Paris Air Show Photo Report – Unmanned Systems

Piaggio Aero Industries unveiled at the 2013 Paris Air Show today, the Piaggio Aero P.1HH “HammerHead”- Unmanned Aerial System (UAS). The P.1HH HammerHead technological demonstrator was designed and built in less than one year and it has already successfully completed low speed taxi tests.

All photos: Noam Eshel, defense-Update

nEUROn UCAV, sheltered from the pouring rain in its styled protective bubble at the 50th Paris Air Show. Photo: Dassault

Elbit Systems’ Hermes 900 MALE drone was displayed here carrying a number of payloads, including the Skyfix SIGINT pod, the AMPS long-range VISINT payload and Gabbiano maritime search radar from Selex ES (below).

The Gabbiano maritime search radar from Selex ES was displayed with Elbit Systems’ Hermes 900, where it is used with the Maritime hermes 900 system.

A surveillance UAS designed by SI Schweitzer for a variety of industrial, geographical and infrastructure monitoring missions.

The EBEE Sensfly micro-drone developed byParrot, is designed to collect aerial photography of 1-10km2 in a single flight, at down to 5cm precision. eBee has a flight time of up to 45 minutes, allowing to cover such areas in a single flight.

ThunderB from Israel’s Bluebird Aero Systems can stay on a mission for 24 hours, carrying the Controp S-STAMP payload.

Falco EVO (Evolution) from Selex ES is aimed at expanding the spectrum of tactical missions the Falco unmanned air system can carry out.

Eight AR.Drone quadcopter robots performing an impressive ‘robodance’ show at the Paris Airshow

The new ELK3075 HFDF sensor from IAI Elta.

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Paris Airshow Review – Photo Report

Sukhou Su-35C streaking through the Paris sky on its international debut

All photos: Noam Eshel, defense-Update

The Russian Su-35S, making its international debut here at the Paris Airshow, stole the show with breathtaking aerobatic performance that would compete with the best stunt pilots flying aerobatic planes.

The Russian fighter, equipped with 3D thrust vectored nozzles, and a new integrated flight and propulsion system showed here some maneuvers that no other fighter can dare do. The famous ‘Cobra’ dynamic deceleration is now enhanced with low-airspeed turn, and flat spins, inverted and upright, under full control.

Why the Su-35S need these maneuvers, that would bleed airspeed dramatically to make the aircraft a ‘sitting duck’ in air combat? According to Bill Sweetman, Editor of Aviation Week DTE, the use of unpredictable flight paths could challenge guidance algorithms of any missile guidance system, and rapid nose pointing can permit a short range missile launch with greater kill probability. On the other hand, supporters of 5th generation stealth fighters would argue that the close-in dogfight belong to the past, and in modern and future wars, air combat engagements will be won from standoff positions, using network-centric battle planning by stealth fighters that attack without being detected.

Yakovlev Yak-130 from Irkut, Russi

Another new sight here was the Yakovlev Yak-130 from Irkut, Russia. This advanced trainer was selected to become the future trainer of the Russian Air Force, initial deliveries have already been made by Irkut. Its remote cousin M346 fom Alenia will also become the trainer of choice for the Italian, Israeli and Singapore air forces.

Kamov Ka-52 Alligator attack helicopter

Alenia also displayed here the MC-27J transport fitted as a flying gunship. The aircraft is equipped with a weapons kit integrated by ATK including multispectral sensor suite, synthetic aperture radar and moving ground target indicator (SAR/GMTI), palletized precision launched from he rear ramp and side-firing 40mm automatic cannon.

Flying low and slow, these gunships would require effective protection against heat seeking man-portable anti-aircraft air defense missiles (MANPADS), such systems were on display by Selex ES and Elbit Systems.

In the unmanned systems domain, the Paris Airshow 2013 provided an insight to a number of promising systems, many of them from Israel, and the USA. The General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper (Predator B) recently ordered by France was displayed here. Among the Israeli drones on display were two of the proven Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drones, the IAI Heron I, in service with the air forces of France and Germany, and the Hermes 900 from Elbit Systems, which, since it debut in 2009 has been selected by five international customers.

Another drone unveiled here was the ThunderB from BlueBird Aero Systems, carrying the multi-sensor payload S-STAMP, on mission up to 24 hours in endurance.

Among the Counter Insurgency (COIN) aircraft designed for Irregular warfare, several companies displayed aircraft, Embraer showing he Brazilian A-29 Super Tucano, Hawker Beechcraft showing the AT-6, and Archangel displaying the Air Tractor loaded with different types of air/ground weapons.

ThunderB from BlueBird Aero Systems, carrying the multi-sensor payload S-STAMP, on mission up to 24 hours in endurance

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Aero India 2013 Photo Report

1L121E mobile 3D radar covers full hemisphere, with on-the-move surveillance, detecting a wide range of threats including guided weapons and mini-uavs. This new radar supports air defense assets. Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

The Indian Air Force First Embraer 145 AEW&C Aircraft. Credit: Angad Singh

The U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster landing at Aero India 2013. Credit: Angad Singh

The attack version of indigenously-built Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) ‘Rudra’. Credit: Angad Singh

A model of the Brahmos 2 hypersonic missile was displayed on the Brahmos stand. Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

The specially modified Su-30MKI will carry a single air-launched BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missile, and two subsonic two Kh-59. The different weapons could be launched from different ranges at different times to coordinate a ripple-effect, saturate the target defenses. Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

EL/M-2052 showing the two module architecture of the new system, designed to fit into compact spaces like the LCA nose cone. Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

EL/M2052 AESA radar to be integrated in the LCA. Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Aero-india was the world debut for the Iron Dome missile – the real thing, just unarmed and defuelled. The photo clearly shows the ogive that blows off when the missiles nears its target, exposing the seeker that is responsible for the missile’s terminal effect that has demonstrated over 500 kills in recent months. Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

The Tejas LCA shown with Derby and Python 5 missiles for the first time. Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Mobile version of the Iron Dome can cover a wider area and rapidly reposition against new threats. Provided with a full multimission radar, it can also perform air defense missions. Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

SA-17 BUK-M2E air defense missile system. Note the EO/IR camera above the main radar, providing the system continuity of engagement even under heavy electronic attack. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

The Rafale on a display pass. Credit: Angad Singh

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Spitfire, F-35A in a Rare Photo Op

Along with the extensive testing of the growing F-35 fleet at Edwards AFB and elsewhere, the United Kingdom Lightning II Test and Evaluation Squadron at Edwards AFB found time to celebrate their own “Battle of Britain Night”. This event brought the F-35 Lightning II together with the World War II era Spitfire from the Commemorative Air Force display team which joined the celebration. The attached gallery shows some pictures taken on September 14, 2012 on this unique celebration.

The Supermarine Mark XiV Spitfire, (N749DP). The aircraft was restored by the Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing, Camarillo, Calif.

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Eurosatory 2012 Photo Report & Dynamic Demonstration

Thales has developed a new version of the Australian Assault Rifle designated F88 Enhanced. About half a kg lighter than the current F88. It has 3 picatinny rails, lighter materials and a lighter barrel. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Thales unveiled the F90 today at Eurosatory 2012. This export oriented assault rifle weighs only 3.25 kg,at 700 mm length and 407 mm long barrel, it is claimed to be the shortest in the market. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Hercule exoskeleton robot is designed to assists humans in lifting heavy loads. I uses mechatronic legs to walk about 20km on batteries each arm can lift 20 kg – this soldier is lifting 16 kg at ease. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

a different view of Hercule. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Rheinmetall HX2 protected cab, employing the new ADS in a low visibility configuration. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

When the cover is removed, the full-featured ADS can be seen. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

An 4×4 configuration of the RG35. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

the Multi Purpose Combat Vehicle – MPCV modified to carry MMP missiles and Mistrals. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Another photo of the MPCV. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Rafael 30mm turret system on Piranha 3. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Milicam30 sensor was developed to detect human presence behind walls or under debries. It can also detect objects inside walls or screen passengers or baggage at airport security checks. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

IMI is on contract to deliver rocket systems worth several hundred million dollars – to foreign customers and, most likely to the Israel Defense Forces. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

COBRA Mk2 Tactical Robot for Route Clearing Missions. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

The Observer ISTAR command and control system is employed a RSTA technology demonstrator vehicle developed by Thales. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

This Tigr vehicle carries two missile firing units, each loaded with four KORNET-EM missiles. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Marder Armored Vehicles Family Upgrade. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Marder Upgraded APC. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Leopard 2 A6M CAN. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Leoprad 2 A6 CAN Counter RPG. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Infotron IT180 Mini-Drone. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Horus fired from a tube. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

C4i Node. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Aravis with a new slat cage. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Antares Hemispherical Camera. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

The BMP-T represents a unique Russian concept that evolved from the Second Chechnian campaign. This massive vehicle carries multiple and redundant weapons, facilitating reliable and dependable direct-fire support at all combat ranges. The weapon suite shown here include two 30mm 2A42 automatic cannons, two 30mm grenade launchers, one 7.62mm machine gun and four Ataka-T missiles.  BMP-T can be based on T-72 or T-90 hulls, thus maintaining mobility with the armored fore.

BMP-T on display at Eurpsatory 2012. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Another angle of the BMP-T. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

The Russian company Uralvagonzavod is displaying two of its most advanced armored fighting vehicles: the newly upgraded T-90S and BMP-Tank (Terminator). This is the first time the T-90S is displayed in the west, coming few months after the official debut at the 2011 Nizhny Tagil expo. As the Russian is one of only few tanks currently in production, Russia hoping the new upgrade will pave the way for T-90 sales in international markets, since the T-90 which was expected to follow the success of the T-72 hasn’t delivered equivalent sales sofar.

The Newly Upgraded T-90S. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Rear view of the T-90S. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Ural is showing the Saturn, a protected 6×6 version of the military truck.

Thales Rapidfire Debut at Eurosatory 2012. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Panhard unveils the CRAB (Combat and Recce Armored Buggy). Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Amarok M, a new pickup truck from Rheinmetall Defence. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Rheinmetall Defence Introduces an Off-Road Pickup Truck

Amarok M, a new pickup truck from Rheinmetall Defence combines good cross-country mobility with comfort and road safety of conventional pickup trucks.Its maximum road speed is 182 km/h. The vehicle is available with 90 to 132 kW engines, and manual or automatic transmission (6 or 8 gears). It has all-wheel drive and off-road ABS and ESP, contributing to high off-road and on-road performance. The vehicle uses a ladder frame with standardized mounting points to make subsequent assembly easier. Amarok M can carry 1.259 ton payload with a double cab or 1.396 tons with a single cab. The vehicle can ford water obstacle 500 mm deep and travel a side slope of 50 degrees.

IMI’s Bright Arrow on a Renault Sherpa. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Renault Trucks Defense’ Sherpa Displays IMI’s Active protection Systems

Renault is displaying at Eurosatory 2012 an armored Sherpa equipped with IMI’s Bright Arrow. The system depicts a new configuration for the IMI active protection system, featuring the redesigned PSR-10 APS radar from Rada, integrated with a stereoscopic IR sensor, both feed target data to the Bright Arrow mounted on the vehicle’s roof. The launcher also carries a laser countermeasure device, employed as a ‘soft kill’ active countermeasure against guided missiles fired at the vehicle.

IMI’s Bright Arrow Soft kill. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Renault Trucks Defense (RTD) is displaying at Eurosatory the VAB Ultima, a highly protected 4×4 version of the armored personnel carrier in service with the French Army for several decades. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

While the French Army has opted to modernize its 4×4 VABs with the Ultima model, Renault is offering the VAB Mk3 upgraded model of the 6×6 VAB to export customers. At a gross vehicle weight of 20 tons the VAB Mk3 can carry up to 7.5 tons of payload. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

The Eurosatory 2012 dynamic demonstration is highlighting situations depicting ‘real life’ scenarios, from asymmetric combat, to law enforcement, crowd dispersal to dealing with hazardous materials and chemical or biological threats. The systems on display include armored vehicles of various types, including the French Renault Trucks Defence VAB 4×4 and American M-ATV armored ambulance from Oshkosh defense. Two types of unmanned vehicles were demonstrated in flight – the IT180 mini-drone from Infotron and HoverEye EX developed by Bertin. The demonstration also featured dynamic displays of several bridging solutions, these will be covered at a later stage.

Tactical ATV, Eurosatory 2012 Dynamic Demonstration. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

M-ATV Tactical Ambulance. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

HoverEye EX with Controp’s M-STAMP Payload. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

Infotron IT180 Mini-Drone. Photo: Tamir Eshel, Defense-Update

The full edition of Eurosatory Show Live is available for only 4.95 Euros. We recommend you download it and keep it accessible throughout the show on your mobile phone.

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AUVSI 2012 Photo Report

AUVSI Israel 2012 opened in Tel Aviv today, gathering over 500 participants, 43 exhibitors and an impressive roster of speakers and presenters from across all industry and military branches. Among the highlights of today’s presentations were the head of Directorate of defense Research and Development (DDR&D), RADM Ophir Shoham presenting the roadmap for Israel’s UVS developments, and guest speakers Charles E. Thorpe, from the White House Office of Science and Technology policy, and Maj,. Mark Whittle, from the british Army, that provided the perspectives from the U.S. and U.K.

Members of the IDF land, air and naval forces highlighting the three services priorities and directions. In the exhibit halls, a number of new systems were displayed for the first time, some are depicted in the following photo report. A more detailed review on some of the systems will follow soon.

UVision Wasp Mini UAV. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

Innocon MicroFalcon UAV. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

Steadycopter Black Eagle 50 – a Lightweight Unmanned Helicopter. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

IAI REX – Autonomous Infantry Support Vehicle. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

AUVSI 2012 International debut: Rafael Mini Spike launcher and compact operator module. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

Rafael Mini-Spike Kit – six missiles carried by two team members. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

Rafael Mini Spike was shown in a slightly improved configuration. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

AUVSI 2012 International debut: VisionMap MIST – High resolution UAV camera for wide area surveillance & mapping applications. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

Read our review

IAI Mini Panther UAV. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

Controp LDP – Laser Designator Payload. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

AUVSI 2012 International Debut: SkySapience HoverMast Autonomous Hovering Platform. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

IAI Ghost- Rotary Mini UAV System. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

IAI ETOP – Tethered Hovering Surveillance Platform. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

IAI ELM-2054 Lightweight Airborne SAR/GMTI Payload. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

Controp D-Stamp HD UAV Payload. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

UVision Blade Arrow – Precision Attack Munition (PAM). Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

Amstaf UGV with Rafael Typhoon RWS. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense Update

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Aero India Photo Review

Aero India 2011 Photo Gallery, All Photos Credit: Indian MoD

The French Rafale makes a fiery take off

Massive Crowds Gathering the 4th day of Aero India 2011

Surya Kiran team of IAF received thundering applause as they painted the sky with the United Colours of India.

The JAS 39 Gripen of Sweden makes a dramatic take off

Photo: Indian MOD

The 8th edition of Aero-India ended today ( 13 Feb 2011) with record breaking crowd thronging the Yelahanka airbase station to have a glimpse of the breath taking aerobatics by metal birds from many parts of the world.

A C-130J TAKING OFF DURING AEROINDIA ON SATURDAY, FEB.13, 2011.

AN LCA TEJAS PERFORMING AT AEROINDIA ON SATURDAY, FEB.13, 2011.

IAF SURYA KIRANS PERFORMING AT AEROINDIA ON SATURDAY, FEB.13, 2011.

A DASSAULT RAFAEL PERFORMING AT AEROINDIA ON SATURDAY, FEB.13, 2011.

THE IJT PERFORMING AT AEROINDIA ON SATURDAY, FEB.13, 2011.

AN F-18 PARKED ON THE TARMAC DURING AEROINDIA ON SATURDAY, FEB.13, 2011.

AN F-18 PERFORMING AT AEROINDIA ON SATURDAY, FEB.13, 2011.

AN F-16 RARING TO GO DURING AEROINDIA ON SATURDAY, FEB.13, 2011.

A FIGHTER JET PERFORMING AEROBATICS DURING THE AERO INDIA ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2011.

AN IAF SUKHOI SU-30 PREPARING TO LAND AT THE AERO INDIA ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2011.

A FIGHTER JET PERFORMING AEROBATICS DURING THE AERO INDIA ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2011.

ARMY SOLDIERS SLITHERING FROM AN INDIAN ARMY ALH DHRUV HELICOPTER DURING THE AERO INDIA ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2011.

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