. Therefore, removing any identifying marks is a matter of one minute.
Goggles provide protection from shrapnel, shock and short-term exposure to open flame.
The first generation of protective glasses produced by JSC "Breastplate" has anti-shatter resistance V50% ≥ 240 m / s.
Mass points - no more than 160 g.
Protection area - at least 1,3 square. dm
Features:
- significantly increased anti-splitting resistance - V50% ≥ 350 ÷ 380 m / s (not less than 10 hits with a steel ball with a diameter of 6,35 mm);
- glasses lens with thickness up to 6,5 mm is made of optically pure polycarbonate and has the first optical class according to GOST 12.4.230.1-2007 (EN 166), which provides the possibility of wearing glasses without time limit and an excellent panoramic view without distortion;
- the lens has a high shockproof survivability;
- high-strength anti-scratch and anti-fog coating applied to the lens;
- open-cell polyurethane foam (material of the obturator) has a high mechanical strength, allows you to comfortably adapt glasses to any type of face, protects the skin and eyes from dust, collects moisture from the face, provides ventilation under the glasses;
- weight of glasses (without transportation pouch) - no more than 200 g.
Safety glasses capable of withstanding hit of shards of size 6 mm flying at speeds of 350 m / s.
Opinion of foreign experts
The DuPont test center in Geneva concluded that it was Russian 6B47, which is included in the “Warrior” equipment, the best defender of the soldier on the battlefield.
The main advantage is definitely weight. And although 6B47 has a slightly smaller area of protection than Sentri, but it is impressively different from the Russian predecessor 6Б7-1М, because the difference in area affects the visibility convenience.
American helmet comes with a system for mounting night vision devices. But it is difficult to call an advantage, as the installation of such devices and tactical flashlights is possible on the helmet of the “Warrior”.
Thread "Rusar"
In a scientific article, where the Americans described the results of a study of the properties of the Rusar thread, it was stated that this thread surpasses the famous Zailon in dynamic strength, not to mention Kevlar. The authors wonder how a soft textile armor panel made of aramid yarn with a merchandise with a surface density of 27 percent lower than that of a Kevlar panel can have a ballistic resistance of 12 percent higher. Such data was obtained in December 2007 year in the testing laboratory of Wichita, Kansas, USA.
In September and December, 2008 were repeated tests of armor panels of merchant yarns and fabrics from these threads of other lots. The stability of the test results remained at the same high level for the whole range of imitators of fragments and bullets.
However, on the outstanding properties of Rusara in America, we learned before the above studies were conducted. Russian ballistic fabrics made from Rusar fibers were repeatedly tested in other American, as well as in British and German laboratories, where they showed record results compared to the best foreign analogues.
Perhaps that is why the company Alkemi Technology, which conducts marketing research in the foreign ballistic market, has assigned the brand AuTx (Autex) to ballistic articles made of merchants. Aurum (Au) in Latin means gold.
Naturally, Western manufacturers of aramid fabrics immediately defended the reputation of their product. In 2006, the manufacturer of Kevlar, DuPont, and in 2008, the manufacturer of Twaron, Teijin Aramid, was persistently trying to convince ballistics specialists of instability and adverse side effects of Rusar. However, scientists from the University of Leeds (United Kingdom) came to a different conclusion as a result of research: the thread in the 2-2,5 merchandise is more stable than Twaron and Kevlar.
Eventually
Compared to the previous set, all elements have been redesigned to achieve unification, functionality and weight reduction.
Secondly, the Sagittarius control system appeared, providing unprecedented communication capabilities both within the detachment and the combat unit with the center. And this is the technology of network-centric warfare.
Third, the expansion of sighting equipment: instead of night vision goggles, we have here a day-night sighting system, as well as several types of thermal sights and a television sight.
Specially under the "Warrior" is developed and small arms of new generations. Already developed thermal system aiming, as well as a special video module that allows you to fire from around the corner or because of a suitable shelter. At the same time, the transfer of information from the sight of the weapon to the screen of the soldier eye cup occurs wirelessly.
Fourth, rechargeable batteries to power all this stuff.
What awaits us next?
"Warrior-2"
First, the recognition system "friend or foe" for both combat vehicles and soldiers.
Secondly, by this time the production of cardiovisors will be fully established. This device allows real-time recording of ECG, heart rate, respiratory movements, and temperature. Based on these data, the commander may have an idea of the physical and emotional state of his soldiers.
By the way, such a system is already being tested on the “Warrior-1” (medical module).
Thirdly, the time of aramid fabrics ends and they are replaced by more practical and durable high molecular weight polyethylene.
"Warrior-3"
We’ll have to wait for this equipment update no earlier than 2025-2030, but it’s very promising:
- Helmet with anti-splinter transparent visor, on the inside of which displays information about the fight and target designation. The fact that today the soldier is forced to look at the receiver, being distracted, in the “Warrior-3” will be available right before your eyes.
- Camouflage will change color, and the armor will get an integrated power supply.
- The total weight will drop by several kilograms.
- Well, we expect the Russian exoskeleton.
The development of equipment began in the 2000s by designer Vladimir Lepin. It was based on the Barmitsa kit, but with some improvements.
Combat equipment includes more than 10 subsystems, including:
1. Complex reconnaissance, control and communications "Strelets" and "Strelets-M".
2. Protective set "Permyachka" and "Permyachka-M".
3. Military uniform clothing of a “Warrior” serviceman (goggles, body armor with ceramic plates, splinter overalls, knee and elbow joints, etc.).
4. Life supporting system.
5. Surveillance system (thermal sight, night vision device).
6. Weapons system (Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifle, grenades, ammunition shops, etc.).
7. Special multi-layered 1 protection helmet with ceramic armor plates.
8. Optional equipment.
9. Elements of protection from non-lethal weapons (sound, tear gas, thermal, etc.).
10. Elements of protection against weapons of toxic effects.
11. Water filters.
12. Autonomous heat sources.
13. Sets of energy supplies.
14. Medical control system.
15. First Aid Kit
16. Detector microwave exposure.
Bullet-proof vest, goggles and multilayered helmet of 1-th protection class:
Body armor 6B43 adopted for use in 2010 year. In the maximum configuration 6B43 protects from bullets chest, back and side projection, as well as the groin and shoulders from shrapnel. A bullet fired from a SVD rifle, its ceramic-composite armor panel will keep 10 meters away.
In the event that the armor panel is broken through both inside and outside, the body armor has another additional protection - screens that are made of ballistic fabric - rusar. Even foreign experts have started talking about the uniqueness of this fabric, because, despite the fact that Rusara has a 27 surface density that is less than the Kevlar panel, it can have 12% more ballistic resistance.
Also, the body armor has a climate-depreciation support, it allows the soldier to avoid injuries associated with contusion. Its advantage is that when it strikes, it softens and distributes the force of impact throughout the body.
Technical characteristics of the armor 6B43 for the "Warrior":
Bulk weight in the extended configuration, kg, - to 15.
The area of the splinterproof protection (splinterproof module), dm2, - 63,8-72,5, including:
- apron splinterproof removable 5-5,3 dm2;
- Shoulder pads Xench-13,8 dmXnumx.
Area gain unified bulletproof armor panels, dm2, - 26,5-29,9, including:
- side bulletproof armored panels: 6-7 dm2;
- bulletproof apron armor panel: 3-3,5 dm2;
- dorsal lower bulletproof armor panel: 2,5-3 dm2.
Armored panel (BP) - 5 protection class.
Armored panel (BP) - 6 protection class.
The fragmentation resistance of the body armor, V50%, is at least 550 m / s.
Protection area of the body armor - at least 45 square. dm, weight - no more than 3,2 kg.
For the "Warrior" was developed and a new multi-layered helmet. Its main advantage was the low mass - only 1300 grams. At the same time, in terms of its characteristics, it is no worse than foreign “heavy” models: in the same way, the helmet protects against fragments and is able to withstand a hit of a 9-mm pistol bullet from five meters away.
He is recognized as the lightest and most durable modern combined-arms helmet in Russia and around the world.
When creating this helmet, experts preferred the structure of three layers: a composite casing on the outside, discrete-fabric material, which is now used as an alternative to past-end steel. Composite material is also used on the inside. The convenience of its use lies in the fact that the shock wave as it dissipates and leads to an elastic deformation of the material. The shell flexes to acceptable values, but remains intact.
As a result, the armored helmet provides fragmentation protection with a probability of 50%, which fly at a decent speed in 630 m / s.
Experiments using the Makarov pistol and the SVD:
Watch with 9: 20.
Both the body armor and the helmet withstood the direct hit from close range with ease.
In addition to body armor and helmet, a set of aramid fibers is included in the “Warrior” kit. Overalls manufactured, provides protection from small fragments, and is also able to withstand contact with an open flame, however, for quite a limited time (10 seconds). In addition, the jumpsuit reduces the likelihood of detecting a fighter with night vision devices and thermal imagers.
This interesting feature of the jumpsuit is achieved due to the fact that the device of the suit itself does not transmit heat and blocks radiation in the ultraviolet and infrared spectra, which makes the fighter invisible in a thermal sight.
The modularity allows you to attach any pockets to the discharge vest. A "breathable" design of the "Warrior" allows you to continuously wear it at least 48 hours.
The total weight of the standard version of the overalls and body armor 5-th class of protection - about 10 kilograms, the maximum - with a helmet, assault body armor 6-th class of protection, armor for the shoulders and hips - about 20 kg.
The elements of clothing set "Warrior" provides "Velcro" for chevrons and epaulettes. Therefore, removing any identifying marks is a matter of one minute.
Goggles provide protection from shrapnel, shock and short-term exposure to open flame.
The first generation of protective glasses produced by JSC "Breastplate" has anti-shatter resistance V50% ≥ 240 m / s.
Mass points - no more than 160 g.
Protection area - at least 1,3 square. dm
Features:
- significantly increased anti-splitting resistance - V50% ≥ 350 ÷ 380 m / s (not less than 10 hits with a steel ball with a diameter of 6,35 mm);
- glasses lens with thickness up to 6,5 mm is made of optically pure polycarbonate and has the first optical class according to GOST 12.4.230.1-2007 (EN 166), which provides the possibility of wearing glasses without time limit and an excellent panoramic view without distortion;
- the lens has a high shockproof survivability;
- high-strength anti-scratch and anti-fog coating applied to the lens;
- open-cell polyurethane foam (material of the obturator) has a high mechanical strength, allows you to comfortably adapt glasses to any type of face, protects the skin and eyes from dust, collects moisture from the face, provides ventilation under the glasses;
- weight of glasses (without transportation pouch) - no more than 200 g.
Safety glasses capable of withstanding hit of shards of size 6 mm flying at speeds of 350 m / s.
Opinion of foreign experts
The DuPont test center in Geneva concluded that it was Russian 6B47, which is included in the “Warrior” equipment, the best defender of the soldier on the battlefield.
The main advantage is definitely weight. And although 6B47 has a slightly smaller area of protection than Sentri, but it is impressively different from the Russian predecessor 6Б7-1М, because the difference in area affects the visibility convenience.
American helmet comes with a system for mounting night vision devices. But it is difficult to call an advantage, as the installation of such devices and tactical flashlights is possible on the helmet of the “Warrior”.
Thread "Rusar"
In a scientific article, where the Americans described the results of a study of the properties of the Rusar thread, it was stated that this thread surpasses the famous Zailon in dynamic strength, not to mention Kevlar. The authors wonder how a soft textile armor panel made of aramid yarn with a merchandise with a surface density of 27 percent lower than that of a Kevlar panel can have a ballistic resistance of 12 percent higher. Such data was obtained in December 2007 year in the testing laboratory of Wichita, Kansas, USA.
In September and December, 2008 were repeated tests of armor panels of merchant yarns and fabrics from these threads of other lots. The stability of the test results remained at the same high level for the whole range of imitators of fragments and bullets.
However, on the outstanding properties of Rusara in America, we learned before the above studies were conducted. Russian ballistic fabrics made from Rusar fibers were repeatedly tested in other American, as well as in British and German laboratories, where they showed record results compared to the best foreign analogues.
Perhaps that is why the company Alkemi Technology, which conducts marketing research in the foreign ballistic market, has assigned the brand AuTx (Autex) to ballistic articles made of merchants. Aurum (Au) in Latin means gold.
Naturally, Western manufacturers of aramid fabrics immediately defended the reputation of their product. In 2006, the manufacturer of Kevlar, DuPont, and in 2008, the manufacturer of Twaron, Teijin Aramid, was persistently trying to convince ballistics specialists of instability and adverse side effects of Rusar. However, scientists from the University of Leeds (United Kingdom) came to a different conclusion as a result of research: the thread in the 2-2,5 merchandise is more stable than Twaron and Kevlar.
Eventually
Compared to the previous set, all elements have been redesigned to achieve unification, functionality and weight reduction.
Secondly, the Sagittarius control system appeared, providing unprecedented communication capabilities both within the detachment and the combat unit with the center. And this is the technology of network-centric warfare.
Third, the expansion of sighting equipment: instead of night vision goggles, we have here a day-night sighting system, as well as several types of thermal sights and a television sight.
Specially under the "Warrior" is developed and small arms of new generations. Already developed thermal system aiming, as well as a special video module that allows you to fire from around the corner or because of a suitable shelter. At the same time, the transfer of information from the sight of the weapon to the screen of the soldier eye cup occurs wirelessly.
Fourth, rechargeable batteries to power all this stuff.
What awaits us next?
"Warrior-2"
First, the recognition system "friend or foe" for both combat vehicles and soldiers.
Secondly, by this time the production of cardiovisors will be fully established. This device allows real-time recording of ECG, heart rate, respiratory movements, and temperature. Based on these data, the commander may have an idea of the physical and emotional state of his soldiers.
By the way, such a system is already being tested on the “Warrior-1” (medical module).
Thirdly, the time of aramid fabrics ends and they are replaced by more practical and durable high molecular weight polyethylene.
"Warrior-3"
We’ll have to wait for this equipment update no earlier than 2025-2030, but it’s very promising:
- Helmet with anti-splinter transparent visor, on the inside of which displays information about the fight and target designation. The fact that today the soldier is forced to look at the receiver, being distracted, in the “Warrior-3” will be available right before your eyes.
- Camouflage will change color, and the armor will get an integrated power supply.
- The total weight will drop by several kilograms.
- Well, we expect the Russian exoskeleton.
Information