BAE Systems UK

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New autonomous underwater demonstrator to be launched next year


BAE Systems has announced a collaboration with Cellula Robotics to showcase the capabilities of its new Extra Large Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (XLAUV), known as Herne, on a technology demonstrator in the water in the second half of 2024.


Recent acts of sub-sea aggression highlight the strategic importance of the underwater domain, the need to protect the critical national infrastructure within it and the inherent challenges. Autonomous platforms, like Herne, could have a role in helping militaries overcome the challenge that the vast expanses of the underwater battlespace present, enabling them to monitor much larger areas without the limitations of a human crew and in a far more cost-effective way.


Herne will provide a capability built on BAE Systems’ deep understanding of its military customers to deliver the persistence and flexibility needed for the future. Its adaptable design will allow the platform to be configured to conduct operations including: anti-submarine warfare; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; and electronic warfare.


The demonstrator project, will test the ‘brains’ of the BAE Systems military XLAUV on one of Cellula Robotics’ underwater vehicles in trials set to take place next year at a facility on the south coast of England.


"This will be the first time any UK company will have tested its advanced autonomous capabilities in this area and I am excited to be working with Cellula Robotics. My aim is to create a capability that is faster, more capable, more flexible, cheaper for customers to buy and provides navies with a way to protect critical national infrastructure." Scott Jamieson, Managing Director of Maritime Services at BAE Systems


"As we embark on this ground-breaking partnership with BAE Systems, we recognize the critical role autonomous platforms play in addressing the evolving challenges of the underwater domain. Recent sub-sea aggression incidents underscore the importance of safeguarding our underwater critical infrastructure. We are thrilled to collaborate with BAE Systems and look forward to the demonstration, setting the course for a future of enhanced underwater security and intelligence." Eric Jackson, President at Cellula Robotics Ltd

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/new-autonomous-underwater-demonstrator-to-be-launched-next-year

 

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BAE SYSTEMS AND L3HARRIS DELIVER FIRST EC-37B COMPASS CALL AIRCRAFT TO THE US AIR FORCE​

BAE Systems and L3Harris Technologies delivered the first of 10 EC-37B Compass Call aircraft to the U.S. Air Force for formal combined developmental and operational testing. The next-generation system evolves the Air Force’s 40-year mission of employing electromagnetic attack (EA) capabilities in support of U.S. and coalition air, surface, and special operations forces.


Mission system prime BAE Systems produces the Compass Call Airborne Electromagnetic Attack mission system at its Hudson, New Hampshire facility. The system disrupts enemy communications, radars and navigation systems, and suppresses enemy air defenses by preventing the transmission of essential information between adversaries, weapon systems and command-and-control networks.


Platform integration prime L3Harris integrated the EC-130H Compass Call mission system into a modern Gulfstream G550 business jet at its Waco, Texas aircraft missionization center. The EC-37B has increased speed, endurance and high-altitude operation for improved survivability and range to deliver EA effects.


“The delivery of the first EC-37B Compass Call is a major milestone for our customer’s electromagnetic attack capabilities,” said Dave Harrold, Vice President and General Manager, Countermeasure & Electromagnetic Attack, BAE Systems. “We take pride in delivering this critical EW capability to keep the U.S. at the vanguard for defense and deterrence.”


“Our team accomplished the incredible challenge of migrating the Compass Call mission equipment from the much larger EC-130H and fully integrating it into the Gulfstream G550 platform,” said Jason Lambert, President, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, L3Harris. “As the Air Force sunsets its 40-year-old EC-130H fleet, the cutting-edge EC-37B will empower the customer to continue serving its vital electromagnetic warfare mission for generations to come.”

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-and-l3harris-deliver-first-ec-37b-compass-call-aircraft-to-the-u-s--air-force

 

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Royal Air Force invests in BAE Systems' most advanced fighter pilot helmet


The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has awarded BAE Systems a contract to develop its Striker II Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) for the Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon fleet.


Developed at BAE Systems in Rochester, Kent, Striker II is one of the world’s most advanced fighter helmets which uses the latest technologies to integrate its all-digital night vision system and daylight readable colour display. Striker II displays data directly onto the pilot’s helmet visor, providing an augmented reality of the real world alongside mission critical information right before their eyes.


Under the new contract, BAE Systems engineers are maturing the helmet’s capability ahead of the start of initial production to support qualification and integration flight-testing at BAE Systems’ combat air site in Warton, Lancashire.


"Striker II will provide the RAF’s Typhoon pilots with a crucial advantage – offering unrivalled situational awareness from the cockpit while helping to avoid sensory overload, which is vital in a high-tech and fast-paced environment. This contract will enable our electronics and combat air experts to work together to develop the helmet to further enhance the critical role Typhoon pilots play in round-the-clock defence and security of our nation."Andrea Thompson, Managing Director – Europe & International, BAE Systems’ Air Sector,


"Striker II helmets boast cutting-edge displays of data and are adaptable to the increasing demands of battlespaces. This investment will support the development of state-of-the-art equipment for future aviators, whilst also backing hundreds of highly-skilled jobs."James Cartlidge, Minister for Defence Procurement

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/raf-invests-in-bae-systems-most-advanced-fighter-pilot-helmet

 

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Sweden awards BAE Systems $500 million contract for additional 48 ARCHER artillery systems


New contract establishes ARCHER as one of the world’s leading wheeled artillery systems

BAE Systems signed a contract with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) worth approximately $500 million for 48 new ARCHER artillery systems for the Swedish Army.


The ARCHERmobile artillery system, designed and produced by BAE Systems Bofors in Sweden, is already in service in the Swedish Army and has achieved the highest technical and manufacturing readiness levels. The 48 new systems covered by this contract will be built on a Rheinmetall MAN military vehicle, RMMV HX2 8x8, and first delivery to the Swedish Army will be in 2025.


“This important milestone establishes ARCHER as the basis of the Swedish Army’s new divisional artillery forces,” said Lena Gillström, president of BAE Systems Bofors. “It is also critical to BAE Systems Bofors’ work in jointly developing the ARCHER with Sweden, to confirm it as the most advanced wheeled 155mm howitzer in operation today.”


ARCHER can fire the BONUS anti-armor munition up to 35km, conventional munitions up to 40km, and the precision-guided munition Excalibur in excess of 50km. The automated magazines can hold a mix of different ammunition types and modular charges needed to support any mission.


In addition to the Swedish Army, the United Kingdom has selected the ARCHER for its interim artillery requirement. Sweden has also donated ARCHER to Ukraine, and the system has been down-selected in Switzerland’s procurement of new artillery.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/sweden-awards-bae-systems-contract-for-additional-48-archer-artillery-systems

 

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FalconWorks® - BAE Systems’ new combat air research facility celebrates major milestones two months since launchü


BAE Systems’ FalconWorks division and leading sustainable aircraft technology developer, Hybrid Air Vehicles, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore new ways of communicating and gathering intelligence.


Earlier this week at DSEI, the team at FalconWorks also announced a new framework agreement with QinetiQ, which will see both parties collaborate on autonomous Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS) and mission management systems.


UAVTEK Limited, a UK specialist in the manufacture of small UAS, also teamed up with FalconWorks this week, signing a Memorandum of Collaboration to explore leveraging its complementary UAS technologies.


This follows FalconWorks’ celebration in recent weeks of the first stratospheric flight of PHASA-35, BAE Systems’ High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) UAS. This milestone has advanced the Company’s understanding of the science and climatological conditions required to make operations in the stratosphere possible and repeatable.


Launched in July, FalconWorks is a new unit within BAE Systems’ Air Sector focusing on advanced and agile research and development into cutting-edge combat air capabilities. It was formed in response to the increasing pace of technological change and evolving threat environment facing military customers around the world.


The business supports major programmes such as Typhoon and Tempest and also collaborates with SMEs and academia to deliver rapid concepting of new products and services, which air force customers need to maintain their edge.


"Defending our freedom is becoming ever more unpredictable – the only constant is change. The creation of FalconWorks is a reflection of the changing environment and our goal to ensure innovative technology development is at the core of everything we do. This new division builds on our established expertise in world-leading combat air programmes such as Typhoon, F-35 and Tempest to unlock opportunities to expand our portfolio and deliver the breakthrough technologies which keep our customers ahead."Dave Holmes, Managing Director of FalconWorks, BAE Systems’ Air Sector.


The arrangement with QinetiQ will explore the potential to collaborate and develop a family of UAS, managed by a FalconWorks developed common goal-based autonomous mission management system, which will be interoperable with existing and future crewed and uncrewed systems, enabling militaries to generate operational effects and providing a concentration of combat air power.


The MoU with Hybrid Air Vehicles will see FalconWorks explore the potential defence and security applications of its ultra-low emissions aircraft, Airlander, which has the ability to operate from any reasonably flat surface and the potential to stay airborne for up to five days while fitted with up to ten tonnes of computing, communications, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.


BAE Systems’ agreement with UAVTEK will focus on exploring how to maximise the parties’ capabilities in the micro UAS market, initially around the nano Bug UAS, and the potential defence and security applications of the technology.


BAE Systems is at the heart of the UK’s sovereign combat air capability, delivering combat air readiness to air force customers around the world. FalconWorks will be a vital part of BAE Systems, exploring market opportunities in the UK and international air sector.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/falconworks-bae-systems-new-combat-air-research-facility-celebrates-major-milestones-two-months-since-launch

 

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BAE Systems introduces enhanced features for TWV640 thermal camera core

BAE Systems has unveiled enhanced capabilities for its TWV640 thermal camera core, designed for makers of thermal imaging solutions for defense, space, and commercial markets. The technology is used in security and surveillance, firefighting vision systems, automotive cameras, and more.


The TWV640 is powered by BAE Systems’ Athena™ 640 focal plane array, an uncooled long wave infrared microbolometer. The upgraded features include:

• Contrast enhancement to provide improved imagery detail;

• Patent-pending spotlight mode to enable a picture-in-picture style image through a customizable region of contrast enhancements that do not degrade the sharpness of the image in the remainder of the frame;

• Field pixel kill to automatically substitute degraded pixels, making them virtually undetectable;

• And Improved Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference (NETD) to more accurately identify objects and threats within a scene, particularly within degraded environments and/or at longer ranges.

The combination of these four improvements allows for a more flexible and customizable image. The thermal camera core enables the ability to pick out threats at a long distance that are only a few pixels large.


The technology captures clear, complete images with lower temporal noise in the most visually challenging conditions including heavy fog, smoke, dust, haze, and darkness. This is invaluable to a broad range of applications for security, firefighting, targeting, thermography, and more.


“By further enhancing our imaging technology, we are continuing to provide our customers in the U.S. and abroad the superior imagery and customizable features they expect from BAE Systems,” said Robyn Decker, director of Sensor Solutions at BAE Systems.


TWV640—a 640X480 thermal camera core—was the first commercially available, uncooled thermal camera core on the market using 12-micron pixels, versus the standard 17-micron focal plane which can reduce optics sizes by 50% and decrease optics cost by 20%.


BAE Systems’ Athena product line of high performance thermal camera cores is renowned for customizable settings, a software development kit, graphic user interface and display drivers, making it easy to configure based on mission needs.


The TWV640 is produced at BAE Systems’ state-of-the-art facility in Austin, Texas.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-introduces-enhanced-features-for-twv640-thermal-camera-core

 

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BAE Systems and Larsen & Toubro team up to bring BvS10 all-terrain vehicle to India under the “Make in India” programme

The BvS10 will participate in Indian Army trials starting in September

BAE Systems and Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) have partnered to bring the world-leading all-terrain vehicle, the BvS10, to the Indian market. The two companies have signed a licensing and manufacturing agreement to offer the BvS10 for the Articulated All-Terrain Vehicle (AATV) for the Indian Armed Forces.


Under the agreement, L&T is the prime for the Indian market, with the support of BAE Systems Hägglunds, the Swedish manufacturer of the highly-successful BvS10 family of vehicles. BAE Systems and L&T have upgraded the BvS10 to meet the specific requirements of the Indian Armed Forces. This new variant will be known as the BvS10-Sindhu. The AATV programme aims to deliver vehicles from L&T’s Armoured Systems Complex, along with integrated logistic support (ILS).


“Our BvS10 all-terrain vehicle will demonstrate the critical capabilities the Indian Army needs when it participates in the trials later this month. Unsurpassed mobility, flexibility and the ability to work in extreme climatic conditions are at the core of the BvS10 design,” said Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, managing director of BAE Systems Hägglunds. “Our teaming with Larsen & Toubro gives us the opportunity to expand into the Indo-Pacific market.”


Larsen & Toubro sees this opportunity as an impetus for L&T’s Armoured Systems business to build on the aegis of a strong manufacturing and design base coupled with the experience of BAE Systems. “L&T and BAE Systems’ tie-up synergizes our strengths to provide a solution to meet the expectations of the Indian Army,” said Mr. Arun Ramchandani, Executive Vice President & Head L&T Defence. “The BvS10-Sindhu is the ideal vehicle for the extremely challenging terrain and climatic conditions in which it is proposed to be deployed.”


The BvS10 vehicle on display at DSEI in London this week features a Mobile Short Range Air Defense system (MSHORAD) configuration. This demonstrates the versatility of the vehicle, evolving into a modular fighting vehicle which can carry a broad array of payloads addressing almost any threat in the modern operating environment without impacting the under-armor volume.


The BvS10’s articulated mobility, provides optimal maneuverability across varying terrains including snow, ice, rock, sand, mud, swamps, and steep mountain environments. The vehicle’s amphibious features also allow it to swim in flooded areas or coastal waters. It can deliver personnel and supplies as well as mounted lethality to address any threat in the modern operating environment.


The modular design allows the BvS10 to be reconfigured for varying missions. It can be delivered in multiple variants that include transporting personnel, command and control, ambulance service, vehicle repair and recovery, logistics support, situational awareness, as well as vehicle mounted lethality and support weapons.


The vehicle is currently in service in Austria, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom. It is also on order for the German Army. BAE Systems’ Beowulf, the unarmored variant of the BvS10, won the U.S. Army’s competition for its Cold Weather All-Terrain Vehicle (CATV) program in August. The U.S. Army will receive 110 vehicles over a five-year period.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-and-larsen-toubro-team-up-to-bring-bvs10-all-terrain-vehicle-to-india-under-the-make-in-india-programme

 

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Keeping F-22 Raptor electronic warfare mission systems ready and relevant


Sustaining complex, high-performance EW systems to maintain U.S. air dominance


BAE Systems has received a five-year contract from Lockheed Martin to sustain the AN/ALR-94 advanced digital electronic warfare (EW) system for the F-22 Raptor. Under the contract, BAE Systems will continue to manage EW system repairs and upgrades, supplier logistics, test equipment maintenance, and provide depot-level spares and engineering support to maintain F-22 EW readiness and relevancy for today’s air dominance mission.


As the original manufacturer of the complex AN/ALR-94 EW system, BAE Systems has provided life cycle management of the system since the program’s inception. In collaboration with Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force, BAE Systems delivers innovative, cost-effective EW mission system support, enabling the F-22 warfighter to execute critical missions in contested airspace.


“At BAE Systems, we are committed to delivering mission-critical capability to the warfighter when they need it most,” said Dan Harrington, director of F-22 Programs at BAE Systems. “We’re investing in sustainment excellence to keep Raptors and other platforms ready to engage modern threats and outpace our adversaries.”


BAE Systems’ proactive sustainment practices have consistently delivered high readiness rates and reduced life cycle costs. Recent investments in a new state-of-the-art F-22 repair facility in Merrimack, New Hampshire demonstrate the company’s commitment to agile, cost-effective sustainment support.


The F-22 Raptor projects fifth-generation air dominance with a unique combination of long-range situational awareness, low observability, speed, agility, and lethality. The high-performance AN/ALR-94 system protects the Raptor with integrated radar warning, targeting support, and countermeasures – providing enhanced situational awareness and self-protection. The system helps pilots identify, monitor, analyze, and rapidly respond to potential threats, and enables mission success in signal-dense and contested environments.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-to-keep-f-22-raptor-electronic-warfare-mission-systems-ready-and-relevant

 

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T-600 electric uncrewed demonstrator aircraft achieves significant milestone at NATO exercise


BAE Systems and Malloy Aeronautics have demonstrated the capabilities of the T-600 heavy lift uncrewed air system (UAS) during a large NATO exercise in Portugal to integrate the very latest maritime technologies across allied forces.


The T-600 is an electric-powered demonstrator aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing, can carry a payload of 200kg and can travel at up to 140km/h. It also has a range of up to 80km depending on payload. It is around the size of a small car and is designed to be easily disassembled for transportation. During the multinational exercise, the demonstrator successfully released an inert Sting Ray training variant anti-submarine torpedo during a flight mission at sea for the first time.


The exercise known as REPMUS (Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping with Maritime Uncrewed Systems) involved 15 NATO partners, along with Ireland and Sweden. It provides a safe and controlled area to test concepts, requirements, new and advancing technologies in respect of Maritime Uncrewed Systems.


The T-600 demonstrator is designed to develop, validate and display technologies which may be applied to the T-650, a completely new design of an all-electric heavy lift UAS which will offer rapid reconfiguration capabilities applicable to military, commercial and humanitarian uses. The T-650 will provide significant capabilities in the areas of automated logistics and resupply, casualty evacuation and anti-submarine warfare whilst reducing the environmental impact of our armed forces.


"In just two years since we launched our collaboration with Malloy, we’ve developed a heavy lift UAS and working with the UK Royal Navy and Portuguese Navy, have taken part in the latest NATO REPMUS exercise. The demonstration showcased the capability of our T-600 technology demonstrator, carrying an inert Sting Ray torpedo in front of the world’s premier naval forces. It’s a fantastic achievement in our collaboration with Malloy and a sign of our joint ambitions to bring new capabilities to our customers.”Neil Appleton, Head of Sustainable Electric Products, BAE Systems Air


Dave Quick, Head of Underwater Weapons, BAE Systems Maritime Servies said:"Our development of Sting Ray Mod 2 is focussed not only on weapon effectiveness once deployed but also in increasing the ways in which Sting Ray can be deployed. As part of this we are extending the breadth of platform interfaces supported, and are maturing new torpedo deployment mechanisms, including drones, to explore the operational benefits to Anti-Submarine Warfare and or Anti-Torpedo defence."


"Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) can be quick to launch and easy to carry. They represent another opportunity to keep higher cost assets and their crew out of harm’s way and will have an increasing ASW role alongside crewed helicopters and dedicated ASW surface vessels. UAS launched Sting Ray would enable torpedo capability to be carried by a variety of naval platforms, providing increased operational flexibility for the use of Sting Ray."Dave Quick, Head of Underwater Weapons, BAE Systems Maritime Services


"At Malloy Aeronautics, we are committed to turning concept ideas into real capabilities fast. Our smaller T-150 UAS have been tested and operated for years by the UK MoD and US DoD, but the T-600 has gone from concept to operational demonstrator in record time for a vehicle in this payload class. The collaborative success seen at REPMUS adds to the list of promising capabilities being tested with this platform (last-mile resupply and CASEVAC), and proves that modular, multi-mission UAS can reduce the logistics burden and increase operational tempo at a fraction of the cost."Oriol Badia, CEO of Malloy Aeronautics


The T-650 programme sits within FalconWorks, a new centre for advanced and agile research and development within BAE Systems’ Air sector, designed to deliver a range of cutting-edge combat air capabilities to the UK and its allies.


The demonstration at REPMUS is the result of the engineering expertise of the BAE Systems Air sector and Maritime Services collaborating to find new and novel ways to combine emerging technologies, alongside Malloy Aeronautics, L3 Harris and General Dynamics UK, who were all partners in the demonstration.


L3Harris and General Dynamics UK have both supported the demonstration as part of a multi-organisational partnership by providing the GnatHD carriage and release system and Distributed Stores Management control system respectively. These advancements in technology have further unlocked the possibility of weapons integration on heavy-lift UAS.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/t-600-electric-uncrewed-demonstrator-aircraft-achieves-significant-milestone-at-nato-exercise

 

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£3.95bn awarded for next phase of AUKUS submarine programme


The Ministry of Defence has awarded £3.95 billion of funding to BAE Systems for the next phase of the UK's next-generation nuclear-powered attack submarine programme, known as SSN-AUKUS.


SSN-AUKUS will be the largest, most powerful and advanced attack submarines the Royal Navy has ever operated and will eventually replace the Astute class, which BAE Systems builds at its site in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria.


The funding follows the AUKUS announcement in March by the leaders of Australia, the UK and the United States. This will eventually see Australia and the UK operate SSN-AUKUS submarines, which will be based on the UK’s next generation design, incorporating technology from all three nations, including cutting-edge US submarine technologies.


Having started early design work in 2021, the £3.95bn funding will cover development work to 2028, enabling BAE Systems to move into the detailed design phase of the programme and begin to procure long-lead items. Manufacture will start towards the end of the decade with the first SSN-AUKUS boat due to be delivered in the late 2030s.


The award will also fund significant infrastructure investment at BAE Systems' site in Barrow-in-Furness, investment in its supply chain and recruitment of a more than 5,000 people.


"This multi-billion-pound investment in the AUKUS submarine programme will help deliver the long term hunter-killer submarine capabilities the UK needs to maintain our strategic advantage and secure our leading place in a contested global order. I’m committed to backing our defence industry, because it’s only with the mission critical support of businesses like BAE Systems that the UK can develop the advanced equipment our Armed Forces need to defend the British people in a more dangerous world."Grant Shapps, Defence Secretary


"We’re incredibly proud of our role in the delivery of this vitally important, tri-nation submarine programme. This funding reinforces the Government’s support to our UK submarine enterprise and allows us to mature the design, and invest in critical skills and infrastructure to support our long-term national security."Charles Woodburn, BAE Systems’ Chief Executive


BAE Systems has already delivered five of seven Astute class submarines to the Royal Navy with the remaining two boats at advanced stages of construction. The Company is also designing and building the UK's next-generation nuclear deterrent submarines, Dreadnought, with work underway on three of the four new boats.


Delivery of the UK’s submarine programmes is a national endeavour between government and industry. BAE Systems’ Submarines business plays a vital role in the UK economy, particularly in the north west of England. By the end of this year, its workforce will grow to 12,500, including around new 900 apprentices and graduates.


The business plans to recruit an additional 2,700 people next year, which will include a further 900 apprentices and graduates providing a significant employment boost for the region.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/3-95bn-awarded-for-next-phase-of-aukus-submarine-programme

 

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BAE Systems showcases Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle enhancements at AUSA clearing the way for future variants


BAE Systems is featuring a prototype variation of the Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) at AUSA 2023.

The AMPV Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (CUAS) prototype, built on the same proven chassis as the existing variants in the family of vehicles, includes External Mission Equipment Package (ExMEP) enhancements that demonstrate the rapid integration of future technologies and capabilities onto the platform.


The prototype features the new ExMEP interchangeable top plate, which enhances the proven AMPV hull structure and provides flexibility to quickly integrate other mission equipment. This modular approach allows for the possibility of new turreted variants to the AMPV family of vehicles, to include CUAS.


The CUAS prototype features the Moog Reconfigurable Integrated-weapons Platform (RIwP) turret, which is common to the U.S. Army’s Mobile Short Range Air Defense (M-SHORAD) system. The RIwP is a proven, modular, and scalable remote turret, which offers air defense, anti-armor, or multi-mission capabilities via precision medium-caliber and indirect fires. The CUAS variation also includes mission-ready command and control systems beyond what is available on the current AMPV fleet.


“The Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle truly lays the foundation of the future of the battlefield for decades to come,” said Bill Sheehy, BAE Systems AMPV program director. “We designed these vehicles with modularity and flexibility, providing an adaptable and ready-for-growth platform. Showcasing the art of the possible with the ExMEP enhancement and CUAS capability at AUSA is just the beginning of opportunities beyond the current family of vehicles. This vehicle will continue to provide the support Soldiers need in battle, no matter the mission.”


The AMPV program was awarded a full-rate production contract in August 2023. As the underpinning of the future for the Army and its allies, the AMPV provides significant improvements in power, mobility, interoperability, and survivability for Soldiers.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-showcases-armored-multi-purpose-vehicle-enhancements-at-ausa-clearing-the-way-for-future-variants

 

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BAE Systems’ advanced projectile extends range of M109 Paladin

BAE Systems, in partnership with the U.S. Army’s Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center (DEVCOM AC), fired the XM1155-SC guided projectile the furthest distance an M109 Paladin has ever fired a guided projectile.

The projectile successfully guided to and impacted the target area using GPS, demonstrating the added capability the round can deliver to the U.S. Army’s current howitzer fleet.

The test at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona was conducted using a Modular Artillery Charge System (MACS) Zone 5, proving XM1155-SC’s compatibility with current artillery systems.

“Our XM1155-SC solution adds additional capability to current and future U.S. Army artillery systems,” said Brent Butcher, vice president and general manager of Weapon Systems at BAE Systems. “We’re just getting started showing the advanced capabilities that this round brings to the warfighter. This projectile delivers a leap forward in performance and modernization. This successful firing and previous test results show that our concept is on-track to provide range and lethality overmatch to the U.S. Army brigade and division artillery units.”


In December 2022, in partnership with the U.S. Army, BAE Systems held the first XM1155-SC test fire where the projectile was successfully fired from a 155 mm XM907E2 Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA) test bed and impacted a fixed target beyond ranges previously demonstrated by other precision guided projectiles fired from the same type of cannon. The successful firing event occurred just 14 months after the company received an initial $14.8 million prototype development award in October 2021.


BAE Systems’ concept for the U.S. Army’s XM1155-SC program is an advanced, cannon-launched projectile under development for the defeat of fixed and moving targets in contested environments at more than double the range of existing cannon launched precision guided munitions. The concept was developed to penetrate and destroy adversary defenses through increased range, advanced guidance, lethality, and survivability. The projectile addresses the Army’s modernization goals for a long-range precision fires munitions solution.


BAE Systems is currently under contract to demonstrate navigation and control, networking, and payload technologies that enable precision fires at very long ranges for 155mm projectiles.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-advanced-projectile-extends-range-of-m109-paladin

 

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BAE Systems successfully tests M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer modified with 52-caliber cannon

BAE Systems successfully fired 155 millimeter projectiles from a M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer modified with the Rheinmetall L52 155mm, 52-caliber cannon.

The M109-52 is a significant, low-risk, high-performance upgrade to the current 39-caliber cannon and provides the additional range required in large-scale combat operations.


“We’ve demonstrated that the integrated system of the M109-52 is a viable solution for long-range precision fires modernization needs,” said Dan Furber, director of Ground Vehicle Production for BAE Systems’ Combat Mission Systems business. “Integrating these two highly capable and proven artillery systems provides stable designs and predictable performance.”


The test, conducted at Camp Ripley, Minnesota, proved the compatibility of the L52 cannon with the M109A7 platform during the live fire exercise. BAE Systems plans to conduct additional testing in 2024, which will highlight extended range across a variety of projectiles.


BAE Systems’ ability to integrate the proven M109 with proven cannon platforms like the L52 will quickly deliver expanded interoperability on day one with battlefield partners. The L52 artillery cannon is used by nine NATO and allied partner nations’ tactical artillery forces.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-successfully-tests-m109-self-propelled-howitzer-modified-with-52-caliber-cannon

 

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Construction of new state of the art shipbuilding facility underway in Glasgow


Construction has begun on a huge new ship build hall that will transform and enhance shipbuilding in Glasgow.


The new ship build hall at the Govan shipyard will shortly begin to take shape now that the basin has been filled and piling has begun. Measuring 170m long and 80m wide, this vast facility will be large enough for two Type 26 frigates to be constructed side-by-side.


Last November, BAE Systems secured a £4.2 billion contract with the Ministry of Defence to build five more Type 26 ships. This builds on the initial contract for the first three vessels and provides confidence to invest in the long-term future of the Glasgow site.


"We are the proud custodians of shipbuilding on the Clyde and our talented teams are working hard to build on that legacy to secure Glasgow’s status as a shipbuilding centre of excellence for generations to come. This new hall will give us some of the best facilities in the world and completely modernise our approach to shipbuilding. It, alongside the investments already under way to digitise our processes, will ensure Govan continues to be something that the city of Glasgow can be truly proud of." Simon Lister, Managing Director of Naval Ships at BAE Systems


The ship build hall is being constructed by McLaughlin and Harvey. It will consist of more than 6,000 tonnes of steel and 20,000m3 of concrete. Once complete, the hall will help enable efficient and safe shipbuilding for decades to come with future work unaffected by adverse weather. With two 100-tonne cranes and a further two 20-tonne cranes, the facility is designed to accommodate up to 500 workers per shift.


The hall is a key element of the £300m modernisation and digitalisation of BAE Systems' shipbuilding facilities at Govan and Scotstoun. Alongside a range of infrastructure and automation improvements, the Company is introducing digital technology such as tablets and kiosk screens on the shop floor to streamline processes.


The Type 26 is one of the world’s most advanced warships. It is designed for anti-submarine warfare and high-intensity air defence, but can adapt its role quickly to transport humanitarian aid and house medical facilities. Steel was cut on the fourth Type 26, HMS Birmingham, in April this year and work on the first three ships is already well under way. First-of-class HMS Glasgow is at BAE Systems’ Scotstoun shipyard having complex systems installed, HMS Cardiff is currently being assembled and HMS Belfast is in its early construction phase.


All eight frigates will be built in Govan and Scotstoun with the work sustaining approximately 1,700 jobs in Scotland with a further 2,300 jobs across the wider UK supply chain.


"The investment and construction of the New Ship Build Hall in the Govan shipyard is welcome news and will modernise shipbuilding on the river Clyde. Providing the capability to construct two Type 26 Frigates within a controlled, weathertight facility will greatly improve the working environment. Quality will also be improved, and each ship will be more materially complete before moving across to the dry dock in Scotstoun for test and acceptance. All of this will culminate in a quicker delivery of the Type 26 Frigates to the Royal Navy." Stephen Charlick, DE&S Type 26 programme Project Manager

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/construction-of-new-state-of-the-art-shipbuilding-facility-underway-in-glasgow

 

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BAE Systems to develop custom microelectronics for next-generation radar, electronic warfare, and communication applications


FAST Labs™ research and development organization awarded a $5 million contract from the Office of Naval Research
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has awarded BAE Systems’ FAST Labs research and development organization a $5 million contract for the COALESCE (Common-architecture Amplifier for Low-cost, Efficient, SWaP-Constrained Environments) program.


In this effort, BAE Systems’ FAST Labs, will develop advanced Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) and module electronics. The program’s objective is to develop the world’s highest efficiency high power amplifier module in its frequency band. The radio-frequency (RF) modules will then transition to small form factor U.S. Navy payloads, enabling longer range and greater effectiveness in active electronic warfare applications.


“The COALESCE program closes the gap between commercial electronics and customized electronics to meet the Department of Defense’s space and power requirements and enable next-generation solutions,” said Ben McMahon, technology development manager at BAE Systems’ FAST Labs. “Together with the Office of Naval Research, we will deliver these electronic solutions to increase survivability for our warfighters.”


BAE Systems will provide capabilities above and beyond what can be found commercially, and its solution is designed specifically for harsh DoD operating environments. The technology’s high power and ultra-small form factor will enable next-generation radar, electronic warfare, and communication applications.


MMICs and modules for the program will be fabricated at BAE Systems’ Microelectronics Center Foundry in Nashua, New Hampshire. The FAST Labs organization in Merrimack, New Hampshire will work to ensure the technology is relevant across multiple DoD branches, applications, and businesses.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-to-develop-custom-microelectronics-for-next-generation-radar--electronic-warfare--and-communication-applications

 

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UK Ministry of Defence invests £20m in small arms ammunition


The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has placed a new £20 million order with BAE Systems for the supply of additional small arms munitions over the next two years.

The 5.56mm and 7.62mm rounds will be produced at Radway Green, the Company’s state of the art manufacturing facility which offers some of the most advanced ammunition production capabilities in the world. The announcement follows the signing of a £410 million order for the supply of vital battlefield munitions to the MOD in September when it exercised an option to increase a £280 million supply order announced in July.

We are proud to support the UK MOD as a strategic partner for munitions supply. The significant orders we have secured throughout the year has seen our teams increasing production rates, investing in people and new facilities and maximising shift patterns to meet this enhanced demand. Glynn Plant, Managing Director of Munitions at BAE Systems

In an increasingly contested world, it is crucial that our forces are equipped to meet the threats of the future. Through contracts like these, with the best of some of our homegrown industry, we are continuing to ensure that we replenish and equip our forces, supporting jobs right across the UK. Grant Shapps, UK Secretary of State for Defence

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/uk-ministry-of-defence-invests-20m-in-small-arms-ammunition

 

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BAE Systems to equip Royal Australian Navy's Hunter class frigates with Mk 45 naval guns


BAE Systems has received a contract to deliver multiple shipsets of the Mk 45 Medium Caliber Gun and automated Ammunition Handling System (AHS) for the Royal Australian Navy’s new Hunter class frigates. The Mk 45 gun system will equip the Royal Australian Navy with a common, adaptable gun system that can easily integrate advanced munitions to provide the firepower required to meet the Hunter class deterrence mission.

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Greg Johnson “We are proud to partner with BAE Systems Maritime Australia to deliver the Mk 45 gun system and Ammunition Handling System to the Royal Australian Navy,” said Brent Butcher, vice president and general manager of Weapon Systems at BAE Systems, Inc. “The highly reliable Mk 45 system maximizes the lethality of the Hunter class frigates, offers the capability to integrate advanced munitions, and supports additional future technology upgrades. With this system fielded on 11 fleets across the globe, it has proven it offers high-reliability.”


The Mk 45 gun system combines the 5-inch, 62-caliber Mk 45 Mod 4A naval gun with a fully automated AHS that continuously supplies the gun with ammunition, in high sea state conditions, without assistance from the crew. This automated gun system increases Sailor productivity, reduces risk to Sailor safety, and increases the operational capability of the Mk 45 at sea.


Work on the contract will begin in 2023 and finish in 2036. Engineering work will be completed in Minneapolis, Minnesota and production will occur in Louisville, Kentucky.


BAE Systems has delivered over 280 shipboard applications to the U.S. Navy and 11 fleets across the globe.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-to-equip-royal-australian-navys-hunter-class-frigates-with-mk-45-naval-gun

 

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BAE Systems selected to enhance GPS technology on Eurofighter Typhoon

Typhoon will be the first international platform with DIGAR upgrade

Following successful activity to demonstrate functional compatibility and physical installation feasibility, BAE Systems Digital GPS Anti-jam Receiver (DIGARTM) has been selected to continue into the next phase of the Phase 4 Enhancements (P4E) capability program on the Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft. DIGAR will boost the protection of the aircraft from GPS signal jamming, spoofing, and Radio Frequency (RF) interference, so that pilots can execute their missions in the most heavily contested RF environments.


DIGAR uses advanced antenna electronics, high-performance signal processing, and digital beamforming for significantly improved GPS signal reception and superior jamming immunity. These capabilities considerably increase the level of GPS jamming protection and are critical for combat aircraft as they maneuver through a contested battlespace.


The fighter will also receive BAE Systems’ new GEMVII-6 airborne digital GPS receiver which, when coupled with the DIGAR antenna electronics unit, enables the platform to conduct high-capability digital beamforming anti-jamming.


“Modern fighters require accurate positioning and navigation data for mission success in GPS contested environments,” said Luke Bishop, director of Navigation and Sensor Systems at BAE Systems. “Our DIGAR antenna electronics and GEM VII GPS receivers are trusted to protect these vital platforms in GPS challenged environments to support mission success.”


Eurofighter Typhoon is the backbone of combat air defense for the UK and a number of its key European and international allies. In service with nine nations, it provides 24/7, 365 days a year air security and is in the frontline operations including ongoing NATO air policing across Eastern Europe.


BAE Systems, as part of the four-nation Eurofighter consortium behind the aircraft, is continually investing in the Typhoon jet to maintain its cutting edge military capability.


In addition to Typhoon, DIGAR is also installed on the F-16, F-15, and other special-purpose aircraft in the U.S. such as air interdiction and force protection platforms, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles.


Leveraging more than 40 years of GPS experience, BAE Systems’ family of GPS products offer size, weight, and power characteristics suitable for a variety of applications, including handheld electronics, precision-guided munitions, unmanned aerial vehicles, vehicles, and aircraft.


Work on DIGAR and GEMVII takes place in BAE Systems’ facility in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where the company has invested in a state-of-the-art 278,000-square-foot engineering and production center.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-selected-to-enhance-gps-technology-on-eurofighter-typhoon

 

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Project OdySSEy to form backbone of new military training collaboration


Three companies with world-leading military training expertise have announced that they are working together to combine their unrivalled technology and experience to revolutionise training for the military forces of the future.


BAE Systems, PLEXSYS and Red 6 have agreed to explore the integration of Red 6’s augmented reality headset technology and immersive simulation from PLEXSYS into BAE Systems’ single synthetic training environment. They will use BAE Systems' Project OdySSEy, combined with Red 6's Advanced Tactical Augmented Reality Systems (ATARS) technology and the Advanced Simulation Combat Operations Trainer (ASCOT) from PLEXSYS.


The agreement, announced at the global simulation and training exhibition I/ITSEC 2023 taking place in Orlando, Florida, will see them use the latest technology and decades of working alongside the world's leading military forces to deliver the training required for warfare today and into the future.


The partnership will create an advanced, realistic training environment that will enhance tactical preparedness and decision-making training for students who will be able to interact with a mixture of live and simulated aircraft being operated by fellow students, allowing them to put theoretical knowledge into practice in a cheaper, safer and more sustainable and secure way.

This exceptional partnership exploits our combined expertise and opens up huge opportunities to ensure our customers maintain the mission readiness they require to meet the challenges of the future contested battlespace.Sir Stuart Atha, Director of Training Strategy, BAE Systems

Sir Stuart Atha continues: "We are already working alongside both PLEXSYS and Red 6 as we rapidly mature capability through Project OdySSEy and integrate technologies on the Hawk, the world's most proven and trusted advanced jet trainer aircraft, and now we are further leveraging these relationships to push the boundaries of Live Virtual Constructive (LVC) training.


"BAE Systems trains more than 450 pilots every year from air forces across the globe and it is essential we have the right technologies and partnerships to ensure they have the word-class skills needed on the frontline."

PLEXSYS is excited to partner with BAE Systems and Red 6, uniting our advanced simulation capabilities with cutting-edge augmented reality and synthetic environments. The integration of our ASCOT technology into Project OdySSEy represents a leap forward in training realism and effectiveness. This synergy will provide unparalleled training solutions, preparing military forces for the complexities of the future battlespace with an unprecedented level of immersion and interactivity. We are committed to delivering innovative solutions that enhance mission readiness and operational excellence Ron Wiegand, Chief Executive Officer, PLEXSYS

The partnership developed between these companies creates a powerful synergy in the LVC space that will move synthetic training one step closer to our collective vision to build a military metaverse allowing all warfighters, across all domains to train together in a common augmented reality battlespace. Kevin Fesler, Chief Revenue Office, Red 6

https://www.baesystems.com/en/project-odyssey-to-form-backbone-of-new-military-training-collaboration

 

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BAE Systems unveils ADAPT virtual environment to advance mission outcomes

ADAPT is an integrated virtual environment designed to provide comprehensive analysis across multiple warfighting domains, improving the ability of decision-makers to predict, adapt, and win in contested, evolving environments.


ADAPT models and simulates complex scenarios, encompassing platforms, sensors, networks, data, and processing algorithms in real-time—a capability that is not achievable with high-level simulators or operations analysis tools.


“ADAPT provides the unique ability to simulate tactical-level data to understand how advanced algorithms and software perform within a digital environment to enable decision advantage within battle networks,” said Matt Crozier, director of advanced technology prototyping at BAE Systems Intelligence & Security. “Its open system architecture allows rapid integration of additional simulators and digital models in real-time within live, virtual, and constructive environments.”


The virtual environment’s high-fidelity platform can simulate real-world combined joint all domain command and control (C-JADC2) scenarios. In addition to mission and information analysis, ADAPT provides system of systems analysis through the integration of model-based system engineering in which it can assess, trade, and optimize architecture and requirements in a digital environment.


For more than 30 years, BAE Systems has supported the U.S. government with enterprise IT, engineering, and system integration services, advancing technologies and keeping in step with its evolving mission requirements. Its systems engineering and modernization offerings include the introduction of next-generation commercial products and the implementation of automation, and Agile and DevSecOps solutions.

https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-unveils-adapt-virtual-environment-to-advance-mission-outcomes