Manfred Held
This paper presents a measuring technique by the application of argon flash bombs, which allows photography of fragments or pellets as illuminated points with a simple Polaroid camera. This method enables rapid measurement of fragment or pellet pattern—space and velocity distribution—in acceptance tests in spite of the small size of the fragment, such as only 2.4 mm diameter. This method does not need extensive test facilities, large amounts of test materials, nor protracted evaluation time for the analysis, and can be conducted on a test range.
Kari M. Reunamaki
The 120 mm mortar concept is going through major changes. What used to be a simple indirect fire weapon for the support of infantry units is nowadays something much more. Already when simply mounted on a chassis the mortar opens up new possibilities, which the armies around the world are just starting to realise. When the concept is further developed the possibilities are even greater. This paper describes the AMOS (Advanced MOrtar System) developed by the joint-venture company Patria Hagglunds Oy. AMOS is a twin-barrelled, breech-loaded, mortar turret suitable for integration to medium-sized (10–25 ton) wheeled or tracked armoured vehicles. The two-man turret has armament comprising two independent 120-mm smoothbore mortars mounted into a common cradle with an equilibrator and a loading device. The mortars fire conventional 120-mm, smoothbore, fin-stabilised ammunition. Special ammunition, such as cargo and guided ammunition, can directly be used as these were originally developed for smoothbore barrels. The mobility and protection of the APC chassis supports vehicle survivability in the modern battlefield. AMOS is characterised by its extremely high rate of fire that gives high impact on target—the maximum rate of fire is up to 26 rounds/min and the number of rounds in MRSI (multiple rounds simultaneous impact) is as high as 14. The lethality is therefore higher than with any other mortar systems. The Journal of Battlefield Technology is issued three times per year, in March, July and November. Subjects are presented under the broad headings of Firepower, Mobility, Command Systems, Surveillance and Target Acquisition, Training and Analysis, and Management. However, any topical battlefield issue of a technical nature is suitable for inclusion.
Alan Nott
This article provides some insight into the complexity of the management issues associated with personnel electromagnetic radiation hazards (RADHAZ). The nature of the adverse effects of electromagnetic radiation on the human body is briefly discussed. The rationale behind the derivation of safe exposure levels is presented. Methods of estimation of specific absorption rate (SAR) are discussed, and data showing variation of SAR distribution within a standing body in a uniform field are illustrated. Computer modelling strategies for personnel RADHAZ investigations are discussed, including the creation of whole-body models, a methodology for manipulating body models to anatomically realistic stances, as well as the range of other factors and effects that need to be considered. Some images are included, showing computed field distributions from a generic manpack radio with the wearer standing and prone. An appendix discusses current personnel RADHAZ standards, policy and management within the Australian Defence Organisation (ADO).
Michael K. Lauren and Roger T. Stephen
New Zealand’s Defence Technology Agency (DTA) has developed a model to explore new methodologies for modelling warfare. The model, Map-Aware Non-Uniform Automata (MANA), is based on the ideas of complexity science, and is intended to capture at least some of the non-linear dynamics inherent in actual combat. It does so by treating the many “intangible” aspects of combatant behaviour in terms of simple rules subject to a stochastic process. It is evident by examining the model that even simple rules lead to complex behaviour. The simple nature of the model allows both rapid parameter space exploration and experimentation with co-evolving tactics, yet it has enough sophistication to produce realistic looking behaviours and tactics. This paper discusses the model and its philosophy.
Michael R. Bathe and Jeremy D. Smith
The Strategy to Task Technique (STT) is an approach used to develop low-level, often system-specific, requirements for a system or capability through a process of decomposition. The approach, which is often implemented by using the Quality Function Deployment technique as an enabler, begins by utilising high-level statements of requirement, typically national strategic goals, and then mapping responses against these requirements. The responses are generated by using authoritative sources such as doctrine publications. The STT approach has been used on a number of projects and in particular lends itself to capability analysis at a high level. The paper describes the STT technique, including several examples. Some pitfalls and guidelines for its application are also briefly discussed.
Alan C. McLucas
Managing military capability is a complex and challenging task. Circumstances can change rapidly and forces must be prepared. Insuring excessively against short-term threats by raising levels of preparedness has the effect of stifling long-term force structure development: preparedness and force structure development activities compete for the same limited funding. Preparedness work-up activities and weapon systems acquisitions can have incommensurable lead times. This exacerbates the task of delivering military capability in the form of prepared forces with effective weapons systems, at the precise point in time they are needed. This article suggests how system dynamics modelling can help military capability managers better understand the complex dynamics they confront and the consequences of managerial actions taken in this environment, short-term and long-term, intended and unintended, so that they may make informed decisions and choose most cost-effective military capability management strategies.
