Could a Digital Camouflage Pattern Replace UCP

In a decision announced in 2010 to replace the Universal Camouflage Pattern (UCP), the Army will be testing five camouflage patterns for a replacement in July. Four out of the five are digital camouflage patterns: desert and woodland MARPAT and AOR 1 and 2. The other is MultiCam®, a gradient pattern. The Army will be selecting patterns for woodland, desert, and transitional environments. The testing of the five patterns will be in 15 military operating environments, taking into consideration seasons, elevations, terrain, and soil.
MARPAT is derived from CADPAT, or Canadian Pattern Disruptive material. Becoming the standard Canadian army pattern in 1997, CADPAT reduces a soldier's ability to be detected by 30 percent when compared with olive drab. Information about CADPAT was given by the Canadian government to the Marine Corps, who then used the research behind CADPAT to form MARPAT. MARPAT then became the basis for other digital camouflage patterns like AOR and UCP.
Designed with the aid of computer software, digital camouflage has a pixilated appearance, one more dithered and, because of few solid lines, less likely to be noticed. After being created on a computer, the digital pattern is printed onto fabric.
Although CADPAT is considered to be the originator of the present digital camouflage trend, the first such pattern was developed in the 1970s. Called Dual Texture Camouflage, or Dual-Tex, the first digital pattern was developed by Lieutenant Colonel Timothy R. O'Neill, a West Point professor of engineering psychology. O'Neill showed that Dual-Tex, when compared with the three-color NATO pattern, reduced a soldier's ability to be detected by 50 percent.
Dual-Tex ended up being used by the U.S. Army 2nd Armored Calvary Regiment in Europe from 1978 to the early '80s, and the Australian army experimented with the digital camouflage pattern during this time. Dual-Tex, however, was eventually replaced by the three-color NATO pattern in the '80s, but the research behind it is cited in patents for CADPAT and MARPAT.
The effectiveness of MARPAT in disguising a soldier's outline may make it an effective replacement for UCP. MultiCam®, however, is also effective. As a multi-environmental camouflage pattern, MultiCam has a brown to light tan gradient base, with drab green dotted by dark brown and pink in between. Varying across the material, the combination of gradient colors allows the fabric to reflect a surrounding environment and to take on an overall green or tan appearance, tricking the human eyes' perception of color. Presently used exclusively for Army Combat Uniforms in Afghanistan, MultiCam® is able to effectively blend into a terrain of mountains, woodlands, and desert.

Fielding MultiCam Uniforms in Afghanistan

A multi-environmental camouflage pattern, MultiCam is designed to help soldiers hide in various elevations, seasons, and lights. Over the past year, soldiers in Afghanistan have been issued new Army Combat Uniforms (ACUs) in MultiCam, as the gradient camouflage pattern blends better into the country's terrain of woodlands, mountains, and desert.
Also referred to as Operation Enduring Freedom Camouflage Pattern, or OCP, MultiCam was developed by Crye Precision, who at the time was already collaborating with the Army on new soldier equipment. Research for a camouflage pattern effective in all environments began in 2002, and the team took pictures of various terrains, rocks, and vegetation and studied animal camouflage to find common aspects. 12 patterns were created originally before deciding on the pattern now known as MultiCam or OCP. At the time, however, MultiCam was not chosen for the new ACU, and instead, the Universal Camouflage Pattern (UCP) was used.
Considered a transitional camouflage pattern, MultiCam reflects the surrounding environment by taking an overall green or tan appearance. With a brown to light tan gradient base, with drab green spotted with dark brown and pink blotches in between, MultiCam tricks the human eyes' perception of color and disguises volume and shape.
While UCP is better suited to the desert and urban environments of Iraq, where it was tested, it proved to be less efficient in Afghanistan. As a result, the Army began four-part testing in September 2009 to find a new pattern for soldiers in Afghanistan. Multiple camouflage patterns were first tested against various terrains. Then, pictures of six camouflage patterns, including MultiCam and UCP, against eight terrains were taken and approximately 750 soldiers were asked to judge the photographs and rank the patterns' effectiveness. Out of these tests, MultiCam was chosen above the others.
OCP uniforms for ground soldiers in Afghanistan have been issued since August 2010, and the next step is equipping the Army aircrews. According to a May 31, 2011 Army Times article titled "Aircrew Uniforms to Match Others in Afghanistan," the 159th Combat Aviation Brigade was the first to receive OCP uniforms and gear; next, the 3,000 aircrew members deployed annually will receive the same type of gear, most of which replaces previous UCP equipment. In addition to OCP, Army Aircrew Combat Uniforms, all of which have flash-fire protection and can be worn with Microclimate Cooling Vests, issued MultiCam gear includes a Primary Survival Gear carrier, a soft body armor cover, an aircrew survival egress knife sheath, a short tether for the crew shield and medic, two additional M4 ammunition pockets for OH-58 Kiowa and AH-64 Apache pilots, portable helicopter oxygen delivery system pouches, and an encrypted aircraft wireless intercom system pouch.

Tactical Gear With Night Vision Technology

Being able to see is a crucial aspect of safety and performance for soldiers, and as a result, various pieces of tactical gear are equipped with night vision. Called night vision devices, or NVDs, such tactical gear encompasses goggles, binoculars, illuminators, and sights designed for warfighters or law enforcement professionals. NVDs are used by soldiers for surveillance, navigation, vehicle operations, exact shooting, and stealthily approaching targets and increase operational capabilities.
Tactical gear with night vision capabilities falls into one of two types: light amplification and thermal enhancement. The former, also known as image enhancement, is more common. On a basic level, a light amplification NVD has an Image Intensifier Tube that collects and amplifies infrared and invisible light. To do this, the tube converts photons into electrons and then converts them back again.
Thermal imaging, or enhancement, takes advantage of the fact that all objects emit infrared energy, which is proportional to the amount of heat it produces. NVDs with thermal enhancement sense infrared energy and then provide a thermal image of an area. Thermal imaging devices are either un-cooled or cryogenically cooled, with the former being more common. Cryogenically cooled thermal imaging tactical gear, on the other hand, has a far higher degree of resolution and sensitivity, allowing the user to see a difference of 0.2°F of infrared energy from 1,000 feet away. Although both types of NVDs are effective in tactical environments, thermal imaging allows for detection of people and vehicles in near darkness with no ambient lighting and can also be used in full daylight.
Tactical gear with night vision capabilities has been in use for more than 40 years, and since its introduction by the U.S. Army during World War II, it has experienced several changes and improvements. The first night vision devices, called "Generation 0," used active infrared technology. An IR illuminator was attached to an NVD, and for an object to be visible, a beam of light had to reflect off it and bounce back to the lens of the NVD. On a scientific level, an anode was used with a cathode to accelerate electrons, but the process resulted in distorted images and was quickly duplicated by other nations.
Generation 1 NVDs were passive infrared. For an object to be seen, ambient light from the moon or stars compounded to normal amounts of reflected infrared light in an environment, but such an approach meant that the device did not work well in cloudy or moonless conditions. While Generation 1 used the same image-intensifier tube as Generation 0, the newer NVDs did not need a source of projected infrared light.
Generation 2 had significant improvements over the first two systems, especially to the image-intensifier tubes. With better resolution, performance, and reliability, Generation 2 NVDs could be used in low-light conditions. A microchannel plate (MCP) was also added to the image-intensifier tube. Rather than accelerating existing electronics, the MCP increased the number of them, resulting in less image distortion.
Currently in use by the U.S. Military, Generation 3 NVDs employ the same technology as the previous system but have better resolution and sensitivity capabilities. Specific changes include a photo cathode made with gallium arsenide, which efficiently converts photons to electronics. The MCP, as well, is coated with an ion barrier, which extends the lifespan of the tube.
Using "filmless and gated" technology, Generation 4 NVDs offer better vision in low- and high-level light environments. With the ion barrier on the MCP removed, the device reduces background noise and enhances the signal-to-noise ratio. More electrons can reach the amplification stage, which creates brighter images with less distortion. Generation 4 NVDs also use an automated gated power supply system, which allows the photocathode voltage to quickly switch on and off. The tactical gear, as a result, responds to rapidly fluctuating light conditions, and the user can move from high- to low-light areas without visual interference.

Tactical Gear for Illumination and Search

Used by soldiers, law enforcement, and search and rescue personnel, tactical, or military, lights are ideal for low- to no-light environments and may be operated hands-free. On a basic level, military lights are stronger than average flashlights and do more than simply illuminate an area. No matter the nature of the application, it provides concentrated illumination to one specific area and assists with the user finding or briefly blinding a target.
On a basic level, a tactical light allows a soldier or law enforcement personnel to identify a target or suspect in full darkness. The light can illuminate a full area or be concentrated in one place and allows the user to determine where to aim.
Tactical lights come in two types: hands-free and weapon-mounted lights. The former allows a user to operate a weapon, typically a handgun, and a flashlight at the same time. Mounted tactical lights, also called weapon lights, allow a user to illuminate an area without directly holding onto a flashlight. Typically, weapon lights are attached to rifles, shotguns, or submachine guns, although some can attach to handguns. Certain manufacturers like SureFire design tactical gear for specific firearms, but through a Picatinny rail system or clamp, others can attach to more than one type.
Although less cumbersome, weapon lights have a downside for a shooter. With the beam and the weapon parallel, the light can give away the shooter. To prevent revealing himself, the shooter can use an infrared light and night vision goggles, or use the flashlight to temporarily distract or blind the target.
Compared to the average flashlight, a tactical light is stronger and creates a brighter beam. Because of where and how the tactical gear is used, the light must be able to withstand the elements and must be able to fall without breaking. For a durable design, a typical tactical light has a body made out of aluminum and polymer and is resistant to rust, scratches, and corrosion.
For the light, a xenon or LED bulb is used, although the latter is more common. Long-lasting and requiring minimal power to operate, an LED bulb is five times brighter than xenon and will not experience filament breakage from recoil. Because different scenarios call for different lights, a tactical light may be equipped with red, blue, and infrared options. While infrared increases concealment for the user, red is better for night vision, and blue assists with detecting blood.

Will Testing New Camouflage Patterns Mean a Return to Digital Camouflage in Afghanistan

At the end of 2010, the U.S. Army announced plans to replace its Army Combat Uniform (ACU) in the Universal Camouflage Pattern (UCP) with another color combination. Although MultiCam®, also known as Operation Enduring Freedom Camouflage Pattern (OCP), is presently used on ACUs in Afghanistan, UCP, issued first, did not blend in well with the country's terrain of mountains, woodland, and desert.
UCP was designed originally to blend in with all environments, from the desert to woodlands to urban areas, but has not always been effective. In 2009 Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mark Ulsh wrote to Army Times: "The general consensus on the ACU pattern among many, many soldiers is that it is ineffective in breaking up a soldier's outline in just about every environment except in urban areas and the local gravel pit. As an aviator, I can tell you that from the air most other nations' camouflage masks a soldier better than the ACU does."
The absence of the color black in UCP has been another concern for soldiers. Because black is not naturally found in nature, the Army considered it to be disruptive, particularly in desert and urban areas. Uniform designers and soldiers in woodland areas, however, have argued that black is a necessary color for forest camouflage.
Three types of color combinations will be tested to find a replacement for UCP, a digital camouflage pattern. Woodland, desert, and transitional patterns are the planned test groups, and patterns MultiCam®, Woodland and Desert MARPAT, and AOR 1 and 2 will be included. With the exception of MultiCam®, a gradient-based pattern designed to blend into various environments, elevations, seasons, and light, MARPAT and AOR are digital camouflage patterns.
UCP was derived from MARPAT, which itself was based on Canadian Pattern Disruptive Material, or CADPAT. A standard Canadian Army pattern in 1997, CADPAT is said to have started the present digital camouflage trend. When tested, CADPAT was 30-percent more effective than solid olive drab in concealing soldiers. CADPAT, however, is a copyrighted pattern, and when the Marine Corps inquired about using it with the Canadian government, the Canadian government provided information and resources to the USMC regarding CADPAT.
Digital camouflage, unlike the three-color NATO or gradient MultiCam® pattern, is pixilated, created first on a computer and ten printed onto nylon. The combination of squares gives the camouflage pattern a dithered appearance, creating fewer solid lines and making a soldier less likely to be noticed.
CADPAT, however, is not the first instance of digital camouflage. Lieutenant Colonel Timothy R. O'Neill, a West Point professor of engineering psychology, developed Dual-Tex, the original digital camouflage pattern. O'Neill showed that Dual-Tex, when compared to the three-color NATO pattern, reduces detection by 50 percent. Dual-Tex was used by the U.S. Army 2nd Armored Calvary Regiment in Europe from 1978 to the early '80s, and the Australian Army experimented with it, but this early digital camouflage was soon replaced by the three-color NATO pattern.
A new camouflage pattern for the Army Combat Uniform is not expected until 2012, but if AOR or MARPAT is preferred on a universal level, an ACU in either digital camouflage may supersede MultiCam®. OCP is presently used on uniforms only in Afghanistan, but when tests on the effectiveness of multiple camouflage patterns in the country were performed in 2009, MARPAT came in second. Claiming that all camouflage patterns should be unique to each branch of the Military, the USMC, however, owns the rights to MARPAT and does not want their pattern duplicated.

Recent Changes to Tactical Equipment: Detection Devices, Body Armor, Uniforms, and Goggles

Soldiers overseas consistently experience regular and consistent threats. As a result, tactical equipment is always evolving to meet this need. According to an article by Lance M. Bacon titled "Equipping the Soldiers of the Future," new or improved tactical equipment goes from an idea to out on the field in a year or less. The gear being created, however, addresses a specific threat, and the development of new equipment focuses more on mission-specific adaptability instead of uniformity. The Asymmetric Warfare Group, Program Executive Office Soldier, and Rapid Equipping Force are involved in the process of identifying a need for soldiers, developing the equipment, and getting it out into the field as soon as possible.
Enhanced Night Vision Goggles are one of the new pieces of gear developed and put into action. These goggles use thermal detection, which allows the wearer to see people and vehicles at night, in all weather conditions, and during battle.
Another new development for tactical gear is the "Sense Through the Wall" technology. The AN/PPS-26 uses radar waves to sense and find targets through eight inch thick walls. The device is sensitive enough to detect breathing patterns. The AN/PPS-26 has a 20-meter reach and uses a red-dot sight to find the target. Although not implemented yet, 9,212 detectors are planned for the future.
The Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is a detection device for IEDs. The GPR identifies buried mines and explosives - even nonmetallic ones - and is attached to a vehicle or the forward arm of the Husky mine detection system. As IEDs are a significant threat in Afghanistan, GPRs are expected to reduce the amount of explosives-related injuries and deaths.
The Second Generation Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV) is an improvement over the previous body armor system. Efficiency is a key change in the 2nd Gen IOTV, and a plate carrier that allows soldiers to release weight quickly while still keeping their organs protected is the vest's most notable feature. The 2nd Gen IOTV is equipped with a quick-release cable and is easily adjustable.
The Army Combat Uniform (ACU) is another piece of tactical equipment that has seen recent changes. In addition to the implementation of the MultiCam pattern for troops in Afghanistan, ACUs no longer have crumpling collars and have less Velcro. The trouser pockets, for example, now have buttons, and the material has been treated to be fire resistant and with insect-resistant permethrine.

Characteristics of Potential ACU Camouflage Patterns

At the conclusion of 2010, the Army announced plans to replace the current Army Combat Uniform (ACU) camouflage. Introduced with ACU in 2004, the Universal Camouflage Pattern works well in urban and desert environments but was not effective in the varied terrain of Afghanistan, which changes from woodlands to desert to mountains. Although UCP ACUs in Afghanistan are being replaced by those in MultiCam®, the Army's new camouflage pattern would be used on uniforms globally.
Potential replacements for UCP include MultiCam®, desert and woodland MARPAT, and AOR 1 and 2. Wear and field tests for all patterns began in July 2012. Once a new ACU pattern is selected, production for a new uniform is projected for October 2012.
Tests that began in September 2009 showed that MultiCam®, a gradient camouflage pattern, blends the best into changing environments, seasons, and elevations. With a brown to light tan gradient base, with drab green spotted with dark brown and pink blotches, MultiCam® has a blending effect that tricks the human eyes' perception of color. As a result, the camouflage pattern takes on a green or tan appearance.
MARPAT and AOR, however, are digital camouflage patterns, much like UCP but with black added. Digital camouflage, unlike the seamlessly-blending appearance of MultiCam®, is pixilated, which allows the pattern to have few solid lines, or seem dithered. When tests were first done on digital camouflage in the 1970s, and again in the 1990s, the pattern performed 30- to 50-percent better than solid olive drab and three-color NATO patterns.
Although based on MARPAT, UCP consists of blocks of alpha and foliage green, light brownish gray, and gray-yellow brown; while these colors are helpful for blending into desert and urban areas, the absence of black and strong prevalence of gray make UCP stand out in woodland environments. Woodland MARPAT, which is based on Canadian Army pattern CADPAT, and AOR 1 both include alpha and foliage green shades, some tan, and black. AOR 2 and desert MARPAT, on the other hand, are better suited for desert or urban areas.
In tests for ACU camouflage in Afghanistan, all patterns - MultiCam®, AOR 1 and 2, and MARPAT - performed well and better than UCP. More specifically, desert MARPAT was favored in the southern region of the country, and MultiCam® was preferred in the east; AOR 1 and 2, while not the most favored, came out toward the top in the tests. As testing for a truly universal camouflage pattern is about to begin, results could be similar, and presently, all patterns appear to be strong contenders - on their own or with woodland and desert variations - to replace UCP.

Army Combat Uniform: Past, Present, and Future

Since its introduction in 2004, the Army Combat Uniform has gone through several changes over the past seven years. Changes have included modifications to the uniform's design and moving from one camouflage pattern to two. ACU's original pattern, Universal Camouflage Pattern (UCP), proved to not blend in well with Afghanistan's terrain of woodlands, mountains, and desert whereas the MultiCam® pattern has. Therefore, uniforms in MultiCam® have exclusively been issued to soldiers in Afghanistan since 201 and the Army is presently performing tests to find a new more universally acceptable camouflage pattern.
Replacing the Battle Dress Uniform (BDU), ACU was a significant redesign. At the time, ACU was described as "shapeless" and "untucked" and consisted of a jacket, trousers, and patrol cap in Universal Camo, along with a moisture-wicking t-shirt and tan combat boots. The new uniforms had Mandarin collars, Velcro fasteners, zippers instead of buttons, knee pouches on pants, and sleeve pockets instead of bottom pockets.
UCP was another drastic change for Army uniforms. A digital camouflage pattern, UCP was based on MARPAT, used by the Marine Corps, and has a color scheme of Foliage and Alpha greens, light brownish grey, and grey-yellow brown. Tested by PEO Soldier Systems with soldiers in Iraq and stateside, UCP was designed to blend into desert, urban, and woodland environments. The pattern, however, proved to be more effective in urban areas but did not blend well in woodlands. The pattern's lack of black, which is disruptive in urban areas, is said to be the cause of UCP's decreased effectiveness in woodland environments.
MultiCam® was chosen to replace UCP after testing for a new camouflage pattern solely for the Army Combat Uniform in Afghanistan in 2009. A multi-environmental camouflage pattern, MultiCam® tricks the human eyes' perception of color by taking on an overall green or tan appearance. A gradient pattern, MultiCam® uses a brown to light tan gradient base, which is broken up by drab green dotted by dark brown and pink blotches. For optimal concealment, the camouflage pattern varies across the fabric, which disguises volume and shape.
A new camouflage pattern is the future of ACU. In July 2010, the Army began testing woodland, desert, and transitional patterns in 15 military-operating environments. Seasons, elevations, terrain, and soil are all taken into consideration in testing. While MultiCam® is part of the test group, digital patterns desert and woodland MARPAT and AOR 1 and 2 are the other contenders.

The Formula One and Bahrain's Shiite Uprising

Along with ongoing conflicts throughout the Middle East and North Africa, Bahrain is in its second year of a Shiite uprising against the Sunni Al-Khalifa monarchy. Bahrain's Shiites, who make up roughly 70% of the island's 1.2 million inhabitants, are openly seeking greater political representation, equality, reforms, the fall of the King, and the ousting of foreign mercenaries from the country. However, unlike other conflicts, Bahrain has received little international media attention, despite it being the home of the US Navy's 5th Fleet, and its strategic location to Iran. That said, the issue of the upcoming Formula One race in the Kingdom on April 20 offers the opposition a chance to focus international attention on their stated plight, which has become part of the larger and bloody power struggle between Sunnis and Shiites in the Middle East.
The unrest in Bahrain has much to do with historical and transnational disputes, but most specifically - the perceived political and social repression of the country's Shiites by the Sunni monarchy. To that point, Gulf Arab states, led by the Saudis, view the possibility of a Shiite takeover in Bahrain - one which would surely benefit arch rival Iran - as a threat to their national interests and to regional security in the vitally strategic Persian Gulf. Thus, they are keen to maintain a Sunni regime in Bahrain and are willing to intervene militarily to do so. The Iranians however, view the two-century-old Khalifa monarchy as an oppressor of Shiites and a vanguard against Shiite ascension in the region. However, unlike the Saudis, the Iranians have yet to take direct action in Bahrain other than offering political and moral support for their Shiite brethren. For the aforementioned reasons, soon after Shiite protests broke out last year, the monarchy was quick to request a Saudi military intervention on the island, and the Saudis gladly accepted the offer.
Since thousands of Saudi soldiers entered the Kingdom last year, the Shiite opposition has been unable to budge the monarchy and the immediate threat to the regime has been lifted. Therefore, the monarchy insisted that the famed Formula One event be held in the country, given their ability to better contain the widespread protests and riots. The Formula One race has become a source of pride for the Khalifa regime, as it places Bahrain on the international stage and offers a platform to showcase the country's economic successes. However, the country's Shiites view the event as grossly inappropriate given the ongoing government clampdown, and are adamant to pressure, both politically and physically, to cancel it. Moreover, after a year of protests, Bahrain's leaders are likely still intent on going through with the event despite the security precautions needed, as their economy could surely use the revenue, plus some positive press. Therefore, unlike last year, where violence forced the cancellation of the internationally recognized race, this year's event is still on. The decision by international teams and Formula One to go ahead with the mega event in the face of fierce opposition and ongoing clashes has enraged Bahraini Shiites.
More importantly, however, the coming race highlights a long-term problem for Bahrain. After turning the protests into a campaign to oust the al-Khalifa regime - a regime many Shiites view as illegitimate - they have left little room for compromise. For the government's part, the Saudi intervention, combined with Sunni angst of possible Shiite gains within Bahrain, has left little room for compromises on their part as well. Furthermore, their inability to seriously pressure the regime - much to the credit of Saudi military support - more militant factions within the opposition have intensified their attacks on security forces in recent weeks. Other than an increase in bombings, Molotov cocktail ambushes and rock throwing routinely accompany daily protests against Sunni security forces - paid mercenaries who are dispatched to Shiite villages throughout the country. But at the moment, the opposition remains nowhere near ousting the regime, or even threatening its stability - let alone cancelling the upcoming race.
In the end, the Formula One event is bringing about some extra attention towards the tiny, albeit strategic island. However, that attention is likely only temporary. Either way, Shiites will continue to press for a change of government or greater representation in Bahrain and will likely intensify their campaign even more in the immediate term. For their part, the Sunni minority - headed by the Khalifa family and backed by Sunni Arabs throughout the Middle East - are likely to control the island for as long as the Saudis remain committed to prohibiting a Shiite state on their eastern border. Nevertheless, Bahrain, like other conflict-ridden parts of the region, is set for a prolonged period of sectarian unrest even after international attention leaves the island along with the Formula One.

Developing Lighter and More Powerful Tactical Gear

As degenerative arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions are becoming more prevalent in soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan, lightening troops' loads has become a factor in creating new tactical gear. The weight of a soldier's load has increased tenfold since 2003 and resulted in multiple pervasive repercussions. According to a February 2010 Seattle Times piece titled "Weight of War: Gear that Protects Troops Also Injures Them," heavier loads reduces combat readiness, and between 2004 and 2007, one-third of all medical evaluations in Afghanistan and Iraq stemmed from musculoskeletal connective tissue or spinal injuries - double the amount of injuries from combat.
In March, Rep. Roscoe Bartlett, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee's tactical air and land forces panel, stated that the Army and Marine Corps need to consider alternative approaches for carrying gear and ammunition, as loads for soldiers can be as large as 145 pounds. While Rep. Bartlett drew attention to this growing concern, lighter but powerful tactical gear is being developed for soldiers as a response to it.
The XM806 lightweight.50 caliber machine gun is one such piece of gear. A successor to the M2, the XM806 is half the weight of its predecessor, and its recoil is reduced by 60 percent. The XM806 has a range of 2,000 meters - 170 more than the M2 - and also allows for quick barrel changes with no adjustments for head space and timing. While not currently fielded, the XM806 was scheduled to be in use by 2014, but a pierced primer resulted in more testing. The delay is projected to be 17 months, and the additional time allows for PEO Soldier Systems to develop a more reliable weapon.
The M224A1 60mm lightweight company mortar system has a similar set of qualities. 20-percent lighter than its predecessor, the M224A1 uses a nickel-based alloy for cannon tubes and keeps the same range. Considered more durable, the M224A1 requires less maintenance and is expected to replace all 1,550 mortar systems by 2014.
Ammunition, as well, is being developed with a similar set of properties. The M829E4 120mm Advanced Kinetic Energy tactical tank round is expected to be more accurate than previous tank ammunition but will not require additional force on behalf of soldiers. Although still in a developmental stage, the M829E4 round is being designed to have greater heavy armor defeat capabilities and to increase first shot lethality.
While being lighter and still powerful is the goal behind new or in-development tactical gear, equipment to carry a heavy load, such as the Human Universal Load Carrier (HULC), is also in the works. HULC would equip a soldier to lift 200 pounds of supplies, weapons, ammunition, or another person. Developed by Lockheed Martin in conjunction with Natick Soldier Research, Development, and Engineering Center, HULC is a battery-powered exoskeleton with a built-in microcomputer and hydraulically-driven titanium legs, which align with a soldier's movements. For versatility and efficiency, HULC is adjustable without tools, conforms to the 95th percentile of men, and is sealed to keep out water and dust.
Lockheed Martin states that HULC "augments ability, strength, and endurance." More specifically, the device is capable of handling deep squats, crawls, and upper body lifting without a control mechanism. Sensing what the user wants to do or where to go, HULC is built to be used in all terrains and operates on battery power for extended missions.

Changes to Trauma-Related Tactical Gear

Tactical gear extends beyond weapons, communications equipment, and carrying cases to medical and trauma supplies. Crucial equipment on the battlefield, tactical gear for addressing injuries is given to soldiers, and Army Combat Support Hospitals (CSHs) need to have the appropriate supplies on hand for treating casualties. Both aspects of trauma care, however, have been going through changes as the result of the Afghanistan and Iraq wars and past conflicts.
A proposal to redesign CSH features is in the works, according to August 7 piece "Combat Support Hospitals May Get New Look" in the Army Times. Overall changes would include greater surgical capabilities and the ability to operate in multiple locations. The final stop before casualties are airlifted out for advanced or long-term care, CSH presently uses 248 beds and is not configured to be split into multiple units in different locations. As an adaptation to the demands of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, however, CSHs were divided into two to five locations.
In addition to 240 beds, the new CSH would be designed with mix and match features based on demands. The new CSH, if approved, would have two identical Early Entry Hospital Elements (EEHE) with increased trauma care capabilities, such as an operating room with two tables, four surgical specialists, a CT scanner, and pre- and post-operation capabilities; a surgical expansion could also be added. Aside from increased features for EEHEs, CSH would have medical expansion with ICU and intermediate care ward capabilities, two 60-bed hospital expansion units, specialty augmentation teams for specialized care, and authorization for 534 personnel. In addressing trauma needs, commanders will be able to add surgical capabilities. If the proposed design is approved, the changes for CSH would go into effect in 2014.
Casualty demands from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, as well as past wars, show that more than medic personnel need to be knowledgeable about trauma care and equipment, and as a result, Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) has been employed by the Army Rangers. A strategy for soldiers to tend to their injuries on the battlefield, TCCC is based on studies from casualties of previous wars, when only physicians and medics were responsible for care, and has three objectives: treat patients, prevent further casualties, and complete the mission. To enforce these three points, TCCC involves training all military personnel on basic trauma care and supplying them with appropriate tactical gear, including kits with pressure dressings, tourniquets, and other lifesaving supplies. All tactical gear and training assists soldiers with addressing severe bleeding, tension pneumothorax, and airway obstruction on the battlefield.

Tactical Gear for Hydration

A soldier's performance must be at a high level at all times and is partially contingent on hydration. To be prepared, soldiers away from base camp need to be equipped with hydration packs and supplies.
A standard hydration pack has a back pack or waist pack design with a reservoir, or bladder, inside. Made out of rubber or flexible plastic, the bladder holds 1.5 to 3 liters and has a capped mouth for filling with a liquid or attaching a hose. The hose feature allows a user to drink from the hydration pack hands free and is equipped with a bite valve, which opens when the user bites down; some models have the bite valve protected by a dust cover. The pack itself may be insulated to prevent the water inside the bladder from freezing or becoming warm.
Although used often for hiking, kayaking, and bicycling, hydration packs are used by soldiers stationed in hot, dry desert environments like the Middle East. Soldiers, however, may be away from base camp for several days at a time and may rely on raw water for hydration. Containing microorganisms, viruses, chemicals, and debris, raw water, from a river, stream, or rain, is not drinkable and, instead, must be filtered and purified first. A couple of approaches can be taken. On an individual level, a soldier can add a small filter into the hose of the hydration pack and also use a purifying solution to quickly kill any viruses or microorganisms in the water. On a larger scale, tactical gear like the Seldon WaterBox™ may be needed.
Combat in the Middle East over the past 20 years resulted in development of new tactical gear, including hydration systems. Prior to that point, hydration systems consisted almost exclusively of canteens, which were first introduced by the Infantry Equipment Board during World War I. These early canteens, called M1910, were made out of aluminum, and with an attached cup, each held one quart of water. During the next few decades, stainless steel replaced aluminum for the M1910, and a screw top and insulated cover were added.
The next generation hydration system, M1961, was introduced by the Vietnam War. An olive drab polyethylene plastic canteen, M1961 retained water better than metal models and kept it cooler in jungle environments. Not obsolete, polyethylene canteens are still used today as one option for hydration.
Dehydration hinders a soldier's performance, as well an athlete's. Without proper hydration, an individual can lose up to two percent of his body weight through sweating and is considered dehydrated when he loses two percent or more of his body weight. When dehydration occurs, an individual experiences a drop in blood volume, which results in the heart needing to work harder, muscle cramps, dizziness, fatigue, heat exhaustion, or a heat stroke. Because dehydration happens easily in dry, hot arid climates, soldiers stationed in Afghanistan, Iraq, or any area with similar conditions should be equipped with hydration packs and effective filtration devices.

Who Wears Concealable Body Armor

Ballistic vests are designed to protect anyone, whether he or she is a police enforcer, military, soldier or simply an ordinary citizen. However, these vests are created with different resistance capacity from level 1 to level 4 in order to suit each individual's needs. These vests are also divided different types, it can be concealable body armor or it can be a military bullet proof vest.
As a wearer, we all have different preferences and demands. For law enforcement officials, they require higher levels of protection than politicians. It is undeniable that our profession may also necessitate different types of bullet proof vest. Some may need to wear concealable body armor to keep its identity low like secret agents. But for others, a more visible type of gear like that of the military requires them to be conspicuous for easier spotting especially in the crowd.
These types of profession such as investigators, politicians, and security forces are some of the people who are suited to wear concealable body armor. Militaries, soldiers, and squat team on the other hand are preferred to wear tactical type of vest.
What Is Concealable Body Armor?
Although all types of ballistic vest are designed to protect a person from bullets, they offer variable resistance capacity. Concealable ones are thinner and lighter but can only resist bullets up to level 3A. Level 3 and 4 requires additional plates making it heavier and bulkier as that of the first one.
Therefore if you want to buy the concealable type of ballistic vest, it is wise to know its resistance capacity and the kind of protection you need to determine suitability. From the word concealable, it means that these vests are worn beneath your clothing. Its purpose is to make it unnoticeable to the public. People who wants to appear low profile especially those in a mission or even citizens with high stature in the community seeks to have a protective clothing that will make them blend where ever they go.
Concealable vests are designed to resist 9mm,.22 calibers, 357 magnum and other handguns. If you think that higher protection is required, additional plates must be inserted to your resistance vest.
The best thing to do is to figure out what level of protection you need before buying. You can see the levels at the NIJ website and what corresponding weapons they can withstand. Ask yourself where and why you need to wear one. Knowing the answers to these questions will help determine whether concealable body armor is the right one for you.

Willful Ignorance and Military Infidelity

My son Dave served with the Marines that included two tours overseas to Iraq. Recently he posted a funny but sobering comic on a social networking site. The comic depicted an elated young soldier informing his comrades that his wife back in the states was two months pregnant to which one of his friends informed him that he had been on tour for over five months. Either the young soldier was not a mathematical wiz or he choose the path of denial in regards to his wife's obvious infidelity. My son obviously understood well the lonely seasons away from family while in the military, so he was compelled to post. I am thankful to him for this since divorce and infidelity statistics that involve our military branches are rarely revealed by the U.S. Government.
I have come to learn that there is actually a large percent of military personnel that suffer from infidelity and divorce and have heard reports of military infidelity over the years. I have also felt pity for the families that have experienced this challenge and tragedy. Today many men and women are required to spend countless days or sometimes years overseas while defending our country. The tour of duty many times proves to be too much of a strain on the relationship, leading to one or both partners cheating or the marital relationship ending in divorce. It is reported that as of 2011, 3.7 or over 30,000 military marriages end in divorce each year. The military is aware of the increasing trend and has provided informational websites and programs such as Strong Bonds, an Army Chaplain based program that understands military families needs well and provides counseling and other family centered activities and services to assist military personnel through challenging times. Another good source is The National Military Family Association.
Due to these unfortunate statistics in reference to military infidelity and divorce, many families have litigation issues where evidence is needed regarding a cheating spouse. Ed Opperman is a leader in the field of uncovering Infidelity, Computer, Cell Phone Forensic Investigations and more.
Living in denial is not the answer in marriage but providing our military with support in every area to better assist them in dealing with the realities at hand is. It is good to know that all branches are working closely with military personnel and their families to bring a needed decline regarding infidelity, separation and divorce in 2012 and hopefully beyond.
Article By L. R. Knight

L.R. Knight has authored four books. Sweet Destiny Inspirational Thoughts, Poems and Songs, Self Publishing For Pennies, The Jealous Church and Funeral For Pennies On A Dollar. L.R. has submitted articles to local papers and on various sites on the internet.

Robotic Quasi-Submersible Attack Vessel Fire Sequencing Strategy

Interestingly enough, the software programs which control our UAVs when they lose contact with the satellite are quite simple. Keeping the aircraft straight and level, and maintaining the necessary flight characteristics are not that complicated at all. In fact, if the military loses contact with one of our drones, the robotic aircraft simply turns around and flies home after so many minutes having lost contact. Meanwhile, it flies straight and level, and continues on its mission more or less.
Now then, with this in mind I have another topic of interest, perhaps one even more important to the future safety of our nation, allies, and overseas assets. We will need to create more robotic quasi-submersible naval attack vessels. These units will use a hunt and destroy method. And there will be many times when they are not in contact with the satellites due to heavy storms or cloud cover, or ocean currents which temporarily push them under the water too far, making it difficult for a signal to get through.
Therefore, these vessels will need special firing sequence strategies. Again, just as with the UAVs it could be a very simple program. Even if an enemy ship turns off all of its power, or an enemy submarine goes silent, the quasi-robotic submersible will be able to use a firing sequence, just as the strategy used in World War II with the U.S. Navy destroyer, as they used depth charges in a grid defense pattern to find in sink enemy German U-boats, which today could be a simple program - ever play Battleship, the strategy board game?
I would recommend that the guns fire in the following sequences; four - two - two - four - repeat within the grid of the last known position of the enemy target. This will either shake the captain of the other ship into firing back, or trying to evade the area. As soon as the enemy vessel fires upon the submersible, it will have given away its position. If it starts up its engines or tries to evade, it will also be detected. Once the detection has occurred, the submersible can contact all the other submersibles in the area with the exact location, and direction of travel. Swarm warfare strategies will then ensue.
Even if the submersible is taken out of action and hit by the enemy, that new information of its location will be given to all the other robotic vessels, any enemy doesn't dare repeat that trick. Having large numbers of these vessels around, our robotic units can detect enemy ships, submarines, sea mines, and perhaps even aircraft. We need to be thinking here, because other nations are with their naval forces. After all, things are heating up in the South China Sea, Sea of Japan, and the Straits of Taiwan.
There have been skirmishes off the coast of the Philippines, and we all know the challenges in the area of the Straits of Hormuz, as well as off the coast of South Korea. Also think of the pirate activities originating in Somalia. Our defense industry could sell thousands of these units to all of our allies protecting their coastal waters and interests.

U-2R Spy Plane: Lockheed's Black Dragon

The original U-2 first appeared in the 1960's when Francis Gary Powers was shot down in May 1960 over Russia. Further appearances where made throughout the Vietnam War and the TR-1 version known as the "Dragon Lady" was used for battlefield surveillance during the 1980's. The TR-1 was designed to monitor international arms agreements and potential enemy forces around the world for the United States government. The wing pods, detachable nose cone, and fuselage carry the radar, photographic, and electronic sensors used by the U-2R. The original U2 aircraft was designed by the famous skunk work designer Clarence L. Johnson and first flew in 1955. The first U-2R which was an enlarged version of the original U-2 first flew in 1967 and although the aircraft design is over 50 years old, only a few other aircraft have flown higher.
The distinctive black paint and gentle manoeuvres of the U-2 gave it the famous nickname "Dragon Lady". The huge wings allow the U-2 to fly to extreme altitudes and extensive distances, but this also makes its wings very fragile and the pilot has to be very careful not to overstress them. The aircraft paint contains iron which significantly reduces the spy planes radar signature. The U-2 has been described as a giant jet powered glider and like a glider it is very efficient in the sky, but it is also a very difficult aircraft to land. The landing procedure involves a second aircraft flying behind the U-2 and providing constant updates on the approach to assist the pilot. The cramp cockpit and bicycle type landing gear add to the challenge of landing the aircraft safely. Once landed the wing tips topple over and slide on specially designed skids. When the aircraft comes to a stop ground crews attach the pogo wheels to allow the U-2 to taxi.
The modern day U-2R has been updated with state of the art reconnaissance equipment and microchip flight technology. The pilot wears an astronaut style pressure suit and the aircraft can loiter for hours at altitudes higher than most aircraft can fly. To remain as unseen as possible the pilot has a mirror in the cockpit that allows them to see if the aircraft is creating contrails and adjust the speed or altitude to eliminate it. Originally powered by two Pratt and Whitney J75 engines the U-2R was given new General Electric F101 engines similar to the B-2 Stealth's engines and renamed the U-2S. The Q-Bay which houses all the high powered cameras is located directly behind the cockpit and the bottom bay door contains glass windows to facilitate the camera lenses. The Cockpit is fully pressurized, but at the altitudes that the U-2 pilots fly a depressurisation would kill the pilot almost immediately so a suit similar to a NASA astronaut is wore for emergencies. NASA operates two ER-2 airframes for high altitude research into the ozone layer and for studying the earth's crust. The U-2 is truly a remarkable aircraft and continues to play a key role in environmental research and for reconnaissance missions for the US Armed Forces.

A Memorial Day Tribute Honouring Our Military

As Americans, how do we truly show our appreciation, gratitude and thanks to members of our armed services? They are on duty twenty-four hours a day, three hundred and sixty-five days a year. The work they do is often hand tied by the (shiny pants) in Washington D.C. who put all manner of restrictions upon them, while expecting the best results, which in my mind would be Victory, but frequently that word is not considered politically correct.
While it is true that some Americans pay tribute to our Military on Memorial Day, the Fourth of July or Veterans Day, too often these dates are considered part of a three-day weekend. How much recognition do we give to the fact that, without the sacrifice of those who served and continue to serve, Americans would not be able to celebrate Freedom and enjoy the benefits of a three-day weekend?
In a recent conversation, with a friend who is a Retired Marine, our discussion centered on military benefits, during the discussion I became aware that military personnel after serving twenty years in the service receive only 50% of their pay. It is true they will have veteran's medical benefits, and privileges at the base shopping, and a few other odds and ends, but this is what we provide to them after they have risked their lives to protect our freedom. In many instances, they have endured horrendous conditions, along with separation from their families, let us not forget they will never be able to recapture those familial times. Many will return home unable to find work, others will be alive, but disabled, while others have and will continue to make the ultimate sacrifice.
On the other hand, in Washington D.C. we have our illustrious politicians, who live in relative safety (protected by those men and women who serve) these politicians are the ones who pass laws that they may or may not have read. Many laws they pass pertain to our Military, and in my opinion these laws often obstruct military efforts that otherwise would have resulted in immediate and decisive Victories on the battlefield. These politicians, in turn, have all manner of benefits from limousines to tax paid junkets, and so many other benefits too numerous to mention, a material lifestyle that is enviable to most, yet they can retire after four (4) years with a pension that is equal to full pay.
There are rumblings among Americans from all walks of this Great Nation that we should have a 28th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America, it should read similar to the following.
Proposed 28th Amendment to the United States Constitution: "Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to United States Senators and/or Representatives; and, Congress shall make no law that applies to United States Senators and/or Representatives that does not apply equally to the citizens of the United States."
Memorial Day is almost here, what a wonderful tribute to our Military if we could at least get an amendment, similar to the one stated in this article, on the floor of the House of Representatives. By calling our Representatives, we could get the ball rolling, or at least let them be aware that we find this behaviour inexcusable.
As I have said before. To the generations that have already given, to those who even today continue to give and put their lives on the line, make no mistake, future generations will never be able to repay you. You are missed, you are to be treasured, and honored not just one day of the year but every day.

NATO and G8 Conference Security - How Safe Are They

Apparently, the G8 conference location has been moved from Illinois, Chicagoland, to Camp David. Why you ask? Because Russia's Putin didn't feel it was safe in Chicago. May I be so bold as to ask; why? Does Mr. Putin know something we don't know, after all he is former KGB, and understands the spy game, he also knows that the United States is still under international terrorist threats. In fact, Russia is intermingling with many of those terrorist organizations, just as we are perhaps. And just as Syria, Iran, and some of our other foes are.
Even though the G8 conference has moved locations, the NATO Congress will be held in Chicagoland, and if something does happen, perhaps we could ask Putin who was involved after the fact? That's a scary thought, but things just don't seem right in light of the changes being made presently. Okay so, let's talk about this for second, let me offer you some more evidence, and no, this isn't a conspiracy theory, but we all know that the world is filled with less than desirables, who certainly don't have the United States' best interests in mind.
The New York Times published an interesting article on May 10, 2012 titled; "Putin to Skip Group of 8 Session, Delaying Postelection Meeting With Obama," by Helene Cooper and Ellen Barry. Putin stated that he would not attend the meeting;
"Noting his responsibilities to finalize cabinet appointments in the new Russian government, President Putin expressed his regret that he would be unable to attend the G-8 Summit at Camp but welcomed the participation of Russian Prime Minister Medvedev at the G-8 Summit." The White House said that Mr. Putin and Mr. Obama would meet next month at the next big meeting of world leaders, in Los Cabos, Mexico."
Why is it that Putin will not meet with President Obama on US soil - that does not sound much of a reset to me? Is he afraid it might send the wrong message to his loyalist former Soviet followers, then one must ask if he is attempting some sort of Russian Communist revival through hardcore nationalism? Is meeting in Cabos, Mexico some sort of appeasement by the Obama Administration, allowing Putin dictate the terms and location of the meeting? Is that city even safe with regards to narco-terrorists, FARC infiltration, drug lords, and the like? Again, I dare to ask the questions because apparently no one else is.
If these meetings of world leaders cannot be held safely, and if it is not safe to meet in the United States of America, then perhaps it's time we bring on holographic technology, and leave everyone in their own domain, country, and where they feel the safest and in control. Indeed I hope you will please consider all this and think on it.
Update as of the publishing of this article: May 12, 2012, "Riot Gear, Sound Cannons for Chicago NATO Summit," and 10s of 1000s of demonstrators will be in Chicago to protest the annual NATO conference, and police are preparing with the help of one million dollars' worth of weapons and riot gear.

US Military Bases With Contract Libraries - Hey Wait One Minute

Not long ago, I was talking to a high ranking military retired veteran who had gone to the local military base commissary, and stopped in at the base library. He was beside himself and flabbergasted when he learned that the base library was getting rid of all their old books, and contracting with an outside company to run the base library. They were not selling the old books, they were giving them away, or throwing them in the trash. He rescued as many as he could put in his pickup truck. Okay so, I'd like to explore this problematic event for a moment if I might.
You see, getting rid of all the old history books is actually the same is getting rid of our history. If those who are serving in our military cannot know of their parent's and grandparent's era, or what really happened in World War II, and are forced to read newer history books with second or third hand knowledge, then they aren't learning history at all. They are learning a mild watered-down version of military history. Further, what's that famous saying; "those who fail to learn their history, are doomed to repeat it."
Well, let's take this one step further then, if you are learning a watered-down version of history, you aren't actually learning the real history, therefore you are guaranteed to be doomed to repeat the actuality of that past period - do you see my point here? Why on Earth would we get rid of old military history books at the library on any military base? Even the scholars that study history, if they weren't there, they are once removed from what actually happened. That's quite unfortunate.
Now realize, I have nothing against the company who has won the contract to service the libraries on base, and I do believe that military base libraries are very important to keep open. I applaud the government and military for saving budget money. But to replace all of those old books with new ones, and to throw them away like that, well to me, that's just unthinkable. Incidentally, I do have a number of military books myself, and I realize that one day my home may look more like a museum with all of those paper books, in the new era of e-books.
Nevertheless, it seems insane to toss out perfectly good books, just because the libraries are switching over to independent contractors, rather than being run in-house by military librarians. I realize that many of the colleges and universities are also going to contract libraries, and perhaps that's where the military got the idea, but I can't say I believe that's a good way to play it at the University or at our military bases.

Shouldn't We 3D Print Munitions on Aircraft Carriers

Five or six years ago I wrote a piece about RFID tags on bombs and missiles which would upon takeoff from the catapult of an aircraft carrier delete themselves from the inventory. From there this data would be incorporated in the logistical chain, where those munitions would be reordered. This would prevent challenges with the supply chain, and give plenty of opportunity for the military, ensuring they always had an adequate supply as the current supply ran out. Today, we have new technologies, or rather old technologies which have now advanced that present an even better choice. Let me explain.
With 3-D printers, we should be able to print the cases, bodies, and fins on the bombs and missiles that are loaded onto the attack helicopters and jet aircraft aboard an aircraft carrier. It is much easier to take the material in a giant Hopper and print the parts you need, as that would save significant space. If it were done properly, the aircraft carrier would never actually run out of ordinance or munitions. We have the technology to do this, it's relatively simple stuff, and all we need to do is to have the sensors, brains, and electronics available in a plug and play fashion for the newly molded weapons being created on the spot.
Now then, am I the first person to think about this? Well, surely I am not, and it makes sense, and thus, it will happen in the future, perhaps not exactly as I've outlined. This may also help with ensuring that we never run out of Tomahawk missiles during long deployments, or have to worry about politics as usual making it difficult to get what we need in times of political impasse, or in the event that the United States or our allies are threatened by a rogue nation state or enemy while Congress and the Administration is busy in-fighting.
Additional aircraft parts, or just about anything we need could be created on the spot, and hopefully recycled when it wasn't needed. And back into the hopper or pile of granulars the former object would go. Are you beginning to see the beauty in such a future for our military which is facing huge budget cuts, and supply chain challenges?
We have relatively inexpensive 3-D printers that are able to print 1 m high, and by putting the object being created on a sliding table, the 3-D printer could construct an entire missile body. That missile body would then be heated to the proper temperature, and we are all good to go. Indeed I hope you will please consider all this and think on it.

How Can Air Force Intelligence Help to Win Wars

Members of the armed forces make a huge difference in helping to win wars against other countries. The intelligence that the air force uses and gathers proves to make an impact on the outcome of wars. The Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency was first started on June 8th, 2007. This agency helps to plan and integrate special operations, exploitation, and dissemination systems on ongoing military operations. Through the Air Force intelligence agency, military members are trained to conduct surveillance operations around the world. Today, members of the ISR are based at around 65 locations world wide.
There are many ways in which the intelligence of the armed forces helps to win wars. Made up of two centers and several different wings, ISR members work together to bring justice when it is due. The National Air and Space Intelligence Center works to gain intelligence on foreign weapons, systems, and air forces. Ground units are also used to investigate and gain information about potential battle spaces. The Air Force Technical Applications Center works to detect nuclear events worldwide, including activity in the water, in space, or in the atmosphere. The 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing gathers information for operations and works side by side with the National Security Agency. The 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing handles intelligence data, performs intelligence activities, and works on imagery intelligence.
When fighting wars, it is extremely important for the military to have the best intelligence and surveillance possible. Working together, each branch of the ISR gathers information that can help the country win wars. For example, knowing if another country is attacking with nuclear weapons before it reaches the country, can help to have the ability to shoot them down before they can pose any potential danger. The intelligence of the Air Force are able to gain information through surveillance techniques that may not have been acquired otherwise. This gives the country an inside scoop of potential threats and attacks that could be made against us during war.
War is always a dangerous battle, but with the help of the ISR, it makes it more possible to win a war that is started anywhere in the world. While the winner of a war can never be determined in advance, the top ranked intelligence and surveillance official providers of Europe give the country a much better chance at winning and protecting their land.

Air Force Intelligence has changed the way strategic military decisions are made; read more on our web site.

C4ISR Technologies Play a Vital Role in the Everyday Lives of Military Personnel

Military technology is a constantly evolving sphere of activity and most nations try to stay ahead in the military technology game by spending a lot of money and labor in inventing new weapons systems. The C4ISR technologies stand for Command, Control, Communication, and Computers. The ISR stands for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance. Hence, it is a comprehensive technology and it is constantly involved in the development of the latest weaponry for the future.
When military personnel are in the field, they rely heavily on the equipment they carry. Their weapons and their high tech gear can help to save their own lives and the lives of others as well. Most people are well aware of the fact that these technologies play a vital role in the everyday lives of military personnel. Millions of dollars are spent on research and development so that the boys in the field can get back home safely. The solders carry with them high tech gear with long-range capabilities. The latest satellite phones and communication equipment can play a vital role in the field. The best night vision glasses can help Special Forces mount successful operation even at night. The best electronic sensors are a part of this technology and enable a strike force do its job efficiently.
This technology is always focused on developing lightweight equipment so that the lives of military personnel in the field become much easier. This is cutting edge technology and helps military personnel in even the harshest environments. This technology is often developed with complete cooperation from the best minds in academia and the resources of the government and private companies. All the latest products are fully tested and evaluated before the military personnel in the field are allowed to use it on a daily basis. New technology is emerging all the time and the military is encouraged to try out the latest C4ISR technologies in the field.
There is a new device called the Digital Alert Display that can be worn on the wrist by a soldier. This device is silent and allows soldiers in the field to communicate via written text massages. It is a lightweight device and a soldier's hands remain free so that he can use a weapon anytime. Such technologies can play a pivotal role in the success of a mission. This technology is now a necessity and its importance cannot be ignored in modern warfare

New C4ISR Capabilities

We are entering a new era where the C4ISR is developing even stronger capabilities than in the past. This is military technology that has existed for a long time, but the difference is that recently there have been major improvements. The military has been increasing its funding in this area.
With the new enhancement of this technology, we are finding a wider application even in the civilian sector. For example, what this technology will be able to do is aid in homeland security and law enforcement. It will also be able to help with managing the environment and will be able to improve the health of the general public. The expectations for this technology are incredibly high.
This technology is excellent at collecting data:
Massive amounts of data in fact. It has always utilised multiple sensors, databases and other sources in order to collect data. The new enhancements will mean that these sensors are smaller, and that the data collected will be more effective than in the past. This is a revolutionary step forward for the military.
This technology will be able to be placed on a soldier's helmet. It will also be able to fly on satellites, aircraft and UAVs. It can even ride on a ship. With all these abilities, it is no wonder that the government is big on funding this. It will be able to change the way things are done and make it safer. In the past, a special team of soldiers had to be sent into remote and dangerous locations. However, with this new technology there may not be as big of a need for that any longer.
Promotes greater awareness:
This technology will be able to offer situation awareness, and it will also be able to analyze the terrain more efficiently before military missions. This will help to improve the efficiency of military missions, and will be able to cut back on the injury to military personnel.
This technology will be able to take notice of troop movements early on in order to warn the possible victims ahead of time. It will be able to save lives, and there is nothing more important than that.

US Approaches to Improving C4ISR

When it comes to Command, Control, Communication, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance or what is commonly called as C4ISR; the United States of America has taken the necessary steps to embrace innovation to ensure national security and stability. The latest initiatives of the military forces of the United States of America are focused on the use of UAVs or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and UAS or Unmanned Aircraft Systems for ISR or Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions. The US Military Forces including the Army, Navy and Air Force are all focused at acquiring, enhancing and deploying UAVs and UAS to improve C4ISR these days.
The US Army has recently gained a contract worth millions to AeroVironment to supply Puma small UAS for US Forces in Afghanistan. The said unmanned aircraft systems are expected to be delivered by next month or May. The Puma has ISR capabilities which prove to be useful for tactical units in Afghanistan. On the other hand, the US Navy is looking into employing small UAVs to track down enemies and send the information via a control center which would in turn redirect the cruise missiles. Newer versions of cruise missiles will be capable to handle such directives from the control center. Finally, the US Air Force is looking into upgrading its current Reaper MQ-9 fleet to extend its flight time from 27 to 42 hours. It is a timely initiative considering the budget constraints prove to limit the Air Force's capability to add more UAV s at this point.
In addition, the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency or DARPA is looking at minimizing its reliance on satellites for guiding weapons and arms such as missiles and advanced munitions. However, they are looking into adding navigation chips on smart weapons to position, target and navigate them. The integration of navigation sensor chips and other applications may prove to be more advantageous for military purposes. They are easier to design, create, install, utilize and perhaps more cost-effective than other measures which are presently used by the US military.
The high cost of creating, launching and maintaining a satellite has proven to be an important consideration in looking into other sources or options to complete military functions or initiatives. With budget cuts and reduced spending directives, the US military has to check further into improving C4 and ISR capabilities which are innovative, cost-effective but highly efficient. These improvements should be competitive enough compared to other major and ruling countries considering that the US Military Force do not provide defense to its country alone but to all other nations that has become its allies.

Finding the Perfect C4ISR Solutions

The army, navy, and other land and air forces are strongholds that must not be breached. Communication is of utmost importance; the ability to report in real time any and all sudden events and changes as well as accomplishments and acquired results is a must for the government to make informed actions and commands. Today, the choice of communications and information systems lies in the hands of the defense officials who oversee the technology used in their respective fields. With their experience and knowledge, they have gained deep understanding of the equipments necessary for attaining success in any form or part of battle, regardless if it is exchange of information, transmitting tactics, or the like.
The main problem most defense officials encounter today, however, is that the number of C4ISR system manufacturers is continuously increasing. This is in response to the booming need for advanced communication, tactic, reconnaissance, and targeting systems. If choosing the best system has become confusing, then here are some tips that will help you make the right decision:
Price versus Quality:
Prices from established C4ISR system producers are continuously increasing. To avoid overspending, it has now become a smart move to look for individual developers. There are a lot of them offering their services and products today. However, you must remember that cheapest is not always the best. If the providers are offering free trials, demos, or any other way through which you can experience first-hand how the system offered works, take advantage of it and use it as basis for your decision.
EU and NATO Qualification:
The European Union (EU) and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) have released standards for the creation of C4ISR systems. Before purchasing or even trying a system, one trait you must find is its EU and NATO approval; you must be sure that it meets all the requirements or you might suffer from a lacking or totally failing system later on.
Features and Compatibility:
With the continuous advancement in technology, it has become crucial for military organizations to keep abreast and get only highly advanced communications and information systems. In choosing the right system, the number of features, their uses, and their compatibility with current and future infrastructure as well as platform environments (vehicles, aircraft, ships, etc.) must be taken into account. Given that we are now in the time wherein joint and combined operations are the norm and wherein immediate synchronization and distribution is necessary, wireless and satellite-integrated systems should also be considered.

How Can Air Force Intelligence Help to Win Wars

Members of the armed forces make a huge difference in helping to win wars against other countries. The intelligence that the air force uses and gathers proves to make an impact on the outcome of wars. The Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency was first started on June 8th, 2007. This agency helps to plan and integrate special operations, exploitation, and dissemination systems on ongoing military operations. Through the Air Force intelligence agency, military members are trained to conduct surveillance operations around the world. Today, members of the ISR are based at around 65 locations world wide.
There are many ways in which the intelligence of the armed forces helps to win wars. Made up of two centers and several different wings, ISR members work together to bring justice when it is due. The National Air and Space Intelligence Center works to gain intelligence on foreign weapons, systems, and air forces. Ground units are also used to investigate and gain information about potential battle spaces. The Air Force Technical Applications Center works to detect nuclear events worldwide, including activity in the water, in space, or in the atmosphere. The 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing gathers information for operations and works side by side with the National Security Agency. The 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing handles intelligence data, performs intelligence activities, and works on imagery intelligence.
When fighting wars, it is extremely important for the military to have the best intelligence and surveillance possible. Working together, each branch of the ISR gathers information that can help the country win wars. For example, knowing if another country is attacking with nuclear weapons before it reaches the country, can help to have the ability to shoot them down before they can pose any potential danger. The intelligence of the Air Force are able to gain information through surveillance techniques that may not have been acquired otherwise. This gives the country an inside scoop of potential threats and attacks that could be made against us during war.
War is always a dangerous battle, but with the help of the ISR, it makes it more possible to win a war that is started anywhere in the world. While the winner of a war can never be determined in advance, the top ranked intelligence and surveillance official providers of Europe give the country a much better chance at winning and protecting their land.

C4ISR Technologies Play a Vital Role in the Everyday Lives of Military Personnel

Military technology is a constantly evolving sphere of activity and most nations try to stay ahead in the military technology game by spending a lot of money and labor in inventing new weapons systems. The C4ISR technologies stand for Command, Control, Communication, and Computers. The ISR stands for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance. Hence, it is a comprehensive technology and it is constantly involved in the development of the latest weaponry for the future.
When military personnel are in the field, they rely heavily on the equipment they carry. Their weapons and their high tech gear can help to save their own lives and the lives of others as well. Most people are well aware of the fact that these technologies play a vital role in the everyday lives of military personnel. Millions of dollars are spent on research and development so that the boys in the field can get back home safely. The solders carry with them high tech gear with long-range capabilities. The latest satellite phones and communication equipment can play a vital role in the field. The best night vision glasses can help Special Forces mount successful operation even at night. The best electronic sensors are a part of this technology and enable a strike force do its job efficiently.
This technology is always focused on developing lightweight equipment so that the lives of military personnel in the field become much easier. This is cutting edge technology and helps military personnel in even the harshest environments. This technology is often developed with complete cooperation from the best minds in academia and the resources of the government and private companies. All the latest products are fully tested and evaluated before the military personnel in the field are allowed to use it on a daily basis. New technology is emerging all the time and the military is encouraged to try out the latest C4ISR technologies in the field.
There is a new device called the Digital Alert Display that can be worn on the wrist by a soldier. This device is silent and allows soldiers in the field to communicate via written text massages. It is a lightweight device and a soldier's hands remain free so that he can use a weapon anytime. Such technologies can play a pivotal role in the success of a mission. This technology is now a necessity and its importance cannot be ignored in modern warfare.

New C4ISR Capabilities

We are entering a new era where the C4ISR is developing even stronger capabilities than in the past. This is military technology that has existed for a long time, but the difference is that recently there have been major improvements. The military has been increasing its funding in this area.
With the new enhancement of this technology, we are finding a wider application even in the civilian sector. For example, what this technology will be able to do is aid in homeland security and law enforcement. It will also be able to help with managing the environment and will be able to improve the health of the general public. The expectations for this technology are incredibly high.
This technology is excellent at collecting data:
Massive amounts of data in fact. It has always utilised multiple sensors, databases and other sources in order to collect data. The new enhancements will mean that these sensors are smaller, and that the data collected will be more effective than in the past. This is a revolutionary step forward for the military.
This technology will be able to be placed on a soldier's helmet. It will also be able to fly on satellites, aircraft and UAVs. It can even ride on a ship. With all these abilities, it is no wonder that the government is big on funding this. It will be able to change the way things are done and make it safer. In the past, a special team of soldiers had to be sent into remote and dangerous locations. However, with this new technology there may not be as big of a need for that any longer.
Promotes greater awareness:
This technology will be able to offer situation awareness, and it will also be able to analyze the terrain more efficiently before military missions. This will help to improve the efficiency of military missions, and will be able to cut back on the injury to military personnel.
This technology will be able to take notice of troop movements early on in order to warn the possible victims ahead of time. It will be able to save lives, and there is nothing more important than that.
Summary:
With the recent enhancements of the C4ISR technology, we will be able to revolutionise the way the military is able to conduct reconnaissance missions. It will be able to be done in a safer and more effective manner.

US Approaches to Improving C4ISR

When it comes to Command, Control, Communication, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance or what is commonly called as C4ISR; the United States of America has taken the necessary steps to embrace innovation to ensure national security and stability. The latest initiatives of the military forces of the United States of America are focused on the use of UAVs or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and UAS or Unmanned Aircraft Systems for ISR or Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions. The US Military Forces including the Army, Navy and Air Force are all focused at acquiring, enhancing and deploying UAVs and UAS to improve C4ISR these days.
The US Army has recently gained a contract worth millions to AeroVironment to supply Puma small UAS for US Forces in Afghanistan. The said unmanned aircraft systems are expected to be delivered by next month or May. The Puma has ISR capabilities which prove to be useful for tactical units in Afghanistan. On the other hand, the US Navy is looking into employing small UAVs to track down enemies and send the information via a control center which would in turn redirect the cruise missiles. Newer versions of cruise missiles will be capable to handle such directives from the control center. Finally, the US Air Force is looking into upgrading its current Reaper MQ-9 fleet to extend its flight time from 27 to 42 hours. It is a timely initiative considering the budget constraints prove to limit the Air Force's capability to add more UAV s at this point.
In addition, the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency or DARPA is looking at minimizing its reliance on satellites for guiding weapons and arms such as missiles and advanced munitions. However, they are looking into adding navigation chips on smart weapons to position, target and navigate them. The integration of navigation sensor chips and other applications may prove to be more advantageous for military purposes. They are easier to design, create, install, utilize and perhaps more cost-effective than other measures which are presently used by the US military.
The high cost of creating, launching and maintaining a satellite has proven to be an important consideration in looking into other sources or options to complete military functions or initiatives. With budget cuts and reduced spending directives, the US military has to check further into improving C4 and ISR capabilities which are innovative, cost-effective but highly efficient. These improvements should be competitive enough compared to other major and ruling countries considering that the US Military Force do no

t provide defense to its country alone but to all other nations that has become its allies.