Sunday, 13 May 2007

A modern RPG?


opswarfare finds it strange that there is no Western equivalent of the ubiquitous Russian rocket propelled grenade (RPG). The closest weapon similar to the RPG that one can think of is the Panzerfaust 3 series. However, that system is heavier, being designed for anti-tank applications. The closest Western system in the spirit of a multi-purpose manportable rocket, the M72 series, is a one-shot throwaway, instead of being reloadable like the RPG7 series. While there are a few new systems coming to the fore, they seem to be one-shot throwaway solutions. These include the MBT LAW, Panzerfaust 90, and Predator.

Tuesday, 27 February 2007

New troops given extra firepower in Afghanistan

TimesOnline
opswarfare feels that this news sort of justifies the strength of heavy combat forces over light forces. The official MOD announcement is here. List of reinforcements below.
  • 1st Battalion The Royal Welsh
  • 1st Battalion Scots Guards (Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicles)
  • 19th Regiment Royal Artillery
  • 5th Regiment Royal Artillery
  • 39th Regiment Royal Artillery (Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System)
  • four more Harrier GR9s to provide Close Air Support
  • 846 Naval Air Squadron (four Sea King helicopters)
  • another C-130 Hercules

Tuesday, 20 February 2007

国防预算案

大多数国人对2007年的预算案,最关住的或许就是从5%提高到7%的消费税。但有另一点直得大家多了解的,就是我们的国防开支。opswarfare 认为,除了需要探讨为何国防开支年年有增无减,更重要的是讨论国防开支的透明度。

Radiological dispersal event

Executive Overview: Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Defence
An extract of a Jane's article on the recent issues surrounding the usage of polonium-210 to kill Alexander Litvinenko, a Russian dissident staying in London. The BBC World Service has also done a 2 part radio documentary on this area. This incident highlights the possible use of the same substance to target larger groups, as a terrorist weapon.

Saturday, 17 February 2007

On patrol with the Marines in Afghanistan

International News | News | Telegraph

An intense account of Royal Marine operations in Afghanistan. 1 point does stand out. In a world of high-tech warfare, there are still occasions where a military force doesn't know its position precisely. Goes to show that there is still much to be done regarding the basics of warfare.

Wednesday, 14 February 2007

U.S. says "sophisticated weaponry" hit chopper in Iraq | Top News | Reuters.com

Reuters.com
What could this "sophisticated weaponry" be? Most likely some form of man-portable air defence system (MANPADS), perhaps a Russian Igla, or maybe some rogue US Stinger missiles?

Friday, 19 January 2007

Israel decides on Namer as future APC

Israel decides on Namer as future APC
Great to hear that the Namer APC will go into production. There currently exists a gap between MBTs and IFVs. Perhaps the even bigger story is that the Trophy APS will be installed on it, and the Merkava MBT...