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Leonidas
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Topic: The modern Australian military Posted: 19-Nov-2007 at 10:31 |
update
A ceremonial handover took place at Robertson Barracks today to mark
the introduction to service of the first four M113AS4 Armoured
Personnel Carriers to the Armys 7th Battalion, The Royal Australian
Regiment.
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source: Australian Department of Defence; issued Nov. 15, 2007
Project Overview
LAND 106 was endorsed by Government in the 2000 Defence White Paper
to provide a major upgrade of 350 of the Armys in-service M113A1
vehicles. The upgrade will provide significant enhancements in
protection, lethality and mobility whilst also providing improved
supportability:
- Protection. Protection will be significantly enhanced
with the addition of appliqu armour and spall curtains as well as
a number of changes designed to enhance the vehicles mine protection.
- Lethality. Lethality will be increased with the incorporation
of a totally new electrically powered turret. The turret will be fitted with
a quick-change barrel machine gun and a new day/night gun sight.
- Mobility. The upgrade includes a new engine, transmission,
drive train and drivers controls. To maximise the benefits of this
new driveline the suspension, track and road wheels are also being replaced.
- Supportability. Improvements include new electrical and
fuel systems, improved habitability and a range of new stowage layouts to
meet the diverse requirements of the numerous user units.
At the completion of the upgrade each of the variants will be
designated as either an M113AS3 or M113AS4. The designations AS3 and
AS4 refer to the carrying capacity of the upgraded vehicles. The AS3
variants have five road wheel stations per side and a Recommended Gross
Vehicle Mass (RGVM) of 15,000kg. The AS4 variants have been stretched
by 666mm, with an additional road wheel station per side and a RGVM of
18,000kg.
There are seven variants of the M113AS being produced. These are Armoured
Personnel Carrier (M113AS4 APC); Armoured Fitters (M113AS4 AF); Armoured Recovery
Vehicle Light (M806AS4 ARVL); Armoured Ambulance (M113AS4 AA); Armoured Mortar
(M125AS3 AM); Armoured Command Vehicle (M113AS4 ACV); and Armoured Logistic
Vehicle (M113AS4 ALV).
The contract is structured in 3 stages to mitigate development risk for the Commonwealth:
- Stage 1 was the development and preliminary testing of two Demonstration
vehicles.
- Stage 2 was the design, construction and testing of the first of the Initial
Production Vehicles (IPV).
- Stage 3 is the design, construction and testing of the remaining Initial
Production Vehicles and the delivery of 336 production standard vehicles.
| Sourcemore from Tenix which covers the upgrades in better detail.
The M113AS Family of Vehicles (FOV) will have greater firepower, protection
and mobility than the existing M113A1 fleet.
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A powerful EURO III four-stroke DaimlerChrysler-MTU engine coupled to a
six gear ZF automatic transmission will improve speed and mobility
- Yoke steering with true pivot turn and natural
steering input in reverse
-
Upgraded vehicles will have base level protection enhanced by external
appliqu armour and spall curtains for increased vehicle and crew
protection
- A new Tenix designed and manufactured turret will
provide a platform to ensure superior firepower
-
Revised seating and stowage layouts in the M113AS4 APC(S) to provide
improved habitability for the vehicle crew and passengers
-
Hull reinforcement to improve mine blast protection
Tenix has chosen German company FFG as the major technology partner for the
program. Other key subcontractors and suppliers include Thales Optronics,
Moog GmbH, SKF Australia, Bisalloy and a number of Australian SMEs. | tenixnow for the pictures.... everyone arriving for the photo shoot M113AS4 AF - Armoured Personnel Carrier (Fitters) M806AS3 ARVL - Armoured Recovery Vehicle Light M113AS4 in the NT test range
Mass a. Unladen 11600 kg b. Maximum loading 18000 kg Dimensions a. Length 6000 mm b. Width 2620 mm c. Height with Cradle 2600 mm d. Ground Clearance i. Unladen 400 mm ii. Limiting Feature Belly plate
Engine
- Manufacturer/Type MTU 6V 199 TE
- No. of Cylinders V6
- Power (Nett) 260kW @ 2000rpm
- Torque (Nett) 1730 Nm @ 1080rpm
- Capacity 11.95 litres
Performance
- Fording depth(unprepared) 1600 mm
- Turning Circle(normal vehicle moving) 14.0 metres
- Turning circle (vehicle stationary) Pivot turn
- Maximum gradient 60%
- Maximum side slope 30%
- Fuel consumption highway laden 69 litres per 100 km
- Speed maximum 67 km/hr
Fire Power: Weapon mount allows mission-dependent selection of either:- Browning Type 12.7mm (0.50 inch) Calibre M2-Heavy Barrel, Quick Change Barrel Machine Gun7.62mm MAG 58 Coaxial Machine Gun, or
- 7.62mm MAG 58 GPMG
- Ready round storage: 250 x 12.7mm/600 x 7.62mm rounds
| sourceedit: changed the pictures realized Balaam already had posted them (sorry Balaam) added descriptions
Edited by Leonidas - 20-Nov-2007 at 11:51
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Leonidas
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Posted: 12-Sep-2007 at 08:38 |
update
11 September 2007
Firing of Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile
The frigate HMAS Sydney fired a missile against a Kalkara unmanned
airborne target on Monday 20 August 2007. The missile was successfully
launched and controlled in flight, resulting in the destruction of the
target.
The
missile was fired from the Vertical Launch System recently installed in
HMAS Sydney as part of the FFG Upgrade Program. The firing was
supported by the upgraded combat system and the Australian Distributed
Architecture Combat System (ADACS) software being developed and
delivered by the former ADI Ltd, now trading as Thales Australia.
This
Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile firing is the first from an FFG-7 class
frigate, a class in service with many navies around the world. HMAS
Sydney is undergoing a multi-million dollar upgrade including its
combat system. The ship now is equipped with two missile systems to
combat anti-ship missiles and aircraft.
This
successful firing is a significant achievement for the FFG Upgrade
Program. It justifies confidence in the current upgrade of the
Australian Distributed Architecture Combat System (ADACS) software used
to support this first-of-class firing of the Evolved Sea Sparrow
Missile from the installed Vertical Launch System.
The FFG Upgrade Project is scheduled for completion in December 2009.
| http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2007/Sep/20070911a/index.htmInformation can be on the ESSM in my post on Page 5 of the Greek military thread
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Leonidas
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Posted: 21-Jun-2007 at 06:26 |
3 billion purchase from a 2 billion dollar tender, Australia buys two LHD (landing helicopter dock) from Spain. The ADFs current capability is provided by the following ships: Two amphibious transport ships (LPA) HMAS Manoora and Kanimbla to be replaced by 2015; One heavy landing ship (LSH) HMAS Tobruk to be replaced in 2010; Six heavy landing craft (LCH) to be retired from 2008; and Fifteen medium landing craft (LCM8) to be replaced in 2010. Australias LCMs can carry either one Leopard Mk1 main battle tank, two armoured vehicles or up to 100 troops source The Canberra Class Amphibious Ship 1Each new ship can hold 11 helicopters with 6 spots; and also dock four LCM's and transport 1,100 soldiers. Photo's of the Spanish models. These will replace the Tobruk and the two Kanimbla class LPA's (Landing Platform Amphibious). PERFORMANCE |
Speed |
Max |
20.5 kts |
Top (Normal) |
19.0 kts |
Economical |
15.0 kts |
Range |
Standard |
6,100 nm at 15 kts |
Option |
7,050 nm at 12 kts |
Endurance |
Core Complement |
50 days |
PLATFORM CHARACTERISTICS |
Length |
Overall |
230.8 m |
Waterline |
207.2 m |
Beam |
|
32.0 m |
Draught |
|
7.18 m |
Displacement |
Maximum |
27,851 t |
Complement |
Crew |
243 |
Embarked Forces |
978 |
Additional |
Crew |
36 |
Embarked Forces |
146 | Tenix
Edited by Leonidas - 21-Jun-2007 at 06:32
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Leonidas
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Posted: 14-Jun-2007 at 09:03 |
update On-time delivery of the no. 1 A330 MRTT platform clears the way for its conversion and outfitting to the tanker mission role"The first A330 Multi-role Tanker Transport (MRTT) platform was formally
presented during a "roll-in" ceremony today, marking a key on-time
milestone in the development of the worlds most advanced aerial tanker
system.
This event occurred inside a brand new EADS CASA conversion and
modification center at the company's Getafe, Spain factory near Madrid,
where the no. 1 A330 MRTT will be outfitted with its full complement of
aerial refueling systems and mission equipment for delivery to the
Royal Australian Air Force.
"Todays A330 MRTT roll-in ceremony which also marks the
inauguration of a very impressive EADS conversion facility represents
tangible milestones in a program that has imperatives for schedule and
timing," said Air Vice-Marshall Clive Rossiter, who heads Australia's
Defence Materiel Organisations Aerospace Systems Division. "In fact,
EADS has delivered ahead of schedule, which is extremely important in a
project as ambitious as this one."
Australias A330 MRTT is a similar platform configuration to the
KC-30 Advanced Multi-role Tanker/Transport, which Northrop Grumman and
EADS North America are offering for the capitalization of the U.S. Air
Force's aging aerial refueling fleet. The Royal Australian Air Force's
five A330 MRTTs will be outfitted with a state-of-the-art centerline
Air Refueling Boom System (ARBS) with fly-by-wire controls, plus two
under-wing hose and drogue pods. In addition, the aircraft will carry
an electronic warfare suite that protects against surface-to-air
missile threats, along with a Link 16 network system that provides
real-time airborne connectivity." Link
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Leonidas
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Posted: 06-May-2007 at 09:04 |
Originally posted by Gundamor
Kind of surprised you both say raptor. It doesnt support the ground well and would figure Australia would want a better multipurpose aircraft. That and I'm biased and totally against the Raptor going to any country for a few years. I would pick the Eurofighter or a newer Russian aircraft in the SU class.
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japan is already negotiating and momemtum is building (both south korea and isreal show interest as well) I'll quote parts of this article
Momentum is building within the Air Force
to sell the service's prized F-22A Raptor -- which is loaded with
super-secret systems -- to trusted U.S. allies, with Japan viewed as
the most likely buyer, service and industry officials tell Inside the Air Force.
A Lockheed Martin official heavily involved in the Raptor program told ITAF Feb.
14 that a proposal to alter course and sell the Raptor to Japan is
working its way through the Air Force. Lockheed is leading development
and production work on the service's newest fighter.
Right now, [the proposal] is at the three- or four-star level
within the Air Force, the Lockheed official said. It's not at the
highest levels yet . . . to the people who really count -- but it's
getting there.
Several service officials, including a key four-star command chief, that have spoken with ITAF also
have confirmed that the notion of selling a yet-undetermined number of
Raptors to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) is indeed picking
up steam among blue-suited military and civilian decision-makers. |
A Japanese defense official said Feb. 14 that the Asian nation is very
interested in purchasing the F-22A as a replacement for its F-4
aircraft, and confirmed the JASDF has contacted both Raptor-maker
Lockheed Martin and the Air Force about buying the fighter. |
Link
This is pissing me off even more (even if i believed it was b*sh*t at the time), our governmet told us it wasn't for sale
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Leonidas
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Posted: 06-May-2007 at 08:48 |
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Leonidas
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Posted: 01-Apr-2007 at 05:32 |
thanks for your contribution Balaam and Knights. picture of the first Aussie NH-90 (MRH-90) in france on its maiden flight in late march Link to the article
Edited by Leonidas - 01-Apr-2007 at 09:12
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Balaam
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Posted: 25-Mar-2007 at 02:11 |
Originally posted by Hellios
Originally posted by Balaam
Australian soldiers and an ASLAV in Iraq |
Balaam,
What kind of assault rifle is that troop (on the right) carrying?
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Yep as Knights answered it is a F88 Austeyr. The F88 is the Australian derivitave of the Steyr AUG.
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Knights
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Posted: 24-Mar-2007 at 22:44 |
Originally posted by Balaam
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'AWP' from Counter Strike? The Aussies use the AW 50F. It's a modified version of the AW 50, "it is fitted with a folding stock (hence the F) and Madco barrel". (wiki)
One of Australia's revolutionary productions is the Bushmaster. There are some other pictures of it around the topic.
It has been extremely heavily tested in every environment possible, and the ADF are happy with it.
Army-Technology:
WEAPONS
"The commander's hatch on the left is equipped with a weapon mount for a 5.56mm or 7.62mm machine gun. A light cannon can also be fitted. The ballistically protected windows can be fitted with optional shooting ports.
Lockers can be replaced with additional ammunition and arms or fuel and water tanks to extend the operational radius. The crew seating can be reconfigured to accommodate operational requirements.
44 Australian Army vehicles are being fitted with the Recon Optical/ Electro Optic Systems Ltd Raven R-400 weapon station. The system is in service with the US Army, designated the M101 Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS). Raven sensors include thermal imager, CCD TV and eyesafe laser rangefinder."
Australian troops dismount from Bushmaster in Iraq, carrying Austeyr F88.
The Dutch have purchased Bushmasters from Australia and are currently in use in Afghanistan.
"The Bushmaster IMV is capable of fulfilling a variety of roles on mission, ranging from an ambulance, combat engineering station or mortar-basing to troop transport and direct conflict vehicle. It's expediency is valuable in all terrains (up to 110kph) and maneuverability/ruggedness. The Bushmaster is a very sturdy and reliable vehicle, and was hence given the OK by the ADI and Defence Ministry."
Bushmaster in the Australian Snowy Mountains, with tyre chains.
Bushmaster and army troops training in Australian Bush. Can anyone identify which gun the soldier is carrying?
Bushmaster IMV in Iraq.
Full speed ahead.
Out in the desert, the Bushmaster is capable of accomodating soldiers, food, bedding & 270L water tank under chassis.
Twilight in the desert.
Image sources:
Australian Defence Force website (various branches)
Army Technology
For extra resources: www.defence.gov.au - excellent sources on the Bushmaster, press/media releases, reports, overviews + images.
Edit: scroll bars removed.
Edited by Hellios - 25-Mar-2007 at 00:00
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Knights
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Posted: 24-Mar-2007 at 18:41 |
If I may answer for Balaam it is an Austeyr F88 is it not? I think it is a modification of the Steyr AUG. Wiki tells you the varieties used by the ADF: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AusteyrSome information on the Austeyr is towards the end of this post: http://www.allempires.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=17641&PID=345406#345406^ Austeyr with M203 grenade launcher and ADI scope The Austeyr has proven to be a very effective and liked weapon among the ranks of the ADF, especially tactical response/reconaissence/special forces. Further developments are underway for a new generation F88 due for release in 2010. The Kiwis use the Austeyr too.
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SearchAndDestroy
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Posted: 24-Mar-2007 at 18:34 |
Looks like a bullpup design. Though his arm is in the way and theres some shadow making hard to really see.
I was going to ask if it was a Steyr AUG, but it doesn't look like it matches up to well.
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"A patriot must always be ready to defend his country against his government." E.Abbey
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Hellios
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Posted: 24-Mar-2007 at 18:26 |
Originally posted by Balaam
Australian soldiers and an ASLAV in Iraq |
Balaam,
What kind of assault rifle is that troop (on the right) carrying?
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Balaam
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Posted: 24-Mar-2007 at 10:12 |
The Accuracy International AW sniper rifle is the standard-issue sniper rifle in the Australian Army today. The rifle replaced the Parker-Hale Model 82 sniper rifle in the late 1990's. The AW sniper rifle is officially known as the SR-98 in Australian Army service and is manufactured under licence in Australia by ADI Limited.
Specifications:
Weight 13 kg (30 lbs) Length 1,350 mm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cartridge 12.7 x 99 mm NATO Caliber .50 BMG Action Bolt-action Effective range 1,500 m (4,920 feet) Feed system Box magazine, 5 rounds Sights Mil spec Mk II in 6x, 10x and standard iron sights
Edit: link made clickable.
Edited by Hellios - 25-Mar-2007 at 00:05
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Balaam
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Posted: 24-Mar-2007 at 10:06 |
The Australian Army, the Royal Australian Navy, and the Royal Australian Air Force use a locally built (ADI) version of the FN light machine gun. It is essentially the same, but fitted with a Picatinny rail and the same 1.5x magnification optical sight as used on the F88 rifle. It also has a longer flash suppressor (same type as the FN MAG 58) than the standard Minimi. There is no heat shield and the carrying handle is fixed, not folding. Each F89 comes with two live barrels and one blank-firing barrel. The gunner will normally carry the spare barrel in the field. Two F89s are carried in each nine-man infantry section. Small numbers of the Minimi Para are used by Australian paratroopers and special forces.
Specifications:
Weight 7.1 kg Length 1,038 mm (41 in) Para: 914 mm (stock extended), 766 mm (retracted) Barrel length 465 mm (18 in) Para: 349 mm
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cartridge 5.56 x 45 mm NATO (STANAG 4172) Action Gas-operated, open bolt Rate of fire 725 round/min with linked belt Effective range 1,000 m Para: 800 m Feed system 200-round M27 disintegrating belts 100 or 200-round reusable soft packs 100-round Beta C-Mag 30-round STANAG magazines
Edit: link made clickable.
Edited by Hellios - 25-Mar-2007 at 00:03
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Balaam
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Posted: 24-Mar-2007 at 09:57 |
Leopards operating
A Bushmaster (left) and ASLAV (right) in Iraq
M198 Howitzers firing during an exercise
From left to right, a Chinook, Blackhawk and Tiger helicopter
Fully equipped Australian infantrymen arrive in the Solomon Islands in December 2004
Australian soldiers and an ASLAV in Iraq
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Balaam
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Posted: 22-Mar-2007 at 08:16 |
Im pretty sure these are M113AS4's
Edited by Hellios - 22-Mar-2007 at 09:03
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Hellios
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Posted: 22-Mar-2007 at 05:11 |
4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment commandos, Iraq.
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Hellios
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Posted: 22-Mar-2007 at 05:09 |
4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment commandos, Iraq.
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Balaam
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Posted: 22-Mar-2007 at 04:22 |
Not really much to go with the topic but these are some games our splendid military has provided for us and they are quite addictive
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SearchAndDestroy
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Posted: 21-Mar-2007 at 11:40 |
Are you sure? I know wikipedia isn't the best source, but it says the F-15 and F-18 superhornet are comparable with the Su-30, and I tend to agree. Plus the F-18 is constantly being upgraded, not sure about the F-15. The F-18 seems to keep going to the next level, ofcourse it won't match a F-22 though. The F-22 easily takes on F-15s without sweating it.
But I think the F-18 is a great aircraft and would be able to hold it's own against the Su-30. But again, I'm no expert.
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"A patriot must always be ready to defend his country against his government." E.Abbey
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