Overview of Security Systems for Military Personnel and Military Equipment (Part 2)
Body protection
Modern body armor consists mainly of woven materials into which protective plates are usually inserted as an additional reinforcement. While this combination is able to protect the wearer even from NATO 7,62 mm x 51mm rifle bullets, the woven material is currently used to stop 9 mm bullets fired from a pistol.
The main tasks of ballistic protection are the absorption and dissipation of ballistic impact energy. For this reason, bulletproof vests usually consist of several layers. Their woven or composite layers are made from strands of high tenacity fibers. When hit by a bullet, the material absorbs kinetic energy - a pistol bullet travels at 400 m/s - by stretching the fibers and other stiff fibers that spread the load over a large area of the material. This slows down the movement of the bullet and ultimately prevents it from penetrating the body.
Body armor, designed specifically to repel rifle fire, should be tougher as these bullets fly at a speed of approximately 800 m / s. Therefore, in addition to layers of fibers, durable materials such as ceramic or steel plates must be inserted. The protective plates absorb and dissipate more kinetic energy, and the bullet itself also becomes dull.
A big problem for high strength fibers is their sensitivity to environmental factors such as high temperatures, high humidity or sweat. According to experts, this can speed up their natural aging process and may ultimately leave them vulnerable to decay. Therefore, the special protective layers of body armor must themselves be protected from such environmental influences in order to ensure a long service life.
Although no one doubts that a body worn by a soldier by a soldier can reduce mortality and the number of injuries inflicted by small arms. weapons or explosions on mines, but in itself it can be heavy, bulky and uncomfortable to wear. These three factors have motivated researchers around the world to develop body armor that is more effective than ever in providing protection, while at the same time not hindering the wearer's movements. An important step was taken in July 2012, when the US military tested underwear designed specifically for men and women. Until now, women and men have worn the same protection, which was created from the very beginning for military men.
ArmorWorks protective underwear provides excellent freedom of movement with optimal anti-explosion protection against IEDs. Tight athletic design offers maximum comfort
Scientists are studying substances known as non-Newtonian liquids (viscous-plastic liquids) in order to create effective forms of stuffing material for lightweight and flexible protection elements. Unlike water, non-Newtonian liquids change their characteristics when an external influence is applied to them, for example, they thicken with vigorous stirring.
Along with adapting bodyguards to the physical characteristics of men and women, another important aspect of improving comfort is to reduce the weight of future models of bodyguards. The answer can be found in the application of so-called non-Newtonian or viscoplastic fluids. Unlike Newtonian fluids such as water, non-Newtonian fluids have the important property of changing their properties when pressure is applied to them. Currently, most of the body protection models use a combination of Kevlar and metal or ceramic plates. As a torso protector, Kevlar fabric will prevent the bullet from penetrating but will not dampen its kinetic energy. That is, it must be stopped behind the Kevlar cloth. Plates can do this, but they increase the mass of body protection. However, progress in non-Newtonian fluids is advancing. Singapore-based Softshell has developed a material known as ID Flex, which is potentially the "active ingredient" in promising body protection products for the military and security forces, but could be used in sporting goods and as part of protective cases for consumer electronics such as mobile phones.
BAE Systems and D3O Impact Protection, which mainly produces sports goods, also expect to sell products for military and civilian consumers.
Another solution to the problem of overweight underbody protection can be found in the common house spider. The thread that spiders spin to create their web has fascinated scientists for a long time. Anyone who has cleaned the corners of dusty rooms from cobwebs could attest to the fact that these cobwebs are made of a material that looks thin, but is nevertheless strong and elastic. At the Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Research in Germany, work is underway to study what makes the thread of spiders so strong. Essentially, the spiders produce webs that are estimated to be three times more flexible than Kevlar and five times stronger than steel. However, developing an artificial web is far from easy. Obstacles here include deciphering the DNA of the web strand and developing ways to mass-produce the protein that makes up this strand.
For weight-critical wear protection applications, Ceradyne recommends hot-pressed boron carbide and silicon carbide, which have high mass efficiency (the ratio of armor surface density to total armor area) and are suitable for high volume production. Composites are vertically integrated with hot-pressed boron carbide and silicon carbide ceramics to create tough, multi-hit protection. To ensure the highest performance advanced ceramic materials for the lightest mass solutions, Ceradyne uses its own firing range to test body armor materials and designs against a wide range of threats, down to 7,62mm AP bullets. The ceramic face of lightweight wearable life splits the bullet on impact. Ceramic performance is enhanced by a proprietary backing layer that provides structural support and absorbs residual energy. High hardness and strength combined with low density give ceramics unique qualities as a key component of advanced protection systems.
Composites and Defense Systems, Morgan's Advanced Materials division, recently received two contracts from the Canadian government to develop body armor that will focus on a lightweight, low-profile design with improved personal protection plate performance. The new bulletproof vest will meet the requirements for protection against various threats, including multi-hit requirements. These two contracts run until March 2016 with optional production extended through March 2021.
Morgan's defense development program is exactly in line with the goals set by Canada's so-called First Defense Strategy, which guarantees a greater proportion of local content based on the capabilities of Canadian industry. The recent development contract is an extension of the company's impressive portfolio, which supplies plates not only to the British Ministry of Defense, but also to the US Army and special forces.
“We are pleased with the implementation of these two prestigious contracts, which underline our excellent reputation in the industry,” said Duncan Eldridge, president of Morgan Advanced Materials. “The new plates demonstrate the state’s commitment to developing protection for the soldiers, and we understand that these new armor plates will play an important role in this.”
Zebra Sun has manufactured for leading body protection companies in Europe and the USA and has exported over 350000 helmets, as well as a full range of wearable protection products worldwide. The company's advantage lies in the development and production of efficient manufacturing processes leading to high-quality products.
Helmet Dyneema HD80 Helmet Shell. PLASTAZOTE HD80 is a material with relatively high compressive strength 0,60 MPa. It absorbs energy due to elastic and inelastic deformation. Although it will lose a certain ability to absorb energy after an impact, this material will remain intact and provide some protection against subsequent hits.
Specialist Ariel Mallu, a member of a sniper team in the 101st Airborne Division, is testing his third-generation Improved Outer Tactical Vest prototype for the first time. These prototypes, with a shorter torso length and other enhancements, are designed specifically for the female military. They were tested for several weeks at Fort Campbell. The US Army uses Solpolyaramid to reduce weight and increase the level of protection
Armor for cars
AmSafe Bridport, with its TARIAN RPG protection system, recently received a contract from the British Ministry of Defense for advanced protection systems for its vehicles. The contract includes the delivery of several hundred TARIAN RPG Armor System kits for several types of vehicles that are currently in operation in Afghanistan. The £10,6 million contract was completed by the end of 2013. Compared to traditional grating screens, TARIAN provides improved protection and because these kits are significantly lighter, the company says this will allow machines to operate more efficiently. Starting in May 2009, the TARIAN system was installed on vehicles in Afghanistan, and from April 2011, along with QUICKSHIELD repair kits, it began to be installed to replace damaged lattice armor.
Ceradyne supplies DEFENDER vehicle armor systems, which include the latest products that increase the levels of protection for wheeled combat and logistics vehicles. Ceradyne is working closely with original system vendors to provide tailored composite armor solutions for light combat vehicles that allow designers to get the most out of these vehicles' limited payload capacity and maximize occupant and driver survivability.
General Dynamics uses a modular reservation system for the Specialist Vehicle (SV) family of the British Army that meets the most stringent mine action requirements of STANAG
The modular booking and explosion protection system RAMTECH2 from Ceradyne uses a variety of modern lightweight materials for direct use on wheeled tactical vehicles. RAMTECH2 materials meet or exceed the requirements for protection levels defined in the Long Term Armor Strategy (LTAS) of the American Army and NATO STANAG 4569.
IBD Deisenroth Engineering has developed the Evolution Survivability Concept to protect medium platforms and MBTs from serious threats. This concept uses the latest nanotechnology integrated into the IBD PROTech product family, and it has already been applied in several modernization projects of the main combat tanks.
Using the latest modular composite technology, Rheinmetall develops system solutions to protect ground systems from ballistic threats, landmines and IEDs. Rheinmetall Defense provides modular, OE-independent designs ranging from modernization programs and solutions to address urgent operational needs to completely new designs. One of the biggest challenges for today's military is to equip vehicles, helicopters and ships with the maximum possible protection while minimizing the amount of additional protection. The VERHA-Land (Versatile Rheinmetall Armor) system is made from a variety of combat tested materials such as custom coated aramid, high performance polyethylene and fiberglass. Against high-level threats, these materials can be combined with different types of ballistic ceramics for better protection and optimal mobility.
Protection of armored vehicles is an increase in the level of security, and for the crew, even a matter of life and death. To enhance protection against threats of any type, RUAG has developed various effective, modular and easy-to-install systems that have all been tested in combat conditions.
Border protection systems from RUAG are highly efficient and easy to install. The size and shape of the protection modules are adapted to the machines and requirements. According to RUAG, modular protection does not impair mobility.
RUAG, as a machine manufacturer with a security division, knows how the machine moves and therefore finds the most sensible solutions that do not add excessive mass, which is a big problem on a modern battlefield.
RUAG supplies SidePRO vehicle protection systems, which include the latest protection products for wheeled and tracked combat and logistics vehicles. These security solutions use a variety of advanced security materials to provide system solutions that meet the needs of the soldier and counter common threats on the battlefield. These advanced state-of-the-art systems are modular and adaptable to local threats; they allow you to quickly and effectively adjust to the levels of armor protection and increased survivability.
SidePRO-ATR is a high-tech, fully integrated, modular passive protection system for medium BTR and MBT systems, which use various lightweight materials for direct use on these machines.
In combat shooting, RUAG demonstrated the multi-shock capabilities of the SidePRO-ATR defense system, which was fired at RPG-7ВM grenades. All four grenades were stopped, confirming the ability of the SidePRO-ATR fully passive defense system to withstand kinetic and high-explosive shells, attack cores and RPGs.
During the same tests, RUAG demonstrated the capabilities of the SidePRO-KE/IED when hit by standard 14,5x114 B32 armor-piercing incendiary bullets (simulating an RPG attack) and detonation artillery projectile (simulation of a roadside bomb or IED explosion). The SidePRO-KE/IED stopped all bullets, demonstrating its multi-hit capabilities. The damage after the artillery IED explosion was very small, the base layer was not penetrated, all multiple fragments were stopped by the SidePRO-KE/IED system, thus confirming its excellent protective qualities.
Both SidePRO-ATR and SidePRO-KE / IED systems with their excellent multi-impact capabilities, protecting vehicles from the effects of multiple projectiles, explosions and debris, are the perfect solution in today's theater. They add a very small mass, while providing excellent protection with minimal reduction in maneuverability and power reserve.
The RUP SidePRO LASSO system uses new materials and methods of attachment to the vehicle. Fixing the grid elements at one point (and not at two as in the previous version) allows you to provide constant access to all original components of the machine, for example, winch and towing bar
At DSEi 2013, RUAG Defense showcased the latest enhancements to its SidePRO-LASSO protection system. It was created in close cooperation with the operating units, as a result of which the designers achieved a weight reduction of up to 30% and an increase in the protected area of the vehicle. The SidePRO-LASSO system has been saving soldiers' lives since 2007. This mesh protection system can be installed on any armored vehicle to increase the level of protection against RPGs - the main threat that the military currently faces in today's asymmetric conflicts. It has been used by a number of international contingents in peacekeeping operations around the world.
The engineers of the Swiss company RUAG, thanks to close ties with the operating units and their combat experience, finalized and improved the SidePRO-LASSO system. Improvements have been made to both the material and the method of attaching the SidePRO-LASSO to the machine. Attaching the mesh to one rather than two points provides more flexibility as it keeps all the original parts of the machine, such as the winch or tow bar, at all times accessible. Previously, the user had to choose between access to all these elements or protection, but now he can have both at the same time, which thus increases the total protected area of \uXNUMXb\uXNUMXbthe machine.
Weight is the most important factor when choosing a protection system. The protection system should not impose unnecessary restrictions on the machine and somehow degrade the previous performance. The weight of SidePRO-LASSO has been reduced by replacing the previous method of attaching the system to the machine with a more technologically advanced one. Currently, instead of two heavy steel brackets, one aluminum one is used. This not only increases the operational flexibility of the system, as mentioned above, but reduces the total weight to 12 kg/m2, i.e. by about 30%.
In addition to working on the SidePRO-LASSO, RUAG has experience in protection solutions for the roof, sides and bottom of vehicles. As a developer and supplier of materials, RUAG uses its extensive experience to create customized solutions to meet the specific requirements of each customer.
Saab's new Soft Armor system was shown at DSEi 2013. The Soft Armor system offers protection against ballistic threats up to armor-piercing bullets of caliber 7,62 mm NATO standard (STANAG Level III). Because the system is modular, it can be installed on existing structures or machines that require additional protection. Saab's Soft Armor system is a modular concept designed for increased survivability and can be installed on any pre-mission structure or even existing structures in the theater. Unique ceramic material protects against ballistic attacks. Soft Armor is a patented ballistic protection technology that keeps people safe in dangerous outdoor environments. Soft Armor also protects valuable weapons and objects. Soft Armor protects against small arms ammunition, including armor-piercing ones. The system has a lower overall cost compared to ceramic and composite protection, high operational flexibility, multi-impact properties, and it can also be reused.
Marshall Land Systems has partnered with Israel's Plasan to develop UltraFLEXFENCE, a scalable, modular protection system that can be installed on a variety of vehicles. This kit is being deployed as part of the British Ministry of Defense requirement for an RPG protection system, which provides for the installation of UltraFLEXFENCE on British vehicles operating in Afghanistan. BAE Systems developed the L-ROD RPG protection system based on the DARPA (US Defense Advanced Research and Development Administration) initiative, which provides for the development of an RPG protection kit that could be installed on AM General HMMWV and MRAP category vehicles. As a result, aluminum alloy lattice screens were created that are installed around the vehicle. Guards in the form of lattice screens offer good protection against the threat of RPGs, although many kits are constructed from steel, which can increase weight. To reduce weight, BAE Systems uses more aluminum than steel. Qinetiq's LAST armor can adapt to specific threats, including small arms fire, armor-piercing heavy machine gun bullets, 30mm automatic cannons, and improvised explosive devices.
Q-Net protection kits for tactical vehicles can be supplied to the troops, where the crews themselves can easily install them
The Q-Net protection system from Qinetiq uses a mesh to protect against RPGs of various tactical and lightly armored vehicles. Its relatively light weight and low cost provide protection against RPGs from all angles, including attacks from above. ArmorWorks supplies high-tech armor protection, which is installed not only on several American vehicles, but also on the vehicles of the armies of many countries around the world. ArmorWorks is not a materials manufacturer, but a designer and manufacturer of military armor and specializes in defense system technology. ArmorWorks has manufactured over 300 ceramic and composite armor components for a variety of personnel, aircraft and vehicle protection applications.
TNO has developed a special testing method for assessing the ballistic characteristics of fragmentation pads. Although there are no prescribed international standards, TNO can accurately and consistently determine the reduction in the fragment angle as a result of the use of fragmentation pads. Below, shelling test plates. Left plate without splinter podboy, right - with splinter lining
Perspective protection
According to experts, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are an ideal material for advanced body armor due to their unique combination of extremely high elastic modulus and high yield strength. The problem with high-quality fibers is their sensitivity to external influences, such as high temperatures. CNTs (hollow cylinders of carbon one atom thick) can have very high hardness. When they are introduced, for example, into a tile of a composite material with a polymer matrix, they are very likely to deform and destroy the projectile. Due to their unique combination of high modulus of elasticity and high fracture strain, they could absorb a huge amount of energy through elasticity. These properties can cause the bullet to bounce or change direction, which would provide protection from blunt trauma while improving multi-hit performance.
Such nanofiber tubes also have characteristics that allow them to be woven into fabric or incorporated into composite materials. As woven or non-woven fabrics or composite fibers, carbon nanotubes could achieve excellent ballistic performance. Incorporated into current fibers, they could improve their ballistic performance by increasing strength, stiffness, and toughness. For example, they can be incorporated into polymer matrix composite, steel, or ceramic inserts to improve hardness, stiffness, and erosion resistance.
IBD Deisenroth Engineering has discovered in its research that some natural fibers with nanometric filaments (thin fibers) have excellent dynamic properties, surpassing those of other modern fibers, even aramid and polyethylene. Laminates made with these natural fibers could be used to create high-strength structural elements for vehicles and aircraft with good protective performance, lighter weight and lower cost. IBD research has shown that due to its microscopic structure, some natural nanofibers have outstanding energy absorption characteristics.
The Laboratory for Defense Science and Technology (DSTL) and Kennametal Manufacturing jointly fund a center for the development of protective materials worth 2 million pounds. It will be the largest in Europe and will include 50 employees. It will develop full-size ceramic armor components to protect people and machines, large enough to carry out full impact tests.
DSTL is already working with Tata Steel in Port Talbote on the development of advanced steel armor and the lab will soon become the British center for modern military booking technologies.
Tata Steel in Europe supplies several specialized solutions that address today's defense and security challenges, ranging from products that provide excellent protection against mine attacks to high-tech components for military equipment. The range of materials, products and services from Tata Steel is quite extensive: steel plates and sections, armored steel, anti-blast structures, perimeter security, vehicle barriers, as well as technical advice and solutions.
Improving development and manufacturing in the UK will also help reduce dependence on imports of ceramic armor and make it more accessible when developing any prospective machines and wearable protection.
Armor protection is far from a static science, it is constantly evolving. The old adage that war speeds up scientific development has undoubtedly been confirmed in recent years. The development of protection systems, especially the protection of people and vehicles, went on with giant strides. It is obvious that this movement will maintain its pace even after NATO withdraws from Afghanistan in 2014-2015. There is a danger, however, that military establishments around the world will be tempted to cut budgets for research and development of defense systems, as the withdrawal from this troubled country is completed. Another danger that should never be discounted is that levels of protection equivalent to what is available today will be required in future conflicts.
Materials used:
www.monch.com
www.baesystems.com
www.saabgroup.com
www.ruag.com
www.polaris.com
www.dyneema.com
www.tencate.com
www.osg.co.il
Modern body armor consists mainly of woven materials into which protective plates are usually inserted as an additional reinforcement. While this combination is able to protect the wearer even from NATO 7,62 mm x 51mm rifle bullets, the woven material is currently used to stop 9 mm bullets fired from a pistol.
The main tasks of ballistic protection are the absorption and dissipation of ballistic impact energy. For this reason, bulletproof vests usually consist of several layers. Their woven or composite layers are made from strands of high tenacity fibers. When hit by a bullet, the material absorbs kinetic energy - a pistol bullet travels at 400 m/s - by stretching the fibers and other stiff fibers that spread the load over a large area of the material. This slows down the movement of the bullet and ultimately prevents it from penetrating the body.
Body armor, designed specifically to repel rifle fire, should be tougher as these bullets fly at a speed of approximately 800 m / s. Therefore, in addition to layers of fibers, durable materials such as ceramic or steel plates must be inserted. The protective plates absorb and dissipate more kinetic energy, and the bullet itself also becomes dull.
A big problem for high strength fibers is their sensitivity to environmental factors such as high temperatures, high humidity or sweat. According to experts, this can speed up their natural aging process and may ultimately leave them vulnerable to decay. Therefore, the special protective layers of body armor must themselves be protected from such environmental influences in order to ensure a long service life.
Although no one doubts that a body worn by a soldier by a soldier can reduce mortality and the number of injuries inflicted by small arms. weapons or explosions on mines, but in itself it can be heavy, bulky and uncomfortable to wear. These three factors have motivated researchers around the world to develop body armor that is more effective than ever in providing protection, while at the same time not hindering the wearer's movements. An important step was taken in July 2012, when the US military tested underwear designed specifically for men and women. Until now, women and men have worn the same protection, which was created from the very beginning for military men.
ArmorWorks protective underwear provides excellent freedom of movement with optimal anti-explosion protection against IEDs. Tight athletic design offers maximum comfort
Scientists are studying substances known as non-Newtonian liquids (viscous-plastic liquids) in order to create effective forms of stuffing material for lightweight and flexible protection elements. Unlike water, non-Newtonian liquids change their characteristics when an external influence is applied to them, for example, they thicken with vigorous stirring.
Along with adapting bodyguards to the physical characteristics of men and women, another important aspect of improving comfort is to reduce the weight of future models of bodyguards. The answer can be found in the application of so-called non-Newtonian or viscoplastic fluids. Unlike Newtonian fluids such as water, non-Newtonian fluids have the important property of changing their properties when pressure is applied to them. Currently, most of the body protection models use a combination of Kevlar and metal or ceramic plates. As a torso protector, Kevlar fabric will prevent the bullet from penetrating but will not dampen its kinetic energy. That is, it must be stopped behind the Kevlar cloth. Plates can do this, but they increase the mass of body protection. However, progress in non-Newtonian fluids is advancing. Singapore-based Softshell has developed a material known as ID Flex, which is potentially the "active ingredient" in promising body protection products for the military and security forces, but could be used in sporting goods and as part of protective cases for consumer electronics such as mobile phones.
BAE Systems and D3O Impact Protection, which mainly produces sports goods, also expect to sell products for military and civilian consumers.
Another solution to the problem of overweight underbody protection can be found in the common house spider. The thread that spiders spin to create their web has fascinated scientists for a long time. Anyone who has cleaned the corners of dusty rooms from cobwebs could attest to the fact that these cobwebs are made of a material that looks thin, but is nevertheless strong and elastic. At the Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Research in Germany, work is underway to study what makes the thread of spiders so strong. Essentially, the spiders produce webs that are estimated to be three times more flexible than Kevlar and five times stronger than steel. However, developing an artificial web is far from easy. Obstacles here include deciphering the DNA of the web strand and developing ways to mass-produce the protein that makes up this strand.
For weight-critical wear protection applications, Ceradyne recommends hot-pressed boron carbide and silicon carbide, which have high mass efficiency (the ratio of armor surface density to total armor area) and are suitable for high volume production. Composites are vertically integrated with hot-pressed boron carbide and silicon carbide ceramics to create tough, multi-hit protection. To ensure the highest performance advanced ceramic materials for the lightest mass solutions, Ceradyne uses its own firing range to test body armor materials and designs against a wide range of threats, down to 7,62mm AP bullets. The ceramic face of lightweight wearable life splits the bullet on impact. Ceramic performance is enhanced by a proprietary backing layer that provides structural support and absorbs residual energy. High hardness and strength combined with low density give ceramics unique qualities as a key component of advanced protection systems.
Composites and Defense Systems, Morgan's Advanced Materials division, recently received two contracts from the Canadian government to develop body armor that will focus on a lightweight, low-profile design with improved personal protection plate performance. The new bulletproof vest will meet the requirements for protection against various threats, including multi-hit requirements. These two contracts run until March 2016 with optional production extended through March 2021.
Morgan's defense development program is exactly in line with the goals set by Canada's so-called First Defense Strategy, which guarantees a greater proportion of local content based on the capabilities of Canadian industry. The recent development contract is an extension of the company's impressive portfolio, which supplies plates not only to the British Ministry of Defense, but also to the US Army and special forces.
“We are pleased with the implementation of these two prestigious contracts, which underline our excellent reputation in the industry,” said Duncan Eldridge, president of Morgan Advanced Materials. “The new plates demonstrate the state’s commitment to developing protection for the soldiers, and we understand that these new armor plates will play an important role in this.”
Zebra Sun has manufactured for leading body protection companies in Europe and the USA and has exported over 350000 helmets, as well as a full range of wearable protection products worldwide. The company's advantage lies in the development and production of efficient manufacturing processes leading to high-quality products.
Helmet Dyneema HD80 Helmet Shell. PLASTAZOTE HD80 is a material with relatively high compressive strength 0,60 MPa. It absorbs energy due to elastic and inelastic deformation. Although it will lose a certain ability to absorb energy after an impact, this material will remain intact and provide some protection against subsequent hits.
Specialist Ariel Mallu, a member of a sniper team in the 101st Airborne Division, is testing his third-generation Improved Outer Tactical Vest prototype for the first time. These prototypes, with a shorter torso length and other enhancements, are designed specifically for the female military. They were tested for several weeks at Fort Campbell. The US Army uses Solpolyaramid to reduce weight and increase the level of protection
Armor for cars
AmSafe Bridport, with its TARIAN RPG protection system, recently received a contract from the British Ministry of Defense for advanced protection systems for its vehicles. The contract includes the delivery of several hundred TARIAN RPG Armor System kits for several types of vehicles that are currently in operation in Afghanistan. The £10,6 million contract was completed by the end of 2013. Compared to traditional grating screens, TARIAN provides improved protection and because these kits are significantly lighter, the company says this will allow machines to operate more efficiently. Starting in May 2009, the TARIAN system was installed on vehicles in Afghanistan, and from April 2011, along with QUICKSHIELD repair kits, it began to be installed to replace damaged lattice armor.
Ceradyne supplies DEFENDER vehicle armor systems, which include the latest products that increase the levels of protection for wheeled combat and logistics vehicles. Ceradyne is working closely with original system vendors to provide tailored composite armor solutions for light combat vehicles that allow designers to get the most out of these vehicles' limited payload capacity and maximize occupant and driver survivability.
General Dynamics uses a modular reservation system for the Specialist Vehicle (SV) family of the British Army that meets the most stringent mine action requirements of STANAG
The modular booking and explosion protection system RAMTECH2 from Ceradyne uses a variety of modern lightweight materials for direct use on wheeled tactical vehicles. RAMTECH2 materials meet or exceed the requirements for protection levels defined in the Long Term Armor Strategy (LTAS) of the American Army and NATO STANAG 4569.
IBD Deisenroth Engineering has developed the Evolution Survivability Concept to protect medium platforms and MBTs from serious threats. This concept uses the latest nanotechnology integrated into the IBD PROTech product family, and it has already been applied in several modernization projects of the main combat tanks.
Using the latest modular composite technology, Rheinmetall develops system solutions to protect ground systems from ballistic threats, landmines and IEDs. Rheinmetall Defense provides modular, OE-independent designs ranging from modernization programs and solutions to address urgent operational needs to completely new designs. One of the biggest challenges for today's military is to equip vehicles, helicopters and ships with the maximum possible protection while minimizing the amount of additional protection. The VERHA-Land (Versatile Rheinmetall Armor) system is made from a variety of combat tested materials such as custom coated aramid, high performance polyethylene and fiberglass. Against high-level threats, these materials can be combined with different types of ballistic ceramics for better protection and optimal mobility.
Protection of armored vehicles is an increase in the level of security, and for the crew, even a matter of life and death. To enhance protection against threats of any type, RUAG has developed various effective, modular and easy-to-install systems that have all been tested in combat conditions.
Border protection systems from RUAG are highly efficient and easy to install. The size and shape of the protection modules are adapted to the machines and requirements. According to RUAG, modular protection does not impair mobility.
RUAG, as a machine manufacturer with a security division, knows how the machine moves and therefore finds the most sensible solutions that do not add excessive mass, which is a big problem on a modern battlefield.
RUAG supplies SidePRO vehicle protection systems, which include the latest protection products for wheeled and tracked combat and logistics vehicles. These security solutions use a variety of advanced security materials to provide system solutions that meet the needs of the soldier and counter common threats on the battlefield. These advanced state-of-the-art systems are modular and adaptable to local threats; they allow you to quickly and effectively adjust to the levels of armor protection and increased survivability.
SidePRO-ATR is a high-tech, fully integrated, modular passive protection system for medium BTR and MBT systems, which use various lightweight materials for direct use on these machines.
In combat shooting, RUAG demonstrated the multi-shock capabilities of the SidePRO-ATR defense system, which was fired at RPG-7ВM grenades. All four grenades were stopped, confirming the ability of the SidePRO-ATR fully passive defense system to withstand kinetic and high-explosive shells, attack cores and RPGs.
During the same tests, RUAG demonstrated the capabilities of the SidePRO-KE/IED when hit by standard 14,5x114 B32 armor-piercing incendiary bullets (simulating an RPG attack) and detonation artillery projectile (simulation of a roadside bomb or IED explosion). The SidePRO-KE/IED stopped all bullets, demonstrating its multi-hit capabilities. The damage after the artillery IED explosion was very small, the base layer was not penetrated, all multiple fragments were stopped by the SidePRO-KE/IED system, thus confirming its excellent protective qualities.
Both SidePRO-ATR and SidePRO-KE / IED systems with their excellent multi-impact capabilities, protecting vehicles from the effects of multiple projectiles, explosions and debris, are the perfect solution in today's theater. They add a very small mass, while providing excellent protection with minimal reduction in maneuverability and power reserve.
The RUP SidePRO LASSO system uses new materials and methods of attachment to the vehicle. Fixing the grid elements at one point (and not at two as in the previous version) allows you to provide constant access to all original components of the machine, for example, winch and towing bar
At DSEi 2013, RUAG Defense showcased the latest enhancements to its SidePRO-LASSO protection system. It was created in close cooperation with the operating units, as a result of which the designers achieved a weight reduction of up to 30% and an increase in the protected area of the vehicle. The SidePRO-LASSO system has been saving soldiers' lives since 2007. This mesh protection system can be installed on any armored vehicle to increase the level of protection against RPGs - the main threat that the military currently faces in today's asymmetric conflicts. It has been used by a number of international contingents in peacekeeping operations around the world.
The engineers of the Swiss company RUAG, thanks to close ties with the operating units and their combat experience, finalized and improved the SidePRO-LASSO system. Improvements have been made to both the material and the method of attaching the SidePRO-LASSO to the machine. Attaching the mesh to one rather than two points provides more flexibility as it keeps all the original parts of the machine, such as the winch or tow bar, at all times accessible. Previously, the user had to choose between access to all these elements or protection, but now he can have both at the same time, which thus increases the total protected area of \uXNUMXb\uXNUMXbthe machine.
Weight is the most important factor when choosing a protection system. The protection system should not impose unnecessary restrictions on the machine and somehow degrade the previous performance. The weight of SidePRO-LASSO has been reduced by replacing the previous method of attaching the system to the machine with a more technologically advanced one. Currently, instead of two heavy steel brackets, one aluminum one is used. This not only increases the operational flexibility of the system, as mentioned above, but reduces the total weight to 12 kg/m2, i.e. by about 30%.
In addition to working on the SidePRO-LASSO, RUAG has experience in protection solutions for the roof, sides and bottom of vehicles. As a developer and supplier of materials, RUAG uses its extensive experience to create customized solutions to meet the specific requirements of each customer.
Saab's new Soft Armor system was shown at DSEi 2013. The Soft Armor system offers protection against ballistic threats up to armor-piercing bullets of caliber 7,62 mm NATO standard (STANAG Level III). Because the system is modular, it can be installed on existing structures or machines that require additional protection. Saab's Soft Armor system is a modular concept designed for increased survivability and can be installed on any pre-mission structure or even existing structures in the theater. Unique ceramic material protects against ballistic attacks. Soft Armor is a patented ballistic protection technology that keeps people safe in dangerous outdoor environments. Soft Armor also protects valuable weapons and objects. Soft Armor protects against small arms ammunition, including armor-piercing ones. The system has a lower overall cost compared to ceramic and composite protection, high operational flexibility, multi-impact properties, and it can also be reused.
Marshall Land Systems has partnered with Israel's Plasan to develop UltraFLEXFENCE, a scalable, modular protection system that can be installed on a variety of vehicles. This kit is being deployed as part of the British Ministry of Defense requirement for an RPG protection system, which provides for the installation of UltraFLEXFENCE on British vehicles operating in Afghanistan. BAE Systems developed the L-ROD RPG protection system based on the DARPA (US Defense Advanced Research and Development Administration) initiative, which provides for the development of an RPG protection kit that could be installed on AM General HMMWV and MRAP category vehicles. As a result, aluminum alloy lattice screens were created that are installed around the vehicle. Guards in the form of lattice screens offer good protection against the threat of RPGs, although many kits are constructed from steel, which can increase weight. To reduce weight, BAE Systems uses more aluminum than steel. Qinetiq's LAST armor can adapt to specific threats, including small arms fire, armor-piercing heavy machine gun bullets, 30mm automatic cannons, and improvised explosive devices.
Q-Net protection kits for tactical vehicles can be supplied to the troops, where the crews themselves can easily install them
The Q-Net protection system from Qinetiq uses a mesh to protect against RPGs of various tactical and lightly armored vehicles. Its relatively light weight and low cost provide protection against RPGs from all angles, including attacks from above. ArmorWorks supplies high-tech armor protection, which is installed not only on several American vehicles, but also on the vehicles of the armies of many countries around the world. ArmorWorks is not a materials manufacturer, but a designer and manufacturer of military armor and specializes in defense system technology. ArmorWorks has manufactured over 300 ceramic and composite armor components for a variety of personnel, aircraft and vehicle protection applications.
TNO has developed a special testing method for assessing the ballistic characteristics of fragmentation pads. Although there are no prescribed international standards, TNO can accurately and consistently determine the reduction in the fragment angle as a result of the use of fragmentation pads. Below, shelling test plates. Left plate without splinter podboy, right - with splinter lining
Perspective protection
According to experts, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are an ideal material for advanced body armor due to their unique combination of extremely high elastic modulus and high yield strength. The problem with high-quality fibers is their sensitivity to external influences, such as high temperatures. CNTs (hollow cylinders of carbon one atom thick) can have very high hardness. When they are introduced, for example, into a tile of a composite material with a polymer matrix, they are very likely to deform and destroy the projectile. Due to their unique combination of high modulus of elasticity and high fracture strain, they could absorb a huge amount of energy through elasticity. These properties can cause the bullet to bounce or change direction, which would provide protection from blunt trauma while improving multi-hit performance.
Such nanofiber tubes also have characteristics that allow them to be woven into fabric or incorporated into composite materials. As woven or non-woven fabrics or composite fibers, carbon nanotubes could achieve excellent ballistic performance. Incorporated into current fibers, they could improve their ballistic performance by increasing strength, stiffness, and toughness. For example, they can be incorporated into polymer matrix composite, steel, or ceramic inserts to improve hardness, stiffness, and erosion resistance.
IBD Deisenroth Engineering has discovered in its research that some natural fibers with nanometric filaments (thin fibers) have excellent dynamic properties, surpassing those of other modern fibers, even aramid and polyethylene. Laminates made with these natural fibers could be used to create high-strength structural elements for vehicles and aircraft with good protective performance, lighter weight and lower cost. IBD research has shown that due to its microscopic structure, some natural nanofibers have outstanding energy absorption characteristics.
The Laboratory for Defense Science and Technology (DSTL) and Kennametal Manufacturing jointly fund a center for the development of protective materials worth 2 million pounds. It will be the largest in Europe and will include 50 employees. It will develop full-size ceramic armor components to protect people and machines, large enough to carry out full impact tests.
DSTL is already working with Tata Steel in Port Talbote on the development of advanced steel armor and the lab will soon become the British center for modern military booking technologies.
Tata Steel in Europe supplies several specialized solutions that address today's defense and security challenges, ranging from products that provide excellent protection against mine attacks to high-tech components for military equipment. The range of materials, products and services from Tata Steel is quite extensive: steel plates and sections, armored steel, anti-blast structures, perimeter security, vehicle barriers, as well as technical advice and solutions.
Improving development and manufacturing in the UK will also help reduce dependence on imports of ceramic armor and make it more accessible when developing any prospective machines and wearable protection.
Armor protection is far from a static science, it is constantly evolving. The old adage that war speeds up scientific development has undoubtedly been confirmed in recent years. The development of protection systems, especially the protection of people and vehicles, went on with giant strides. It is obvious that this movement will maintain its pace even after NATO withdraws from Afghanistan in 2014-2015. There is a danger, however, that military establishments around the world will be tempted to cut budgets for research and development of defense systems, as the withdrawal from this troubled country is completed. Another danger that should never be discounted is that levels of protection equivalent to what is available today will be required in future conflicts.
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