Lynneth Posted June 18, 2009 Report Share Posted June 18, 2009 (edited) [OOC: Work in Progress. More to come (eventually) NOTE! Almost all pictures are clickable, leading to big versions! Austria/HRE->GDR changes are basically done. Tell me if I've missed something. Links to each individual post: Wonders Treaties Police&Military Weapons&Equipment Vehicles Navy Airforce Achievements Another OOC Note: I do not recognise wars that are not preplanned although I will recognise unplanned wars IF AND ONLY IF I get involved by proxy. IE; War was never declared on me, but by some strange action, aggressive attacks are made on my people (or allies). I have taken steps to avoid war IC, but that won't stop most people, so once again, if you don't plan the war with me, I don't recognise it. I do not recognise "lulz" RP against or within my nation without prior consent from me. I uphold a polite contact policy. If you have a problem with me, my conduct, or my RP; Do not hesitate to PM me, or, as is more convenient for me most of the time, contact me on MSN. I will get back to you. I do not recognise spy rolls as more than "You manage to infiltrate if you RP it properly". I put time into RPing and detailing my anti spy defenses, if you want to spy on me, RP it. I'll be accommodating, and not just turn you away, I will not godmod, but if you want in, bloody RP it. I do not recognise any RP that undermines my prior RP in my land. You can't go back on how I RP my people, my defenses, or my protocols. If you invade me, I've pages on what my citizens think of different groups and people, you will follow it. You cannot stroll over my defenses. You cannot stroll over my terrain. You cannot ignore that I've done a lot in the last year (sort of) of RPing the same nation. /OOC] Location of the GDR in the world The flag of the GDR The Coat of Arms National Anthem Capital Vienna Government Totalitarian Rational Communist Democratic Republic Formerly (Under Bavaria): - King Maximilian III. (Died of a stroke) - Regency Council (appointed the Regent) Regent Lord Havelock Vetinari (Under Austria/the HRE): King/Emperor Alexander I. Lynneth Sarkara Current Ruler Alexeij Vladimirovich Obama Gross Domestic Product and Government spending GDP: 9,105,702,280,640 Dollars GDP per capita: 78,919.16 Dollars GDP in M: 8,252,403,734,493.38 Mark GDP per capita in M: 71,523.62 1 M = 1.1034 $ Tax rate: 29% Government budget: 15% to mandatory civilian upkeep costs, 14% to education, 12% Environment, 11% to government research grants, 9% to military, 8% to healthcare, 8% to infrastructure expansion, 6% to business, 5% to transport, 5% to police, 4% to total miscellaneous spending, 3% unassigned. Total spending: 2.64 trillion dollars Lands and Population Sex ratio Life expectancy at birth total population: 86.8 years male: 84.6 years female: 90.0 years Literacy Aged 15 years & above Ministers Finance minister - Wolfgang Schäuble Economics minister - Rainer Brüderle Foreign minister - Guido Westerwelle Defence minister - Peter Struck Information minister - Ursula von der Leyen Interior minister - Thomas de Maizière Education minister - Annette Schavan Environment minister - Norbert Röttgen Health minister - Philipp Rösler Justice minister - Sabine Leutheusser-Schnarrenberger Culture minister - Ronald Pofalla Agriculture minister - Ilse Aigner Transport minister - Peter Ramsauer Commerce minister - Kristina Köhler Energy minister - Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg Inland revenue minister - Dirk Niebel Family Affairs - Angela Merkel Edited June 9, 2010 by Lynneth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lynneth Posted June 18, 2009 Author Report Share Posted June 18, 2009 (edited) Wonders of the GDR. Agriculture Development Program The GDR is relatively small nation, but the ground its people walk on is rich and fertile, good for large-scale agricultural programs. The ADP is intended to make German Democratic agriculture highly efficient so that all can be fed more easily. Anti-Air Defense Network Like any respectable nation, the GDR has a network of anti-air defenses. Those of the GDR, however, are highly advanced, using numerous technological advances to extend the effective range of the missiles to almost 500 kilometers, making it capable of shooting planes down before they can fire their payload. National Security Bureau (Central Intelligence Agency) While being largely neutral, the government has recognised that some nations may seek to cause harm to the GDR. This led to the establishment of the NSB, which is mainly tasked with finding enemy agents and rooting them out, making it considerably harder for hostile nations to infiltrate the country and gather information. Disaster Relief Agency While the GDR rarely if ever experiences any natural disasters - aside from the occasional celebration after a good football game or rainstorms - many nations around the world experience these things rather regularly, because of which the DRA was made. Currently, the agency works alone, but there are plans to work together with the White Cross for greater efficiency. Fallout Shelter System Wars happen, the past has proven that. For this, bunkers - not too deep, but not too shallow either, with strong and modern materials - have been built, so that the populace has greater chances of surviving in the event of attacks with weapons of mass-destruction. Numerous of these bunkers are in the Alps, where the granite of the mountains give even greater protection. Some of the mightiest bunkers are under the Schneeberg, the Großglockner and the Zugspitze. Foreign Airforce Base Currently, no Airforce base exists in another country. Walhalla (Great Monument) The Walhalla is a hall of fame for "laudable and distinguished Germans" resp. "famous personalities in German history - politicians, sovereigns, scientists and artists" and "of the German tongue". It was conceived in 1807 by Crown Prince Ludwig I of Bavaria, and when he had become King, was built between 1830 and 1842 by the architect Leo von Klenze. It hosts about 65 placques and 130 busts of persons, covering 2000 years of history, as the oldest person honored is Arminius, victor in the year 9 Battle of the Teutoburg Forest. Luckily, the Nords never as much as touched this monument, and thus it looks like it did a hundred years ago. Frauenkirche of Munich (Great Temple) The Frauenkirche (full name Dom zu unserer lieben Frau, "Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady") is the cathedral of the Archbishop of Munich and Freising and is considered a symbol of this great city. The cathedral has space for about 20,000 standing people, but despite its size is by no means overwhelming, as the interior is cleverly structured with 22 two-row octagonal columns. University of Vienna (Great University) The Universität Wien is located in the the GDR's capital of Vienna and, with more than 74,000 students, the largest university in the GDR. It was established in 1365 and is the oldest university in the German-speaking world and one of the largest in Central Europe. Its rector is Prof. Dr. Georg Winckler, working together with a staff of 12.629 scholars and 967 Professors. The academic facilities of the University of Vienna occupy more than sixty locations throughout the city of Vienna. Hidden Nuclear Missile Silo In a nuclear world, even with many state pledging to never strike first, strong measures must sometimes be taken. Somewhere within the mountains of the GDR, these silos have been built. Expensive, yes, but of great use in a true emergency. Internet While every nation has internet in one or another way, the size of the GDR made it possible to distribute this glorious invention to almost the entire populace, at extremely high speeds rarely seen outside of the country. Mass Rapid Transit (Interstate System) The MRT is a rapid transit system that forms the backbone of the railway system in the GDR, spanning the entire country. The initial section of the MRT is one of the older metro systems in the region. Since the first line, the network has since grown rapidly as a result of the GDR's aim of developing a comprehensive rail network as the main backbone of the public transport system in the GDR with an average daily ridership of 19.34 million in the last year, about half of the bus network's 38.81 million in the same period. The MRT has 15348 stations (84 not in operation) with 60,657.5 kilometres of lines. Manhattan Project The GDR possesses nuclear warheads, up to 2 Megatons per warhead. Mining Industry Consortium The major goals of the MIC are to maximise efficience of resource extraction and, at the same time, to keep damages to the environment as low as humanly possible. Deutscher Demokratischer Filmpreis (Movie Industry) The German Democratic Film Awards (Deutscher Demokratischer Filmpreis) is awarded annually by the Government of the GDR for “exceptional achievement in the GDR's filmmaking.” The German Democratic Film Awards Gala takes place in mid-January at the Cuvilliés Theatre in Munich to honour films released in the previous year, and is one of the most glamourous highlights in the the GDR's film calendar. These awards are endowed with a cash disbursement totaling 400,000 Mark. The largest endowment, at 200,000 Mark, is given with the award for Best Producing, for "the single most exceptional german democratic film that leaves the greatest overall impression." The other awards are each given with endowments of 10,000-25,000 Mark. National Environment Office The NEO is an organisation that originally was made up of numerous smaller faction, spread over all of the GDR. They were only united by a common goal, but did not explicitly work together, which did not help their efficiency. Only a short time ago did they realize that they would be more influential if they banded together, and thus the NEO was born. It quickly achieved nationwide acceptance and was indeed 'promoted' to become an official governmental organisation tasked with keeping the environment of the GDR clear, clean and healthy. they are doing their job admirably, though some corporations do obviously dislike the office, precious money going to such <i>trivial</i> things as air filters and the like. Fraunhofer Society (National Research Lab) The Fraunhofer Society (German: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft) is a research organization with 58 institutes spread throughout the GDR, each focusing on different fields of applied science. It employs over 12,500, mainly scientists and engineers, with an annual research budget of about €18.2 billion. It is named after Joseph von Fraunhofer who, as a scientist, an engineer, and an entrepreneur, is said to have superbly exemplified the goals of the society. The official name of the Fraunhofer Society is Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der angewandten Forschung e. V. (German for "Fraunhofer Society for the advancement of applied research"). Befreiungshalle (National War Memorial) The Befreiungshalle ("Hall of Liberation") is a monument upon Mount Michelsberg above the city of Kelheim in the GDR. It stands upstream of Regensburg on the river Danube at the confluence of the Danube and the Altmühl. It has been built in order to commemorate the victories against Napoleon during the Wars of Liberation that lasted from 1813 to 1815. Ignition Facility 01 (Nuclear Power Plant) Left, the basic layout. The laser pulse is generated in the room just right of center, and is sent into the beamlines (blue) on either side. After several passes through the beamlines the light is sent into the "switchyard" (red) where it is aimed into the target chamber (silver). Three football fields could fit inside the IF. To the right, a simplified diagram of the beampath of a NIF laser beam, one of 48 similar beamlines. On the left are the amplifiers and optical switch, and on the right is the final spatial filter, switchyard and optical frequency converter. Left, A construction worker inside IF's 10 meter target chamber. Almost all of the engineering on the IF laser is on an enormous scale. Right, Exterior view of the upper 1/3rd of the target chamber. The large square beam ports are prominent. Left: The flashlamps used to pump the main amplifiers are the largest ever in commercial production. Right: Laser Bay 2 IF's fuel "target", filled with either D-T gas or D-T ice. The capsule is held in the hohlraum using thin plastic webbing. Despite all these elaborate things, the IF is, in fact, cheaper and more powerful per invested money than any previous kind of fusion power generation. Three more of these plants will be built, the first having been completed days ago. Nowhere else in the world does a construction exist that uses so many lasers. The IF is unique and the first of its kind. IF 01 stands in Innsbruck. Ministry of National Security (Ministerium für Staatssicherheit; StaSi) (Pentagon) The StaSi is entrusted with overseeing all issues concerning the national security of the GDR, be it defensive movements or offensive actions against a hostile country. It also plays a considerable part in Military, Civil, Economic, Social and Psychological defence, strengthening the GDR's citizens as a People. The Amber Guard is subordinate to the Stasi. National Center for Scientific Progress (NCSP) (Scientific Development Center) The NCSP is an institution that was only recently brought to life, during the Austrian Civil War, as the need for high-tech weaponry and technology arose. Since then, the NCSP has already contributed immensely to technological standards in the GDR, incredible things such as the ARCL or IF01 having been developed by this research centre's scientists. One of their greatest achievments was the construction of the gigantic robot 'Sword of the Crown', which contributed greatly to ending the Civil War. And the NCSP's streak of inventions has not stopped. Even now, they develop new and innovative technologies, to make a better tomorrow. Social Security System As it is socialist and rational communist, the government of the GDR realizes that without a working society, a country cannot grow. The SSS was created to strengthen the poor and provide some competition for the richer, ensuring that both sides would try to do their best in strengthening themselves and the economy. (Space Program) [Classified information] DeutschDemokratische Börse AG (Stock Market) DeutschDemokratische Börse AG is a marketplace organizer for the trading of shares and other securities. It also is a transaction services provider. It gives companies and investors access to global capital markets. It is a joint stock company and was founded in 1998. The headquarters are in Vienna, the GDR. GDR Defense Initiative (Strategic Defense Initiative) There are numerour nuclear states in the world, and sometimes, more than fallout shelters are needed. Thus, the GDRDI was established. Its primary means of interception are high-powered electrolasers at high ranges, anti-ballistic missiles as secondary means at medium ranges and high-powered chemical lasers at lower ranges as tertiary defense line. It has been tested before, but it will hopefully never be used at all. National Health (Universal Health Care) The NH is a program that stramlines the health care system in the GDR, to make it more transparent, easier to access and cheaper at the same time. Before, the bureaucratic mess was a nightmare, but thanks to this program, many things have been improved and others will be improves. BMW Weapons Research Program (Weapons Research Complex) The BMW WRP was created by Bayerische Motoren Werke AG in cooperation with the government to propel the GDR ahead of other armies in the world. The program is largely successful, with things such as the ADI or the successful reverse engineering of several Singaporean technologies that have been brought into the country by soldiers that decided to offer their services. In the future, more advancements will be announced, but many are classified at the time. Edited January 25, 2010 by Lynneth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lynneth Posted June 18, 2009 Author Report Share Posted June 18, 2009 (edited) Treaties and Embassies Treaties MDP with Slavorussia Trade&ODP with Tahoe Klosterneuburg Accords - MDP with Lübeck MDoAP with the Phoenix Empire (and thus Holy American Empire) About damn Time treaty - MDP with Republic of Finland MDP - with Norway PEPTO - ODP NAP with Dalmatia - now NAP with Slavic Federation ODP with Caucasia - now NAP with Slavic Federation MDP with Crimea ODP with Athenian Federation Treaty of Linz - MDP with Cochin Schnitzel - MDP with Carthage MDAP with France CEU - Left CEU Trade + Friendship with the Krieg Empire - Krieg fell. EFTA - Left EFTA Hofburg Accords - MDP with Catahata Catahata is DEAAAAAD */Batman* Treaty of München - MDP with Sverige Same with Sverige Treaty of Schnitzel - MDP with the Sarnungian Republic Cancelled Viniland - NAP & Trade - Viniland is gone. People's Republic of China - Austrian-Chinese Beer pact - Cancelled. Treaty of KieVienna - MDoAP with Federal Union of the Slavic Republics - Anarchy in the Slavic Union NAP + Trade with Nippon - Cancelled Embassies From: J Andres - Wilhelm Graf Buryatia - Dr. Sergei Izetbegovic Atlantis - Linus Wellsendorf Great Lakes State - Francis Ed Sverige - Daniel Sentzke Catahata - George Harrison To: J Andres - Johann von Ravensberg Buryatia - Alexander Weltz Atlantis - Maximilian Soweit Great Lakes State - Wolfgang Koch Sverige - Martin Saltz Catahata - Igor Demnach Foreign bases Kythira naval base (Athenian Federation) Exclaves: None. Edited May 21, 2010 by Lynneth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lynneth Posted June 18, 2009 Author Report Share Posted June 18, 2009 (edited) Police force of the GDR The GDR State Police has approximately 270,000 officers and roughly 45,000 civilian employees. By adopting a coordinated and aggressive approach to crime, the GDR aims to guarantee public safety and order, even if it occasionally nets them critique. [GDR police escorting a state guest] Recently, the GDR has finished a police reorganisation that reduced bureaucracy by changing from a four-tier hierarchy (Interior Ministry, Regional Police Authority, Police Department, Police Station) to three levels (Interior Ministry, new Regional Police Authority, Police Station). The old Polizeipräsidien will give way to 30 new areas and the Polizeidirektionen will disappear. [An alcohol control] All police radio and emergency notification networks are wired with the best technology that is available (excepting military tech) to the GDR, including EMP safeties. This makes the the GDR's police force one of the most modern in the world. [Officers during a demonstration] Spezialeinsatzkommando The GDR has seven SWAT (Spezialeinsatzkommando) teams. They are stationed in strategic cities all over the nation to completely cover it as efficiently as possible. The SEKs of South Bavaria and East Austria have a mountain detachment each for operations in the Alps. [Officers during a large demonstration.] Police Support The Police Support Group HQ (Bereitschaftspolizeipräsidium) in Salzburg employs 19,000 officers and civilian staff at 23 Bereitschaftspolizeiabteilungen (BPA), the police schools, the police orchestra and the police helicopter squadron. The BPAs are situated in Munich, Eichstätt, Würzburg, Nuremberg, Königsbrunn, Dachau and Sulzbach-Rosenberg amongst others, and have 34 companies as the state’s mobile police reserve. The helicopter squadron has 29 modern choppers stationed at major airports and airfields, such as Vienna Airport. The GDR has ten basic training schools, five professional development schools and two police dog schools. [An officer regulating traffic] River Police The GDR's River Police is directly subordinate to the Ministry of the Interior. The headquarters is in Nuremberg and has numerous river police stations along the major rivers of the country, such as the Main, Danube or the Main-Danube Canal. It also supports the many police stations that cover the major lakes in the GDR. [From left to right: Delivery of 50 new police vehicles | The same vehicles from another perspective | A modern BMW police car | A single-seat patrol bicycle] [L to R: A police helicopter | An officer informing HQ about an incident] National People's Army (NPA) The NPA's declared motto is "For the Protection of the Workers' and Farmers' Power." The NPA is split into three branches. Landstreitkräfte (LS) Volksmarine (VM) Luftstreitkräfte (LSK) The NPA protects the interests, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the GDR from external threats. It relies on a large pool of volunteers in the active and reserve forces. It has an active strength of 1,889,230 personnel. [Peter Struck | Gen. Wolfgang Schneiderhan] Expenditures Budget 237,658,829,525 $ Percent of GDP 2,59% Percent of Gov. GDP 9% Edited May 8, 2010 by Lynneth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lynneth Posted June 19, 2009 Author Report Share Posted June 19, 2009 (edited) Weapons and equipment of the NPA Advanced Combat Man System The Advanced Combat Man System (ACMS) of the GDR's Army is part of the NPA's move to establish a 3rd Generation fighting force to progressively provide tactical units with network capabilities. The ACMS incorporates carbon-nanotubes with highly advanced sensors that can sense approaching bullets and, through tiny electrical impulses, will stiffen at the approximate impact area, lessening the bullet's deadliness vastly and heightening the survival rate of the average soldier. The whole body is protected by this system which can enhance the physical capabilities of the standard soldier, such as strength or speed. It also comes with a water-filtration system and microtanks in which oxygen is stored, so that a soldier can remain for up to 20 minutes under water with ease. The water-filtration system also functions as air-filter, so that chemical and biological as well as nerve-agents and other gaseous substances are filtered right out of the air the soldier breathes in. Key Components Personal Radio The radio enables soldiers to share information, in the form of data and voice, with other soldiers. It has a built-in Global Positioning System (GPS) that helps the soldier's command headquarters to track his location and that of friendly forces. Communication Keypad This portable keypad, designed for easy data input, also has hotkey buttons such On-Contact and Call-For-Medic to enable quick updates of the team's status to the command headquarters, and request assistance from nearby forces at the push of a button. Portable Computer The brain of the ACMS, the portable computer processes data collected by sensors, GPS, other ACMSs and user input to provide real-time information updates on the battlefield. Head-mounted display (HMD) The HMD can switch its displays from a digital map to satellite images of the terrain to videos captured by the various sensors. Through the HMD, soldiers can see locations of targets and friendly forces which are plotted on the digital map. Weapon Interactor The section commander will also have an additional camera attached to his AAR 21, so that he can capture and send back images to the command headquarters through the quick buttons on the handguard. The sensor also allows him to survey and fire around corners without exposing himself. In addition to the ACMS, soldiers are equipped with remote sensors such as a surveillance ball, a remote-control surveillance car and a key-hole sensor. Deployment of the ACMS Each man of the NPA will be equipped with the ACMS after finishing the second year in the military. This allows each section to function as part of a larger network and tap on the wider resources of the battalion and call for more responsive and precise fire support. GDAR 21 The GDAR 21 (GD Assault Rifle - 21st Century) is a bullpup assault rifle designed and manufactured in the GDR. It was designed and developed over a four-year period and replaced all non-standard ARs by the German Democratic Defence Ministry, NPA, Heckler&Koch (H&K) and Krauss Maffei (K/M). Many of its design features are directly intended to counter the weaknesses of previous assault rifles as encountered operationally by some infantrymen. Design Made of a rugged, high impact polymer, most of the manufacturing is done utilising CNC machines, with ultrasonic welding for the steel-reinforced receiver halves and the gun barrel being cold hammer forged. It uses a modified Kalashnikov/Stoner operating system, boasting higher reliability and lower recoil. The translucent magazine allows precise assessment of current ammo load. The GDAR 21 is also one of the first production assault rifle of its class to incorporate a built-in Laser Aiming Device (LAD; powered by a single AA battery) as standard, which can emit visible or infrared beams. The rifle incorporates various patented safety features, such as a Kevlar cheek plate and overpressure vent that protects the shooter in the unlikely event of a chamber explosion or catastrophic failure. It also has an integral 1.5x optical scope that is built into its carrying handle. The scope aids in target acquisition, particularly under low light conditions. The scope is factory-zeroed, and requires minimal further zeroing to suit different users. This minimizes non-training range time. The on/off switch for the LAD is on the left handguard; when holding the weapon at ready, the left thumb rests naturally on it. Variants Light Machine Gun (LMG) Fitted with an open bolt, it has a heavy 513 mm barrel with an integral folding bipod. Sharpshooter Same as the basic GDAR 21, but has 3.0x optical sight instead of standard 1.5x sight. The sight picture is composed of luminous black paint, allowing easier target engagement at night without use of the LAD. Grenade Launcher (GL) Attached with a H&K 40 mm or M203 grenade launcher. Several sub-variantsprototypes incorporate different targeting modules (or mounted on p-rails) for grenade target acquisition. Known sights to have been used include aiming quadrants, various optical sights and laser fire control systems. P-rail Has a Picatinny rail in place of its integral optical sight. Charging handle is moved to the left hand side of the weapon (Interchangeable with right side). Modular Mounting System (MMS) Has integral optical sight and LAD removed to allow a wide variety of add-on tactical accessories, such as vertical assault grips, tactical lights and reflex sights. Charging handle is moved to the left hand side of the weapon. Similar to P-rail model with exception of shorter barrel. Light Weight Carbine A light weight GDAR 21 variant was revealed during a recent Defence Exhibition held in conjunction with the GD Aerospace Agency. The variant boasts an ultra-short barrel, shorter handguards and an integral holo-dot aiming recticle. A Picatinny rail is used as well. Kampfmesser 2000 The KM2000 (KM designates Kampfmesser, literally "combat knife") is the standard knife of the GDR military, mostly used by the Landstreitkräfte. The knife is manufactured in the GDR by the Eickhorn-Solingen company (aka "Original Eickhorn"). The knife is produced according to regulations by the company Eickhorn-Solingen Ltd. The entire assembly consists of only two components: the laser cut 172 mm Black Kalgard coated, forged 440A stainless steel Westernized tanto blade, and the ergonomic ambidextrous polyamide handle. The entire knife weighs approximately 320 grams. The sheath for the KM2000 is turnable, and includes an adapter to allow it to be mounted onto the MOLLE/PALS load bearing system(s). Later revisions of the KM2000 (as of 2008) use a different stainless-steel alloy with better edge-holding properties, Böhler N695 (HRC 57). MATADOR MATADOR (Man-portable Anti-Tank, Anti-DOoR) is a 90 mm man-portable, disposable anti-armor weapon system developed by the GDR. It is an updated version of the Armbrust design, and operates on the same principles. The development of this weapon began in 2003 and the MATADOR replaced the Armbrust Light Anti-tank Weapon which has been in service for several decades. The MATADOR was developed jointly by the NPA and the Fraunhofer Society, in collaboration with a H&K and Krauss Maffei joint team. Capabilities The MATADOR is among the lightest in its class. The warhead is effective against both vehicle armour and brick walls. The weapon has little backblast, making it safe for operation in confined spaces. It is capable of defeating the armour of most known armoured personnel carriers and light tanks in the world. The dual-capability warhead, when acting in the delay mode, creates an opening greater than 450 mm in diameter in a double brickwall, and acting as an anti-personnel weapon against those behind the wall, offering an unconventional means of entry when fighting in built-up areas. The MATADOR's projectile is largely insensitive to wind due to its propulsion system which results in a highly accurate weapon system. Warhead The warhead can be used in both High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) and High Explosive Squash Head (HESH) modes against armor and walls or other fortifications respectively. Selection is done by extending a probe (simply a fuse extender) for HEAT mode and leaving the probe retracted for HESH mode. Countermass system Similar to the Armbrust, the countermass counteracts the recoil of the weapon upon firing. The countermass consists of shredded plastic which is projected out of the rear of the weapon when it is fired. This plastic is rapidly slowed by air resistance allowing the weapon to be fired safely within an enclosed space. In addition, the positioning of the countermass takes into consideration the centre of gravity of the weapon to ensure good balance for greater accuracy. MATADOR and Armbrust comparison Variants Further variants of MATADOR have also been developed by H&K and K/M, designed primarily for anti-structure use by soldiers operating in dense urban environments. MATADOR-MP Multi-purpose weapon with a warhead effective against a wide variety of ground targets, from light armoured vehicles to fortified positions and urban walls. As with the initial MATADOR, this is achieved with a dual-mode fuze, which has been improved on the MATADOR-MP such that it now automatically discriminates between hard and soft targets rather than requiring the operator to manually make the selection. A dedicated targeting device, mounted on its Picatinny rail, incorporates a reflex sight and laser rangefinder to provide a high hit probability. MATADOR-WB Specialised wall-breaching weapon, featuring an Explosively-formed Ring (EFR) warhead that breaches a man-sized hole, between 75-100cm across, in typical urban walls. MATADOR-AS Anti-structure weapon with an advanced tandem warhead that can also be set between two modes. The anti-emplacement mode uses an enhanced blast effect to defeat structures and fortifications, while the penetratingmouse-holing mode defeats light armoured vehicles and creates mouseholes in urban walls. MATADOR, compared to an older SIMON grenade launcher. DSR-Precision DSR 50 sniper rifle The DSR-Precision DSR 50 sniper rifle is manufactured in the GDR by DSR-Precision Corp.. It is a scaled-up version of the DSR-1 sniper rifle made by the same company, but with certain improvements necessary to handle powerful .50 caliber ammunition, which include hydraulic recoil buffer in buttstock and special 'blast compensator' barrel attachment, which serves as a muzzle brake and also reduces flash and sound of the muzzle blast. The DSR 50 is configured into bull-pup design, with free-floating barrel. The folding bipod is mounted onto upper rails (above the barrel), and the adjustable horizontal front grip is mounted on the lower rails (under the barrel). The rifle features fully ajustable buttsock and cheekpiece. The holder for spare magazine is installed in the front of the triggerguard to decrease reloading time. DSR 50 action features match-grade, fluted barrel that is quickly interchangeable and is fixed into the receiver by three screws. The bolt features six radial lugs that lock directly into the barrel. The barrel is protected by a ventilated aluminium handguard and is fitted with a muzzle brake (very useful when firing full-power magnum loads). The trigger is two-stage, ajustable. H&K M-98 Witwe anti-materiel rifle The Witwe anti-materiel rifle is not meant to be fired without being attached to a vehicle or wearing an AMCS battlesuit (or something similar). Using it without such will most likely result in a dislocated shoulder from the sheer power of the rifle. Miklor MGL Mk.1 40mm grenade launcher The Miklor MGL six-shot 40mm grenade launcher is one of the world's first mass-produced multi-shot 40mm hand-held weapon. Developed by the company Miklor, it entered production in 2003. Since 2006, an improved version of the basic design entered the production, it has been designated MGL Mk.1. Miklor MGL offers significant firepower increase, compared to M79 single shot 40mm launcher. The rapid-fire capability (six shots in less that three seconds) is essential in ambush situations and in quick-pacing urban warfare. The most recent modifications of the Mk.1 launcher are the Miklor Mk.1S and Miklor MK-140. These two launchers differ from original Mk.1 by having stronger, stainless steel frame (as opposed to the original aluminium frame), as well as by having four Picatinny-type accessory rails around the barrel. The difference between Mk.1S and Mk-140 is the length of the cylinder - while Mk.1S retains the original cylinder, the Mk-140 has a longer cylinder, which can accommodate a wider variety of the less-lethal 40mm ammunition, which usually has longer warheads. Both types also an fire all standard 40x46mm 'lethal' ammunition, including HE, HE-FRAG, HEDP and others. The Miklor Mk.1 is a revolver type, hand-held grenade launcher. The six-shot cylinder is rotated by the clockwork-type spring for each shot. The spring is wound manually during the reloading. For reloading, the rear part of the frame (along with the pistol grip) is unlocked and then rotated sideways around the top strut of the frame, until the chambers in the cylinder are exposed for reloading. Once the cylinder is reloaded, the rear part of the frame is rotated back and locked into position. The double-action firing mechanism has a manual safety above the pistol grip. All Mk.1 launchers are fitted with the red-dot type sight, with a range scale. Updated versions, M.1S and Mk.1L, also can be fitted with other types of sights, using a Picatinny rail on the top of the barrel. The top folding shoulder stock has a rubber recoil pad. 425GX ACSW Advanced Crew-Served Weapon automatic grenade launcher The origins of the 425GX Advanced Crew Served Weapon (ACSW), also known as 425GX 25mm Airbursting Weapon System, lie in the several military documents, published in the GDR during the late 1980s. These documents stated that current small arms have reached its peak in development, and the only currently possible way to increase combat effectiveness and single-shot lethality of such weapons is do develop new guns that will fire air-bursting munitions with programmable fuses. Following these conclusions, NPA initiated development of several so-called Objective weapons. After much development, the prime contractor for ACSW program was selected as Fraunhofer Society and H&K. First demonstrated in around 1999 as 25mm OCSW, in 2006 the 425GX ACSW was on advanced stages of development, with several prototypes already tested with live ammunition, including air-bursting rounds. Initial plans called for first NPA units to be equipped with 25mm 425G ACSW weapons by 2008. For added versatility, 425GX can be easily converted to fire .50 caliber machinegun ammunition (12.7x99) with replacement of just 5 parts. The key to greatly increased combat effectiveness of the ACSW system is programmable air-bursting ammunition, which will be used in conjunction with an electronic fire control unit. This ammunition will allow it to precisely engage enemy personnel in open or in cover, without the need for direct impact in the target area. Other types of ammunition proposed for 425GX ACSW are HEAT (with required armor penetration up to 5cm/2in), non-lethal (with tear gas for peace-keeping applications) and training rounds with dummy warheads. The 425GX Advanced Crew Served Weapon is gas operated, rotating bolt locked weapon that uses a differential recoil system for decreased peak recoil. 425GX is a belt fed weapon that fires from open bolt. The belt feed and bolt cycling are operated by conventional gas action. The fire control unit includes zoomable day and night vision channels that output the sight picture to the small display at the rear of the sight. Integral laser range-finder allows for precise range measurement, necessary for automatic point of aim correction and for programming of the air-bursting fuzes. 425GX weapon is fitted with dual, ergonomically shaped spade grips with triggers and fire and sight control buttons. Additional buttons are located at the rear of the sight/fire control unit, below the eyepiece. In standard applications, 425GX can be used either on lightweight infantry tripod, or on vehicle mounts, manually or remotely controlled. For vehicular applications, K/M developed the dual feed option, which allows to select the type of ammunition (anti-personnel HEAB or armour-piercing) at the instant before firing. H&K MG4 The MG4 is a belt-fed 7.62 mm light machine gun designed and developed by the GDR company H&K. The weapon was developed in 2000 and was first seen publicly in September 2002. It has been selected to replace the MG3 general purpose machine gun in the NPA at the squad support level; it will complement the MG3 in other roles. Overall, it is designed to be light, provide maximum safety to the user and function reliably under adverse conditions using a wide range of ammunition from different manufacturers, without the need to adjust the gas system. The MG4 is an air-cooled, belt-fed gas-operated weapon with a positively locked rotary bolt and is somewhat similar in concept to the Minimi light machine gun. Firing is fully automatic only. Safety mechanisms on the MG4 includes a manual safety incorporated into fire mode selector toggle; setting the fire selector lever on the safe position blocks the trigger mechanically and locks the bolt in the $@ed position. When the bolt is not pulled back completely, accidental firing is prevented by an integral, automatic mechanism that prevents the bolt from traveling forward. In addition, the firing pin cannot reach the cartridge primer until the cartridge has been fully chambered. The machine gun is fed from a disintegrating belt and is carried out in two stages from the top left using an enhanced pawl mechanism. Spent cases are ejected downwards, although ejection to the right is an option. The MG4 has a hammer-forged quick-change barrel that can be safely exchanged when hot without the need for protective gloves; the carrying handle serves as the barrel change grip. To reduce the overall length of the weapon for transport, the butt stock can be folded to the left side of the receiver. With the buttstock folded the MG4 remains fully operable. A field cleaning kit is housed within the stock. A folding bipod is provided. Supporting interfaces are integrated into the receiver to allow the MG4 to be mounted on the standard M112A1 tripod for increased accuracy and stability. In its standard form the MG4 is equipped with closed type iron sights with range settings up to 1,500 m in increments of 100 m. Optical or night sights or laser pointers can be mounted on a MIL-STD-193 Picatinny rail located on the receiver feed tray cover. Spear Spear is a third generation anti-tank guided missile developed by the Fraunhofer Society. Overview The Spear is a fire-and-forget missile with lock-on before launch and automatic self-guidance. The missile is equipped with an imaging infrared seeker. The long, extended and medium range versions of the Spear also has the capability of Fire, Observe and Update operating mode, by the use of fiber-optical wire that is spooled between the launch position and the missile. This allows the operator to lock onto a target if the target is not in the line of sight of the operator, switch targets, or compensate for the movement of the target if the missile is not tracking the target for some reason. Furthermore, the missile could also be used for simple observation on the other side of the hill and maybe engage a target of opportunity. The tandem warhead is fitted with two shaped charges, a precursor warhead to detonate any explosive reactive armor and a primary warhead to penetrate base armor. It is replacing aging second generation anti-tank missiles like the MILAN and Dragon in the army. The missile has a soft launch capability which allows the missile to be fired from confined spaces, which is a necessity in urban warfare. Components The Spear is broken down into two separate systems a launching tripod fire control unit, and the missile itself. Together, the system weighs, in the long range variant, around 26 kg. Weight savings are achieved by Spear through the elimination of a dedicated thermal sight, as the system uses the missile's imaging seeker for target acquisition. The purchasing and operating costs of the system are relatively low compared to similar systems. The unit cost of a launcher and of a missile is close to that of the Javelin (which is similar in design, yet lower performance). By using good enough solutions, the system can offer high quality without gold plating. Missile capabilities are similar to those of modern high-end ATGMs. Spear can be operated by infantry teams from the launching tripod, or from standard mounts designed for fast attack vehicles, utility vehicles and APCs, such as the Puma or Luchs. This allows vehicles that are normally not equipped with anti tank weapons to have some form of anti-tank capability. Versions Spear-SR is the short range version of the weapon. It has a range of some 200 - 1400 meters and is intended for infantry use. Spear-MR (also known as Gil) is the medium range version. Its range is 200 - 3,200 meters and is used by infantry and special forces. The weight of the missile is 13.5 kg, and the canister itself weighs 13 kg. The launcher, battery, tripod and the launcher are also used by other land-based versions of the Spear missile family, each weighing 13 kg, 1 kg, 3 kg, and 9 kg respectively. Spear-LR is the long range version. It has a maximum range of 7,000 meters and is used by infantry and light combat vehicles. Spear-ER is the extended range or extra long range version of the weapon. It has a maximum range of 14,000 meters and is intended to also be used against air-targets. It has a larger diameter and is heavier than the other systems, and is usually vehicle mounted. It is used by infantry, LCVs, and helicopters. This version can also be operated in an anti-ship role. The weight of the missile is 34 kg, the launchers are 30 kg and 55 kg respectively for the vehicle and air-launched versions. Edited April 21, 2010 by Lynneth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lynneth Posted June 19, 2009 Author Report Share Posted June 19, 2009 (edited) Vehicles of the LS Luchs IFV The Luchs is a family of tracked NPA armoured fighting vehicles developed by Krauss Maffei. Designed as a replacement for the GDR's aging M113A2 armoured personnel carriers, the Luchs has been operational with the NPA since 2002. In a wide variety of vehicles formats including the Luchs II, Luchs 25 and Luchs 40/50 variations. The Luchs IFV has since been succeeded by the Luchs II, which entered service with NPA in October 2007 A Luchs II with a 30mm Bushmaster II cannon. Description Protection The hull and turret are of all-welded-steel construction with modular passive armour protection. Additional armour protection can be installed with an add-on layer of spaced passive armour. Engine The Luchs is a compact design produced to meet the conditions of GDR terrain where small size can be a great asset when it comes to travelling among plantations, mountains and over roads and bridges not designed for heavy vehicles. The power provided by the 550 hp BMW MF 674 Wa-800 engine to drive its 23 tonnes ensures the Luchs is able to overcome the most difficult terrain. Future upgrades in power ratings can be developed according to needs. The integrated power pack is mounted to the right of the vehicle and can be removed from the Luchs as a complete unit in under 15 minutes. The engine is coupled to the K/M Defense Systems HMPT-500EC fully hydro mechanical transmission, with the final drives being provided by MAN Engineering. The engine compartment is also fitted with an automatic fire detection and dry-powder fire suppression system with a supplementary manual back up. Interior The layout of the Luchs is conventional with the driver at the front left, the power pack situated at the front right and the turret in the center with the troop compartment at the rear. Access to the troop compartment at the rear of the vehicle is by a power-operated ramp, which can operate as an emergency access and exit door. A single hatch is installed over the troop compartment. The driver enters via a roof hatch that opens to the left rear. When driving closed-down, observation is via three day periscopes, while the center periscope can be rapidly replaced by an image-intensification periscope for driving at night. The driver guides the vehicle using a small steering wheel rather than tillers and, as an automatic transmission is fitted, there are just two pedals - accelerator and brake. The instrument panel is mounted on the left, with the transmission selection box on the right. In the turret, the gunner's station is on the right and the commander's station is on the left, each with a single hatch cover. The turret traverses through 360°. Traverse and weapon elevation is by all-electric digital control. Both the gunner and commander have a turret stop button and are able to lay and fire the weapons. The gunner has the turret control box mounted to the right of his position and both turret-crew members have an adjustable seat. The communications equipment is installed in the turret bustle. The basic production models lacks an in-built NBC protection and air conditioning system, but can be fitted if/when needed. Aiming The gunner has a twin-control handles and a day/thermal sight, with a magnification of x8 and two fields of view (high and low), with stadias for the 25mm cannon and 7.62mm coaxial machine gun. The commander has an optical relay from the gunner's sight and a single control handle. The vehicle commander has a further five day periscopes to give observation to the turret front, left side and rear; the gunner has three periscopes (1 x M17 and 2 x L794D) to give observation to the right and rear. Production models Luchs 25 First production model. Armed with 25mm Bushmaster cannon turret and 2 x 7.62mm GPMG. The first Luchs 25 production vehicles were completed in September 2002 and, under the Phase I production contract awarded to Krauss Maffei. Production continued until 2005. A total of 900 were built for the NPA. Luchs 40/50 Variant with Cupola mounted 40mm AGL/0.5-inch HMG twin weapon station and 7.62mm GPMG. Can accommodate up to 11 troops. Approx. 600 were built. Luchs ARV Armoured Recovery Vehicle equipped with a 25 tonne winch and a 30 tonne crane. Luchs AVLB Armoured Vehicle Launched Bridge fitted with an MLC30 bridge that can be launched within 7 minutes by a crew of two (commander and driver) from the internal armoured compartment or via remote control panel. When extended the bridge can be used to span a gap of up to 28 metres. Luchs II In the last years, the Luchs design received an upgrade, resulting in the creation of the Luchs II; jointly developed by the Fraunhofer Society and MAN Engineering. The main turret was upgraded to the 30 mm Bushmaster II cannon and armour was improved. The new cannon has 70% greater armor penetration, while the upgraded armour has 80% greater protection against kinetic or shaped charge warheads. The incorporation of a digital Battlefield Management System has allowed the Luchs II to maintain a higher competency in functionality and survivability by interfacing in real time and sharing information with other linked assets such other army units of the NPA with those of the Air Force and Navy, thereby giving a better all round tactical and situation awareness. The Luchs II has an improved day / night thermal sighting system (DNTSS) with a dual-axis stabilisation system for enhanced target tracking, and an integrated eye-safe laser rangefinder has a range of up to 3km. Upgrades also include air-conditioning, minefield protection and enhancements to the 30mm cannon. Puma (IFV) The Puma is a GDR infantry fighting vehicle. It is replacing the Luchs IFV over the next years. Governing company is PSM Projekt System Management, a joint venture of Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and MAN Landsysteme. The Puma is one of the best-protected IFVs, while still having a high power/weight ratio. General description The Puma, while externally not very different from existing IFVs, incorporates a number of advantages and state-of-the-art technologies. The most obvious of these is the incorporated ability to flexibly mount different armour (see below for details). Another feature is the compact, one-piece crew cabin that enables direct crew interaction ("face-to-face"; like replacing the driver or gunner in case of a medical emergency) and minimizes the protected volume. The cabin is air conditioned, NBC-proof with internal nuclear and chemical sensors and has a fire suppressing system using non-toxic agents. The engine compartment has its own fire extinguishing system. The only compromise of the otherwise nearly cuboid cabin is the driver station, located in a protrusion in front of the gunner, in front of the turret. One measure to achieve the one-piece cabin is the use of an unmanned, double-asymmetrical turret: while slightly off-center turrets are common in IFVs, the Puma's turret is on the left-hand side of the vehicle, while the main cannon is mounted on the right side of the turret and thus on the middle axis of the hull when the turret is in the forward position. The outer hull (minus the turret) is very smooth and low to minimize bullet traps and general visual signature. The whole combat-ready vehicle in its base configuration will be air transportable in the A400M tactical airlifter. Its 3+9 persons crew capability is comparable to other vehicles of comparable weight like the M2 Bradley IFV, and slightly higher as in the Luchs. Armament The primary armament is a MAN 30 mm MK 30-2/ABM (Air Burst Munitions) autocannon, which has a rate of fire of 200 rounds per minute and an effective range of 3000 m. There are currently two ammunition types, directly available via the autocannon's dual ammunition feed. One is a sub-calibre, fin-stabilised APFSDS-T (T for tracer), with high penetration capabilities, mainly for use against medium armoured vehicles. The second is a full-calibre, multi-purpose, Kinetic Energy-Timed Fuse (KETF) munition, designed with the air burst capability (depending on the fuse setting) of ejecting a cone of sub-munitions. Both ammunitions can be chosen differently from shot to shot as the weapon fires from an open bolt, meaning no cartridge is inserted until the trigger is used. The ammunition capacity is 400 rounds; 200 ready to fire and 200 in storage. The smaller 30 x 173 mm caliber (for example in comparison to the Bofors 40 mm gun mounted on the CV9040) offers major advantages because of a much lower ammunition size and weight, and the large number of rounds ready to fire (the CV9040 offers only 24 shots per magazine). The secondary armament is a coaxially mounted 7.62 mm HK MG4 machine gun firing at 850 rounds per minute with an effective range of 1500 m. The ammunition capacity is 2000 rounds; 1000 ready to fire and 1000 in storage. While this is a smaller weapon than the some standards of using a larger caliber MG as secondary armament, it offers advantages because it has a higher rate of fire and the crew can use the ammunition in their individual firearms as well. In situations where needed, the high ammunition load of the main gun enables the vehicle crew to use one or two main gun rounds instead. The gun housing can also host the 7.62 mm MG3. To combat main battle tanks and infrastructure targets such as bunkers, the Puma vehicles are equipped with a turret-mounted Spear LR missile launcher. In addition to the usual smoke-grenade launchers with 8 shots, there is a 6-shot 76 mm launcher at the back of the vehicle for close-in defence. The main back door can be opened halfway and enables two of the passengers to scout and shoot from moderate protection. Protection The Puma was designed to easily accommodate additional armor. It was initially planned to offer three protection classes which are wholly or partly interchangeable. Protection class A is the basic vehicle, at 31.5 tons combat-ready weight air transportable in the A400M. Protection class C consists of two large side panels that cover almost the whole flanks of the vehicle and act as skirts to the tracks, a near-complete turret cover and armor plates for most of the vehicle's roof. The side panels are a mix of composite and spaced armor. It adds about 9 metric tons to the gross weight. Originally, there was also a protection class B designed for transport by rail. However, it became obvious that class C lies within the weight and dimension limits for train/ship transportation, thus class B was scrapped. A group of 4 A400M aircraft could fly 3 class A Pumas into a theatre, with the fourth airplane transporting the class C armor kits and simple lifting equipment. Subsequently, the Pumas could be ready in armor class C within a short time. The basic armour can resist direct hits from 14.5mm rounds, the most powerful HMG cartridge in common use today (and up to twice as powerful as the western de facto standard .50 BMG cartridge) and is capable of defeating simple hollow charge warheads. The front armour is able to withstand 30mm APFSDS projectiles. In protection class C, the flanks of the Puma are up-armored to about the same level of protection as is the front, while the roof armor is able to withstand artillery or mortar bomblets. The whole vehicle is protected against heavy blast mines (up to 10kg) and projectile charges from below while still retaining 450mm ground clearance. Almost all equipment within the cabin, including the seats, has no direct contact to the floor, which adds to crew and technical safety. All cabin roof hatches are of the side-slide type which make them easier to open manually, even when they are obstructed by debris. The exhaust is mixed with fresh air and vented at the rear left side. Together with a special IR-suppressing paint, this aims at reducing the thermal signature of the IFV. Another crew safety measure is that the main fuel tanks are placed outside of the vehicle hull itself, mounted heavily armored within the running gear carriers. While this may pose a higher penetration risk to the tanks, it is unlikely that both tanks will be penetrated at the same time, enabling the vehicle to retreat to a safer position in case of a breach. There is also a collector tank within the vehicle to which acts as a reserve tank in case of a double tank breach. Sensors and situational awareness The Puma offers improvements in situational awareness. The fully stabilized 360° periscope (PERI) with 6 different zoom stages offers a direct glass optic link to either the commander or the gunner. Since this is an optical line it had to be placed in the turret center, one of the reasons why the main cannon is mounted off-center on the turret. Via an additional CCD camera the picture from this line can also be fed into the on-board computer network and displayed on all electronic displays within the vehicle. Besides that, the periscope offers an optronic thermal vision mode and a wide-angle camera with 3 zoom stages to assist the driver, as well as a laser range finder. The whole array is hunter-killer capable; the commander also has 5 vision blocks. The gunner optics, which can be completely protected with a slide hatch, are mounted coaxially to the main gun. The gunner has a thermal vision camera and laser range finder (identical to those on the PERI) and an optronic day sight, rounded off with a vision- and a glass block. The driver has 3 of them, as well as an image intensifier and one display for optronic image feeds. Even the passenger cabin has a hatch and 3 vision blocks on the rear right side of the vehicle, one of them in a rotary mount. The rear cabin also has 2 electronic displays. All in all, the Puma has an additional five external cameras at its rear in swing-mounts for protection while not in use. Apart from the glass optic periscope view directly accessible only by the commander and gunner (but indirectly via the CCD camera), ALL optronic picture feeds can be displayed on every electronic display within the vehicle. The provisions for the rear cabin enable the passengers to be more active than previously in assisting the vehicle crew either directly through the vision blocks and hatches, or by observing one or more optronic feeds. The whole crew has access to the onboard intercom. Mobility Traditionally, IFVs are expected to interact with MBTs on the battlefield. In reality, many IFVs are not mobile enough to keep up the pace of an MBT. The Puma aims to close this gap with several key technologies. Firstly, its compact, lightweight BMW Wankel engine is unusually strong at 1650 hp nominal output, which may make it the most powerful engine in use on an IFV today. Even at the 43t maximum weight in protection class C, it has a similar hp/t ratio to the Leopard 3 MBT it is supposed to supplement. The vehicle has a five-road wheel decoupled running gear and uses a hydropneumatic suspension to improve cross-country performance while reducing crew and material stress by limiting vibrations and noise. The road wheels are asymmetrical, mounted closer to each other at the front. This is to counter the front-heavy balance, inevitable because of the heavy frontal armor as well as the engine and drive train which are also situated at the front. The 500mm-wide steel tracks made by Diehl are of new construction and lighter than previous designs. PzH 2000 The Panzerhaubitze 2000 ("Armoured howitzer 2000"), abbreviated PzH 2000, is a GDR 155 mm self-propelled howitzer developed by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW or simply K/M) and MAN for the National People's Army. The PzH 2000 is one of the most powerful conventional artillery systems currently deployed. It is particularly notable for a very high rate of fire; in burst mode it can fire three rounds in 9 seconds, ten rounds in 56 seconds, and can fire between 10 and 13 rounds per minute continuously, depending on barrel heating. The PzH 2000 has automatic support for MRSI (Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact) for up to 5 rounds. The replenishment of shells is automated. Two operators can load 90 shells and propelling charges in less than 12 minutes. Development A new Joint Ballistics Memorandum of Understanding (JBMOU) for a 52 calibre barrel to replace 39 calibre was nearing agreement. GDR industry was asked for proposals to build a new design with gun conforming to the JBMOU. Of the proposed designs, K/M's was selected. MAN designed the 155 mm 52-calibre ETC compliant gun, which is chromium-lined for its entire 8 metre length and includes a muzzle brake on the end. The gun uses a new modular charge system with six charges (five identical), which can be combined to provide the optimal total charge for the range to the target. Primer is loaded separately via a conveyor belt, and the entire loading, laying and clearing is completely automated. The maximum range of the gun is 80 km with the standard L15A2 round, about 95 km with base bleed rounds, and at least 105 km with rocket assisted projectiles. In April 2006 a PzH 2000 shot assisted shells over a distance of 116 km with a probable maximum range of over 130 km. This gun has a MRSI capability, with five round simultaneous strikes as well as using guided warheads. Wegmann supplied both the chassis, sharing some components with the Leopard 1, and the turret for the gun. The system has superb cross-country performance and considerable protection in the case of counter-fire. The turret includes a phased array radar on the front glacis for measuring the muzzle velocity of each round fired. Laying data can be automatically provided via encrypted radio from the battery fire direction centre. A crew of three was needed for full operation, commander, layer and driver. Wegman eventually won a contract for 585 to be delivered to the GDR's rapid reaction force, followed by at least another 1,910 for the main force. Wegmann and Krauss-Maffei, the two main GDR military tracked vehicle designers, merged in 1998. Currently the there is no 155 mm 52-calibre ETC self-propelled howitzer comparable to the PzH 2000 otherwise from some prototypes that other countries may have. LPzH 2000 The Leichte Panzerhaubitze 2000 (LPzH 2000) is a self-propelled artillery unit armed with a 155 mm howitzer. Developed jointly by the NPA, Fraunhofer Society and Krauss Maffei, it was introduced to the GDR Artillery in 2004. Design The chassis is based on the proven M109 155 mm self propelled howitzer. This has been upgraded in a number of key areas and has a new power pack similar to that fitted to K/M Luchs infantry fighting vehicle (IFV), which is in NPA service, too. The use of common subsystems for the LPzH 2000 and Luchs IFV offers several advantages, including easier training and reduced logistics. The LPzH power pack consists of a SDC MF 674 Wa-802 Wankel engine developing 1100 hp coupled to a K/M Land Systems HMPT-500-3EC fully automatic transmission. The maximum road speed of the LPzH is 110 km/h (limited to 90 for safety purposes), with an operating range of 900 km, its combat weight is of 28.3 tons allows it to use the NPA's current military bridging systems. The LPzH could be deployed by the future A400M Transport aircraft. The turret is fitted with a locally developed 155 mm/39-cal barrel with a muzzle brake and fume extractor. The range of the LPzH's gun would depend on the type of projectile and charge combination used, but is approximately 54 km with the old M107 high explosive (HE) projectile, 63 km with an extended range full bore base bleed projectile and even higher, up to 75 km and more, with a RAM projectile. In addition to smoke, HE and illumination projectiles, the locally developed 155 mm cargo round can also be fired. A semi-automatic loading system is provided to increase the rate of fire and reduce crew fatigue. The fused projectiles are loaded and rammed automatically; the modular charges are loaded manually. The LPzH has a burst rate of fire of three rounds in 20 seconds and a maximum rate of fire of 6 rounds per min. The bustle mounted magazine holds up to 36 155 mm projectiles. The digital fire control system automates the complete projectile loading process and gun laying operation. An ammunition inventory management system keeps track of all on board ammunition as well as ammunition expenditure during firing. The weapon is laid to the target using an automatic fire control system, which includes an on board positioning and navigation system. This can receive target information from the battery or regimental command post. It takes less than 60 seconds to come into action and open fire and 40 seconds to re-deploy. Additional Specifications Special Features - Automatic loading system, enables operation with 4 men crew - Automated targeting based on GPS and Datalink - Datalink system for shared targeting within battalion and information feeding from forward observers. Mobility - Number of road wheel: 7 per side - Climbing side slope : 36° LWH Mark III The LWH Mark III at a military arms convention. Design The Light Weight Howitzer (LWH) Mark III is a helicopter-transportable, towed artillery unit. Developed jointly by the AA, Fraunhofer Society and Krauss Maffei, it was commissioned on 28 October 2005. The 155 mm, 39-caliber ETC Mark III is typically towed, but it is also equipped with an independent Lombardini 9LD625-2 engine unit to provide short-range self-propelled capability of up to 12 km/h (7 mph). It can be lifted by the AAF's CH-47SD "Chinook" helicopter, making it the world's first heli-portable 155 mm howitzer with a self-propelled capability. In addition, the Mk.III can also be transported by the C-130 Hercules tactical airlifter. The Mk.III has a burst rate of fire of three rounds in 24 seconds and a maximum rate of fire of four rounds per minute. It can deliver conventional munitions up to 43 km. Extended range munitions can be fired up to 73 km away. A semi-automatic loading system is provided to increase the rate of fire and reduce crew fatigue. The design of the Mk.III also incorporates several innovative elements. It is built with titanium alloy and aluminium alloy materials that are lightweight and yet able to withstand the recoil force of the 155 mm artillery system. Special recoil management design is also employed to reduce the recoil force to a third lower than conventional 155 mm howitzers. Leopard 3A1 MBT Design & construction The Leopard is the NPA's first serious tank design. Incorporating new armor, weapons, and battlefield management systems it matched only by the latest designs of nations such as Rebel Army or Viniland. Development began in early 2006. A great number of specialists were called in to give their opinions on what was required for the new tank. Lessons learned from battles of other nations in the world plus the weaknesses of their tanks were corrected in the 3A1. At the center of the 3A1 is its revolutionary gun. The M360B is an electro-thermal gun which provides a much higher velocity for KEW rounds. It allows the Leopard to defeat the latest in tank armor, in addition to smashing reinforced bunkers with HEDS rounds. Three machineguns and an automatic grenade launcher provide anti-infantry firepower unmatched by other tanks. This allows the 3A1 to defeat any threat encountered from enemy tanks to swarms of insurgent fighters. Improving upon systems first deployed in the Luchs AFV, the Leopard has the most advance battlefield management and fire control computers. Each tank can wirelessly communicate with another through the Inter-Vehicle Data System (IVDS). At the lowest levels the IVDS helps maintain unit cohesion and for officers the ability to get real time intelligence from unmanned and manned assets. In addition, air strikes, artillery support, and re-supply can be called for over the IVDS. Hardened battlecams with full NVG and FLIR abilities, give the Leopard's tank commander a 360 degree battlefield view. Almost all of the NPA's active Armored Regiments have already been equipped with the Leopard. BMW S-600 Wiesel The S-600 is a new generation surface-to-air missile system, designed for intercepting short- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles with ranges up to 3,500 km and for defense against Airborne Early Warning and Control, Airborne Warning and Control System, and jamming aircraft. With a detection range of 750 km and engaging range of 600 km, the S-600 is able to detect and simultaneously engage up to 10 targets, including aircraft, cruise missiles, and supersonic ballistic missiles. Furthermore, it has heightened capabilities to counter stealth aircraft. Its radar system possess advanced capabilities against low flying and low RCS targets. BMW BM-30 Schmarrn The BM-30 "Schmarrn" is a GDR heavy multiple rocket launcher. The system is designed to defeat manpower, armored and soft-skinned materiel in concentration areas, artillery batteries, command posts and ammunition depots. The main components of the RSZO 9K58 "Schmarrn" system are the following: rockets 9M55 or 9M528 (in containers); BM 9A52-2 launch vehicle; TZM 9T234-2 transloader with a 850kg crane and 12 spare rockets; automated fire control equipment in the command post 1K123 "Vivary"; maintenance vehicle PM-2-70 MTO-V; set of arsenal equipment 9F819; training facilities 9F827 and 9F840. The 300mm rockets with a firing range of 90 and 110 km and various warheads have been developed for the Schmarrn MLRS. The 9A52-2 vehicle with the automated system ensures: delivery of fire from an unsurveyed fire position; laying of the launch tube cluster with the crew staying in the cabin and without using aiming points; autonomous determination of an azimuth of the launch tube cluster’s longitudinal axis; visual representation of graphical information for the launch tube cluster laying, the route of vehicle movement and location as well as a point of destination and direction of movement on the video terminal; increase in MLRS survivability owing to reduced time of staying at a fire position; increased comfort for the laying operator, especially in adverse weather conditions and at night; increased independent operation owing to the navigation and survey equipment, which allows the vehicle to rapidly change fire positions and move autonomously; reduction of the combat crew. Edited December 20, 2009 by Lynneth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lynneth Posted June 20, 2009 Author Report Share Posted June 20, 2009 (edited) Navy of the GDR [Note: VMS means "Volksmarineschiff", which translates to "People's Navy ship". Railgun sizes: 60 mm * 252 mm = heavy; 13 kg tungsten rods 50 mm * 210 mm = medium; 8 kg tungsten rods 40 mm * 198 mm = light; 4 kg tungsten rods] Volker class Corvette VMS Volker VMS Erich VMS Joachim VMS Markus VMS Wolfram VMS Philipp VMS Stefan VMS Eugen VMS Heinz VMS Dieter VMS Jakob VMS Benedikt VMS Karl VMS Arnold Hindenburg class Battleship VMS Hindenburg VMS Ebert VMS Simons VMS Luther VMS Heuss VMS Lübke VMS Heinemann VMS Scheel VMS Carstens VMS Weizsäcker VMS Herzog VMS Schröder Regensburg class Cruiser VMS Regensburg VMS Ingolstadt VMS Wels VMS Salzburg VMS Linz VMS Klagenfurt VMS Villach VMS Maribor VMS Rijeka VMS Koper VMS Nürnberg Münchberg class destroyer The Münchberg destroyer is a state-of-the-art air defence destroyer programme of the VM. The first ship in the class, VMS Münchberg, was launched on 1 February 2006 and was commissioned in 2008. The Münchbergs take advantage of some Horizon development work and utilise the Sea Viper missile system (the SAMPSON radar variant of the Principal Anti-Air Missile System). After the VMS Münchberg's launch on 1 February 2008, Vice Admiral Hans-Joachim Stricker stated that it would be the VM's most capable destroyer ever, as well as the world's best air defence ship. Design The Münchberg destroyers are 152.4 m in length, with a beam of 21.2 m and a draught of 7.4 m. This makes them significantly larger than the Lütjens class they replace, displacing about 7350 tonnes compared to 5200 tonnes of the Lütjens. The Münchberg destroyers are the first GDR warships built to meet the hull requirements of Naval Register's Naval Rules. MAN Marine is the Design Authority for the Münchberg. The Münchberg incorporates signature reduction features, including the elimination of right angles and reduced equipment on deck. The infrared signature is reduced by cooling devices on the funnels. The design of the Münchberg brings new levels of radar signature reduction to the NKB, with the reduced deck equipment producing a very "clean" superstructure similar to the Würzburg class frigates. Berthing equipment and life rafts are concealed behind superstructure panels and the mast is very sparingly equipped externally. Systems Electronics & armament * Anti-air o Sea Viper missile system + SAMPSON multi-function air tracking radar + S1850M 3D air surveillance radar + 48 x MBDA Aster missiles (mix of Aster 15 and Aster 30) in six 8-cell SYLVER A50 (Systeme de Lancement Vertical) vertical launchers. * Guns o 1 x BAE Systems 40 mm Mk 8 mod railgun. The Münchbergs are designed to accommodate a 25 mm railgun upgrade currently being studied by the HRNF. o 2 x Oerlikon 30 mm KCB guns on single DS-30B mounts o Fitted 2 x Phalanx 20 mm close-in weapons systems * Anti-ship o The Münchberg has the provision for a pair of quadruple RGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missile launchers, but there are currently no plans to fit this system. o The embarked Lynx HMA 8 helicopter is capable of carrying Sea Skua anti-ship missiles. o The 40 mm Mark 8 railgun has an anti-ship role. * Anti-submarine o MFS 7000 sonar o The embarked Lynx HMA 8 helicopter or Merlin HM1 helicopter is capable of carrying Sting Ray torpedo. The Merlin HM1 helicopter is fitted with its own dipping sonar and carries sonobuoys. * Land attack o The Münchberg as it stands has no land-attack missile capability and the SYLVER A50 launcher currently has no capability to fire such a missile. However, should the need arise, it would be possible to fit them with the Mk. 41 VLS, firing the BGM-109 Tomahawk; the Defence Procurement Agency conducted a study into this in 2004, but there are no plans yet to fit this. The Navy is pursuing a variant of the Storm Shadow / SCALP air-launched cruise missile for their SYLVER A70 launchers, but not the A50 launchers as currently fitted to the Darings. o The 40 mm Mark 8 railgun has a Naval Gunfire Support (NGS) role. The proposed upgrade to a 50 mm railgun would increase range and explosive effect. * Countermeasures o The Seagnat decoy system allows for the seduction and distraction of radar guided weapons, through active and passive means. An infra-red 'spoofing' device is planned for future retrofits. o Surface Ship Torpedo Defence System (SSTD) active torpedo decoy system * Communications o Fully Integrated Communications System (FICS45) - a combined external and internal communications system supplied by Thales and SELEX Communications Ltd. * METOC Meteorology and Oceanography o The Metoc system by BAE Systems comprises the Upper Air Sounding System using launchable radiosondes, as well as a comprehensive weather satellite receiving system and a bathymetrics system. These sensors will provide each vessel with a full environmental awareness for tasks such as radar propagation, ballistics and general self-supporting meteorological and oceanographic data production. * Aircraft o 1 Lynx HMA 8 helicopter - Sea Skua anti-ship missiles and Sting Ray torpedoes or 1 Merlin helicopter - Sting Ray torpedoes, dipping sonar and sonobuoys. o The flight deck of the Münchberg is big enough to accommodate aircraft up to the size of the Chinook. * Other o Münchberg has sufficient space to embark 60 Marines and their equipment. Propulsion 2 shafts Integrated Electric Propulsion; * 1 NFT E.ON fusion reactor * 2 Converteam electric drive motors; 20 MW (26,800 shp) During sea-trials in August 2007, SMS Münchberg reached her design speed of 39 knots in 70 seconds and achieved a speed of 41.5 knots in 120 seconds. VMS Münchberg VMS Nittenau VMS Burglengenfeld VMS Vilseck VMS Hemau VMS Kronach VMS Kulmbach VMS Renau VMS Traun Würzburg class frigate The Würzburg class multi-role stealth frigates are the latest platforms to enter into service with the Volksmarine (VM), and are multi-mission frigates. The frigates are key information nodes and fighting units, and are "by far the most advanced surface combatants in Europe". Design & construction Radar cross section (RCS) reduction features have been incorporated into the Würzburg class design, with inclined hull sides and bulwarks as well as concealment of ship boats and replenishment-at-sea equipment behind low-RCS curtains. The Würzburg class have a significantly reduced profile than previous frigates, due to the smaller superstructure and the use of enclosed sensor mast technology. The frigate is also constructed entirely of steel, unlike previous designs which makes extensive use of weight-saving composite structures in its aft superstructure block. The frigates also possess better sea keeping qualities and are able to stay at sea for longer periods of time. The frigates are equipped with the Thales Herakles phased-array multi-function radar, which provides three-dimensional surveillance for up to 250 kilometres. The radar provides all-round automatic search & tracking of both air and surface targets, and is integrated with the MBDA Aster air defence system. Utilising the DCNS Sylver vertical launch system, each frigate is capable of carrying 32 cells. The frigates have a special surface-to-air missile configuration, combining the Thales Herakles radar with the Sylver A50 launcher and a mix of Aster 15 and 30 missiles. The frigates are equipped with Harpoon II missiles and Oto Melara 40 mm railguns for surface defence. The Harpoon II has a range of 217 km and uses active radar guidance. It is armed with a 227 kg warhead. The gun fires 4 kg tungsten rods to a range of 636 km at a firing rate up to 10 rounds per minute. The frigates are also equipped with the EDO active low frequency towed sonar to enable long range submarine detection and classification, as well as Eurotorp A244/S Mod 3 lightweight torpedoes fired from two B515 triple-tube launchers hidden behind the bulwark. The frigates will be equipped with Sikorsky S-70B naval helicopters. The Defence Ministry signed a contract with Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation in January 2005 to acquire several of these helicopters, which will be organic to the frigates. These naval helicopters are equipped with anti-surface and anti-submarine combat systems, extending the ship's own surveillance and over-the-horizon targeting and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The naval helicopters are raised as a squadron in the LSK and piloted by air force pilots, but the system operators are from the Navy. The naval helicopters have been delivered in 2008. Network-centric warfare The Würzburg class frigates are key nodes within the VM's Integrated Knowledge-based Command and Control network, a concept similar to the network-centric warfare doctrine of some other countries. The newly-developed Combat Management System integrates all the sensors and weapon systems onboard, and a dual Fast Ethernet data transfer system forms the backbone of this system. Each frigate has a span of influence that stretches up to about 400 nm, where it acts as the Navy's mobile operations centre out at sea and receives information from sister ships and aerial assets deployed within the range. The Combat Management System will then make sense of the different data, establish an accurate picture of the area of operations, and send the information back to shore and to its army and air force counterparts. This increases battlespace awareness and allows little time for the enemy to react due to the short sensor-to-shooter loops. VMS Würzburg VMS Straubing VMS Dachau VMS Landshut VMS Coburg VMS Amstetten VMS Saalfelden VMS Velenje VMS Celje VMS Augsburg Type 212 submarine The GDR Type 212 is a highly advanced design of non-nuclear submarine (U-Boat) developed by BMW Marinewerft for the VM. It features diesel propulsion and an additional air-independent propulsion (AIP) system using Siemens proton exchange membrane (PEM) hydrogen fuel cells. The submarine can operate at high speed on diesel power or switch to the AIP system for silent slow cruising, staying submerged for up to three weeks without surfacing and with no exhaust heat. The system is also said to be vibration-free, extremely quiet and virtually undetectable. Type 212 is the first fuel cell propulsion system equipped submarines ready for series production. Design Partly owing to the "X" arrangement of the stern planes, the Type 212 is capable of operating in as little as 17 metres of water, allowing it to come much closer to shore than most contemporary submarines. This gives it an advantage in covert operations, as SCUBA-equipped commandos operating from the boat can surface close to the beach and execute their mission more quickly and with less effort. A notable design feature is the prismatic hull cross-section and smoothly faired transitions from the hull to the sail, improving the boat's stealth characteristics. The ship and internal fixtures are constructed of nonmagnetic materials, reducing significantly chances of it being detected by magnetometers or setting off magnetic naval mines. It also uses a skewback propeller. AIP propulsion Although hydrogen-oxygen propulsion had been considered for submarines as early as World War I, the concept was not very successful until recently due to fire and explosion concerns. In the Type 212 this has been countered by storing the fuel and oxidizer in tanks outside the crew space, between the pressure hull and outer light hull. The gases are piped through the pressure hull to the fuel cells as needed to generate electricity, but at any given time there is only a very small amount of gas present in the crew space. Skewback propeller An advanced type of propeller used on GDR Type 212 submarines is called a skewback propeller. As in the scimitar blades used on some aircraft, the blade tips of a skewback propeller are swept back against the direction of rotation. In addition, the blades are tilted rearward along the longitudinal axis, giving the propeller an overall cup-shaped appearance. This design preserves thrust efficiency while reducing cavitation, and thus makes for a quiet, stealthy design. Weapons Currently, the Type 212A is capable of launching the fiber optic-guided DM2A4 Seehecht ("Seahake") heavyweight torpedoes, the WASS A184 Mod.3 torpedoes, the BAVTorp BlackShark torpedoes and short-range missiles from its six torpedo tubes, which use a water ram expulsion system. Other capability includes tube-launched cruise missiles. The short-range missile IDAS (based on the IRIS-T missile), against air threats, but also against small or medium-sized sea- or near land targets, has been developed by Diehl BGT Defence to be fired from Type 212's torpedo tubes. IDAS is fiber-optic guided and has a range of approx. 20 km. Four missiles fit in one torpedo tube, stored in a magazine. First deliveries of IDAS for the VM are scheduled from 2009 on. A 30 mm auto-cannon called Muräne (moray) to support diver operations or to give warning shots is being used too. The cannon, a version of the RMK30 built by MAN, will be stored in a retractable mast and can be fired without the boat emerging. The mast is also designed to contain three Falke UAVs for reconnaissance missions. 2 in service Seewolf class attack submarine 5 in service Sensenmann class nuclear submarine 2 in service Bayern class carrier The Bayern class aircraft carriers will be the next generation supercarrier for the VM. Features Carriers of the Bayern class incorporate many new design features including a new nuclear reactor design (the NFT reactor), stealthier features to help reduce radar profile, electromagnetic catapults, advanced arresting gear, and reduced crewing requirements. The VM believes that with the addition of the most modern equipment and extensive use of automation they will be able to reduce the crew requirement and the total cost of future aircraft carriers. The primary recognition feature compared to earlier supercarriers will be the more aft location of the navigation "island". VMS Bayern VMS Charlemagne VMS Ludwig II. VMS Otto of Bavaria VMS Albrecht VMS Ferdinand VMS Charles Albert VMS Francis II. VMS Österreich Verteidiger USV The Verteidiger unmanned surface vehicle (USV) was developed by the MAN Marine in response to emerging terrorist threats against maritime assets, and is one of the only operational combat USV that exist today. Features Based on a 9 metre (30-foot) rigid-hulled inflatable boat, the Verteidiger is stealthy, fast and highly maneuverable. The vessel's low profile upper structure is sealed and aerodynamic, and its modular platform design allows it to be reconfigured to meet changing mission requirements, such as force protection, anti-terror, surveillance and reconnaissance, mine and electronic warfare. The hull is a deep V-shaped planing hull, with the inflatable section providing stability and endurance. A single diesel engine drives water jets, allowing speeds of 40 knots. The Verteidiger offers enhanced surveillance, identification and interception capabilities. It is equipped with a Mini-Typhoon stabilized weapon system, a TOPLITE electro-optic surveillance and targeting system with day and night targeting capabilities through the use of forward looking infrared, charge-coupled devices and laser rangefinders, as well as a public address system. The Verteidiger is remotely controlled and can be operated with guidance from a commander and operator located ashore or aboard a manned vessel. This allows it to provide the first line of defense, inspecting vessels of interest while personnel and capital assets are held at a safe distance. Erlangen class MCMV The five minesweepers of the VM's Type 352 Erlangen class are former Type 343 class minesweepers that have been upgraded with the TROIKA PLUS system. The Erlangen class have three modes to clear mine fields: * TROIKA PLUS: This system employs up to four remote controlled Seehund ("Seal") drones which perform the sweep. The drones are small unmanned boats that can simulate the acoustic and magnetic signatures of bigger ships to trigger mines. Their small size and special construction let them survive the effects of exploding mines unharmed. * Mine hunting: Mines detected with the hull-mounted sonar can be identified and exploded with expendable Seefuchs (SeaFox) ROVs. * Classical minesweeping: Against moored mines the classical minesweeping using towed wire cutters to cut the anchors of mines can be conducted. Seehund ROV Length: 25 m Displacement: 99 t Propulsion: Schottel Z-drive Max speed: 9-10 kn The Seehund can be controlled remotely or manually by an onboard crew (usually 3) for maneuvering in harbours or in training (the Seehund is too large to be carried by Erlangen class vessels). A life raft is carried for this reason. Edited May 8, 2010 by Lynneth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lynneth Posted June 21, 2009 Author Report Share Posted June 21, 2009 (edited) Me 2.304 Habicht Me 2.208 Harpyie Me 2.616 Pinguin The COFFIN System. Made possible by cameras mounted around the aircraft's Pilot Center and body, along with an array of screens, patterned in a 360-degree sphere within the pilot center. The pilot is also completely conscious and not connected to their aircraft. The Pilot Center's Front Panels somewhat reduce the pilots view. Me 2.522 Amsel An incredibly stealthy plane, claimed to have a radar signature smaller than that of a mosquito. Avionics and equipment improvements allow Me 2.522 to carry JSOW and GBU-28s as well. The Amsel is also designated as a delivery aircraft for the AGM-158 JASSM. MOP The Me 2.522 can carry so-called 'MOPs', or Massive Ordnance Penetrator. They are generally dropped from a height of 23 kilometers. The bombs, while weighting 13 metric tons, are guided to hit their target precisely. During the descent, they break the speed of sound after only a few kilometers, accelerating further and further thanks to earth's gravity and what amounts to a rocket engine slapped to the 'back'. In the end, these bombs reach incredible speeds, roughly 3325 meters per second. This is approximately 12,000 kilometers per hour making them nigh unstoppable. They impact with the force of 180 tons of TNT on the target. This can result in varying craters, depending on the penetration- and detonation-mode. AW 159 EC 665 Tiger Design The body of the Tiger is made from 80% carbon fiber reinforced polymer and kevlar, 11% aluminium, and 6% titanium. The rotors are made from fiber-plastic able to withstand combat damage and bird strikes. Protection against lightning and electromagnetic pulse is ensured by embedded copper/bronze grid and copper bonding foil. While the Tiger has a conventional helicopter gunship configuration of the two crew sitting in tandem, it is somewhat unusual in that the pilot is in the front seat and the gunner is in the back, unlike all other current attack helicopters. The seats are offset to opposite sides of the centerline to improve the view forward for the gunner in the back. Crews coming to the Tiger from other platforms require additional training because the additional capabilities bring a higher workload. Protection The EC Tiger is capable of stopping 35 mm autocannon fire. Installed in the helicopter are a AN/AAR-60 MILDS System ensuring radar warning, a laser warning system, and a missile launch/approach detector developed by EADS DE, all connected to a central processing unit from Thales and a SAPHIR-M chaff/flare dispenser from MBDA. Its visual, radar, infrared, sound signatures have been minimized. Navigation/communications The navigation system contains two Thales Avionique three-axis ring laser gyro units, two magnetometers, two air data computers, BAE Systems CMA 2012 four-beam Doppler radar, radio altimeter, global positioning system, and a suite of low air speed sensors and sensors for terrain following. Datalinks: Link 4A, Thales Proprietary PR4G, STANAG 5066 Radios: HF, MF, VHF, UHF, military SATCOM, GPS receiver, and datalink.. EC 7642 Atlas The Atlas is a transport helicopter. Able to fit up to 8 troops, this aircraft is used to transport units into battle situations. Fitted with 1 30mm autocannon and 2 7.62mm machine guns, this helicopter can fly into combat zones and provide light support for ground units. Protected by Chobham armour, this aircraft can withstand medium to heavy gun fire without recieving any critical damage. UAV KZO KZO (Kleinflugzeug für Zielortung, "small aircraft for target acquisition") is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with stealth characteristics. A KZO system consists of 10 UAVs and 2 ground units, consisting of one control station, one radio, one launch, one maintenance vehicle with a refuelling facility for the UAVs and one recovery vehicle. The UAV is launched with a booster rocket directly out of its container. Landing is done with a parachute. The KZO's main objective is to locate mobile threats and provide target locations for artillery. KZO supplements the NPA's other main UAV in service, Drohne Falke, which is better suited for area reconnaissance and stationary targets. The Taifun attack drone is an armed variant fitted with an intelligent millimeter-wave radar seeker that perform search and destroy attacks autonomously. It destroys its target with a hollow-charge warhead. Two electronic warfare variants have also been developed as the Mücke ("mosquito") and the Fledermaus ("bat"). UAV Drohne Falke The Falke is a 3-meter-long unmanned aerial vehicle manufactured. The aircraft is piloted remotely and can cruise at altitudes of over 16,000 feet for as long as five hours. It can send back images of targets up to 360 kilometers from its operators on the ground. Additionally, missiles and other weapons can be mounted for anti-vehicle and anti-helicopter warfare. Edited April 29, 2010 by Lynneth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lynneth Posted September 27, 2009 Author Report Share Posted September 27, 2009 (edited) GDR Achievements Laser-based Fusion power: 'Ignition Facility 01' Left, the basic layout. The laser pulse is generated in the room just right of center, and is sent into the beamlines (blue) on either side. After several passes through the beamlines the light is sent into the "switchyard" (red) where it is aimed into the target chamber (silver). Three football fields could fit inside the IF. To the right, a simplified diagram of the beampath of a NIF laser beam, one of 48 similar beamlines. On the left are the amplifiers and optical switch, and on the right is the final spatial filter, switchyard and optical frequency converter. Left, A construction worker inside IF's 10 meter target chamber. Almost all of the engineering on the IF laser is on an enormous scale. Right, Exterior view of the upper 1/3rd of the target chamber. The large square beam ports are prominent. Left: The flashlamps used to pump the main amplifiers are the largest ever in commercial production. Right: Laser Bay 2 IF's fuel "target", filled with either D-T gas or D-T ice. The capsule is held in the hohlraum using thin plastic webbing. Despite all these elaborate things, the IF is, in fact, cheaper and more powerful per invested money than any previous kind of fusion power generation. Three more of these plants will be built, the first having been completed days ago. Nowhere else in the world does a construction exist that uses so many lasers. The IF is unique and the first of its kind. IF 01 stands in Innsbruck. Robotic surgeons Right now, in this very moment, 6 of 6 rebuilt hospitals in the GDR have 2 robotic surgeons. Surgeon robots are just what they sound like - a pair of robotic arms equipped with a camera that can conduct surgeries with precision and speed that no human could ever muster. They are overseen by human doctors, but largely independent of these men. The robots achieve success rates between 97 and 99% across the board, in any kind of surgery in which they have been used.This is a higher rate than any that human surgeon can claim. Brain-Computer interfaces: The NIA This is the NIA. The Neural Impulse Actuator. The era of the brain controlled driving is still very far away, but from this day on, your thoughts will be changed. The NIA is an unprecedented device, usable with just about every PC-application you can think of. Working with the NIA’s calibration program, the Actuator captures a variety of signals, such as facial muscle movement, eye movement, brain Alpha waves and Beta waves to control what is happening on your screen. In a game, you could literally fire a gun by merely thinking of it. In a photo-manipulation program, you could change the picture by imagining the desired changes, and they would happen right there, before your eyes. You could write an entire novel, just by thinking the words, never having to touch the keyboard. And even now, men with only the future in mind are working on making this device better, so that one day, you may be capable of driving your car with only your thoughts. Monitors over your eyes: ARCL Augmented reality contact lenses (ARCL) are simply computer monitors that go directly on top of your eyes, like contact lenses. As a result, you see computer information overlaid on the world you're looking at around you. You could look down a street and see little pop-ups full of information about local stores - or navigate your way to the nearest public bathroom by watching glowing yellow arrows on the street leading you to a cafe with a toilet. And yes, you could also look up into the beautiful, blue sky and see a million Google ads for sky-related products. You could also be reading our homepage in your contacts while your boss yells at you, or watching movies online while your parents take you out to dinner to talk about their new kitchen remodel. They can be used to visualize what a building or a given set of structures will look like on the street. Imagine being able to design a building while standing in the vacant lot where it will eventually stand, matching its walls precisely to the proper angles and observing in real life how the sunlight will hit its windows. These contacts will also make it easier for building inspectors of all types to check that structures are up to code: Just stroll around a factory and compare what you're seeing with a virtual overlay of what's supposed to be there (or not there). Exosuits: HAL Great grandma can soon put aside that powered wheelchair she uses to terrorize the residents at her rest home. The robotics venture Cyberdyne's robot-suit "HAL" (Hybrid Assistive Limb) is now available for rent and is being tested on the streets of Vienna. HAL, an exoskeleton, is a mind-controlled wearable machine that gives humans enhanced mobility. The HAL exoskeleton helps the wearer to carry out a variety of everyday tasks, including standing up from a chair, walking, climbing up and down stairs, and lifting heavy objects. The suit can operate for almost five hours before it needs recharging. The HAL exoskeleton has robotic limbs that strap to your arms and legs - providing much fuller mobility than a wheelchair. The suit's backpack contains a battery and computer controller. When a HAL-assisted person attempts to move, nerve signals are sent from the brain to the muscles, and very weak traces of these signals can be detected on the surface of the skin. The HAL exoskeleton identifies these signals using a sensor, and a signal is sent to the suit's power unit telling the suit to move in synch with the wearer's own limbs. HAL comes in three sizes - small, medium and large and weighs in at 23kg (50.7 lbs). A single leg version rents for 1,570 Mark a month, while a two-leg unit goes for 2,300 Mark a month. However, Cyberdyne has yet to announce when HAL will go on sale to the public or what the price tag will be. Outwitting Gravity: Levitating Mice Science has now levitated mice using magnetic fields. Other researchers have made live frogs and grasshoppers float in mid-air before, but such research with mice, being closer biologically to humans, could help in studies to counteract bone loss due to reduced gravity over long spans of time, as might be expected in deep space missions or on the surfaces of other planets. Scientists working on behalf of the Fraunhofer Society built a device to simulate variable levels of gravity. It consists of a superconducting magnet that generates a field powerful enough to levitate the water inside living animals, with a space inside warm enough at room temperature and large enough at 6.6 cm wide for tiny creatures to float comfortably in during experiments. Repeated levitation tests showed the mice, even when not sedated, could quickly acclimate to levitation inside the cage. After three or four hours, the mice acted normally, including eating and drinking. The strong magnetic fields did not seem to have any negative impacts on the mice in the short term, and past studies have shown that rats did not suffer from adverse effects after 10 weeks of strong, non-levitating magnetic fields. "We're trying to see what kind of physiological impact is due to prolonged microgravity, and also what kind of countermeasures might work against it for astronauts," Indorf, the lead researcher of the project, said. "If we can contribute to the future human exploration of space, that would be very exciting." They are now applying for funding for such research with their levitator. The researchers also levitated water drops up to 5 cm wide. This suggests the variable gravity simulator could be used to study how liquids behave under reduced gravity, such as how heat is transferred or how bubbles behave. Flying cars: The Moller M400 The M400 Skycar is a prototype personal VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) aircraft - a "flying car" - called a "volantor" by its inventor Paul Moller, who has been attempting to develop such vehicles for many years. The design calls for four ducted fans - the propellors being covered which is safer and more efficient at low speeds. The craft is currently under development. The M400 is purported to ultimately transport four people; single-seat up to six-seat variations are also planned. It is described as a car since it is aimed at being a popular means of transport for anyone who can drive, incorporating automated flight controls. It is proposed that in a model for the general public, the driver may only input direction and speed. Piloting knowledge would be unnecessary. Its features include approximately 491 km/h cruise speed, 579 km/h maximum speed, a maximum altitude of 7.8 km, an ascend speed of 1.4 km/minute, a maximum payload of 340 kg, a maximum take off weight of 1088 kg, more than 8.5 km/liter (bio)ethanol, eight redundant, low-emission Wankel engines for safety, residential garage size, a parachute for the whole machine and road capability for short distances (to be driven to a vertiport/heliport). The fuel mileage is claimed to be similar to that of a big car, but due to the engines likely higher. According to Moller, development of the M400 Skycar will end within 2 years, so that in at most 3 years, the first M400s will be available for purchase. Vienna City Tower This is the Vienna City Tower. It is the most advanced structure on the entire planet, aside from the Space Elevator. It is 2,400 metres tall, 2 kilometres and four hundred metres, or one and a half miles. Its design has 400 floors with a 200 km/h (or 125 mph) vertical bullet train acting as the main elevator. The design is inspired by the Eiffel Tower to better deal with the massive wind forces pushing on it. It has a central core with 6 outer buildings that are connected to the central core every 100 floors. This design both stabilizes the structure and spreads out its mass. DIB 200 The DIB's design consists of 12 cylindrical modules 50 metres (or 164 ft) across and 200 metres (or 656 ft) long, which are stacked one on top of the other to form four towers that rise to different heights from the corners of a quadrangle at the base. One tower is two modules high, two towers are three modules high, and the fourth tower consists of four modules and climbs the full 800 metres. The modular design helps keep down costs and make technical problems more manageable. The gaps between the modules are designed to reduce wind loading on the structure. The first two tiers provide office space for about 50,000 people, on the third tier there is a hotel with 2,500 rooms, while the top tier is a residential block for more than 300 homes. People use high-speed lifts to shuttle between tiers, and slower ones to reach individual floors. Though the architect stuck with proven technology, it took conventional lift design to the limit with cables as long as 600 metres to provide the building's most direct service. Between tiers, horizontal sky lobbies link the towers and contain shops, sports and cultural centres. Its height is 800 metres. Century Tower The Century Tower is a 1,022 metre supertall skyscraper and consists of 200 floors, with the architectural and engineering works headed by Robert Vorhoelzer, a world-class Austrian architect. Cities in the GDR Koper & Munich Rijeka & Nuremberg Innsbruck Vienna Also Vienna Salzburg & Würzburg Other Achievements A fire squirrel? Notes to self: Fusion plants in: Cochin - 2 PhoenixEmpire/HAE - 50 Belarus - 2 Edited January 16, 2010 by Lynneth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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