DSEI 2017: Israeli counter-IED solution ready

Israel Aerospace Industries' Elta division is developing a counter IED and mine suite (CIMS) designed to protect tactical vehicles from improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The system, which is expected to be ready for commercial sale by the end of the year, features a multi-sensor setup that can detect and neutralize hidden explosives from a distance. The suite includes an above-surface detection system (ADS) and an underground mine and IED detection system (MIDS), with the latter still under development. The ADS is equipped with technologies such as a side-looking synthetic aperture radar, a high-resolution optical detection system, and infrared capabilities.

Maritime & Trade: Shipping Intelligence

The article discusses the services provided by the Maritime & Trade business of S&P Global, which includes delivering the latest news, analysis, and events in the maritime sector. The coverage spans various aspects of the industry such as containerized shipping, maritime safety, dredging, and port construction. The company prides itself on its long history, dating back to the 1800s, and its established role in the shipping media landscape, offering both editorial content and industry-leading events.

Revamped SPEED-LR sees the light of day

Controp Precision Technologies, an Israeli company specializing in electro-optics and infrared (EO/IR) systems, has launched a new fully digital long-range ground observation system named SPEED-LR. This system is designed for applications such as border, perimeter, and coastal surveillance, as well as the protection of sensitive sites and force protection. The new SPEED-LR system is a multispectral, stabilized platform aimed at enhancing persistent surveillance capabilities, with a focus on the rapid detection and identification of potential threats from long distances. Although the system shares its name with an older ground surveillance system previously produced by Controp, the new SPEED-LR has been updated with new or enhanced capabilities.

Israel investigates cargo potential of Heron

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has developed a combat cargo supply drone based on its Heron MK II MALE UAV to meet the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) urgent operational need for unmanned delivery of ammunition or medical items to combat zones. The drone is designed to supply small shipments of cargo, and IAI is currently in negotiations with potential customers who have shown interest in this capability. Avi Bleser, VP of marketing and sales at IAI's military aircraft group, highlighted the ongoing discussions with these customers.

Sikorsky's waiting game for IAF's transport helicopter replacement

Sikorsky is actively competing to have the Israeli Air Force select its CH-53K King Stallion helicopter over the Boeing CH-47 Chinook. The Israeli Air Force is in the process of modernizing its fleet and is considering replacing its squadron of CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopters. Currently, the Air Force operates a squadron of 26 CH-53D helicopters, which may be replaced by the CH-53K model. A decision on the procurement is anticipated by 2019. Brig Gen Nir Nin-Nun of the Israeli Air Force has been involved in evaluating the CH-53K, marking a significant step in the procurement process.

Israeli intelligence unit confronts COVID-19

Unit 81, a research and development laboratory within the Israel Defense Forces Intelligence Directorate, has collaborated with Israel's health ministry, the Magen David Adom emergency service, and hospitals to address medical challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to concerns over insufficient ventilator capacity, Unit 81 launched the Breathing Air programme in March. The deputy commander, Lt Col A, whose surname is not disclosed for security reasons, stated that while Unit 81 typically focuses on developing classified technologies for combat, they have shifted focus to support the national effort against the coronavirus.

Burgeoning ties between Greece and Israel extend to shipbuilding

Greece is considering the acquisition of a new class of vessel, the Themistocles corvette, to replace its aging Elli-class frigates. The potential new ships are based on an Israeli design, following a strategic partnership between Onex Neorion Shipyards, a subsidiary of US-based Onex, and Israel Shipyards. The Themistocles corvette would be 72 meters long, have a top speed of over 30 knots, and a displacement of about 800 tons, making it suitable for maritime patrol missions and protecting the Greek Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The agreement between the two shipyards stipulates that the vessels would be constructed entirely in Greece.

Israeli firms showcase unmanned technologies

The AUS&R exhibition near Tel Aviv featured a display of unmanned technologies, highlighting their increasing role in military strategy and battlefield planning. A senior IDF official emphasized the importance of unmanned solutions in addressing emerging threats. Among the showcased technologies was the Rambow, an autonomous electric vehicle by Meteor Aerospace, designed for various ground roles.

Israeli Navy diving unit ponders upgrades

The Israeli Navy's 'Yaltam' diving unit is seeking to enhance its deep-water capabilities and upgrade its specialized equipment. The unit is known for its covert operations, which include a variety of underwater tasks such as installing sensitive detection systems and engaging surface targets. They currently use a unique diving chamber that allows divers to conduct missions at depths of up to 100 meters, with one diver able to work outside the chamber within a 25-meter range. This equipment not only facilitates deep-water operations but also extends the range of their activities.

ISDEF 2017: Sa'ar 6 to get additional C-Dome

The Israel navy is in the process of finalizing the design of the Sa'ar 6 corvettes, which are being constructed in Germany. These ships are being designed to include an additional Iron Dome defense system. The Sa'ar 6 corvettes will have a displacement of 2,000 tons and will be equipped with various weaponry, including an Oto Melara 76mm main gun, Typhoon weapon stations, a vertical launch system for Barak-8 missiles, and a marinised version of the Iron Dome system, known as C Dome. The project is a joint effort between German Naval Yards Holdings and ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). A high-ranking naval officer discussed the enhancements due to perceived threats, but the article does not detail what those threats are.