David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:19pm
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M60 7.62mm Machine Gun
Description: The M-60 series general purpose machine gun is a light weight, belt fed, gas operated, air cooled weapon with fixed headspace and timing to allow for the rapid exchange of barrels during sustained firing situations. The M-60 can be carried and operated by one individual, though it is common practice to assign the weapon to a fire team (gunner and assistant gunner, who carries an additional barrel and ammunition). The M-60 is equipped with an integral bipod assembly which can be used to stabilize the weapon during offensive operations. Optionally, the M-60 can be set up on a tripod for increased stability and long range accuracy. In addition to the basic M-60 there are two variant models; the M-60 C/D (for use on helicopters) and the M-60E3, a lighter version of the basic model used by the Marine Corps and U.S. Special Operations Forces.
General Characteristics, M60 7.62mm Machine Gun
Length:
42.4 inches (107.70 centimeters)
Weight:
Weight: 18.75 pounds (8.51 kilograms)
Bore Diameter:
7.62mm (.308 inches)
Maximum Effective Range:
3609.1 feet (1,100 meters)
Maximum Range:
2.3 miles (3725 meters)
Muzzle Velocity:
2,800 feet (853 meters) per second
Rates of Fire:
Cyclic: 550 rounds per minute Rapid: 100 rounds per minute* Sustained: 100 rounds per minute*
(* with barrel changes at each 100 rounds)
Unit Replacement Cost:
$6,000
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:19pm
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M82A1 Special Application
Function: Long range counter-sniper, anti-material, explosives disposal firearm.
History: Procured by the U.S. Army during the Gulf War for combat engineers performing explosive ordnance disposal operations, the Barrett M82A1 Special Application Scoped Rifle (SASR) soon began to see service with Special Operations Forces as a long-range counter sniper and anti-materiel weapon. Since the Gulf War, the M82A1 has been replaced by the bolt action M95 caliber .50 rifle for use in engineer EOD operations, yet remains in service with SOF and peacekeeping forces as a counter-sniper, anti-material weapon.
Description: Produced by Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, the M82A1 Special Application Scoped Rifle is an air-cooled, semi-automatic rifle equipped with a 10x Unertl scope mounted on a mil. spec. sight rail and 10 round detachable box magazine. Firing M2 Caliber .50 Browning Machine Gun cartridges, the M82A1 is capable of engaging man-sized targets out to 1500m, armored targets out to 2000m and is capable of penetrating up to 30mm of steel plate.
To keep the felt recoil to a minimum, the M82A1 utilizes the short recoil principle developed by John Browning, which diffuses the recoil energy over a longer period of time. To further reduce recoil, the rifle barrel is equipped with a double-chambered muzzle brake, which redirects expended cartridge gasses to the sides and rear of the muzzle.
Though the primary round for the M82A1 is the Raufoss Grade A match-grade multi-purpose cartridge, the M82A1 can fire all types of caliber .50 BMG ammunition, with the exception of the M903 SLAP (Saboted, Light Armor Penetrator) and the M962 SLAPT (Saboted, Light Armor Penetrator- Tracer.)
General Characteristics, M82A1 Caliber .50 SASR
Manufacturer:
Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, Incorporated.
Overall length:
57 inches (144.78 centimeters)
Barrel length:
29 inches (73.67 cm)
Weight:
32.5 pounds (14.75 kilograms)
Bore Diameter:
12.7mm (.50 inches)
Maximum Effective Range:
4875 feet (1500 meters) for man-sized targets.
6500 feet (2000 meters) for armored targets.
Unit Replacement Cost:
$6,000
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:19pm
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Shoulder-Launched Multipu
Function: Portable anti-armor rocket launcher.
Mission: To destroy bunkers and other fortifications during assault operations (as well as other designated targets with the dual mode rocket), and destroy main battle tanks with the HEAA rocket.
Description: The SMAW is an 83mm man-portable weapon system consisting of the MK153 Mod 0 launcher, the MK 3 Mod 0 encased HEDP rocket, the MK 6 Mod 0 encased HEAA rocket, and the MK217 Mod 0 spotting rifle cartridge. The launcher consists of a fiberglass launch tube, a 9mm spotting rifle, an electro-mechanical firing mechanism, open battle sights, and a mount for the MK42 Mod 0 optical and AN/PVS-4 night sights. The High Explosive, Dual Purpose (HEDP) rocket is effective against bunkers, masonry and concrete walls, and light armor. The High Explosive Anti-Armor (HEAA) rocket is effective against current tanks without additional armor. The 9mm spotting rounds are ballistically matched to the rockets and increase the gunner's first round hit probability. Training is accomplished with the MK7 Mod 0 encased common practice rocket and the MK213 Mod 0 noise cartridge.
The SMAW MK153 Mod 0 launcher is based on the Israeli B-300 and consists of the launch tube, the spotting rifle, the firing mechanism, and mounting brackets. The launch tube is fiberglass/epoxy with a gel coat on the bore. The spotting rifle is a British design and is mounted on the right side of the launch tube. The firing mechanism mechanically fires the spotting rifle and uses a magneto to fire the rocket. The mounting brackets connect the components and provide the means for boresighting the weapon. The encased rockets are loaded at the rear of the launcher. The spotting cartridges are stored in a magazine in the cap of the encased rocket.
History: The SMAW system (launcher, ammunition and logistics support) was fielded in 1984 as a Marine Corps unique system. At that time, the SMAW included the MK153 Mod 0 launcher, the MK3 Mod 0 HEDP encased rocket, the MK4 Mod 0 practice rocket and the MK217 Mod 0 9mm spotting cartridge. The MK6 Mod 0 encased HEAA rocket is being added to the inventory. The MOD 0 has demonstrated several shortcomings. A series of modifications is currently planned to address the deficiencies. They include a resleeving process for bubbled launch tubes, rewriting/drafting operator and technical manuals, a kit that will reduce environmental intrusion into the trigger mechanism, and an optical sight modification to allow the new HEAA rocket to be used effectively against moving armor targets. Recently fielded were new boresight bracket kits that, when installed, will solve the loss of boresight problem between launch tube and spotting rifle. During Desert Storm, 150 launchers and 5,000 rockets were provided to the U.S. Army. Since then, the Army has shown increased interest in the system.
General Characteristics, Shoulder-Launched Multipurpose Assault Weapon (SMAW)
Length:
To Carry: 29.9 inches (75.95 centimeters)
Ready-to-Fire: 54 inches (137.16 cm)
Weight:
To Carry: 16.6 pounds (7.54 kilograms)
Ready-to-Fire (HEDP): 29.5 pounds (13.39 kilograms)
Ready-to-Fire (HEAA): 30.5 pounds (13.85 kilograms)
Bore Diameter:
83mm
Maximum Effective Range:
1 x 2 Meter Target: 250 meters Tank-Sized Target: 500 meters
Unit Introduction Date:
1984
Unit Replacement Cost:
$13,000
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:43pm
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AN/GAU-17 7.62mm Machine
Description: With the introduction of helicopters to the modern battlefield, the M61 system was redesigned and scaled down for use as a helicopter weapon system. Designated the M134, this new weapon was similar to the M61A1 but it fired the much smaller 7.62mm percussion primed rifle cartridge. Capable of firing 6,000 rounds per minute, the M134 was used on a number of helicopters, such as the UH-1 Iroquois, OH-6 Cayuse, and AH-1 Cobra, as well as the AC-47 gunship, during the Vietnam War. In these cases the M134 was part of an armament system and fired by either the pilot or co-pilot. The M134 also saw service in the Vietnam War in a number of under wing pods, allowing aircraft such as the AD-1 Sky Raider to deliver tremendous amounts of firepower in CAS missions.
The crew served version of the M134 is the GAU-17. Fired from a pintle mount on the helicopter fuselage, the GAU-17 is very similar to the M134 except that it is equipped with a "high" (4,000 rpm) and "low" (2,000 rpm) selector switch. The GAU-17 is currently in service on the UH-1N, H-3, and H-60 helicopters, as well as a number of American Special Operations aircraft and helicopters.
Background: Soon after the end of the Second World War the newly formed United States Air Force identified a need for an improved gun system for its aircraft. While adequate as an air combat / ground attack weapon during World War Two, the Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun had been rendered obsolete by jet aircraft and needed to be replaced by a weapon with increased range, rate of fire, and projectile lethality. Realizing that singled barreled automatic weapons had essentially reached their design limits, the U.S. Army Ordnance Research and Development Service hit on the idea of re-introducing the multi-barreled rotary weapon invented by Richard J. Gatling in the 1880s. Initial tests proved promising as a vintage Gatling gun, now powered by an electric motor in place of the usual hand crank, was able to achieve rates of fire in excess of 4,000 rounds per minute.
In 1946 the General Electric company received the contract for this new program, code named "Project Vulcan," and was tasked with producing functional prototypes in a number of calibers for further testing. In 1952 GE produced three different guns; .60 caliber, 20mm, and 27mm. After extensive testing, the 20mm version was selected for further testing to determine its suitability as an aircraft mounted weapon. In 1956 the gun was standardized as the M61 20mm cannon and entered service with both the United States Army and Air Force.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:43pm
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M61A1 20mm Cannon
Description: The current version of the M61, the M61A1, remains relatively unchanged from past models. In its basic form the M61A1 is a six barreled rotary cannon firing a variety of electrically primed 20mm cannon shells. The gun can be mounted either internally in aircraft, or externally in a pod arrangement, and has been mounted on both ground vehicles and trailers for use as an air defense weapon. The M61A1 can be driven hydraulically, electrically, or by ram air and has a variable rate of fire of between 4,000 and 7,200 rounds per minute (depending on individual settings and performance requirements).
Background: Soon after the end of the Second World War the newly formed United States Air Force identified a need for an improved gun system for its aircraft. While adequate as an air combat / ground attack weapon during World War Two, the Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun had been rendered obsolete by jet aircraft and needed to be replaced by a weapon with increased range, rate of fire, and projectile lethality. Realizing that singled barreled automatic weapons had essentially reached their design limits, the U.S. Army Ordnance Research and Development Service hit on the idea of re-introducing the multi-barreled rotary weapon invented by Richard J. Gatling in the 1880s. Initial tests proved promising as a vintage Gatling gun, now powered by an electric motor in place of the usual hand crank, was able to achieve rates of fire in excess of 4,000 rounds per minute.
In 1946 the General Electric company received the contract for this new program, code named "Project Vulcan," and was tasked with producing functional prototypes in a number of calibers for further testing. In 1952 GE produced three different guns; .60 caliber, 20mm, and 27mm. After extensive testing, the 20mm version was selected for further testing to determine its suitability as an aircraft mounted weapon. In 1956 the gun was standardized as the M61 20mm cannon and entered service with both the United States Army and Air Force.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:47pm
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M224 60mm Lightweight Mor
Function: To provide the company commander with an indirect-fire weapon.
Description: The M224 60mm Lightweight Mortar is a smooth bore, muzzle loading, high-angle-of-fire weapon. The cannon assembly is composed of the barrel, combination base cap, and firing mechanism. The mount consists of a bipod and a base plate which is provided with screw type elevating and traversing mechanisms to elevate/traverse the mortar. The M64 sight unit is attached to the bipod mount via a standard dovetail. An additional short range sight is attached to the base of the cannon tube for firing the mortar on the move and during assaults. It has a spring-type shock absorber to absorb the shock of recoil in firing.
History: The M224 replaced the older (WWII era) M2 and M19, 60mm Mortars. These weapons only possessed 2,200 yards of effective range. The M224 was designed to fire all types of the older ammunition, but its primary rounds are of the newer, longer-range type.
General Characteristics, M224 60mm Lightweight Mortar
Length:
40 inches (101.6 centimeters)
Weight:
46.5 pounds (21.11 kilograms)
Bore Diameter:
60mm
Maximum Effective Range:
2.17 miles (3490 meters)
Rates of Fire:
Maximum: 30 rounds/minute Sustained: 20 rounds/minute
Unit Replacement Cost:
$10,658
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:47pm
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M-252 Mortar
Function: Provides field artillery fire support for all Marine Corps Air Ground Task Force organizations.
Description: The M252 81mm Medium Extended Range Mortar is a crew-served, medium weight mortar which is highly accurate and provides for a greater range (4,500 meters to 5,650 meters) and lethality than the previous versions. The cannon has a crew-removable breech plug and firing pin. The muzzle end has a short tapered lead-in which acts as a blast attenuator device. The breech end is finned for better cooling. This mortar also uses the standard M64 mortar sight of the 60mm mortar, M224.
Background: This mortar replaced the previous Marine Corps 81mm mortar in 1986. The M252 is an adaptation of the standard British 81mm mortar developed in the 1970s. It is mostly commonly found in the mortar platoon of an infantry battalion. A Blast Attenuation Device (BAD) is attached to the muzzle of the weapon to reduce the blast effects on the mortar crew. The M252 is ideally suited to support airborne, air assault and light infantry units.
General Characteristics, M-252 Mortar
Length:
56 inches (142.24 centimeters)
Weight:
Mortar Assembly: 35 pounds (15.89 kilograms)
Bipod: 26 pounds (11.80 kilograms)
Baseplate: 25.5 pounds (11.58 kilograms)
Sight Unit: 2.5 pounds (1.14 kilograms)
Total: 89 pounds (40.41 kilograms)
Bore Diameter:
81mm
Maximum Effective Range:
5700 meters
Rates of Fire:
Maximum: 33 rounds per minute Sustained: 16 rounds per minute Elevation: 45 to 85 degrees
Minimum Range:
80 meters
Unit Replacement Cost:
$24,717
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 9:09pm
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AN/PSS-12 Metallic Mine D
Function: Mine Detection.
Description: The AN/PSS-12 Mine Detector is a light weight, hand held, metallic mine detector. It is capable of detecting very small metallic objects such as small firing pins in plastic and wooden mines. The AN/PSS-12 Mine Detector is capable of detecting mines in fresh or salt water, and objects buried up to 20 inches in the ground.
History: The AN/PSS-12 mine detector replaces the PSS-11 Metallic Mine Detector. The PSS-11 had reached its end of service life, and needed to be replaced with state-of-the-art technology. The AN/PSS-12 represents a world-class mine detector capable of detecting small amounts of metal found in modern land mines.
General Characteristics, AN/PSS-12 Metallic Mine Detector
Manufacturer:
Schiebel Instruments, Inc.
Power Supply:
Four 1.5 V batteries
Weight:
Mine Detector in transport case: 13.7 lbs. (6.2 kilograms) Mine Detector: 8.5 lbs. (3.8 kg.)
Operating Time:
70 hours
Deployment Method:
Hand Held
Materials:
Telescopic pole consists of an inner plastic tube and outer aluminum tube
Inventory:
547: approximately 300 are currently fielded to FMF units and training commands; the majority of these assets are held in the Combat Engineer Battalions, Engineer Support Battalions and Marine Wing Support Squadrons
Unit Replacement Cost:
$1,196
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 9:38pm
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Shenyang J-8 (F-8 Finback
Function: Twin-engined, single-seat aircraft is primarily used for air combat, with the capability of ground attack.
History: Introduced in 1964, the J-8 was the first People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) aircraft utilizing a wholly Chinese design. While similar in configuration to the Soviet MiG-21 or the Chinese J-7, the J-8 airframe has been enlarged to accommodate two engines. Although the design was approved in 1964, prototype production was not completed until 1969. Because of the civil unrest caused by the Cultural Revolution (1966-76), the prototypes would see only limited flight activity through 1976, delaying production further. Production of the J-8 began in December 1979, with very few airframes actually entering service. These first-run aircraft were equipped with a single axial air intake supplying air to both engines, with a centrally mounted ranging radar, which gave the aircraft an appearance similar to the Mig-21/J-7. These aircraft were also equipped with two Type 30 30mm cannons and four under wing hardpoints, capable of firing the PL-2B short-range air-to-air missile. First-run production was completed in 1987.
The second run J-8 I "Finback A" entered production in 1985. Similar to the original J-8, the J-8 I had an improved radar which gave it all-weather capability. In addition, the two 30mm cannons were replaced by a single twin-barreled 23mm cannon. Production was halted in 1987 after some 100 aircraft were built (including original J-8 aircraft converted to the J-8 I design).
The completely redesigned J-8 II "Finback B" was first flown in 1984 and made public in 1986. The forward section of the airframe has been completely redesigned, replacing the single combination air intake-radome with two separate intakes, mounted laterally on the fuselage just aft of the cockpit, and a solid nose housing the aircraft's search radar. The solid nose also increases the amount of space available for additional after-market avionics. The J-8 II also incorporates a ventral stabilizer fin for increased maneuverability, which can folded for takeoff and landing. The export model of the J-8 II, designated the F-8 II, has improved avionics, to include digital electronics, a Heads Up Display (HUD), and Doppler radar, and engines, along with leading edge slats and in-flight refueling capabilities, giving it improved performance characteristics.
The J-8 IIM is a private venture (sponsored by Shenyang Aircraft Company) to improve the performance, and marketability, of the Basic J-8 II design. The J-8 IIM is capable of launching a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground ordnance, including the PL-8, R-27/AA-10 and PL-5B. In addition, conventional iron bombs can be carried on seven hardpoints. The J-8 IIM also incorporates the advanced Russian made Zhuk-8II (FG-8) look-down, shoot-down radar, which replaces the older Chinese Type-208 radar. The Zhuk-8II has a range of 70 nautical miles, is able to track up to 10 targets at once and engage 2 targets simultaneously with radar-guided missiles such as the AA-10, as well as to launch anti-ship missiles such as the Kh-31. While the J-8 IIM also incorporates improved engines, the J-8 IIM is actually heaver than the baseline model, so aircraft range and performance are down slightly. Though the J-8 IIM completed its first test flight in 1998, none have been exported.
The most recent variant of the J-8 introduced, the J-8D, appears to be a basic J-8 II modified with a fixed in-flight refueling probe. In addition, it would seem that the avionics package has been upgraded to allow the ability to fire the PL-8 IR missile and the PL-11 semi-active radar guided missile.
Description: The basic J-8 design is very similar in appearance to the Soviet MiG-21 and Chinese J-7 aircraft, with the modified delta wing, swept horizontal and vertical stabilizers and central combination air intake-radar housing. The J-8's laterally mounted twin engines, however, readily give it away, the twin exhausts easily visible below and aft of the vertical stabilizer. The J-8 II replaces the MiG-21 forward section with a completely new design, incorporating the same single seat stepped cockpit, but with a solid nose and two laterally mounted, one on each side of the fuselage, square air intakes. The back half of the J-8 II, however, remains largely unchanged from the original J-8 design.
General Characteristics, Shenyang J-8 (F-8 Finback)
Country:
People's Republic of China
Designation:
Jian-8 Finback
Type:
Intercept
Builder:
Shenyang Aircraft
Power Plant:
Two open 13A-II turbojets at 14,815 pounds thrust
Length:
70 feet, 10 inches (21.6 meters)
Wingspan:
30 feet ( 9.3 meters)
Weight:
Empty: 21,600 pounds (9,820 kilograms)
Normal Takeoff: 31,500 pounds (14,300 kilograms)
Maximum Takeoff: 39,200 pounds (17,800 kilograms)
Speed:
Maximum Speed: 1,450 mph (2,340 kmh, Mach 2.2)
Cruising Speed: 800 mph (1,300 kmh)
Ceiling:
18-20,000 meters
Range:
Combat Radius: 2,500 miles (800 kmh)
Cruise Radius: 800 miles (1,300 kilometers)
Ferry Range: 1,400 miles (2,200 kilometers)
Internal Fuel Capacity:
3994 kilograms
Armament:
Two 23mm cannons (J-8 only; not found on J-8II)
One underfuselage hardpoint
Six underwing hardpoints for fuel, bombs, rockets or missiles
Four PL-2 or PL-7 and 800 L drop tank (680 nm)
Two PL-2 or PL-7 and two 480 L drop tanks and one 800 L drop tank (741nm)
Sensors:
Izmurd raging radar
RWR
Ballistic bomb sight
Crew:
One
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:08pm
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D-30 122mm Towed Howitzer
Function: 122mm towed howitzer.
Background:Introduced in 1963 as a replacement for the pre-WWII M-30 howitzer, the D-30 122mm howitzer is in service with more than 50 countries and variants are still in production in Russia.
The D-30 fires variable charge, semi-cased, multi-part ammunition. The D-30 is capable of firing a number of projectile types, including HE-fragmentation, illuminating, smoke, leaflet, flechette, and incendiary.
The D-30 is capable of firing a non-rotating, fin stabilized anti-tank HEAT round which gives the gun a limited anti-armor capability. A Rocket Assisted Projectile (RAP) has been fielded which would increase the gun's range from 15,300 meters to 21900 meters.
There are at least two chemical munitions available for the D-30. The Sarin projectile weighs 22.2 kg with 1.3 kg of Sarin agent. The Lewisite projectile weighs 23.1 kg with 3.3 kg of viscous Lewisite agent.
Description: The D-30 has a single axle with a unique three-trail carriage. When limbered for transport, the gun rests on the wheeled axle. Once set up, the gun is suspended on top of the three trail arms which give the gun a 360 degree traverse capability.
The gun's recoil mechanism is housed in an armored box on top of the barrel and there is a small armored shield fitted between the wheels that provides limited protection to the crew. Early versions of the gun were fitted with a multi-baffle muzzle break while later models have been fitted with a double baffle break.
The gun itself is semiautomatic, with a vertically-sliding, wedge-type breechblock. The D-30 can be towed by a truck (Ural-375 or ZIL-131) or armored tractor. It is towed muzzle-first by a large lunette just under the muzzle brake with its trails folded under the barrel.
General Characteristics, D-30 122mm Towed Howitzer
Length:
Limbered for travel
17.55 feet (5.4 meters)
Width:
6.12 feet (1.9 meters)
Height:
5.2 feet (1.6 meters)
Weight:
3.2 tons
Cruising Range:
450 kilometers
Towing Speed:
Maximum: 38mph (60kph)
Off-road: 16mph (25kph)
Emplacent time:
1.5 minutes
Displacement time:
3.5 minutes
Rates of Fire:
Maximum: 8 rounds per minute
Sustained: 4 rounds per minute
Maximum Range:
15 km with conventional projectiles.
22km with extended range RAP projectiles.
Introduction Date:
1963
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:08pm
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BM-21 122mm Rocket Launch
Function: 122mm self propelled rocket launcher.
Background: The BM-21 Grad (Hail) rocket launcher is the world's most widely-used rocket launcher system. Introduced to the Red Army in 1963 as a replacement for the BM-14 140mm rocket launcher, the BM-21's rockets carry the same sized warhead as the 140mm, and have a much longer range. In addition, because the rockets are smaller in diameter, more rockets can be carried per launcher.
The BM-21 can be operated and fired from the cab, or it can be fired from up to 60 meters away remotely. All 40 rockets can be fired in 6 seconds or they can be fired singly or in groups at 0.5 second intervals. Reloading the launcher takes less than 8 minutes.
The BM-21 fires a 122mm diameter rocket out to a range of 20,380 meters. Although the rockets are primarily fin stabilized, each launch tube is rifled to improve the accuracy of the rocket. In addition to HE-fragmentation, chemical, and incendiary warheads, the BM-21 is also capable of firing extended range munitions out to 36,000 meters.
The BM-21 is currently in service with over 50 countries worldwide, and is manufactured in Russia, North Korea, Egypt, China and Czechoslovakia.
Description: The BM-21 is a 40 round multiple launch rocket system mounted on the rear of a Ural-375D 6?6 cargo truck chassis. The rockets are stacked in 4 banks of 10 rockets apiece. Unlike other rocket launchers, there is no blast shielding around the cab of the transport vehicle.
General Characteristics, BM-21 122mm Rocket Launcher
Length:
23.89 feet (7.35 meters)
Width:
7.8 feet (2.40 meters)
Height:
10.04 feet (3.09 meters)
Weight:
13.7 tons
Cruising Range:
450 kilometers
Speed:
Maximum: 47mph (75kph)
Off road: 22mph (35kph)
Emplacent time:
3 minutes
Displacement time:
2 minutes
Rates of Fire:
Maximum: 40 rockets in 6 seconds
Sustained: Individual rockets at 0.5 second intervals
Maximum Range:
20 km with conventional rockets
36 km with extended range rockets
Introduction Date:
1963
Variants:
BM-21V: 12-round launcher developed for use in Airborne units.
BM-21B: 36-round launcher built on a 6x6 ZIL-131 cargo truck chassis.
Grad-P: Single shot rocket launcher.
9A51 Prima: 50-round launcher built on a 6x6 ZIL-131 cargo truck chassis.
BM-11: 30-round North Korean version.
Type 81: 40-round Chinese version.
Sakr-18: Egyptian version of the BM-21. The 122mm rockets fire 23 kg cluster munitions out to 20km.
RM-70: Czechoslovakian version. Introduced in 1972, the RM-70 uses the same launcher as the BM-21, but is mounted on a TATRA 10 ton 8x8 cargo truck chassis. The TATRA has a fully armored and shielded cab and is capable of carrying an additional "pack" of 40 rockets. This pack can reduce loading time to less than 5 minutes.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:15pm
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BMP-1 APC
Function: Soviet Union's first tracked Armored Personnel Carrier.
Description: The BMP-1 is a tracked, amphibious, fully enclosed armored personnel carrier armed with a 73mm smoothbore cannon, one 7.62mm coaxial machine gun and the AT-3 SAGGER antitank guided missile (ATGM). The BMP-1 represents a significant improvement over the wheeled BTR series in all aspects, including mobility, firepower, and survivability. Fielded in 1966, the BMP-1 has been modified to serve as a common chassis for a number of additional vehicle types. No longer in production, the BMP-1 has been surpassed by the BMP-2 and 3 in both service in the Russian army as well as export abroad.
General Characteristics, BMP-1 Armored Personnel Carrier
Transmission:
Manual with five forward gears and one reverse
Engine:
6 cylinder diesel engine producing 290 horsepower
Length:
22 feet (6.7 meters)
Width:
9 feet (2.74 meters)
Height:
7 feet (2.13 meters)
Combat Weight:
14 tons
Cruising Range:
372 miles (600 kilometers)
Speed:
Maximum: 40 mph (65 kph), or 45 mph (70 kph) for limited periods
Cross Country: 28 mph (45 kph)
Obstacle Crossing:
Trench: 8.2 feet (2.5 meters)
Slope: 31 degrees
Crew:
Three: driver, gunner and commander (who serves as squad leader when the the infantry squad dismounts)
Armament:
Main: 73mm 2A20 smoothbore cannon
Secondary: One AT-3 SAGGER ATGM, one 7.62mm PKT coaxial machine gun
Ammunition:
40 73mm cannon rounds (fin stabilized HEAT only)
2,000 7.62mm machine gun rounds
Introduction Date:
1966
Variants:
BMP-A: Also known as the Model 1966, this was the original version of the BMP. It has a shorter bow compared to its successor, the BMP-1 and does not have a Nuclear, Biological, Chemical (NBC) protection system.
BMP-1: Also known as the Model 1976 this was the base production model from which all variants were designed.
BMP-1K: The command variant of the BMP-1. It differed from the BMP-1 in that it carried additional communications equipment and had the rifle firing ports welded shut. In addition the troop compartment was redesigned to accommodate folding tables and map charts. Can be used as a battalion level command vehicle.
BMP-1P: The AT-3 SAGGER ATGM has been replaced by the AT-4 SPIGOT ATGM. Additionally, smoke grenade launchers have been mounted on the turret rear.
BMP-1PK: Command variant of the BMP-1P. Similar to the BMP-1K, it has additional communications equipment and has been modified to serve as a command vehicle. BMP-R: Also known as the BRM, BRM-1 and BMP M1976, this variant serves as a cavalry recon vehicle. The turret is larger and has had ATGM launcher removed. The back deck of the hull has been redesigned with two smaller hatches rather than the four large ones found on the BMP-1.
BRM-1K: Also known as the BMP M1976/2 this variant is based off of the BRM-1 with the PSNR-5K (NATO designation TALL MIKE) battlefield surveillance radar mounted in the rear section of the turret. Also included in the vehicle's sensor package are the DKRM-1 laser rangefinder, ARRS-1 location device, IMP mine detector and 1PN33B night vision devices. For navigation the BRM-1K uses the TNA-1, IG11N gyro-compass and the 1T25 survey device.
BMP KShM: Also known as the BMP M1978 it is a heavily modified BMP-1K with additional communications gear and a telescoping radio antenna for increased transmission range.
BMP-SON: Also known as the PRP-3, this is a BMP-1 modified to serve as an artillery reconnaissance and fire support vehicle. The turret has been redesigned to include two forward opening crew hatches equipped with observation periscopes as well as a large spotting optics. A large telescoping optical device is mounted on the left rear corner of the turret. The 73mm gun has been removed and replaced by a 7.62mm machine gun. Mounted on the rear of the vehicle is the SMALL FRED (NATO designation) battlefield surveillance radar. As with the command variants, the BMP-SON has an augmented communications package. The BMP-SON has a crew of 5.
PRP-4: This is essentially an upgraded and improved version of the PRP-3 (BMP-SON). Externally, the only difference is an additional fairing on the right side of the turret.
IRM: Amphibious Engineer Reconnaissance Vehicle. Based on the BMP-1, it uses the BMP-1 engine and suspension in a new hull design. Designed to perform specialized engineer missions such as mine detection and river bottom reconnaissance the IRM has two retractable mine detection devices mounted low on the bow and rapidly deployable snorkel. The IRM is propelled through the water via two shrouded propellers.
BMP-PPO: A heavily modified BMP-1 designed to serve as a mobile training center. The turret has been removed and eight roof mounted cupolas each equipped with a TNPO-170 and type MK-4 observation device, have been installed for trainees under instruction.
OT-90: Czechoslovakian version of the BMP-1. The turret has been replaced with the standard Czechoslovakian APC turret, equipped with a 14.5mm machine gun and a 7.62mm machine gun, found on the OT-64 8x8 wheeled APC.
BVP-1: Czechoslovakian produced BMP-1.
DP-90: Maintenance/recovery version of the OT-90.
MP-31: Air defense version of the BMP-KShM mobile command post.
MU-90: Mine laying version of the OT-90. The turret has been removed and the opening covered by sheet steel.
SVO: Mine clearing version of the BMP-1. The turret has been removed and a hedgehog type launcher has been installed in the troop compartment.
VPV: Maintenance/recovery version of the BMP-1. The turret and troop hatches have been removed and a crane has been installed on the roof of the troop compartment.
VP-90: Reconnaissance version of the OT-90. Similar to the BMP-R in all other respects.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:15pm
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BTR-70 APC
Function: Soviet 1970-era wheeled APC.
Background: Introduced in 1978 as a replacement to the BTR-60, The BTR-70 is very similar externally to the older vehicle, as many if the improvements made to the vehicle are internal.
The BTR-70 uses the standard Warsaw Pact APC weapons turret equipped with one KPV 14.5mm machine gun and one PKT 7.62mm machine gun. As with the BTR-60, power is supplied to all eight wheels by means of a unique twin engine/transmission arrangement. The BTR-70's power plants, however, have been upgraded to two 120hp gasoline engines. The gearbox arrangement, however, remains unchanged; one supplies power to the 1st and 3rd axles and the other supplies power to the 2nd and 4th axles.
The BTR-70 is also fully amphibious and does not require any preparation time. Steering, both on land and in the water, is provided by the forward two axles, which are also power assisted. Water propulsion is provided by a single rear mounted water jet.
Though replaced by the BTR-80 in the early eighties, the BTR-70 continues to serve in many armies world-wide, including most former Warsaw Pact as well as many Middle Eastern, African, and Asian countries.
Description: The BTR-70 an all-wheeled 8x8 fully amphibious armored personnel carrier. The boat shaped vehicle is divided up into three sections: crew compartment, personnel compartment, and engine compartment. In the case of the BTR-70 the hull has been lengthened somewhat and the axles now have a paired appearance, with a distinctive gap between the second and third axles.
The BTR-70 may be readily distinguished from the 60 and 80 series by the presence of a single, large, curved "caterpillar" insulated exhaust located on either side of the hull rear. In addition the amphibious operations trim vane has been moved from underneath the nose of the vehicle, BTR-60 series, to on top of the nose, just forward of the driver's station.
The BTR-70 is equipped with the standard Warsaw Pact APC turret. The small, one man turret is mounted over the second axle and contains one KPV 14.5mm machine gun and one PKT 7.62mm machine gun.
The personnel compartment can be accessed by a triangular doorway located between the second and third axles. The three infantry mounting steps and the three additional mounting rails located on the hull above the steps, present on the BTR-60, have been eleminated. The large personnel compartment access hatches located on each side of the hull have also been eliminated and replaced with three firing ports.
General Characteristics, BTR-70 Armored Personnel Carrier
Manufacturers:
Soviet Union
Transmission:
2x manual
Engine:
2x 120hp V-8 gasoline
Length:
25.51 feet (7.85 meters)
Width:
9.1 feet (2.80 meters)
Height:
7.96 feet (2.45 meters)
Combat Weight:
11.5 tons
Cruising Range:
450 kilometers
Speed:
Maximum: 50mph ( 80kph)
Off-road: 38mph (60kph)
Fording:
Fully amphibious without preparation
Crew:
2; driver, gunner-commander
8 passengers
Armament:
Main:
One 14.5mm KPV HMG
Secondary:
One 7.62mm PKT-T MG
Introduction Date:
1978
Variants:
BTR-70 M1986/1: Improved version of the Basic BTR-70.
BTR-70Kh: Chemical recon variant. Equipped with a proximity fuse jammer. This device is designed to prematurely detonate proximity fused artillery rounds.
BTR-70MS: Communications support variant.
BTR-70KShM: Mobile command post variant.
BREM: Armored Recovery Vehicle variant.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:15pm
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T-80 MBT
Function: Current Russian front line main battle tank (MBT).
Description: The T-80 MBT is a continuation of the T-64/T-72 series, retaining many similar features of the previous tanks. It is similar to the T-72 in that it retains the low silhouette, centrally mounted round turret with the commander seated to the right of the main gun and the gunner on the left. As with the T-72 the T-80 retains the use of the automatic loader, feeding ammunition from a 27 round circular magazine around the turret ring. Attached to the hull below the front slope is a toothed dozer blade. Beneath the blade are attachment points for the KMT-6 mine plow. The T-80 is the first Soviet design to incorporate a laser rangefinder as well as a gas turbine engine for increased automotive performance. The T-80 is currently in service with the Russian army and is slowly being replaced by the T-90.
General Characteristics, T-80 Main Battle Tank
Manufacturer:
KBTM, Omsk, Russian Federation
XKBM, Kharkov, Ukraine (T-80UD and T-84)
Transmission:
Automatic
Engine:
GTD-1250 gas turbine, 1250 horsepower (T-80U, T-80 originally equipped with the GTD-1000 delivering 1,100 horsepower)
Length. Gun Forward:
31.69 feet (9.66 meters)
Width:
12.00 feet (3.60 meters)
Height:
7.21 feet (2.20 meters)
Combat Weight:
46 tons
Cruising Range:
350 kilometers (600 kilometers with additional fuel tanks)
Speed:
Maximum: 43 mph (70 kph)
Cross Country: 30 mph (48 kph)
Obstacle Crossing:
Trench: 9.35 feet (2.85 meters)
Slope: 32 degrees
Fording:
Without preparation: 5.9 feet (1.8 meters)
With Snorkel: 16.4 feet (5 meters), or (39.4 feet (12 meters) with BROD-M system
Crew:
A three-man crew composed of a driver, gunner, and tank commander
Armament:
Main: 125mm 2A46M-1 main gun
Secondary: One 12.7mm NSVT anti-aircraft machine gun (commander's station), one 7.62mm PKT coaxial machine gun
Ammunition:
45 125mm Cannon rounds (combination of kinetic energy (SABOT), High Explosive Anti Tank (HEAT) shaped charge, High Explosive-Fragmentation (HE-FRAG), cannon launched AT-8 ATGM)
450 12.7mm machine gun rounds
1,000 7.62mm machine gun rounds
Sensors:
Shtora-1 countermeasures suite (T-80UK, T-80UM1)
Arena active protection system (T-80UM1, T-84)
Introduction Date:
1978
Variants:
T-80: Original production version. Fielded in 1978, equipped with the GTD-1000 gas turbine engine delivering 1100 horsepower. Utilized the same 125mm smoothbore cannon (2A46M-1) as the T-72 series but capable of firing the cannon launched, 9M177 Kobra ATGM (NATO designation AT-8 SONGSTER.) Tank is equipped with a 7.62mm PKT machine gun coaxial mounted on the right side of the cannon and a 12.7mm NSV machine gun mounted in the commanders cupola.
T-80B: First upgrade. Incorporates composite K ceramic armor in turret design to improve defense against kinetic energy (KE) penetrators. T-80BK is the command variant of the B model and has increased communications equipment. T-80BV: B model equipped with first generation reactive armor. At the time of its introduction, the application of reactive armor made the T-80 immune to all NATO ATGMs in production. The T-80BVK was the command variant of the T-80BV.
T-80U: First observed in 1989. Designated the M1989 SMT (Soviet Medium Tank). Modifications include a new turret design with improved frontal armor as well as the application of second generation explosive reactive armor. The AT-8 has been replaced by the cannon launched, laser guided 9M119 Refleks ATGM (NATO designation AT-11 SNIPER). Engine has been upgraded to the more powerful GTD-1250 gas turbine producing 1250 horsepower. The commander's weapon station has been redesigned to allow the firing of the 12.7 NSVT machinegun from within the turret. The T-80UK is the command variant of the T-80U. In addition to additional communications equipment, the T-80UK also fields the Shtora-1 countermeasures suite, an automated system combining an infrared jammer, laser warning system, and grenade discharging system.
T-80UM1: Incorporates new gunner's thermal sight as well as the Shorta-1 countermeasures suite and new Arena active ATGM protection system. Use of the Arena system precludes the need for the Kontakt-5 second generation reactive armor and so it has been removed.
T-80UD: Esentially a Ukrainian built version of the Russian T-80U. Major differences include the replacement of the gas turbine engine with a GTF V-12 diesel engine producing 1000 horsepower and the use of first generation reactive armor in pmace of the second generation Kontakt-5 ERA.
T-84: An improved version of the Ukrainian T-80UD incorporating the 6TD-2 diesel engine generating 1200 horsepower. In addition, the T-84 fields the Shtora-1 countermeasures suite and the ARENA active antimissile defensive system as well as the Ukrainian produced KBA-3 125mm smoothbore cannon and 28 round autoloader.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:15pm
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BTR-60 APC
Function: Soviet 1950 era wheeled APC.
Background: Introduced in 1963 as a replacement for the fully tracked BTR-50, the BTR-60 represents the first of a series of 8x8 wheeled APC that are still in production in the former Soviet Union. In terms of numbers produced, the BTR-60 was the most important vehicle in the Soviet Army and was issued to the Soviet naval Infantry. In addition, the BTR-60 has been supplied to most Warsaw Pact countries in addition to North Korea. The BTR-60 has also been manufactured in Czechoslovakia and Poland.
Initial BTR-60s were equipped with a single 12.7mm DShK machine gun and two PKT 7.62mm machineguns, all mounted forward of the personnel compartment. Later models used the standard Warsaw Pact APC weapons turret equipped with one KPV 14.5mm machine gun and one PKT 7.62mm machine gun. Power is supplied to all eight wheels by means of a unique twin engine/transmission arrangement. The BTR-60 uses two V-8 90hp gasoline engines and two separate transmissions; one supplies power to the 1st and 3rd axles and the other supplies power to the 2nd and 4th axles.
The BTR-60 is fully amphibious and does not require any preparation time. Steering, both on land and in the water, is provided by the forward two axles, which are also power assisted. Water propulsion is provided by a single rear mounted water jet.
Although the BTR-70 began to replace the BTR-60 in 1978, the BTR-60 has never been retired, and continues to serve in Russian reserve formations and numerous countries world-wide.
Description: The BTR-60 an all-wheeled 8x8 fully amphibious armored personnel carrier. The boat shaped vehicle is divided up into three sections: crew compartment, personnel compartment, and engine compartment. In early versions the personnel compartment is open topped; in later versions the entire vehicle is fully enclosed. The BTR-60 may be readily distinguished from the later 70/80/90 series by the presence of a single "automotive-type" muffler exhaust located on either side of the hull rear.
The BTR-60 "P" and "PA" variants are equipped with a single 12.7mm DShK machine gun and two PKT 7.62mm machineguns. These MGs are mounted forward of the personnel compartment, and require the gunners to be exposed while firing. Because of the size of the gunner's position, only two of the three MGs can be manned at any given time. The "PB" model is equipped with a small, one man, turret, mounted over the second axle that contains one KPV 14.5mm machine gun and one PKT 7.62mm machine gun.
In all models, the personnel compartment can only be accessed from the roof of the carrier. There are three infantry mounting steps on each side of the vehicle, mounted between the road wheels, and three additional mounting rails located on the hull above the steps. There is a large personnel compartment access hatch located on each side of the hull.
General Characteristics, BTR-60 Armored Personnel Carrier
Manufacturers:
Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia, and Poland.
Transmission:
2x manual
Engine:
2x 90hp V-8 gasoline
Length:
23.47 feet (7.22 meters)
Width:
9.17 feet (2.82 meters)
Height:
6.7 feet (2.06 meters)
Combat Weight:
10.1 tons
Cruising Range:
500 kilometers
Speed:
Maximum: 50mph ( 80kph)
Off-road: 38mph (60kph)
Fording:
Fully amphibious without preparation
Crew:
Two (driver, gunner-commander)
12 passengers
Armament:
Main:
One 12.7mm DShK HMG (BTR-60P)
One 14.5mm KPV HMG (BTR-60PB)
Secondary:
Two7.62mm PKT-T MG (BTR-60P)
One 7.62mm PKT-T MG (BTR-60PB)
Introduction Date:
1961
Variants:
BTR-60P: Initial production model. The BTR-60P was open topped and armed with a single 12.7mm DShK machine gun.
BTR-60PA: Modified "P" model. Incorporates overhead cover for the personnel compartment. Because of space restrictions in the gunner's hatch, no more than two of the weapons can be manned at any given time.
BTR-60PB: Most widely fielded varient. Has increased overhead protection for passengers and crew and incorporates the standard Warsaw Pact APC weapons turret. This one-man turret houses one KPV 14.5mm machine gun and one PKT 7.62mm machine gun.
BTR-60PBK: Command variant with additional communications equipment.
BTR-60 PU: Armored command vehicle (ACV) variant for battalion level. The "PU" is open-topped and can be identified by its canvas roof, additional communication equipment and lack of weapons turret. The "PU" also has an easily recognizable dipole antenna that runs nearly all around the top of the vehicle.
BTR-60 PU-12 and -12M: "U" and "PU" variants used by air defense controllers and configured for ground to air communication.
BTR-60 R-975: Forward Air Control Vehicle (FACV). A modified BTR-60PB with sighting optics and laser designator installed in the turret in place of the weapons. Can also be identified by the large portable generator mounted on the rear of the vehicle.
MTP-2: Armored recovery vehicle.
R-145BM: ACV used ad Brigade level. Has increased radio range and communications capabilities.
ACRV 1V18: Artillery command and reconnaissance vehicle. The 1V18 is a command and observation vehicle (COP) while the 1V19 variant serves as an artillery fire direction center (FDC).
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