Combat superiority for the modern soldier
As an increasingly complex combat space puts more and more tactical demands on units, the military and industry are looking to develop next-generation technologies that can provide tactical superiority over nearly equal opponents with significant combat capabilities
Next-generation technologies aimed at providing the modern soldier with the most effective means of performing the entire spectrum of operational capabilities are continuously researched, developed and implemented in the troops in order to optimize firepower, survivability and accuracy at all tactical levels, including the lowest ones.
The list of these technologies is huge, ranging from communication systems and end-user devices to autonomous support vehicles and target acquisition and acquisition systems that reduce the physical and cognitive burden on the modern soldier.
According to NATO doctrine, modern operational space is defined as "a space that includes all levels of complex conflict in difficult conditions, including disputed maritime territories, where information should be considered a weapon."
Modern military forces face nearly equal and powerful opponents, such as China, Iran, North Korea and Russia, who are relentlessly increasing their capabilities in a wide variety of areas. As a consequence, the military must be prepared not only to combat traditional and existing threats, but also to counter new threats associated with hybrid warfare, which include both kinetic and non-kinetic means.
These threats are of particular concern to dismounted melee units and Special Operations Forces (MTR). However, the solution here may be not only updating weapons, hardware and software, but also the development of principles of combat use and tactics, methods and methods of conducting combat operations. All this should be combined in order to provide combat groups with a complex of capabilities to counter a wide range of threats in the information and cybernetic spheres, as well as in the field of electronic warfare.
For example, the Russian armed forces have successfully applied the concept of Next Generation Warfare (their own version of hybrid warfare). Its implementation was beautifully demonstrated during the hostilities in Ukraine and Syria, where forward ground units were supported by carefully prepared information operations.
It was this activity that forced the armies of many countries to identify and develop a number of new technologies to support small combat groups (company level and below), which could be tasked with conducting operations in conditions of access denial / blocking of the zone where GPS satellite signals and other communication signals can be easily blocked.
Combat experience in Eastern Europe, especially in Ukraine, has shown that coalition forces operating in close proximity to Russian forces experience various problems in their communications networks.
Ukraine's military attaché in the UK said electronic warfare remains an "attractive" option for Russian forces operating in eastern Ukraine.“EW is a highly effective non-kinetic attack that is difficult to track down,” adding that coalition forces in the region know very well what jamming VHF communications is. UHF and GSM networks.
For example, for unknown reasons, "radio traffic suddenly stops," while unmanned aerial vehicles and ground mobile robots, which rely mostly on GPS signals, are also regularly disrupted.
According to Getac spokesman Jackson White, the armed forces are increasingly investing in C4ISTAR technologies (Command, Control, Communications & Computers Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition & Reconnaissance - command, control, communications, computers, information gathering, surveillance, target designation and reconnaissance) to support the "strategy of asymmetric warfare and digitization". As an example, he cited his company's X500 server and laptop, as well as the latest end-user device, the rugged MX50 tablet. released in 2017.
This 15-inch tablet enables high-volume data exchange for 3D mapping applications and other operational control and situational awareness programs. A mobile device the size of a school pencil case can store up to 6 terabytes of data, processes and distributes data received from ground and air platforms, providing advanced units with capabilities to “analyze platform data, mission performed and other parameters in order to ensure operational stability in difficult combat conditions.
The X500 tablet features a Generic Base Architecture that allows integration into existing and future C4ISTAR networks. The device runs on a Windows 10 operating system that provides data protection, authentication and physically secure startup. If the tablet falls into the hands of the enemy, it can be disabled remotely using the Mobile Device Management software.
Refused in connection
The need for secure messaging throughout contested and congested combat space remains a critical and essential prerequisite for military forces seeking to effectively carry out missions in current and future operational environments.
According to some experts, the next generation communication communication systems today should have not only enhanced protection against jammers (as indicated by the example of Ukraine), but also provide b Ohigher data rates in order to give soldiers the ability to support the full range of C4ISTAR capabilities.
These needs have driven the emergence and proliferation of the next generation of programmable radios. They are capable of accepting many special communication protocols and providing communication in the most difficult environments.
In addition, many more advanced militaries seek to expand their influence and establish global cooperation. This requires higher levels of communication systems interaction with local allies, which do not have high-tech programmable radio systems and tactical radio stations available to "Western" armies.
Michael McFerron of the 1st US Marine Division, noting the need to improve signature management of small battle group communications, cautioned: “We need to consider the electromagnetic interference and signals we send. If you are emitting signals, you are dead."
“How to act in such a space? McFerron asked, pointing out the importance of shutting down enemy communications systems while protecting Marine Corps communications. “If we operate in an environment like this, can we shield our systems from more advanced threats? How do we prepare and learn to work in this environment?"
MANET (Mobile Ad Hoc Network) - wireless decentralized self-organizing networks consisting of mobile devices. Each such device can independently move in any direction and, as a result, often break and establish connections with neighbors. Such networks, independent of satellite constellations, are becoming more and more popular. This technology is gradually spreading to infantry units and the MTR, providing personnel with self-healing and interference-resistant communication systems.
Jimi Henderson of Silvus Technologies has his own perspective on the new demands of today's operating environment. They provide for the ability of spetsnaz and infantry in direct contact with the enemy, as well as UAVs and NMRs, to act in opposition, when communication channels can be jammed with a high probability.
For example, the ability of personnel and remotely controlled systems to resist interference is enhanced by the use of dual-band radios that support two radio frequency bands (eg, 2 and 4 GHz) in a single physical device. According to Henderson, such a solution allows the modern soldier to quickly and easily switch between alternative frequencies in order to avoid sources of interference without any need for hardware modification.
“It's about spectrum knowledge,” he explained, noting that then existing radio systems might “overlook” performance and interference issues. Henderson also noted that tactical radio systems should work inside tunnel buildings and underground structures, where line-of-sight communications can easily be disrupted. This is why the ability to maintain communications out of line of sight between operators and unmanned vehicles remains a critical operational requirement.
These solutions include radio stations of the StreamCaster family from Silvus Technologies. Optionally, they support the connection of 2x2 and 4x4 transmitting directional antennas, which provide a signal gain of 2-3 dB and 5-6 dB, respectively. Therefore, they are well suited for "extreme situations where subscribers are moving quickly or are out of line of sight, and antenna length and spacing do not matter," said Henderson.
Radio Streamcaster 4200 2x2 with MIMO technology (multiple-input multiple-output - a method of spatial signal coding that allows to increase the channel bandwidth, in which data transmission and reception are carried out by systems of several adaptive antennas with weak correlation), being the smallest system in the portfolio company, is able to give the necessary capabilities to the MTR and infantry units. The radio with an output power of up to 4 watts is available in a "hardened hand" version; low probability of jamming is provided by the "push-to-talk" mode (only by pressing the button) and dual-band communication.
According to Henderson, Streamcaster radios are capable of supporting up to 380 MANET nodes on a single network. This makes it possible to efficiently broadcast signals from one node to another in an automatic mode, which reduces any dependence on GPS signals and satellite communications in general.
The Streamcaster 4200 radio can also connect to Wi-Fi and GPS devices via an optional external connector. Each system can store up to 128GB of data in its internal memory. Henderson said a network of such radios could achieve "ultra-low latency, on average 7 milliseconds per hop between nodes."
In response to the current demand for combat missions in all C2D2E (Communications Degraded / Communications Denied Environment) scenarios, more and more specialized communications MANET platforms are available on the market for the military. For example, the alternative programmable radio TW-950 Shadow from TrellisWare Technologies. It was presented in May 2017 at the SOFIC Special Forces Conference.
Like the Streamcaster, the Shadow handheld radio is capable of operating in an extended RF range. This allows for higher data rates and, in the words of Mat Fellows of TrellisWare Technologies, "view a variety of high-definition video and is fully interoperable with devices using the proprietary TSM-X protocol."
The Shadow device weighs 312 grams, operates in the 225-450 MHz and 1250-2600 MHz frequency bands, and has a transmit power of 2 watts. The radio station supports up to 16 channels with a delay of "less than a second" and can operate under water at a depth of two meters.
Fellows also confirmed that various MTR units are already using different types of MANET-compatible radio systems, in particular for combating terrorism in populated areas and in the absence of a GPS signal.
Persistent Systems is promoting its MPU5 system, the main component of which is a 3x3 radio with MIMO technology. According to Persistent Systems Director Herbert Rubens, "It generates transmission power of up to 6 watts, providing a secure IP (Internet Protocol) network in all conditions and data rates in excess of 100 megabits per second."
The MPU5 also includes an integrated video encoder / decoder capable of distributing high definition video streams in real time; the Android operating system running the ATAK software; as well as 16 radio channels with traffic over IP (RoI).
“The MPU5 enhances situational awareness, contributing to mission success, and also improves overall safety. In addition, the MPU5 system is an extremely cost effective solution by implementing many possibilities in one commercial product,”explained Rubens of his company's position.
Autonomous support and artificial intelligence
MANET-compatible radio systems are increasingly being used to communicate with autonomous platforms, including UAVs and NMRs. They are actively deployed in operational scenarios to reduce the burden on MTR personnel and infantry units.
The world market currently offers a myriad of different ground-based robotic systems or HMP. This includes small tracked HMPs capable of clearing unexploded ordnance and improvised explosive devices and other information gathering tasks. There are also a number of large wheeled platforms on the market used for both cargo transportation and combat support. NMP can even provide full-time fire support to dismounted assault groups and special forces.
New technologies now allow the use of HMP in increasingly complex combat scenarios. In particular, there is an increased need for MWD to perform tasks in built-up areas and underground utilities.
Industry sources argue that this technological upswing was less about designing and developing entirely new platforms, but more about implementing open architecture standards for simplified integration of payloads and plug-and-play controllers. Of course, trade-offs between size, weight and power are required, and concerns remain about current levels of autonomy across the entire NMR spectrum.
According to the representative of Applied Research Associates Matthew Fordham, it is only now that the modern soldier has begun to benefit from autonomous technology.
For more than a decade, the US Department of Defense has been committed to the widespread use of all-terrain HMPs for military tasks, but until recently, their development was mainly driven by research projects.
“It wasn't until 2017 that the Department of Defense began to purposefully fund military applications by issuing an RFP for the Route Clearance Interrogation System (RCIS) and the Squad Multipurpose Equipment Transport (SMET) program,” he explained.
The US Army in December 2017 selected four participants for the SMET project: Applied Research Associates (ARA) and Polaris Defense (Team Polaris); General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS); HDT Global; and Howe & Howe Technologies.
This program was named in the strategic document of the American army Robotic and Autonomous Systems, published in March 2017, as a short-term priority (until 2020) for the ground forces. The Manned Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) concept is to integrate combined robotic and autonomous capabilities with army units while maintaining full fighter functionality.
The original principles of combat use and SMET requirements related to a vehicle that could accompany soldiers walking at a speed of 3 km / h for up to 72 hours without refueling over a distance of 97 km. Ultimately, the device will have to work in three modes: autonomous, semi-autonomous and remote control.
The platform must carry a load of 454 kg and generate 3 kW when parked and 1 kW in motion. Transporting 454 kg will reduce the load on each soldier in the squad by 45 kg. By reducing the load, the platform will allow Infantry Brigade Combat Team infantry brigade groups to travel long distances, while the generation of electricity from this platform will allow recharging equipment and batteries on the go.
The SMET platform is designed to perform a variety of tasks, including the transport of ammunition, water, batteries and special equipment; C4ISTAR; and fire support.
The Department of Defense is expected to confirm SMET's official program status in the middle of next year. The US Army is considering purchasing up to 80 platforms after selecting a preferred prime contractor.
According to Fordham, the platforms and sensor technologies associated with such HMP developments today are mature enough to be widely deployed in support of the modern soldier and cost-effective enough for subsequent investments.
Referring to the future challenges of the explosive development of HMP, Fordham called “absolute safety” the most important element in any successful robotic platform project. The operation of the HMP must always be safe, without unintended movements or unexpected behavior.
“Just one safety issue can set the robotics aside for years. Predictable platform performance is the key to success. First, safety is always the most important challenge. Redundancy of controllers, secure software, careful analysis, control and testability - all this is the basis for successfully achieving the required level of safety."
“Secondly, there are many problems with off-road robots. We do not have Google Maps that show the best route, traffic rules with signs like in commercial applications. But we have a lot of stones, trees, holes and abrupt changes in relief, which are not marked on the map, the system should solve all this in real time,”explained Fordham.
Applied Research Associates has teamed up with Polaris under the SMET program to offer a solution based on the Polaris MRZR ATV (all terrain vehicle), which is already in service with the infantry and special forces of NATO countries and their allies. The MRZR X variant is an autonomous, optionally controlled variant of the MRZR ATV designed to provide a smoother transition from manned to autonomous robotic systems.
The MRZR X is equipped with a Modular Robotic Applique Kit (M-RAK), which allows the integration of autonomous technologies while maintaining the physical and software architecture of existing inhabited platforms.
Matthew Fordham said one of the advantages of the MRZR X is that “a similar platform is already in use in the US military. Manufacturing costs will be low and support is available worldwide. The machine is easy to operate and maintain, and the transition from manual to unmanned mode occurs at the flip of a toggle switch. Advances in machine learning algorithms, video processing and user-programmable gate array (FPGA) technologies have made significant contributions to the semi-autonomous performance that the military is currently looking for."
“The HMP market is constantly growing. As soldiers' confidence in robotic platforms grows, we will see an increasing proliferation of such systems. The budgets will be formed taking into account the need to introduce additional ground-based robotic systems into the military arsenal. We, looking at our potential opponents, strive to expand the functionality of our robots. They will be able to do the dirtiest and most dangerous work for our soldiers."
Ronen Fishman of the Israeli company Automotive Robotic Industry agreed that the development of HMP is essential for the modern soldier.
However, he believes that the HMR market for national security structures remains more developed than the HMW market for military structures. However, in the near future, these technologies will become widespread in many armies of the world.
"The understanding that HWMs should play a leading role in the next battle is already there, but it will take another two or three years for this understanding to translate into real action."
According to Fishman, the most important requirements for an HMP working side by side with a modern soldier are high maneuverability and excellent maneuverability. However, software remains a key element of any HMP development program, as only software allows the various offline modes to be implemented.
"The hardest part about building software is that it has to make multiple subsystems work in perfect harmony and yet be flexible enough to integrate new advanced subsystems in a fraction of the time."
Automotive Robotic Industry currently offers several wheeled HMPs including AMSTAF 8 8x8; AMSTAF 6 6x6 and AMSTAF 4 4x4, which she is developing in collaboration with BFL India.
At the same time, the HMP market is undergoing a process of reducing the size of platforms and payloads in order to optimize support for infantry and special units, especially when performing reconnaissance and unexploded ordnance disposal missions.
